Western Sydney Express - September 2023

Coles the top dog

NEXT-GEN PARAMEDICS

New era for swim centre

Students put study into practice

FINAL year paramedicine students at Western Sydney University (WSU) have put their clinical theory into practice during a Mass Casualty Simulation exercise, testing their skills in a simulated underground train crash scenario held in the University’s state-of-the-art 360-degree Immersive Lab facility. Located at WSU’s new Paramedicine Building at the Campbelltown Campus, the 360-degree Immersive Lab facility allows paramedicine students to practice and be examined in a digital content generated environment with the use of projected images and recorded sounds. Dr Navin Naidoo, Director of the Paramedicine Academic Program within the School of Health Sciences said the advanced purpose-built training facility ensures student-centred learning and provides a unique, hands-on experience in preparation for real world scenarios upon graduation. More: page 5.

Coles Liverpool the Top Dog

COLES Liverpool took out the coveted ‘Top Dog’ Award for 2023 raising the highest amount, $830,000 for Guide Dogs charity that assists people with disabilities.

More than 900 Coles supermarkets and Coles Liquor stores across the country fundraised to help Guide Dogs breed, raise, and train puppies and adult dogs as companions for those with disabilities.

“Coles has a long and proud history with Guide Dogs, raising more than $14 million over 40 years through initiatives such as Donation Dogs, community bags and team member fundraising to help support Australians living with low vision or blindness,” Coles Group general manager Sally Fielke said.

“The Donation Dogs sit proudly in Coles stores across Australia as a reminder of the great work Guide Dogs do in the community and we can’t thank our customers enough for keeping them well fed over the past financial year.”

Other winners from NSW are Coles at Broadway and Maroubra Junction.

“When I see our coin Donation Dogs in Coles stores, I realise how even just a small amount can have a big impact,” Guide Dogs Manager Eddie Sullivan said.

“People approach me to say their first experience supporting Guide Dogs was when their parents let them put coins at Coles. Many years later, they still support us.”

“It’s wonderful to know our Donation Dogs hold a special place in the hearts of Coles customers and team members. Thank you everyone.”

Improved housing waiting list data

THE NSW Government is delivering on its promise to improve transparency of the social housing waiting list by providing up-to-date data. Under the previous Government, information about the number of people on the social housing waiting list was published on an annual basis.

This made it incredibly hard for the community to understand the extent of the crisis as often the data was out of date by the time it was published.

The current published data is more than a year old. Data covering both the general and priority waiting list will now be published monthly to give stakeholders, the sector and people waiting for social housing a clearer picture of need.

This means the NSW Government to identify trends over time to meet the demand for social housing.

Median waiting times for priority and general applicant households will be published on a quarterly basis to provide an accurate indication of how long applicants can expect to wait for housing in certain areas.

Previously, median waiting times were only published on an annual basis.

This initiative is part of a suite of NSW Government reforms to improve the social and affordable housing sector and address homelessness and housing insecurity.

www.acceSSNewS.cOm.au

September 2023 | eDItION 147

Published by the Community Broadcast Network.

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Coles team member Kristy with Guide Dog ambassador, Murphy.

IN THE HILLS

WEXPO Hills Workshops

Lee Ussher

Creating Attraction Marketing

Australia’s only authorised Grow with Google trainer guides her audience through techniques and strategies to maximise attraction marketing. Focussing on digital media and building audiences, Lee calls upon her vast experience as a teacher, mentor, and business founder to share practical techniques that will have an immediate positive affect on your business’s digital attraction.

Farid Zaki

The Recipe for Business Success

What is business success and how do we achieve it? The definition of success is broad. In this entertaining presentation by respected MD of Western Sydney based ATP Accountants Farid helps clients achieve greater profits, enjoy greater wealth, minimise tax, while maintaining steady cash flow. Farid is a long-term member of the Sydney Hills Business Chamber.

Marcus Whelan

Start From Where You Are At

It’s fitting that, in Mental Health month, performance coach and psychologist Marcus Whelan delivers a compelling presentation around calling time out conditions that could be holding you back – in business or personal life. Marcus is on a mission to help people grow and become the best they can be. His audience will take away useful insights to turn problems into opportunities.

Castle Grand, Castle Hill

& fellow Exhibitors

9 Identify how to expand your business beyond the hills.

9 Increase business growth by strengthening your connections.

9 Access free information & expertise from government organisations & industry professionals.

Katherine Hawes

Unpacking Legal Complexity

The principal at Digital Age Lawyers focuses on making legal information meaningful and actionable for small businesspeople and individuals. In this engaging session Katherine will lead her audience through key principles for creative solutions to everyday problems and discuss insights to common issues including social media, succession, contracts and property.

Tina Clark

Maximising

finance for business growth

As the CEO of Laurentide and CAFBA Board Member, Tina Clark brings over 25 years’ experience in the business and equipment financing industry to guide her audience through the most effective paths to securing finance for business growth.

A first-class opportunity to connect and network with Influencers

NEXT-GEN PARAMEDICS ON TRACK Students test their skills

FINAL year paramedicine students at Western Sydney University (WSU) have put their clinical theory into practice during a Mass Casualty Simulation exercise, testing their skills in a simulated underground train crash scenario held in the University’s state-of-theart 360-degree Immersive Lab facility.

Located at WSU’s new Paramedicine Building at the Campbelltown Campus, the 360-degree Immersive Lab facility allows paramedicine students to practice and be examined in a digital content generated environment with the use of projected images and recorded sounds.

Dr Navin Naidoo, Director of the Paramedicine Academic Program within the School of Health Sciences said the advanced purpose-built training facility ensures student-centred learning and provides a unique, hands-on experience in preparation for real world scenarios upon graduation.

“Our Paramedicine program provides students with the opportunity to put knowledge into practice by using large teaching spaces including simulation rooms, debrief rooms, and an Immersive Simulation Lab with control room to allow students to learn in group-based scenarios with the latest technology and mannequin patients to hone their clinical skills,” said Dr Naidoo.

“The innovative teaching facility incorporates hands-on experiences with real world scenario simulations to develop those practical, clinical and scene safety decision making skills essential for out of hospital care of patients of all ages

with health complaints ranging from minor to critical.”

The students participated in an hour-long immersive simulation exercise testing their knowledge and skills under the guidance of their educators, followed by a debriefing session to talk through the experience, reflect, and share their learnings.

Simulating an underground train tunnel, the lighting was dimmed, and the 360-degree immersive screen technology projected vision and sound to test the students’ senses and prepare them for scene safety considerations and difficult access scenarios out in the field.

Third year paramedicine student, Ebony Domanski, 20 from Oran Park, said the immersive simulation technology helped prepare her for working in diverse and difficult settings, as not every patient is going to be easy to access or in good lighting.

“Scenarios like this simulate the increased cognitive load that comes with real life cases. It’s the little things that make a difference, and in this scenario, it was loud, chaotic, and dark. It makes you stop and think about keeping yourself safe, because especially when there are children involved, it’s really tempting to take big risks to help people,” Ebony said.

“We commonly say that you can’t choose the jobs you go to on placements, so often these simulations are the only chance we get before the real thing. This is especially true for major incidents. Preparing and rehearsing is essential so that everyone understands their role if this was a job in real life.

Reading from a textbook and

doing are two very different things.”

Reflecting on her passion for helping others, Ebony says it was the paramedics who came to help her father when she was younger that had inspired her journey towards a career in paramedicine.

“I am a huge people person and I love helping others. It sounds cliche but it’s true. I had a lot of paramedics in my life growing up as my Dad has a chronic illness. I always admired the calm they can bring into a situation, and I wanted to be able to do that for others.”

“I’ve come to learn in the past few years that being a paramedic is about the people. It’s about making someone’s horrible day, a little less horrible. It’s about the conversations with patients who have lived longer and seen more than you. It’s about the people you work with and the support you can offer, because at the end of the day, all you have is each other.”

“For me, if I can be the calm for just one person, if I can give them the hug that they need, or even if I can listen when they need to someone to talk to, then my job is worthwhile. I am looking forward to being a part of something bigger and engaging in the next chapter of learning. This is the kind of job where the learning never stops.”

Western Sydney University’s Paramedicine program offers real world learning experiences to its students, with opportunities for supervised clinical practice with state emergency ambulance services, international clinical placements, and short placements in paramedicine, mental health, and community and primary healthcare.

NSW ambulances reach gender parity

NSW Ambulance has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first emergency service in NSW to reach gender parity within its workforce, with women now constituting over 50% of its personnel. This development is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that the workforce reflects the population it serves, promoting workplace gender diversity and fostering an inclusive environment. NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce praised the milestone, highlighting the benefits of gender diversity in healthcare. NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dominic Morgan expressed gratitude to the women who contributed to this achievement, emphasizing the importance of skills and experience in employment rather than gender.

Sleepout supports those in need

LOCAL communities in NSW participated in the 2023 NSW Vinnies Community Sleepout recently. The event aims to raise funds and awareness in support of St Vincent de Paul Society’s services. Over 60 participants in Western Sydney braved the winter night, hear from local Society members, and

support four Vinnies Support Centres in Harris Park, Blacktown, Emerton, and Penrith, aiding those at risk of homelessness. The Society has experienced increased assistance requests over the past year, driven by housing costs and rising living expenses. Donations for the event can be made at www.vinnies.org.au/communitysleepout.

School principals grapple with stress

AUSTRALIAN schools are grappling with a crisis in principal recruitment and retention due to stress, burnout, and increased workloads. Monash University’s Faculty of Education is conducting a three-year study, funded by the Australian Research Council, to understand how these challenges affect principals in public schools. The study will create a publicly accessible website to showcase anonymous stories from principals, shedding light on the emotional intensity of their work. Researchers aim to improve leadership preparation by addressing the emotionally draining aspects of the job, ultimately reducing turnover, enhancing teacher retention, improving student outcomes, and fostering social cohesion.

Data improved for social housing

THE NSW Government is enhancing transparency in the social housing waiting list by providing more current data. Previously, data on the waiting list was only published annually, rendering it outdated. Now, both the general and priority waiting list data will be updated monthly, offering stakeholders and applicants a more accurate understanding of housing needs. Quarterly updates on median waiting times will also be available, a significant improvement from the previous annual updates. This initiative aligns with broader NSW Government efforts to reform the social and affordable housing sector and combat homelessness and housing insecurity.

Research into food tracking apps

NEW research commissioned by MyFitnessPal, a global nutrition and food tracking app, indicates a shift in Australians’ protein consumption habits. Despite the popularity of expensive protein snacks like bars and shakes, the study found that Australians are increasingly opting for cheaper alternatives. A significant 33% of respondents mentioned reduced consumption of protein bars and shakes, while another 36% reported decreased intake of red meat, likely due to a 14% increase in beef prices from 2021 to 2022. The research also revealed that only 10% of Australians regularly track their macros, highlighting the need for better nutrient awareness.

Emma McKeon to open Parramatta Aquatic Centre New era for swim centre

FIVE-time Olympics swimming gold medallist Emma McKeon will join the City of Parramatta to celebrate the official opening of Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) on Monday, September 25

McKeon is Australia’s most decorated Olympic athlete with a total of 11 medals from the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, surpassing the previous record of nine held by greats Ian Thorpe and Leisel Jones over the course of their careers.

The freestyle swimmer said great local swimming facilities were critical to nurturing the next generation of Olympians.

“I grew up around the water, at the beach, the backyard pool and the like so my love of swimming started early,” Ms McKeon said.

“The brand-new Parramatta Aquatic Centre gives kids from western Sydney the chance to learn to swim from a young age right on their doorstep.

“The facilities are second to none and I am sure there will one day be future Olympians who can say they swam their first lap at the PAC.”

PAC will be home to a 50m, 10-lane Olympic sized heated outdoor pool, 25m, 8-lane heated indoor pool,

dedicated learn-to-swim indoor pool, spas, sauna, steam room, fitness centre and much more.

McKeon will be joined by Bondi Rescue lifeguards to meet the first group of swimmers at the brand-new facility which will open from 2pm.

Attendees will also be able to enjoy free ice cream and coffee at the venue on the day with a range of celebrations planned.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Sameer Pandey said it was an honour to have one of Australia’s greatest swimmers help open Parramatta Aquatic Centre.

“Parramatta Aquatic Centre is a world-class community facility so it makes sense to have a world-class swimmer like Emma McKeon poolside to help us celebrate,” Cr Pandey said.

“Our pools will support the next generation of Parramatta swimming talent from their first lap to their first swimming carnival and beyond.

“Having Emma here to meet the community could create the springboard our young swim stars need to really chase their dreams.”

PAC is also home to the City of Parramatta’s first all-abilities pool with ramps to enter the 50m and 25m pool and a level, beach-style entry into the water ‘splash and play’ zone. There are accessible change rooms as well as lifts and ramps to all indoor and outdoor areas.

The $88.6M project is being co-funded by Council and the NSW Government, which is investing $38.5M from the Restart NSW Fund.

For more information, visit www.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/the-pac

4,500 new homes at Castle Hill

CASTLE Hill’s Showground Station precinct is now capable of accommodating an extra 4,500 potential new homes following an amendment to The Hills Local Environment Plan (LEP).

The precinct previously had a cap of 5,000 dwellings imposed when it was rezoned in 2017 due to a lack of supporting infrastructure. Planned transport and other upgrades

are in place or progressing, with Sydney Metro now in full operation and upgrades around the station, including road improvements, now complete.

The Department of Planning and Environment will continue to work with School Infrastructure NSW to plan for schools in the area, and to address any additional demand expected in the Showground pre-

Public Notice

Proposed termination of Strata Scheme

No. SP 16744 being property situated at 30 Parkes Street, Harris Park NSW 2150.

Notice is given of an intention to apply to the Registrar General for an order terminating the above Strata Scheme and the consequent winding up of the Owners Corporation, pursuant to section 142 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 (NSW).

Any person having any claim against the Owners Corporation of the above Strata Scheme or any estate or interest in or claim against any of the lots comprised in the Strata Scheme is required, on or before 22 September 2023 to send particulars of the estate, interest or claim to Uther Webster & Evans, Level 16, 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

cinct because of the lifting of the cap.

Development applications and approvals are approaching the 5,000 limit –however, now that the cap is removed, the area could welcome 9,500 new homes.

The introduction of the Government’s reformed infrastructure contributions scheme on 1 October 2023 provides a framework for growth to contribute

towards further infrastructure demand and will allow funding for any additional infrastructure as required.

Removing the dwelling limit provides certainty for industry to continue investment in the precinct and removes uncertainty impacting current $115-120M contract negotiations by Sydney Metro and Landcom with a development partner.

rehabilitation solutions for our clients is what we do best.

Emma McKeon.

is a locally owned and family operated business specialising in pipe, ser vice and infrastructure rehabilitation via CIPP relining, throughout the Nor thwest of Sydney.

HOW AN AIRPORT SELFIE CAN RUIN YOUR HOLIDAY How to share the SAFE WAY

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

THE simple pleasure of posting a selfie of your boarding pass on social media as you depart on your holiday could lead to a major hacking of your identity and finances.

A recent survey shows that almost 85% of travellers are worried about being hacked while traveling. Cybersecurity experts from NordVPN said the risks of being hacked increased drastically for those who share too much information about their holiday online.

An “airport selfie,” or photo of a traveller’s boarding pass and a passport, is a popular way to let social media followers know they are going abroad. However, a boarding pass contains personal information that can help hackers to ruin the big trip.

“Even if only the barcode of your flight ticket is visible in the picture, hackers can scan it and find out such information as a traveller’s full name, reservation number, passenger name record and sometimes even contact information,” Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, said

“This data can later be used by the hacker to ruin a traveller’s holiday by cancelling their return flights, stealing money from their payment cards, or even stealing their identity.”

So, what can a hacker do with the information from your boarding pass?

Well, after scanning the barcode, hackers can use the data to get into a passenger’s airline account, steal their mileage points or change details for upcoming flights.

And if the passenger is not a frequent traveller and they have not collected many mileage points for criminals to steal, the hacker might call a traveller up during their trip pretending to be the airline representative and ask for credit card details to confirm a return flight.

Cybercriminals can also gather more information about their victim on social

media and then try to call the airline, pretending to be a traveller. Boarding pass information and other valuable details they may find online can help criminals trick even the most secure travel agency or airline company into sharing their customer’s information.

After collecting this huge amount of data about their victim, criminals can proceed to sell this data on the dark web or even worse, steal the victim’s identity, enabling the hacker to commit fraud like opening credit card accounts or making unauthorized purchases.

The good news is, there is a safe way to share vacation photos online.

“While posting your boarding pass is never safe, there are ways to share your vacation with your followers and

stay secure online at the same time,” Mr Warmenhoven said.

1. Always post photos after you are back from holiday. It’s better to hold off posting photos or information that indicates you’re vacationing while you’re away. Don’t let your followers know your home is empty at the moment.

2. Make sure your account settings are set to private. One of the most important pieces of information to know before you post anything online is who you’re sharing your information with. Make sure that your account settings are set to private and your posts are visible to your friends only instead of everyone on the internet.

3. Never share personal information on social media. Remove personal details, such as your home address and telephone

number, from your profile pages because there, they are easily accessible by anyone. Don’t make status updates sharing your location. And never ever post photos of your passport, plane tickets or any other documents.

4. Be careful with free public Wi-Fi. If you eventually decide to post anything online while abroad, ensure your connection is secure. Cafes, shops and even hotels offer unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Users need to be especially cautious when connecting to these networks because they are easily monitored. Hackers may position themselves as a Wi-Fi hotspot or use special software to steal data from unprotected networks. One of the best ways to safely use public Wi-Fi is by installing a VPN.

Tickets contain information that can be hacked.

Urgent Care On Your Doorstep: Western Sydney Opens Six Urgent Care Facilities

Western Sydney is now home to six urgent care facilities to help you access local, quality care for minor injuries and illnesses that might normally require a visit to a hospital emergency department. This means over 15,000 of you could receive free care for non-lifethreatening conditions at an urgent care local practice per year.

Built within local general practices, these six centres are able to treat health concerns such as minor fractures, sprains, wound management, mild burns and cuts requiring stitches. Each urgent care facility is staffed by highly-skilled health professionals, with referral pathways to onsite additional services such as pathology, mobile imaging (x-rays and ultrasound) and, in some cases, dental care.

Our Western Sydney urgent care initiatives are free to access and located across the region to offer you the best care when you need it.

Urgent care facilities are currently available in:

Auburn

Castle Hill

Marsden Park

Rouse Hill

Rooty Hill

Wentworthville

Not Sure Where to Go For Care?

The Western Sydney Urgent Care Line, 1800 371 372 , is a free phone line staffed by a clinical team who can assess your symptoms and direct you to the right point of care. This includes referral to a hospital, community-based service, or to an urgent care initiative.

The Urgent Care Line is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, except on public holidays.

Urgent Care Services are a state-funded initiative brought to you by the Western Sydney Care Collective. Medicare Urgent Care Clinics are a commonwealth-funded initiative.

WHERE AUSSIES ARE REALLY TRAVELLING Forget the pretentious lists

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

HAVE you ever read one of those lists of the best places to go next year in the flash, glossy travel magazines?

And have you ever shaken your head in disbelief as you realise you’ve never heard of most of them and the rest you wouldn’t want to go to anyway?

You know the kind of thing – yak herding in Outer Mongolia, kayak paddling at the North Pole or watching the moon come up over Palestine.

Some travel writers are, shall we say, a little bit pretentious and they seem out of step with the ordinary Aussie traveller who goes overseas more for a holiday or to see the ‘rellos’ than go on a expensive time consuming slog across some little known area.

True, there are adventurers amongst us and it is a ‘given’ you will find Aussies at every corner of the earth.

However travel habits die hard in Australia and the top 10 places to visit are mostly still at their pre covid place on the list. There were 968,490 international departures from Australia in September, a monthly increase of 87,630 from June, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

New Zealand was the most popular spot for a visit, with 96,180 arrivals recorded by Australia’s closest Pacific neighbor.

Indonesia -mostly Bali- and the UK were the second and third most visited places, with 86,160 and 66,480 arrivals returning from each country respectively. Overseas visitors coming here

USA, Fiji, India, Singapore, Thailand, Italy and Vietnam rounded out the top 10.

All of these countries had more Australians return from them than they did in June.

During the 2021-2022 financial year, New Zealand continued to be the leading destination country for Australians travelling overseas, accounting for 195,370 trips in total.

And despite the allure of the yak herds in full flight, the most popular reason for travel – accounting for almost half of all trips – was “visiting friends and or relatives”.

The average trip was 19 days long. The stats from the ABS take into account the number of international border crossings rather than the exact number of travellers.

So, what about overseas visitors coming here? Well, A total of 325,680 short-term trips of visitors in Australia were recorded in July, an increase of 306,960 compared with the corresponding month of the previous year

In fact, the number of trips for July was lower than in July 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic halted international travel in and out of the country.

New Zealand was the largest source country for visitors to Australia, accounting for 24% of all arrivals in July this year.

The USA and UK took out second and third place, respectively sending 27,040 and 25,340 visitors to Australia. There’s one giant omission in a new top-10 of countries whose travellers plan to visit Australia now our borders are open - China.

China was once Australia’s largest inbound tourist market for both arrivals and spending. There were more than 1.4 million visitors from China pre-pandemic, contributing a combined total of $12 billion to the Australian economy.

This was more than one quarter of the entire international tourism spend - according to data provided by Australia’s peak tourism body, the Tourism and Transport Forum.

Now, that huge Chinese spend has fallen off a cliff, plunging 99.4% to just $76m in 2021, TTF figures show. Tourism generates $94 billion in spending and contributes nearly $34 billion to Australia’s GDP, directly employs over 500,000 people and earns nearly 10% of our total export earnings, according to Tourism Australia data.

Sources: Escape, ABS, MSN, Tourism Australia

Haunted Mansion feels like a lovely throwback to the family fun Disney films of old

BEN Matthias (LaKeith Stanfield), a scientist struggling with the death of ghost-obsessed wife, is hired by Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) to help take photos of ghosts in the haunted mansion she inhabits. What he doesn’t realise is that upon arrival, the ghosts latch onto him, and now he is stuck trying to rid the house of its ghostly presence.

Gabbie has already brought in a crack team to help her in this endeavour though, all similarly tricked into the task. Between them, Ben, Gabbie, Father Kent (Owen Wilson), medium Harriet (Tiffany Haddish), lecturer Bruce (Danny DeVito) and young Travis (Chase Dillon) will have to discover what has these ghosts worked up, and how they can save them

Directed by Justin Simien, Haunted Mansion is a pleasant little throwback film that feels like it has stepped straight out of the early 2000’s. Its mild humour bubbles along nicely, briefly interspersed with the occasional jump scare and the brief flash of heart.

Owen Wilson and Danny DeVito standout in the comedy sphere, both bringing their respective zany schtick’s to the piece. But it’s Lakeith Stanfield in the lead that really anchors the movie. He’s able to change it up so quickly between heartbreaking backstory complete with tears, and crazy ghost action antics, and funny asides, that it seems nearly miraculous.

Visually, the film is suitably gorgeous from a set design, and if the animation on the ghosts never quite reaches the heights you would expect, it’s not a major detractor from the film.

For fans of the Disney ride, the soundtrack will be a welcome addition, consistently playing on the ‘Grim Grinning Ghosts’ refrain.

PAST LIVES - FIVE STARS

Ultimately, the film probably drags on a little longer than needed. But there is a moment where Stanfield’s Ben recalls his grief that really cuts so quickly to the heart that you’re left a little shell shocked.

This is a completely inoffensive, fun time in the theatre, but it also has a sneaky little bit of emotional warmth that will suck you in as unsuspectingly as our lead gets sucked into the Haunted Mansion itself. It makes it feel like a much older movie; something closer to ET than the modern dearth of overly animated kids films.

Ben may have resurrected the dead in this film, but with it, Simien resurrects a dead art form; that of the entirely watchable, completely enjoyable, limited ambition family action comedy, and it absolutely works.

Haunted Mansion is a joyful little surprise.

Past Lives is a superb take on human connection, tugging at the heartstrings and leaving audiences contemplating their own pasts and futures

IN their debut major film, Past Lives, Celine Song takes audiences on an introspective journey that delves into the intricacies of identity, longing, and the immigrant experience.

As both the writer and director, Song crafts a narrative that resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression of heartfelt emotion.

The film, characterised by its poignant exploration of human connection, introduces us to a world where the past and present intertwine, revealing layers of emotions that remain hidden beneath the surface.

The story opens with two childhood friends, Na Young and Hae Sung who’s deep connection is drawn apart when Na Young parents decide to emigrate from South Korea to Canada.

A span of twelve years pass and we see Na Young, now going by her western monika Nora, looking up old friends from her childhood online. As it turns out Hae Sung has been looking for her too.

Their rekindled connection sparks anew but as is often the issue with modern romance the timing just isn’t right. Years passing again between these two are reunited, with changes to their individual lives, loves and identities.

This poignant exploration of human connection, introduces us to a world where the past and present intertwine, revealing layers of emotions that remain hidden beneath the surface. One of the film’s most compelling aspects is its ability to connect with the audience on a personal level.

The theme of identity, particularly in the context of immigrants or the children of immigrants, will strike a chord for many.

The film captures the complex journey of reconciling one’s heritage with the environment they now call home.

The struggle between the Western society they inhabit and the heritage they carry becomes a palpable presence throughout the film. Greta Lee (Nora) and Tae Yoo’s (Hae Sung) performances are nothing short of exceptional, breathing life into characters grappling with the complexities of self-discovery and belonging.

Their on-screen chemistry not only enhances the storytelling but also evokes a profound sense of empathy from the audience.

Lee and Yoo navigate the delicate balance between their characters’ cultural roots and the demands of the worlds

around them, creating a poignant portrayal that resonates authentically. John Magaro skillfully plays Arthur, Nora’s husband who enters in the latter act.

His ability to play a secondary man in this story of missed connection is not lost to the audience. Unlike conventional narratives he is not projected as an obstacle but rather a differential connection that was there at the right time.

Celine Song showcases a remarkable understanding of the human psyche, pulling viewers into a realm of infinite and relatable longing.

This debut venture into the world of major cinema is a testament to Song’s talent as a storyteller, leaving audiences no doubt eagerly awaiting her future endeavours. The visual aesthetics of the film only adds to the story.

The camera work and cinematography seamlessly complement and enhance the emotional depth of each scene. The film’s visual appeal is matched by its impeccable sound design, which adds a definitive and unique layer to the storytelling. Every sound, from intimate footsteps to a closing gate, is captured with meticulous attention, amplifying the audience’s immersion in the film’s world.

One of the film’s standout strengths is its ability to convey emotions through silence. Awkward pauses and unspoken words are harnessed with precision, allowing the characters’ inner struggles to speak volumes.

This emphasis on the unspoken adds depth to the relationships portrayed and invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences of missed opportunities and unexpressed emotions.

Past Lives is a refreshing departure from the often-explored narrative of lust, instead choosing to focus on the nuances of love, friendship, and the intricate emotions that accompany them.

The narrative weaves stories of missed chances and unfulfilled desires, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of melancholy and yearning that resonates for days on end.

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

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

Up to 1000km of battery range, retro looks for BMW Vision Neue Klasse

„ MATT BROGAN

THE BMW Vision Neue Klasse has been unveiled at the Internationale Automobil Ausstellung (IAA) in Munich this week, the concept model showcasing what “the next generation of vehicles from its core BMW brand will look like”, and in particular the eighth-generation 3 Series that is due in 2025.

Drawing styling cues from the previous iVision Dee concept – and indeed earlier BMW Neue Klasse vehicles from the 1960s and 70s – the Vision Neue Klasse gives an early glimpse of the Bavarian brand’s future styling and incoming technologies.

Stylistically, the Vision Neue Klasse features powerful wheelarches over aero-styled 21-inch wheels in a classic, cross-spoke design. The “almost monolithic” body is characterised by strong indentations front and rear, and a large daylight opening (DLO) that offers a “new aesthetic”.

The body is finished in Joyous Bright paintwork with a subtle yellow hue and is contrasted by black skirts and bumpers. The kidney grilles and double headlights are said to meld into a “singular transaction”, the latter able to interact with the driver via a series of animations.

Inside, analogue controls and hard

switches have been reduced to a minimum. Instead, human-machine interaction takes place through the personalisable BMW Panoramic Vision central display and via steering-wheel mounted and voice controls.

The iDrive controller is retained on the centre console while a head-up display provides vital driving information.

BMW says the four-seat cabin is completely free of decorative chrome and

leather, helping to further optimise the car’s carbon footprint.

Likely to be badged as the i3 and sold alongside petrol- and diesel-powered 3 Series variants, GoAuto understands the Neue Klasse will ride on all-new underpinnings, leaving the ICE variants to continue using the current seventh-generation car’s platform.

BMW said the Vision Neue Klasse embodies a clear design language with

expansive surfaces and “just a few distinct character lines”. It is styled to look as if the brand has “skipped a generation” from the current 3 Series, the design set to flow into other models as their lifecycles are updated.

The Vision Neue Klasse retains the brand’s famed kidney grilles and Hofmeister kink of the side DLO for a “distinct” BMW feel, while incorporating far more secondary raw materials and a resource-efficient production system that promises to reduce the model’s carbon footprint.

Although specifications have yet to be announced, it is understood the next generation electric 3 Series will be powered by BMW’s sixth generation eDrive fully electric powertrain.

The model promises up to 30 per cent more range, 30 per cent faster charging and 25 per cent greater efficiency when compared with its current contemporary, and forms part of what the brand says it’s the “biggest investment in the brand’s history”.

“The BMW Vision Neue Klasse combines our ability to innovate in the core areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity,” explained BMW chairman, Oliver Zipse.

“In this way, we are always able to stay two steps ahead of the future. The Neue Klasses is already bringing the mobility of the next decade to the roads in 2025 – and leading BMW into a new era.”

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO Know about fitness trackers

MOST modern fitness trackers are electronic devices you wear on your wrist to track steps, overall physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep. They typically work with a smartphone app or website that allow you to track your progress over time using graphs and figures. Advanced fitness trackers can also record heart rate and GPS related outcomes, like your route, speed and distance.

People can be active without using fitness trackers, but their self-monitoring features help you set realistic goals and track your progress. Self-monitoring is an effective behaviour change technique.

So let’s have a look at the evidence about these trackers.

1. Fitness trackers work in the short term

Basic pedometers (mechanical step counters) have been around for a long time and when people use them their activity levels increase. Today’s fitness trackers are essentially fancy pedometers. So, there’s little reason to believe their added features and functionality makes them less effective.

You can trust this article because it’s written by academics.

Of the few rigorous randomised controlled trials of advanced fitness trackers, most found positive short-term outcomes. For example, a study comparing people using pedometers to those using Fitbits found Fitbit users were 62

minutes more physically active a week. Other studies also found people using fitness trackers took significantly more steps compared with those in a control group, but only measured outcomes over a short period.

2. For long-term outcomes fitness trackers work best with other strategies

Too few studies have looked at how people use fitness trackers beyond three months to say if they work in the long term. Numerous reports suggest many people soon stop using them. Reasons include the need to repeatedly recharge and sync the device with an app or website.

More importantly, fitness trackers need to be part of an overall behaviour change strategy to promote a lifelong fitness habit. But this mostly doesn’t happen.

For example, one workplace study showed physical activity increased after 12 months when fitness trackers were combined with organisational support in the first three months. Support included educational information, goal setting, social support and team challenges. A high-profile study showed that when people were financially rewarded for using fitness trackers, this didn’t improve their health in the long term. However, such external rewards are not a strong behaviour change strategy, as they don’t increase the motivation needed to keep going after the incentives are removed.

So behavioural support is needed with fitness trackers to form healthy lifelong activity habits.

3. Basic fitness tracker functions are accurate

Several reviews indicate most fitness trackers provide valid and reliable measures of physical activity, for instance counting steps and activity minutes. Most users consider step counting as the most important function of fitness trackers.

But these reviews also indicate energy expenditure, calorie counts and sleep measures are less accurate. This isn’t necessarily a problem for recreational users as the measurement error tends to be consistent. This means you still can accurately assess whether you are making progress as the device always over- or under-estimates the same way.

4. Fitness trackers affect your mood

Some people report feeling guilty or naked when not wearing their fitness tracker; others suggest it may damage their relationship with their doctor.

But there are many studies demonstrating the strong positive effects of regular physical activity on mental health, including improved mood, quality of life, stress, anxiety and depression. While there is no direct evidence, it is likely the positive mental health effects of being active outweigh the potential negative mental health effects of wearing fitness trackers.

5. Fitness trackers are here to stay, despite media reports

A recent article highlighted the financial troubles for market leader Fitbit and others such as Jawbone. Sales are slowing and profits are down. This has many believing fitness trackers are a temporary fad.

We don’t think this will happen; the global wearables market is forecast to grow to more than US$34 billion a year by 2019. More importantly, fitness trackers are still evolving rapidly, with different brands developing new models boasting improved features and performance. It is difficult to stay on top as market leader in a dynamic and quickly changing environment.

Health professionals are also willing to use fitness trackers for specific patient groups, like people recovering from breast cancer or having haemodialysis. This demonstrates the potential for trackers to be integrated into the health care system.

Authors: Corneel Vandelanotte: Professorial Research Fellow: Physical Activity and Health, CQUniversity Australia. Stephanie Alley: Postdoctoral research fellow, CQUniversity Australia.www. theconversation..com.au

Jobs

Project Manager

–

Fire Services Location: Sydney, NSW

Control Fire Protection is currently seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Project Manager with previous fire services experience to join our growing team.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage Council fire orders and ensure compliance.

2. Conduct site meetings and liaise effectively with clients, team members, and other stakeholders.

3. Manage and deliver major projects ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

4. Liaise with staff and contractors, ensuring efficient and effective communication throughout all project stages.

5. Prepare detailed quotes and proposals, accurately reflecting project scope and costs.

Key Requirements

1. Previous experience in a project management role within the fire services industry.

2. Thorough understanding of various fire systems and the relevant standards and regulations.

3. Proven experience in project planning and budget management.

4. Strong ability to identify potential project risks and develop effective mitigation strategies.

5. Excellent communication skills with the ability to liaise effectively with a variety of stakeholders.

6. Proven problem-solving skills

Seeking an Experienced Scheduler / Works Co-ordinator

with the ability to identify issues and develop effective solutions.

7. Experience in overseeing quality control processes and ensuring all work meets necessary standards and regulations.

8. Demonstrated team leadership skills with the ability to lead and motivate a team effectively.

9. Experience in vendor management, including managing relationships with vendors and suppliers.

10. Ability to create and present clear and concise project reports.

Benefits:

This is an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic and growing company in a key role. We offer a competitive salary, great working environment and the opportunity for career progression.

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are invited to apply by submitting their resume and cover letter outlining their relevant experience. Control Fire Protection is an equal opportunity employer and we encourage applications from all interested individuals. Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Address: 15/70 Holbeche road Arndell Park.

Working Status: The candidate must have the right to live and work in Australia

Enquire: Info@controlfireprotection.com.au | www.controlfireprotection.com.au

Join the Industry Leaders in Fire Protection Services

At Control Fire Protection, we are known for delivering worldclass fire protection services while offering attractive remuneration and work conditions to our talented staff. We are industry leaders in our field, not just for our exceptional services, but also for how we value our employees.

We are currently looking for an experienced Works Co-ordinator/Scheduler to join our dynamic team. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy coordinating and planning works, and have a knack for problem-solving, then we would love to hear from you.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop project schedules and timelines based on each job’s requirements. Coordinate the availability of resources such as materials, equipment, and manpower to ensure smooth project progression.

Maintain regular communication with all stakeholders, including clients, service managers, and contractors. Ensure everyone is aware of the work status, progress, and any changes.

Provide administrative support to the team.vAUtilise Uptick & Microsoft Office to effectively manage and track jobs.

Ideal Candidate:

We are seeking candidates who are not only proficient in the duties above but also possess a good understanding of the Fire Industry. Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills are paramount, as well as the ability to work effectively under pressure. Previous experience in a similar role is required.

In return, we offer a competitive salary package, opportunities for growth, and a supportive work environment. This is your chance to be a part of a company that values its employees just as much as it values its customers.

If you believe you are the right person for this position, we would love to hear from you. Apply now, and let’s explore how you can contribute to our shared success at Control Fire Protection.

• Must have uptick experience.

• Must have previous industry experience.

• Control Fire Protection is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals.

The candidate must have the right to live and work in Australia.

Info@controlfireprotection.com.au| www.controlfireprotection.com.au

Benefits of going digital

„ DALLAS SHERRINGHAM

GOING digital is all the rage in today’s ultra-competitive business world and it has showed no signs of slowing down because of the pandemic.

Recent research shows 69% of businesses recorded using one or more information communications technologies.

However, what does ‘going digital’ mean, what are the benefits and where can you get expert advice without paying a small fortune?

According to business.gov.au, the Federal Government business advice site, investing in digital solutions for your business can:

• Improve your business productivity.

• Increase the efficiency of your processes.

• Allow flexible work options in your business.

Having an online or social media presence for your business can also help your business reach new markets and improve customer relationships.

Some digital marketing trends include:

• More personalised and interactive online services - such as use of social media platforms to interact directly with customers, or providing a tailored experience for customers on your business website.

• Increased marketing through social media - in particular the use of short video marketing on social media platforms.

• Use of voice and ‘near me’ searches – making sure your website SEO is also optimised for these search methods will make your business easier to find.

The Government site has lots of good advice about going digital in your business, including the benefits, setting up a website and social media

presence, as well as cyber security.

However, the real gem for small business is Digital Solutions – The Australian Small Business Advisory Services program.

It works with small businesses to make the most of digital tools and offers broader advice specific to your business needs such as:

• How digital tools can help your small business.

• Websites and selling online.

• Social media and digital marketing.

• Using small business software.

• Online security and data privacy.

Digital Solutions is a seven-hour packaged service that offers three hours of one-on-one tailored support as well as group workshops or webinars.

Who is this for?

Small businesses with fewer than 20 full-time employees, as well as sole traders, can access services at the

subsidised rate. It costs just $44 for seven hours of support and your first interaction with the service is free.

Digital Solutions advisers hold formal qualifications in business or information technology related disciplines and have at least two years’ experience providing digital advice to small or medium sized businesses. The Digital Solutions program can provide tailored advice to your business.

Source: business.gov.au

QUICK CROSSWORD SUDOKU

7 Coach (7)

8 Part of a play (5)

14 Injured player carrier (9)

16 Preceding day (9)

18 US state (7)

19 On the sheltered side (7)

21 Great (7)

22 Attempts (7)

23 Cuts (wood) (5)

24 Land measures (5)

9-LETTER WORD No. 033

1 The Hoysala Empire ruled in the south of what country between the 10th and 14th centuries?

2 In the children’s cartoon Tom and Jerry, what sort of animal was Jerry?

3 US singer/songwriter Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr was better known by what name?

4 True or false: elephant seal bulls can grow to 7m long?

5 The Scandinavian Peninsula covers which three countries?

6 Which Australian band released a remix of the ABC News theme song in 2010?

7 Before Mick Malthouse, who was the coach of the Collingwood Football Club?

8 In Roman mythology, who was the god of love?

9 In what year did Frank Sinatra (pictured) release the song My Way?

10 Not including Australia, how many countries have a flag that is only red, white and blue?

O F

M O D C E

R

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

ACROSS

1 Hot springs (4)

5 State of comfort (4)

6 Operatic melody (4)

7 Flesh (4)

DOWN

1 Edge line (4)

2 Trim (4)

3 Eastern continent (4)

WORD FIND No. 033

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

GNAWING

MARMOT

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

No. 042

15 The voice of King Julien XIII in the Madagascar films, Sacha Baron – (5)

16 Jim Carrey’s 1997 fantasy comedy (4,4)

18 2013 drama starring Naomi Watts and Xavier Samuel (9)

20 Action movie starring Bruce Willis and his daughter Rumer (7)

21 Actor (pictured) who plays old school tycoon Reuben Tishkoff in the Ocean’s film series, –Gould (7)

23 Debate forum hosted by Jenny Brockie (7)

24 Star of the title role in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Michael – (4)

25 See 11-across

ACROSS

2 Big-budget adventure starring Alexander Skarsgård as the title character, The Legend of – (6)

4 2014 British drama starring Max Irons, – –Club (3,4)

9 John Ford classic starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara (3,5,3)

11, 25-down British actor and comedian behind fictional radio and TV star Alan Partridge (5,6)

29 Actor who plays Neil Armstrong in the 2018 bio First Man (4,7)

30 Actor who portrays Dryden Vos in Solo: A Star Wars Story, Paul – (7)

31 Superhero played by Paul Rudd (3-3)

DOWN

1 US reality series looking at plastic surgeries gone wrong (7)

27 Actor who played Harvey Dent in The Dark Knight – Eckhart (5)

8 L e TT e RS DEFERRAL INFLATES SCRAPPED SECLUDED

HIDDEN WORD

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

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

12 Dystopian series based on the novel by Margaret Atwood, The – – (9,4)

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations.

2 Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway’s (pictured) 2015 comedy (3,6)

8 Extinct birds

13 Actor who plays Dominic Toretto in the Fast and the Furious franchise, Vin – (6)

Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

15 Star of Shopgirl and Stardust, – Danes (6)

16 Gerard Butler action thriller, – Has Fallen (6)

17 Star of Steven Soderbergh’s Logan Lucky, – Swank (6)

3 Acting siblings Patricia, David, Richmond, Rosanna and –Arquette (6)

5 Series starring Esme Creed-Miles, based on the film of the same name (5)

6 English comedian, actor and author, – Brand (7)

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...

1. In which year was Cumberbatch born?

19 Star of 8-down, –Judd (6)

A e

S O Y

A e K

7 Nigerian-born star of cop show Shades of Blue, Dayo – (7)

O U

26 Black comedy starring Edward Norton as identical twin brothers (6,2,5)

28 Japanese actor who plays Hogun in the Thor movies, Tadanobu – (5)

S A L

22 Australian TV presenter and sports commentator, – Meadows (6)

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words –five reading across the grid and five reading down.

8 Musical biopic based on the life of Cole Porter and starring 19-across (2-6)

A. 1980

B. 1982

C. 1976

D. 1972

3. For which series did Cumberbatch win an Emmy Award?

A. Sherlock

B. Parade’s End

C. Patrick Melrose

D. None

10 Johnny Depp and Benedict Cumberbatch’s crime drama, Black – (4)

NOTe: more than one solution may be possible

14 American musician who plays Cinna the stylist in the first two Hunger Games films, – Kravitz (5)

2. Which prestigious school did Cumberbatch attend?

A. Harrow

B. Eton

C. Westminster

D. None

4. Which animated character did he voice on film?

A. Simba

B. Buzz Lightyear

C. The Grinch

D. Mowgli

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which other WNBL team did Shyla Heal join midseason after leaving the Sydney Flames?

2. How many WNBA Most Valuable Player Awards has Lauren Jackson won?

3. Which Australian Baseball League team did the Adelaide Giants defeat to win the 2022-23 ABL

4. Australian skier Danielle Scott competed in the FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup season in which discipline?

5. Which US state hosted the 2023 NHL All-Star Game?

6. Australian skier Matt Graham competed in the FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup season in which discipline?

Travis Kelce plays for which NFL team?

NBA basketballer Kyrie Irving was born in which Australian state capital?

Jason Kelce plays for which NFL team?

10. Cooper Connolly plays for which Big Bash League team?

11. In February, which WNBL team hosted a match that had a leaguerecord attendance of 7,681?

Jack Wighton plays for which NRL team?

13. Perth Scorchers batter Nick Hobson also works as what profession for his day job?

14. Olympic gold medalist Jakara Anthony was born in which Australian state?

15. How many tests did the Australian cricket team play on their tour of India in February and March?

16. How many Big Bash League titles have the Perth Scorchers won?

17. How many NBA teams has LeBron James played for?

18. Who coached St Kilda in the 2023 AFL season?

19. How many games do teams play during the regular season of Major League Baseball?

20. Who did the new NRL team Dolphins play in their inaugural match?

21. The 2023 NRL season has how many more rounds than the 2022 season?

22. Which two teams played the first game of the 2023 AFL season?

23. Sandown racecourse is located in which state?

24. Are the World Table Tennis Championship team events held on even or odd numbered years?

25. What does the position GA in netball stand for?

26. Played with a ball and net, Sepak Takraw is similar to which other sport?

27. In February, Kyrie Irving was traded to which NBA team?

28. The Sydney Kings basketball team logo is typically what colour?

29. Kabaddi, a contact team sport, is which country’s national sport?

30. Earlier this year, a shortage of alpine ash in Victoria affected what sport?

Travis Kelce

LeBron James

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

Enjoy life while staying connected to your Blacktown community, your local sports, your family and friends... every day.

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