THE NSW Government is powering ahead with the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium, reaching a major milestone with the installation of the first section of the eastern grandstand roof. The modern roof design will significantly enhance the
game-day experience. Once finished, more than half the seats in the eastern grandstand will be covered, nearly doubling the number of covered seats compared to the old grandstand. Two Western Sydney businesses are playing a central role in the roof installation.
Quality Rigging Services Australia (QRSA) is expertly rigging each of the four roof sections to prepare them for lifting, while Borgers Cranes is using a 600-tonne crane to lift the components into place, some weighing up to 70 tonnes. More inside.
WHAT do Margot Robbie, Zoe Saldaña and Jennifer Lawrence all have in common apart from being Hollywood stars? They were all born in the Year of the Horse – the Chinese zodiac sign galloping into 2026.
With the Lunar New Year set to begin on February 17, Professor Jing Han, Director of Western Sydney University’s Institute for Australian and Chinese Arts and Culture, delves into how the zodiac cycle works and what the year ahead may bring.
Professor Han explained that if you were born in 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, or will be born on or after February 17, 2026, you are or will be a Horse, the Chinese zodiac animal symbolising success, strength, stability, and elegance.
“People born in the Year of the Horse are known for their optimism, energy, perseverance, independent thinking, love of freedom, positive mindset, compassion, and charm,” said Professor Han.
“They are excellent communicators, able to engage others in conversation and brighten any atmosphere. Passionate about freedom, they strive to break away from restraints. Highly driven in life and career, they make
extraordinary efforts to achieve their goals. Horse people are ideal friends, valued for their candour, fairness, understanding, and empathy.”
Some notable Horses include Nelson Mandela, Malcolm Turnbull, Emma Watson, Barbra Streisand, Clint Eastwood, Neil Armstrong, Halle Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Martin Scorsese, Sinead O’Connor, Paul McCartney, Ang Lee and Jackie Chan.
Many East Asian and Southeast
Asian countries celebrate the Chinese zodiac which is a 12-year cycle of animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig, with this year a particularly special one.
“According to the Chinese Five Elements Theory, each year is assigned one of five elements—Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, or Earth—in addition to the zodiac animal. These elements add extra personality traits to the zodiac
signs,” said Professor Han.
“The year 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. Fire Horses are intelligent, charismatic, lively, and full of enthusiasm, but they can also be stubborn.”
A rare combination that only occurs once every 60 years, the year is likely to be an intense and brilliant one according to Professor Han.
“The Year of the Horse represents success, vitality, strength, good fortune, prosperity, and opportunities,” she said.
“In Chinese ancient history, horses are crucial in winning battles, which is why they symbolise the key to success and good fortune.”
The Lunar New Year is observed across many Asian nations and is becoming increasingly recognised worldwide, including in Australia.
“Previously known as Chinese New Year, the name of the celebration has been changed in Australia to better reflect our increasingly multicultural society and to include all communities who mark the occasion,” Professor Han said.
“The Sydney Lunar Festival has grown into one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside Asia and a major highlight of Sydney’s annual arts calendar.”
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THE NSW Government will ensure Anzac Day is appropriately commemorated in NSW, announcing an additional public holiday on the Monday following Anzac Day this year and in 2027.
Under the Public Holidays Act 2010, Anzac Day is fixed to 25 April each year regardless of the day on which it falls. In 2026, Anzac Day will fall on a Saturday, and in 2027 it will fall on a Sunday.
This will not change, however there will be an additional public holiday this year and in 2027.
April 25 will always remain the day of national commemoration. Dawn Services, marches and community ceremonies held on that day will continue to be the central focus of remembrance across NSW.
Anzac Day is not simply a date on the calendar it is a living tradition observed in towns, suburbs and cities right across our state.
Each year, thousands of families rise before dawn, gather at local memorials, march alongside veterans and reflect on the service and sacrifice that shaped our nation.
The additional holiday on Monday does not re-
place Anzac Day. Rather it reinforces its importance and significance as well as making it consistent with other major public holidays.
Unlike New Year’s Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, there are currently no additional public holiday arrangements in place in NSW when Anzac Day falls on a weekend, which occurs on average twice every
seven years.
NSW has fewer public holidays than all other mainland states and territories.
Prior to the addition of the Anzac Day holiday, NSW had 11 public holidays in 2026, compared with 15 in South Australia and the Northern Territory and 14 in Queensland, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory and on par with Tasmania’s 11 public holidays this year.
The experience of the additional public holidays will form part of a NSW Government review of the state’s public holidays to commence in 2027.
The review will be informed by community, business, veteran groups and other stakeholder feedback, as well as the economic and social impacts of the additional public holiday in 2026 and 2027.
The Premier said Anzac Day on 25 April is one of the most important and solemn days on our national calendar, and that will not change.
“We have a tremendous amount of reverence for Anzac Day across our communities, especially among our veterans and their families,” he said.
THE Property Council of Australia is calling for the north-south Luddenham Road corridor to be reclassified as a state road in the upcoming 2026-27 NSW State Budget, to prepare for future upgrades ahead of a coming wave of investment in the
Western Sydney Aerotropolis. Property Council Western Sydney Regional Director Ross Grove made the call ahead of the region’s flagship start-of-year property forum – the Property Council Western Sydney Outlook – taking place at Rosehill Racecourse. Mr Grove said
Luddenham Road is a key north–south spine through the Aerotropolis, connecting major State Significant Development sites and Celestino’s Sydney Science Park. With Western Sydney International Airport set to open this year and Bradfield City Centre gaining
momentum, the Property Council’s Western Sydney Outlook will focus on what it will take to move precincts into build mode, including clearer infrastructure sequencing, workable funding settings, and a pathway through today’s feasibility constraints.
PLANT enthusiasts are invited to grow their knowledge of invasive weeds at Western Sydney Weeds Authority’s (WSWA) 2026 Open Day, taking place on Saturday February 28 at 6 Walker Street, South Windsor.
The free community event runs from 10am-2pm and features hands-on activities, expert advice, a free BBQ and native plant giveaways. An exclusive weeds workshop led by WSWA’s professional staff will offer a behind-the-scenes look at how it protects Western Sydney’s landscapes.
Visitors can enjoy a free sausage sizzle and cold drinks, browse information stalls, explore weed displays and children’s Landcare activities, and access a free weed identification service to help tackle problem plants at home.
At 11am, a weeds workshop will provide practical guidance on identifying and managing priority weeds. WSWA will be demonstrating practical weed control techniques in person - perfect for home gardeners and anyone interested in supporting local biodiversity.
According to Chris Dewhurst, WSWA’s general manager, the open day marks the beginning of a new
chapter for the organisation, which recently rebranded from Hawkesbury River County Council.
“This open day is about engaging with the community and showing the important, often unseen work we do across Western Sydney,” Mr. Dewhurst said. “Our new name eliminates confusion and
reflects how we service multiple LGAs, focusing specifically on weed management.”
“We’re excited to celebrate this new era by inviting the community in, sharing knowledge and helping people feel more confident managing weeds in their own environments.”
WSWA’s open day will include a stall from the Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network (HNLN) with engaging, nature-based activities suitable for kids of all ages. Commercial agricultural supplier Ace Ohlsson will also showcase its tools and services to assist with weed control.
“This is a fantastic chance for people to get to know the WSWA team and learn how weeds impact our waterways, bushland and backyards. It also gives those who are interested in nature conservation the opportunity to get involved with their local Landcare group if they’re not already,” said Monique Bailey, HNLN’s Local Landcare Coordinator.
The Western Sydney Weeds Authority 2026 Open Day is free to attend, however registration is essential. Tickets can be secured at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/bilpin-environment-daytickets-1115066266219?aff=oddtdtcreator
APENDLE Hill man was left smiling ear to ear after initially thinking his Lucky Lotteries ticket had won him $200, only to discover it was actually worth a thrilling $200,000. The Western Sydney resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1768,
drawn Monday 16 February 2026. He looks forward to a neat $200,000. “You don’t know what this means to me,” he gasped when an official from The Lott revealed his total prize. “I initially thought I’d won $200 and then I noticed there were many more zeros. I couldn’t believe it. His winning entry of 10
random numbers was purchased on The Lott website – the official home of Australia’s lotteries. Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.66B via state lottery taxes and donations to help community initiatives, such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief and education.
CONSTRUCTION of a new Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit at Nepean Hospital is now complete, as the NSW Government works to improve access to mental healthcare across New South Wales.
The purpose-built unit, delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $700M Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program, will provide specialist mental healthcare to young people aged 12-17 years in the Penrith and Blue Mountains region.
The unit’s design is the result of thoughtful collaboration with young people, their families, and carers, ensuring the environment is able to provide the best care to meet their unique needs. It features:
• 10 single bedrooms with ensuites.
• Light-filled communal areas and secure outdoor courtyards.
• Specialized clinical spaces, including a sensory room and a media room.
• Learning and recreational spaces to help young people maintain their routine.
• A dedicated carer’s suite, recognizing the vital role families play in recovery.
The new unit is expected to be operational by mid-2026, with final preparations underway to ensure the facility and staff are equipped and ready
to support patient care.
The Minns Labor Government is investing in mental health services across the state to ensure that everyone in New South Wales has access to life-saving support.
Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said: “This is more than just new beds in a hospital – it is a dedicated recovery space for young people in
their most vulnerable moments. It’s so important to have a dedicated and supportive space for young people and their families to access specialised, age-appropriate mental health care that is tailored to their needs.
“The new Nepean Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit will bring care closer to home for people in the Nepean and Blue Mountains regions and will strengthen the network of youth focused mental health services for Western Sydney.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said she is grateful that families in Penrith and the Nepean Blue Mountains region will soon have access to specialist care close to home.
“Designed in collaboration with young people who know what a healing environment looks like, the Unit offers tailored spaces and programs that foster comfort, connection and recovery,” she said.
THE latest BHI data has revealed that one in 10 emergency patients are waiting more than 24 hours for a hospital bed in NSW, while half of all admitted patients are waiting at least nine hours for an emergency bed, says Shadow Minister for Health Sarah Mitchell. Only 30 per cent of
NSW patients needing a hospital bed spent fewer than six hours in emergency, falling well short of Labor’s 80% target. Western Sydney Hospitals are among the state’s worst with Blacktown reaching only 12.8%, Westmead at 13.9%, Fairfield at 20.8%, Liverpool at 22.8%, and Bankstown-Lidcombe with
28.3%, Ms Mitchel said. “Three years of Labor at a state and federal level has left our health system in this condition. Chris Minns based his entire election campaign on improving health services so he could get into government - well he has failed miserably, and that’s especially clear in Western Sydney.”
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THE NSW Government is powering ahead with the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium, reaching a major milestone with the installation of the first section of the eastern grandstand roof.
The modern roof design will significantly enhance the game-day experience. Once finished, more than half the seats in the eastern grandstand will be covered, nearly doubling the number of covered seats compared to the old grandstand.
Two Western Sydney businesses are playing a central role in the roof installation. Quality Rigging Services Australia (QRSA) is expertly rigging each of the four roof sections to prepare them for lifting, while Borgers Cranes is using a 600-tonne crane to lift the components into place, some weighing up to 70 tonnes.
In total, 172 prefabricated roof sheets each measuring 24 metres in length are being meticulously pre-assembled on the field of play to ensure precision and efficiency during installation.
Construction has progressed rapidly since the first structural members were installed late last year. All formed concrete seating plats on the eastern grandstand are now complete, while early works on the multi-level western grandstand are underway, including concrete poured for the player run-out area.
The Penrith Stadium redevelopment forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s historic multi-billion-dollar investment in Sydney’s
western suburbs. It reflects the government’s commitment to building better communities across Western Sydney by investing in the critical infrastructure and services needed in both fast-growing and established areas connecting local families with jobs, recreation and opportunity.
This project will generate around 500 jobs during construction, with more than 650 ongoing jobs supported once the stadium is operational.
The next phase of works will see the installation of steps on the eastern grandstand and the pre-assembly of the western grandstand roof.
Accessibility, safety, comfort and inclusivity are at the heart of the new stadium design, featuring triple the number of wheelchair-accessible seats, double the number of female bathrooms and changerooms, improved wayfinding, and upgraded security and technology.
For more information visit: www. penrithstadium.insw.com
Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said: “We are proud to be delivering this worldclass stadium upgrade that continues to take shape, right in the heart of the West.
“In a win for Western Sydney, this project is creating hundreds of jobs during construction and will support hundreds more ongoing roles once the stadium opens.
“The community is looking forward to returning to the stands for the 2027 NRL season and cheering on the Panthers in their world-class
stadium.”
Member for Penrith Karen McKeown said: “This milestone highlights the enormous progress being made to deliver this much needed stadium upgrade to celebrate the passion and pride of the Panthers supporters and deliver year-round community benefits.
“This redevelopment is a game changer for our community, not just for sport fans and concerts goers, but for local businesses, such as QRS and Borgers Cranes.”
FINANCIAL literacy is a vital but often overlooked life skill that shapes long-term decision-making. An RMIT expert says money education should begin in childhood using simple tools like pocket money and jars to teach saving and spending. Teenagers benefit from bank accounts, budgeting and understanding credit, while young adults should learn about superannuation and compound growth early. Financial education builds responsibility, confidence and stronger life choices, not just better money management.
THE NSW. Government has tightened overseas licence conversion rules to improve road safety and close long-standing loopholes. From 1 February 2026, drivers and riders aged 25 and over from additional “List B” countries must now pass both knowledge and driving tests to obtain a NSW licence. Under-25 rules remain unchanged. Service NSW is boosting testing capacity with hundreds of extra weekend slots, encouraging applicants to plan ahead and check online availability.
NSW health students in medicine, nursing, midwifery, dentistry, Aboriginal health and allied health can apply for up to
$12,000 through the NSW Government’s Tertiary Health Study Subsidies Program. Applications opened 28 January 2026, supporting up to 4,000 students. Subsidies provide $4,000 annually for three years, with $8,000 one-off payments for graduates who join NSW Health and commit to five years’ service. The $121.9M program aims to strengthen the future health workforce and assist with study-related costs.
NEW Monash University research has found that daily low-dose aspirin does not reduce overall cancer incidence in healthy adults aged 70 and over and may increase cancer-related mortality by about 15 per cent. The study followed more than 19,000 Australian and US
participants from the ASPREE trial and extension study over 8.6 years. While earlier research suggested cancer prevention benefits in middle age, findings indicate starting aspirin in older age is not recommended without medical advice.
THE Housing Industry Association is urging the Australian Government to rule out changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax in the upcoming tax review, warning that tax instability will reduce new home construction and worsen housing shortages. HIA argues housing is already heavily taxed and investors fund over 40 per cent of new builds. It says discouraging investment will cut supply, not prices, and calls for stable tax settings to support construction and improve longterm housing affordability.
NOAH and Charlotte are again NSW’s most popular baby names for 2025, topping preliminary rankings for the third time in four years. More than 82,000 births have been registered, with Oliver and Amelia remaining strong favourites, while Theodore, Hazel, Levi and Sienna rise in popularity. Classic names continue to dominate alongside emerging trends. Parents must register births within 60 days through Service NSW to establish a child’s legal identity and access government services.
THE Australian Medical Association opposes plans to let optometrists prescribe oral medicines, warning it risks patient safety due to limited medical training and
potential medication errors. The AMA argues expanding prescribing rights to address workforce shortages could fragment care and blur accountability for overall treatment. It supports collaborative, medically led models with tightly defined scopes instead. The association says prescribing oral drugs should remain the responsibility of fully trained medical practitioners to maintain healthcare quality and safety.
PALLIATIVE Care Australia has welcomed new AIHW data showing most Australians aged 65 and over first receive specialist palliative care only 12 days before death, far later than the recommended 90 days. The findings highlight missed opportunities for better symptom control, planning and family support, particularly for residents in aged care facilities who are least likely to access services. With Australia’s ageing population growing, PCA warns demand will rise and earlier, broader access to palliative care is urgently needed.
THE Australian Medical Association has welcomed a new public hospital funding agreement and an additional $25B in federal funding but warns it will not reverse declining hospital performance without deeper reform. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said extra funding is overdue yet unlikely to meet long-term cost targets or reduce surgery delays and ambulance ramping. The AMA is calling for clearer funding commitments, removal of growth caps, and implementation of expert reform recommendations to genuinely improve hospital capacity and patient outcomes.
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THE NSW Government has appointed a builder to deliver the additional beds and services to Blacktown Hospital in late 2026, a year ahead of schedule.
As part of the $120M investment to further upgrade Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals, the project will provide expanded and contemporary acute inpatient capacity with a total of 60 additional beds across both hospitals, relieving pressure and improving patient flow to support the hardworking hospital staff.
Bringing forward the delivery of these additional beds is part of the Government’s commitment to better meeting the healthcare needs of the growing western Sydney community, while working closely with the Commonwealth to address growing bed block caused by aged care and NDIS patients stuck in public hospitals across NSW.
Building contractor, Icon has been awarded the contract following a com-
petitive tender process and work is set to begin in the coming weeks. The 30 new beds will be added across existing wards within expansion zones at Blacktown Hospital.
Blacktown’s Emergency Department sees more than 64,000 patients each year, with emergency (triage category 2) patient presentations having doubled since 2015.
The bed expansion project at Blacktown Hospital will include new patient rooms, along with expanded clinical and non-clinical support service spaces.
Construction will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption, with hospital services remaining operational throughout the redevelopment.
A planning application was also lodged in late 2025 for additional beds
at Mount Druitt Hospital. This project will increase medical and surgical capacity.
The Government is investing in more staff, more hospitals and more beds with $1.3BB of additional funding in the 2025-26 budget to support the delivery of health facilities and services across Western Sydney.
The additional beds for Blacktown Hospital come at a time when NSW grapples with a sharp increase in the number of patients unable to be safely discharged because they are waiting to access a Commonwealth aged care or National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) placement.
At Blacktown Hospital, this number almost tripled in the year to October 2025, from 7 to 18 patients.
The NSW Government is working constructively with the Commonwealth Government to settle a new National Health Reform Agreement to help address these challenges.
BLACKTOWN City Council has launched DAISY, a new digital planning assistant designed to help residents better understand planning requirements and prepare residential development applications. DAISY, which stands for Development Application
Information System, is an artificial intelligence-powered tool available through Council’s website. It provides 24-hour access to general planning information and guidance to support people at the early stages of the development application process. More than 80 per cent of
development applications received by Council come from individual residents seeking to build a new home, renovate or extend an existing property, or subdivide for dual occupancy. DAISY is available now on Blacktown City Council’s website.
THE Fairfield City Local Business Awards is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.
Nominations for the 2026 Fairfield City Local Business Awards open on Monday, 9 February 2026 and will close on Tuesday, 10 March 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.
For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said the program presents the opportunity for /local businesses to be recognised for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.
“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”
Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show
appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Fairfield City.
“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who
are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe.
Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for
the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au. The Fairfield City Local Business Awards are made possible through the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: Fairfield City Council, NOVA Employment, Stockland Wetherill Park, and Doltone House Western Sydney, and Support Partners: Bonnyrigg Plaza, Cabramatta Plaza, Greenfield Park Shopping Village, White Key Marketing, and Bx Networking.
Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the Fairfield City community.
As our official Media Partner, Western Sydney Express will provide updates on the awards program and run a special finalist and winners feature.
For further information on the 2026 Fairfield City Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.?
SHEILA CABACUNGAN
AS we kick off 2026, I’m excited to bring Money Maven to the pages of Blacktown News. I’m Sheila, a Certified Financial Planner, business mentor, community radio broadcaster, raised, educated and thriving here in Sydney’s West.
Each month, I’ll share insights from the Money Maven podcast along with practical steps to help you build confidence in your finances, business and everyday decisions. January’s episodes set a powerful tone for the year ahead: a year driven by intention, identity and small, sustainable actions that make a real difference.
Our theme of the month was simple: Intentions beat resolutions.
Resolutions often crumble by mid-January because they depend on sheer willpower. Intentions, on the other hand, align your decisions with who you want to become.
I invite you to explore the Future-You Concept - the calmer, more confident and financially secure version of yourself.
When you make decisions from that identity rather than pressure or guilt, follow-through becomes easier
and far more empowering. Research consistently shows that women, in particular, build stronger financial confidence when their goals connect to identity rather than obligation.
We also explored the Four Quadrants of Life: Self, Others, Material and Legacy.
This framework helps you understand where your energy is being spent — and where it’s needed most. Many people across Sydney’s West, especially women, find themselves over-committed in the Others quadrant
Find a local business that comes to you in person or remotely. From dentists to your door, removalists, trades, telehealth, food and more
while under-investing in their own wellbeing, income potential or financial foundations.
This year, I’m encouraging you to rebalance by strengthening the Self and Material quadrants. When you look after your health, learning, work and money systems, your confidence grows quickly.
Would you consider doing a 30-Day Experiment? A simple way to build habits without overwhelm. You choose one tiny daily action and stick with it for 30 days. It might be a $5 daily transfer into savings, a quick nightly money check-in, or simply noting what you spent that day.
These micro-habits build financial awareness and momentum - two ingredients that matter far more than motivation.
We also unpacked the importance of rest, not just sleep, but the seven types of rest: physical, mental, sensory, emotional, social, creative and spiritual. True rest recharges and restores you, helps you make clearer financial decisions and reduces reactive spending. When you feel restored, you make choices from intention rather than exhaustion.
As we step into February, I want to offer you three simple Money Maven challenges:
1. Track your spending for the next 28 days — awareness creates clarity.
2. Automate a small daily savings transfer — even $5 builds discipline and identity.
3. Choose one quadrant of your life and run your own 30-Day Experiment. You can also catch up on the first four episodes of the Money Maven Podcast and invest in your financial capability. Each episode includes a curated playlist designed to keep you emotionally connected to the conversation — because money decisions come from both the head and the heart.
Tune in every Sunday night at 6pm on SWR 99.9 FM and connect with me on Facebook and LinkedIn for links, tools and the latest Money Maven episodes. Future-You will thank you for every small step you take.
Sheila Cabacungan is the Principle Financial Planner and owner of Wealth Forum. She is a qualified CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® under the Financial Advice Association of Australia, she is a Self-Managed Super Fund Specialist Adviser under the SMSF Association and she is a Registered Tax (Financial Services) Agent, with over 20 years of experience in helping clients build, protect and manage their money. Visit: www.wealthforum.com.au
THE Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.
Nominations for the 2026 Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards open on Monday, 23 February 2026 and will close on Tuesday, 24 March 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Wednesday, 27 May 2026. For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said
the program presents the opportunity for local businesses to be recognised for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.
“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”
Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Canterbury Bankstown.
“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who
are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe.
Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au
The Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards are made possible through the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: Canterbury Bankstown Council, NOVA Employment, and Bankstown Central, and Support Partners: Campsie Centre, Bass Hill Plaza, White Key Marketing, and Revesby Workers Club.
Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the Canterbury Bankstown community.
As the official Media Partner, Western Sydney Express will provide updates on the awards program and run a special finalists and winners features.
For further information on the 2026 Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au or click on the QR code in the advertisements that follow to link direct to the business voting page. Images from last year’s gala event.
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THE Inner West Local Business Awards is back, and it’s almost time for you to nominate your favourite business.
Nominations for the 2026 Inner West Local Business Awards open on Monday, March 2, 2026 and will close on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 with the winners announced at the Awards Presentation Evening, on Monday, June 21, 026.
For over four decades, the awards have shared success stories, inspired businesspeople, and united the local community. Precedent Productions Managing Director and founder of the Local Business Awards, Steve Loe said the program presents the opportunity for local businesses to be recognised
for their hard work and celebrate their achievements.
“Many businesses have expressed over the years just how much it means to them to be nominated for an award and recognised for their efforts.”
Mr Loe encourages everyone in the community to cast their vote and show appreciation for the outstanding goods and services providers of Inner West.
“Nominating someone for their outstanding service or products is a great way to thank these people, who are the backbone of our community”, said Mr Loe.
Businessowners, now is the time to get involved – to register your business or update your profile for the awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au
The Inner West Local Business Awards are made possible through the ongoing support of our Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: Inner West Council, City of Canada Bay Council, NOVA Employment, Ashfield Mall, and Big Clean, and Support Partners: Strathfield Council, Bx Networking, and 2RDJ FM.
Mr Loe extends his thanks to the Awards Partners for their support and commitment to celebrating the achievements of local businesses in the Inner West community.
As our official Media Partner, Western Sydney Express will provide updates on the awards program and run a special finalists and winners feature.
For further information on the 2026 Inner West Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au
– You can also register your vote by visiting the QR code in the businesses advertisements on the following pages.
At Continuous, we collaborate with industry professionals to create compelling visual stories. We capture the detail, form and atmosphere of beautifully designed spaces and places. Continuous Creative Pty Ltd T/A Continuous Creative Suburb: Concord, Inner West
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The Italian Bowl is an Italian Restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine with affordable pricing. The menu allows you to pick and choose your pasta shape and your sauce, aswell, as your protein choice and sauce choice and has a range of rissottos. We serve a number of sides and desserts. Orders are cooked at time of ordering and in an open kitchen with the freshest ingredients.
The Restaurant is a fun, loud and friendly ambience. We enjoy seeing meals completely finished and sauces licked off plates.
THE time has come to show your appreciation for local businesses in the Sydney Hills community.
The people who kickstart your day with a smile and a coffee, the people who offer a listening ear while they do your hair and nails, the people you call when your car needs servicing or your script needs filling, and the places that offer your favourite dine-in and take-out options.
Now is your chance to recognise your favourite business, thank them for their services, and give back to your community.
Nominations for the 2026 Sydney Hills Local Business Awards opened on Monday, 2 February 2026 and close on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, with winners being announced at a prestigious awards ceremony on Wednesday, 6 May 2026.
From the hundreds of nominations already received, it is clear that businesses in Sydney Hills have many loyal and happy customers who appreciate their efforts.
Managing Director of Precedent Productions and Awards Founder Steve Loe said, “the Sydney Hills community is always an enthusiastic supporter of the awards, which shows not only the high calibre of the businesses
in this area, but the strong community spirit of those who live and work in Sydney Hills.”
Mr Loe would like to thank the Sydney Hills Awards Partners whose ongoing support makes this program possible; Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: The Hills Shire Council and NOVA Employment, and Support Partners: Rouse Hill Town Centre, Winston Hills Mall, Grove Square - The Hills, Bx Networking, White Key Marketing, Sydney Hills Business Chamber and Castle Hill RSL.
He also thanked the Sydney Hills Media Partner, Western Sydney Express who will provide weekly updates on the awards program and run a special finalists feature and winners features.
Mr Loe encourages anyone who hasn’t already nominated a business, to jump online, search for your favourite business or a business you feel deserves recognition and place your vote.
To vote for your favourite business, or for further information on the 2026 Sydney Hills Local Business Awards, head to www.thebusinessawards.com.au or click on the QR code in the advertisements that follow to link direct to the business voting page.
At the table, guests are treated to the dishes Hurricane’s is famous for, from fall-o -the-bone ribs and perfectly cooked steaks, generously basted in our signature sauce, to a considered menu of chicken, fresh seafood and vibrant salads. There is truly something to suit every taste.
With a commitment to quality and freshness at the core of everything we do, we pride ourselves on delivering consistently great food and genuine hospitality to both long-time fans and rst-time guests. A meal at Hurricane’s Grill Castle Hill is one that delivers on avour, comfort and experience.
The Castle Hill venue also OFFERS AN INTIMATE SETTING FOR FUNCTIONS AND CELEBRATIONS , accommodating groups of up to 40 guests in our private dining room.
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The experiences a child has in the first year lay the foundations for their future. Our classes teach you how to provide activities that help children learn about themselves and the world around them, thus supporting optimal brain development in preparation for future learning.
SYDNEY’S iconic new fish market has welcomed more than 230,000 people and traded more than 160 tonnes of seafood through its world-class auction, trading and retail facilities in its first week of operating.
Delivered by the NSW Government, the new Sydney Fish Market is already on track to become one of Australia’s most visited destinations with hundreds of thousands of people visiting since opening last Monday.
The new Sydney Fish Market is expected to welcome over six million visitors a year and deliver a major boost to Sydney’s tourism economy and jobs sector.
As the state's newest landmark and a striking new icon on Sydney Harbour, it is on track to receive global recognition on par with the Sydney Opera House.
This must-see waterfront experience will further secure Sydney’s reputation as a global food and tourism destination.
Seafood lovers, industry and the broader community are now enjoying double the retail space of the old fish market, with the spectacular new building offering 40 food and retail operators, from casual takeaway to premium waterfront restaurants.
The precinct features 6,000 square metres of public domain including a water play art feature, creative installations and a waterfront promenade where locals and visitors are relaxing, eating and connecting.
Additional light rail services will support the new Sydney Fish Market with even more public transport options to follow, including a new ferry wharf, upgrades to Wentworth Park light rail and the upcoming metro at Pyrmont.
The Government has also partnered with Mirvac to revitalise the old fish market site at Blackwattle Bay, where 1,400 new homes will be built, along with 2.6 hectares of public space as well as a new promenade completing the 15-kilometre foreshore walk from Rozelle Bay to Woolloomooloo.
Minister for Lands and Property
Steve Kamper said: “What a success to welcome over 230,000 people through its doors in the first week – a testament to the beautiful building, and the quality and diversity of the retail offering.
“Locals and visitors alike are flocking to the new markets, and these numbers give us great confidence that we will surpass the expected six million visitors in its first year.
“We knew this would be a hit and we expect that these strong numbers will continue and people will be drawn back time and time again to try everything this icon has to offer.”
Sydney Fish Market CEO Daniel Jarosch said: “We are absolutely thrilled with how Sydney has embraced our new Sydney Fish Market. The spectacular response from the community reinforces how important this place is to our city’s culture and identity.
“People are discovering a stunning new building, and a more diverse market experience, with an unparalleled range of seafood, dining and retail options catering for everyone, from those looking for every-day great value to an unforgettable waterfront experience.”
BY TRAVEL EDITOR EMMA WILSON
RECENTLY, I stayed at Adina Chippendale Sydney and was amazed at how it echoed the feel of my many family trips to Fiji over my lifetime with all the tropical feels.
Despite being in the heart of Sydney’s bustling dense inner-city suburbs, the Adina Chippendale property has a wonderful relaxed holiday vibe, with a white painted exterior with apricot tiled hued aspects, decorative cactus themed areas and a spacious tropical courtyard.
The courtyard, full of plants, manicured hedges and a lawn area, was large enough for kids to play in, and you could enjoy lunch or cocktails or relax by the pool all day long in the very private setting on any given day with a good book.
Many of the spacious and modern apartments overlook the courtyard, giving you a perfect view of the activity below and even the lift up to the rooms has tropical decor. You very much feel on holiday once you step on the grounds.
It’s the perfect alternative summer stay to heading overseas during our hot weather weeks and suit days of lazing around the pool with young kids who can be tricky to travel with on long plane trips. It’s an excellent tropical holiday staycation, girls getaway or even a budget friendly trip for a solo parent who wants to skip the international price tag. It’s easy.
The hotel’s gymnasium adjacent to the entry of the courtyard has free weights, running machines and cardio equipment to keep the motivation going on holiday (I wish). For kids daytime activities, nearby Broadway
Shopping Centre has a cinema, which is great for catching family-friendly movies. Paddy’s Markets is fantastic for exploring and picking up fun, unique items. There are a few local parks and green spaces, like the nearby Victoria Park, which has playgrounds and open areas for kids to run around.
The neighborhood is mostly gentrified, creative and University-influenced hub of cafes, boutiques, specialty stores, historical pubs and galleries. It is conveniently located, close to Central Station,
Surrey Hills and Ultimo and not far from Newtown. We took an easy 10-minute stroll from the Adina Chippendale to the White Rabbit Gallery, a fascinating three-story private art space with a strong focus on Oriental art.
Afterwards we wandered over to Spice Alley, which, as the name suggests, is a cool alleyway dedicated to delicious Asian food and you can find it all there, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese. The decor is bright and fun, with festive lanterns setting the scene for an intimate Asian foodie experience like nothing else in Sydney.
If you don’t like Asian food, there are plenty of other options and the fun part of this being a historic industrial part of Sydney are the lovely heritage buildings repurposed while retaining their charm. The Old Rum Store is now a three storey food emporium, giving plenty of choice between French, Sicilian, Modern Australian and Contemporary Korean. We ate delicious French food after a visit to The Old Clare’s Rooftop Bar with a bar-hop in an Uber 5 minutes down the road to vibrant Newtown.
Starting early in the afternoon, as is our habit when we are not with our children, everything we experienced was close enough to the Adina Chippendale to be back in time to watch a movie in bed. The bed is SO comfy! Seriously.
Breakfast the next day was a delicious and generous sized bruschetta overflowing with tomatoes for me and a breakfast burger for my husband.
If we were holidaying here with our children, many of the 42 rooms come equipped with fully functional kitchenettes, the kids can relax and eat in and continue enjoying their holiday as kids love to do, eating breakfast in front of cartoons in the comfort of this lovely modern hotel room.
This hotel would be a very cool location to book out for a wedding in the courtyard or if the wedding is taking place in Sydney.
Adina Chippendale’s lead in rates are from $289/night and from $339/night for a one bedder. There is also an opportunity for membership into TFE Hotels’ eClub. Members can unlock special deals as eClub members and enjoy special rates every time you book directly through the website. (Blackout dates apply). Find this hotel at 74-80 Ivy Street Chippendale Sydney.
BY JACOB RICHARDSON
LINDA Liddle (Rachel McAdams) is a put upon officeworker, distraught when her new boss - Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien), son of the former company owner who promised her a promotion - overlooks her, buddying up with one of her office foes.
But on a trip to Bangkok in the company jet, turbulence strikes, and Linda finds herself stranded on an island when their plane crashes. The only other survivor? Her asshole new boss.
Sam Raimi’s Send Help has its fair share of tropes and low-budget horror fare vibes. The early office sequences are close in and seem fairly ‘affordable’, shall we say. The CGI on the trailer-revealed plane crash isn’t great. And even a couple of squeamish later effects bely a somewhat lower cost than a great name like that should be able to conjure.
But at its whole, this is a film that plays on a great script and wonderful lead performances, along with a
wonderful central conceit. Trapped on an island, stranded, with your brutal boss at your mercy. It’s enough to make anyone go mad.
Rachel McAdams is wonderful as the pitiable but also crazy, survivalist, and ultimately bloodthirsty put upon employee, and Dylan O’Brien does well as the smarmy asshole of a boss. O’Brien and McAdams both have moments to shine, although perhaps none moreso
than a particular scene with a scalding hot knife, a neurotoxin, and what seems to be a horrid mutilation.
Raimi makes you squirm just as much in the banal office sequences as he does in the brutal island sequences. You’ll find yourself recoiling as much at an obtrusive bit of tuna fish around Linda’s lips as you will from a finger in her eye socket.
And indeed, this is a film that
trades on that squeamish feeling, because this is never really truly scary. Sure, the final sequence with some wonderful work from the makeup department on McAdams looks like something out of a horror movie, but for the most part what makes this movie so tense and horrifying is the idyllic setting, and the deeply unsettling play on power imbalances.
So, while it never truly scares, you’ll find yourself cringing in disgust, pity or awe for a decent chunk of this film’s runtime.
Ultimately, what should be said about Send Help is that it is fun. This is a movie that never takes itself too seriously. The craft is solid, the script and performances excellent, and Raimi brings a sense of joy to the work that makes it a pleasure to watch.
You can imagine this being a hit for a date, or for a catch up with some friends at the cinema - with plenty of moments to discuss over dinner afterwards.
Send Help needs no help to be a gory, funny and joyous time in the theatre. Four STARS.
