Parramatta Times - November 2023 by Community Broadcast Network (CBN)

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

GAZA–ISRAEL CONFLICT HITS HOME

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Defibrillators available in all Parramatta community centres

VITAL life-saving device in cases of stroke and cardiac arrest is to be installed in 19 community centres run by the Parramatta City Council. Councilors approved allocating more than $15,000 to purchase automated external defibrillators or AEDs for centres located around the city to save lives, mayor Pierre Esber said. The Heart

Foundation is spreading its message that first aid CPR and access to a defibrillator can significantly increase a person’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest. While waiting for paramedics, the Heart Foundation recommends using AEDs, which are easy to use, to help anyone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. More: page 8.

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ISSUE 43 | November 2023

CAST OF FABULOUS SHOWSTOPPERS

40 Schools Spectacular coming th

T is days away when selected students from Parramatta to the Hills perform their entries to the 40th Schools Spectacular at Qudos Bank Arena. They will join more than 5,000 students from across NSW coming together for a two-day massive dance shows on November 24-25. The dance routines to thrill audiences include ballet to tap, hip-hop to Bollywood and a showstopper: the entire cast performing the finale performance. Our local students are among only 149 students chosen after rigorous auditions of more than 900 students to perform as featured artists and dancers at the Schools Spectacular’s 40th anniversary show themed, ‘Fabulous’. “To be chosen to perform at this world-class event is not only testament to their talent, but also an opportunity for students to nurture their love for performing while working alongside some of the finest talents in the entertainment industry,” executive producer Richard Spiewak said. “The featured artists are some of our brightest stars and, alongside this year’s performers, they will put on a spectacular show that highlights the incredible talent within our public schools. “We’ve already seen a sneak peek of

their talent during the recent rehearsals, and I can guarantee that this year’s show is going to be fabulous.” The annual variety show will also include an 80-piece symphony orchestra, a stage band, 2,600-voice choir, 2,300 dancers, the D’Arts Ensemble for students with disability, the Aboriginal Dance Ensemble, featured dancers and specialist performers performing under the guidance of more than 600 teachers. The inaugural Schools Spectacular wowed its audiences 40 years ago, in The students performing at ‘Fabulous’ for the 40th Schools Spectacular at Qudos Bank Arena on 1983 at the opening of the Sydney EnterNovember 24-25, 2003. tainment Centre in Darling Harbour. The Schools Spectacular is supported by Our local students performing as featured artists and dancers include: Telstra, NSW Teachers • Kellyville High School - Kya Murray, Year 10 (Featured Dance). Federation, School Bytes, • Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School - Bianka Jakovljevic, Year 9 (Featured Artist). RØDE, Smartsalary, • Northmead Creative and Performing Arts High School - Ocean Lim, Year 10 (Featured Artist). Teachers Health, Colmed • The Ponds High School - Darcy Kelly, Year 10 (Featured Dance). Group, Steinway Austra• Wyndham College - Jenna Cross, Year 12 (Featured Dance). lia, Sony Australia and • Wyndham College - Aaliyah-jane Thomas, Year 12 (Featured Dance). event partners Qudos • Talent Development Project - Lilliana Davis, Davidson High School graduate (Featured Artist). Bank Arena, Seven Net• Castle Hill High School - Nicolle David, Year 10 (Featured Dance). work and Ticketek. • Castle Hill High School - Jude Leung, Year 10 (Featured Dance) . • Castle Hill High School - Lara McDermott, Year 10 (Featured Dance). • Pennant Hills High School - Miles Beard (Featured Instrumentalist) Tickets are on sale now • Riverside Girls High School - Mikayla Kelleher, Year 12 (Featured Dance) . through Ticketek by clicking • Riverside Girls High School - Charlotte Nagle, Year 10 (Featured Dance). https://premier.ticketek. • Ryde Secondary College - Alexandra Dennett, Year 11 (Featured Dance) . com.au/shows/show. • Ryde Secondary College - Nate Killiby, Year 11 (Featured Dance). aspx?sh=SCHOOLSS23

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ISSUE 43 November 2023 How to get The Times The Parramatta Times is available throughout the Parramatta LGA at 80 strategic locations. To find a location near you visit our website.

Digital edition Each edition of The Parramatta Times can be viewed and downloaded in digital format at our ISSUU platform: www.issuu/communitybroadcastnetwork

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

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GAZA–ISRAEL CONFLICT HITS HOME

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VITAL life-saving devic arrest is to be instal e in cases of stroke and cardiac Foundation is sprea led in 19 community ding its message that by the Parramatta centres run and access to a defib City Council. Coun first aid CPR allocating more than cilors approved rillator can signifi person’s chance of cantly increase a external defibrillato $15,000 to purchase automated surviving cardiac rs or AEDs for centre arrest. While waitin for paramedics, the the city to save lives, s g Heart Foundation mayor Pierre Esber located around AEDs recommends using , which are easy said. The Heart sudden cardiac arrestto use, to help anyone experiencin g . More: page 8.

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Housing kicks off in Parramatta.

Extra pay for childhood educators.

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ISSUE 43 | November 2023

EntertainmenT

Jane Franklin and the Rajah Quilt

5-6 December

Jane Franklin and the Rajah Quilt come to Parramatta Jane Franklin and the Rajah Quilt both broke stereotypes: Jane running a colony to assist convict women; the quilt showing convict women were no useless stain on society. Jane was the only Governor’s wife who helped convict womensetting up the first enquiry into their welfare leading to the removal of the slavery of Assignment. She built a new larger factory to replace the damp overcrowded Cascades and had instructors teach them skills for six months. She set up the first

state girls’ school with a “manly curriculum” and founded a university that would take women. Jane, the most travelled woman in the world was the first woman to come overland from Melbourne to Sydney in 1839 and visited our Parramatta Female Factory to the horror of Governor Gipps wife and humiliation of Gipps as she informed him his new solitary cells were illegal. For her desire to improve the lot of these women and all women through education she was publicly humiliated

as having “Improper interference,” in running the colony. In the new play by acclaimed playwright of Forgotten, Cate Whittaker, Jane’s sad journey home on the Rajah Boat with the equally unwanted Rajah Quilt is relived and her strange encounter with convict woman Betsy, who shows her how to sew the Quilt and its magic is astounding. (Riverside Theatre 5 and 6 December). Jane is played by the daughter of “Mollie and Brendan” from Country Practice, Maddy Withington.

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ISSUE 43 | November 2023

GAZA–ISRAEL CONFLICT HITS HOME

Support groups feel the heat ELIZABETH FRIAS

RISIS support for Lifeline in Western Sydney and the NSW Law Society have both expanded their 24/7 helplines for residents distressed by the conflict in the Gaza Strip. The helplines have been put on alert as distressed calls poured in following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. An estimated 4,000 calls came through the helplines – 13 11 14 for Lifeline – and SOS online for the NSW Law Society. This week, Lifeline has renewed its calls for crisis support volunteers as the crisis in the Gaza Strip escalated in the weeks that followed as thousands of people flee the besieged areas. A Lifeline spokesman confirmed “our crisis supporters have been taking calls

by people concerned about [the conflict in Gaza]. “We were able to take the calls we received but we certainly do need more volunteers. Volunteers are our lifeblood.” The NSW Law Society has issued a statement to express its support to members within the Israeli and Palestinian communities, and within their jurisdiction, who are impacted by the hostilities in the Middle East. “The Law Society of NSW is made up of solicitor members whose backgrounds span the globe, including within the Israeli and Palestinian communities. Our thoughts are particularly with members impacted by the present hostilities in the Middle East,” the statement said. “As a constituent member of the Law Council of Australia, the Law Society endorses its statement on the conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

“All solicitors in NSW, whether a member of the Law Society or not, are able to access the Solicitors Outreach Service [SOS] at any time, day or night. “Psychologists are available to provide crisis counselling, with solicitors able to access three free psychology counselling sessions a year.” The SOS is an existing service within the society assisting its members experiencing trauma, anxiety, bereavement and grief. The Lifeline Western Sydney centre is among 41 service centres run by the organisation across Australia responding to an estimated one million calls for help at anytime of the year. Those feeling overwhelmed by the Gaza Strip conflict, Lifeline urges you to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, chat to Lifeline online or access the Support Toolkit to

Lifeline crisis Support volunteer in the Western Sydney service centre.

self-manage what you’re going through at www.lifeline.org.au. To contact the confidential SOS helpline, phone 1800 592 296 or click https://www.lawsociety. com.au/sos

Housing plan kicks off in Parramatta ELIZABETH FRIAS

UNDREDS of families and single households in Parramatta are set to benefit in a landmark move by the Minns Labor government to address the state’s housing supply crisis.

Premier Chris Minns, accompanied by planning and public spaces minister Paul Scully, Parramatta MP Donna Davis and Parramatta Lorn Mayor Pierre Esber announced the state-led rezoning of the city at a conference with Housing Now! advocates at Rosehill on Thursday, October 26. Mr Minns said the city’s north pre-

cinct, which included a stretch of busy Church Street along the planned light rail route, has been earmarked for hundreds of housing units built close to public transport, jobs, schools, parks and amenities. “Suburbs like Parramatta already have the infrastructure and amenities to support more homes, that’s why we’re

putting our focus into Church Street North to secure more housing,” Mr Minns said. Housing in NSW, particularly in the Greater Sydney area has not kept up with the population growth and is one the biggest challenges for his government, Mr Minns said.

Supporting you to live life well Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) is a leading not-for-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for more than 50 years. If you’re aged 65 years and over, or Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander aged 55 years and over, why not enquire about how home support services could assist you. Our experienced care managers guide you through the services available and create a consistent individualised plan that helps you live life to the full at home. Our home care services include: • Meal Assistance • Transport • Social Support & Activities • Wellbeing • Allied Health Support

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Please note, the first step to access Government-funded Home Care services is to apply for an assessment. Call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422, or apply online at www.myagedcare.gov.au. If you are eligible you will then receive a referral code which will allow you to progress services with us.

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ISSUE 43 | November 2023

COUNCIL VOTES TO SUPPORT CARDIAC SURVIVAL

Defibrillators across our city

VITAL life-saving device in cases of stroke and cardiac arrest is to be installed in 19 community centres run by Parramatta City Council. Councilors approved allocating more than $15,000 to purchase automated external defibrillators or AEDs for community centres located around the city, Lord Mayor Pierre Esber said. The Heart Foundation is spreading its message across the country that first aid CPR and access to a defibrillator can significantly increase a person’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest. While waiting for paramedics, the Heart Foundation recommend AEDs, which are easy to use, to help anyone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. The defibrillator checks the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish rhythm. “This move will help save lives. Council is providing our community with the best safety and technology where appropriate and I know this decision will go a long way,” Cr Esber said. “Statistics show that around 28,000 Australians suffer sudden cardiac arrest each year and only 10 per cent survive. “Those statistics dramatically improve with the use of a defibrillator within the first five minutes of a cardiac arrest, with a more than 70 per cent survival rate. “Any member of the public can access these life saving devices when they need them at our local community facilities now and potentially save someone’s life.” Thirteen out of 19 of community centres have AEDs with six more to be installed before the year ends. Clr Esber said there have been no specific emergency incidents that have led to the expansion of AED installations in council facilities.

The Automated External Defibrillator or AED installed at Parramatta Council’s community centres for use by residents and visitors.

The new centres to be added “Council takes safety at all its centres seriously and we are proud to be taking action to ensure we support the community when it needs it the most,” Cr Esber said. Among the community centres to receive AEDs include: • Harry Todd Band Hall, Paramatta. • West Epping Community Centre, Epping.

An Active Parramatta Fitness Program for children and adults at Dundas Community Centre and Tai Chi class at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library.

• Parkview Meeting Room, Epping. • Don Moore Reserve Meeting Room,

North Rocks. • Dundas Park Meeting Room, Dun-

das Valley. • George Kendall Meeting Room, Ermington. The company Heart of the Nation has installed AEDs in council buildings since 2016. “With this current purchase of six AEDs, this increases the number of community-based AEDs to over 50. This is an incredible investment for the citizens of Parramatta,” executive manager Julie Hughes said. The foundation’s Heart Health general manager Bill Stavreski said anyone should not hesitate to use the AEDs designed user friendly, and users don’t necessarily need medical training to help save someone’s life. “The step-by-step recorded instructions will guide you, and even if it turns out the person is not having a cardiac arrest, using the AED will not hurt them,” Mr Stavreski said. “You should call 000 for an ambulance immediately if you think someone is in cardiac arrest. Check for a response and know if they are breathing. “If they aren’t, use an AED if one is available. If not, start CPR with chest compressions, you don’t need to use mouth-to-mouth if you are not comfortable,” Mr Stavreski said. About 25,000 Australians suffer cardiac arrest each year in Australia, and only five percent have chances of survival, the foundation said. To find out more about the work of the Heart Foundation, visit https://www.heartfoundation. org.au/.

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

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ISSUE 43 | November 2023

Extra pay for early childhood educator

CHAIN of early childhood education centres across Western Sydney run by the Catholic Church has raised the baseline wages of hundreds of its staff by up to 15 percent to keep and help them meet rising cost of living. As of July1 this year, the award wage for Level 1 staff in early childhood services is $23.11 per hour or $878 weekly fulltime with the highest $38.12 per hour for Level 6, the Fair Work Ombudsman website showed. But the not-for-profit Sydney Catholic Early Childhood Services chief executive Franceyn O’Connor said they have increased their staff’s wages at all levels from 10 to 15 percent as they classify them as essential workers with qualification in the sector. “Our staff are highly trained, we run highly skilled early education programs for our children that’s informed by the child, by their families and by the educator together,” Mrs O’Connor said. “Referring to our service as childcare does not provide the respect for the profession it requires. “We look at our staff as essential workers, who like the doctors, nurses and paramedics during the pandemic showed up to work every day to help people.” But the sector has been reeling from recurring staff shortage thus incentives such as extra “wellbeing” days, rostered

Sydney Catholic Early Childhood Services ceo Franceyn O’Connor.

days off, contributions to travel were added to their wages. “[Staff shortage in the sector] is very real, it’s a crisis in the sector, it’s hard to get staff at the moment so we want our employees to know they are valued,” Mrs O’Connor said. The not-for-profit early childhood education sector has been seeking for changes in early childhood education policies, according to Mrs O’Connor so that not-for-profit services such as SCECS are able to access government funding to go towards skilling and employing more staff.

The Albanese Labor government’s 2023-2024 federal budget has allocated $72.4M for the sector, of which $34.4M was allocated for the professional development of 75,000 workers.

Pursuing better staff training At least 6,000 currently employed staff in the sector have been allocated $33.1M to complete their studies, while an extra $4.8M was set aside to skill up an extra 2,000 workers for the next 12 months. Of the current 216,000 staff employed in early childhood education across the country, only 12 percent have bachelor’s

degree, according to the federal Department of Education. “We are continuously pursuing better quality training of staff in early childhood education for our children, that’s why we look after our staff across the board,” Mrs O’Connor said. Families with children enrolled at their centres experiencing financial difficulties are also provided with fee relief even as they receive childcare subsidies from the government, Mrs O’Connor said. “We offer fee relief not just in times of cost-of-living crisis as we have now, but we keep our fees as low as possible to make early childhood education accessible to every family that needs our services,” Mrs O’Connor said. Services Australia provides families earning as much as $530K a year up to 90 percent childcare subsidy calculated from the actual fee they pay for each child enrolled in early childhood education centre. The subsidy increases if families have more than one child enrolled at the same time.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Community Representatives for Local Planning Panel Council is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from eligible representatives from the local community to join Council’s Local Planning Panel (LPP). A LPP is a panel of chair, three independent expert members and a community representative who determine development applications and make recommendations on planning proposals submitted to local councils. LPPs are in place so that the process of assessment and determination of development applications of high value, corruption risk, sensitivity or strategic importance is transparent and accountable. Candidates should have knowledge of the local community, understand local concerns and be able to represent the interests of the community. Community representatives should have an understanding of the planning process and assessment issues (but are not expected to be experts). All applicants must commit to adhere to a code of conduct and operational procedures. Your role as an LPP member would be part-time for up to three years. Members will be remunerated for attending panel meetings in accordance with the rates set by the NSW Government. The City of Parramatta Council’s LPP currently meets once per month on the third Tuesday of the month. Please note the community representative position will be allocated on a rotating basis and you will not be required to attend every meeting.

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Application link: cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/about-parramatta/news/ on-exhibition/community-representatives-for-local-planning-panel

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Newsbytes

Reduced access to dental care

Test your password strength

HE NSW Government has introduced a Password Strength Tester tool to promote stronger password protection. This online tool checks if a password has been breached previously and estimates the time it would take for a hacker to crack it. Short, simple passwords are vulnerable, taking just seconds to break, while longer, more complex passwords can be virtually impenetrable. The tool assures anonymity, with no data collection. Users are encouraged to avoid saving passwords and use trusted password managers. Cybercrimes cost millions annually, and NSW residents can seek help from ID Support NSW if their identity is compromised. Online safety tips are available on the www.digital.nsw.gov.au. The Password Strength Tester is available at www. nsw.gov.au/id-support-nsw/passwords.

Cameras to enforce seatbelt compliance

OBILE phone detection cameras will start enforcing seatbelt compliance in a new safety push aimed at reducing needless deaths on NSW roads each year. The NSW

Government will add seatbelt compliance to the work of the existing mobile phone detection camera network after a public awareness campaign and a ninemonth period in which warning letters rather than fines will be issued. In the five years to 2022,

142 lives were lost on NSW roads in fatal crashes in which victims were travelling in a vehicle but not wearing a seatbelt. Despite five decades of enforcement and public awareness campaigns, more than 10,000 people a year are still fined for not wearing a seatbelt.

HE Australian Dental Association New South Wales (ADA NSW) is warning about the potential consequences of applying payroll tax to dental practices. With over 23,000 people on the public dental waitlist in regional NSW and a shortage of dentists, the ADA NSW is concerned that imposing payroll tax could lead to increased fees and reduced access to dental care. The Federal Australian Dental Association has called on state leaders to grant dentists the same payroll tax amnesty given to doctors. The ADA NSW estimates that up to 60% of dental practices could be affected, leading to retrospective tax penalties and uncertainty for practice operators.

Addressing overcrowded emergency units

HE NSW Government is addressing overcrowded emergency departments by creating Safe Assessment Units at Prince of Wales and Nepean hospitals. These units will support individuals with behavioral issues related to drugs and alcohol, providing a calm environment for assessment and treatment. A multidisci-

ISSUE 43 | November 2023 plinary team will handle patient care. This approach has been successful in improving patient outcomes, reducing sedation and restraint use, and shortening ED stays. The units are set to begin operation early next year, complementing St Vincent’s Hospital’s existing services, and will coordinate with the community health sector for post-discharge support.

Bendigo named top bank

ENDIGO Bank has been named Australia’s most trusted bank for the second consecutive year, according to the Roy Morgan Trusted Brand Awards. The bank’s CEO and Managing Director, Marnie Baker, expressed gratitude to their 2.4 million customers and attributed the recognition to the hard work of the bank’s people, their customer-centered approach, quality products, friendly service, and digital offerings. Bendigo Bank’s commitment to community prosperity and trust-building contributed to their back-to-back wins. The bank’s customer numbers increased by 10% over the year, and it was also recognized as the most trusted agribusiness bank among Australian farmers by Roy Morgan.

THE

WEST

FIXING THE NATIONWIDE SKILLS

Shortage in multiple industries SASWATI MUKHERJEE

F numbers are an indication, 54% Australians think that cheaper or free TAFE or University courses are the most effective way to solve the country’s skills shortage. A sizeable 22% believe it is also the quickest way to address the gap. The data comes from a recent survey of independent panel comprising 1012 Australians commissioned by immigration assistance and advice platform ‘Immigration to Australia’. The research aimed at finding out what Australians thought was the most effective way to address the current skills shortage in the country. The survey assumes importance given that Australian Bureau of Statistics reported a higher number of job vacancies this year and a persistent gap between the average number of qualified and suitable applicants. Job vacancies were 89.3% higher in May 2023 than in February 2020, pointing directly at a persistent labour shortage across many industries. The Australian government has responded by putting in place the delivery of 180,000 fee-free TAFE and vocational education courses running throughout the country this year. Respondents of the survey were given a choice of 14 solutions and asked to select the options they believed would be the most effective in resolving the crisis. While 50% respondents thought that government incentives, such as tax breaks for companies that hire and train apprentices and interns, 46% thought that partnerships between industries and educational institutions would be most effective in filling in this skills gap. When it came to the quickest way to solve the crisis, 22% participants tilted towards cheaper/free TAFE or university courses, followed closely at 12% who voted in favour of accepting a higher number of skilled migrants.

The survey indicated that a mere 7% were in favour of companies outsourcing work to offshore teams, thus demonstrating a strong desire for jobs to remain onshore in Australia. Only 10% participants felt an increase in AI and technology to replace human resources would be helpful in removing the skills shortage. This points at the fact that Australians are not keen to rely on automation and digitalisation as a solution to the problem. Interestingly, the survey found that respondents do not believe Australia’s current working age is to blame for the skills shortage. Only 10% felt younger

teenagers should be allowed to work and 13% were in favour of the other spectrum of further pushing the retirement age in the country. The survey found that 30 per cent of respondents thought expanding visa programs and opportunities could help Australia solve the skills shortage in the long term. The 2022-23 budget addressed critical skill shortages across Australia by increasing the cap on the number of places available to Working Holiday Makers, providing an additional 16,500 places to Afghan nationals under the Humanitarian program over a four-year period, increasing the Migration Program Skill Stream by more than 30,000 places

and moving to a demand-driven model for partner visa processing to provide greater flexibility in meeting the demand for partner visas.

State-wide breakup *52% people of NSW and 56% of Victorians voted for cheaper or free University or TAFE courses to address the impending skills shortage across sectors. *55% of Queenslanders, 62% West Australians and 63% South Australians are most in favour of increasing government incentives for companies to hire and train apprentices and interns. (Source: Immigration to Australia survey)

Local entertainment Watch locally made ﬁlms. Stay up to date on infrastructure. Watch proﬁles of regional leaders. www.sydwest.tv

Western Sydney Services for People from CALD Backgrounds We are incredibly lucky to live in one of the most diverse regions in Australia, with over half of our Western Sydney community born overseas. The diversity of our region is something we celebrate every day, yet it is often these community members who struggle to access the right health care to live full, happy lives.

So, which services in our region are making a real difference to culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities?

Source: WentWest Annual Review 22/23

STARTTS Building Community Resilience The NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS) helps people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds develop a sense of community and belonging to improve their wellbeing. Their dedicated team run group sessions such as art classes, yoga, English lessons, health workshops,

cultural days and outings to create a safe space for people to build trust, share their feelings and create a support network within the community. From running youth ambassador programs, to LGBTQIA+ support groups, to their Keeping in Contact (KiC) group for seniors, STARTTS run programs that welcome people from all backgrounds.

“This group has brought us together when we were living alone. We do different activities but really it is about getting to meet each other. This group has made us come together, to talk about the good and the bad. We were alone before but we have a community now. We belong.” - KiC member

Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

One Door Recovery and Reintegration One Door Mental Health provide recovery-focused programs to help people with complex mental health needs build meaningful, safe lives in the community. Over half of their team have lived experience of mental health themselves, so understand how to support people facing similar challenges.

In Western Sydney, One Door run the Bilingual Hospital to Home program to help people reintegrate back into community following time in hospital, the Commonwealth Psychosocial Support program for people with complex mental health and psychosocial needs, and Recovery College, which offers courses co-produced and co-facilitated by people with lived mental health experience.

“I’ve got great support from One Door Mental Health, especially the Bilingual Hospital to Home program. This program engaged me with different activities which enabled me to build my confidence and realise that I have many strengths that I can use in my recovery journey.” - One Door program participant

Other Services Available Dementia Care Navigator: supports people living with dementia, their families and carers, primarily from CALD communities. A specialist navigator acts as a key touchpoint, assisting with navigation through the health system for a person with a diagnosis of dementia or their families. Odyssey House NSW: offers CALD drug and alcohol services to individuals and their families. This includes individual counselling and group programs. Looking After Your Health - Diabetes NSW & ACT: aims to increase the awareness of risk factors for chronic conditions through a variety of education sessions and activities, delivered in languages other than English in Western Sydney.

How to access these services For a list of services available in Western Sydney visit WentWest’s Population Health webpage for more information.

TraveL

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

Diverse travel attractions of our New South Wales

EW South Wales (NSW) is a traveler’s paradise, boasting a rich tapestry of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and vibrant cities. From the iconic landmarks of Sydney to the serene beauty of the Blue Mountains, the attractions in this southeastern Australian state cater to a wide range of interests. Let’s embark on a journey through some of the most captivating travel attractions that make NSW a must-visit destination.

1. Sydney: The Harbour City The capital and largest city of NSW, Sydney, is an international metropolis renowned for its stunning Sydney Harbour, home to the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Visitors can explore the historic Rocks district, enjoy a day at the famous Bondi Beach, or wander through the Royal Botanic Garden. Darling Harbour offers entertainment and dining, while Taronga Zoo provides a glimpse of Australia’s unique wildlife.

2. The Blue Mountains: Natural Majesty Located just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a world of dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. The Three Sisters rock formation is a popular attraction, and the area offers numerous hiking trails, including the Grand Canyon Walk and Wentworth Falls. The Blue Mountains provide an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

3. Byron Bay: Bohemian Beach Bliss Nestled on the northern coast of NSW, Byron Bay is a haven for beach lovers, surfers, and free spirits. Its stunning beaches, such as Main Beach and Wategos Beach, are perfect for swimming and relaxation. The town itself is known for its laid-back atmosphere, lively markets, and a diverse range of cafes and restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.

4. Hunter Valley: A Wine Lover’s Paradise If you’re a wine enthusiast, the

NSW Central Coast.

Hunter Valley is a must-visit destination. Located a few hours from Sydney, this renowned wine region is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, offering tastings of world-class wines. You can also savor local produce at charming farm-to-table restaurants and explore the beautiful countryside.

5. The Snowy Mountains: Winter Wonderland In the southern part of NSW lies the Snowy Mountains, where you can embrace winter sports and mountain adventures. Perisher and Thredbo are the largest ski resorts in the region, and the summer months offer opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. The Snowy Mountains are a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Port Stephens: Coastal Delight Known for its striking beaches, sand dunes, and pristine waters, Port Stephens is a coastal gem. You can go dolphin watching, try sandboarding on the Stockton Sand Dunes, or simply relax on the beaches like Zenith Beach and Fingal Bay. The region’s

tranquil ambiance and aquatic activities make it an ideal family-friendly destination.

7. The South Coast: Coastal Charm The South Coast of NSW offers a tranquil and picturesque escape. You can explore charming seaside towns like Kiama, Berry, and Jervis Bay, renowned for its pure white sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy water sports, whale watching, and delectable seafood dining along this breathtaking coastline.

8. The Outback: Rugged Adventure For those seeking an outback adventure, the rural areas of western NSW offer a rugged landscape with red earth and unique wildlife. Visit places like Lightning Ridge, famous for its opal mining, or White Cliffs, known for its underground dwellings. The vast, open spaces of the outback provide a unique Australian experience.

9. The Central Coast: Beachside Bliss The Central Coast of NSW is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, including Terrigal and Avoca Beach. It’s

an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The region also features lush national parks and wildlife encounters, making it a perfect blend of coastal and natural attractions.

10. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Cultural Hub While not technically part of NSW, the Australian Capital Territory, with its capital city Canberra, is an integral part of the state’s cultural landscape. Canberra is home to world-class museums, galleries, and institutions, including the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and Parliament House. New South Wales is a treasure trove of diverse travel attractions, catering to a wide range of interests, from cosmopolitan city experiences to pristine natural wonders. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a beach lover, or a wine connoisseur, NSW offers an unforgettable journey through Australia’s captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. Plan your adventure and explore the wonders of this remarkable state.

Live a better life in Western Sydney Since 1985, SydWest Multicultural Services has supported diverse refugee and migrant communities across the Greater Western Sydney. We support people of all ages and cultures, with a focus on the vulnerable and most in need.

Specialising in the provision of culturally responsive care, we recognise culture and language is key to building community connections and empowering people to reach their full potential. From our youth and family services, including domestic violence support, settlement and housing support services, employment and training, to our home care and disability services, there is a program or service for every member of the family. • SydWest Home care for seniors • SydWest Disability services • Women and families • Employment and training

• Youth • Settlement services • Support with housing

Find out more about our programs and services that can support you or a family member call 9621 6633 Come and visit our SydWest Multicultural Services stall at the Wexpo to speak with our friendly team. Keep an eye out as we launch our rebrand with a vibrant new look!

AutO

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

TODAY’S CAR BUYERS DISTRUST DEALER FINANCE

Relationships can sweeten the deal TINA CLARK

OST-COVID has been a trying time for car dealers, as the ensuing car supply shortage resulted in extremely limited stock to sell, which has seen many dealers trying to make money in other ways, such as by increasing the costs of financing. Buying a car is usually an emotional experience, especially for consumers. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a shiny new car; you sit down with the finance person, and they make it all sound so easy - the payments are something you can afford, all you need to do is sign the paperwork and you can be driving your new car in next to no time. However, it’s when you get home and take a closer look at the paperwork, only to realise the rate you have been offered by the dealership is not that flash. At this point, buyer’s remorse usually sets in, but it doesn’t have to. The good news for SMEs is that they use their cars as tools of the trade – and while they can also get caught up in the heady emotions of buying a new car, they are more likely to shop around for a better deal. The best way to compare pricing is to get a quote from your dealer, and/or your finance professional and take the time to look over the overall costs of the quote and not just the interest rate. Some quotes are rate + fees and some quotes include all fees in the interest rate. It’s best to get this in writing and look at the details with someone you trust. Different types of agreements are available nowadays to fund a new car. The

type of agreement that’s the best fit for you depends on the type of business for which you’ll be using your new vehicle. Most businesses choose to finance under a chattel mortgage, as this option allows you to claim back GST, depreciation and interest (when the vehicle acquired is used for business purposes). A chattel can be done with or without a residual, and the value of the residual should be set at the value of what the car should realistically be worth at the end of the term of the loan. In recent years, we have seen residuals increasing, whereby dealers are offering

higher than Australian Tax Office guidelines for a car residual or offering a guaranteed future value (which is essentially the residual). his payment method can keep the monthly payments down BUT, there are boundaries around these agreements, such as how many kilometres per year you can travel. And one of the biggest headaches can be encountered should need you try to get out of the car purchase at any time during the contact. You could find yourself going backwards on the financing to the whole value of the car itself. By taking your emotions out of buying a car – wheth-

er it be for small business or your own personal car – you can get yourself a great finance deal. Now could be the right time to start building a relationship with a trusted finance professional who not only knows financing inside and out but also knows how to help your business expand its assets and position itself for growth.

About the research SMEs make up 96 per cent of Australia’s businesses and employ around 12.36 million people, making it imperative to the Australian economy that they have access to good financing

options to support their operations and growth. With commercial vehicles making up one in four cars sold this year, new research reveals that SMEs seek good-value vehicle financing and 56 per cent do not have confidence in loans offered by dealerships.The figures have been revealed in a new survey of an independent panel of 202 directors and decision-makers of SMEs commissioned by business loan comparison site Small Business Loans Australia. Tina Clark is Owner of Auscorp Finance Pty Ltd and Director of Laurentide Financial Services Pty Ltd. Visit www. laurentide.com.au

Local entertainment Watch locally made ﬁlms. Stay up to date on infrastructure. Watch proﬁles of regional leaders. www.sydwest.tv

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FitnesS

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

Fitness benefits of resistance training

HEN it comes to enhancing physical fitness, most individuals immediately think of cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming. While these activities undoubtedly contribute to a healthy lifestyle, there is another essential aspect of fitness that often gets overlooked: resistance training. Whether it’s lifting weights, using resistance bands, or performing bodyweight exercises, resistance training offers a wide array of fitness benefits that can transform your body and overall well-being.

1. Increased Muscle Mass and Strength Resistance training is a powerful tool for building lean muscle mass and strength. When you challenge your muscles with resistance, they adapt and grow in response. Over time, this results in increased muscle size and strength. Building lean muscle not only boosts your metabolism but also improves your physical performance in various activities

2. Improved Bone Health One lesser-known benefit of resistance training is its positive impact on bone health. Engaging in resistance exercises places

es that focus on functional movements can be particularly beneficial in improving daily life quality.

6. Boosted Endurance and Performance Resistance training isn’t just about bulking up; it’s also about enhancing endurance and performance. Many athletes and sports enthusiasts incorporate resistance exercises into their training routines to increase power, speed, and agility.

stress on your bones, which stimulates them to become denser and stronger. This is particularly crucial as you age, as it can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis and reduce the risk of fractures

3. Enhanced Metabolism Resistance training is a secret weapon for revving up your metabolism. Muscles are metabolically active tissues, meaning they burn calories even at rest. As you build more muscle through resistance training, your resting metabolic rate increases, leading to improved calorie burning. This can be especially advantageous for weight management and fat loss.

4. Better Body Composition Resistance training is a key component of achieving a desirable body composition. It allows you to reduce body fat while simultaneously increasing or maintaining lean muscle mass. As a result, your body takes on a more toned and defined appearance.

5. Enhanced Joint Health and Function Proper resistance training helps strengthen the muscles and connective tissues around your joints. This added support can alleviate joint pain and reduce the risk of injury. For individuals dealing with arthritis or other joint-related issues, resistance exercis-

7. Enhanced Functional Fitness Functional fitness is the ability to perform daily tasks efficiently and without injury. Resistance training helps improve functional fitness by targeting movements and muscle groups that are relevant to everyday life. Lifting, carrying, bending, and reaching become easier and safer with a stronger and more resilient body.

8. Mental and Emotional Well-being The benefits of resistance training extend beyond the physical realm. Regular exercise has been shown to have a profound impact on mental health and emotional well-being. When you engage

in resistance training, your body releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

9. Enhanced Longevity Numerous studies have linked resistance training to increased longevity. Maintaining muscle mass and bone density as you age can lead to a higher quality of life and a reduced risk of age-related health issues. Resistance training can also help counter the natural decline in muscle mass and strength that occurs with aging, allowing you to remain active and independent for longer.

10. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases Engaging in regular resistance training can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. It improves insulin sensitivity, regulates blood pressure, and promotes a healthy cardiovascular system. Furthermore, it can aid in the management and prevention of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

EntertainmenT

BECCY COLE AND DAVID CAMPBELL LIVE

Riverside hosts the big names

HE multi award-winning country music artist, years, with eleven Golden Guitars prized trophies Beccy Cole, is performing live at Riverside Theatres, from Country Music Awards of Australia to her name, along with special guests Raechel Whitchurch and including five for Female Artist of the Year, as well as Ricky Albeck in the latest Great Southern Nights multiple ARIA Top 10 Country and Top 40 Mainstream and Sure Thing Agency tour. albums, a Top 10 DVD, three gold-certified releases, and Music fans know her trademark hundred-watt more than a dozen number one Australian country smile and her unique brand of true entertainsingles. ment for over three decades in the country Beccy is one of the most successful singmusic industry. er-songwriters in the country, and a sought Beccy hails from South Australia and after live performer. has developed into one of the darlings in Catch her live at the show and join the the industry with her glowing warmth, audience in a fever pitch and quite often, husky tones, bawdy sense of humor and stomach clutching laughter. that trademark smile. It’s a Beccy Cole gig not to be As one of the nation’s best-loved missed. and most celebrated artists, her latest accolade is being voted the For more details, click https:// 2019 Female Artist of the Year riversideparramatta.com.au/ at the Australian Country whats-on/beccy-cole/ Music Awards, and her album, Air, the Album of Also known as the Year. Jimmy Barnes’ son She released who inherited his her 12th album, The famous father’s Great Country Songbook musical bloodlines, Volume 2, in 2017 with great David Campbell is mate and fellow popular counback at the Riverside try music star, Adam Harvey. Theatres with a new Last year, Beccy was inshow celebrating songs of ducted into the country musoul, swing and the 1960s. sic’s Roll of Renown at the 50th Good Lovin’ and More features David’s album in full, Golden Guitar awards and in a thundering collection of June, awarded the Medal?of classic ‘60’s blue eyed soul. the?Order?of?Australia for serTracks like 1, 2 3, Now vices to country music. Much-loved country music star, Beccy Cole and David Campbell at Riverside Theatres. That I’ve Found You, You’ve Her success built up over the

Lost That Loving Feeling, Devil In A Blue Dress and of course Good Lovin’ brought to the stage with David’s larrikin charm and incredible voice. David and his 7-piece band will also perform material from his multi-platinum “Swing Sessions” albums so expect classic Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jr and of course Sinatra tunes all night long. For David Campbell’s show, click https:// riversideparramatta. com.au/whats-on/ david-campbellgood-lovin-andmore/ The talented David Campbell is bringing hits in soul, swing and the 60s.

SporT

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

GIANTS STAR URGES FEMALE EMPOWERMENT

They don’t have to feel alone…..

Women’s rugby star Chloe Dalton who plays for Greater Western Sydney Giants. Photo courtesy by AFL Australia Michael Willson.

ELIZABETH FRIAS

OMEN in high performing sports like AFL’s Chloe Dalton of the GWS Giants are openly speaking up about prioritising their reproductive health despite fearing of being sidelined. The Olympic gold medallist in women’s rugby at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games and recipient of the Order of Australia Medal for service in sports, Ms Dalton revealed she suffered “crippling period pain” known as menorrhagia. Throughout her ordeal, Ms Dalton said she “remained silent out of fear” she would “not be taken seriously” in her sport rugby. Prior to playing for Carlton in the AFL Women in 2019, she gained prominence in basketball with Sydney Uni Flames. But Ms Dalton took a brave step and publicly open up about her own fertility concerns as she competes in high-performing sports at the recent Women’s Health Week. Ms Dalton joined a discussion panel of five experienced reproductive health experts concerned about the long-term impact of rigorous training

practices to meet the requirements in their sport. Ms Dalton, 30, is a qualified physiotherapist who graduated from the University of Sydney. She said she worked part-time as a physiotherapist in Melbourne while playing for Carlton. Ms Dalton said doctors diagnosed her with menorrhagia after she complained of “heavy menstrual bleeding” as she played competitive sports. Ms Dalton is Monash IVF Athlete Ambassador who will urge women in all sporting fields to speak up and seek help if concerned about health problems that could hinder their ability to bear children. “It was exciting to sit alongside a distinguished group of fertility experts to create a safe and supportive space to educate and empower other women so that they don’t have to feel alone,” Ms Dalton said. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to use my platform as a professional athlete to raise awareness of women’s health as an ambassador for Monash IVF,” Ms Dalton said. During the COVID pandemic, Ms Dalton founded the platform, The Female Athlete Project, for women in sports to talk about their career and achievements, as well as how they face

Dr Priya Sivadas of the Monash IVF in Australia.

challenges in a male-dominated field. Monash IVF fertility specialist Dr Priya Sivadas, who runs the clinic in Parramatta, said they partnered with the Australian Athletes Association “to empower athletes to give them the best chance of starting families when they are ready to.”

High impact performance The partnership meant Monash IVF would be able to assist athletes – both men and women - in AFL, cricket, football, basketball, netball, rugby league and hockey to consider in vitro fertilisation to have children. “While age and pre-existing conditions are two of the biggest factors impacting fertility in men and women, professional athletes can also face unique fertility challenges,” Dr Sivadas said. “This is due to the impact high-performance sports training and competition can have on their bodies,” Dr Sivadas said. Dr Sivadas said Monash IVF has been providing leading reproductive care for over 50 years in Australia, with more than 50,000 Australian babies born to date with their medical expertise. So called “test tube babies” has be-

come a medical phenomenon in Australia since 1980 when the first Australian baby, Candice Reed, was born through in vitro fertilization at the Royal Women’s Hospital. The world’s first IVF baby, Louise Brown, was born in the United Kingdom in 1973 while the United States had its first successful IVF baby when Elizabeth Jordan-Carr was born in 1981. The University of New South Wales has a team of medical researchers who have been documenting IVF babies in Australia and recorded 18, 594 were born through IVF in 2021 alone. The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has highlighted a 2019 medical paper by three University of Waikato doctorate students in New Zealand who found the impact of high-performance sports on women’s long term reproductive health. Dr Sivadas said they have a team of experienced fertility specialists, genetic counsellors, scientists, obstetricians, gynecologists, ultrasound technicians, donor and surrogacy experts and nursing teams who can provide support to women athletes choosing IVF to conceive. For more details about Monash IVF, visit https:// www.monashivfgroup.com.au/

puzzles QUICK CROSSWORD

QUIZ

No. 035

ACROSS 1 Schools (9) 6 Vote for (5) 9 Establish (3,2) 10 Ad (9) 11 Reject (5) 12 Listed in a hierarchy (6) 15 Attacker (9) 17 Discover (5) 18 Felony (5) 19 Provisional (9) 20 Resting (6) 23 Cars (5) 26 Bandit (9) 27 Earth in Latin (5) 28 Result (5) 29 Dangled (9)

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

13 Enlisted (10) 14 Comprehend (10) 16 Dogged (9) 17 Underwrite (9) 21 Subject (5) 22 Sporting sides (5) 24 Unemployed (4) 25 Purposes (4)

Aid (10) Benevolent (10) Dear (9) Major (9) Faint (5) Summon (5) Discharge (4) Aquarium (4)

3 8 1 7

Which element has the symbol Ru?

What is the primary vegetable ingredient in the Indian dish raita?

6 1 5 7 5 9

9 2

9 6 2 4

9-LETTER WORD

A E

I T

B R

V 28 words: Good 42 words: Very good 56 words: Excellent

2 4

And what five countries is it bounded by?

What kind of being is Totoro in the Hayao Miyazaki (pictured) film My Neighbour Totoro?

Ursine refers to what kind of animal?

What dressing consists of oil, egg yolk and vinegar or lemon juice?

In what European country did the cravat originate?

10 Which US actor and comedian was born Eric Marlon Bishop?

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Male deer (4) 2 Emblem (4) 3 Matured (4) 4 Go by (4)

HARD

6 4 4 1 9 5 9 4 8

1 Rebuke (4) 5 Roman garment (4) 6 Ripens (4) 7 Divine beings (4)

No. 035

MEDIUM

What is the official name of the Southern Cross constellation?

What is the largest inland body of water by area in the world?

4x4

SUDOKU

4 6 1 8 2 6

3 7 8 5

8 7 9 5

1 7 3 4

6 3

WORD FIND

No. 035

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

No. 035 Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. Secret message:

ALLIGATOR

CROCODILE

MONITOR

TORTOISE

BOA

DRAGON

PYTHON

TUATARA

CHAMELEON IGUANA

SNAKE

TURTLE

COPPERHEAD LIZARD

TIGER

VENOMOUS

puzzles WORD FILL ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

Solve all the clues and an eight-letter word will be spelled out.

1 2 3 4 5

Falls over Hilarious Trousers “Did you — any fish?” Opposite of shuts

6 7 8

Type of plane, — jet Birds build them out of twigs Blind, burrowing animals

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW... 1. Where was Armstrong born? A. London B. Melbourne C. Darwin D. Tokyo 2. In which series did she play Lynn ‘Wonky’ Warner? A. The Sullivans B. Police Rescue C. Ocean Girl D. Prisoner

9 NOTe: Playedmore Peeta Mellark than one in the Hunger films, solution may beGames possible Josh – (10) 11 British actor and rapper (pictured), star of Jason Bourne and Rogue One, – Ahmed (3)

KeRRy ARmStRONg 3. For which film did Armstrong win an AFI Award? A. Oyster Farmer B. Pawno C. One Perfect Day D. Lantana 4. For which series did she win a Logie Award? A. SeaChange B. The Wrong Girl C. Ocean Girl D. MDA

Puzzles AND and PAGINATION PagInatIon © PAGEMASTERS Pagemasters PTY Pty LTD. ltd. PuZZLES Pagemasters.com PAGEMASTERS.COM

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L X R I H V F B O K Z QW 15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

19 6

CODEWORD CODeWORD

21 8

22 9

23 10

24 11

25 12

26 13

ENTERTAINMENT WORDFILL CROSSWORD

9-LETTER WORD

tODAy’S SOLUtIONS

S D T M J Y C A P N U E G

CROSS MATH

5x5

HIDDEN WORD

qUIZ 1. Crux 2. Ruthenium 3. Cucumber 4. Caspian Sea 5. Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan 6. A forest spirit/keeper of the forest 7. Bears 8. Mayonnaise 9. Croatia 10. Jamie Foxx 4x4 ACROSS: 1. Slap, 5. Toga, 6. Ages, 7. Gods. DOWN: 1. Stag, 2. Logo, 3. Aged, 4. Pass.

U I C K N S e e S S A Y

e U S

Q U A

5x5

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TERMITE

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CROSS MATH

DOWN

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?

T W e e D

Dennis Hopper’s 1993 neo-noir thriller (3,4,4) 12 Sci-fi horror starring Laurence and1 to Insert eachFishburne number from Sam Neill (5,7) 9 in the shaded squares to 13, 21-across solve all theQuadruple horizontal and Gold Logie-winning vertical equations. entertainer (4,6) and division 16 Multiplication Late actress whose final film are performed before was Something Wicked in addition and subtraction. 2014, Brittany – (6) 18 Actress who plays Christine Everhart in Iron Man and Iron Man 2, Leslie – (4) 20 Actor who played Brother Baines in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X, – Hall (6) 21 See 13-across 22 Classic 1982 sci-fi starring Jeff Bridges as a computer programmer (4) 23 2013 British psychological horror film (2,4) 25, 26-down He plays Samwise Gamgee in the Lord of the Rings trilogy (4,5) 27 Actress of the horror films Before I Wake and The Domestics (4,8)

RESET VERDI 31 Actress and singer RINDS who has wonVIBES three SAMBA VISAS Grammys, four Golden SAUTE Globes, threeWARTY Emmys and SHANK two Tony Awards (5,6) SLICE 6 LeTTeRS 33 STALK1983 drama directed GAELIC by and starring Barbra Streisand (5) STEED NAILED 34 See 4-down ORMOLU STEWS TAMPA 35 Classic 1942 RESALE Barbara TELLSStanwyck drama (3,3,7) THULE TORUS

HIDDEN WORD Trips, funny, pants, catch, opens, jumbo, nests, moles (TYPHOONS)

5 LeTTeRS ABASH ADAMS ADAPT AIDER ALONE APART ASPIC BEIGE CARTS CURIA DALES DEEDS ENTER ERWIN ESTER EVENT FEMUR GALAS GRIMM HURST IRATE ACROSS IRENE 4 LeTTeRS 1ASKSActor from the LEVEL of the Apes LEVER DACEoriginal Planet DENYfilms (5,8) LISLE MIAMI Mr 6ERSEActor who portrays FARMWednesday inOVARY American PAPER GAPSGods, – McShane (3) PAYEE GEAR 8 Paul Haggis crime drama PLATO HERD starring Sandra Bullock and PRISM ITEM Don Cheadle (5) PSALM PYRE 10 and SACKNicolas Cage RAGES

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2 × 6 – 9 = 3 + + + 3 × 4 – 5 = 7 ÷ – × 1 + 7 – 8 = 0 = = = 5 3 49

STAN VATS WERE

No. 035

ANSWERS: 1B, 2D, 3D, 4A.

3 LeTTeRS ADA ASS ATE BIN DYE EGO ELI ELL ELM ERA ETA EVA FOR GEE HER HOI IBA IMF LOP OHM PLC TEL TIE YET

CODEWORD

No. 044

WORD FIND Secret message: Cold-blooded beings

5 1 8 7 2 6 4 3 9 9 7 2 3 4 1 5 8 6 3 4 6 8 9 5 7 1 2 2 5 9 4 6 3 8 7 1 6 3 1 2 8 7 9 4 5 4 8 7 1 5 9 2 6 3 8 9 4 6 1 2 3 5 7 1 2 3 5 7 8 6 9 4 7 6 5 9 3 4 1 2 8

5 9 4 6 3 2 8 7 1 3 7 8 1 5 9 6 2 4 1 6 2 7 8 4 5 9 3 6 4 7 5 9 8 1 3 2 8 1 3 4 2 7 9 5 6 2 5 9 3 6 1 7 4 8 4 8 1 9 7 3 2 6 5 7 3 5 2 1 6 4 8 9 9 2 6 8 4 5 3 1 7

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

qUICK CROSSWORD

ISSUE 43 | November 2023

LOCAL WIN AT PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

Commbank Stadium best caterer BY STAFF REPORTERS

ARRAMATTA’S CommBank Stadium took centre stage at the Restaurant & Catering 2023 Awards for Excellence, with in-house caterer VenuesLive handed the prestigious honour of Caterer of the Year in NSW. After a year hosting some of Sydney’s biggest sport and entertainment events, CommBank Stadium’s Catering team scooped the award pool at a glittering awards function at Le Montage in Lilyfield. On a night to remember, VenuesLive won three of the major catering awards at the 2023 Awards For Excellence including the overall Caterer of the Year title for outstanding service at CommBank Stadium. CommBank Stadium’s big sister in Western Sydney, Olympic venue Accor Stadium, also shared in the spoils as VenuesLive took out Events Caterer of the Year for over 200 guests. • Caterer Of The Year 2023: VenuesLive - CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; • Venue Caterer of the Year: VenuesLive – CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; • Events Caterer of the Year Sydney (over 200 guests): VenuesLive – Accor Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park. Chu Restaurant by China Doll at West HQ, Rooty Hill, took out Asian Restaurant of the Year at the NSW Restaurant and Catering Australia Awards for Excellence. The popular Western Sydney restaurant, which serves contemporary cuisine from China, Hong Kong, Japan and Southeast Asia, edged out rivals Chin Chin at Surry Hills, Ms. G’s at Potts Point and MuMu in Sydney CBD. VenuesLive Managing Director Daryl Kerry said his team felt “honored and privileged” to be providing catering services at Accor Stadium and CommBank Stadium

The VenuesLive team that took out three catering awards – including the prestigious Caterer of the Year title at the Restaurant & Catering 2023 Awards For Excellence.

on behalf of Venues NSW and to have received such glowing endorsement by the catering industry of Australia. “It is fantastic recognition for our catering team in NSW and a great reward for all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes at our major venues and events,” Mr Kerry said. “This is especially satisfying given our teams were responsible for delivering food and beverages to the highest level at FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 matches played at Accor Stadium in Sydney, along with our other many sport and entertainment events.” Mr Kerry paid special tribute to Group General Manager Food & Beverage Craig Menzies and General Manager Catering (NSW) Mark Adler, Executive Chef NSW Craig Veigel and the Meetings & Special Events team led by Dave Greselin who hosts the various events off the pitch, such as social, business, community and cultural events. Mr Kerry also acknowledged the great influence that Australian food icon and VenuesLive Culinary Ambassador Matt Moran AM has had on the quality of food on

SPORT SPORTSQUIZ QUIZ 1. Which sports brand did tennis star Roger Federer part ways with in 2018? 2. Where were the 2022 World Street Skateboarding championships held? 3. Which sport is Dave Bautista best known for?

4. In which year was Brooklyn Nets point guard Ben Simmons first drafted into the NBA?

13. With Josh Kelly and Stephen Coniglio as vice-captains, who is captain of the GWS Giants?

5. Which NBL team does American athlete Tahjere McCall play for?

14. Which Portland Trail Blazers player won the Three-Point Contest at the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend?

6. In 2023, Dyson Heppell stepped down as Essendon's skipper after how many seasons in the role?

8. True or false: bouldering is a sport at the Olympics? 9. Which WWE star was recently filming for Ricky Stanicky alongside Zac Efron in Melbourne? 10. Who is the AFLW captain of Carlton? 11. Which NRL team did inaugural Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich previously play for?

0303 November 2023

A full list of the award winners at the Restaurant & Catering 2023 Awards For Excellence can be found here: https://www.rca.asn.au/ sites/default/files/uploaded-content/website-content/2023_nsw_ afe_finalist_winners_list.pdf

0-10: Rookie 11-20: Off the bench 21-25: Rising star 26+ Most valuable player

7. What is the title of Netflix’s 2023 golf documentary?

Ben Simmons

offer at VenuesLive-catered venues in Western Sydney. “It has been a great honour to have someone of Matt’s standing in the industry work so closely with us over the past two years. He is a giant in the hospitality industry and a truly remarkable man,” Mr Kerry said. Western Sydney restaurateur Steve Anastasiou of China Doll Sydney opened Chu in 2019 as part of the $10m West HQ dining precinct, which sits alongside the Sydney Coliseum Theatre. West HQ chief executive Richard Errington said his team was thrilled to have received such an honor and said Chu had been committed to setting a high standard in the industry. “Chu Restaurant by China Doll is just one of the jewels in West HQ’s crown of dining and entertainment venues and is an integral part of our commitment and success in becoming a complete destination for the residents of Greater Sydney,” Mr Errington said.

12. The Women’s Premier League Twenty20 cricket league debuted in March 2023 in which country?

Dyson Heppell

15. The 2023 Cup Of Nations international women’s soccer tournament was held in which Australian state? 16. And the 2023 Cup Of Nations featured Australia and which three other national teams? 17. Jack Ginnivan last played for which AFL team? 18. Which Sudan-born middle-distance runner was named 2023 WA Young Australian Of The Year? 19. DK Metcalf, MVP of the 2023 NBA Celebrity All-Star Game, plays for which NFL team? 20. Which Philadelphia 76ers player won the Slam Dunk Contest at the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend?

21. Which Australian women’s cricket player went for more than half a million dollars at the inaugural Women’s Premier League draft? 22. At which Winter Olympics did Australia first compete? 23. A typical soccer ball has how many hexagons and pentagons? 24. The Essendon Football Club announced in January who as their vicecaptain, alongside Zach Merrett as captain? 25. In volleyball, how many points must a set be won by?

26. In which sport do competitors slide face down and head-first at speeds over 130km per hour? 27. When was the last time Arsenal won the Premier League title? 28. Out of his 61 bouts, how many did Muhammad Ali lose? 29. Melbourne United missed the NBL finals after which team beat the Sydney Kings by 12 points to jump ahead on the ladder? 30. A double eagle is a score of how many under par in golf?

1. Nike 2. United Arab Emirates 3. Wrestling 4. 2016 5. Cairns Taipans 6. Six 7. Full Swing 8. True 9. John Cena 10. Kerryn Peterson 11. Melbourne Storm 12. India 13. Toby Greene 14. Damian Lillard 15. New South Wales 16. Czech Republic, Jamaica and Spain 17. Collingwood 18. Peter Bol 19. Seattle Seahawks 20. Mac McClung 21. Ashleigh Gardner 22. 1936 Winter Olympics 23. 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons 24. Andrew McGrath 25. Two 26. Skeleton 27. 2003/2004 season 28. Five 29. Perth Wildcats 30. Four

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