Parade Day has Blacktown buzzing in festival milestone
BLACKTOWN City Festival’s 50th anniversary was one to remember after thousands of people flocked to Streets Alive and Parade Day.
Four stages of entertainment, 160 stalls and the annual parade through Blacktown’s town centre kept visitors enthralled with dancing, music, rides, games and more.
About 2,000 people took part in the parade, a showcase of the cultural, sporting, artistic and faith groups that contribute to the community.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the event proved a fitting anniversary party.
“The thousands of people who enjoyed themselves shows the Blacktown City Festival is an enduring event for all ages,” he said.
“Staging an event of this size is no small feat and I want to congratulate the many Council staff and exhibitors who made it such a memorable day.
“Here is to another 50 years and more.”
ABC Radio Sydney and Blacktownbased SWR FM broadcast from Blacktown on the day.
The festival comprised 19 events through May, including Vibes by the Lake at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside, and the Dorothy the Dinosaur & Friends Show at Bowman Hall, Blacktown.
One of the highlights of the program, the Blacktown City Medieval Fayre, is still to come.
The fayre will go ahead on 30 and 31 August at Nurragingy Reserve, Doonside, after poor weather prompted its postponement. Tickets are available via blacktown.nsw.gov. au/festival
Blacktown City joins bold conversation on the future of Western Sydney
BLACKTOWN City Mayor Brad Bunting has called for greater planning reform and community outcomes to be at the centre of Western Sydney’s growth while speaking with leaders at a regional forum.
Mayor Bunting told the Property Council’s Three Big Cities, Three Bold Visions event at Parramatta that the NSW Government needed to support planning reforms that produce better urban design, sustainability and liveability, especially in response to rising urban heat and infrastructure pressures.
Blacktown City is committed to creating neighbourhoods that support growth, community connection and liveability. Mayor Bunting noted that strong partnerships between councils, government and developers are essential to achieving that vision, especially as planning controls continue to evolve.
“We are not just building infrastructure. We are building community,” Mayor Bunting said.
“Blacktown is one of Australia’s fastest growing cities, with around 450,000 residents today and a forecast population of over 600,000 within two decades. We combine long-term vision, committed public investment and a strong track record of delivery. That foundation allows us to plan with
confidence and support growth that benefits the whole community,” Mayor Bunting stated.
Blacktown City has secured more than $273 million through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program. These funds are backing transformational projects across the city, including the renewal of Mount Druitt Town Centre, new libraries and community hubs at Seven Hills and Mount Druitt, swimming and aquatic centres, the First Nations Cultural Hub, and the Leo Kelly Blacktown City Arts Centre. Together, these projects support learning, culture, recreation and connection.
The city is also working with Walker Corporation on the $2.5 billion Blacktown Quarter, a major redevelopment of Blacktown’s city centre, with new commercial, retail and public spaces. It will see a modern, and dynamic city evolve to serve as a catalyst for growth, investment and economic development across the wider Blacktown City area.
Council is progressing detailed planning for major growth precincts including Seven Hills, Doonside, Rooty Hill and Mount Druitt, supported by a $1.5 million Federal Housing Support Program grant. These areas are expected to deliver up to 50,000 new homes, helping to meet demand for
diverse, well-located housing linked to jobs and infrastructure.
“Council leads the shaping of our city. We invest in infrastructure, set clear planning expectations, and create the space for quality development to thrive. We’re not looking for just any growth, we’re focused on outcomes that deliver lasting value for the community,” Mayor Bunting said.
As we plan for this growth, Council is calling on the NSW Government to support planning reforms that enable better outcomes in urban design, sustainability and liveability, especially in response to rising urban heat and infrastructure pressures.
Council is focused on aligning homes, jobs and services with accessible transport. We are working with the NSW Government to confirm the proposed corridor for the future Metro link between Tallawong and St Marys, including identifying locations for new stations and master-planned urban renewal precincts.
Blacktown City’s participation in the event reflects its growing role as a central player in the development of the Greater Sydney region.
“Events like this demonstrate the power of shared vision and partnership to shape a better future for Western Sydney,” Mayor Bunting said.
Food and garden waste collection to make Blacktown City more sustainable
BLACKTOWN City Council is rolling out the biggest change to its waste services in more than 30 years by providing a new food and garden waste service to more than 127,000 households.
Council has begun delivering kitchen caddies and green-lidded food and garden waste bins to eligible households which will help divert thousands of tonnes of waste from landfill.
This waste will be processed at Eastern Creek Organics and turned into compost for farming and agriculture use.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said the rollout was a milestone in making the local area more sustainable.
“During extensive consultation for these changes, our community told us it was keen to have a food and garden waste service and make a positive contribution to the environment.
“Making this possible for the biggest council area in NSW is a mammoth task and a lot of careful planning of the resources needed to do the job has been required.
“I’m looking forward to seeing our community make the most of this opportunity so we can continue to look after where we live.”
In addition to environmental benefits, the new standard waste service will provide households an increased bin capacity of 140L per week to separate their waste.
The new standard waste service includes:
• a 240L green-lidded food and garden waste bin, collected weekly.
• the existing 240L yellow-lidded recycling bin, collected fortnightly
• a 140L red-lidded waste bin, collected weekly. Council will swap the existing 240L red-lidded bin for a new 140L red-lidded waste bin.
Residents may choose to retain the 240L bin at an added cost or downsize to an 80L red-lidded waste bin.
• up to 12 household clean-up services each year for bulky items
• 7L kitchen caddy to collect food scraps for the new food and garden waste bin, 150 compostable liners to line the caddy and information on the new waste service options.
The new standard waste service will cost $674 for the 2025/26 financial year. This is $40 more than the current, two bin 2024/25 service. Residents may choose a smaller ($571) or larger waste service ($788) if this better suits their needs.
The new service also supports the NSW Government mandate for all households to have a food and garden waste service by 2030.
Council will assess extending the rollout to more households at a later date.
To help the community use the service, Council is running an online chat to make asking questions and receiving answers more convenient.
The service is available Monday to Friday, from 3.30 m to 7.30pm, via blacktown.nsw.gov.au/waste
People can also call Council’s
Council has a strong track record of looking after our natural surroundings. Its environmental health team was named team of 2025 by Environmental Health Australia. In 2024, Council
was named Keep Australia Beautiful NSW’s Overall Sustainable Cities Winner.
This project is an initiative of the NSW Environment Protection Authority under the NSW Government’s Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy, and is funded from the waste levy.
Customer Service Centre on 5300 6000 Monday to Friday, 8.30am4.30pm.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting with one of the new food and garden waste bins.
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From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES
LIFE really does deliver some cruel blows at times. This week, two pieces of heartbreaking news shook me to the core. The first was the announcement that Prue Car MP, who bravely fought and overcame kidney cancer just three years ago, is now facing a new and equally daunting health battle: breast cancer.
Prue is a fighter in every sense of the word. She’s spent her life standing up for others, championing causes that matter, and serving her community with integrity and heart. She has never shied away from a fight, and I know she won’t now. But still, it’s hard not to question why one person - especially someone dedicated to helping others - should have to endure so many challenges. Prue proved during her last diagnosis that she is strong and fearless. It stinks that she has to go through this again, and so soon.
Prue, everyone at Western News is sending you all the love and strength in the world, your family and the entire community is standing right beside you.
The second gut-wrenching news this week involves a family I’ve come to know through my work - the family of Bobby, affectionately known to many as Bobby the Brave. A decade ago, whilst his parents were on their honeymoon, Bobby was just a baby when he was beaten so badly that he was left with catastrophic, lifelong injuries. Over the years, I’ve written many stories on his progress, each one difficult to pen as the reality of what happened to him is too horrific to comprehend.
This week I read that the person responsible - the individual who inflicted those unimaginable injuries - has been flagged for potential release within the next 12 months. It is unfathomable. This poor excuse for a human being left a trail of destruction that Bobby and his family must live with every single day. Despite being a fun-loving happy family, Bobby’s injuries mean their reality is marred with emotional scars that will never fully heal. And now, they must endure the added trauma of knowing that the perpetrator may walk free after serving just over ten years.
Surely, commonsense must prevail. This is not someone who should be living among us. The consequences Bobby has to endure are life-long. Justice should reflect that.
I have no doubt the strength, courage and love that shines through in both of the above families will see them through these tough challenges. I just wish life was fairer sometimes and they didn’t have to constantly navigate their way through minefields.
Palliative Care harpist brings light in the toughest times
AS beloved patients near end of life, harpist Clare Steward, brings music to the their ears.
The certified healthcare musician plays the harp each Thursday for Palliative Care patients, families and staff at Mount Druitt Hospital in Western Sydney Local Health District.
Clare says often when the very first note is struck the people in the room will start to cry.
“It’s really important to understand that those tears are already there.
“People can have really big
responses to music but the emotion is already exists and it’s okay to share that emotion with the people in the room.”
The musician says she is honoured to be invited into people’s lives during such a private time.
“My work is about providing support for what is happening in the moment.
“It’s not about what the person might need moving forward or what has happened in the past, it’s about what is happening now and supporting that.”
Western Sydney University Chancellor honoured with Australia’s highest civilian award
WESTERN Sydney University warmly congratulates Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott, who has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia as part of the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours.
This honour – the highest in the Australian Honours system –recognises Professor Westacott’s exceptional leadership and distinguished service to business, public policy, and higher education.
The announcement comes as Professor Westacott joins the University community in celebrating Autumn Graduation, which began on Saturday. More than 4,000 proud graduates will receive their degrees during this period, surrounded by their families, friends, and supporters.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, commended Chancellor Professor Westacott’s profound impact on the institution and the region it serves.
“On behalf of the Western Sydney University community, I offer my congratulations to Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AC on this significant national honour,” said Professor Williams.
“This recognition reflects her unwavering commitment to the transformation of this region and the
mission of this University. Professor Westacott has been a driving force behind Western Sydney University’s role as an anchor institution serving one of Australia’s most sociallydiverse, culturally-vibrant and economically-important regions, and as a champion of the transformative power of higher education.”
One of the country’s most prominent and highly regarded public figures, Professor Westacott is the University’s first female Chancellor and the fourth Chancellor in the
University’s history.
Her distinguished career spans more than four decades, with senior leadership roles across both the private and public sectors, including her tenure as Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia.
Reflecting on the honour, Professor Jennifer Westacott AC said she was deeply humbled.
“It’s an incredible privilege to be recognised alongside some of the most esteemed leaders across the country. I was honoured to be named
the first woman Chancellor of Western Sydney University, a university that embodies fairness and equity,” said Professor Westacott.
“Growing up in a family with limited means has shaped my lifelong passion for access and inclusion when it comes to education. Education is the great enabler, the great equaliser, and my mission continues to be ensuring that every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.
“Western Sydney is the heart of Australia’s diversity, and our University is proud to stand with this community, helping to shape the future through education, opportunity and entrepreneurship.”
For more information about the King’s Birthday Honours for 2025, please visit the webpage.
The 2025 Blacktown Shorts Film Festival is seeking short film proposals!
THE award-winning Blacktown Shorts Film Festival is back and is calling for short film proposals from western Sydney filmmakers.
For the second year in a row, Blacktown Arts are partnering with Sydney Opera House to premiere 3 new short film commissions under their iconic sails.
Blacktown Shorts Film Festival offers filmmakers funding to make new work, industry mentorship, professional development and screening opportunities. The program provides a platform for creatives to share their voices, develop their skills and advance their practice in the film industry.
Successful filmmaking teams will receive up to $7,000 to produce their proposed short film.
This year Festival Curator, Vonne Patiag, alongside a newly established Associate Curator will work collaboratively with Blacktown Arts to oversee the curatorial and selection process. They will also brief and liaise with the successful filmmaking teams and provide logistical and producing support.
Blacktown City Mayor, Brad Bunting said ‘Blacktown Shorts Film Festival is a celebration of creativity, talent and bold storytelling from the heart of western Sydney. We’re proud to support a program that not only gives emerging filmmakers the chance to develop their craft but also connect them with audiences on major national stages, from the Sydney Opera House to various film festivals. Western Sydney stories matter. They resonate, they connect, and they continue to shape the cultural voice of our city. This festival reflects our city’s creativity and Council’s commitment to supporting local voices in film’
Blacktown Shorts Film Festival is a recurring screen program running since 2019. In 2024 the program was presented at the iconic Sydney Opera House to a sold-out audience, and later that year also won the 2024 fbi.radio SMAC award, for best arts program. A number of previously commissioned Blacktown Shorts Film Festival filmmakers have
Sydney Film Festival, Pasifika Film Fest and Made in the West Film Festival.
Behind the scenes of ‘This Town Talks’. Photography by Nicole Cadelina, 2024 Blacktown Shorts Film Festival filmmaker.
Prue Car takes time out to fight breast cancer
BY KERRIE DAVIES
DEPUTY Premier and Member for Londonderry, Prue Car has announced the sad news that she has once again been diagnosed with cancer, this time in the breast. Ms Car battled kidney cancer just three years ago.
“Over the weekend I informed the Premier that, for health reasons, I will be taking personal leave for an undetermined period of time,” Ms Car said.
“A recent screening has detected breast cancer, and I will now begin immediate treatment.
“Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery — and so am I. I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again. Testing has confirmed this is unrelated to my previous diagnosis.
“I look forward to returning to the role I’ve cherished since our government took office in March 2023 — a role I absolutely love.
“While I undergo treatment and recovery, my colleague Courtney Houssos has kindly agreed to act as Minister for Education and Early Learning and the Minister for Western Sydney in my place. The vital work of rebuilding our state’s education system will continue without pause.
“To the wonderful constituents I represent in Londonderry, my office doors are always open to
assist you with anything you need.
“Breast cancer screenings are vital for early detection and treatment, and I strongly encourage all women to stay up to date with their checks. I am extremely grateful for early detection and to the incredible people who work in the NSW Health system. They are nothing short of extraordinary.
“I want to thank the Premier and all my Parliamentary colleagues for their unwavering support and look forward to being back as soon as possible.”
Premier Chris Minns outlined his support for Ms Car as she faces the battle ahead.
“The thoughts of the entire Government are with our colleague and our friend Prue as she begins treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis,” Mr Minns said.
“I know Prue well. She is a fighter, and I know she will face this challenge with the same determination and grace that she brings to everything she does.
“I fully support her decision to take the time she needs to focus on her health and recovery, and I know she will be supported by expert care and the love of her family, friends, and colleagues.
“I also echo her important message about early
detection and encourage everyone to stay on top of their health checks.
“I have asked Courtney Houssos to act as the Minister for Education and Early Learning and the Minister for Western Sydney until Prue returns.
“Prue remains as the Deputy Premier of NSW, and we look forward to welcoming her back when she’s ready.”
Messages of support flooded social media and news rooms across the state.
“Words can’t really describe the sheer amount of respect I have for Prue Car,” Penrith Councillor Garion Thain said. “She’s one of the biggest fighters I’ve ever met, and once she’s fought this I’m looking forward to seeing her back out again.”
Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said everyone was saddened to hear the news.
“In true Prue style she has a message for community about early detection and encourages everyone to stay on top of their health checks,” Mrs McKeown said.
“We know Prue is a true fighter and much loved by her friends and community.
We wish her and the family all the best for a speedy recovery as she begins treatment.”
Wedded to the service as couple recognised for 50 years of volunteering
JAN and John Graham have been volunteering at Mount Druitt Hospital for more than 50 years, joining in 1973.
They are just some of the incredible volunteers recognised during National Volunteer Week at our Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.
The couple, now in their 80’s, recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
“We enjoy volunteering at the hospital, we get to meet nice people and the staff are lovely,” Jan said.
When asked what’s the secret for living and working together, John says he does as he’s told, and Jan said she’s patient.
Volunteering at the hospital gives us something to think about and gets us up in the morning, Jan said. “ “
That altruistic quality flows through the family line, with John and Jan’s son Scott, also volunteering for the hospital Auxiliary as the Vice President.
Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals (BMDH) celebrated National Volunteer Week by acknowledging the time and energy our devoted volunteers give to helping
our patients, communities, and staff.
BMDH Acting General Manager Kelly Watson said the impact of volunteers like Jon and Jan was immeasurable.
“I’m grateful that Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals has such a kind and caring group of people who work tirelessly to help our patients and staff,” Kelly said.
“Your work reminds us that healing does not just happen from medicine and that it happens through kindness, a smile, and interactions,” Kelly said.
Janette Delia began volunteering at Blacktown Hospital as a way finder and dialysis volunteer started in 2005.
“I am not a person who can sit around and watch movies I want to be out there doing something constructive and helping people,” Janette said.
“It’s so nice when people come
back and thank us and I hope I’m here for the next 20 years,” Janette said.
The longest serving Pink Lady at Blacktown Hospital, Betty Starkey was recognised for an extraordinary 45 years of service.
Teddy Kubica celebrated 20 years of service, as did Wayfinder/Dialysis volunteer Janette Delia.
Congratulations to all our longserving volunteers from Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals: 15 years service: Neil Clissold, Cardiac Catheter Lab 10 years service:
• Blacktown Hospital Pastoral Care: Hector Alimpia, Grant Atkins, Maurice Bru, Marie Celestin, Len Cruz, Rosalia Murciano, Linda Ranee and Teresita Sebastian.
• Blacktown Hospital Cardio Coronary Care Administration: Beverley Jeffery
• Mount Druitt Hospital Auxiliary: John Graham, Scott Graham and Gail Shadbolt
• Mount Druitt Hospital KIOSK: Margaret Smith and Anna Whitmore 5 years of service:
• Blacktown Hospital Pastoral Care volunteers: Akisi Allison, Rodel Baduria, Tara Bamrah, Sobashini Hasthanayake, Robert Hayes and Luke Thomson.
• Mount Druitt Hospital Palliative Care volunteer: Raymond Baldacchino
If you’re interested in volunteering at Blacktown or Mount Druitt Hospitals, please click here for more information.
Preventing burns in children this winter
AS winter sets in, parents and carers across New South Wales are being urged to take extra care to prevent burn injuries in children, with alarming new data revealing more than 400 children required treatment for scalds from hot food or liquids in 2024 alone.
The Children’s Hospital at Westmead’s paediatric burns unit treated hundreds of children last year, most commonly for injuries caused by hot drinks like tea and coffee, spills from saucepans and kettles, and hot foods such as instant noodles. An additional 48 children sustained contact burns from hot surfaces including stoves, cooktops and barbecues.
Already in 2025, more than 120 children have required specialist care for similar injuries.
The increasing use of fire pits and outdoor heaters has also prompted renewed warnings from health and safety experts. Children should be kept well clear of open flames—even after a fire is extinguished—as the ground can retain heat for long periods.
“Young children are curious, and often little hands touch and grab at hot objects without realising the danger,” said NSW Health Minister Ryan Park. “These accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.”
Dr Torey Lawrence, Head of the Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, stressed the severity of such injuries. “Hot food and drinks that may feel safe for an adult can cause serious burns to a child,” Dr Lawrence said. “Children’s skin is thinner and more vulnerable. Even a small amount
of hot liquid can lead to deep, severe burns.”
Children under two are particularly at risk due to their delicate skin, which burns more quickly and deeply than adult skin.
Experts say prevention is key, with simple actions making a big difference. These include:
• Keeping hot food and drinks out of reach of children
• Setting household hot water to a maximum of 50°C
• Always serving hot food at a table
• Draining excess hot liquid before serving meals to children
KidSafe NSW Executive Officer Christine Erskine emphasised the importance of correct first aid. “We want people to instinctively know
what to do if there is an accident,” she said. “Use 20 minutes of cool running water and never apply home remedies like ice, toothpaste or butter.”
Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW Jeremy Fewtrell added: “Every winter we see an increase in house fires that lead to burn injuries. Knowing how to prevent these and how to respond quickly when they occur is essential.”
National Burns Awareness Month, held each June, promotes burn injury prevention and correct first aid. More information can be found on the SCHN Kids Health Promotion website and www.kidsafensw.org/
For non-emergency medical advice, contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000.
A Decorated Chaplain
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
THOMAS David Beyer (Jnr) was an Anglican clergyman and Air Force Chaplain who was born in March 1906 at Lakes Entrance in Victoria. The son of Thomas David Beyer (Snr) and his wife Victoria Ruth (Dunk). His father was a wellknown Gippsland personality who died suddenly in Melbourne in 1940 where he had lived for five years. Before that he was a resident of Lakes Entrance and at one time was a prominent playing member of Essendon Town football team. Later he played with distinction in the Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance teams. He was actively associated with many civic projects for the progress of the Gippsland Lakes as a tourist resort and earned the esteem and affection of the residents of Lakes Entrance. He was also a prominent member of the Essendon A.N.A lodge and Anglers’ Society and also served for many years as a Vestryman of St Nicholas’s Church of England at Lakes Entrance and was also a member of the Synod of the diocese of Gippsland. Thomas (Jnr) attended Melbourne and Bairnsdale high schools and after finishing school he worked as a motorcar salesman in Melbourne in 1931. The next year he entered Ridley College (Australian College of Theology) and was made Deacon in December of that year. He was ordained Priest a year later for the Diocese of Gippsland and served his Curacy at Paynesville and was the “Priestin-Charge” at Drouin in 1934. That same year in April at the Church of St John the Baptist at Bairnsdale he married Hazel Vera Johnston the daughter of Samuel Renwick Johnston and Vera Jeanette Coverdale. The ceremony was published in the Gippsland Times saying, “A wedding that created a great deal of interest was that of the Reverend Thomas David Beyer, eldest son of Mr T D Beyer, “Normanhurst” Gippsland Lakes and the late Mrs Beyer to Hazel Vera only daughter of Mrs S R Johnston, of “Carlowrie” Bairnsdale and the late Mr Johnston of Lindenow and celebrated by the Bishop of Gippsland (Dr G H Cranswick) at St John’s Church of England, Bairnsdale. The bride was given away by her brother Mr E Johnston of Lindenow and wore a beautiful gown of silver brocade from a low hipline that terminated at the unusual moulded bodice. The skirt fell in graceful folds and formed a tiny train. Very quaint sleeves of fine silver needle run lace and an exquisite veil of tulle edged with fine lace and beautifully embroidered and all hand-made was also worn. This was loaned by the bride’s cousin Mrs D Travers-Fardon, of Malvern and was last worn by Mrs Don Bradman. The bride carried a beautiful shower sheaf of white roses, cactus dahlias and sweet peas with streamers. The bridesmaids were Miss Rosalyn Langdon and Miss Jean Wyndham who were friends of the bride. They both wore frocks in tea rose pink georgette with moulded bodices and a skirt of small frills forming a short train, sleeves of dainty frills and hats of silver ribbon with tulle brims. The gloves were of frilled georgette with pink satin shoes on their feet. They both carried muffs of blue delphiniums and pink carnations with frills of pink tulle. The bride’s mother wore a Wedgewood blue wool de-Chene frock with grey fur trim and a hat to match and she carried a bouquet of red cactus dahlias and fern. Mrs Beyer the stepmother of the bridegroom was becomingly attired in a gown of brown crepe de Chene frock with orange trimmings and wore a hat to match with brown shoes and gloves.
The bride and groom’s future home was at the Vicarage, Drouin.” In 1935 Thomas became Rector of Morwell where he contributed columns to the local newspaper under the pseudonym “Inquisitas”. He played cricket and Australian Rules football and participated in amateur theatricals. During WW2 in November 1940, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force as Chaplain 3rd class and was posted to Laverton, then in December 1941 to Geraldton in Western Australia. He embarked for England in January 1943, travelling on escort duty via North America and served for the remainder of the war at the No.11 Personnel Dispatch and Reception Centre that was located at Bournemouth and later moved to Brighton. This unit received RAAF personnel on arrival in England for further training or operational duties. As sole Unit Chaplain Thomas wrote hundreds of letters home to families of the airmen, conducted funerals, and produced a fortnightly magazine with a circulation of three hundred. In his office (christened `Bludgers Bower’ with the motto `Abandon rank all who enter’) men could talk over problems, read or write, receive comfort parcels from home or have a quiet yarn. His weekly services in local parish churches were always popular. As a keen sportsman he was responsible for arranging weekly matches against local teams. Having been a handy cricketer he regularly played in or led RAAF teams against other service’s or county teams. After VE Day Thomas worked with former prisoners of war. He arrived home to Australia in June 1946 and was posted to Point Cook in Victoria. In 1947-48 he served in Japan with the RAAF component of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. In 1950 he was Chaplain of Forces 3 when he spent a month in Korea during that war. In the King’s Birthday Honours in 1950 he was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Official reports on his service both in England and Japan testified to his effectiveness as a Chaplain saying - “Dave Beyer’s approach coupled a robust practical Christianity with a rich sense of humour”. Promoted to Principal Air Chaplain in January 1963 he was based at Penrith. This role required trips to yet another operational area, this time Vietnam. He transferred to the RAAF Reserve in March 1965 but continued to serve part time in Melbourne as PAC until he was placed on the Retired List in December 1967. Having been prominent in the service sporting administration Thomas became Executive Officer of the South Pacific Games Trust (1969) in Port Moresby where he stayed for three and a half years. Retiring to Bayside Melbourne he indulged his passion for catching fish, angling, boating, catching more fish and supporting the Melbourne Football Club. Survived by his daughter he died in November 1982 at Frankston and after a military funeral he was cremated at Springvale, Victoria. Hazel died in Victoria in 1979. PS: I haven’t been able to find a photo of Thomas, but this lovely photo is of Hazel in her cousin’s wedding gown courtesy of family information on Ancestry.
Sources: Australian Dictionary of Biography, Australian War Memorial, Supplement to the London Gazette 8/6/1950, Government Gazette WA 30/1/1942, The Cable Clerical Index - Project Canterbury – Anglican History.org, Gippsland Times Victoria, Age (Melbourne, Vic).
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
MBuy Now Pay Later - the hidden danger potentially stopping you from owning your own home
ANY consumers are unaware of the negative impact that a buy now pay later service can have on their credit score and potential home loan applications and I’m seeing more consumers applying for a home loan having Buy Now Pay Later providers listed on the credit file.
Starting Tuesday, June 10, new changes are being implemented for Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services, with millions of Australians potentially affected. BNPL products – such as Afterpay, Zip, and Humm – as well as low-cost credit contracts for significant purchases like solar panels or dental work, will be regulated similarly to credit cards.
Legislation introduced in June 2024 requires BNPL providers to hold an Australian credit licence, comply with existing credit laws under the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and establish a new category of low-cost credit under the Credit Act. Providers may now conduct mandatory checks and inquiries into a consumer’s financial situation, including income and expenditure, to prevent undue financial strain.
As of June 2024, BNPL providers must hold an Australian credit licence, follow ASIC regulations, and providers may now conduct mandatory checks and inquiries into a consumer’s financial situation, including income and expenditure, to prevent financial hardship.
BNPL services are the third-most used credit product in Australia, following credit cards (58 per
cent) and home loans (21 per cent), according to recent data. Consumers may experience changes such as missed or late payments appearing on their credit reports, and mandatory credit checks that could impact credit scores.
But as the sector’s growth continues, mortgage professionals are warning users, particularly in the younger demographic, to be cautious of overdoing it as this could risk effecting their chances of securing a home loan further down the track.
Under the new rules, your BNPL behaviour could directly impact your credit score and your future ability to get a loan, a credit card, or even a mortgage.
While these services can be helpful in a pinch, using them frequently doesn’t look good to a lender – it tells them you can’t budget your money well, which can understandably make you seem like a risky loan applicant.
What many people don’t realise is that a bank assesses your borrowing power using your credit report and current debt – and they use your credit card or Afterpay limit, not your current balance. Essentially, they’re calculating your ability to repay a loan based on what your regular outgoings would be if these cards and accounts were maxed out. That can seriously affect how much you can borrow.
One has to ask, how many people can manage their money this way, there’s probably one per cent of people doing that and the rest of them are spending beyond their means.
As a result, there may also be a stigma associated with using Buy Now Pay Later schemes rather than paying up-front and in-full and utilising this payment method may potentially send the wrong message to a bank.
If a lender sees a ‘buy now pay later’ provider frequently on a client’s bank statements, that can trigger more questions about their spending behaviours and ultimately may mean they choose to decline the application.
While the BNPL sector offers immediate rewards, it’s important to appropriately manage your expenses well in advance of applying for a home loan, that way you can show the bank that you can save and afford to service a mortgage when the time comes. I would much prefer to see my clients save for the item and demonstrate those good habits.
If you are concerned about your level of expenditure or your ability to secure a home loan, a conversation with your mortgage broker could set you on the right path.
Wealthwiz proudly helps many clients each year overcome all the red tape and barriers put in their way and if you need help with a loan or have any questions you can always have a one-on-one discussion.
Just give Alex a call on 0419 600 177 and tell us about your situation. The more we learn, the better we can help.
HSRCA Sydney Classic warms a winter crowd at SMSP
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE HSRCA’s 2025 Sydney Classic was held at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP) over the King’s Birthday long weekend (7-8 June), bringing a spectacular collection of classic race, sports and touring cars to the circuit.
The meeting featured the Group C & A Australian touring cars of the Heritage Touring Cars series, HQ Racing NSW and MG Racing Australia, alongside events for all historic race classes and speed events for vehicles up to the 2010s.
Other categories were Group N touring cars, Group S classic sports cars, iconic Brabham race cars in M, O, P and Formula Junior, along with Formula Vee and Formula Ford.
Action from the 2025 HSRCA Sydney Classic. Clockwise from top left: MG, HQ, C&A, Regularity, Q&R. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Fox, Thorpe and Nathan top ten in JNJG Macarthur Junior Masters
NINETEEN junior golfers from western Sydney clubs have competed in the 2025 JNJG Macarthur Junior Masters, which was held at Campbelltown and Camden golf courses over 8-9 June.
Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) has finished in 2nd place outright in the Boys division, just one shot in arrears of Noah Graham (Camden GC). Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC) was a further five shots back in 3rd, whilst Matt Nathan (Lynwood CC) finished 7th.
Ti and Chayse also finished 2nd and 3rd respectively in 16 & Over Boys, whilst Matt finished 6th. Luke Carruthers (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finished 9th in 14/15 Boys.
In the Girls division, former Schofields junior Camilla Kim (The Australian GC) finished 1st outright, two shots ahead of Jordyn Deen (Castle Hill CC), with Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC) finishing tied for 11th.
Camilla also won the 14/15 Girls age division, with Jordyn in 2nd and Savannah in 3rd.
THE Master Pennant season is entering its final two weeks and a few local golf clubs are in contention for playoff berths, whilst others appear destined for the relegation playoffs. Springwood CC currently lead Division 2, Section 2 and face Bayview GC home and away in the final two rounds. In Section 4, Lynwood trails Lakeside Camden on percentages but the two clubs are drawn to play out the battle for first place against each other over the next two weeks.
In Division 3, Section 1, Fox Hills GC is in 2nd with a chance to grab top spot, facing Northbridge home and away; In Section 2, Richmond GC is in 2nd and play 4th-placed Bexley home and away; whilst in Section 4, Leonay GC is in 2nd and play Moore Park GC home and away.
Clubs headed to the relegation playoffs are: Dunheved (Div 1, Section 1), Stonecutters Ridge or Penrith (Div 1, Section 3), Twin Creeks (Div 1, Section 4), Wallacia
or Glenmore Heritage Valley (Div 3, Section 3.
Last Sunday’s results were: Division 1: Cronulla 5.5-2.5 over Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club, Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club 4-4 with Pennant Hills, Asquith 4.5-3.5 over Penrith Golf Club, Cabramatta 5.5-2.5 over Dunheved Golf Club; Division 2: Springwood Country Club 5-3 over Woolooware, Lynwood Golf & Country Club 7-1 over Marrickville; Division 3: Fox Hills Golf Club 5-3 over Campbelltown, Richmond Golf Club 6.5-1.5 over Beverley Park, Strathfield 4.5-3.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley, Brighton Lakes 5-3 over Leonay Golf Club, Wallacia Country Club 6.5-1.5 over Antill Park.
Standings: Div 1 Dunheved Golf Club 4th, Penrith Golf Club 3rd, Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club 4th, Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club 4th.
Div 2: Springwood Country Club 1st, Lynwood Golf & Country Club 2nd
Div 3: Fox Hills Golf Club 2nd, Richmond Golf Club 2nd, Glenmore Heritage Valley Golf - 3rd, Wallacia Country Club 4th, Leonay Golf Club 2nd.
Western Sydney golfers shine in recent tournaments
BY NOEL ROWSELL
KADE Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) has been defeated in a sudden-death playoff at the latest NextGEN Amateur Tour event, which was held at Castle Hill and Oatlands golf courses over 2-3 June.
Kade and Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) both finished with rounds of 160 in the fog-affected event, and would head back out in a sudden-death playoff to decide the winner, with Darcy recording a birdie on the 2nd hole to claim victory.
Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) also played well to secure 6th spot, whilst Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / New South Wales GC) finished 14th.
Darcy and Kade also finished 1st and 2nd respectively in the 18-25 Male division, whilst Ti was the winner in U18 Male.
Tamworth and Longyard golf clubs hosted the 2025 Srixon NSW MidAmateur golf tournament over the 31st May - 2nd June.
There were 17 entries from western Sydney clubs, with 2 players withdrawing during the first two rounds and a further 8 players missing the cut-off score of 16-over-par.
Dillyn Burazin (Dunheved GC) was the best of the western Sydney contingent, finishing his 3 rounds in 7th place at 3-under-par 209, just 6 shots in arrears of the winner Luke
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Ti Fox and Chayse Thorpe. Photos courtesy of Ethan Keane / JNJG
Humphries (Goulburn GC) on 203. Kristopher Clelland (Fox Hills GC) shot 5-over-par 217 to finish in a tie for 20th, Michael Elliot (Penrith
GC) shot 8-over-par 220 to finish tied 28th, Christopher Sutanto (Fox Hills GC) and Martin Hooper (Fox Hills GC) both 14-over par scores of
226 to finish tied 47th, Mark Stone (Lynwood CC) and David Bishop (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC) both 19-over-par 231 in a tie for 67th.
Kade Webber in action at Castle Hill. Photo courtesy of Ewan Porter / NextGEN Amateur Tour
Dillyn Burazin and Martin Hooper at the Srixon NSW mid-Amateur. Photo courtesy of David Tease / Golf NSW
Blacktown City bounce back with APIA Challenge looming
BY BOB TURNER
BLACKTOWN City bounced back in Round 18 with a 1-0 win over the Central Coast Mariners Academy at a blustery Landen Stadium on Sunday. The result followed a tough 4-1 loss away to NWS Spirit the week prior, which saw Blacktown drop down the table, and an unfortunate 2-1 exit from the Hahn Australia Cup at home to SD Raiders on Wednesday night.
It was Mitch Mallia who proved the difference in Round 18, finding the net in first-half stoppage time with a clever finish after a scrappy, windaffected opening period. The Mariners pressed early and looked threatening from set pieces, but City weathered the storm. Cayden Henderson came up big in goal, denying a top-corner free kick from Jai Rose to keep the scores level.
Mallia’s booking and a few nervy defensive moments added tension to the match, but Mark Crittenden’s men began to find their feet and took control of possession in the second half. Despite a few scares, Blacktown closed out the game with composure to seal a much-needed three points. It was a necessary response after a disappointing Round 17 league loss at Christie Park, where captain Travis Major opened the scoring early with a sliding finish at the back post, assisted by Danny Choi. But Spirit hit back with two goals before the break and added another two late on to hand Blacktown one of their heaviest defeats of the season. Just days later, City suffered another blow in the Hahn Australia Cup, falling 2-1 at home to League One side SD Raiders. Jak O’Brien levelled the match in the first half after the visitors struck early, but a second-half goal from Mihael Marcic sealed the upset and ended Blacktown’s cup run.
With 18 games played, Blacktown now sit in fifth place on 33 points, nine off the top following Rockdale’s win over league leaders Marconi. A crucial Round 19 clash now awaits as Blacktown travel to Lambert Park this Sunday, the 15th of June at 3:00pm to take on APIA Leichhardt. The match
can be watched live and free on the Football NSW YouTube channel.
The two sides are level on points and both looking to stay in the hunt for the top spot. In the reverse fixture, Blacktown edged APIA 4-3 in a thrilling Round 4 encounter at Landen Stadium thanks to a late Danny Choi
goal. With so much at stake, and APIA enjoying a strong run of form before last week’s setback, this weekend’s match shapes as a pivotal moment in the season.
APIA are coming off a narrow 1-0 defeat to NWS Spirit, their first loss after an eight-game unbeaten streak
across the league and Australia Cup, and must back up from a midweek Waratah Cup semi-final against the in-form Northern Tigers from League One. Blacktown, now out of the Australia Cup, will be laser-focused on climbing the ladder and pushing for finals with a strong run home.
Travis Major.
Martin Fernandez vs NWS Spirit. Photos courtesy of Not24Get
Maksim Jez and Travis Major.
Grant Lynch.
ASBK heads to Morgan Park Qld for Round 4
THE motorcycle racing spotlight will fall squarely on Warwick, Queensland and the multi-purpose Morgan Park motorsport precinct this weekend (1315 June), as it hosts the Australian Superbike and ProMX Championships over consecutive weekends, as part of a wider celebration of motorcycle sports.
Thanks to support from the Southern Downs Regional Council, the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) returns to Morgan Park Raceway for Round 4 of its 2025 campaign from June 13-15.
The ProMX Championship will make its first-ever visit to Morgan Park on Sunday, June 22 competing
on the extensively upgraded Warwick MX Club-run motocross track.
The two Motorcycling Australia national championships will form the backbone of ‘Warwick Bike Week 2025’. with ASBK featuring six classes and over 22 hours of on-track activity in what could be a seasondefining round for so many.
Morgan Park Raceway has become a mainstay on the ASBK calendar. The tight and twisty nature of the 12turn, 2.96km layout means that race winners rarely prevail without some serious heat, this year’s Race 2 in the premier Superbike class being a prime example, as Mike Jones (Yamaha) just outlasted Ducati’s fast-finishing Broc Pearson to win in a cliff-hanger.
Local riders competing this weekend include JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) and Jack Favelle (Cattai) in Superbike; Jake Farnsworth
(Glenhaven) in Supersport; Elijah Andrew (Marayong) in Road & Race Supersport; Zachary Russo (Sackville North) in Road & Race Supersport and
Australian Little League Championships in Blacktown
AJUNIOR baseball team playing in Blacktown this week is about to become one of Australia’s most watched teams.
Twelve teams of 10-12 year olds are competing in the Australian Little League Baseball Championship, with the winning team earning a spot at the 2025 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania (USA), which is one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.
The tournament ran from Sunday 8 June – Friday 13 June at the Blacktown
Yamaha R3 Cup; and Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup and the Yamaha R3 Cup.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Blacktown Baseball Field. Photo courtesy of H Whittle / Baseball Australia
(L-R) Elijah Andrew, JJ Nahlous and (below) Jake Farnsworth in action. Photos courtesy of RbMotoLens / Pit Lane Studio / Endorphin Media
Baseball Field,, featuring the Eastern Phantoms (WA), NT Buffalos (NT), Ryde Red (NSW), Melbourne
Rangers (VIC), Macarthur (NSW), Brisbane North (QLD), Melbourne Twins (VIC), Southern Titans (WA),
Gold Coast (QLD), Adelaide Marlins (SA), Manly (NSW), Canberra Rangers (ACT).