New pools to boost swimming opportunities in Blacktown
BLACKTOWN Aquatic Centre is set for the biggest revamp in its 64-year history with new swimming pools for children and adults to be part of a premier facility for Western Sydney.
Blacktown City Council will provide a new indoor 50m pool, a new indoor 25m learn to swim pool and upgrade the outdoor 50m pool as part of wide-ranging improvements.
The revamp will also include:
• an extended splashpad that lets small children safely enjoy water play
• a new café, foyer and reception
• the café better positioned to serve pool patrons and people in the RSL War Memorial Garden
• upgraded fitness rooms and amenities
• inclusive amenities and changerooms
• landscape improvements, including the carpark.
The revamp will ensure Blacktown Aquatic Centre is one of the top swimming destinations in Western Sydney and provides more opportunities for a booming population.
The vision will become reality after Council successfully gained $77.19 million funding from the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said people in Western Sydney depended on public pools to learn to swim and exercise, and deserved top rate facilities.
“We want to encourage people to learn to swim and enjoy the water close to home, and we can do that by providing a first class venue,” he said.
“Blacktown Aquatic Centre is the busiest of Council’s five swimming venues so we want to make sure that when people come here there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy.”
The upgraded centre will increase capacity from 2,000 learn to swim students per week to 5,000.
The centre caters to swimming clubs, schools, learn to swim classes, aqua aerobics, gym users and more.
Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure
Grants and targeted federal and state grants had provided unprecedented record investment into councils like Blacktown City to deliver new or upgraded infrastructure.
“In this case, ageing aquatic infrastructure will be upgraded to provide opportunities for the next generation of champions, as well as delivering community benefits from toddlers’ learn to swim classes through to seniors aqua zumba classes.”
Zoe Jenkins from Urakawa Jenkins Architecture was proud to be part of the effort.
“The transformation of Blacktown Aquatic Centre is driven by a vision to create not just a world-class facility, but a vibrant heart for the community,” she said.
“We are committed to delivering a contemporary aquatic centre that caters to the diverse needs of Blacktown, providing exceptional spaces for learning, playing, training, competing and relaxation.”
Blacktown Aquatic Centre (then known as Blacktown War Memorial Swimming Pool) opened in 1961 and
has served generations of community members since.
An 18-year-old Kieran Perkins broke the 800m freestyle world record at the venue at the NSW swimming titles in 1992.
The centre was a training venue for athletes preparing for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
In recent times, it was home to Paralympic medallists Tim Hodge and Chloe Osborn.
Blacktown Swim Club President Vaughan Irwin was looking forward to the plans becoming reality.
“The upgrade of Blacktown Aquatic Centre will provide more opportunities for our swimmers to reach their potential,” he said.
“Our club provides for swimmers of a range of abilities and it’s great to see they will be catered for with these plans too.”
Blacktown Masters Swimming Club President Mark Macdonald was excited by the possibilities.
“Blacktown Aquatic Centre will be the ideal venue to host major carnivals and encourage more people here to participate,” he said.
“The upgrade will also provide much-needed lane space for our members, who share the pool with swimmers of all abilities.”
Community consultation has been at the forefront of planning. Council has collected the views of centre visitors and the broader community to inform the design.
The community will have more opportunities to ask questions at community information sessions at Blacktown Aquatic Centre on Saturday 17 May (9 am – 11 am) and Tuesday 20 May (3.30 pm – 5.30 pm).
Work is anticipated to begin in 2026 and will take about 18 months.
It is an exciting time for the swimming community in Blacktown City. Mayor Bunting recently announced Mount Druitt Swimming Centre will receive the biggest upgrade in its 50-year history including the addition of an indoor learn-to-swim pool.
The $40.6 million Mount Druitt upgrade is also funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting and Blacktown Swim Club President Vaughan Irwin
Artist impression of indoor pool.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting, Blacktown MP Stephen Bali, Blacktown Swim Club President Vaughan Irwin and swimmers
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From the Editor’s Desk
WBY KERRIE DAVIES
Politics: The new reality TV you didn’t know you needed
ELL, well, well… if you thought the election campaign was the main event, the past week in politics has proved it was just the warm-up act. What was tagged by many as “the most boring election campaign ever” has been followed up with a plot-twist at every turn. Honestly, if things keep up at this pace, we might have to start handing out popcorn with the news.
In just over a week we’ve had ballot papers allegedly found at an election worker’s house, a senator leave one party to join another and a public outburst from a politician who has lost his spot in the ministry.
Good news for local MP Michelle Roland, Member for Greenway, who has been appointed Australia’s Attorney-General. Big congratulations!
Over in Liberal-land, the party has dusted off the existential crisis manual and is doing a deep dive into some good old-fashioned soul-searching.
But amidst the commotion, a milestone: Sussan Ley has become the first female Opposition Leader and Leader of the Liberal Party. Ley edged out Angus Taylor in a party room vote (29 to 25).
I don’t think anyone realistic would underestimate the task Sussan Ley has ahead of her, but here’s hoping that she is successful in reuniting the party. Having too much dominance by one party isn’t great on any level of government; a tough opposition is needed to hold the governing party to account. Strong competition is an important factor in elections so here’s hoping the party evolves into a united one who can read the room and shape fresh policies accordingly.
So buckle up, folks. If this is week one post-election, the next few months could outdo your favourite soap opera. Democracy may be messy, but at least it’s not boring!
Birthing and maternity services at Rouse Hill Hospital
EXPECTANT mothers in Sydney’s northwest will be able to birth their babies closer to home, following $90 million in additional funding from the Minns Labor Government for the new Rouse Hill Hospital.
The funding boost will ensure comprehensive birthing services are delivered as part of the new Rouse Hill Hospital including birthing rooms, a maternity inpatient unit and additional staffing areas.
This will be in addition to the pre and post-natal maternity services already planned.
It follows the recent Federal Government’s $120 million commitment towards birthing services to ensure the hospital meets the needs of the community into the future.
This further investment from the Minns Labor Government brings the total contribution to the new hospital to $910 million.
The final scope for the Rouse Hill Hospital Development will be determined through the planning process will also include:
• An emergency department and primary access clinic
• Inpatient beds and day surgery services
• Short stay medical assessment services
• Pathology, pharmacy, and medical imaging services
• Outpatient and ambulatory care services including paediatrics and renal dialysis
• Virtual care and hospital in the home services
• Prehabilitation, rehabilitation and lifestyle medicine.
The new hospital will be future-proofed and built with expansion zones, to ensure capacity for additional health services in the future.
Planning and design for the additional maternity services will get underway immediately and delivery timeframes will be determined following the design process and award of a construction contract.
The full scope of health services will be confirmed when planning and design is finalised, and extensive consultation with the community, consumers, staff and stakeholders is being carried out to help inform this planning.
The planned new Rouse Hill Hospital will join a network of maternity and neonatal services provided by the Western Sydney Local Health District through Westmead, Blacktown and Auburn hospitals, meeting the needs of the western Sydney community, offering birthing services to over 10,000 western Sydney women, their babies and families each year.
The new Rouse Hill Hospital is part of the Minns Labor Government’s delivery of more than
$3 billion in hospital infrastructure across western Sydney, including:
• $1.3 billion for the New Bankstown Hospital
• $550 million for the Fairfield Hospital Redevelopment
• $120 million for additional treatment spaces for Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals
• $350 million for the Canterbury Hospital Redevelopment.
“Thanks to the partnership between the Minns Labor Government and the Albanese Labor Government, north-west Sydney is finally getting the high-quality, local healthcare our community has needed for years,” said NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car.
“This region is one of the fastest-growing in the country, and this investment in birthing and maternity services is vital in meeting the needs of local families now and into the future.
“The Liberals had more than a decade in office and failed to deliver even the basics. Labor is delivering real investment - with the infrastructure and services our communities deserve.”
For information about the new Rouse Hill Hospital, including the stakeholder and community engagement summary visit the Rouse Hill Hospital website www.rousehillhospital.health.nsw.gov. au/
Urgent care service boost for Quakers Hill
ANEW Urgent Care Service recently opened its doors to patients in Quakers Hill. The Quakers Hill community is now able to access nonemergency healthcare in a more timely way, and avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department.
The Quakers Hill Urgent Care Service is now open 365 days a year from 8am to 8pm seven days a week. Healthcare provided at Quakers Hill Urgent Care Service is bulk-billed.
The service is staffed by General Practitioners and nurses with important diagnostic services onsite including radiology and pathology and is wellsupported to treat a range of illnesses and injuries that are deemed urgent, but not life-threatening. This includes minor wounds needing stitches, suspected broken bones and skin infections.
Patients should call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to access the service. A registered nurse will assess the patient’s condition and then discuss with the patient the best place for their care needs. This may include an appointment at the Quakers Hill Urgent Care Service, a telehealth appointment with the virtualKIDS or virtualGP services, or escalating their care to other services like NSW Ambulance if required.
The Quakers Hill Urgent Care Service is being delivered in partnership with the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
The Minns Labor Government is working to improve access to care and reduce wait times, through the emergency department relief package which will invest an additional $100 million to fund urgent care services for a further two years, providing a pathway to care outside of our hospitals for an estimated 114,000 patients once fully implemented.
Minister for Health, Ryan Park said families in North-Western Sydney now have more pathways to access timely care for conditions which can be safely and effectively treated outside of the emergency department.
“This new service at Quakers Hill will improve access to care, reduce wait times and take pressure off western Sydney’s hospitals,” Mr Park said.
“I’m committed to increasing availability of healthcare to communities through urgent care services just like this one, which are aimed at bridging the gap between primary care and emergency care, ensuring patients have fast access to the care they need.”
Member for Riverstone, Warren Kirby said he welcomes access to an urgent care service for the residents of Riverstone.
“Quakers Hill’s new Urgent Care Service is a win for the community, and for the health system – in that it will provide an alternative pathway to care for patients with urgent conditions, and it will take pressure off Blacktown Hospital and the soon to be built Rouse Hill Hospital,” Mr Kirby said.
Western Sydney Primary Health Network spokesperson, Andrew Newton said this newest urgent care service in Quakers Hill complements two which are already operating in Auburn and Castle Hill in partnership with Western Sydney PHN.
“Importantly, these services give residents of western Sydney a genuine alternative outside of a busy ED for urgent, but not life-threatening, illnesses and injuries,” he said.
Rouse Hill Hospital artist’s impression
New scholarship to support women in property
CASTLE Group’s Perera Foundation and Western Sydney University recently announced a new scholarship to encourage women to pursue careers in property – at a time when women make up just 20 per cent of Australia’s construction industry workforce.
The new Perera Foundation Scholarship for three years, will provide support for eligible female students undertaking the Bachelor of Business (Property) degree at the University’s School of Business, who may be grappling with financially or personally challenging circumstances.
According to the NSW Government’s 2024 Women in Construction annual survey, women make up just 20 per cent of the construction industry, with even fewer in leadership positions.
Castle Group and Perera Foundation Managing Director, Ritchie Perera, said, “Women are underrepresented in the property sector and we want to help change that. This scholarship will make it easier for women seeking a career in property.”
“With this scholarship, we’re investing in the next generation of female leaders in property development, ensuring they build the confidence, skills, and experience to excel in their careers,” Mr Perera added.
Professor Hind Benbya, Dean of the School of Business applauded Castle Group’s Perera Foundation for this commendable initiative.
“The School’s property program, recognised as the top-ranking program in Australia and Oceania by EduRank, enjoys a stellar reputation within the property industry. It is crucial to maintain a robust talent pipeline for women in property management, making initiatives like this scholarship invaluable to the field,” said Professor Benbya.
Professor Alphia Possamai-Inesedy, Pro ViceChancellor, Student Success, at Western Sydney University, expressed gratitude to Castle Group’s Perera Foundation for its generous support and commitment to empowering women in the property sector.
“Western Sydney University has a proud tradition of expanding access to higher education. This scholarship offers vital financial support that will empower women to succeed—both in their studies and in the property sector. By supporting more women into the field, we’re helping to build a
stronger, more diverse, and future-focused property industry—one that reflects and supports the growing needs of Western Sydney,” said Professor Possamai-Inesedy.
The Perera Foundation Scholarship is now open to eligible female students enrolled in a Bachelor of Business (Property) at Western Sydney University School of Business.
Students interested in applying for the scholarship can visit www.westernsydney. edu.au/opportunities/scholarships/all_uws_ scholarships/perera-foundation
WSU partners with Gotcha4Life to support mental health in schools
WESTERN Sydney University and Gotcha4Life have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on an innovative mental health program supporting school communities across Australia.
Through this partnership, the University will contribute its research expertise to support the delivery, evaluation, development, and scaling of Gotcha4Life’s transformative Mentally Fit Schools Program.
The program adopts a whole-of-school approach to foster emotional adaptability, social connectedness, and help-seeking behaviours among students, equipping them with lifelong skills to manage their mental wellbeing. The MoU was officially signed on 11 March 2025.
Professor Sarah Lewis, Dean of the School of Health Sciences at Western Sydney University, said the University was proud to contribute to a program that creates meaningful change within schools and communities.
“Our collaboration will focus on measuring the program’s outcomes, scalability, and alignment with best practices in promoting mental health, using data-driven insights to demonstrate the impact of the Mentally Fit Schools Program,” said Professor Lewis.
“This program is a key part of Western Sydney University’s commitment to creating healthier, more connected communities while ensuring students have the tools to thrive both in school and beyond. We look forward to supporting Gotcha4Life in advancing the Mentally Fit Schools Program and its long-term impact.”
Gotcha4Life Belinda Elworthy, CEO said, “We’re proud to partner with Western Sydney University to strengthen the impact of our Mentally Fit Schools Program. It’s important that we measure what’s working - not just to show impact, but to help us learn, improve, and intentionally reach more communities around Australia. With the university’s research expertise, we’ll continue to build a strong
evidence base for how embedding mental fitness into the daily life of a school can improve outcomes for students, teachers, and families alike.”
Gotcha4Life is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to building a mentally fit future. It develops and delivers preventative mental fitness campaigns, workshops, programs and resources in schools, sports clubs, workplaces and communities throughout Australia. Gotcha4Life was founded in 2017 by media personality Gus Worland.
Blacktown City Council releases $767 million draft Budget to meet the needs of a growing, changing city
AT the extraordinary meeting of Council held tonight, Wednesday 7 May, Blacktown City Council, the biggest Council in NSW, has released its draft 2025/26 Budget, outlining a $767 million plan to deliver essential services and infrastructure in support of a growing city.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting, said the budget builds on Council’s long-term vision and strong financial foundation, continuing to respond to the pressures of a rapidly growing population and rising costs.
“This Budget is about more than numbers, it’s about building the city that our community needs. From essential services, childcare centres and libraries to roads and parks, we are investing in every corner of our city, for every family, every business, and every future.”
The draft Budget includes $126 million in capital works, with significant investment in building upgrades, roads, footpaths, and drainage and stormwater infrastructure. These investments support the continued transformation of key precincts across the city.
Council is progressing a number of projects, including the expansion of Kevin Betts Stadium and the delivery of Blacktown Disability Sports Centre, a $15 million facility at the Blacktown International Sports Park, that will place Blacktown City at the forefront of accessible sport and recreation.
Work also continues on the construction of Ken Birdsey Park in Schofields, with early construction well underway and a delivery partner appointed to bring the 20-hectare precinct to life.
These projects build on a year of delivery across Blacktown City.
In partnership with the NSW Government, several major projects are being delivered through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program. These include the revitalisation of the Mount Druitt Hub, the creation of a new library and community hub in Seven Hills, a new purpose-built First Nations Cultural Centre in the Mount Druitt town centre, and the modernisation of the Blacktown Aquatic Centre, Mount Druitt Swimming Centre and the Mount Druitt PCYC at Shalvey.
Council is also working with Walker Corporation to deliver the Blacktown Quarter, the single biggest redevelopment of the city centre, a major project that will create jobs, drive investment, and reshape the heart of Blacktown.
“These transformations are guided by Council’s planning, driven by strong advocacy, and made
possible through strategic partnerships, all reflecting our enduring commitment to a stronger, more sustainable, more connected Blacktown City,” Mayor Bunting said.
At a community level, Council continues to improve access to local sport and recreation, with recent upgrades to Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre at Emerton, the delivery of new beach volleyball courts at Glenwood, new cricket nets at Whalan Reserve, high efficiency LED lighting installed at Jonas Bradley Tennis Courts, and a renewed inclusive playground at Wawai Ngurra in the Nurragingy Reserve at Doonside.
These improvements are helping to create safe, welcoming spaces for families, young people, and people of all abilities, supporting communities across Blacktown City to be healthier and more active, more often.
The draft Budget also funds the rollout of the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service. Council is delivering this new service, a major reform to waste collection, in line with our commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing, helping to reduce landfill, cut emissions, and turn organic waste into compost. FOGO will play a key role in building a cleaner, greener future for Blacktown City.
Blacktown City continues to shoulder the growing impacts of cost shifting, rate caps, and restrictions on developer contributions, state-imposed constraints that limit the ability of councils to fund the infrastructure, services, and community facilities that growing populations rely on.
These pressures are especially challenging in fast-growing cities like Blacktown, where rapid development drives the need for continued investment in roads, parks, pools, libraries, community centres, childcare, and waste services.
The North West Growth Area of Blacktown City has a $732 million shortfall in funding for community facilities, due to limits on developer contributions.
This draft Budget reflects Council’s responsible approach to financial management and its ongoing advocacy for a fairer funding system, one that gives local government the tools to deliver for its communities now and into the future.
Mayor Bunting said, “Through disciplined financial leadership, bold investment, and a deep commitment to our community, this Council is delivering not just infrastructure and services, but working to improve everyday life for the people and businesses who call Blacktown City home, from families and children to workers, students
and seniors. Everything we deliver, from roads and libraries to green spaces, revitalised town centres, and civic precincts, is about building a city that serves our people.”
Residents are invited to view and provide feedback on the draft Operational Plan and Budget from 13 May to 10 June 2025 at Council’s libraries or online at www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au.
Blacktown City Council key 2025/26 Budget highlights:
Budget forecast spending for 2025/26: $767 million
$126 million allocated for major capital works, including:
• $82 million for building improvements
• $22 million for road and footpath upgrades
• $7 million for drainage and stormwater infrastructure
• $6 million to upgrade sporting facilities
• $3 million for land acquisitions in urban release areas.
Funding for core services consisting of:
• $78 million for the operation and management of waste and recycling services
• $59 million for the maintenance of parks, reserves and sporting grounds
• $31 million for the operation of Kids’ Early Learning Centres
• $28 million for customer service and governance functions.
• $26 million for the operation of aquatic centres, community centres and the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre
• $11 million for Council libraries
Blacktown City Fast Facts:
• Blacktown City has a population of 450,000 people, which is expected to exceed 600,000 by 2041
• largest council area in NSW by population, fourth largest in Australia/
• a growing $24.8 billion economy
• 33,878 registered businesses, supporting over 147,079 local jobs
• construction is the largest industry, worth $9.652 billion annually
• covers 54 suburbs
• 184 languages spoken; residents from 188+ countries
• home to one of NSW’s largest urban First Nations populations
• 1,549 km of roads, 1,778 km of footpaths and cycleways, 262 km of waterways
• 777 parks, reserves and open spaces
Death at South Creek
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
AT South Creek on the 22nd of January 1859 at Regentville William Watson was indicted for having unlawfully and feloniously killed and stabbed Simon Ryan. The prisoner pleaded not guilty and was undefended. Mr Butler conducted the case for the Crown. It appeared that the prisoner had been one of a party of sawyers residing beyond Penrith. They had been into Penrith and were returning when the crime for which the prisoner stood charged was committed. Bridget Pidge said that on the night of the 11th January at about 11 o’clock the prisoner and several other men came with her husband to their house when she was called up from her bed and made them some tea then they then left but after a few minutes the prisoner and a coloured man named George Williamson returned then she and her husband retired to rest leaving the two men and the deceased Simon Ryan who had been living with them and not long after she heard a noise outside the house and got up and called her husband who went outside and saw the deceased lying on the ground with blood flowing from two wounds. William Pidge the husband of the last witness corroborated the evidence given by his wife and some additional particulars that he found Simon Ryan lying on the ground wounded and dead and he did not see the prisoner then but shortly afterwards when he was taken into custody by sergeant Warren. He found an auger belonging to him lying about twenty-two yards from the body and the handle was out of it and lying at some distance from the auger. He said that the party were working further up the country and had called at his house to get a cup of tea that was prepared by his wife and after the party left again. Bridget Pidge recalled she had not heard the prisoner make any remarks about the auger. George Williamson a coloured man said he was one of the party at Pidge’s and recognized the prisoner as one of the party and they had been drinking and was drunk. When the party left he fell on the grass and the prisoner took him back to Pidge’s hut and he then went to sleep but was roused shortly after and on going outside saw Ryan lying on the grass dead. The prisoner William was his mate and they were both sawyers. Police sergeant at Penrith Charles Warren said that on the night of 22nd January he received information that a man named Ryan had been stabbed and was lying dead and before arriving at the place where the dead body was he met the prisoner who told him that he was the man who had stabbed Ryan and said to him that the deceased was about to strike him with an auger and in his passion he stabbed him and on searching the prisoner at the watch-house a clasp knife dropped on the ground as though it had been between his belt and trousers. He picked it up and found it was covered with blood. Dr Haylock the duly qualified medical practitioner of Penrith said that on being called he examined the body of the deceased that he found covered with a sheet and lying about twenty yards from the Pidge’s hut and on examination he found two wounds, one on the right side that had penetrated through the heart and the other was not so deep and might not have proved fatal. The wounds might have been caused by
the knife produced and he saw the prisoner who seemed very excited and he expressed great sorrow for the rash act when he found that Ryan was dead. The prisoner in reply to his Honor stated that after Mr and Mrs Pidge had retired some words were spoken between the deceased and himself about as to who was the best saw-keeper and the deceased got excited and pushed him out of the door. He then came out with an auger (the handle of which he had beaten out against a block of wood) and he was in the act of striking him when the (prisoner) defended himself against the attack with one hand and stabbed the deceased with the other. Great sorrow was evinced by the prisoner in the recital of this statement. His Honor in summing up said it was a most distressing case. There appeared no doubt but that the crime was unpremeditated and the subsequent conduct of the prisoner in giving himself up to the Constable showed no wish to evade the punishment due to such a crime. From the evidence it appeared they had been drinking but that could not be pleaded as an excuse or there would be no safety for life. The jury then retired and after a few minutes’ consultation returned with a verdict of guilty but with a strong recommendation to mercy and sentenced to six weeks hard labour in Parramatta gaol. The turnkey in charge of the prisoner since his arrest was called in and spoke of the quiet orderly conduct the prisoner had maintained since he had been in his custody. His Honor said he would defer passing sentence until he heard the medical testimony on the state of the prisoner’s mind and later remanded him accordingly as verdict guilty of LARCENY.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald – 10th February, 1859
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
Wood Sawyer 1905 painting courtesy of Frederick McCubbin.
RRentvesting - enter the property market without sacrificing your current lifestyle
ISING property prices are making it tough for millennials to buy their dream home in prime locations. Many are forced to choose between sacrificing their inner-city lifestyle and home ownership.
For instance, purchasing a $1,000,000 apartment in Sydney with a 20% deposit and a loan amount of $800,000 at a 6% interest rate would result in monthly repayments of $5,164.00*. (*Principal and interest variable rate for an owner-occupied home over 25 years).
The average salary in Australia is approximately A$7,500 per month i.e. $90,000*1 annually before taxes, or A$5,857*2 after tax. This leaves approximately A$1,643 per month for living expenses.
Various sources place Sydney’s median household income in the range of about A$120,000 to A$160,000 a year, and as many are experiencing, buying property is currently challenging in this market.
But fear not, there’s a strategy that lets you have your cake and eat it too: Rentvesting.
Rentvesting is a strategy where you buy an investment property in a more affordable area while continuing to rent in your preferred location. This strategy is gaining popularity among young adults due to the flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional home ownership, you’re not tied down to a specific
location, allowing you to enjoy the busy city life or the charm of a beachside suburb.
With rentvesting, the rental income from your investment property can ideally cover your rent, making it a financially neutral proposition. This allows you to enjoy your current lifestyle without the extra burden of mortgage repayments.
More and more first-time buyers are embracing this approach. Instead of being confined to traditional home ownership, they’re building wealth by investing in affordable areas whilst renting in their desired location. Existing properties, rather than new ones, are often preferred due to their potential for higher capital growth.
However, it’s important to remember that rentvesting isn’t a magic bullet. Financial discipline
CROSSWORD
is key. Focus on delayed gratification and living within your means. Avoid extravagant spending while building your portfolio.
Whilst rentvesting offers a compelling path to property ownership, it’s not for everyone. It challenges the traditional notion of home ownership. Unlike the “Great Australian Dream” of owning a large house outright, rentvesting embraces strategic debt as a tool for wealth creation, provided you manage your budget effectively.
Consulting a financial advisor is essential if considering rentvesting, as an expert can help you assess your financial situation and determine if this strategy aligns with your goals.
Contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 for advice on optimizing your financial strategy that will allow you to maintain your current lifestyle.
Disclaimer: The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional fax or financial advice. The information in the article is believed to be reliable at the time of distribution, but neither WealthWiz nor its accredited brokers warrant its completeness or accuracy. Lender terms and conditions apply, for more information please call us on 0419 600 177.
*1- Australian Bureau of Statistics
*2- ATO Simple Tax Calculator).
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The Master Pennant
tees off for 2025
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE Master Pennant golf competition tees off in NSW on May 18, with 11 local clubs entered this season, led by Dunheved (Section 1), Penrith (Section 3), Stonecutters Ridge (Section 3) and Twin Creeks (Section 4), all competing in Division 1.
Penrith and Twin Creeks both won promotion to Division 1 this season after having contested the 2024 Division 2 Final, which Twin Creeks won 5-3.
Springwood (Section 2) and Lynwood (Section 4) are both in Division 2, Fox Hills (Section 1), Richmond (Section 2), Glenmore Heritage Valley (Section 3), Wallacia (Section 3) and Leonay (Section 4) are all in Division 3.
Fox Hills won promotion to Division 3 after contesting the Division 4 Final in 2024, which they lost 5-3 to Massey Park.
Local clubs hosting for Round 1 are Stonecutters Ridge vs Asquith (11:15am), Springwood vs North Ryde (11:00am), Lynwood vs The Coast (11:30am), Richmond vs Massey Park (11:00am), Glenmore Heritage Valley vs Antill Park (10:16am) and Leonay vs Roseville (11:00am).
Podium spots elude western Sydney riders at Qld Raceway
PODIUM placings were a bridge too far for our local western Sydney riders in Round three of the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), at Queensland Raceway on May 2-4.
Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) got the rough end of a pineapple in Race 1 of the Kawasaki Supersport, called for jumping the start and penalised 10 seconds at the completion of the race. Repeated video viewings of the start didn’t appear to back up the official’s complaint but the time penalty relegated Jake back to 10th place. He recovered strongly in Race 2, finishing in 4th place to place 6th for the Round and is ranked 8th for the Series.
JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) finished 10th and 5th in the two Superbike races, whilst Jack Favelle (Cattai) finished 12th and 10th.
JJ finished 7th and Jack 12th for the Round, whilst they are placed 5th and 10th for the Series.
Zach Russo (Sackville North) finished 11th, 19th and 14th in the Yamaha R3 category, whilst Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) finished 16th, 22nd and 17th. Zach finished 14th and
21st for the Round, whilst they are 16th and 25th respectively for the Series.
Zac also raced in the Supersport 300, finishing 26th, 26th and 22nd, whilst Elijah Andrew (Marayong) finished 21st, 19th and DNS. Neither rider got Round or Series points from
Phoenix Polo captures The Royal Richmond Hotel Cup
BY NOEL ROWSELL
KIM McDougall of M Polo Management reports “There were plenty of picnics and families catching all the finals action of The Royal Richmond Hotel Cup at Windsor Polo Club, being Mother’s Day and all.
“Great to see some incredible mums out there playing, also plenty of mums supporting on the sidelines – Shout out to Vic Doolin and Jessica Sheppard who took out the wins with their boys cheering them on.
“Thank you to The Royal Richmond Hotel, which sponsored the prizes this weekend
“There’s now a clear leader in the 2 Goal league, with LJ Mazda Willfin being undefeated thus far.
The Royal Richmond Hotel Cup (6 Goal)Phoenix Polo (Ferdinand Furch, Nick Wills, Adam Meally, Tommy Fernandez defeated Bella Polo 7-5.
2 Goal - LJ Mazda Willfin (Jessica Sheppard, Sam Willis, Tim Garner, Thomas Martin) defeated TRFD Polo 7-4.5.
Subzero - Killarney Orange (Mel Cochrane, Harriet Peters, Vic Doolin, Dick Doolin) defeated The Royal Richmond Hotel 4-3.5. Grooms prize sponsored by LJ ThoroughbredsOrlah Angove, grooming for Tommy Fernandez.
The NSW Polo Association (NSWPA) Intermediate is up next in the Hawkesbury League. The draw will be available on the Polo Matchmaker, Polo NSW and Windsor Polo Club FB pages.
18th and
He finished 16th for the Round and is 17th for the Series. The next round of the ASBK is at Morgan Park Raceway (QLD) over 13-15 June.
Adam
the event.
Adam Jordan also raced in the BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup, finishing 10th,
17th.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Jake Farnsworth #49 and JJ Nahlous #20 in action at QLD Raceway. Photos courtesy of Pit Lane Studio
Darren Adam and Jason Moss (Richmond) in action during 2024 Master Pennant. Photos by Noel Rowsell
File photo by Noel Rowsell
Evelyn Oram wins Royal Canberra Women’s Open
13-YEAR-OLD Evelyn Oram (Richmond GC) has won the 2025 Royal Canberra GC Women’s Open, which was held on Thursday 1st May at Royal Canberra GC with a strong field of 100 players.
Evie shot a round of 82 to win outright by a clear 8 shots from Emma Gelsomino (Bonnie Doon GC). Evie also finished 3rd in the Nett scores.
Fellow Richmond members Ashley Abbott and Sarah Meszaros also both played in the event, finishing 28th in A Grade and 5th in B Grade respectively.
Glenmore Heritage Valley dominates 3rd WSRVGA Inter-club
GLENMORE Heritage Valley GC hosted the 3rd round of the 2025 Western Sydney Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA) Inter-club series, and the reigning champions dominated on their home course, winning three of the four Individual competitions, featuring in both 2BBB categories and winning the team prize.
Dorothy and Glenn Wilmington (Glenmore HV) won the 2BBB Medley competition with 36 points, on a countback from Margaret and Jim Brownsell (Springwood) with 36; Frank Harvey and Graham Wallis (Dunheved) took out the Men’s 2BBB with 45 points, ahead of Syd Barwick and Bill Leydecker (Glenmore HV) with 44.
Men’s A Grade: Martin Berg (Wallacia) 36 points, ahead of Larry Hayes (Dunheved) with 35; Men’s B Grade: Todd Ramruska (Glenmore HV) with 38 points, two ahead of Warren Husband (Wallacia) on 36; Men’s C Grade: Syd Barwick (Glenmore HV) 34 points, ahead of Christopher Thorley (Dunheved) with 33.
Ladies: Juanita Robb (Glenmore HV) 27 points c/b, ahead of Margaret Brownsell (Springwood) 27.
After three rounds, the Men’s Player of the Year leader is Robert Lewis (Wallacia) on 103, ahead of Rod Tuckwell (Richmond) on 98 and Andrew Burns (Leonay) on 97.
In the Ladies Player of the Year rankings, Kahnna Tarana (Springwood) leads on 80 points, as the only lady to have played all three rounds. Suzanne Still (Richmond) and Christine Hoppe (Wallacia) both have 63 points from 2 rounds.
In the Club of the Year rankings, Glenmore lead on 431 points, ahead of Dunheved 413 and Richmond 407.
The next WSRVGA Inter-club event will be hosted by Leonay Golf Club on June 17th.
Showcase of Showjumping at Windsor Polo Club
WHAT a finish to an unforgettable weekend at the 2025 Divas Beverages Showcase of Showjumping.
In front of a packed crowd and under the watchful eye of world-renowned course designer Frank Rothenberger, the Grand Prix Final delivered a class worthy of its prestige, with only five combinations making it through to the jump-off.
Phillip Lever and Billionaire NZPH proved untouchable with a lightning-fast clear in 40.72 to take home the win and the $20,000 top prize, ahead of Tom McDermott and Cooley Gangster in second and Amelia Douglass and Quel Filou 16 rounding out the podium.
Reese Keenan and PPP Vive Le Mop won the King Ranch Equestrian Junior Final; Tess McInerney and Quintation won the Winning Group Mini Prix; Stephanie Fenn and DF Balou Bird twon the JJ Robertson & Sons Amateur Final; Matilda Telford and Sugar won the Ashford Farm Patrons Class; Tom McDermott and Tumeric won the Magic Millions Young Horse Final; Rhys Stones and Riverton Attention won the Ram Trucks Australia Get Out Stakes; Molly Mooney and JB Evolution won the Peachester Lodge Young Rider Final.
Full results for all events over the weekend and photos can be found on the Showcase of Showjumping FB page.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Phillip Lever and Billionaire NZPH. Photos courtesy of Click Capture Photography
Action from the event on Saturday. Photos by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL Sarah Meszaros, Evelyn Oram, Ashley Abbott. Photo supplied
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Blacktown City drops to third!
BY BOB TURNER
AFTER a resounding 4-0 victory over the Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 13, Blacktown City hit a major hurdle in Round 14. Up against Sydney FC, Coach Crittenden was confident his troops would continue their winning ways and pick up their sixth win in a row. Sydney FC had other ideas and stunned Blacktown City FC with a 5-0 win at a gloomy Landen Stadium.
Sydney FC skipper Alen Harbas was in the middle of it all from kick off and got his first of three goals after 34 minutes, while Lachlan Middleton got his first of the season for a Sydney FC 2-0 lead at the break. It is usually Blacktown City who come out of the half firing, but it was Sydney FC who once again dominated, with Harbas scoring two more to complete his hat trick and Tiago Quintal scoring one of his own.
The loss dropped Blacktown to third place on the ladder with an 8-3-3 record. Marconi still lead the competition despite losing their first game of the season, going down to Wollongong 3-0 on their home ground. The loss takes the Stallions to 10-3-1, followed by the Spirit and Rockdale tied for second on equal 8-4-2 records.
Blacktown now travels to Wollongong on Saturday, the 17th, in a critical match that will mark Round 15 and the halfway point of the season. Wollongong will be confident after handing the league leaders Marconi their first loss of the season. Back on their home ground, the Wolves will be ready to take it right up to Blacktown City.
The following week, Blacktown will be back at home to host League Leaders Marconi on Sunday, the 25th of May. This is a game not to miss as the two are fierce rivals. The two shared a 1-1 draw in the opening round of the 2025 season. Whilst Marconi has been consistent throughout the first half of the season, Blacktown at home will be up for the challenge.
Blacktown Women continue to struggle, going down 4-1 against the Number two side, SD Raiders, last week away from home. This week, the 18th, Blacktown Women will be home to host tenth place Sutherland in a game that Head Coach Michale Hawthorne will be desperate to win.
Blacktown Men have continued their winning ways in the Hahn Australia Cup, defeating Wollongong Olympic last Week 3-1. It was a tough midweek fixture travelling down to Wollongong but Coach Crittenden has his team ready to fire. One more round and Blacktown will qualify for the prestigious round of 32.
Blacktown City FC VS Marconi, Sunday, May 25th, Landen Stadium, 3pm
Go Blacktown City!
Full time Hahn Australia Cup VS Wollongong Olympic
Dimo Dimo.
Lachlan Campbell VS Sydney United. Photos courtesy of Not24Get