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September 2026 | ISSUE 181

POOL SAFETY PRIORITIES

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www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

Pool safety becoming a priority

ITH warmer weather arriving across Western Sydney, councils are urging residents to make backyard pool safety a priority before the swimming season gets into full swing. The message is particularly important for families with young children, with permanent, portable and inflatable pools all presenting potential drowning risks. Penrith City Council has launched a seasonal reminder encouraging residents to check that backyard pools are safe, secure and compliant. Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said swimming pools provided welcome relief from the heat but also carried serious responsibilities. “Pools offer fun and relief from the heat, but they can quickly become dangerous if safety measures aren’t in place,” Cr Carney said. The warning echoed across Western Sydney. Blacktown City Council advises that

isolation fencing is legally required for in-ground and above-ground pools capable of holding water at least 300mm deep, including inflatable pools. It stresses that while fencing can reduce risk, adequate adult supervision remains the most effective protection against backyard drowning. City of Parramatta similarly reminds pool owners to regularly check gates and barriers, remove chairs, toys and other climbable objects from

around fences, maintain landscaping near barriers and ensure children are supervised around water. The council also recommends learning CPR and teaching children swimming skills from an early age. Liverpool City Council warns that faulty gates are a major danger. Pool gates should self-close and self-latch, never be wedged or tied open, while furniture, trees and other objects that could allow a child to climb over a bar-

rier should be kept away from fencing. Campbelltown City Council also advises residents that portable and inflatable pools deeper than 300mm require appropriate fencing and approval. It recommends checking barriers regularly and ensuring gates open away from the pool and self-close and selflatch. Under NSW requirements, pool owners must register their pools, comply with applicable fencing laws and display CPR signage. Portable pools capable of holding water 30cm or deeper are subject to safety-barrier requirements, while pools with a capacity above 2,000 litres may also require development approval. The message from councils is consistent: check fences and gates before summer, remove potential climbing hazards, teach children water awareness and swimming skills, learn CPR and, above all, maintain active adult supervision whenever children are near water.

Agents fined in covert property crackdown

SW Fair Trading has fined 10 real estate agents a total of $20,900 following a covert crackdown on underquoting and property sales breaches. Inspec-

tors from the Strata and Property Taskforce posed as buyers at almost 80 open homes over two months, also issuing five warnings and 16 education directives. The operation comes

ahead of the spring selling season and six months after the launch of the NSW Government’s Name and Shame Register, which has attracted 118,000 visits. The $8.4M taskforce is

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CONTENTS

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targeting misconduct and strengthening consumer confidence by ensuring property price information is accurate, transparent and consistent with agency records.

The Exporess readers to appreciate and engage with the physical, community, cultural and business environments of one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, Greater Western Sydney.

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September 2026 | EDITION 181 Published by the Community Broadcast Network. Publisher/editor: Michael Walls M: 0407 783 413. E: michael@broadcastnetwork.au Associate Editor: Alison Adams Account Managers: Julie Jackson: 0447 291 780 Linda Miller 0402 417 504 Contributors: Janakan Seemampillai. Printer: New Age Printing Design: Design2Pro, JuJu Graphics. General enquiries: info@accessnews.com.au

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www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

Student sexual health and wellbeing

ESTERN Sydney University has launched its inaugural SEXtember campaign, an initiative to help students navigate some of the most important conversations affecting their lives both on and off campus. As part of the campaign, a sexual health festival was held across the Kingswood, Liverpool and Parramatta South campuses this week, with a series of events and stalls focusing on healthy relationships, education, consent and respect in an inclusive and positive environment. The events were developed through a partnership between the Western Sydney University Sexual Health Working Group and the Nepean Blue Mountains, Southwestern Sydney, and Western Sydney Local Health Districts (LHD's). The Working Group brings together staff from across the University and health sector partners, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to

supporting student sexual health and wellbeing. The collaboration aims to improve sexual health outcomes for university students and staff, while also strengthening population sexual health outcomes across the Local Health Districts. Sexual education researcher, Associate Professor George Turner said that a holistic approach to sexual health mes-

saging is needed to improve outcomes. "A lot of conversations around sexual health focus on 'disease, disaster or dysfunction' but my research has found that there is a strong need for messaging to be more inclusive and broader than just a focus on STI's to be the rationale for this discourse," said Associate Professor Turner. Members of the Working Group

partnered with Western Design students to create a series of creative resources to visually communicate the important messaging in engaging and accessible ways. Bachelor of Design student Maya Goncalves contributed to the concept, which was intentionally cheeky and bold, designed to resonate with a youth demographic. “Sexual health awareness campaigns are often too clinical, just plain awkward, or completely out of touch with how young people actually talk about sex. SEXtember flips that narrative by using playful, relatable language to normalise safe sex practices, encourage testing, emphasise the importance of consent and respect, and demonstrate the benefits of staying ‘Hot & Healthy’," said Maya. The SEXtember program will allow staff and students to learn about referral pathways to local resources and testing clinics through sexual health promotions, training and resources.

Castle Hill dad claims $2.2M Lotto win

CASTLE Hill dad unknowingly walked around a multi-millionaire for almost two weeks before discovering he had won $2.22M in Saturday Lotto. The

Western Sydney man held one of nine division one winning entries in draw 4709 on September 5, collecting $2,222,222.23. He joked that swapping his usual T-shirt

and jeans for office attire on the day he bought the ticket may have brought him luck. The winning entry was purchased at Toongabbie Newsagency, which owner Robert

Chong says has now sold seven division one winning entries in six years. The winner said the windfall would provide financial security for his family.

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www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

HOYTS to bring SCREENX to West

HE rollout of SCREENX across the HOYTS circuit continues, with three new cinemas set to open before the end of the year. The immersive 270-degree panoramic movie experience will soon be available at Wetherill Park marking HOYTS’ first SCREENX location in New Zealand. The expansion follows the enthusiastic launch of SCREENX at HOYTS Broadway, in addition to the format’s ongoing success at HOYTS Blacktown. The new screens will give more moviegoers the opportunity to experience next-level cinematic immersion, with visuals extending beyond the main screen and across the auditorium’s side walls. HOYTS Group CEO and President Damian Keogh said the continued expansion of SCREENX across the HOYTS circuit reflects the strong response from guests and the company’s ongoing investment in innovative

big-screen experiences. “We’re excited to continue expanding SCREENX across the HOYTS circuit, bringing this immersive cinema experience to even more audiences across Australia and, for the first time,

New Zealand,” Damian said. “We’ve seen an incredibly strong response from guests, and these three new locations are another important step in our commitment to investing in innovative formats that give movie-

goers even more reason to choose the big screen.” “SCREENX offers a completely unique way to enjoy a movie, with panoramic views surrounding you in your seat. With scenes wrapping around you, it truly places you in the centre of the story.” CJ 4DPLEX CEO Jun Bang said that bringing SCREENX to New Zealand with HOYTS for the first time is a meaningful moment for the company. "SCREENX turns the auditorium itself into part of the story, and we look forward to welcoming even more moviegoers across New Zealand and Australia into that experience,” Jun said. The SCREENX expansion comes at an exciting time for movie fans, with a slate of highly anticipated blockbusters set to hit the big screen in the second half of the year, giving audiences even more reason to make their next movie a trip to HOYTS.

Serious concerns at Villawood detention centre

ERIOUS safety, security and welfare concerns have been identified at Villawood Immigration Detention Centre following an inspection by the Commonwealth National Preven-

tive Mechanism. The NPM made 15 recommendations identifying inadequate staffing, deteriorating facilities, illicit substances, violence and insufficient support for people with complex health needs.

Commonwealth Ombudsman Iain Anderson warned conditions posed significant risks to detainees and staff. Particular concern was raised about children detained at Miowera Village, with prolonged detention

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6 NEWS

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

226 new social homes delivered

ORE than 200 new social homes have been delivered across Blacktown and Penrith as the NSW Government steps up efforts to increase housing supply across Western Sydney. A total of 226 social homes have been completed across the two local government areas since April 2023, including 111 in Blacktown and 115 in Penrith. Another 63 homes are scheduled for completion during the 2026-27 financial year, comprising 35 in Blacktown and 28 in Penrith. The new housing forms part of the NSW Government’s $6.6B Building Homes for NSW program, which aims to deliver 8,400 new public housing properties, 21,000 affordable One of new social housing and market homes and upgrades to 30,000 projects at Blacktown. existing social housing properties across the state. Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Recent Western Sydney projects include North St Prue Car said increasing housing supply would give Marys, where five ageing cottages have been replaced more Western Sydney families access to secure acwith 22 new homes designed for seniors. commodation. In Blacktown, Homes NSW has redeveloped an“This is what rebuilding public housing looks like,” other ageing site, tripling the number of social homes Ms Car said. available on the property.

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering a record investment to build better quality public housing in the right places, close to jobs, transport, and essential services. “Increasing the social housing supply means more families in Western Sydney will have access to a safe and secure place to call home.” Housing and Homelessness Minister Rose Jackson said reaching 226 new homes represented an important milestone, but more work was underway. “The momentum we’re seeing in Western Sydney shows what’s possible when we stop neglecting public housing and start investing in it again,” Ms Jackson said. The Government says increasing social housing remains a major priority as Western Sydney continues to experience population growth and housing affordability pressures. The latest projects are intended to provide more residents with safe, secure and affordable accommodation while replacing ageing public housing with modern homes located close to transport, employment and essential services.

Seatbelt fines failing to change behavior

EATBELT fines have surged 2,357 per cent in NSW, prompting calls for a stronger public education campaign alongside enforcement. More than 132,000 fines were

issued in 2024–25 following the introduction of AI-powered detection cameras, with more than one in 10 involving people not wearing a seatbelt at all. Shadow Roads Minister

Mark Coure said fines alone were failing to change behaviour, pointing to 12,157 serious road injuries in 2025 and 244 road deaths so far in 2026. He called for targeted education for

passengers, parents, pregnant women and culturally diverse communities, noting passengers accounted for around two-thirds of detected seatbelt offences.

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

NEWS 7

SYDNEY ZOO SHARES REMARKABLE RECOVERY

Santan’s world first orangutan surgery

VER a year after undergoing a groundbreaking medical procedure, new vision released by Sydney Zoo shows Santan, a beloved orangutan, climbing, exploring and moving independently once again. The recovery demonstrates the remarkable long-term success of a world-first multi-joint radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure. The footage captures Santan returning to elevated platforms and engaging more actively with enrichment activities following treatment for chronic pain caused by severe arthritis. His ongoing recovery highlights the potential for innovative veterinary care to significantly improve quality of life for animals living with chronic conditions. Prior to treatment, Santan's arthritis had significantly limited his mobility, affecting his ability to climb, forage and interact within his habitat. Today, keepers report a dramatic transformation, with Santan once again regularly using ropes and elevated structures, while showing renewed curiosity and engagement with his surroundings. Dr Kresen Pillay, Manager of Veterinary Services at Sydney Zoo, said the outcome from Santan's surgery has exceeded expectations and is a result of human and animal medical professionals coming together. "This procedure has given Santan a level of comfort and mobility we hadn't seen in him in years. He's climbing Santan the orangutan is recovering after world first surgery. again, exploring his habitat and displaying behaviours that reflect a significant improvement in his overall wellbeing. Seeing Santan thrive has made this collaboration across a wide team of medical professionals from different fields so truly rewarding." For the primate care team, the transformation has been deeply fulfilling. Lou Grossfeldt, Primate Manager at Sydney Zoo, said seeing Santan regain confidence and independence had been one of the most meaningful moments of her career. "Watching him climb again after such a long period of being unable was incredible. He's more curious, more active and far more engaged with his surroundings - it's like he's rediscovered parts of his personality that had previously been limited by pain,” said Lou. “We are proud of the robust welfare system we have in place at Sydney Zoo, where the needs of our animals are always the highest priority." The procedure adapted radiofrequency ablation - a pain management technique commonly used in human medicine - for use in a great ape, requiring close collaboration between veterinary specialists and orthopaedic surgeons. Dr Paul Thornton-Bott, who assisted with the operation, said the case demonstrates how advances in human healthcare can translate into improvements for wildlife. "Applying this technology to a great ape required careful planning and expertise across multiple disciplines. The results highlight the potential beyond Santan for innovative treatments that could significantly improve quality of life for other great apes in human care," he said. Sydney Zoo says Santan's recovery reflects its ongoing commitment to proactive animal healthcare, helping animals living with chronic conditions continue to live comfortably and express natural behavior. The new footage of Santan climbing and interacting confidently throughout his habitat is a powerful example of how advanced veterinary medicine can transform outcomes for animals in human care.

About Sydney Zoo Sydney Zoo opened on December 6th, 2019, and is a world class zoo in the heart of Western Sydney. Home to over 150 species across five precincts, Sydney Zoo has fast become one of Sydney’s most popular attractions. Sydney Zoo offers an immersive guest experience that connects people with wildlife from around the world, while promoting conservation and Aboriginal culture through its Bungarribee Dreaming experience. Sydney Zoo is located off the Great Western Highway in Bungarribee, 40 minutes from the CBD.

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NEWS 9

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

Aussies hold home ownership dream

USTRALIANS remain determined to own a home and achieve financial security despite cost-of-living pressures forcing many to make significant financial and lifestyle sacrifices, new research has found. A national YouGov survey commissioned by NGM Group, the customer-owned bank behind Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent, found housing and financial security remain among Australians’ biggest life goals. More than half of respondents (54 per cent) hope to achieve housing and financial security milestones during their lifetime, while 73 per cent consider home ownership part of being financially successful. Lifestyle and retirement goals were nominated by 41 per cent, with career progression, business ambitions, family and relationships also ranking strongly. The research found Australians living outside capital cities were 10 per cent more likely than metropolitan res-

idents to have already achieved home ownership. NGM Group Chief Customer and Digital Innovation Officer James Cudmore said regional communities were increasingly providing opportunities for people to reach their goals sooner. “We know the appeal of regional living has been on the rise, with diversifying economies, regional innovation and great lifestyle benefits delivering real opportunities outside of capital cities,” Mr Cudmore said. Financial circumstances remain the biggest influence on major life decisions, with 85 per cent saying their financial position had some or a strong influence. Australians are responding by changing their spending and working habits. About 56 per cent are regularly saving from their income, while 47 per cent are cutting expenses or making lifestyle trade-offs. Almost one-third are working

James Cudmore.

longer hours or multiple jobs, while 22 per cent have changed jobs or careers to help achieve their goals.

Despite these pressures, 62 per cent said they were prepared to delay important milestones provided they eventually achieved them, while 59 per cent said significant sacrifices had been or would be necessary. Younger Australians also remain committed to traditional milestones despite affordability challenges. Mr Cudmore said the findings challenged perceptions that younger generations had abandoned aspirations such as home ownership, family and financial security. “Despite the affordability challenges and economic uncertainty they’ve experienced, our findings suggest that aspirations such as home ownership, family, and financial security still really appeal to young people,” he said. The research is the first instalment of NGM Group’s Defining Moments series examining how Australians view major life milestones and the financial trade-offs required to achieve them.

Households urged to prepare for emergencies

USTRALIANS are being urged to prepare their households for disasters, with new Red Cross research finding 72 per cent believe communities need to work together more effectively to prepare

for and recover from emergencies. For EmergencyRedi Week 2026, Australia Post and Australian Red Cross are distributing disaster preparedness information to more than four million households in disaster-prone areas.

Research also found that almost 60 per cent of parents who experienced an emergency during the past year said it had noticeably affected their children. Families are encouraged to create an emergency plan, prepare an

emergency kit and discuss disaster preparedness with children. Australian Red Cross Director Nichola Krey said simple preparation before emergencies could build confidence and community resilience.

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www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

HILDREN’S dentist and educator Dr Bethany Fisher has launched Tooth Tales On Demand, described as the world’s first premium digital streaming platform dedicated to children’s oral health. Targeting preschool children in regional and rural Australia, the platform combines songs, stories, science experiments, arts and crafts and play-based learning with resources for educators and parents. Dr Fisher said the initiative aims to address poorer oral health outcomes and reduced access to dental education outside metropolitan areas.

End-of-life pathways could be better

GEING Australia and Palliative Care Australia have welcomed a Senate recommendation to remove funding and time restrictions from the Support at Home End-of-Life Pathway. The peak bodies say older Australians with life-limiting illnesses should receive clinically guided care based on individual needs rather than fixed funding periods or life-expectancy predictions. They argue greater flexibility would help more people remain at home, support families and reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and pressure on the health system.

Research detects counterfeit alcohol

DELAIDE University researchers are developing laser technology capable of detecting counterfeit alcohol, wine fraud and hazardous chemicals inside sealed bottles. Using Raman spectroscopy, the system identifies the chemical “fingerprint” of liquids through packaging, including coloured glass. Research has shown it can detect toxic methanol at concentrations well below international safety limits. Scientists are now exploring applications including wine authentication, pesticide detection in olive oil,

counterfeit perfumes and hazardous chemicals, with potential uses across food, agriculture, law enforcement and manufacturing industries.

Records of sexual assault need protecting

HE NSW Government has commissioned research into better protecting counselling records of sexual assault victim-survivors during criminal proceedings. Led by University of Sydney Professor Rita Shackel, the study will examine how often counselling notes are subpoenaed, their impact on survivors and alternative protection models. The research follows concerns that accessing counselling records can retraumatise survivors or discourage them from seeking support. Findings will be reported to the Department of Communities and Justice in June 2027.

The long journey of assistance dogs

SSISTANCE Dogs Australia is celebrating 30 years of providing life-changing support during International Assistance Dog Week. The organisation breeds and trains accredited assistance

dogs for Australians with physical disabilities, autism and PTSD. Each dog costs more than $60,000 and takes around two years to prepare. With demand exceeding availability, ADA aims to increase the number of Australians it supports by 50 per cent by 2028.

Call for ban on gambling advertising

AMILY First’s Lyle Shelton has called on federal and NSW governments to introduce a complete ban on gambling advertising across television, streaming, radio, social media, online services and sporting venues. Shelton said gambling had become increasingly normalised through sport, exposing children to betting messages. He argued partial restrictions were inadequate and compared gambling advertising with tobacco promotion, saying governments should prioritise protecting families from financial, social and mental health harms.

Bank’s digital feature a customer hit

ENDIGO Bank’s new Community Link feature has attracted 1,113 new customers since launching in April, combining digital account opening with connections to local branches. Around 70 per cent nominated a Community Bank as their home branch, supporting the bank’s community-focused model. Bendigo Bank says the uptake demonstrates demand for convenient digital banking while maintaining local connections. Community Bank Upwey and District currently leads Community Link registrations nationwide.

Public invited to comment on energy

SW electricity and gas customers are being invited to share their experiences as IPART reviews the state’s retail energy markets. The regulator is examining prices, competition, affordability and consumer participation, including the growing use of virtual power plants. IPART says energy prices have risen faster than inflation in recent years, placing pressure on households and businesses. Its 2025–26 Energy Market Monitoring Report will be submitted to the Energy Minister in November.

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Tourism 13

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

Showcasing a region ready for growth FAZILA FARHAD

ELCOME to our first monthly column with CBN (publisher of The Blacktown News). We sincerely appreciate their support in helping elevate the profile of Western Sydney’s visitor economy and our members. Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce NSW is the region’s leading tourism industry association, bringing together businesses, attractions, accommodation providers, hospitality operators, tour companies, clubs, and key stakeholders to promote Western Sydney as a premier visitor destination. As the region’s peak tourism advocacy body, we work to strengthen collaboration, attract investment, increase visitation, and drive economic growth across one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse regions. With the opening of Western Sydney International Airport, the region is entering an exciting new chapter. From its rich cultural heritage and multicultural dining experiences to major events, natural attractions, and worldclass visitor experiences, Western Sydney is preparing to welcome the world. We are also pleased to announce a media partnership with Community Broadcast Network (CBN), Western Sydney’s leading publisher. Through its extensive network of

print and digital publications, including Northwest News, Parramatta Times, Western Sydney Express, Hawkesbury News, Macarthur Advocate, and Blacktown News, this partnership will help showcase the region’s tourism opportunities, industry achievements, and future growth.

Supporting Future Talent We have recently teamed up as a ambassador of Western Sydney University (Friends of Western Sydney Initiative) to support student work placements across the visitor economy. This initiative will strengthen industry pathways, provide valuable practical experience for students, and help develop the next generation of tourism and hospitality professionals.

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As an ambassador for the program, I am proud to support this important partnership, which will deliver longterm benefits for both students and industry across the region.

Industry Forums Events and Tourism Awards From industry forums focused on hotels, aviation, business events, and tourism development to the delivery of our annual awards program, our mission is to position Western Sydney as a leading domestic and international destination. The Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2026, now in their third year, recognise and celebrate excellence, innovation, leadership, and achievement across the visitor economy.

The awards have become a premier industry event, bringing together tourism operators, business leaders, government representatives, educators, and industry stakeholders to celebrate the success of our growing sector. Research and Advocacy We recently launched our landmark white paper, Greater Western Sydney Unlocked, highlighting the region’s hotel accommodation capacity, conferencing infrastructure, transport connectivity, and the opportunities created by Sydney’s two airports and expanding public transport network. This research has been submitted to Destination NSW, BE Sydney, Premier Minns, Minister Kamper’s office WSI and local councils. Join Us. We invite you to join us in celebrating the outstanding achievements of Western Sydney’s tourism industry and to be part of the exciting future that lies ahead. More information: www.visitwesternsydney.com/ Western Sydney Tourism Awards 2026. Date: Friday, 16 October 2026. Time: From 6:00 PM. Venue: Western Sydney Convention Centre (WSCC), 81 Mulgoa Road, Penrith NSW. Tickets: www.westernsydneytourismawards.com.au/ More to follow next month. Fazila Farhad is Chair and Founder of the Western Sydney Tourist Taskforce.

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Digital Australia 15

AMA CALLS FOR URGENT ACTION

As AI deepfakes impact health

HE Australian Medical Association is calling on the federal government to act urgently on AI-generated deepfakes, warning the technology is being used to impersonate trusted health professionals and spread potentially harmful misinformation. Ahead of Scams Awareness Week, the AMA renewed its call for stronger protections in a letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, welcoming the establishment of the Office of AI and urging the government to prioritise its digital duty of care policy to help protect Australians. The AMA remains concerned that deepfake content is being used to impersonate reputable health professionals and expose patients to potentially unsafe health advice, yet there are no regulations in place to enforce the removal of this harmful material from digital platforms. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said a regulatory response that keeps pace with emerging risks and supports public confidence in digital health information is urgently needed. “Scams Awareness Week is a timely reminder that increasingly sophisticated online deception can have

real-world consequences,” Dr McMullen said. “Deepfake campaigns that misrepresent trusted clinicians can undermine evidence-based care, spread misinformation about prescription medicines, and encourage consumers to abandon clinically validated therapies in favour of unproven alternatives. “It should not be left to the clinicians whose identities are being stolen and misused to identify, report and

pursue the removal of deceptive content. The AMA supports a digital duty of care that places responsibility on AI providers and digital platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harms arising from their services. “This should include strong transparency requirements, effective safeguards against unauthorised and deceptive synthetic content, and timely takedown mechanisms for harmful deepfakes. We are calling on the gov-

ernment to move quickly to put these regulations in place to reduce the risk of harm to Australians.” The AMA raised these concerns with the Minister for Communications, Anika Wells, last year/, and has now written to the Prime Minister calling for urgent action on its digital duty of care policy and stronger safeguards against harmful AI-generated content. It recommends a regulatory framework be developed that includes: • Mandatory identification of the individual or company responsible for any online post promoting a medical product or service through a publicly accessible and designated contact point (for example, email). • An accessible portal for individuals to report fake, misleading or AI-generated content. • Unsubscribing mechanisms enabling users to opt out of unsolicited medical advertising. • Time-bound takedown requirements, mandating platforms to remove harmful content within a specified period after a complaint is lodged. • Appropriate enforcement powers, including the ability to issue infringement notices for non-compliance.

Liverpool uses AI to boost pool safety

IVERPOOL is using the “eye” in AI, with new artificial intelligence technology giving lifeguards an extra set of eyes on the water at Whitlam Leisure Centre. The drowning detection system uses cameras and AI to monitor swimmers in real time and alert lifeguards when it detects behaviour that could indicate a swimmer is in distress. The system has been introduced and funded at Whitlam Leisure Centre by Belgravia Leisure, working in partnership with Liverpool City Council to support safer and more enjoyable swimming experiences for the local community. Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun said the technology was an important extra safety measure, but would never replace lifeguards. “This is about giving our lifeguards another set of eyes, not replacing the people who are watching the pool and are trained to respond when something goes wrong,” Mayor Mannoun said. “Drowning can happen in seconds, so having technology that can alert our lifeguards to a potential problem gives them another tool when every second counts. “This is creating an extra layer of safety and reassurance in what unfortunately can sometimes be a dangerous environment. Safety is our prime concern at all our swimming centres.” Mayor Mannoun said this swim-

Rob Tomasums, Belgravia Leisure Area Manager NSW and Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun at Whitlam Leisure Centre.

mer safety was particularly important in Liverpool's diverse community. “Liverpool is the most multicultural city in Australia, and many people in our community have come from countries where learning to swim just isn't part of growing up in

the way it is here,” he said. “We know that, and Council is doing everything we can to make sure our pools remain safe places where families can enjoy themselves, exercise and relax.” Rob Tomasums, Belgravia Leisure Area Manager NSW, said the project

is an important investment in community safety. Council plans to roll out the technology at Michael Wendon Aquatic Leisure Centre (also managed by Belgravia Leisure), Holsworthy and the new aquatic centre planned for Carnes Hill.

Travel

September | ISSUE 181 | www.accessnews.com.au | Edited by Emma Wilson | travelwellwithemma@gmail.com

Slowing down in Stanley, Tasmania BY THE OUT OF OFFICE SISTERS (JORJA LEROY AND CANDACE GIBB)

HERE are some places you visit and immediately understand why everyone is talking about them. Stanley was one of those places. Recently named Australia’s number one History and Heritage Town by Australian Traveller, Stanley sits beneath the unmistakable Nut on Tasmania’s northwest coast. And after a few days there, we completely understood the fuss. For two corporate sisters used to rushing between meetings, Stanley gave us a very different kind of agenda: climb something, eat something delicious, drink something local, watch the penguins come home and, most importantly, slow down. And then there was the Bond Store.

The Bond Store The Bond Store is the sort of accommodation that makes you notice every single detail. Set right on Stanley’s original wharf, the building dates back to the 1850s and has been beautifully restored, retaining its original bluestone walls and timber beams while adding all the little luxuries you didn't know you needed. Fresh eggs waiting in the fridge. Local milk. Beautifully considered interiors and amenities. Gorgeous Tasmanian touches. A wood fire. A deep bath. And, as if that wasn't enough, a sauna tucked away in the courtyard. It felt luxurious without being flashy. Everything had a purpose and everything had been thought about. Sitting right on the water, the views become part of the experience. We could wander back after exploring the town, pour ourselves a drink and simply watch the light change across the bay. It was also incredibly quiet, which we quickly realised was exactly what we needed. At the Bond Store, we were quite happy to stay in, make breakfast, drink coffee and debate whether walking to the next café technically counted as an activity.

The Nut- when the chairlift says no You can't go to Stanley without tackling The Nut. The enormous flattopped volcanic plug rises 143 metres above the town and is its defining feature. There is a chairlift for those who prefer to admire it without too much exertion, but unfortunately for us, the chairlift was closed. So, we walked. The track is steep enough to get the heart rate going, particularly after a slow breakfast, but once at the top it is absolutely worth it. The summit circuit gives you sweeping views across Stanley, Bass Strait and the surrounding coastline. The town began as an important centre for the Van Diemen's Land Company, established in 1824, and its historic buildings and fishing heritage remain central to its character. We came down feeling pleased with ourselves. We also decided that if the chairlift had been operating, we absolutely would have taken it.

Whisky at Angels Share One of the things we loved about Stanley was how easy it was to turn an ordinary afternoon into something memorable. At Angels Share, we found ourselves looking out over the coastline with a local whisky in hand, chatting with the couple who owned and ran

it. There are worse ways to spend an afternoon. With big skies, rugged coastline, Bass Strait stretching out in front of you and The Nut looming behind, the landscape around Stanley is dramatic without trying too hard. With a Tasmanian whisky to taste and nowhere we needed to be, we finally settled into holiday mode.

wander down the road, find yourself in a game of pool and suddenly you're chatting to people who actually live there. For two sisters normally surrounded by corporate conversations, spreadsheets and meetings, talking rubbish over a pool table with locals was exactly the kind of evening we didn't know we needed.

Penguins at dusk

Why Stanley?

We had heard Stanley was a great place to see little penguins, but there is always a bit of scepticism when someone tells you wildlife will conveniently appear at a particular time. At dusk, we headed towards the waterfront and waited. And then they appeared. Tiny little penguins making their way back from the water, waddling towards shore as the light faded. We stood quietly and watched, completely absorbed. It felt very Stanley: wildlife, water, history and a town that still feels like a real community rather than somewhere that exists purely for tourists.

Stanley was ranked 17th overall in Australian Traveller's 2026 list of Australia's 100 Best Towns and took out the number one spot in the History and Heritage category. But rankings don't really explain Stanley. It has history without feeling like a museum, incredible scenery without the crowds, and beautiful accommodation and great food while still feeling relaxed and genuine. And the Bond Store somehow captures all of that. We arrived in Stanley as two corporate sisters who had promised ourselves we were going to slow down. We left having perfected the art. Our out-of-office was on. Our walking shoes were dirty. We'd climbed The Nut, watched penguins, tasted whisky, played pool with locals and eaten very well. And, for once, there was absolutely no rush to get back to the office.

Dinner, pool and meeting the locals That night we headed to the Stanley Hotel for dinner. What we hadn't expected was to end up playing pool afterwards with some of the locals. The town has a wonderfully unpretentious feel. You can have a beautiful dinner,

Visit: https://stanleybondstore.com.au bookings@stanleybondstore.com.au

Travel 19

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

A different way to do Queenstown? WORDS BY EMMA WILSON

Y husband and I had been to Queenstown before, so this time we wanted to base ourselves away from the town centre and use our accommodation as a base for exploring the wider Otago region. Here’s what we recommend. That’s the thing about Queenstown, you can come here ten times and have ten completely different holidays. You can base yourself right in the centre and spend your days shopping, eating, drinking and wandering the lakefront. You can come for skiing or bike riding, make it an adventure holiday, disappear into the wine country or simply use Queenstown as a base for exploring everything around it.

Explore Queenstown’s Surrounds We had a couple of days, so we decided to see how much of the surrounding area we could squeeze into a full day. Our first stop was Jack’s Point Golf Course, around the other side of the lake from central Queenstown. It’s worth the drive to check it out and send cheeky photos to your golfing mates, pretending you’re teeing off at this exclusive club. You can have a coffee and enjoy the views, and it was actually the barista who gave us our next recommendation. “You have to go to Ayrburn,” he told us. So that's where we checked out next, it's well worth it.

Ayrburn I’d describe Ayrburn as a scenic, historic precinct and definitely worth at least an hour wandering in and out of its collection of bakery, bistro, bar, restaurant and cellar door buildings, with low-lying scrub, water fountains and ancient trees. Ayrburn gets this so right, covering the breakfast crowd with families, an awesome kids’ play park, morning coffees and pastries, lunches, tasting paddles, ice creams and delicious dinner options. So much so, we circled back a few hours later for an early dinner on our way home. We’ll be back.

Arrowtown Our next stop was Arrowtown, and it was every bit as busy as we’d expected on a Saturday morning, but for very good reason. The old gold-rush buildings, boutique shops, pubs and restaurants sit beneath a spectacular mountain backdrop, and wandering the historic streets is an

easy way to spend a few hours. If you want to splash the cash, the boutiques are incredible. We stopped for lunch in the sunshine at one of the pubs and it was divine.

Arthur’s Point From there, we headed towards Arthur’s Point to eyeball the incredible view from Coronet Ridge Resort, the view is to die for and we drove up to Coronet Peak to see what all the fuss is about with this popular ski resort. I hadn’t been to Coronet Peak for 20-plus years, when I visited driving around NZ on a motorhome driving holiday with a boyfriend. At the time I was a snowboarder and we loved to go night skiing. I quickly saw that night skiing is still popular, the terrain is expansive and its reputation as a cool place for young people is still evident with DJ nights and a young vibe for group travel. This little Otago day trip was so easy. For us, it was tacked onto a week in Wanaka skiing with mates for my husband’s 50th, but it’s so easy to add a night or two and pick away at Queenstown and its surroundings.

So… The Accom? On previous visits, we’d stayed closer to the town centre action, and it’s a fun way to experience this stunning natural beauty of a town. This time, we wanted a little less action. Instead of being surrounded by bustling shops and restaurants, we headed a little further around Lake Wakatipu to Platinum Villas. This was exactly the change of pace we were looking for.

Space to slow down The villas are perched on the hill, close enough to Queenstown that you can still walk into town, but once you’re back at the property, the feeling is completely different. Instead of looking out at restaurants, traffic and people, our view was Lake Wakatipu and the mountains. It feels like you’re all alone in the region, and the vista makes you visualise Queenstown 200 years ago. Or at least I did, I love thinking about how areas were long ago. That became one of the biggest pleasures of staying there. Step outside and you’re on the lawn, with the property regenerating more native grasses out the front and drawing in local visitors such as ducks and birdlife. The villa itself was spacious and

incredibly comfortable, particularly because we had been travelling with friends all week and this was our final night together. We had space to breathe. On our first of two nights, rather than head back into town, we bought takeaway Chinese food, opened a bottle of New Zealand red and settled around the coffee table in front of the fireplace. It felt more like being in someone’s very comfortable holiday home. The décor was warm, with lampshades and comfy couches, and for families, I think this is where the villas really make sense. I pictured our kids running around on the front lawn burning energy before heading in for a bath and dinner, rather than being under your feet in the kitchen while you cook. And you can’t beat the lake view while you cook. It’s a proper kitchen, with a gas cooktop, full-sized fridge, island bench and everything you need to make breakfast, lunch or dinner rather than eating out for every meal. After travelling for a while, eating out gets tiring. It’s nice to mix it up. You can still easily walk into town, with the property around 1.5km from the town centre and 500m from the lake edge.

A very useful Queenstown tip If you’re flying out early, don’t be put off by a 6.30am departure. We left Platinum Villas at around 4am expecting airport traffic, but there was practically nobody on the road and we breezed it. We were at Queenstown Airport in just 15 minutes and back in Sydney in time for our daughter’s 11.30am rugby match. I mean… it’s all so painless! Visit: www.platinumqueenstown.co.nz

20 Travel

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

NEW ECO-RETREAT: THE CEPHALOPOD

Opens on Cocos (Keeling) Islands

USTRALIA’S most remote islands, The Cocos (Keeling) Islands is welcoming a rare addition to its tiny accommodation offering with The Cephalopod opening on West Island. Set among the palms and just metres from the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, The Cephalopod is a new eco-retreat hand-built by local couple Emma Washer & Pete Wicks who own the island's gallery café, The Big Barge Art Centre. New accommodation is a rarity on Cocos. The opening of a new property is a significant addition for travellers looking to visit the islands as the atoll can host just 144 visitors at any one time. The owners have brought the same creative,

hands-on approach seen at The Big Barge to their newest project, designing and building The Cephalopod themselves and giving careful thought to how - and what - they built. Far from sales yards and the likes of Bunnings, the couple repurposed what they could find wherever possible. Beautiful timbers salvaged from original island bungalows along with interesting washed-up beach timbers were collected and given a second life. Re-purposed interiors including a pendant light fashioned from a flotsam buoy, a woven rope welcome mat and walls adorned with local artist work, add to the pod's calming, maritime feel. A favourite is a large log that washed up on a sandbar in the Cocos Lagoon, likely having drifted across the ocean from Indonesia, salvaged using a portable mill and boat to be transformed into The Cephalopod's kitchen bench. It's an approach that makes sense on Cocos, where almost everything must travel thousands of kilometres before it arrives.

Sustainability extends beyond the materials used in the build too. A rainwater tank and eco-toilet are designed to reduce The Cephalopods environmental footprint, a considered approach to water and waste - important in a remote island environment where resources are finite. The result is an eco-style retreat that feels very much at home in its surroundings. The Cephalopod is quiet and private, with a soft palette of blues and greens, high-quality linens, handmade ceramics and a focus on simplicity and slowing down. Just steps from the property is the tropical landscape that makes Cocos so special. Twenty-seven coral islands form a horseshoe around a vast turquoise lagoon with white-sand beaches, coconut palms and warm Indian Ocean waters providing a natural playground for swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing, kitesurfing and exploring by bike. Only West Island and Home Island are inhabited and, with limited tourism and just two flights each week from Perth via Qantas, days here remain uncrowded.

For its owners, The Cephalopod is a continuation of their philosophy to create something unique and beautiful from what is already available, rather than buying more. It's a thoughtfully built, distinctly Cocos place to stay in a destination where new places to stay don't come along very often. Just like a washed-up nautilus shell, a rare but great Cephalopod find when you stumble across one! Visit: www.cocoskeelingislands.com.au

Films 21

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

The End of Oak Street - Review JACOB RICHARDSON

HIS throwback Spielberg-like dino flick will have you thrilled at the nostalgic vibes, dino scares and pacy, fun time in the cinema. Denise (Anne Hathaway) and Greg (Ewan McGregor) are going through relationship troubles. Their kids, Audrey (Maisy Stella) and Brian (Christian Convery) can tell. But all of that goes out the window when blinding lights transport them, and their entire neighbourhood, millenia in the past. One minute, it’s 1982 - the next, they find their little 80’s slice of suburbia invaded by dinosaurs, and they have to fight to stay alive. The End of Oak Street feels like a movie from a different era. And that’s not just the costuming (which is remarkably nostalgic with its 80’s vibes), or the setting, or the performances and dialogue. No, this film feels like a movie from another period. A time when a good original idea could get made, and find an audience. When movies didn’t need to be 5 hours long (this is only 1 hr 40 mins and flies). When you could just have a good time and lose yourself in someone’s imagination. Ewan McGregor and Anne Hathaway are great in this film. They play a struggling married couple who are forced into cooperation by their uniquely prehistoric circumstances, and both have moments to shine. Hathaway in particular takes the cake, but she has a lot more to work with given some of the events of the film. The dinosaurs are also rendered in fun ways. Sure, there are questions about whether the neighbourhood is too staged for the film, whether the

dinosaur behaviour is designed to keep our main characters alive, and how hard exactly can Greg swing that baseball bat. But if you suspend your disbelief and enjoy the film for what it is, there’s enough tension here to keep you on edge. Outside of a handful of minor side plots (the lesbian relationship for Audrey, and Brian’s bully saga, both feel unearned and unnecessary), the film keeps itself tightly on a single track and benefits

S AVE

from that choice. It’s funny when it needs to be, scary and tense in spades, and occasionally heartwarming. Above all, it feels fresh and original - and for a movie so steeped in throwback nostalgia, that’s saying something.

An absolute blast in the cinema. The End of Oak Street is a winner. Four stars.

WITH FAMILY SAVER SESSIONS Bring the whole family to the movies and SAVE! Cinebuzz members enjoy Family Saver pricing on select films before 5pm. Buy now in cinema or online at eventcinemas.com.au

*T&Cs apply. Online booking fee applies. Available on select family films before 5pm. Must be a Cinebuzz member. See website for full details.

22 At Home

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

BEFORE A LARGE TV GOES ON THE WALL…

Checks homeowners commonly miss MICHAEL MOUSSA

ARGE TVs are no longer just for dedicated theatre rooms. Retail pricing has dropped, screen sizes have grown, and it is now common for a customer to walk into a store planning to buy a 65-inch TV and leave with an 85-inch model instead. That is not a bad thing. But it does mean more Sydney apartment owners in particular are mounting bigger, heavier screens than the wall behind them was ever built to expect. Freestanding houses are usually less of an issue: brick or timber studding tends to give a bracket something solid to grip. Apartments are a different story. Steelframe internal walls make up a large share of Sydney's apartment stock, and a few checks get missed more often than people realise.

1. Not every wall is the same wall: The type of wall behind the plaster matters more than most people expect. Brick and concrete are usually the most forgiving. Timber-framed walls work well when the bracket lines up with solid studs. The harder cases are newer apartments and townhouses, where steel studs, shared walls, or limited cavity depth behind the plasterboard can all affect where, and how, a TV can be safely fixed. Before buying a large TV, it is worth investigating what is behind the wall rather than assuming it will go exactly where you picture it, without any issues. 2. Bigger screens mean more leverage, not just more weight: An 85-inch or 98-inch TV is not simply a heavier version of a 55-inch TV. The extra size creates more leverage across the bracket and wall, espe-

cially with tilt or full-motion mounts. A fixing method that is perfectly safe for a mid-sized screen is not automatically safe for a much larger one. 3. Frame-style TVs bring their own bracket, and their own constraints: Samsung Frame-style TVs are usually supplied with a proprietary Slim Fit mount, and it is not a simple two-piece system. There is a left and right bracket that attach to the back of the TV, and a separate left and right mounting plate that go on the wall, four pieces in total. Each wall-side plate needs to land on a stud in its own right, on both the left and the right, not just somewhere in the middle. That can limit exactly where the TV ends up on the wall, in much the same way the wall structure itself does. It is worth knowing before deciding on a position, not after. 4. Cable concealment and power need planning before drilling: Bigger screens usually give more room to hide cables behind the panel, which helps. But the cable often has to travel further to reach ports on the side or under-

side of a wider TV. Power points, One Connect Box placement (for Framestyle TVs), and cable length should be worked out before the bracket goes on the wall, not after. 5. Viewing height and soundbar position are part of the same decision: The best mounting height depends on seating distance, couch type, and whether a soundbar is being fitted underneath. Get this sequence wrong and even a technically perfect installation can feel uncomfortable to watch every day. The short version: A large TV can look excellent on a Sydney wall when the wall type, bracket, cabling and viewing position are checked together, rather than one at a time after the TV has already arrived. Michael Moussa is the owner of Easy TV, which has provided TV wall mounting and installation services across Sydney and Western Sydney for more than 21 years. More information: Visit: www.easy-tv.com.au/wall-mount-tv

Tax Debt Matters 23

www.accessnews.com.au WESTERN SYDNEY EXPRESS September 2026

HOW PERSPECTIVE CHANGES EVERYTHING

And not just with tax debt

er remission would have changed the shape of the problem first.

MICHAEL MOON

HERE’S an old line in medicine. Go to a surgeon, you'll end up with surgery. Go to a psychiatrist, you'll end up with pills. It's not that either of them is wrong. It's that whoever you walk in to see, that's the toolkit your problem gets solved with, whether or not it was the only tool that fit. In tax debt, the pills and the surgery are usually funding and formal process, a new loan to make the number disappear, or a restructure to manage it from the outside. Both can be exactly the right call. But neither one starts by asking whether the underlying debt itself can shrink. That's the piece that sits closer to what we do, remission and a payment plan that holds, and stopping any legal action from escalating further while that gets sorted. It's a different question to the one most advisors are set up to ask first. Most business owners don't realise this until they're holding two or three answers that don't add up.

Same debt, different outcomes Two businesses can carry the exact same debt, same industry, same size, and end up in completely different places within six months. Not because one had better luck. Because one saw that number from a single angle and one saw it from several. An accountant sees a compliance and cash flow problem. A lawyer sees exposure and risk. A broker sees serviceability and funding, refinancing it, consolidating it, borrowing around it. An insolvency specialist sees a solvency question and a set of formal options. Every one of those is a real, useful, professionally sound answer. None of them is wrong. Each is just running the

A conversation last week

debt through the lens they're trained and licensed to use.

The lever that goes missing without a negotiation lens in the room None of those specialists is set up to check whether the debt itself can shrink before anything else is decided. Remission, interest and penalties coming off the debt, can run anywhere from 20% to 70% or more of what's owing. On a debt of any real size, that's often the biggest lever on the table, bigger than the funding, bigger than the payment plan restructure. It's also the lever most likely to be missed, not through anyone's fault, but through absence. If nobody in the room is looking through a negotiation lens, nobody asks the negotiability question. Skepticism plays a part too. Business owners who've been burned by an overpromise elsewhere sometimes assume any mention of debt reduction is a sales pitch rather than a checkable fact, which is exactly what lets a real, sizeable reduction go unexplored.

This is also part of why funding tax debt has become a more common answer lately. Since GIC is no longer tax deductible, the true cost of carrying ATO debt has gone up, and lenders have grown more willing to fund it. That's a legitimate option in the right circumstances. But it still tends to arrive before remission has been checked, which means a business can end up financing a number that was larger than it needed to be.

Speed matters, but not the speed people think Business owners under pressure chase the fastest path to a number going away. What actually matters is the speed of finding the right solution, not the speed of clearing it. The right solution depends on the whole picture, the business, the personal debt exposure behind it, and exactly where compliance and enforcement currently stand. Move too fast toward the first option offered, and you can lock in a path before anyone's checked wheth-

I sat with a business owner recently, whose situation had gone further than we could help with. It involved a matter that required going to court with the ATO, not negotiation, it was beyond that now, so it sat outside what we do. We told him that directly, and pointed him to who it actually belonged to. He said afterwards that it was the clearest conversation he'd had in weeks. He'd already spoken to four specialists, and had no idea what was up from down or who to believe from those conversations. Not because he wasn't smart. He was. Not because he didn't understand his business. He did, he likely had some finance or accounting background of his own. It wasn't a knowledge gap. It was that four capable people had each answered from their own patch, and nobody had told him that's what was happening. Not because we hadn't tried to sell him anything, that's not really the point, and it shouldn't be the thing that earns trust. The point was simpler. We were clear about what we could and couldn't do, and specific about where the line sat. That's the actual issue underneath all of this. Deciding who to trust with a problem this size shouldn't come down to a gut read on who feels genuine. It should be something you can check. Does this advisor tell you plainly what's inside their scope and what isn't. If they can't answer that clearly, that's worth noticing before anything else they tell you. Michael Moon is Director at Tax Assure, Australia's leading tax debt negotiation firm. Visit: www taxassure.com.au

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