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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

PARRAMATTA’S AFTER DARK ECONOMY GROWS

TRUSTED LOCAL NEWS

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SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK’S RECORD YEAR

DATA CENTRES MUST STRENGTHEN THE GRID

Ravi Ramjas from Star by Ravi.

FOUR artists and arts organisations from across Parramatta have been supported through two Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) rounds, announced this week. Through the reformed ACFP program, the Minns Labor Government is supporting creative organisations across every artform, enabling them to employ and develop artists and arts workers, foster long-term strategic partnerships and make lasting and impactful arts and cultural experiences accessible for all. Across NSW, an annual investment of more than $7,736,220 to organisations from annual applications and instead guarantees funding certainty for core operational funding for the next two years. See inside for details of the successful organisations.

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PARRAMATTA’S AFTER DARK ECONOMY GROWS SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK’S RECORD YEAR

Ravi Ramjas from

DATA CENTRES MUST STRENGTHEN THE GRID

Star by Ravi.

FOUR artists and arts organisations from across Parramatta have been support

ed through two Arts and Cultural Fundin g Program (ACFP) rounds, announced this week. Through the reforme d ACFP program, the Minns Labor Government is supporting creative isations across every organartform, enabling them to employ and develop artists and arts workers long-term strategi , foster c partnerships and make lasting and impactful arts and cultural experie nces sible for all. Across NSW, an annual investm accesmore than $7,736,2 ent of 20 to organisations from annual applications and instead guarantees funding certainty for core operational funding for the two years. See inside for details of the successfnext organisations. ul

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HE annual Riverston e Festival has once again brought the community together to celebrate the people, culture and local spirit that make Riverstone one of the fastest growing communities in North Western Sydney. Member for Riverstone Warren Kirby was joined by NSW Premier Chris Minns, Australian Atorney-General and Federal Member for Greenway Michelle Rowland, and Blacktown City Council Mayor Brad Buntng at this year’s festval, which showcased local businesses, community organisat ons, performances, exhibits and family actvites. More inside.

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Driver challenges hefty parking fine TONY BOSWORTH

MOTORIST fined $722 for allegedly parking in a disabled parking bay at Sydney Olympic Park (SOP) has questioned whether the space was clearly enough marked, saying drivers should be given a reasonable opportunity to recognise parking restrictions before being penalised. Robert Bicakcian received the infringement notice while attending the BusNSW exhibition at Sydney Olympic Park as an exhibitor and he has since decided to challenge the fine in court. He said he parked during the evening in what appeared to be an ordinary white-lined space on Cathy Freeman Avenue and did not realise it was reserved for Mobility Parking Scheme permit holders. “When I returned to my vehicle, I found that I had been issued a $722 penalty for stopping in a disabled parking area without displaying a permit,” Mr Bicakcian said. “What concerns me is not simply the fine. It is the way the parking space was presented to motorists.” Mr Bicakcian said photographs he took showed no wheelchair symbol painted within the bay, no blue line markings, no blue surface treatment or accessible parking wording on the roadway. There was also no accessible parking sign immediately beside the particular

The parking spot which Mr Bicakcian claims has unclear signage around use for Mobility Parking Scheme permit holders.

bay where his vehicle was parked, he said. “I fully support strong enforcement of accessible parking,” he said. “These spaces must be protected for people who genuinely need them, and I would never knowingly occupy one without a permit. “However, motorists should also be given a clear and reasonable opportunity to identify the restriction and comply with it.” But the NSW government, which runs SOP, said the parking row was marked with accessible parking signs at each end, including a sign near a pay station less than 10 metres from where Mr Bicakcian parked.

Sydney Olympic Park also has parking areas where permanent pavement markings are not used, and they say that’s because spaces and restrictions can change according to event and operational requirements. Parking restrictions are instead noted through nearby signs. But Mr Bicakcian argues, “if an accessible parking space is important enough to attract a $722 penalty, why is it not important enough to be unmistakably marked?” He has requested that the matter be heard in court after Revenue NSW reviewed and upheld the infringement notice. Mr Bicakcian has also asked for

photographs taken by the ticketing officer, particularly any image showing his vehicle together with signage or markings identifying the space as an accessible bay. “That is the central issue in dispute,” he said.“If the accessible parking designation was as clear and obvious as is now being suggested, the photographs taken at the time should demonstrate that clearly.” A spokesperson for the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure said the infringement had been correctly issued and subsequently reviewed. “The vehicle was issued an infringement for parking in a designated accessible parking bay without displaying a valid Mobility Parking Scheme permit on 15 July 2026,” the spokesperson said. “This matter has already been reviewed by Revenue NSW, which upheld the infringement. As the matter is now before the courts, it would not be appropriate for Sydney Olympic Park Authority to comment further.” Mr Bicakcian has also contacted the office of Parramatta MP Donna Davis - which has advised it will seek a response from Sydney Olympic Park Authority - and he has also been in touch with NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison and Premier Chris Minns. He said regardless of the outcome of his court challenge, he intends to continue to “raise the issue through social media and other appropriate channels”.

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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

Sydney Olympic Park’s record year

YDNEY Olympic Park has smashed its visitation record, welcoming 12.3 million visitors in 2025-26, up 2.5 per cent on the previous year and the highest attendance in the Park's history, including during the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The numbers tell a clear story: as Sydney grows, Sydneysiders are choosing Sydney Olympic Park more than ever, for major sport and entertainment, for its parklands and wetlands, for its cafes and restaurants, and for the simple pleasure of green open space close to home. It is proof that when governments invest in great public places, communities show up. More Sydneysiders and visitors than ever are discovering the Park's unique mix of green open space, major events, walking and cycling trails, wetlands, playgrounds, cafes and opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Sporting visitation surged by 310,000 people (up 18 per cent), driven by huge crowds for the AFC Women's Asian Cup and a bumper NRL season, including 16 matches attracting more than 30,000 patrons each, up from 10 the previous year. Parklands visitation also climbed, with an additional 60,000 visitors (up 2 per cent) enjoying Sydney Olympic Park's green spaces, wetlands, playgrounds and walking trails. With spring in the air, the Minns

Labor Government is encouraging families, visitors and locals to explore the Park's free outdoor experiences, including: Badu Mangrove Boardwalk: part of Sydney's largest remaining mangrove forest. Murama Healing Space: home to the Murama Dance Ground and Healing Circle. Brickpit Ring Walk: a 550-metre elevated loop overlooking habitat for

the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog, while learning about the history of this unique site. Extensive cycling and running trails: including the popular 5km parklands circuit. Picnic lawns, playgrounds and wetlands: featuring boardwalks, bird hides and viewing platforms, ideal for family outings. Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said: "These record

visitation figures show why the Minns Labor Government's continued investment in and activation of great public spaces matters. "Sydney Olympic Park is one of Australia's premier visitor destinations, offering a unique mix of major sport and entertainment, parklands, wetlands, walking and cycling trails, cafes and restaurants and free outdoor experiences for families and visitors. "As Sydney grows, places like Sydney Olympic Park will become even more important, vibrant, connected destinations that support healthy lifestyles, attract visitors, strengthen local economies and bring communities together." Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper said record visitation shows Sydney Olympic Park is one of Australia’s great sporting and entertainment destinations, and its appeal continues to grow. Sydney Olympic Park Authority Acting Chief Executive Officer, Chris Martin said: "What's particularly encouraging is that we're seeing growth across both major events and our parklands. "People increasingly see Sydney Olympic Park as more than an event destination. It's somewhere they can exercise, connect with nature, spend time with family and enjoy free outdoor experiences year-round. "With warmer weather on the way, there's never been a better time to discover everything the Park has to offer."

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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

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Funding support for local artists

OUR artists and arts organisations from across Parramatta have been supported through two Arts and Cultural Funding Program (ACFP) rounds, announced this week. Through the reformed ACFP program, the NSW Government is supporting creative organisations across every artform, enabling them

to employ and develop artists and arts workers, foster long-term strategic partnerships and make lasting and impactful arts and cultural experiences accessible for all. Across NSW, an annual investment of more than $7,736,220 to organisations from annual applications and instead guarantees funding certainty

New Ghosts Theatre Company Inc.

for core operational funding for the next two years. Successful applicants in the Parramatta Local Government Area have shared in $505,000 of the 2-year Arts and Cul-

State Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis MP said: “It’s great to see dedicated arts and cultural project funding supporting local artists and organisations here in Parramatta. “I am excited for the successful artists and already seen the benefits for local artists through the Nautanki; Theatre’s, Para Mela. “I am pleased to see the reformed Arts and Cultural Funding Program has resulted in funding being shared more equitably across a wider number of creative communities and artforms.” FORM Dance Projects Inc.

ture Funding Program include FORM Dance Projects Inc., Nautanki Theatre Inc., New Ghosts Theatre Company Inc., Writing and Society Research Centre, Western Sydney University. All applications funded were assessed and recommended against published criteria and ranked in order of merit and impact by the ten Artform Boards. For more information about the funding outcomes, visit create.nsw.gov.au

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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

Data centres must strengthen grid

ARRAMATTA MP and Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy Andrew Charlton says Australia’s rapidly expanding data-centre industry must be developed in a way that strengthens the electricity grid rather than leaving households to pay for its enormous power demands. Dr Charlton has argued that artificial intelligence will create substantial new electricity demand, bringing both economic opportunities and risks if data-centre growth outpaces new energy supply. The Federal Government has outlined a “triple lock” approach under which data centres would bring additional energy supply, contribute the costs of grid infrastructure required for their connection, and be flexible enough to reduce electricity demand when the system is under pressure. Dr Charlton said properly managed data centres could become significant supporters of renewable generation because their large, long-term electricity requirements can underpin investment in new wind, solar and battery projects. “If we get data centres supporting grid stability, if we get data centres supporting load management, and then we get more demand through a fixed cost system, that ultimately has the potential to put downward pressure on prices,” he said earlier this year. The issue has particular relevance to Western Sydney, already a major hub for data-centre investment. At an Energy Nation conference in September, Dr Charlton said Australia had an opportunity to establish rules before the sector expanded further, arguing that flexible data centres could shift computing activity away from periods of peak electricity demand or provide batteries and other support to the grid. He has also pointed to the ability of major technology companies to finance additional renewable generation. Amazon, for example, has contracted

almost one gigawatt of renewable capacity in Australia, including nine agreements announced in April covering another 430MW of wind, solar and batteries in NSW and Victoria. The Australian Energy Market Commission is now considering rule changes aimed at ensuring data centres and other large electricity users contribute appropriately towards network upgrades their con-

nections cause or accelerate. Dr Charlton said the challenge was not simply protecting the electricity network from the data-centre boom, but using the investment to expand generation and improve the efficiency of existing infrastructure. “Planned properly, data centres could strengthen our electricity system — making them an asset to our energy system, not a strain,” he said.

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Parramatta tops night-time destinations

ARRAMATTA has emerged as one of Australia’s leading after-dark destinations, climbing to third place nationally as Australians increasingly embrace dining, entertainment and activities at night. The Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2026 ranked Parramatta behind only Melbourne Inner and Sydney City and Inner South, improving from fourth position last year. With an Index score of 71.74, Parramatta finished ahead of Inner South West Sydney, South West Sydney, North Sydney and Hornsby, Blacktown, Brisbane Inner City, Inner West Sydney and Canberra. The result highlights the growing influence of Western Sydney on Australia’s night-time economy, with South West Sydney making one of the biggest moves in the national rankings, jumping eight places to fifth. Blacktown climbed from ninth to seventh. The research found Australians are going out at night 15 per cent more frequently than a year ago, averaging 80.2 nights out annually compared with 69.6 in 2025. The Index combines Visa spending insights with measures of vibrancy, urban governance, safety and accessibility. Cost-of-living pressures remain an issue, but the proportion of Australians identifying affordability as a barrier to going out fell from 66 per cent to 60 per cent. Concerns about safety also dropped significantly, from 45 per cent to 34 per cent. Festivals, night markets and community events are among the activities Australians most want to see added to their local night-time offerings. Visa Oceania Group Country Manager Alan Machet said after-dark activity provided an important window into changing consumer behaviour. “How consumers spend their nights reveals what’s changing beneath the surface, from the experiences

they value to the places they choose to spend their time,” Mr Machet said. Local businesses are also playing a major role in creating successful night-time precincts. The research found 84 per cent of Australians believe unique local businesses give an area its character, while the same proportion value having a mix of independent and locally owned businesses. Almost eight in 10 respondents said businesses staying open into the evening was important to a thriving night-time economy. The results suggest Parramatta’s expanding mix of restaurants, entertainment, events and local businesses is helping position Western Sydney as an increasingly significant player in Australia’s after-dark economy.

Public Notice

WITNESSES SOUGHT Witnesses sought to a motor vehicle accident occurring at approximately 6.50 am on 4 September 2024 on Silverwater Road, Silverwater, in the northbound lanes near the intersection of Giffard St. The accident involved a white Nissan Navara utility, registration BR71SK, and a grey Holden Captiva SUV, registration DD03MN. As a result of the collision the white Nissan Navara utility mounted the kerb before leaving the roadway and colliding with a metal boundary fence in between the EG Ampol Service Station at 154 Silverwater Road and then the brick front boundary fence to 156 Silverwater Road. Information is sought from any person who witnessed the accident or who may have observed an unidentiﬁed vehicle initially travelling in the lane to the right of the Holden Captiva which changed lanes immediately before the collision. Please contact Tanya Merwe at Hall & Wilcox Lawyers on (02) 8267 3263 or by email at Tanya.Merwe@hallandwilcox.com.au if you have any information.

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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

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Sydney Action Park opens FAZILA FARHAD

HE Board of Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc. was delighted to attend the opening of Sydney Action Park on 24th September (previously called Raging Waters) under its new management by the Eddy Group of Companies, the family-owned operators of Jamberoo Action Park, who have been creating memorable visitor experiences on the NSW South Coast for more than 45 years. From an exciting water show to exceptional cuisine showcased in the corporate event precinct, Sydney Action Park offers something for everyone, including families, corporate groups, celebrations, and special events.

Western Sydney University walk to support students The Board and members of Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc. proudly took part in the 4km #staythecorsewalk on 22nd September walking together with 400 students at Western Sydney University parramatta campus -joining students, staff, alumni, partners, and supporters in a shared commitment to helping students stay on track to complete their studies and achieve their ambitions. Our Chair, Fazila Farhad, is a proud Ambassador for the Friends of Western Sydney initiative and strongly believes that we have an important role to play in creating pathways for tomorrow's talent and Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc. backs this.

Another new hotel for Western Sydney Hilton has announced the signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Parramatta, a 100-room hotel set to open in late 2028, marking the brand's debut in Parramatta and further strengthening Hilton's growing Greater Sydney pipeline. Located at 34 Hassall Street and forming part of a major mixed-use development by Deicorp Group,

New direct connection, Western Sydney to FiJi takes off Another exciting airline has joined the growing network at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI),

with direct flights between Western Sydney and Nadi, Fiji now on sale. Tickets are now on sale for direct Fiji Airways flights between Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) and Nadi, Fiji, with services commencing from 19 March 2027. This new route marks another major milestone for Sydney's newest 24hour international gateway, offering: ✅ Three weekly services every Monday, Friday and Sunday. ✅ Direct access to one of Australia's favourite holiday destinations. ✅ Enhanced connectivity for Western Sydney's growing Fijian and Pacific Islander communities. ✅ Convenient late-night departures and early morning arrivals, maximizing both business and leisure travel opportunities. With more than 400,000 passengers travelling between NSW and Fiji last year, demand for improved connectivity continues to grow. This partnership between WSI and Fiji Airways strengthens people-to-people ties while creating new opportunities for tourism, business and

Western Sydney Tourism Awards - 16th October Excitement is building for the Western Sydney Tourism awards night with close to 400 of industry attending. When these awards were launched in 2024, our vision was simple: to recognise and celebrate the individuals, businesses, and experiences that bring Western Sydney to life. In just a few short years, these awards have become one of the most anticipated events on our calendar, in our third year, we celebrate a record number of nominations, with entries doubling from last year. That extraordinary growth is a reflection of the strength, confidence, and ambition of our industry. The awards finalists represent the very best of Western Sydney. We invite you to join us in celebrating the outstanding achievements of Western Sydney's tourism industry and to be part of the exciting future that lies ahead. More information: https://www.visitwesternsydney.com | Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2026 | Date: Friday,

16 October 2026 | Time: From 6:00 PM | Venue: Western Sydney Convention Centre (WSCC) 81 Mulgoa Road, Penrith NSW 2750 POWERHOUSE PARRAMATTA FESTIVAL: 7-29TH NOVEMBER: 23 days. 170+ programs. 5 exhibitions of epic scale. Local and international art-

ists, thinkers and innovators share new works and bold ideas across culture, science, technology, design, music, food and film. Fazila Farhad is Chair at Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW Inc. Visit: www.visitwesternsydney.com

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Pullman launches ultimate shopping event

ULLMAN Sydney Olympic Park is launching a new two-night shopping escape in partnership with DFO Homebush, giving shoppers the perfect excuse to turn a day of retail therapy into a weekend away. Designed for those who understand that a good shopping trip takes more than a few hours, the new package combines a two-night stay in an Executive Room, breakfast, Executive Lounge access, welcome drink, bottle of wine, valet parking, and a $100 DFO gift voucher to kickstart the shopping shenanigans, all just 20 minutes from Sydney's CBD and the airport. Pullman Sydney Olympic Park's new package is perfect for anyone in need of some retail therapy and is the ultimate way to level up plans to shop the sales, or to just shop until you drop. The combination of shopping, dining, and downtime takes the pressure out of planning a weekend away, and makes this package perfect for anyone in need of retail therapy and an easy escape, whether a Sydney local, or travellers looking for a different kind of Sydney stay. “We wanted to create a package that turns something people already love doing – shopping – into a genuine opportunity to escape, reconnect and enjoy a little luxury,” says Craig Kelmar, General Manager at Pullman Sydney Olympic Park. “The idea is to make the whole experience easy. You can shop, eat, relax and stay somewhere special without having to leave Sydney.” Located just moments from Pullman

Sydney Olympic Park, DFO Homebush is home to more than 100 outlet retailers across two levels, including international and Australian fashion, sports and lifestyle brands. It is easily accessible from the hotel by car or direct bus, or even by foot for those who enjoy a leisurely 20-minute walk, making it simple for guests to spend the day hunting for new-season finds, wardrobe staples and designer bargains before retreating to the hotel. The Stay, Sip & Shop package starts at $720 for two nights and includes: Two-night stay in an Executive Room | $100 DFO gift voucher \ Goodie bag filled with exclusive DFO retailer offers and gift | Welcome drink | Breakfast | Executive Lounge access | Bottle of wine | Valet parking. For an additional fee, the hotel's private driver can also be organised to shuttle guests to and from DFO, elevating shopping trips to absolute Elle Woods levels. Pullman Sydney Olympic Park offers the perfect weekend escape without leaving the city – or without the hustle of the CBD, if that's your preference. With on-site dining, a fully equipped fitness centre, and world-class outlet shopping around the corner, a weekend stay can be as busy or relaxed as guests choose. Visit: https://www.pullmansydneyolympicpark. com.au/special-offers/stay-sip-shop

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ISSUE 78 | October 2026

ATO stops accepting credit cards

HE Australian Taxation Office will stop accepting credit card payments from December 1, 2026, following the Reserve Bank’s review of merchant card payment costs and surcharging.The ATO says it is inappropriate for credit card merchant fees to be passed on to the community. Taxpayers using credit cards for payment plans will need to switch payment methods before their first instalment after November 30. The ATO is contacting affected taxpayers directly and says support remains available for people experiencing financial hardship.

Free legal for sexual assault survivors

NSW free legal service will help sexual assault victim-survivors across NSW understand their rights and navigate the justice system. The $1.74 million Sexual Assault Survivors’ Legal Service, delivered by Legal Aid NSW, offers advice on reporting to police, criminal proceedings, subpoenas and related matters. It also helps health professionals respond to requests for counselling and medical records that may be protected by law. The service forms part of a broader $6.2M government package to strengthen responses to sexual violence. Contact the service on (02) 9219 5888 or sasls@legalaid.nsw. gov.au.

Trust shapes home energy choices

RUST, safety and control are increasingly shaping how Australians embrace new household energy technologies, according to Monash University research. The Foresights for Future Australian Home Life report found cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, affordability and uncertainty are influencing attitudes towards home

First illegal e-bikes get crushed

HE first illegal e-bikes seized under new NSW laws have been crushed at a Blacktown wrecking yard. The 23 bikes were among 36 confiscated by NSW Police and Transport for NSW in a mid-September Northern Beaches operation, with return applications for 13 being assessed. They included a bike capable of over 90km/h seized from a 14-year-old. Compliant e-bikes must cut power assistance at 25km/h and be limited to 250 watts continuous power. Transport Minister John Graham said it was a graphic warning to riders to ensure their e-bikes were legal.

batteries, electric vehicles and smart energy systems. Researchers studied 42 households and surveyed more than 5,000 Australians. They identified six key factors — trust, control, safety, care, inclusivity and uncertainty — influencing technology adoption.

$200M boost for NSW bus drivers

HE NSW Government will invest $200M to improve pay and conditions for more than 8,000 bus drivers as it tackles ongoing driver shortages and service cancellations. Funding will be tied to wage increases negotiated between private operators and unions, along with improved parttime opportunities, training and workplace conditions. The Greater Sydney driver shortage has fallen from more than 500 to 168. Since taking office, the Government says it has added 5,910 bus services, ordered 1,089 new buses and introduced new Western Sydney routes, including connections to Western Sydney International Airport.

Stronger rules to sell parts to repairers

HE Insurance Council of Australia is calling for stronger Right to Repair laws requiring vehicle manufacturers to sell genuine parts to independent repairers on fair terms. The ICA says

mechanics can have the technical information needed to repair vehicles but still be prevented from completing work because manufacturers refuse to supply parts. CEO Andrew Hall said restricted access increased repair costs and delays and could result in otherwise repairable vehicles being written off, ultimately contributing to higher insurance premiums for Australian motorists.

Training mandatory for strata committees

SW strata committee members must complete free online training within three months of their appointment, under new rules from the NSW Government. The one-hour NSW Fair Trading course, delivered via Strata Hub, covers committee duties, repairs, finances, meetings, record keeping and dispute resolution. It is the first in a planned series, with more modules from 2027. Acting Fair Trading Minister Paul Scully said the training would give the 1.2 million NSW apartment residents greater confidence in those managing their buildings.

$4.3M for festival drug checking

HE NSW Government will invest $4.3M to continue drug checking services at up to 15 music festivals annually following a successful

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12-month trial. An independent University of Sydney evaluation found the service reduced drug-related risks and was associated with fewer urgent hospital presentations and ICU admissions. More than 1,800 festivalgoers used the trial, with about 1,500 samples tested. NSW Health will continue providing free, anonymous testing and harm-reduction advice. The Government stressed illicit drugs remain illegal and no level of use is safe.

Taxes top business concerns, says Opposition

AXES and government charges remain the top cost concern for NSW businesses for a second straight quarter, according to Business NSW’s September report. Confidence sits at -65.0, with nearly one in three businesses cutting staff and only 12 per cent hiring. The NSW Opposition has proposed raising the payroll tax threshold to $1.5M and cutting the rate to 4.75 per cent on the first $10M. Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said Labor must address high taxes amid record insolvencies.

Disaster rebuild costs outpace inflation

HE cost of rebuilding homes after extreme weather is rising faster than inflation, adding pressure to housing construction and insurance premiums. Insurance Council of Australia analysis shows building costs increased about 30 per cent in the five years to March 2026, compared with 24 per cent CPI growth. Roof tiles jumped 77 per cent, while windows, plaster, steel, cement and other materials recorded sharp increases. Between 2022 and 2026, insurers received more than 400,000 disaster-related home claims, costing $11.3 billion and further stretching construction capacity.

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Tax Debt Matters

www.parramattatimes.com.au

ISSUE 78 | October 2026

WHY PAYMENT PLANS FIX EVERYTHING

And the wrong one can wreck It MICHAEL MOON

PAYMENT plan is one of the most underrated tools in dealing with the ATO. Done properly, it solves almost the entire problem in one move. Done badly, it's the reason a manageable debt turns into a genuine crisis. The difference is never the plan itself. It's whether it was ever going to fit. Most businesses are offered a standard shape. A fixed monthly figure, over a fixed period, calculated off the debt rather than off the business. For some businesses that shape fits well enough. For a lot of others, it's a square peg being pushed into a round hole. The number looks reasonable on paper the day it's signed and stops looking reasonable the first month cash flow doesn't cooperate. That's not a failure of willingness. It's a mismatch between the shape of the plan and the actual shape of the business, its seasonality, its payment cycle, the lumpiness of when money actually lands versus when it goes out. Force that mismatch through anyway and the plan doesn't bend to fit. It breaks. Here's the part worth understanding properly. A plan that's actually shaped around the business, built against its real cash cycle rather than a generic template, can run for up to three years and hold the whole way. That's not a lesser outcome than clearing the debt fast. For most businesses, it's the better one.

It keeps the business compliant, keeps enforcement away, and keeps cash in the business doing what cash needs to do. Handled properly, the payment plan isn't a consolation prize. It's the panacea most businesses never realise they had access to. Shaping that fit is the specialist work, and it's worth being direct about that. It takes knowing what evidence the ATO needs to agree to a longer term, and knowing where a business's real cash cycle sits well enough to build a plan around it rather than around a template.

That's not a side task for someone whose training is compliance or general advice. It's a different discipline, done daily, against a target that keeps moving. The cost of getting the shape wrong has never been higher. A plan that doesn't fit tends to default, and a default isn't a neutral reset. The ATO's patience for a second attempt is measurably lower than for the first, and options open on day one are frequently gone by the time a business needs them again. Set against that, the cost of hav-

ing the plan shaped properly the first time is small. It doesn't come close. If your business already has an ATO payment plan, the question worth asking isn't whether you have one. It's whether it was shaped around your business or around a template. One of those is the hidden panacea. The other is just delaying the same problem, at a higher price, for later. Michael Moon is Director at Tax Assure, Australia's leading tax debt negotiation firm. Visit www.taxassure.com.au

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Travel

October 2026 | ISSUE 78 | www.parramattatimes.com.au | Edited by Emma Wilson | travelwellwithemma@gmail.com

INTERESTING THINGS PEOPLE ARE DOING

The William Inglis Hotel

EMMA WILSON, TRAVEL EDITOR

’M fascinated by people doing interesting things, and something that I love about Sydney is just how diverse the experiences and destinations on our doorstep can be. That was certainly the case when I found myself at the William Inglis Hotel for Saturday night’s Candlelight concert. Have you ever set foot inside the William Inglis Hotel? Neither had I and yet walking through its doors felt like being transported straight into the epicentre of Australia’s horse-racing world. And it was. The hotel sits within the 22-acre Riverside Stables precinct, home to the annual yearling sales and right beside Warwick Farm Racecourse. Before you even enter, you’re greeted by a statue of a horse with a trainer. Then the front doors, decorated with subtle horse motifs, open into the beautifully appointed William Inglis, a horse-themed MGallery hotel and part of the Accor group. I was so intrigued by this world that I stepped into, so I immediately called a close friend who knows this ‘horsey’ world inside out. I wanted to know what I had been missing and whether this fascinating little pocket of Sydney was as significant to the horse world as

it seemed. “Oh yes. I haven’t been there for a while, but it’s a lovely hotel and very well known. We really enjoy staying there when we do. Warwick Farm Racecourse next door has state-of-the-art facilities for the horse sales. They used to hold the sales in Randwick, but had to move further out because of space restrictions in the city. People love it there.” Do they? Well, that was enough to pique my curiosity. It’s certainly worth ducking in for a cocktail on the second floor or booking dinner, if only to discover this fascinating corner of Sydney for yourself. Every little detail has been thoughtfully considered, right down to the guest rooms, each individually named after a Group 1-winning horse sold through the Inglis family. The artwork is phenomenal, think striking blackand-white photographs of horses being hosed down in all their magnificent glory, radiating water droplets, alongside equestrian touches including horse-print carpet. We loved the convenience of being able to simply walk out of the Candlelight concert and head straight upstairs to our room. And if you’re at the hotel to simply unwind, the rooftop pool is a great spot to watch the orange sun slip away, preferably from one of the poolside cabanas. It would make a beautiful

wedding venue for those reasons, and is equally suited to a girls’ weekend, a romantic escape or a little Sydney getaway when you feel like discovering something completely different.

Why Western Sydney makes sense to bring more cultural events here Western Sydney is changing at extraordinary speed, as we know, with Western Sydney International Airport, Parramatta Light Rail, Sydney Metro

West and major cultural investment reshaping the region. Powerhouse Parramatta is due to open in November 2026, while plans progress for the redevelopment of Riverside Theatres. As Western Sydney builds cultural infrastructure to match its growing population, Candlelight feels very much at home in that story, taking an experience that could feel formal or exclusive and making it accessible through local venues, familiar music, beautiful surroundings and just an hour of your evening. The William Inglis Hotel is home to more than 26 unique event spaces, each with its own character and connection to our rich Inglis history. Across the precinct, we host everything from weddings and gala dinners to conferences, concerts, cultural events and horse sales. The Sales Arena, where the Candlelight Concert was held, is incredibly versatile and can accommodate up to 1,000 guests depending on the setup. In just one week, we saw it transform from an intimate Candlelight Concert illuminated by hundreds of candles to a completely different event with a boxing ring in the centre. Weddings are also a big part of the hotel, with spaces including the Rose Pavilion for beautiful garden ceremonies, the Sales Arena for large-scale celebrations and The Big Barn for a more intimate, rustic setting steeped in Inglis heritage”. Why not join the Pink October event , Melbourne Cup on Tuesday 3rd November or Christmas Day Lunch in the Newmarket Room. Visit: www.williaminglis.com.au

ISSUE 78 | October 2026

TraveL with Emma Wilson

www.parramattatimes.com.au

Castle Hill RSL's new steakhouse EMMA WILSON, TRAVEL EDITOR

LRIGHT, hear us out on this one, Castle Hill RSL is not exactly the first place you'd think about booking a proper steak dinner. But the new Steakhouse honestly changes that thought completely. We walked in and straight away the fit-out had us doing a double take. Slick, warm, a bit of polish without going full formal feel. The kind of spot where you could easily lose an afternoon over a long lunch, or scrub up a bit for a proper dinner date. The menu's all about the beef, as you'd hope from a steakhouse, with an Asado grill doing the heavy lifting. Cape Grim tenderloin, Macka's Black Angus striploin, Black Opal Wagyu and if you're feeling flush, there's a Robbins Island full-blood Wagyu tasting trio that'll set you up nicely for a big night. We kicked off with the seared scallops and the grilled jumbo prawns to share. Scallops were cooked spot on, served with cauliflower purée, pickled mushrooms, mushroom gremolata, salmoriglio. Prawns were the opposite vibe entirely, big chargrilled units with togarashi lime butter, pangrattato and fried capers. Proper finger-food energy, heaps of flavour, and a great foil to the more dainty scallops. Mains were the lamb rump and a whole butterflied baby barramundi, both shared. Lamb was chargrilled, paired with smoked carrot purée, potato gratin and garlic jus. We added mushroom sauce that proved an excellent pairing. The barra, though, was the showstopper. Whole fish, skin crisped up and charred, sitting with baby corn, green beans and a prawn bisque that you'll want to mop up with something. Extras included truffled crispy potatoes buried under Parmesan, plus the maroulosalata, cos lettuce, leek, shallot, dill, feta, lemon vinaigrette. That salad earned its keep, cutting through all the richer stuff nicely. I had a glass of the 2024 Giant Steps Pinot Noir out of the Yarra with the lamb and it was a great pairing. The wine list is worth a mention too- a broad Australian selection and the pricing was very reasonable. The food was excellent, but honestly the service might've pipped it. Our waiter and the young waitress looking after us were spot on throughout. Both were attentive without being up in your business every five minutes. That's a hard balance to strike

and they nailed it. Steve, the owner, came round for a chat too. Genuinely lovely bloke, clearly proud of the place and switched on to what his guests were after. This added a nice bit of warmth to the whole afternoon. Castle Hill RSL is clearly not mucking around here. Great looking decor, quality produce and a kitchen that knows what it's doing plus service to match. We went in expecting standard club fare but walked out thoroughly impressed. We'll be back.

Checho's Cronulla Mexican comes to Cronulla Cronulla's food scene just keeps getting better, and the latest joint to throw its hat in the ring brings a proper splash of Mexico, heaps of colour and a good dose of fun to the strip. Checho's is all modern Mexican vibes. Cocktails, sharing plates and a serious signature Tequila menu. Lucille and I hauled ourselves across town to check it out. We walked in and straight away the vibe was chilled and welcoming. Service was switchedon and friendly the whole night, and the menu didn't muck around either, no endless list to wade through. We kicked off with the Tuna Aguachile and

the Corn Ribs, plus a couple of cocktails that went down a treat with the fresh Mexican flavours. The Caipiroska was great.. vodka, brown sugar, lime, and really refreshing. Checho's spin on a Tommy's Margarita (blanco tequila, Cointreau, lime, guava, agave) also had that zesty citrus hit that just works with this kind of food. The Tuna Aguachile was generous slices of fresh tuna sitting in a ponzu dressing with jalapeño, pickled onion, tajín and lime. Bright, colourful, and a nice light way to get the night going. But honestly, the Corn Ribs stole the show early. Sweet, slightly charred corn smothered in manchego with chipotle crema and lime, and the pickled onion on the side cut through all that richness perfectly. Simple dish, executed well and devoured in minutes. Tacos are obviously the main event here, $10 a pop, so it's easy to just order a stack and share around. We went with the secret-spice fried chicken, soft-shell crab, mushroom and fish, and honestly there wasn't a dud among them – the crab and the fried chicken were the pick for us, but the mushroom held its own too, which says a lot for a veg option sitting alongside all that seafood and chicken. There's also slow-cooked beef brisket on the menu if you're after something heartier, and if you're rolling in hungry, there's bigger stuff on offer as well. There’s pork ribs, skewers, fried chicken, and Wagyu that all looked generous. Then there's the drinks menu, which had us properly entertained. The table next to us was served one of Checho's 2.3-litre Shared Cocktail Handbags - it's exactly what it sounds like. This massive handbag-shaped glass arrived. A memorable cocktail and of course the phones came out. Great bit of theatre. We finished up with the churros with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce on the side. Warm, crisp on the outside, and that caramel sauce had us scraping the plate clean. I wrapped up the night with a Patrón Reposado - cooked agave, a bit of black pepper and vanilla in there, smooth and warming, solid way to finish things off. That's Checho's in a nutshell really, doesn't take itself too seriously. Food's colourful and built for sharing, cocktails are a laugh, service is relaxed but, on the ball, and there's enough theatre going on to make it a proper night out. 1 Ocean Grove Ave, Cronulla. For bookings email cronulla@chechos.com.au

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puzzles WORD FILL ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

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

2 3 4

Picture cards, between 10s and queens Teenage Mutant — Turtles Common summer treat: fish and — Magpies are — and white

5 6 7 8

Book of family photographs Opposite of winner Chocolate cookies with creamy fillings Another name for mirror ball: — ball

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW... 1. In what does Cohen have an honour’s degree? A. Law B. History C. Psychiatry D. Accounting 2. What was his series about character Ali G called? A. Ali G Indahouse B. The 11 O’Clock Show C. Da Ali G Show D. Ali G, Aiii

SAChA BARON COheN 3. His character Brüno is a: A. Rapper B. Eco warrior C. TV presenter D. Fashion model 4. In which comedy did Cohen play a role? A. The Simpsons B. Eastbound and Down C. Curb Your Enthusiasm D. All of the above

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

0623 0502 0302

X QWD N H C T P Y K B O 15 2

Z G E U S J V F M I A R L 3

CODEWORD CODeWORD

ENTERTAINMENT WORDFILL CROSSWORD

9-LETTER WORD

qUIZ 1. Laughter 2. Blue 3. P.D. James 4. 24 5. Informal 6. Strawberry Kisses 7. Kings 8. Point Break 9. MTR 10. Midnight Sun

TODAY’S SOLUTIONS

deep, deepen, DEEPENING, deign, dine, edge, ending, engine, epee, geed, gene, genie, ginned, idee, need, needing, nine, peen, pend, pending, penned, pied, pine, pined, pinged, pinned

CROSS MATH

5x5

HIDDEN WORD

4x4 ACROSS: 1. Acts, 5. Floe, 6. Rare, 7. Owed. DOWN: 1. Afro, 2. Claw, 3. Tore, 4. Seed.

D D e D

H A F T S U S U A L M I N C e

10 LeTTeRS CLIENTELES CONTRABAND

S T

5x5

Paul Rudd’s superhero (3-3)No. 005 4 The Autopsy of Jane —(3) × who × plays Scott = 60 5 Actor Evil in the Austin Powers ÷ + + movies, – Green (4) + + = 18 6 Series in which Meghan × Markle – played– Rachel Zane (5) + acting+job (coll) = (3)15 7 An 9= Jane =Burnham = in American Beauty (5,5) 35 6 10 11 Director of Rushmore and The Darjeeling Limited, – Anderson (3) No. 004 14 Musical starring the Jets and the Sharks (4,4,5) Insert the missing letters 15 toDavid Schwimmer make 10 words – voices Melman the giraffe five reading across the in this (10) grid and five reading 17 down. Star of Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Jason – (5) 19 NOTe: 2004more war than movie starring one Billy Bob as solution mayThornton be possible Davy Crockett, The - (5) 24 Starred in Forrest Gump as the title character’s son, Haley Joel – (6)

8 LeTTeRS ATTITUDE ESCAPADE

OUTLASTS SCHEDULE

CROSS MATH

LITERAL SEEDIER TARRIES

show set in American wilderness (4,2,6) 13 2004 horror film (3) 16 Comedy starring Jim Insert each number from 1 to Carrey as a man who 9 in the shaded squares to can’t say no (3,3) solve all the horizontal and 18 vertical Star ofequations. Chopper (2000) (4) 20 Multiplication She walked into and Rick’s division ginperformed joint in Casablanca , are before – Bergman (6) addition and subtraction. 21 US comedy family including Keenen Ivory, Marlon and Damon (6) 22 Scarlett Johansson’s sci-fi thriller (4) 23 John Cho and Karl Penn Film series, – and Kumar (6) 25 Longest running Law and Order TV series (abbr.) (1,1,1) 27 Netflix series about Russian rulers (3,4,5) 31 US drama starring Australian-born Jesse Spencer (7,4) 33 Sylvester Stallone character (5)

URINE OPERA 34 Movie starring John PADDY Cusack andWANED Cate WROTE RENEW Blanchett, Pushing – (3) YELPS ROUSE 35 James Bond film starring SCRAP Pierce Brosnan (3,7,3) 6 LeTTeRS SENDS ETHNIC SIFTS DOWN TRENCH SLANG SOUTH 1 Restaurant “gotcha” LeTTeRS STEPSreality show7 (7,6) SURGE 2 2003 horrorCONNOTE starring ECLAIRS SWEAT Eliza Dushku (pictured), THEFT – Turn (5) EROSION

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

HIDDEN WORD Jacks, Ninja, chips, black, album, loser, Oreos, disco, (JACKAROO).

5 LeTTeRS ABETS ABODE ABOUT ABOVE ADORE ARENA ARSON BOSSY CAMEL COCOA CREEP DITTO EARTH EASED ENSUE FARCE 1 Comedy series FASTS starring Damon of 4 LeTTeRS HERDS AWES21-across (2,4,3,4) ICIER LEASE 6BLOTAbbreviation for the CULLScreen Actors LEERS Guild (1.1.1) MIAOW 8DIAL Adam – played DIMSBen in ParksNANAS and FANSRecreation (5) NASAL GNAT NEWTS 10 Political drama (3,4,4) LOLL NOISE 12 Discovery channel reality NETS ODOUR

26 Chris O’Dowd and Rosamund Pike comedy series, State of the – (5) 28 Will Ferrell’s Christmas comedy (3) 29 This English actor won an Emmy for The Night Of, Riz – (5) 30 Jennifer Lopez rom-com, – in Manhattan (4) 31 Director’s command (3) 32 McKellen, McShane or Ziering (3)

5 × 4 × 3 = 60 ÷ + + 1 + 8 + 9 = 18 × – – 7 + 6 + 2 = 15 = = = 35 6 10

ODES PEGS SEWN SHOE SOAP SOWS SWAY WARD WERE

No. 029

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

3 LeTTeRS ARE CAT COW CPA CUT DAB DEN DON EEL EGO END FRO GNP HIM HOT ILL IOU LSD OAR ORE OUR PER SON TOE TVS ACROSS WAR

CODEWORD

No. 003 038

WORD FIND Secret message: Northern warriors

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

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

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

qUICK CROSSWORD

FilM

ISSUE 78 | October 2026

www.parramattatimes.com.au

COYOTE VS ACME - REVIEW

Stop it, you’re crying over a cartoon Coyote JACOB RICHARDSON

OR years, Wile E. Coyote has been trying to catch and kill the Roadrunner with a series of gadgets from ACME. But when his rocket skates fail, he says enough is enough. He approaches local personal injury lawyer Kevin Avery (Will Forte) to take on ACME in court, going up against their formidable legal team led by Buddy Crane (John Cena). And while Avery might be initially reluctant to take up the case, as they unravel a deeper conspiracy, he finds himself drawn into the fight. Coyote Vs ACME is a movie that was never meant to see the light of day. Written off by Warner Bros as a tax write off, and subsequently rescued by another firm and finally released, the question was always going to be; was it worth the wait? The answer is a resounding yes. It’s a bonkers concept, played out with aplomb. Beautifully mixing the Looney Tunes vibes with the live action, and building a world that perfectly integrates all of the different canon characters without ever losing sight of its main story, it sucks you into an absurd tale. While the synopsis might read like a mix between a fever dream and an exceptionally dry legal procedural, the end product is neither. And that’s not to even begin to talk about the ending. The finale of this movie hits you so hard in the feels, you’ll feel like Wile E. Coyote having come acropper a large mountain after a malfunctioning ACME product. There’s a genuinely lovely message in here about

the chase; about what it means to have something to pursue, and someone to pursue it with. It’s a beautiful resolution to a movie that could have been about a Coyote finally eating a bird, but turns into something much more heartfelt. The live action cast are all perfectly serviceable here, and it’s nice to see Cena play a bit more of a villain. Forte is well cast, striking the blend between too funny and just funny enough well. But ultimately, this isn’t their show. The script is fantastic, but it’s the gags aping classic WB

cartoons, the love of the lore, and the love of these characters from director Dave Green that really shines through. And for a movie so belaboured by release dramas, it winds up both directly and indirectly proving that sometimes, the chase is worth it. Coyote Vs ACME winds up being one of the best movies of the year. A genuinely heartfelt film, that will entertain you from start to finish while also impressing you with its innovation. Worth seeking out for sure! FOUR STARS

S ES

L BUS I N A C

2026

ARDS

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