ANEW billion-dollar Aldi Automated Distribution Centre has been approved in the Aerotropolis, continuing momentum and signaling growing global investment confidence in one of Western Sydney’s most strategically important precincts. More inside.
Successful WEXPO Civics launch
THE first WEPO event for 2026 was an outstanding success with about 100 people attending, providing positive feedback on the Engaging Better with Government workshop.
Hosted by SydWest Multicultural Services and facilitated by Shazya Khan with guest speakers Blacktown State MP, Stephen Bali; SydWest CEO Elfa Moraitakis; and, youth speaker Sudeep Velagapudi; they discussed the three tiers of government and their lived experience in working towards successful outcomes.
After the informative talks the participants were engaged in an interactive session working through the maze of issues and identifying the more appropriate tier of government that would deal with the issue.
The discussion showed how a multi-tier governments need to collaborate with community and organisations to improve the outcome for society.
The participants had a deeper dive in the complex health system and how all tiers of government have their fair share of responsibilities working together with consumers and health industry.
Rotarian Keith Waller said: “Knowledge is key to find your way through the bureaucratic complexities, and we were shown how to participate in
parliamentary inquiries and council’s have your say so we can be part of the solution.”
Local accountant, Satish Kumar said: “This workshop was great way to interact with community leaders and the public on seeing how the different levels of government operate, and we can have real input into the decision making.”
Elfa Moraitakis said the session had equipped CALD community members with practical knowledge to navigate government systems, pathways to have their voices heard, and the confidence to actively shaping the decisions that affect their lives.
Sudeep Velagapudi said: "It was absolutely amazing to hear all the different experiences shared by those in attendance around their own interactions with different levels of government. Workshops like this are exactly what is needed to combat misinformation in the digital age.
Stephen Bali MP said he was pleasantly surprised by the large turn out and the thirst for knowledge. “You can be a keyboard warrior in the social media world or make positive change and engage with people in the real world,” he said.
For more upcoming WEXPO events see: www.wexpo.com.au
Personalised cancer treatment with AI
ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) is rapidly accelerating the shift towards personalised cancer treatments, says an RMIT expert explains how these advances are improving treatment options and what challenges still need to be overcome. Associate Professor Jessica Holien, School of Science says:
"Because of the powerful combination of biology, technology and AI, we are moving beyond standard chemotherapy and one-size-fits-all therapies toward approaches guided by the unique genetic and molecular features of each patient’s cancer. "For many cancers, advances in standard chemotherapy have led
to outstanding results. However, side effects can be significant, and some cancers have become resistant to these treatments over time. This shift, driven by AI, has the potential to deliver treatments that are not only more effective, but also less toxic and better aligned with individual patients.”
Western Sydney footprint
WEXPO Civics in action.
Penrith welcomes Helloworld stadium
PENRITH’S new world-class stadium will be known as Helloworld Stadium, with the travel professionals to be the inaugural naming rights partner of Sydney’s newest destination.
Helloworld Travel is Australia’s leading travel company with the largest network of 2000 independent franchise travel agents. The five-year stadium naming rights partnership marks Helloworld Travel’s first sponsorship of a major sporting venue.
Penrith’s new crown jewel 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 estab-
lished areas connecting local families with jobs, recreation and opportunity.
Helloworld Stadium will seat 25,000 fans in sports mode and up to 30,000 for concerts. Currently under construction set to open in 2027 the project will generate around 500 jobs during construction, with more than 650 ongoing jobs supported once the stadium is operational.
Key features of Helloworld Stadium include steeper grandstands to bring fans closer to the action, new videoboards and sound system, more food and beverage outlets, increased bathrooms, modern corporate facilities, improved safety and security, the family-friendly hills have been retained and four gender neutral changerooms will support the growth of men’s and women’s sport.
Once operational, Helloworld Stadium will be home of the Penrith Panthers, and host concerts, motocross and other major and sporting events.
The venue replaces the original Penrith Park which opened in 1967.
Minister for Sport and Tourism Steve Kamper said Penrith is ready to take off with Helloworld Travel coming onboard as the inaugural naming rights partner of western Sydney’s newest destination.
“With construction of Helloworld Stadium to be completed and the new Western Sydney Airport to open this year, this is an exciting partnership that will take Penrith to the world and creating a sport and entertainment destination that supports the local economy year-round,” he said.
Helloworld Travel CEO Andrew Burnes said: “Today marks an incredibly proud moment for Helloworld Travel and our network of passionate travel professionals. The naming of Helloworld Stadium reflects our long-standing commitment in Australia and New Zealand to connecting people with unforgettable experiences –whether that’s exploring the world with the help of our legion of travel professionals or coming together to celebrate great sporting and live entertainment events.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Venues NSW on this exciting new chapter in Penrith and look forward to seeing Helloworld Stadium become a place that will create lifelong memories for friends and families.”
Construction continues on Perith Stadium.
Artist impression of the new complex.
Funding to uplift creatives and arts
NEW funding is set to boost grassroots arts, culture and creative activity across Western Sydney.
Create NSW and the Western Sydney Arts Alliance have partnered to deliver a new $200,000 Creative Western Sydney Micro Grants Program giving independent artists, creative collectives and small arts organisations across the region access to micro grants between $3,000 and $10,000 for local projects. With consultation and guidance from the sector, the program will support emerging artists and small-to-medium grassroots organisations to bring a broad range of creative visions to life, across multiple artforms and priority areas.
Increasing access, participation and representation for young people, First Nations peoples, people with disability or who are d/Deaf and culturally and linguistically diverse communities is a key priority of the program.
The program is expected deliver more opportunities for local artists, exciting experiences for audiences, new collaborations and experimentation, plus the creative development or presentation of innovative new work.
The program is one of several new funding initiatives committed as part of the Plan for Western Sydney Arts, Culture and Creative Industries 2025 –2028, and builds on Create NSW’s current investment in Western Sydney.
Individual artists and collectives may apply for grants between $3,000 -$5,000, while organisations can apply for grants between $5,000 and $10,000 for projects occurring between 1 July 2026 and 30 June 2027. Applicants must have a physical presence within the 13 Western Sydney local government areas to be eligible.
Create NSW Executive Director, Kerri Glasscock said: “This exciting funding opportunity will make a significant impact for the entire arts ecosystem of Western Sydney. Micro grants will help sustain the creative practice of independent artists and support smaller organisations to deliver amazing creative projects across the region. Our partnership with Western Sydney Arts Alliance will help deliver meaningful outcomes where it’s needed most.”
Mouna Zaylah, Chair, Western Sydney Arts Alliance said: “Western Sydney Arts Alliance is pleased to be working with Create NSW to deliver the micro-grant program, creating meaningful opportunities for artists, makers and small to medium arts organisations across Western Sydney. This targeted and responsive grant program recognises the significance of the region’s smaller-scale creative practice and is vital in supporting artists and organisations to develop new work and test ideas. As an initiative, it strengthens Western Sydney’s vibrant and diverse arts ecology – from the ground up.”
Applications close April 28, 2026. For more information, and to apply, visit www.create.nsw.gov.au
Report shows fewer teens are vaping
ANEW report from Cancer Council’s Generation Vape research project shows fewer teenagers are taking up vaping since the NSW Government introduced tough vaping goods laws. New findings show the number of
NSW teens surveyed in the Generation Vape project who have tried vaping has declined from 29.6 per cent in April 2024 to 20.1 per cent in October 2025. The report presented findings from NSW teens (14-17 years) on changes in vape use, access
and perceptions between April 2024 and October 2025. The encouraging decline follows the commencement of new laws introduced by the NSW Government which banned vapes from being sold in retail settings across NSW. The laws also mean
vaping products can only be dispensed from a pharmacy for smoking cessation and management of nicotine dependence. NSW has some of the toughest penalties in the country for the sale and commercial possession of illicit tobacco.
Buying, selling a business MASTERCLASS
Parramatta event demystifies process
BUYING or selling a business is one of the most significant life decisions many people will make. Getting the right information at the right time can make all the difference between a successful transition and a costly mistake.
he 2026 Buying and Selling a Business MASTERCLASS at WEXPO is attracting strong interest from business owners across Western Sydney and for good reason!
WEXPO has partnered with Xclusive Business Brokers and Aspect Legal, two of Australia’s leading business advisory firms to deliver in-person and practical insights that you won’t find online.
At this engaging and informative event, you’ll learn the six key points around selling and buying businesses, including:
• How businesses are valued and how to increase that.
• The biggest mistakes sellers make and how to avoid them.
• What buyers are really looking for - right now.
• Tips to prepare your business for sale before you go to market.
• How to value your business.
• Structuring deals, negotiations and timing for maximum value.
Our presenters include:
• Zoran Sarabaca - Director, Xcllusive Business Brokers.
• Joanna Oakey, Aspect Legal.
The event forms part of the broader WEXPO series, which brings together business leaders, industry experts and community organisations to share knowledge, build networks and support business growth in the region. For many business owners, selling a business represents the culmination of years of hard work and investment. Yet without proper preparation, including
understanding valuation, legal obligations, tax implications and buyer expectations, owners can risk underselling their enterprise or encountering unexpected challenges during negotiations.
Similarly, prospective buyers must approach acquisitions carefully. Conducting proper due diligence, analysing financial records, understanding market positioning and securing professional legal and financial advice are essential steps in ensuring a sound investment.
The WEXPO session will demystify the process by bringing experienced advisers together to explain the key stages involved in buying or selling a business. Attendees will gain practical insights, ask questions and learn how to avoid common pitfalls.
Events like this highlight the value of face-to-face forums where business owners can connect directly with experts, share experiences and gain the knowledge useful in making confident decisions about the future of their businesses.
For entrepreneurs planning their next move, the message is clear: when it comes to business transactions, good advice is optional.
Every guest receives a free copy of the book - Buy Grow Exit by Aspect Law’s Joanna Oakey.
Event details
This session will be held on Monday, May 4th.
Time: 12.30pm to 3pm.
Location: Novotel Parramatta.
Tickets: $9.90 per head includes refreshments and FREE copy of the book Buy Grow Exit by Joanna Oakey. To book: www.wexpo.com.au
The WEXPO May 4 event will also feature exhibitor stalls and a special segment for parents called Careers of Today.
Xcllu-sive
Business Brokers.
Zoran SarabacaDirector.
2026 Apprenticeship / Traineeship & Jobs Expos
EXHIBITOR REGISTRATIONS & SPONSORSHIPS NOW OPEN
Connect with over 18,000 potential recruits. Last year, our expos attracted thousands of job seekers across NSW. Don’t miss your chance to tap into this massive talent pool. Scan the QR Code to register your booth today.
O V E R 6 0 0 0 S T U D E N T S
2 0 & 2 1 M A Y P E N R I T H V A L L E Y
R E G I O N A L
S P O R T S C E N T R E
9 A M - 2 P M
B O T H D A Y S
3 0 H E R B E R T S T
C A M B R I D G E
P A R K N S W
Offering Exhibitors the opportunity to speak with thousands of GWS High School students and Careers Advisers as students explore career and further education options available to them through Universities, Registered Training Organisations, Apprenticeship Centre’s, Group Training Organisations, Private Colleges, Professional Associations and Employers
SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER AS A SPONSOR OR EXHIBITOR
Aldi to open at Aerotropolis
ANEW billion-dollar Aldi Automated Distribution Centre has been approved in the Aerotropolis, continuing momentum and signaling growing global investment confidence in one of Western Sydney’s most strategically important precincts.
The innovative logistics hub, will be the size of 15 soccer fields and is expected to create around 3,700 construction jobs and 585 permanent local jobs, providing a major economic boost for Western Sydney.
Located beside the new Western Sydney Airport the global retail giant will be able to take advantage of incoming national and international freight to supply their more than 200 of its stores across the state.
Once built it will operate 24/7 with around 80 per cent of operations to be automated and rooftop solar panels, energy efficient design to help the facility reach a goal of net-zero operations by 2035.
The Aldi project is the biggest distribution centre green lit in the Aerotropolis and the first state significant approval within the Ingham Property Group Master Plan area, which is a key Aerotropolis precinct designed for mixed-use industrial, commercial and
retail opportunities located adjacent to Bradfield City, Australia’s first new city in 100 years.
The recently released draft Sydney Plan outlines the long-term vision for the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and Bradfield City as a nationally significant centre for jobs, industry and global connectivity, anchored by Western Sydney International Airport
and new city-shaping infrastructure.
Since 2023 the NSW Government have approved seven projects worth more than $1.9B in the Aerotropolis with a further 25 worth more than $5.8B in the pipeline.
Approved State Significant Developments in the Aerotropolis, include the Bradfield City’s 2 Advanced Manufacturing Research Facilities and large-scale industrial estates such as the Elizabeth Enterprise Precinct and Barings Luddenham Industrial Estate.
Deputy Premier of New South Wales and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said: “This billion-dollar investment will create more than 3,700 jobs and over 500 ongoing roles, a strong show of confidence in the potential of the Aerotropolis precinct.
“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on our promise to grow Western Sydney by backing projects that create jobs, attract investment, and unlock opportunity.
“This project will further solidify Western Sydney as a critical hub of employment, industry, and innovation.”
New bus routes to start from July
COMMUTERS from Penrith through to Campbelltown now have a start date for five new permanent bus routes, with the NSW Government announcing the services to Western International Airport will commence on July 5. In uncertain times, families
want confidence, security and a clear plan for the future and delivering the infrastructure growing communities need is a central part of that plan. This $302.7M investment in the five new routes is part of an overall $362.7M investment allocated to new Western
Sydney bus services by the Government since taking office. Starting three months ahead of passenger airline services, the routes from Penrith (790), Campbelltown (845), Liverpool (825 and 860) and Mount Druitt (772), will be begin connecting surrounding com-
munities and businesses along with locals who work at the new airport in construction and freight. As Western Sydney continues to grow, these services will ensure local communities are connected to the jobs and economic opportunities created by the new airport.
Artist impression of the facility.
CPA Support for a fairer ATO
CPA Australia supports the Tax Ombudsman’s call for fairer General Interest Charges (GIC) remission and welcomes the ATO accepting all recommendations to improve transparency, consistency and fairness. The group says reforms must include empathy and proportionality, especially for taxpayers facing genuine financial hardship. It stresses clearer guidance, better communication and more balanced decision-making, particularly since GIC became non-deductible in 2025, increasing financial pressure on individuals and small businesses.
Foster care reforms overdue
THE PSA says NSW foster care reforms are a long-overdue reset after outsourcing failures under the Permanency Support Program. The union argues fragmented responsibility harmed outcomes despite rising costs. Reforms will strengthen government oversight, reduce outsourcing, improve accountability, boost foster carer recruitment, and support Aboriginal organisations. The PSA says the changes respond to frontline concerns, restore decision-making to government, and aim to improve child protection outcomes and public confidence.
Govt to review cafe red tape
THE NSW Government will review red tape affecting cafés and restaurants to simplify approvals, reduce paperwork and make compliance clearer for more than 50,000 food businesses. Led by the Productivity and Equality Commissioner, the review will examine licences, permits, reporting and inspections, aiming to cut duplication without lowering safety standards. Building on existing small business reforms, recommendations will be delivered in August 2026 to help operators focus on customers and growth.
Suspended under new laws
NSW Fair Trading has suspended agent Deepak Bangarh’s licence for 60 days over price misrepresentation and failing to pass on all offers and appointed a manager to oversee his business during ongoing investigations. In a separate case, Epping agent John Kim’s licence was cancelled and he was disqualified for five years after allegedly misappropriating about $300,000 in trust funds. NSW is also considering tougher underquoting laws and has launched a public “Name and Shame” register for disciplinary actions.
Real costs of extreme weather
EXTREME weather caused almost $3.5B in insured losses across 264,000 claims in 2025, according to the Insurance Council of Australia. Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred was the costliest event at $1.5 billion, while severe spring hailstorms
Lockout laws finally gone
TWELVE years after Sydney’s lockout laws began, the NSW Government is removing the final major restrictions, including the 3:30am last drinks rule, to boost the night-time economy. Changes also scrap plastic cup rules and other blanket limits, while retaining key safety measures. A review found targeted regulation can maintain safety as assaults decline. The reforms aim to revive live music, support venues, and strengthen Sydney’s growing entertainment precincts and nightlife economy.
Salves urge using Moneycare
THE Salvation Army is urging Australians to use Moneycare, its free financial counselling service, as new research shows 44% will start 2026 in debt and many feel growing financial stress. De-
added $1.4B. Five major events were declared significant or catastrophic. Insurers expect costs to rise as more claims arrive and continue supporting recovery efforts, with further extreme weather already impacting Australia in early 2026.
spite delivering over 48,000 sessions last year, awareness remains low. Moneycare helps with budgeting, debt and financial planning. Survey results show widespread money pressures and discomfort discussing finances, with the Salvos encouraging people to seek support and reduce financial stress.
Call for under-18 super
THE Super Members Council wants to scrap rules denying most under-18 workers super, saying 119,000 NSW teens will miss out on $98 million in 2025/26. Current laws require under-18s to work over 30 hours weekly to qualify. The council argues the rule is outdated, worsens the gender super gap, and unfairly excludes part-time workers. It says reform would boost retirement savings, simplify compliance, and has minimal impact on businesses.
Telling stories, celebrating success, inspiring all WISB is about progress. The stories that stem from the rich ecosystem of women growing in and succeeding in businesses across all sectors and all levels.
WWW.WOMNENINSMALLBUSINESS.AU
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WOMENINSMALLBUSINESS
Changes in ATO tax debt interest
MICHAEL MOON
IF you've got ATO debt, the interest on it is probably costing you more than you think. And the rules just changed.
The ATO charges interest on unpaid tax. It's called General Interest Charge and it runs every day, including the days you pay. Since July last year it stopped being tax-deductible. If your business owed $50,000 in GIC last year, the tax deduction meant the real cost was closer to $35,000. This year it costs $50,000. Same debt, 30% more expensive. And it's still compounding.
This has been building for years. The interest owed by Australian businesses has grown 185% in six years. The actual debt grew 94%. Of the $54.2 billion the ATO is chasing, 18 cents in every dollar is now interest. Six years ago it was 13 cents. For many businesses, interest has overtaken the original debt. That's part of what brought this review into being.
The shift became visible in late 2023. The ATO moved into collection mode. Refusal rates on remission applications increased — these are the formal requests businesses make to have GIC reduced or waived, sometimes completely.
The professional community noticed and complaints to the Ombuds-
man followed. Last week the Tax Ombudsman released its review. The ATO accepted all four recommendations. The Ombudsman will be monitoring implementation. But when you have tax debt, the one thing you don't have is time. So here is what changed, what it means, and what to do today.
A payment plan stops enforcement. It does not stop the interest. GIC compounds every day you are on the plan. The only way to reduce that cost is a remission application running alongside it. The reconsideration pathway this review has opened is a genuine opportunity — for the first time a
Find a local business that comes to you in person or remotely. From dentists to your door, removalists, trades, telehealth, food and more
refused application is not the end of the road.
You can now ask for the decision to be looked at again on the basis that the criteria weren't applied correctly. No new evidence. No lawyers. No federal court. That last part matters more than it sounds. Until now, your only avenue to challenge a refusal was a tribunal or court process most businesses couldn't afford or stomach.
This is a genuine change. If you got knocked back in the past 18 months and the full story wasn't put forward, it's worth another look.
Most businesses with ATO debt have grounds. The question is whether the case is put together well enough to succeed.
But the door only opens if you knock on it correctly. The standard of application is the bottleneck. The approval rates in the review sound good: 84% for large businesses, 75-77% for small. But those came from 126,000 applications out of 19.7 million lodging taxpayers. Six in every thousand.
Those businesses were the ones who knew to apply in the first place, and in all likelihood had specialist help. The new pathway will only deliver those outcomes to businesses that bring the same level of preparation to it. Whether this produces real outcome change at volume is still an open question. Time will tell.
Most people think their accountant covers this. A good accountant might have five ATO debt cases on the go at any time. We run more than 150. That's not a dig. It's the difference between knowing the rules and knowing how they play out in practice. There's no case officer filling gaps anymore. What you submit is what gets assessed.
One in three businesses that defaulted on ATO debt were gone within six months. That is the CreditorWatch number across 19,439 companies. Not struggling. Gone. Getting to $100,000 is not hard.
GIC alone can double a debt in a few years without a payment arrangement in place. The ATO flags your debt to credit bureaus at $100,000. Most businesses don't know that until it happens. We start worrying at $70,000. The door is open. The question is whether you can get through it. The businesses that do will have acted early, prepared properly, and worked with people who do this every day.
Don't wait to find out which side of that line you're on.
Michael Moon is a Director at Tax Assure, a specialist tax debt negotiation firm. Tax Assure works on an assessment and engagement fee followed by a success fee based on GIC and penalties actually remitted. Initial consults are obligation free. 1300 952 295 | taxassure.com.au
Michael Moon.
CAREERS OF TODAY
2 0 2 6
Unlock the latest job-market trends and learn how to guide your child’s future at the 2026 Careers of Today Parent Education Forum in Western Sydney.
�� Date: 4 May 2026
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Venue: Novotel Sydney Parramatta, 350 Church Street, Parramatta
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Panelist forum commencing at: 4 15 pm
Cost: $9,90 per family
Register at Website: https://wexpo.com.au/
Hear from Industry and Educational Experts including; AI and Technology
Construction
Early Childhood Education & Care
Health
Western Sydney Airport
Australian Catholic University WEXPO EVENTS
Key Benefits
Insights from industry leaders
Learn about growing employment opportunities
Connect directly with educational institutions
Make informed decisions about career pathways
Network with industry professiona
Did you know only 28% of parents feel confident in guiding their children’s career choices in today’s ever-changing job market?
Canterbury Bankstown LBA Launch 2026
Canterbury Bankstown LBAs return
Now is time cast your vote
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.
Hi I’m Irene Tilegrafos a self-taught makeup artist based in Sydney NSW. My journey in the beauty industry b egan at a young age between the ages of 14 and 16 when I first discovered my pas sion for makeup. At 16 I starte d freelancing in Mosman on Sydney’s North Shore the area where I grew up and it’s been an incredible journey ever since.Beauty and makeup have always b een a deep passion of mine and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to do what I love every day. Along the way I’ve had the privilege of meeting amazing pe ople and creating a safe comfortable space for women to feel their most confident and beautiful. There’s nothing more rewarding than bringing a vision to life and seeing the true glow and confidence emerge from within each person I work with.
At Squiggles and Giggles Early Learning childcare Centre, we believe that each child should feel safe, respected, included and cared for in our service. The early years are the foundations of fundamental learning in which each child should feel free to explore their individuality and build their skills and development through meaningful experiences, engagement and exploration and aim to embed sustainable practices in our everyday learning environment. We acknowledge that the families are the first educators in a child's life and aim to work collaboratively to ensure the best quality care and education is provided to children in our service through mutual understanding, respect and common goals.
BRUNCH CAFÉ & GRILL
20 Inner West LBA Launch 2026
INNER WEST LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS RETURNS
And it’s time to cast your VOTE
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.
Scenes form last year’s gala event.
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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W WE SUPPORT delivers a comprehensive guide to providers working in Australia’s most dynamic and diverse region Greater Western Sydney and is published in four popular Western Sydney media brands each quarter.
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Pasticceria Papa is your one stop food destination in the Inner West. The well-known Pasticceria presents a beautiful display of cakes, gelato and savoury options, while the Haberfield location also boasts a Deli and Italian Restaurant. 2025 marks 35 years since the creation of Pasticceria Papa by owner Salvatore Papa, bringing the beloved flavours of Italy to Australia.
The Restaurant is a fun, loud and friendly ambience. We enjoy seeing meals completely finished and sauces lick ed off plates. Vote for
CONCERNING MYOPIA RATES AMONG CHILDREN
AS we move into the 2026 school year, optometrists are encouraging parents to make outdoor play a priority for their children this school year with new data from Bupa Optical revealing that 27 per cent of Australian children who underwent an eye test last year were diagnosed with myopia.
Spending time outdoors has been proven to be beneficial for reducing myopia risk amongst children however outdoor play is on the decline with separate research noting that 50 per cent of kids reported not being allowed to play outside alone or with friends at various times. Additionally, a quarter of Aussie kids say they need improvement in the opportunities to play outside and hang out with friends.
Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin said childhood myopia rates have been on the rise, especially in the years following the COVID pandemic, with fundamental changes to children’s lifestyles lingering well beyond lockdowns.
“We continue to see more and more parents coming in to report that their children have been having trouble in the classroom as a result of vision problems.
“While factors such as genetics play
a significant role in the development of myopia, the common thread amongst many of these new cases is more time in front of screens and less time spent playing outdoors in natural light, which improves contrast sensitivity, reduces eye fatigue, and stimulates dopamine release in the retina, which helps regulate eye growth,” Karen said.
A 2025 study from Macquarie University found secondary school students averaged around 9 hours daily on
screens, while primary students spent appriximatly 6 hours. This is despite Government recommendations that for young people aged 5–17 years, it is recommended they have no more than two hours of sedentary recreational screen time per day.
“While there is a growing trend towards more schoolwork being undertaken online or via devices, we are concerned that recreational time has followed suit, with time spent gaming,
on social media or watching entertainment on smart devices at the expense of time spent playing outside.
“While physical conditions are often easier for parents to spot, vision problems can be much harder to detect. That’s why we recommend yearly eyetests for children ahead of the school year to ensure any issues are detected and addressed early,” Karen said.
Along with special purpose glasses and contact lenses to help control myopia progression, other ways Bupa Optometrists can treat myopia include through Orthokeratology. This is a form of vision correction where hard contact lenses are worn overnight while sleeping and are fitted such that they change the shape of the cornea, resulting in clear vision when the lenses are removed in the morning, as well as keeping the progression of myopia in check.
“But we would much prefer a child didn’t get to the stage of needing vision correction and myopia management, so send your children out into the backyard to play,” added Karen.
With cost-of-living pressures affecting many families, parents can rest assured that eye tests are bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders at Bupa Optical.
a
Are you looking for support or worried about someone you care about? Call Medicare Mental Health and we’ll guide you to the right services and supports for your needs. Phone 1800 595 212.
The phone service is free for anyone seeking support and guidance, including family members and carers.
You can call the phone service between 8:30am to 5:00pm weekdays (excl. public holidays).
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Toki Bistro and Bar, North Sydney
FOR an alternative Friday night dining experience minus the trek into the CBD, Toki Bistro and Bar in North Sydney just might be your answer.
Right in the heart of the business precinct at 100 Miller Street, it is conveniently adjacent to the new Metro and North Sydney stations, offering a sanctuary away from the work week.
The restaurant is located inside of the Northpoint Tower, revitalised in 2018, where a dynamic retail and office space during the day transforms into an elegant dining quarter once the laptops and office doors are closed for the day.
Think soft lights, flowing curtains with talented and welcoming staff, mostly European, adding authenticity to the experience.
The cocktail program rivals Sydney’s best. I enjoyed the Quiet Flame, a delicious balanced blend of Mezcal, Bourbon, and beetroot syrup. Served theatrically under soft curls of smoke, work week dramas seem far away.
/The menu is a clever example of French-Japanese fusion, marrying traditional European culinary technique with delicate flavours and impressive presentation. Our star starters were an aesthetic masterpiece: Stracciatella with onion jam and nectarines coupled with the
Snow Crab toast that almost looked too good to eat!
The Murray Cod, paired with bright orange and fennel, was exceptionally tender, while the Lamb Rump with smoked macadamias offered
Wa rich, textured depth that delights your palate. Guillaume, our charismatic French waiter, politely guided us to better wine choices that didn’t disappoint.
Put Toki on your list of special
places to experience for top Sydney dining in North Sydney.
An intimate dining experience
ITH a laid-back coastal vibe enjoying views across the harbour at Rose Bay in Sydney, Rasa House is one of the coolest places to kick back and enjoy a specially curated cocktail while you leisurely choose any of their Asian inspired delights from the menu.
Rasa House has developed a strong and loyal following from ‘its locals’ as well as the more intrepid traveller with a culinary sense of adventure who pack this restaurant out 7 days a week.
Vinnay Matta, the charismatic owner of Rasa House, effortlessly engages with all his guests to ensure that their dining experience exceeds their expectations. He is adept at suggesting the right dishes for you to experience the depth and breadth of his east and southeast Asia culinary traditions. With a range of exotic foods presented to perfection, Vinnay ensures that all tastes are catered for. The absolute stand out for me was his hibachi grilled satay chicken skewers!!
Bookings: https://www.rasahouse.com.au/#bookings
Telling stories, celebrating success, inspiring all WISB is about progress. The stories that stem from the rich ecosystem of women growing in and succeeding in businesses across all sectors and all levels.
Delicious memories of the Lau Pa Sat hawker markets in Singapore immediately flooded through my head as soon as I bit into Vinnay’s version of this delicacy.
The friendly, professional service and attention to detail by the Rasa House team changed my thoughts from having “just a night out for dinner” to being fully immersed in an exotic food journey where I savoured the dietary delights from cultures embedded across Asia. Alyssa, our attentive team mem
ber with her Nebraskan accent who has since made Australia home, made sure that we paired the right wine, chosen from their extensive international wine list, with our food choices. The result was a delight to our senses.
As a restaurant that can host an intimate dinner for two through to a full family gathering, all while overlooking Sydney Harbour, it has endeared itself to me as one that I will return to so I can continue my exotic food journey with Vinnay and his team.
Toki Bistro & Bar, 100 Miller Street, North Sydney, +61 461 443 256 booking@toki. sydney
Wine Pairing, Greek Dining in The Rocks
FOR one night only, The Rocks’ newest Greek taverna Jimmy’s Kitchen is hosting a special wine-pairing dinner bringing together traditional Greek dining and boutique Australian winemaking.
In collaboration with Small Forest Wines, the Upper Hunter label by acclaimed Japanese-born winemaker Atsuko Radcliffe, the $185pp ticketed experience will feature a four-course Greek menu paired with her small-batch wines, now newly listed at the venue.
Guests will enjoy pairings throughout the night including village-style spanakopita paired with Small Forest Verdelho 2022, Chargrilled Striploin Steak paired with Shiraz 2019 and smokey hot pita bread & fries w/ oregano & feta, alongside live Greek dancing, entertainment, and the warm, old-school hospitality Jimmy’s Kitchen has quickly become known for.
Founded in 2013, Small Forest Wines is the culmination of Radcliffe’s nearly four decades of experience across Australia, France and Japan, including her role as an International Wine Challenge judge in London -
an honour she has held annually since 2012. Today, she produces small-batch wines that express the character of the Upper Hunter and are known for being vibrant, food-friendly, and easy to drink.
The world Is our oyster, women embracing adventure at any age
TRAVEL EDITOR EMMA WILSON
FOR a very long time indeed -women were expected to fade into the background once the days of ironing school uniforms and cleaning out lunch boxes were done.That era is over. Today, women are not retreating instead, they’re stepping into new adventures. And no one shows this better
than Di Westaway OAM, founder of Coastrek and Wild Women on Top.
Wild Women on Top was founded in 2004 by Di to connect and support women in the outdoors. Di launched Coastrek in 2009 as a team trekking challenge designed to inspire women to get outdoors, move their bodies and support each other while raising funds for charity.
What began as a simple idea of women walking spectacular coastal trails together has grown into a powerful movement that has raised tens of millions of dollars for organisations such as the Fred Hollows Foundation, funding vital programs to restore sight and improve health outcomes around the world.
A new grandmother now, Di admits that the older she gets, the more she finds fresh joy on the bike, ocean swimming or rock climbing on rock faces in Greece. As she ages, she’s not slowing down, she’s discovering honing her technique, getting better, and fully embracing the belief that the world truly opens up as we grow.
Di is a great example to mothers everywhere, cleaning squished bananas out of the bottom of school bags wondering if our best years are behind us. Equally, Di’s story isn’t just about her, it’s about what’s possible for all of
us. We need women like Di. Women who show us that there’s no age limit on adventure. Whether it’s walking, cycling, climbing or ocean swimming. Di’s journey reminds us all that the best discoveries are still ahead.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, pick up those trekking shoes, grab that bike, and remember that adventure doesn’t have an age limit.
There’s a little bit of heart in the formula for this Aussie-set rom-com
JACOB RICHARDSON
GRACE (Teresa Palmer) counts numbers incessantly, in an effort to hold her world together. But a chance encounter with Seamus (Joe Dempsie) leads her to take a chance on love; throwing her world upside down in the process.
Addition struggles to shake off, perhaps, the shackles of the nation in which it comes from. There are little fingerprints that tell you it’s an Aussie film; an overly complicated plot with a raft of extraneous side characters, plenty of ‘inclusion’, and perhaps a touch too much in making it look amazing.
It’s when the makeup of Addition casts off these extra little elements and focuses on what it should be - a good rom-com - that it works best. here’s a lot of nuance and difficulty in this story, but the central conceit, of a woman with a mental illness that impedes, and ultimately implodes, her romantic life, is a strong one, and handled well. At least, up until that implosion. Teresa Palmer does an OK job in the lead, but Joe Dempsie as her erstwhile lover is far and away the standout.
And they have a good chemistry, aided by some wonderfully strong dialogue from Becca Johnstone and Toni Jordan’s script.
The problem with Addition - outside of the trap-
pings already identified - fundamentally comes down to the structure. Whereas one might imagine a typical structure where the romantic leads break up after some complication caused by Grace’s illness, but are brought back together again, this film tries to eschew that - to some extent - in favour of a more complex, interweaved storyline that never quite takes off.
While there is a complication, it feels incredibly rushed because of all of the disparate elements the filmmakers are trying to cram in here (including a Tesla apparition, a tragic backstory, and a niece discovering her sexuality).
When we should be rooting for Grace and Seamus
to put aside their differences and get back together, instead we’re treated to a rapid ‘fixing’ of Grace’s illness by a therapist in a deus ex machina way, a shoehorned in plot with Grace’s niece confiding her secrets in her, and a hurried makeup between the actual characters we care about. It’s too many numbers to add up to a satisfying film.
Which is a shame, because the back and forth banter, the meet cute, the challenges of their relationship and the genuine chemistry between the two actors in the lead relationship is really strong. Some of these lines are laugh out loud funny, even for the jaded critic.
But spreading it so thin, because the screentime is being used for this ‘complex’ backstory, does a disservice to what we’re actually interested in here - how do two people find a way to make their love work in the face of such adversity?
There are great ideas captured here, and the film stands strong as a slightly more complex rom-com in a country that produces very few of those, but it is made all the more bittersweet to see it stumble in the third act, when the relationship it had started to build felt so strong; until it got distracted by other plot threads.
Addition never quite adds up to the sum of its parts. With a strong central romance and a standout performance from Joe Dempsie, the film nevertheless ties itself in knots to provide complexity and nuance it doesn’t need. 3 STARS.
BURNOUT OR BANK BALANCE? Cost of pushing too hard
KYLIE KING
I’M sure you can agree that burnout doesn’t happen overnight.
It creeps in slowly.
It starts with saying yes to one more client because you need the money. Or taking on one more project because you don’t want to miss the opportunity.
Or working one more night because that’s just what you do and even though you don’t have time, you’ll figure it out and keep going.
Until one day you realise, you’re exhausted… but you don’t stop or in some cases you don’t think you can stop.
Because the inbox is still full.
The clients still need you.
And the bills don’t pause just because you’re tired.
So you push through.
And I see this all the time in the ALIBI community. Strong, capable, incredible women who are carrying so much. Their business. Their family. Their clients. Their responsibilities. And somewhere in the middle of holding everything together, they stop checking in with themselves.
We tell ourselves it’s just a busy season. That it will calm down soon. That once we hit that next income goal, or finish that next project, we’ll finally rest.
But the finish line keeps moving.
What used to feel exciting starts to feel heavy. The thing you once loved starts to feel like pressure. You’re still showing up, still doing the work, but the spark
isn’t the same.
That there. That’s burnout.
And the scary part is, it often doesn’t look dramatic from the outside. Your business might still look successful. People might still be praising you. But inside, you’re tired in a way that sleep doesn’t fix.
Here’s the truth we don’t talk about enough: no bank balance is worth losing yourself over. And I know you know what I’m going to say but here is your sign to pay attention and remember:
You can always make more money.
You can always rebuild momentum.
But when your health, your energy, and your wellbeing are gone, everything becomes harder.
I’ve seen women step back, take a breath, and come back stronger. Not because they pushed harder, but because they finally allowed themselves to stop.
Rest isn’t quitting. Rest is what allows you to keep going.
Because success isn’t just about building a profitable business. It’s about building a life that actually feels good to live.
Your business should support you - not consume you.
So if you’re tired, listen to that. If your body is asking for a break, don’t ignore it. Taking a day off won’t make everything fall apart. In fact, it might be the very thing that holds everything together.
At the end of the day, your business needs you well.
Not just functioning. Not just surviving. But well.
Because the most valuable thing in your business was never the bank balance.
It was always you. And without you, there is no business.
Kylie King is a hypnotherapist, business and mindset mentor, and the founder of the ALIBI Awards, a national business awards program that celebrates women doing business their way. She believes every chapter of your journey deserves to be honoured. especially the ones that required the most courage. Visit: www.alibiawards.com.au
Kylie King.
