The Blacktown City Creative Arts Fund supports local arts and cultural projects
ON Thursday 14 August, Blacktown City Council awarded $45,000 worth of grant funding to 10 outstanding organisations and artists.
Commencing their projects in Blacktown, each project supports the creative growth and professional artistic and cultural development of local artists, creatives, groups and organisations.
Ranging from podcasts, music, photography, film, dance and creative therapy workshops, many of which support First Nations projects and culturally diverse artists and organisations.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting said, “Seeing the creativity and passion of our local artists as I presented these cheques was truly inspiring. Each project shows the incredible diversity that thrives in Blacktown City, from film and dance to photography and First Nations storytelling. Council is proud to support our local creatives as they develop their skills and share their stories with the wider community.”.
Each of the recipients show the depth of creative talent we have in Blacktown City.
Grant funding was awarded to the following artists and organisations:
Babayaan Aboriginal Corporation
Exhibition Mini Documentary
Filming a mini documentary to capture the development of an exhibition and encourage First Nations artists to continue exploring their creative development, confidence, self-esteem, spirituality and cultural knowledge.
Behzad Ansari
Echoes of Rumi in the Strings of Tar
Using traditional Persian composition on the Tar, the project draws from Rumi’s poetry and is expressed through live performance, recording, and creative sound exploration.
Emma Depares
Darkroom Diaries: The Sustainable Darkroom
Building a sustainable darkroom and photographic garden to develop their professional practice.
Euphony Xpressions
Creative Journeys: Blacktown Artists in Focus - Mastering Creative Blocks and Achieving Success in the Arts
Audio Visual Podcast showcasing Blacktown’s artists, inspiring creatives, and fostering engagement through storytelling, social media, YouTube and an in-person launch.
Luke Agius
The Bad Luck Bunch Trailer
A short proof of concept trailer for a coming of age horror film, about a group of friends that descend into the forest to find their missing friend and the Wirri Wirri Man. The project prioritises First Nations storytelling, cast and crew.
Mount Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency
Future Visions: Artistic Expression for Social Change
A transformative arts program led by local artist Emmanual Asante to empower Mount Druitt youth to create alternative social imaginaries through visual storytelling. Young participants will explore identity, culture, and the future through the workshop program.
Ritika Gilfedder
Monsoon Celebration - A Bollywood dance celebration
A series of Bollywood dance workshops with mothers, children and disability groups. Depicting the joy of the monsoon in South-East Asia, participants will learn a dance routine to Bollywood ‘rain’ songs.
Samarpana Institute of Dance Echoes of Home
The project, “Echoes of Home” is a Bharathanatyam dance production which explores home, belonging and displacement through movement, spoken word, and music, culminating in a work-in-progress showing.
Smartfone Flick Fest
Smartphone Filmmaking Masterclass Series + Documentary Shoot
A series of free classes aiming to empower local Blacktown City residents of all ages to learn basic and assessable filmmaking skills and craft a documentary that encapsulate the essence of community life in Western Sydney.
SydWest Multicultural Services
Beyond Words: Art as a Tool for Men’s Behaviour Change
A creative therapy program using art to support men’s behaviour change, fostering self-reflection, accountability, and emotional expression for healthier relationships and violence-free communities. Led by professional artist and educator, Abdullah M I Syed.
Comprehensive consultation program to inform community of rates proposal
BLACKTOWN City Council has endorsed a proposed special rate variation to help meet the needs and expectations of its growing community for services and facilities.
The endorsement will trigger a 42-day consultation period, to start in early September during which Blacktown City residents and businesses will be informed and consulted on the proposed rate change.
The Special Rate Variation (SRV), an increase above the standard rate rise determined by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), will help secure the future of recently announced major upgrades to the Blacktown and Mount Druitt swim centres, the extension of the Mount Druitt Library and Community Hub, the new Seven Hills Library and Community Hub, and other facilities. While the NSW Government has funded construction, Council must cover the costs of the ongoing staffing, maintenance and operation of these services. Most of the SRV increase would ensure the future of these facilities, along with
an expanded Mount Druitt PCYC, a new First Nations Cultural Hub, and a new, larger Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre.
Much-needed maintenance and renewal to address a $108 million backlog of existing infrastructure, such as roads, footpaths, and stormwater drainage, would also be provided by the SRV.
A small portion of the SRV, 37 cents per week for those that pay minimum residential rates, would also contribute to the delivery of a new public administration building located at Warrick Lane in Blacktown CBD. The new building will complement the planned Blacktown Quarter development that will bring more jobs, people, public spaces, and entertainment into the heart of the city.
A new administration centre at Rooty Hill is also proposed. This would deliver operational efficiencies and better coordination for teams providing essential works to infrastructure. It would also bring a significant boost to the economy of the Rooty Hill town centre.
The need for a SRV is a consequence of the prolonged impacts of cost shifting from governments and address a long-term rates setting model that has not kept pace with the actual costs of NSW’s largest and still growing Council.
Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting encouraged residents to take part in the consultation program so they could give informed feedback.
“This is about funding the future of Blacktown City. If we don’t act, Council may not be able to resource and deliver the services, playgrounds, footpaths, well-maintained roads and more that we all expect,” he said.
“I urge everyone to participate in consultation and find out for themselves the full picture of what the rates change will mean for Blacktown City.
“Your feedback will shape Council decision-making.”
For most of the community, those who pay minimum residential rates, the rates change would be an increase of $3.29 per week and apply from 2026/27.
This would comprise the $1.10 weekly increase set by IPART and a proposed $2.19 special rate variation, bringing the total increase to $3.29 per week.
For most smaller businesses (general), the rates increase would apply in 2026/27 (15%), and 2027/28 (8.5%) only.
These annual increases would remain permanently in the rates base, becoming part of annual rates going forward.
The community engagement and consultation program will soon provide information by direct mail, social media, face-to-face meetings, community forums and pop-up information sessions along with the Have Your Say feedback page on Council’s website.
An independent research study will identify community sentiment, concerns and issues related to the proposed SRV.
Community feedback and the independent research will be presented in a report to Council before a decision on whether to apply to IPART for the rates change.
2025 Blacktown City Creative Art Fund successful recipients. Photo by Garry Trinh
CEO Simon Hickey invites local media to WSI
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WSI CEO Simon Hickey led an invited group of print and radio media on a tour of the new WSI Airport terminal building on Wednesday 13th August, highlighting the ease and efficiency which future passengers will enjoy in the high technology environment, as they
prepare to travel both interstate and internationally.
The visit by the media was just one of many such tours which will be enjoyed by schools, service groups and the general public over the remainder of the year, as various infrastructure of the building, technology and services is thoroughly tested, prior to the official opening in 2026.
Simon has enjoyed a senior executive career of more than 30
years across aviation, construction and retail. He leads the team developing the business and infrastructure for Sydney’s new airport and is a globally experienced CEO and CFO.
As former chief executive of Qantas International and Freight, Simon led the return to profitability of the nation’s
flagship carrier, establishing new network alliances, improving aircraft utilisation and increasing customer advocacy.
A full breakdown of the senior Executive team at WSI can be found at: https://wsiairport.com.au/about/ leadership
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From the Manager’s Desk
BY BART BASSETT
Metro Missing Link Needed Now
IF we take a step back in time, we can recall the efforts of many elected representatives—across all sides of politics— who worked together to campaign for what was then labelled the Western Sydney Orbital Rail. That campaign made clear that the first step in this vision was the North West Rail Link.
Fast forward to more recent years, and we saw the North West Rail Link become the Sydney Metro Northwest—an on-the-ground, fully operating piece of infrastructure that has been embraced by Sydneysiders as one of their preferred modes of transport.
From next year, the Western Sydney International Airport will open for operations. Jobs are already being offered across all areas of airport operations, creating exciting new career pathways for people across Sydney. Alongside this, the development of the Bradfield City Centre, adjoining the airport precinct, promises major long-term economic benefits.
Yet while all of this is exciting for Sydney, these advantages will be compromised unless the broader transport system is connected in a way that gives all Sydneysiders—no matter where they live—access to these opportunities.
Metro rail is undoubtedly a costly investment, but the long-term economic and social returns cannot be ignored. A key way to link a significant portion of Sydney to the new airport is to get on with the job of planning and committing to the construction of the Metro missing link from St Marys to Tallawong.
At the same time, the State Government is pushing for higher housing density in the Hills district along the existing Metro Northwest corridor. To support this growth, it must commit to building the Metro missing link. This connection would not only open up airport access but also unlock job opportunities for all those who already rely on the Metro Northwest.
The new Western Sydney International Airport is a game-changer—not just for Western Sydney, but for the entire metropolitan area. Let’s not squander the immense economic and employment opportunities it presents by taking a shortsighted approach to transport.
The NSW Government should immediately plan, budget for, and deliver the St Marys to Tallawong missing link. It’s time to get on with the job.
Teens to get reality check behind the wheel
MORE than 28,600 NSW high school students were taken from the classroom to crash scenes at Australia’s largest road safety event, bstreetsmart.
Founded in 2004, bstreetsmart is the brainchild of Westmead Hospital trauma nurses Julie Seggie and Stephanie Wilson.
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As a nurse I am passionate about wanting to keep our youth out of our trauma units and this program empowers students to make safer choices as drivers and passengers, Julie said.
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“bstreetsmart uses interactive experiences, real-life crash survivor stories, and engaging content to deliver a powerful learning experience—building a safer future for everyone,” Julie said.
Now in its 21st year, the event continues to help educate young people about the responsibilities and potential risks of being a passenger and getting behind the wheel through an engaging, eye-opening experience focusing on awareness and choices.
The three-day event is a collaboration between a range of state departments and organisations who
come together annually for the shared purpose of preventing teenagers being injured on our roads.
Reinforcing the relevance of events like these, the Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley says more than 200 people have died on our roads already this year.
“That’s more than 200 individuals taken too soon, countless families destroyed and communities impacted forever. If we want to see a change in these numbers, then it’s driver behaviour that must change,” Minister Catley said.
The students aged from 16 to 18 years old, from 221 schools, observed first-hand the consequences of a road crash, as they participated in the captivating education event at Sydney Olympic Park, from 5 to 7 August.
The bstreetsmart events have become well-known and respected for its real-life simulated crash scenarios and personal testimonials, which aim to help educate the next generation of drivers in NSW.
Minister for Health, Ryan Park says the program is an example of the knowledge and innovation coming
This program teaches students early that they have a responsibility to themselves, their passengers and everyone else on the road every time they get behind the wheel, Minister Catley said.
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out of Western Sydney LHD.
“I am incredibly proud of this program created in Western Sydney that has been educating our young people on road safety for more than two decades,” Minister Park said.
In its inaugural year, bstreetsmart hosted 10 schools and was attended by 464 students.
Approximately 300,000 NSW high school students have attended bstreetsmart during its history, helping educate them to make safer choices on the road.
bstreetsmart truly is a oneof-a-kind road safety program for our teens and will have a lasting impact in helping to reduce the overrepresentation of young drivers in traumatic road accidents, Minister Park said. “ “
In 2024, young adults aged between 17–25 years old represented just 13 percent of all licence holders but accounted for 20 percent of all drivers and riders involved in fatal crashes.
Transport for NSW has supported the event since 2015 and is contributing $310,000 to this year’s program.
For more information, visit www.bstreetsmart.org
Innovation Roof Restoration
Hustled Pilates opens their second studio at Redbank Village North Richmond
REDBANK Village North Richmond has welcomed a new health and wellness destination with the opening of Hustled Pilates, a modern, fully equipped Pilates studio offering a fresh and innovative approach to fitness.
After successfully launching their first studio in St Marys in February 2024, owners have now expanded and opened their second studio in Redbank, officially opening their doors in July 2025. This marks an exciting new chapter for the Hustled brand, bringing their unique combination of instructorled and video-guided classes to the Hawkesbury community.
Hustled Pilates is the Hawkesbury’s first 24/7 Pilates studio, giving locals the flexibility to train whenever it suits their lifestyle. Members can choose from a variety of instructorled sessions or use state-of-the-art reformer machines with on-demand, video-guided classes — available any time, day or night. “We are passionate about making Pilates accessible, flexible, and enjoyable for everyone,” commented co-owner Julie Fing.
The new Redbank studio features premium reformer beds, a welcoming and modern fit-out, and a focus on providing a personalised experience.
With a strong belief in helping members achieve a healthier, stronger, and more balanced life, Hustled Pilates is already attracting attention from both fitness newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. “Whether you’re a beginner or have years of experience,
we offer classes and programs to suit all levels and fitness goals,” said coowner Chloe Carpenter.
North Richmond residents now have another reason to love their local shopping and lifestyle precinct — with Hustled Pilates adding to the
growing list of boutique businesses making the community a vibrant place to live, work, and play.
For more information, visit www. hustled.com.au or drop into the Redbank Village located at Shop 2, 41d Yobarnie Ave, North Richmond.
New Mount Druitt Campus Opens as Macquarie Community College Marks 75 Years of Lifelong Learning
MACQUARIE Community College has opened a new campus in the heart of Mount Druitt as part of its 75th anniversary, reinforcing its long-term commitment to delivering inclusive, affordable, and community-connected adult education across Western Sydney.
Located at 3 Mount Street and surrounded by key community and employment services, the 450m² site features eight flexible learning spaces, offering a welcoming environment for diverse learners. The campus also includes a hospitality training room and café, breakout space, staff room and reception area, and will cater for up to 150 students per day across its range of programs.
Minister for Skills and Training
Andrew Giles officially opened the new campus, welcoming it as an exciting new chapter for Macquarie Community College.
“For 75 years, Macquarie Community College has served the communities of Northern and Western Sydney, providing adult community education to meet the needs of locals. From literacy, numeracy and English classes to job readiness programs and short courses, the College is equipping students with the skills and confidence to pursue work and further study,” he said.
“The opening of the Mount Druitt campus enables the College to reach even more students as part of local hub of community and employment services.”
The new Mount Druitt campus will serve as a central hub for placebased adult education, offering highly regarded programs, with zero or low fee options available for eligible students using the College’s access to Commonwealth and State Government funding.
The College will offer around 15 weekly classes spanning from
foundational skills and pathway programs such as English speaking, reading and writing skills, digital literacy and computer skills, job readiness. It will also provide full Certificate and Diploma qualifications that lead to employment in aged care, disability, business, childcare, and hospitality.
“Opening this campus in Mount Druitt is another step in our 75-year journey of meeting communities where they are and offering the kind of learning that changes lives,” said Ian Maitland, Chair of the College Board.
“We are proud to continue building better futures through quality training and education right here in Western Sydney.”
In line with the College’s commitment to diversity, growth, and community care, the new campus will also deliver the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program, a vital service that helps adults build foundational skills to support their transition into work or further study.
This reflects the College’s enduring focus on working with people facing barriers and disadvantage — empowering them to access real opportunities through inclusive, quality education and training.
This expansion builds on Macquarie Community College’s legacy in the area, having delivered the Adult Migrant English Program in Mount Druitt from 1998 to 2017, and broadening their offering to Vocational Education and Training programs in Mount Druitt over the past 10 years. The new campus offers increased capacity, modern facilities, and proximity to transport and local services, making it a vital educational resource for residents across Greater Western Sydney.
“We’re here to help people upskill, connect and thrive, and have a wellearned reputation in supporting migrants, carers, career changers or mature learners to achieve their goals,” said CEO Theresa Collignon. “We serve learners often overlooked by mainstream systems, delivering programs in welcoming learning environments built around their real needs, where all learners feel welcomed, respected and supported.”
Guided by its vision of stronger communities through the power of learning and connection, the College stands at the forefront of communitydriven education in Greater Sydney. Its focus on place-based, employmentlinked training is designed to support social inclusion, tackle skills shortages, and drive local economic progress—ensuring learners can move from training to meaningful work.
To learn more or enrol, visit www.macquarie.nsw.edu.au
Mount Druitt Opening, Theresa Collingnon.
Stephen Bali, Andrew Giles, Theresa Collingnon.
Blacktown Arts launches a night of music curated by
Esky
Escandor
BLACKTOWN Arts invites you to SUBMERGE.FM, an immersive evening of music at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre on Friday 22 August 2025, from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Curated by musician Esky Escandor with heart and community at its core, this music night brings together some of western Sydney’s most exciting pop and ambient acts. SUBMERGE. FM creates a welcoming space where artists and audiences connect through an intimate sonic experience.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting said, “Western Sydney is setting the pace in music and culture, and Blacktown is at the heart of it.
SUBMERGE.FM puts our local talent front and centre and I invite everyone to come along, discover new artists, and enjoy an evening that reflects the energy and diversity of our city.”
Headlining the event is Chris Vincent, a singer-songwriter from western Sydney, whose alt-pop sound and heartfelt lyricism channels the intimacy of artists like Steve Lacy and Grentperez.
Also taking the stage is 2DAWCOUPE (Tigue and Dylan from mel.wav), whose ambient soundscapes and infectious grooves are rooted in the DIY ethos of western Sydney’s underground and the Area House movement.
brings her signature dark pop to the night, combining soulful vocals with atmospheric beats. Rounding out the lineup is Heart Armour, whose cinematic music speaks powerfully to the experiences of their community, cementing them as one of the region’s most compelling new voices.
On your way in, pick up some
from the wide array of affordable Blacktown CBD food businesses and get ready to lose yourself in the sounds of western Sydney.
EVENT DETAILS
The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre Friday 22 August 2025, 6 pm to 9 pm $15 tickets, BYO snacks.
CROSSWORD
Join us from 6 pm on Friday 22 August, register via Blacktown Art’s website.
For more information visit: https:// blacktownarts.com.au/seasons/ winter-2025/
This project is presented by Blacktown Arts and supported by Blacktown City Council.
Home chores (9)
Draws through a straw (5)
Pertaining to the most populous country (7)
Flightless bird (7)
Saliva (7)
Not lawful (7)
Raising (9)
The front part of a stair (5)
A piece of armor to protect thighs (5)
History of a word (9)
Fortified wine (7)
Hunting guide (7)
Mind an infant (7)
Occurring at the beginning (7)
Made easier to bear (5)
Prolonged unfulfilled desires (9)
(5)
(7)
3 A daughter of Agamemnon (Greek mythology) (7)
4 Overweight (5)
5 Wittingly (9)
6 Pioneer (7)
7 Flinches (7)
8 Academic (9)
13 May be computed (9)
14 Imprecisely (9)
17 Flashing lights (7)
18 Having passed (7)
20 Personal belief (7)
21 Applause (7)
23 A Eurasian goat-like antelope (5)
24 Runs an engine in neutral (5)
Sepora
A Builder from St Marys
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
SLEEPING in the churchyard of St Mary Magdalene at St Marys is Benjamin and Elizabeth Loveday. Benjamin was born in 1822 the son of Henry John Loveday born in 1794 at Great Yarmouth, Norfolk in England and Maria Finch. Ben married Elizabeth Blackburn in Tunstead, Norfolk and they came out to Australia as assisted immigrants as farm labourers in November 1852 on the “John Gray” from Beeston. Their only child Henry Benjamin was born in 1853 and christened in St Mary Magdalene church. He married Annie Hazelwood Gully at Casino in 1882. In October 1894 Henry’s mother Elizabeth fell ill with bronchitis after being well for a considerable time. The family called for Dr Scott who came at once and pronounced the case a serious one and continued daily attendance and she improved although still very weak. The neighbours did all that they could, prominent among them was Sarah the wife of William Hackett who was in constant attendance but by November Elizabeth was sinking fast and couldn’t last much longer and she passed away. Ben died in January 1898. It was said that “he mixed but little in public matters but attended at all times to the Church of England of which body he was a strong adherent” Ben was determined to go fishing and had secured some bait but later on be complained of diarrhea and was given a dose of chlordane that relieved him, but other problems plagued him, and other remedies were applied. Feeling better he retired to bed early with Henry in attendance at intervals. At 2 o’clock he gave Ben a drink and enquired how he was, and Ben said he was better. At 4 o’clock however on entering the room he found his father dead. Ben’s remains arrived at the Church and Reverend A C Corlette conducted a short service and Ben’s favorite hymns sung and his remains were interred alongside those of Elizabeth. Ben was a builder of considerable repute. It was said he built “Tregear” the residence of John King Lethbridge and in company with Joseph Henry Sainsbury (another St Marys’ builder of repute) they built Neale’s first store. His own home was built by him and his orchard and garden that he took so much pride in and attended to by him turned into a good deal of money in later years. Ben was strictly honorable in all his dealings and he and his wife had spent their whole lives quietly. They made many friends and at the time of his death he had not a single enemy that was known of. In October 1899 their son Henry was killed in a fatal accident at Parramatta due to the removal of the large stone pillars that supported the portico of the old Parramatta Courthouse. These were destined for Church Street for a new business premises for Mr C G Hatte a well-known draper and clothier of Newtown. The fatality occurred during the lifting of the last pillar weighing over six tons and being loaded onto a trolly for removal. The pillar was encased in boards and on chains being lowered when the heel of the stay belonging to the crane kicked. This heel was backed up by a number of heavy stones and a massive stone pier 10 ft high and almost 4 ft square, the stones each weighing about 4 cwt. The kick from the heel of the crane lifted the pier and it toppled over into the street with the stones falling apart as it
fell. It crashed through a frail barricade and landed on Henry who was looking at the operation but not realising the danger of standing near the pier and one stone passed over him and struck him in the face and two or three other stones struck him and he fell under them. The stone weight inflicted injuries that extended from his pelvis down the right leg that was crushed almost flat. He was taken to Parramatta District Hospital where he died. An inquest was held where the contractor William Partridge who saw Henry pinned down by the stones stating that Henry’s shoulders were up against a telegraph post and the lower part of his body was pinned down. The jury retired for half an hour and a verdict to the effect that Henry met his death accidentally through the falling of a stone pier and that there was not sufficient evidence to show negligence. Henry’s body was brought from Parramatta by road and taken to his residence at St Marys. Reverend Dixon Hudson held a short service at Henry’s house and about 4 o’clock the funeral started on its way to the cemetery with the Reverend heading the procession. Messrs George T Bennett, Charles, John and William Hackett acted as pall bearers with over 200 people following in the procession. On arrival at the cemetery Henry’s body was taken into St Mary Magdalene Church where the Reverend conducted the service, and the company sang the hymn “ Thy will be done.” The coffin was then taken to the grave at the church and the last rites read. Conspicuous among the mourners were Mr J McGary (representative of the firm of Edwards and Company that Henry was connected to), Mr W W Campbell from St Marys and proprietor of Campbell’s large furniture warehouse in Sydney. A meeting of a Provisional Committee was held at the Temperance Hall in St Marys for the purpose of considering the best means of assisting Ben’s wife Annie Loveday. The Mayor Michael Long presided and those present were Messrs Andrew Thompson, three members of the Hackett family, John King Lethbridge (Jnr), George T Bennett, Mr Laird, Mr G Quinn, and Reverend Dixon Hudson. An apology was read from Mr Guild. Charles Hackett was appointed Secretary and Treasurer and it was resolved to issue subscription lists and promises of collections in their districts that included the Mayor, Messrs J K Lethbridge (Jun), Andrew Thompson, Charles Hackett and G Quinn. They also asked the lady members of the Benevolent Society to collect in the township and also to seek the co-operation of the Mayors of Mulgoa, Castlereagh, Windsor and Richmond. Over £20 had already been collected and promised in Parramatta and more than 200 tickets in connection with a concert to be held there. The proprietor of the Nepean Times promised to assist in any way in his power. Mr A H Hatte manager for the Parramatta branch of the Commonwealth Bank promised to raise a fund for the assistance and in addition he offered to give 2½ per cent on the takings as soon as it was fully opened. Photo of Ben Loveday’s home on the Highway courtesy of Penrith Library.
Sources: Loveday Family from ancestry, England & Wales Marriage Registration Index, Family Search (Mormon Site), Trove, Nepean Times.
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
ALEX SONCINI
AWhen the Bank Says No — There Are Still Options
FTER the recent rate reductions, many Australians expected some relief. But with several lenders slow to pass on the cuts, mortgage holders have been left frustrated — and for those seeking new finance, the disappointment often goes further. Every year, thousands of Australians are refused a loan by their banks, leaving them without the support they need to move forward with their financial goals.
Being told “no” by a bank often feels like the end of the road. But in reality, it’s just the beginning of finding the right solution. Banks operate under strict rules and usually take a one-size-fits-all approach. If your income doesn’t fit neatly into their boxes — for example, if you’re self-employed, work part-time, or earn through the gig economy — your chances of approval can be slim, even if you’re financially responsible.
Australians Are Looking Beyond the Banks
That’s why more and more people are turning to mortgage brokers. In fact, brokers now write nearly three-quarters of all home loans in Australia — the
highest level on record. This trend reflects the trust Australians are placing in brokers to deliver more flexible, tailored outcomes that the banks can’t always provide.
Unlike a bank, which can only offer its own products, brokers can access a wide range of lenders, from the big four banks to smaller banks and nonbank lenders. This means more choice, more flexibility, and a greater chance of finding the right solution for your situation.
Real Choice, Real Outcomes
Recent industry research shows that only 36.7% of broker-originated loans go to major banks. The rest are placed with smaller lenders or non-bank providers — proof that brokers are helping Australians access opportunities beyond the traditional banking system.
The broker channel also makes a major contribution to the wider economy, adding $4.1 billion in value and supporting 37,349 jobs across the country.
A Better Way Forward
When your bank says no, that doesn’t mean your financial journey has to stop. It simply means you
need a different approach — one that recognises your unique situation and matches you with the right lender.
At Wealthwiz, we understand that every client is different. We take the time to listen, to explore alternatives, and to guide you through options that banks may never tell you about. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or looking for new opportunities, we can help turn a “no” into the right “yes.”
Call Alex at Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177 today. The sooner we understand your story, the sooner we can find the solution that works for you.
“Industry data and statistics referenced in this publication are drawn from the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) 2025 Value of Mortgage and Finance Broking Report. Lender terms and conditions apply. 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 tax advice.”
Gymnasts contests 2025 World Games
BY NOEL ROWSELL
AUSTRALIA was well represented at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu (China) by 20-year-old Breanah Cauchi (Londonderry) and 24-yearold Ethan McGuiness (Glenmore Park). The event is the pinnacle international event for non-Olympic sports.
Breanah and Ethan both belong to the Kachan School of Tumbling and Performance (KSTP) in Windsor
and brought a wealth of international experience to the team, having both competed at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham (USA), and have numerous World Cup and World Championship appearances between them.
Breanah started gymnastics at three years of age and was one of KSTPs first students when the club was founded in 2009.
She has won multiple state and National titles, including most recently the 2025 Senior Women’s
Tumbling National Title. Also Bronze in Women’s Tumbling at the 2022 World Games - in her first year as a senior and only her second senior international competition.
Ethan Started gymnastics to learn a backflip for rugby league. He won silver in 11/12 Men’s Tumbling at the 2013 World Age Group Championships (WAGC) in Sofia, Bulgaria and gold in 13/14 Men’s Tumbling at the 2015 WAGC. Ethan broke his leg at the 2017 Australian Gymnastics Championships and
considers his recovery to be one of his greatest achievements.
He broke the world difficulty record at the AERE World Cup in Rimini, Italy in May 2022, also winning gold, then went on to become the Senior World Champion at the 2022 World Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria. Ethan reached the bronze medal decider in his event at the World Games, before finishing 4th, whilst Breanah was selected as a reserve for the Final in her event, finishing in 5th place.
Breanah Cauchi. Photos courtesy of Winkipop Media / Gymnastics Australia
Ethan McGuinness.
Strong field announced for 2025 Fore Golf Junior Matchplay
BY NOEL ROWSELL
MORE than 70 of the State’s best young golfers will converge on Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club from October 9–10 for the 2025 Fore Golf Junior Matchplay, one of the most anticipated events on the Jack Newton Junior Golf calendar.
The two-day knockout tournament will see the top eight players in each age group, determined by their stroke averages from all JNJG and Golf Australia ranking events over the past ten months, go head-to-head in match play battles until a champion is crowned.
This Year’s Qualifiers from western Sydney are: Girls 16–17 Years - Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC); Boys 12 Years - Hunter McMillan (Penrith GC); Boys 17 Years - Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC), Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC), Matthew Nathan (Lynwood CC).
Local students win selection in Australian Merit Golf Team
BY NOEL ROWSELL
NEW SOUTH WALES has showcased its dominance at the 2025 School Sport Australia 18 Years & Under Golf Championships, which were held at Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club and Bribie Island Golf Club last week, with three local western Sydney-based juniors helping guide NSW in an outstanding all-round performance.
Chayse Thorpe (Colo HS) and Toby Farrar (Australian Christian College, Marsden Park) were both members of the NSW Boys team, whilst Sahara Hillman-Varma (Australian Christian College) was a member of the NSW Girls team.
Both NSW teams claimed victory in the team Stroke Play events, with the boys team going one better to also secure the team Match Play title. The girls narrowly missed a clean sweep,
finishing runners-up in the Match Play by just half a point.
The boys Match Play was highly competitive, with NSW drawing Queensland 3-3, edging out Western Australia 3.5-2.5, defeating the ACT 5-1, delivering a commanding 6-0 win over South Australia, and then defeating Victoria 4-2 to claim the crown.
The girls faced a tough battle in Match Play, going down to Queensland 4.5-1.5, before bouncing back with wins over Western Australia 4.5-1.5, South Australia 5-1, the ACT 5.5-0.5, and Victoria 5-1.
Chayse was undefeated in the Match Play, winning all five of his matches after finishing tied 9th in the Stroke Play, whilst Toby won four of
his five Match Play matches, after finishing 2nd in the Stroke Play.
The strong results across the board saw NSW crowned ‘Overall Team Champions’. Cooper Giddings, Camilla Kim, Annalese McKee, Chayse and Toby were all subsequently named in the All Australian Merit team, following their impressive individual performances.
Top teams decided in Eric Apperly Shield Pennant
THE final round of the 2025 Eric Apperly Shield Pennant competition was held on Sunday 17th August, with several western Sydney players now headed to the playoffs, albeit not with local clubs.
St Michaels GC finished at the top of Section 1 and as the leading qualifier from the preliminary rounds, will enjoy a bye as six rival clubs contest elimination playoff matches.
Chayse Thorpe (Richmond) and Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge) both secured strong 6/5 wins for Concord, as it rolled Avondale 4/2 to claim the Section Three title.
The match between The Australian Gold (Darcy Mackay – Twin Creeks) and Cromer was washed out, resulting in The Australian claiming the Section One title.
NSW Gold (Blake Hodges –Erskine Park) enjoyed a 6-0 win over Monash to claim the Section Four title.
This Sunday’s elimination finals will be held at Camden and Lynwood, with Pymble playing Castle Hill at Lynwood, The Australian Gold playing Avondale Silver at Camden (Studley Park) and Concord Gold playing Ryde-Parramatta at Lynwood.
The three winning clubs will join St Michaels the following Sunday (31st August) at Lakeside Camden for the semi-finals, with the two winners then to meet at Bonnie Doon on Sunday 7th September.
Other local results in Eric Apperly were Stonecutters Ridge 5.5-0.5 over Penrith, whilst Richmond hosted Section Five and enjoyed a bye.
The fourth round of the T.L. Warren and W. Gibson Pennant competition was also held on Sunday, with the following results.
T.L. Warren (home teams listed first) - Hurstville down 2/1
to Fox Hills, Springwood 1.5/1/5 with Asquith, Penrith 3/0 over Cumberland, Wallacia 2/1 over Massey Park, The Coast 2/1 over Twin Creeks, Stonecutters RidgeCabramatta TBA, Lynwood 2/1 over Kareela, Bardwell Valley - Leonay TBA.
W. Gibson - Hurstville 2.5/0.5 over Fox Hills, Springwood down 3/0 to Massey Park, Penrith 1.5/1.5 with Cumberland, The Coast down 2/1 to Twin Creeks, Stonecutters RidgeCabramatta TBA, Lynwood 3/0 over Kareela, Bardwell Valley 1.5/1.5 with Leonay.
NSW All Schools Golf team. Photo by Golf NSW. Back Row: Toby Farrar third from left, Chayse Thorpe far right. Front Row: Sahara Hillman-Varma second from right
Chayse Thorpe. Fle photo courtesy of Golf NSW
Savannah Webb. Photos courtesy of JNJG Ti Fox.
Blacktown City Edge Closer to Finals After Mixed Fortnight
BY LIAM BELL
IT was another mixed fortnight for Blacktown City, who backed up a narrow defeat to Sydney United 58 with a much-needed win over the Western Sydney Wanderers Academy. The results leave Mark Crittenden’s side sitting in fifth place on the NPL NSW ladder with two rounds to go, firmly in the finals mix but still with a job to do.
Blacktown travelled to the Sydney United Sports Centre in midweek for their Round 27 clash, where the hosts ended an eight-game winless streak with a 1-0 victory. It was a hard-fought encounter with little to separate the two sides, which was perhaps fitting given how close they sit on the ladder at this late stage of the season.
Mitchell Mallia looked lively early, beating defenders with his trademark footwork. However, Blacktown found themselves on the wrong side of the referee’s book in the first half, with Nick O’Brien and Daniel McHugh both collecting yellow cards. Jakob Cresnar also survived a nervous moment when his tackle in the box went unpunished.
Despite flashes of promise, neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval. Sydney United emerged sharper after the restart, keeping possession and asking questions of the Blacktown defence. Adam Berry went closest for the visitors with a well-hit strike that forced Vedran Janjetovic into a fine save.
In the end, it was United who found the decisive moment. With seven minutes remaining, a corner from Richie Darko was met by the towering header of Adrian Vlastelica to put the home side in front. Blacktown pushed late but could not find a reply, leaving Sydney United with a crucial three points and Crittenden’s men ruing a missed opportunity.
That defeat heightened the importance of Blacktown’s Round 28 fixture against the last-placed Wanderers Academy at Landen Stadium. In front of their home fans, they produced a controlled performance to claim a 1-0 win, with substitute Reuben Awaritefe the hero
against his former club.
The Wanderers included several senior A-League squad members in their lineup, but it was the hosts who looked more threatening in the first half. Mallia again led the charge with his direct running, while Travis Major’s deliveries from wide areas created openings. The visitors survived a scare when Edmun Haddad struck the crossbar early on, and Mallia was unfortunate to limp off before half-time with injury.
The second half continued in a similar fashion, with Blacktown enjoying more territory while the Wanderers struggled to create clear chances. Berry tested the keeper from range, but it took until the 82nd minute for the deadlock to be broken. Awaritefe latched onto a loose ball, sliced through the Wanderers’ scrambling defence, and calmly lifted his finish over Tristan Vidackovic to seal the points.
Crittenden praised his side’s resilience after the match, noting the importance of a clean sheet and a steady performance at such a pivotal stage of the season. “We were confident,” he said. “We knew that if we kept everything tight, it was only going to be one or two (goals) to win it and that’s exactly what it was.”
The win moved Blacktown back on track heading into the final two rounds, and their finals fate is now largely in their own hands. Sitting fifth on the ladder, six points clear of
seventh-placed Sydney Olympic, they are well placed to secure a spot in the top six. Olympic face a daunting run-in against Sydney United and second-placed APIA Leichhardt, while Blacktown take on Sydney FC Academy and Wollongong Wolves, both below them on the ladder.
While nothing is ever guaranteed in the NPL, the equation is relatively simple. A win against Sydney FC Academy this Friday night at Rockdale would be enough to secure Blacktown’s finals football, setting up a likely week one clash with Rockdale Ilinden. Even if results elsewhere remain live, Blacktown would still need to lose both their remaining matches and see Olympic win twice against tough opposition to have any chance of being knocked out of the top six.
The context makes this week’s clash with Sydney FC an important one. The Academy side have shown flashes of quality throughout the season, but Blacktown will be expected to impose themselves. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30pm at Rockdale Ilinden Sports Centre, with the match broadcast live and free on the Football NSW YouTube channel.
Should Blacktown confirm their finals place, their Round 30 home fixture against Wollongong Wolves at Landen Stadium could prove to be a more relaxed occasion. With Wollongong unable to overtake them on the ladder, it would serve as an
opportunity to build momentum and fine-tune ahead of the knockout stage. That clash is set for Sunday, the 31st of August at 3pm in Seven Hills. It has been a season of ups and downs for Blacktown, with inconsistency frustrating at times but key results keeping them in contention. The narrow loss at Sydney United followed by the gritty win over the Wanderers was a snapshot of their campaign in miniature. As the finals approach, the focus now shifts to finding consistency at just the right time.
If Blacktown can get the job done against Sydney FC this week, they will be heading into the postseason with confidence and a clear goal: to make their mark once again in the NPL NSW finals series.
Nicholas O’Brien vs Sydney United.
Blacktown City vs Sydney United. Photos courtesy of Not24Get
Daniel McHugh vs Sydney United.
Friday, 22 August 2025
Three Blacktown baseball players chosen for selection camp
BY NOEL ROWSELL
BLACKTOWN’S Ethan Bickel, Ashton Kennedy and Lachlan Robinson are among 33 of Australia’s best young baseball players who are currently on the Gold Coast (QLD) for a six-day selection camp for the 2015 Under 18 World Cup.
From August 17-23, the players will be run through rigorous training by national selectors, with the aim of cracking the squad to play in the upcoming international event. The camp is run daily at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club and is proudly supported by Invest Gold Coast.
The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) U18 World Cup runs September 5-14 in Okinawa, Japan. It is considered one of the premier junior baseball events, with big name major league players like Shohei Ohtani, Clayton Kershaw and Francisco Lindor, all athletes who have played in this event previously.
The 33 players are made up of players from across the country, with the final 20-man roster to be named by August 24. Players fly out to Japan on August 31.
Nahlous and Favelle Top 10 results at QLD Raceway
BY NOEL ROWSELL
JJ Nahlous (Glenwood) and Jack Favelle (Cattai) have continued to impress in their debut seasons in the Superbike category, both finishing with Top Ten placings at the recent round of the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK), which was held at Queensland Raceway on August 10.
With Race One abandoned due to oil on the track, JJ subsequently finished 7th and 6th in the remaining two races, whilst Jack finished 10th and 8th.
JJ said, “Overall a mixed, at times frustrating, weekend - not quite being able to pull off the results we’ve been working for. A couple of mistakes cost us time in Race 2, but we refocused ahead of Race 3 and had a much smoother ride, finishing the day off in P6.
“We’ve been working super hard in the lead up to this round, and I’m incredibly happy with the package the team has put together for me as we move towards the back end of the season, with 3 rounds to go. This round has highlighted what we need to focus on next and we’re really looking forward to being able to bring it all together at Phillip Island next month.
“Thank you again to all of my incredible sponsors, supporters and friends that have my back and make all of this possible.”
Jack said, “What an awesome weekend, to be able to race alongside the Supercars Championship was awesome, what a crowd, what an environment!
“Definitely struggled a bit this weekend. Race 2, P10: I was trying a lot of different things but couldn’t make anything work. Race 3, P8: We decided to try something drastic with the setup, to see if it would change anything for me, the team did a great job and I had a much better feeling in race two and was able to push on and be much more consistent throughout the race.
“Happy to have learnt this and it will definitely be good in the future”
JJ ranked 6th for the round and is ranked 8th for the season, whilst Jack finished 8th for the round and is ranked 9th for the season. The next meeting is at Phillip Island on 6-7th September, where the Superbikes will be joined by Superbike Masters, SuperSports 600, SuperSports 300, Yamaha R3 Cup and the Oceania Junior Cup.
Ethan Bickel on the pitcher’s mound. Photo courtesy of Hugh Whittle / Baseball Australia
Jack Favelle #33 and JJ Nahlous #20 (below). Photos courtesy of Endorphin Media