The 2025 Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo – for all the family
EVERYONE in the earthmoving business knows how important it is to stay right up-to-date with the latest machinery, tools and technology.
The contracting market is competitive. However, whilst there’s no shortage of online advice, information and experts out there who are willing to share their knowledge, there is no substitute for face-to-face time with people who understand the business challenges you face.
Local small business owners and contractors who visit the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo will find themselves in good company. It’s a great place to connect with industry professionals, potential clients, and other businesses. Networking at this top industry event can pay off handsomely by leading to increased business opportunities.
See the latest
Expo visitors will see all the latest industry trends in technology, attachments, trailers, mowers and specialised vehicles, as well as seeing what the competitors are doing.
Since it was established in 2015, the Expo has proven to be a highly effective annual event for small and large businesses to keep up to date with the latest in machinery, tools, finance and much more.
Visitors benefit because many exhibitors choose this event as a springboard for releasing and demonstrating their latest products and technologies, helping to establish themselves as leaders in innovation within the industry.
Networking opportunities
Another valuable aspect of the expo is the opportunity for visitors to meet with industry associates and catch up with potential new suppliers and customers.
The Expo was established as a result of members of the earthmoving industry collaborated in creating Diesel Dirt & Turf to share and inform its members about the latest equipment, technology and services.
The Expo continues to attract a huge number of enthusiastic industry visitors.
Onsite product specialists
At the National Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo, factory specialists, suppliers’ technicians and engineers are in attendance and are happy to answer questions, demonstrate the latest innovations and tell you everything
you need for when you are ready to upgrade your equipment.
Great deals on used gear
If you are in the market for great value used equipment, the Pickles auction held on the Saturday the Expo is always well attended, and you have the opportunity to secure some excellent deals on that special piece of machinery.
The Expo runs for three big days and the whole family can enjoy the great food offerings, music and entertainment throughout the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo, whilst you and your team benefit from the equipment demonstrations, conviviality and networking opportunities.
For the fifth year, Komatsu Australia is again the Gold Sponsor of the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo with supporter Pickles, media sponsor Machines4U
and associate sponsors NAWIC, Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club, VelociWrapper, NEXGEN and Sany taking advantage of this promotional opportunity.
Check the dates
The Sydney Dragway at Eastern Creek offers visitors to the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo a comfortable experience. There is easy access and plenty of free paved car parking.
Note in your calendar: Friday 16th, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May 2025 at the Sydney Dragway, Ferrers Road, Eastern Creek, New South Wales. Entry is just $18.21 per adult and entry is free for children under 16 years. You can buy your tickets on line . To enquire or book an exhibitor site, contact the Expo manager, Marti on 0411 648 465 or apply online at www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au
Great Western Highway night time road closure in Rooty Hill
THERE will be changed traffic conditions on the Great Western Highway in Rooty Hill at night on Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 May 2025 with contingency on Monday 12 and Tuesday 13 May 2025, including:
• temporary full road closure on the Great Western Highway westbound between Wallgrove Road and Brabham Drive
• temporary full road closure on the
Great Western Highway eastbound between Wallgrove Road and Rudders Street
• closure of M7 Motorway northbound on-ramp at the Great Western Highway
• closure of M7 Motorway southbound off-ramp at the Great Western Highway
• northbound and southbound right lane closures on the M7 Motorway
near the work site
• reduced speed limit from 80km/h to 40km/h along the M7 Motorway and Great Western Highway, near the work sites.
This work will take place between 10pm and 4am.
Vehicles travelling under a permit must not travel off the approved route listed in their permit unless an updated permit is obtained from the National
Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
Please keep to the speed limits and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs.
Transport for NSW thanks road users for their patience during this time.
For the latest traffic updates across the network download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.
GLOW
at Sydney Zoo is back, like never before – Get your first look
GLOW is back, and it’s lighting up Sydney Zoo like never before! Sydney’s most anticipated light festival returns to Sydney Zoo in Eastern Creek from 9–31 May.
This year, GLOW is shining brighter than ever before, featuring over 200 brand-new animal lanterns and interactive light sculptures, handcrafted from enough fabric to cover more than six football fields. These vibrant works of art have been brought to life through a creative collaboration between local and international artists. Each lantern is meticulously hand-painted and paired with immersive soundscapes and lighting to create an unforgettable journey through colour, light, and imagination.
Guests will follow the immersive GLOW Light Walk, venturing through a glowing path of wonder. Step through the jaws of a colossal crocodile, slide through the tentacles of a towering octopus, and watch hundreds of illuminated butterflies flutter in a dazzling display of motion. Along the way, don’t miss the Smooth FM Roller Rink, the magical aquarium after-dark experience, and the chance to explore the largest Reptile and Nocturnal House in the world.
The excitement continues in the vibrant GLOW Zone, where guests can
enjoy thrilling rides, plenty of FREE activities, and endless Instagramworthy moments. Light up a glowing heart in a rhythmic drumming race, make music on a giant walkable piano, and slide through the colourful Carnival Cruise Line Funcastle. Don’t
cemented its place as Sydney’s biggest ticketed light festival. GLOW also has a profound impact on the region’s economy, driving tourism, creating jobs, and supporting businesses across Western Sydney.
Set against the unique backdrop of Sydney Zoo in Eastern Creek, GLOW is more than just a light show — it’s where wildlife, art, and imagination come together. It’s an experience like no other and the perfect night out for all ages.
forget to take in the view from the glowing 7NEWS Ferris Wheel, then grab a bite from a range of food trucks or unwind at the GLOW Bar.
Drawing more than 100,000 visitors annually and regularly selling out across its 38-night season, GLOW has
GLOW at Sydney Zoo is also an accessible and inclusive event, designed for varying levels of mobility with no hills or steps.
Tickets start from just $24.99 and with previous years sold out, Sydneysiders are encouraged to book early.
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From the Editor’s Desk
BY KERRIE DAVIES
The calm before the vote
AS the federal election approaches this Saturday, May 3, it feels like we’ve been in campaign mode forever — even though it’s technically only been five weeks. Many people I’ve spoken to have described the lead-up as “boring.”
That’s not necessarily a bad thing. There’s been a noticeable lack of controversy this time around — quite a reduction in the usual mud-slinging and scandal we’ve come to expect. But maybe that’s why it feels a little flat. Like a TV show without a plot twist, we’ve been waiting for a moment that never came. It turns out, many people I have spoken to like a little drama to keep them engaged.
It started out as a close race between the two major parties, but over the last couple of weeks Labor is showing as having a clear lead in most polls, and certainly on Sportsbet. Voters deciding between the two major parties are looking at who best to park their vote with based on issues such as cost of living, energy prices, buying a home, immigration and, the late-comer, WTC ceremonies. Those looking for alternatives to “the big two” appear to be mostly interested in issues like saving the country from “being too woke” or “investing more in climate change.”
As I always say — and yes, I know I harp on about it — we are incredibly lucky to live in a country where we can vote freely. It’s a right that millions around the world still fight for. Those denied a say in the running of their own country wouldn’t dream of putting a line or drawing a picture across their ballot! So, whether you’re fired up or just mildly curious, make the effort to vote — and make it count.
Here’s to Mothers
In every smile, in every tear, A mother’s love, forever near.
Her gentle touch, her warm embrace She fills our lives with endless grace.
Through sleepless nights and weary days, Her unwavering love, always stays. She guides us through both joy and sorrow, A beacon shining bright tomorrow.
In her eyes we are never wrong, In her arms, we truly belong.
With words of wisdom, soft and wise, She helps us see through cloudy skies.
On Mother’s Day, we celebrate, The love that makes us feel so great. For all the sacrifices made, In her love, we find our shade.
So here’s to mothers, near and far, Guiding us like a brilliant star.
With every heartbeat, we repay, The love that grows with every day.
ANZAC TRIBUTE
Local hero reflects on 28 years of Army Service and the meaning of ANZAC
MICK Ried is a proud Blacktown local and decorated veteran who dedicated 28 years of service to the Australian Army. He enlisted at Blacktown Army Reserves Depot in July 1990. This decision resulted in multiple overseas deployments and humanitarian operations. His journey is a testament to dedication, resilience, and commitment to both his country and community.
Mick Ried began his military career at Blacktown Depot before moving to Headquarters Transport Platoon, where he gained a number of military vehicle qualifications. In 2001, he left Blacktown and transferred to the regular Army in Townsville to undertake a trade course as a Cargo Specialist. Upon completion, he was posted to 30 Terminal Squadron in Townsville.
In January 2003, he was posted to HMAS Kanimbla’s Army Department, where he participated in numerous exercises, including operations alongside the French Foreign Forces in New Caledonia. His time aboard Kanimbla also saw him deployed to Iraq, marking one of the many significant contributions he made to Australia’s military efforts.
Between 2004 and 2006, Mick
returned to 30 Terminal Squadron and was deployed to Operation Larry Assist in response to Cyclone Larry in Innisfail. From May to September of that year, he was deployed to Timor Leste for Operation Astute. His commitment to service extended further when he was deployed again on HMAS Kanimbla for Operation Quick Step in the South Pacific and Operation Resolute for border protection.
In 2008, after serving on HMAS Kanimbla until the end of the year, he transitioned back to a Reserve Unit in Dundas, where he completed his Corporal subject courses and participated in an exchange program with the New Zealand Army. His service continued in 2019-2020 when his unit was deployed to assist with the devastating bushfires before he officially discharged after nearly three decades in uniform.
Mick’s extensive list of deployments and operations includes:
• Operation Faulkner, Iraq
• Operation Resolute
• Operation Quick Step, South Pacific
• Operation Larry Assist, North Queensland
• Operation Astute, Timor Leste
• Soldier Exchange Program, New Zealand
• Operation Bushfire Assist
His service has been recognised with numerous honours and awards, including:
• Australian Active Service Medal with ICAT & Iraq Clasps
• Iraq Campaign Medal
• Australian Service Medal with Timor Leste & South Pacific Clasps
• Emergency Service Medal with Bushfire Assist 19/20 Clasp
• Defence Long Service Medal with two five-year Clasps
• Australian Defence Medal
• Timor Leste Solidarity Medal
• Meritorious Unit Citation with Rosette
The meaning of ANZAC Day
FOR Mick, ANZAC Day holds profound significance. Each year, he supports Blacktown’s Dawn service. Mick proudly serves as the parade marshal, marching alongside fellow veterans from Western Sydney local area. During the ceremony, he takes time to reflect on his grandfather, a Scottish soldier who was killed in Europe during World War II, as well as all the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in past conflicts.
Following the Blacktown service, he travels to Sydney to participate in the main ANZAC Day march, where he reunites with former comrades and fellow veterans. In recent years, his greatest honour has been sharing this experience with his daughter and son, who have marched alongside him on different occasions.
After the march, Mick returns to Blacktown to spend time with subBranch members, swapping stories with older veterans and sharing his own experiences. One of the highlights of the day is interacting with young children who eagerly ask about his medals and their significance, some even requesting photos with him.
“To all veterans past and present, I would like to say thank you for your service to this country and your fellow Australians,” Mick says. “To those I served with throughout my career, thank you for the memories, the ups, the downs, and the laughs along the way. Let us raise a glass in honour of those who served and sacrificed.”
Mick is a proud veteran, dedicated volunteer, and respected community leader in Blacktown. As a local who has served his country with distinction, he continues to give back through his role as the Vice President of the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch. Known for his unwavering commitment to supporting fellow veterans and their families, Mick plays a vital role in organising events, advocating for veterans’ rights, and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie within the community. A devoted family man, he balances his responsibilities with the love and support of his family, always making time to lend a helping hand to those in need. His leadership, generosity, and dedication make him a highly regarded figure in Blacktown, embodying the ANZAC spirit in both service and community.
Lest we forget
ANZAC TRIBUTE
Blacktown RSL: A proud Legacy of supporting Veterans and the community
FOR decades, the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch has stood as a steadfast pillar of support for veterans, their families, and the wider Blacktown community. Through a mix of welfare initiatives, educational programs, and commemorative events, the sub-Branch continues to honour the ANZAC spirit whilst fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and connection.
Central to its mission is the Veteran Care Program, which provides former servicemen and women with access to essential services, including medical support, food assistance, and home maintenance. The sub-Branch also works tirelessly to help veterans find employment and delivers crisis support during natural disasters and emergencies.
The sub-Branch’s impact extends well beyond veteran welfare. It maintains a strong commitment to the local community, actively
engaging with schools, businesses, and public sector organisations to promote ANZAC traditions. By taking commemorative ceremonies into schools and local sporting clubs, the sub-Branch ensures younger generations remain connected to Australia’s military history and the sacrifices of those who served.
A key focus of the sub-Branch is its commitment to recognising Indigenous Australian veterans. In collaboration with the veteran-led advisory group Bullroarers, the subBranch continues to ensure Indigenous representation and acknowledgment. This dedication is also reflected in its sporting scholarship program, which honours the legacy of Indigenous veteran and Olympian John Kinsela OAM.
Preserving military history is another cornerstone of the subBranch’s work. A new military artefact display is currently being developed
at Club Blacktown. Featuring medals, uniforms, and personal relics from local veterans, the display aims to educate and inspire both the community and historians.
Despite its modest size, the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch consistently exceeds expectations in its mission to support and advocate for veterans. Its efforts ensure the ANZAC legacy lives on, the needs of former service members are met, and the community remains deeply connected to its proud military heritage.
The Blacktown RSL sub-Branch invites all members of the community to visit Club Blacktown and explore the newly dedicated military history display on level three. Together with the club, the sub-Branch has also updated display cabinets on levels one and two to preserve the personal
stories of local veterans.
As April closes, this sacred time serves as a moment to reflect, honour, and remember the brave men and women who have served our nation. Lest we forget. Kennedy
Honouring Service: A Veteran’s Reflection on ANZAC Day
FOR many Australians, ANZAC Day is a time of solemn reflection, but for one veteran, it holds a deeply personal significance.
Enlisting in the Australian Army in April 1973, Frederick (Fred) Mansour completed basic training at Kapooka before being posted to his unit, the 1st Ordnance Field Park (1OFP) at Holsworthy.
Serving until his discharge, he recalls his time with 1OFP as a crucial support role, often supporting the 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR) during training and major exercises.
To Fred, ANZAC Day means a lot. It gives him time to reflect and honour the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country free and safe. Fred gets emotional at every commemoration, listening to the both younger and older diggers share their stories and experiences.
Fred’s military service enabled him to join the Blacktown Returned Services League (RSL) sub-Branch, as a service member. Originally Fred was seeking the mateship he felt whilst serving in the Australian Army.
Later, Fred found he enjoyed working with and supporting fellow veterans. His commitment to veteran services and the Blacktown Community saw him elected Secretary of the Blacktown RSL sub-Branch. Now Fred is driven to make sure other veterans receive the recognition they deserve.
Whilst he describes his military service as uneventful, he cherishes
the good memories and strong bonds formed during those years. “It’s the memories that stay with me for life.”
Accompanying his story are two
poignant photos: one from 1973 of a 20-year-old PTE Mansour, and another taken on ANZAC Day in 2024, now 71 years old, still proudly honouring the spirit of the ANZACs. 1973
Frederick Mansour
New clinic puts culture at forefront of diabetes treatment
ANEW clinic in Western Sydney is bridging the gap and improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples with diabetes.
Western Sydney has been identified as a diabetes hotspot, with residents 1.5 times more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) clinic at the Mount Druitt Community Centre emphasises cultural support and trust as a means of improving health outcomes.
The clinic is open on Monday specifically for adults who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and have Type 1 and complex Type 2 diabetes.
WSD Endocrinologist Dr Rajini Jayaballa said the goal is to make the diabetes clinic more accessible to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Being located in a community setting improves accessibility and the fact that parking is available so easily, is welcoming,” Dr Jayaballa said.
Aunty Rita Wright of Mount Druitt has been attending the clinic since it opened last year and said the clinic helps those in her community who may be hesitant to seek medical intervention.
Aunty Rita said working with WSLHD Aboriginal Chronic Care nurse Shirley Brown ‘makes all the difference’.
“Shirley is always there for us; she explains things to us and tells us we’ve got to do it. That’s the difference, having her here. She understands us,” Aunty Rita said. “ “
WSD Nurse Practitioner Ana Murugesan said the clinic has been well received, with patients engaged with the staff and happy to come back.
Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body can’t process insulin properly or is not making enough insulin.
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, resulting in long term health complications including heart,
kidney, eye and foot damage.
NSW Health estimates the rate of diabetes in Western Sydney is 13% in adults, compared to a state average of 12%.
Data on hospital admissions in the Western Sydney area shows that nearly 20% of Aboriginal adults who
present to hospital have diabetes, compared to just 14% of nonAboriginal adults.
WSLHD Director of Aboriginal Health Strategy, Belinda Cashman, said understanding the full impact of diabetes and how to manage it can be ‘challenging’.
“Navigating a large and complex health system that may not always be culturally safe adds to the difficulty,” Belinda said.
Belinda says that working in partnership to deliver culturally appropriate healthcare can have a huge impact both on the individual and the healthcare system.
“This emphasises the crucial inclusion of Aboriginal people in the healthcare process, ensuring sustainable and culturally appropriate healthcare services,” Belinda said.
Stories of resilience and healing after bushfire
IN the summer of 2019–2020, communities across Australia experienced some of the worst bushfires in living memory: the Black Summer bushfires. The impact of these devastating events was catastrophic for individuals and communities alike. The Hawkesbury Local Government Area (LGA) was tragically the epicentre of what is now recorded as the largest bushfire in Australia’s history—the Gospers Mountain fire. Burning across an extraordinary area from Hawkesbury to Lithgow, the Hunter Valley, the Lower Hunter, Cudgegong, the Blue Mountains, and the Central Coast, it scorched over 126 million acres of land.
This June, Hawkesbury Regional Gallery presents a major exhibition three years in the making. Burnt into Memory explores the profound and complex effects of these fires on individuals and communities. Focused on stories of reflection, healing, resilience, and renewal, the exhibition brings together a powerful collection of creative expressions that examine personal experiences of the fires, community trauma and recovery, the politicisation of climate science, the importance of caring for Country, and the enduring beauty of
the natural environment.
Featuring works by 14 artists living and working within and beyond the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains region, Burnt into Memory includes artworks created both in the immediate aftermath of the fires and more recent responses.
Photographic works by artists such as Freya Jobbins and Katherine Boland will be shown alongside large sculptural pieces by Wona Bae and Charlie Lawler, dynamic works on paper from Jody Graham and Gary Shinfield, and immersive paintings from Laura Jones and Dharug woman Leanne Tobin, among others.
The exhibition will also showcase Hawkesbury City Council’s newly commissioned film Dancing with the Devil. Funded through the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program and produced by awardwinning film journalists Sarah Allely and Bill Code (Wedgetail Pictures), the film navigates the impact of the Gospers Mountain fire on local communities. Compassionate, humorous, and filled with hope, Dancing with the Devil provides a vital platform for local storytelling.
Since 2022, Hawkesbury City Council’s Arts and Culture team has worked closely with Allely and
Code, engaging with community members from Bilpin, Colo Heights, St Albans, and Mount Victoria to better understand their experiences, record oral histories, and archive their stories through film. The documentary was recently shared with these communities in a series of local screenings in late 2024 and early 2025, and forms a core component of Burnt into Memory.
Extending beyond the walls of the gallery, Burnt into Memory will also feature a specially designed school education program for Stage 3 students (Years 5 – 6), developed in partnership with the Black Dog Institute. Designed with the Hawkesbury community in mind, the program focuses on healing through creativity and can be delivered both within the exhibition space and independently by the Gallery’s art educators.
Burnt into Memory opens to the public at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery from Saturday 7 June to Sunday 17 August 2025. A community opening event will be held on Friday 6 June from 6–8 pm. Full details of the public programs accompanying the exhibition will be announced in early May.
WSD Advanced Trainee Jeremy Allen-Knott, RMO Shenaya Hitheshi Mendis, Senior Dietitian Victoria Silvestro and WSLHD Aboriginal Chronic Care Nurse Shirley Brown.
Dancing with the Devil film still.
“Freedom Park” Plan for Community
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
IN 1962 “Freedom Park” had been chosen by Mr William J Eason the Principal of St Marys High School and proposed by him at the South Creek vicinity the name for the community centre area. Mr Eason submitted his plan for public consideration and discussion this Education Week when interest is focussed on the needs of children present and future. The plan proposed is entry from Queen Street near the Bank of NSW from the Western Highway to the Sydney side of South Creek and from Dunheved to the east of the golf links. About 180 acres. The land facing Queen Street is now being developed with the assistance of the St Marys Rotary Club, the land occupied by the Scouts’ hall, the area known as Athletics Oval, the St Marys High School War Memorial Pool, the land owned by Penrith City Council extending from the Western Highway along the bank of South Creek to the railway line, the St Marys High School area and that portion of Commonwealth land lying to the north of the railway line and extending to the Dunheved golf links, a portion dedicated as “public gardens and recreation area”. The individual authorities at present controlling and developing the various sections to retain the autonomy but to develop a loose form of federation. The athletics oval area to be developed by the Leagues Club and the area to the north of the railway line to be developed by the National Fitness Association. As the St Marys High School area is the most advanced in development at present it is suggested that the facilities of the school be made more fully available after school hours, weekends and during school vacations. With the regard to this immediate development and to the use of the school by the community centre it is also suggested that a citizens committee be appointed to negotiate with the Department of Education and to operate the community centre and that a number of clubs be formed to work in afternoons from 4 p.m. and each club be supervised by a paid instructor also a superintendent be appointed. The clubs to be open to all school children of the St Marys area (State and Non-State). That provision be made for the outlying schools by the establishment of small centres and an instructor and a bus service to bring the children to the main centre and a number of clubs to be established be decided by the money available. That the clubs be financed by donations from the employees of industrial firms and business and by donations from the service clubs, by private donations and a small membership fee.
That in general the donations should be on a weekly basis. That a salary of say 30/- per hour be paid to instructors. It is apparent that for an income of £12 a week it would be possible to establish for four afternoons per week one club at St Marys High School and one club or recreation centre at for example Bennett Road school. It may be necessary at the outlying centre to organise working-bees for the quick development of the area. For the future development of the park and of the community centre with its outlying partners the following suggestions are made and hopes expressed. (a) That the gateways to the park from Queen Street and from the Western Highway should in some way commemorate the fact that South Creek is “the birthplace of a free nation”. (b) That during the 1963 celebrations of the crossing of the Blue Mountains there should be an official opening of the park. (c) That there should be no fear amongst various organisations of loss of individual authority. (d) That somewhere to the west of South Creek an area should be acquired which will provide a centre for rural pursuits such as animal husbandry, plant growing, horse-riding and other such interests. (e) That the difficulties to be encountered should, in no way, prevent us from recognising that the plan is a practical one. Mr Eason was a well-liked Headmaster with a vision. He came to St Marys High School from Penrith and was instrumental in changing the structure of learning within the school.
Source - Nepean Times Thursday 9 August 1962
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
Photo of the Demountable Buildings at St Marys High School in 1957 courtesy of State Archives NSW.
IHow to finance your home renovation
N today’s economic climate, characterised by high interest rates — currently averaging between 6% and 7% for standard variable home loans — and persistent cost-of-living pressures, many Australians are reassessing their property goals. The substantial cost of stamp duty, which can exceed $30,000 on a median-priced home in many parts of the country, has further discouraged the traditional “sell and upgrade” approach.
Instead, a growing number of homeowners are focusing on enhancing the value, functionality, and comfort of their existing properties through strategic renovations. Renovating not only sidesteps the significant transaction costs associated with buying and selling but can also deliver a strong return on investment in a stabilising property market.
If you’re looking to transform your home but are concerned about how to fund the project, there are several financing options available. These solutions — ranging from tapping into existing home equity to obtaining purpose-built renovation loans — can help you bring your renovation vision to life while managing cash flow effectively. Here are five renovation finance options to consider:
1. Equity Release / Top Up Home Loan:
This is a popular way to borrow money for renovations, involving leveraging the current value of your home. In most cases, you can borrow up to 80% of your home’s value if you own it outright, but not the full value. Keep in mind that if the cost of your renovations exceeds the available equity, you may face challenges securing additional funds if needed later in the project.
2. Construction Loan:
If you’re planning a major home makeover, a construction loan might be a good option. These loans allow you to spread the cost over an extended period and typically offer lower interest rates compared to credit cards or personal loans. You’ll receive the loan amount in stages, known as “progress payments,” based on your building plans and a fixed price building contract with your builder.
3. Line of Credit:
A line of credit provides you with a revolving credit line that you can access up to your approved limit. You only pay interest on the funds you use, and as you repay your balance, you can re-borrow the unused funds without reapplying. However, be cautious about overextending yourself in terms of serviceability, as the rates on this product are usually higher than construction or top-up loans.
4. Personal Loan:
For minor renovations with a capped budget of
around $30,000, a personal loan might be suitable. Keep in mind that interest rates on personal loans tend to be higher than home equity loans, and repayment terms are usually limited to a maximum of seven years.
5. Credit Cards:
This option is only recommended for small renovation projects due to higher interest rates. While interest rates on credit cards are usually higher than on mortgages, they might still be reasonable for very small projects that won’t incur significant interest costs.
Homebuilder (Ending June 2025): The Federal Government’s HomeBuilder program offers eligible owner-occupiers grants of up to $25,000 for building a new home or substantially renovating an existing one. Applications close on 30 June 2025, after which the program will cease and not be extended. Homeowners planning to renovate are encouraged to act before the deadline.
One important consideration for any renovation is ensuring that the money invested will add more value to your home than the renovation costs. Think about making changes that appeal to potential buyers, enhancing the chances of selling your house faster and at a higher price.
For personalized assistance and advice, contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177.
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.
CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Shaped like a ring (7)
5. Adjust (7)
9. Consisting of pictures (9)
10. Not over (5)
11. Responses (7)
12. Invade in great numbers (7)
13. A poisonous agaric (9)
15. Wedding helper (5)
17. Possibly (5)
19. Deformed (9)
22. Podium (7)
25. Temporary (7)
26. Lifeless (5)
27. 6 points in football (9)
28. Fiscal shortfall (7)
29. Greatest possible degree (7)
DOWN
1 A dark bituminous substance (7)
2. Essential (9)
3. The Queen of the jungle? (7)
4. Thundershower (9)
5. A large stringed instrument (5)
6. French for “New” (7)
7. Command (5)
8. Sailor (7)
14. Lethargy (9)
16. Exaggeration (9)
17. Joined in matrimony (7)
18. Unpredictable (7)
20. A small ax (7)
21. Candidate (7)
23. Bundle (5)
24. horal work (5)
Local riders in QLD for Round 3 of the Australian Superbike Championship
THE mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), makes an electrifying return to Queensland Raceway this weekend (2-4 May). The 3.126km circuit, a magnet for fierce braking duels and exceptionally close
racing, is hosting Round Three of the 2025 ASBK Championship.
Four classes are in action at Queensland Raceway – Pirelli Superbike - JJ Nahlous (Glenwood), Jack Favelle (Cattai); Michelin Supersport - Jake Favelle (Glenhaven); Race and Road Supersport 300 - William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise), Zachary Russo (Sackville North), Elijah Andrew (Marayong), Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong); BLU CRU Oceania
Local Series rankings are Superbike - JJ Nahlous 4th, Jack Favelle 7th; Supersport - Jake Farnsworth 10th; Supersport 300 - William Hunt 24th, Zach Russo 34th; Yamaha R3 Cup - William Hunt 9th, Zach Russo 18th, Adam Jordan 21st; Oceania Junior Cup - Xavier Curmi 5th, Adam Jordan 18th.
Incessant rain wipes out Week 2 of Hawkesbury League Polo
BY NOEL ROWSELL
INCESSANT rain on both Saturday night and Sunday forced the cancellation of Kurri Burri’s week two of the Hawkesbury League, with the only games played in the round held on the Friday and Saturday.
The action now moves to Week 3 of the Hawkesbury League, which features the Royal Richmond Hotel Cup (4-6 goal, 2 goal and Subzero) at Windsor Polo Club this weekend.
The full draw will be available on the Polo Matchmaker FB page.
Action from the 6 goal game between Kurri Burri and Jemalong. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Junior Cup - Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong), Xavier Curmi (Wallacia).
Jake Farnsworth #49 and JJ Nahlous #20 in action from Round 2 at SMSP. Photos by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Ti Fox and Kade Webber impressive winners on Easter weekend
WESTERN Sydney golfers
Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) and Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) have both made golf headlines in the past week, taking out major tournaments in two different states.
Ti won the annual Strathfield Bowl, which was held at Strathfield GC on Easter Sunday. A red-hot field greeted the starter, with 32 of the 39 players on single figure handicaps, headlined by Ti as the low marker at +3.
Already enjoying a rich run of form this year, Ti was the hot favourite at Strathfield and lived up to his billing, claiming the trophy with a fabulous 4-under-par score of 67, 5 shots ahead of Strathfield member Toby Peterson on 72.
Ti followed up the win at Strathfield just one week later, claiming the Richmond Cup on Saturday 26th April, defeating Daniel Eun (NSW GC) on a countback, with Michael Bell (Camden GC) in third.
94 players greeted the starter in the Richmond Cup, with 67 of those on single figure handicaps. The junior scratch winner was Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC).
JNJG Illawarra Junior Masters
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WET, windy and at times wild conditions greeted the young golfers on both days of the IJNJG Illawarra Junior Masters, which is part of the Ford Junior Masters Series.
Held at The Links Shell Cove, the event attracted 165 junior golfers (122 boys, 43 girls), all hoping to gain an entry to the prestigious Bonville Champions Trophy in December.
Western Sydney was represented by 10 players in the event, being Georgina Karagiannis, Annoushka Maikap, Savannah Webb, Marie-Claire Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Jake Thompson, Fletcher Birks (Leonay GC), Enzo Moon, Eddison Sheppard, Matt Nathan (Lynwood GCC) and Chayse Thorpe (Richmond / Concord GC).
A string of low scores across both days highlighted the event, with the two outright winners dominating on Day 2.
Mimi Thomsen (The Australian GC) shot a 2nd round 65 to surge to a 2-shot victory in the Girls division, whilst Ian Kim (St Michaels GC) shot a 2nd round 63 to win the Boys division by 4 shots.
Chayse Thorpe overcame a poor Day 1 score of 79 to shoot a blistering 64 on Day 2, surging 31 spots up the leaderboard to finish 9th, one shot / one position behind Matt Nathan in 8th.
In Age Group placings, Matt finished 6th and Chayse 7th in 16+ Boys, whilst Jake Thompson was tied 15th in 14/15 Boys.
Savannah Webb finished 8th in the Girls division, ahead of Annoushka Maikap tied 9th, Georgia Karagiannis tied 14th and Marie-Claire Domingo tied 20th.
In Age Group placings, Annoushka finished 1st and Marie-Claire tied 4th in 16+ Girls, Savannah 3rd and Georgia 6th in 14/15 Girls.
Kade was also in sterling form over the Easter weekend, winning the 2025 Alice Springs Open, for the second successive year. In 2024, Kade won by an impressive 4 shots, then repeated that effort this year to again win the title
The tournament was held over Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Easter weekend and Kade shot rounds of 69, 66, 70 / 205 to finish 4 shots clear of James Goffman (Royal Queensland GC) in second spot, and 10 shots ahead of Rupert Toomey (Huntingdale GC) in third.
Kade will be heading back to the NT in May to contest the Northern Territory Amateur Championship.
Action at the JNJG Illawarra Junior Masters. Photos courtesy of JNJG. Annoushka Maikap and Savannah Webb.
Ti Fox and Kade Webber were both huge winners on the Easter Weekend. Right: Ti Fox 2025 Richmond Cup with Frank Gal. Photos supplied.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Blacktown City on a roll!
BY BOB TURNER
LAST Sunday, the largest crowd of the 2025 season were treated to a Blacktown City fightback over Sydney United. It was the fourth win in a row for Coach Crittenden’s men in a display of football that had the crowd thoroughly engaged. It was truly a tale of two halves as Blacktown City stunned Sydney United 58 with a 3-2 comeback win at Landen Stadium.
Sydney United were stacked with former Blacktown City players including last years captain Mario Shabow, goalie Tristen Prendergast and Leroy Jennings who almost scored the opening goal four minutes into the game. The familiarity of Landen Stadium was a positive factor for the United players, and it was Sydney United who broke the deadlock after 20 minutes, with last week’s hat-trick hero Patrick Antelmi delivering an awkwardly-angled cross to Mason Wells, who smashed it into the back of the net.
Blacktown City were trying their best to grab a goal of their own, with Danny Choi leading the charge in just his second start of the season. But it was Sydney United 58 who bagged another goal, with Antelmi delivering a stunner past Cayden Henderson to double his side’s lead after 33 minutes. The half time score read 2-0 to United in a dominant display of football that had Blacktown on their heels and heading to their first loss in five games.
Head Coach, Mark Crittenden, worked some half time magic with s few personnel changes and no doubt some choice words for his troops. The hosts came out in the second half a seemingly brand-new team and took no time at all eliminating the goal deficit. The comeback started with a yellow card for Sydney United 58’s Tariq Maia for a foul on Choi, leading to a Blacktown free kick just outside the box. Jak O’Brien’s cross found Travis Major through the United defence to bring one back and leaving the visitors with questions on their back line.
Jak O’Brien then set up the equaliser, with his cross finding Lachlan Campbell to bring Blacktown City level at 2-2 just six minutes into the second half.
The second half was much more physical than the first, with six yellow cards handed out compared to the two in the opening 45. It came to a catalyst in the 66th minute as Sydney United 58’s Liam McGing was called for a foul in the box on Lachlan Campbell, handing Blacktown City a penalty. After his two stunning assists early in the half, it was finally time for Jak O’Brien to record his own goal, sending keeper Tristan Prendergast the wrong way to put the home team in front 3-2.
The well-earned win elevates Blacktown to second on the NSW Premier league table with a 7-3-2 record, equal to rival Rockdale in a share of second spot. Marconi leads the charge with a 9-3-0 record and have yet to lose a game.
The week before Blacktown City travelled away to meet cross town rivals, Mount Druitt Rangers, in the opening game of the Blacktown Mayoral Cup. Ward 5 Councillor, Talia Amituanai, was on hand to present the Cup, standing in for fellow Ward 5 Councillor and Mayor, Brad Bunting. Blacktown City have yet to lose the Cup and from the first whistle, the Rangers were aggressive to reverse that trend. It looked like this encounter was going to be resolved by ‘two falls, one submission or a knockout’ to decide the winner but in the end, it was the magic of Mitch Mallia that made the difference for a 3-2 win to Blacktown.
In the Australia Cup, Blacktown are down to the final 16 in NSW with two more wins required to qualify for the final 32 of the prestigious Hahn Australia Cup. Wins over UNSW, 3-0 and a 7-0 thrashing of Gymea have set up a Round 5 clash with Wollongong Olympic on May 7th. Blacktown qualified last year for the Final 32 and hosted Adelaide United at a packed Landen Stadium.
Next home game for Blacktown in the NSW Premier league is Sunday, May 11th to host Sydney FC. The week before Blacktown is on the road to meet the West Sydney Wanderers on the 4th of May. Blacktown City Women have a bye this week after a tough 2-2 draw with Bankstown FC last week.
Go Blacktown City!
Jak O’Brien & Danny Choi.
Grant Lynch. Photos courtesy of Not24Get
Councillor Talia Amituanai standing in for Mayor Brad Bunting with the Blacktown Mayoral Cup
Jak O’Brien in full flight.
