Blacktown City Council seeks partners for $600 million infrastructure program
BLACKTOWN City Council is calling on the construction industry to help deliver more than $600 million in transformative infrastructure, with a formal Request for Tender (RFT) now open to establish a panel of qualified contractors.
The RFT, Contract C9/2025, will create a panel of Tier 1, Tier 2, and specialist construction partners to deliver a suite of major civic and community infrastructure projects across the city over the next five years.
Mayor Brad Bunting said the program represents one of the most ambitious and well-prepared civic infrastructure agendas in Australia.
“This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of one of the fastest-growing cities in the country,” Mayor Bunting said.
“Blacktown City has already delivered more than $250 million in major projects and this program takes that to the next level. With more than $600 million in projects on offer, we’re looking for partners who want to build with confidence and purpose.”
“This is about more than concrete and steel. It’s about delivering lasting value for communities, for workers, and for the future of Western Sydney.”
Seven of the projects Council have funded through the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
Projects to be delivered include:
• a new PCYC and community hub at Mount Druitt
• the revitalisation of Mount Druitt Town Centre’s public domain
• renewed aquatic centres at Blacktown and Mount Druitt
• a First Nations Cultural Hub
• the Seven Hills Community Resource Hub
• an upgraded Blacktown Arts Centre
• a new Civic Centre in the Blacktown CBD (pending Council decisions)
• a new Civic Office at Rooty Hill (pending Council decisions).
“Council has already delivered more than $250 million in major infrastructure over recent years, including award-winning facilities like the Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub and the Warrick Lane precinct,” Mayor Bunting said.
“This next phase is about partnering with experienced contractors which share our commitment to design integrity, construction quality and community value.”
The RFT will close at 3.00pm on Wednesday 18 June 2025.
To view the tender documents and apply, visit: Transformational Projects Construction Contractors Panel Contract - C9/2025 | buy.nsw
Mount Druitt Swimming Centre exterior.
Artist impression of Blacktown Aquatic Centre exterior.
Mount Druitt Swimming Centre interior.
Artist impression of reception and café Blacktown Aquatic Centre.
Cafe entry Mount Druitt Swimming Centre.
PCYC Artist impression of exterior view.
PCYC Artist impression of interior court.
Artist impression of indoor pool Blacktown Aquatic Centre.
Seven Hills Library and Community Hub.
Artist impression Seven Hills Library and Community Hub lobby.
National Motoring Heritage Day at East Kurrajong
THE National Motoring Heritage Day was celebrated locally at the East Kurrajong School of Arts on Sunday 18th May.
Originally scheduled to feature classic, vintage, tractors, antique tools & machinery, local arts and crafts, family & local history, military miniatures and WW1 display, NRMA display, railway memorabilia, stamps, coins, woodworking and vintage toys and games, the promise of even more rain and atrocious conditions resulted in the cancellation of many display events.
My Car Club NSW were among the stalwarts who did attend, and newsletter editor Mark Hertz provided the following report. “This day is celebrated annually in Australia, on the third Sunday of May, and it’s an opportunity for owners of vintage, veteran and classic vehicles to display their cars, meet fellow enthusiasts and share their passion for motoring. It is a celebration of Australia’s motoring heritage and encourages public appreciation and support for all historic vehicles, with events being held across Australia.”
“Rain however is not a welcome visitor and unfortunately this year, the east coast was drenched, resulting in the cancellation of many display
events. Nevertheless, our stalwart group could not be deterred, with some members making the trek. Car numbers were about half the usual but still a rousing turnout for the day.
“The rain decided to drizzle continually, leaving the ground decidedly muddy, resulting in some early attendees actually packing up and making their exit around 10.00am
- not our team, they stuck it out ‘till 12.30 - definitely made of hardy stuff!
“No working machinery, etc was on display or in action for obvious reasons. The BBQ actually happened and there were the usual displays / sales in the comfort of the hall. All in all, the flag was flown for the Australian motoring movement. Well done by all participants!”
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Some of the vehicles on display at the National Motoring Heritage Day. Photos courtesy of My Car Club NSW
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S the cold weather sets in, many of us reach for an extra blanket, turn on the heater, or enjoy a hot meal in the comfort of our homes. But for far too many people in our local community, these simple comforts are out of reach.
Homelessness isn’t always visible. It can look like someone sleeping rough in a park, living in a car, or couch-surfing night to night. The reasons why people are in this position can also vary and include job loss, inability to secure a rental or a family fleeing domestic violence. What they all have in common is a daily struggle to stay warm, dry, and nourished—needs that become even more urgent during winter.
Now is the time to act with compassion. Local charities are working tirelessly to support our most vulnerable, but they can’t do it alone. Donations of non-perishable food and new warm clothing—beanies, socks, gloves, jackets—can make an enormous difference.
Please consider dropping off what you can to one of the many local organisations helping those in need. Your contribution could be the reason someone gets a warm meal or dry clothes this week.
These are human beings who are down on their luck and in the cold months ahead, they need our support more than ever.
If you are part of a charity organisation in need of products and donations, please register your interest at nepeannews@aol.com. If you are a member of the public and would like to donate but are unsure where to donate to, feel free to shoot us an email at nepeannews@aol.com and we will put you in touch.
Guide dogs NSW benefit from return and earn campaign
GUIDE Dogs NSW/ACT are the official charity partner for the Return and Earn Scheme from April 2025 until October 2025.
During this time, Guide Dog Solo will be featured on all 650 Return and Earn kiosks throughout New South Wales.
You can get involved too! By recycling eligible cans or bottles
at your local kiosk and pressing “donate”, your refund will help support people with low vision or blindness to live the life they choose.
Not only are these donations tax deductible, but they’re also a great way to get your friends, family or school involved in a meaningful cause, whilst taking care of the environment.
Cuddle bed gifts the ultimate connection for palliative care patients
MOUNT DRUITT Palliative Care Unit, renowned for its exceptional care, has just been improved through the addition of a ‘cuddle bed’.
The purchase of the specialised bed, valued at $24,500, was funded through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program and the Better Foundation.
Health Minister Ryan Park visited the Western Sydney centre, joined by local Mount Druitt MP, Edmond Atalla, who organised the donation.
“Palliative care brings humanity and dignity for both patients and the people who love them,” Minister Ryan said.
It was a privilege to help fund a new state of the art ‘Cuddle Bed’ for their unit, that can be adjusted by patients with ease and allow loved ones to be physically close with each other, Minister Ryan said. “ “
The Minister spoke with attentive staff, who were eager to showcase their brilliant treatment and secondto-none quality of care.
Local MP Edmond Atalla understands the impact of care, especially at the end-of-life stage.
“The new cuddle bed at the Mt Druitt Hospital Palliative Care Unit
brings warmth and closeness to families during life’s most difficult moments,” Mr Attala said.
“It offers a sense of home in a place where it’s needed most.”
His connection to the centre is very much a personal one, with his own mother receiving palliative care at the same centre some time ago.
“The cuddle bed at Mt Druitt Hospital Palliative Care Unit offers families the precious gift of closeness, allowing them to share comfort and connection in their loved one’s final moments,” Mr Atalla said.
The ‘cuddle bed’ is one of the ways connection is at the heart of care and comfort.
The patient controls and bed lowering capacity promotes autonomy and independence by allowing the patient more control and greater independence where able.
The bed extender widens the bed to allow more space for family members
to lay together, a simple but priceless joy.
The Better Foundation Chair Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas AM said, “We are deeply grateful to the Member for Mount Druitt, Mr Edmond Atalla MP and the Health Minister Ryan Park for their support of the Foundation and Mount Druitt Hospital.
“The cuddle bed is a priceless gift for families and their loved ones receiving end-of-life care at the Palliative Care Unit at Mount Druitt Hospital,” Professor Zelas said.
Family members can snuggle with their loved one who is receiving endof-life care, and they can provide each other with physical and emotional comfort, Peter said. “ “
The state-of-the-art cuddle bed comes with an inbuilt weight scale, a multi-level fall prevention system, and many other user-friendly features.
The cuddle bed was made possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of donors, organised by the Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital Foundation.
Help us continue creating spaces like The Better Foundation and support more families across the hospital.
Please consider making a donation to Better Foundation: https:// betterfoundation.org.au/
Opinion: We will keep backing more homes for NSW
BY PREMIER CHRIS MINNS
I’M obviously disappointed that the proposal to build 25,000 new homes at Rosehill was voted down yesterday.
This was always a decision for the Australian Turf Club and I respect the outcome. But I don’t regret supporting a project for more housing in Sydney, which this city desperately needs.
The truth is, putting up an idea like this was always going to be a big gamble. And sometimes in life, the big gamble doesn’t come off.
But that’s not a reason to run away from the housing challenge, or to avoid these kind of big ideas in the future.
One of the reasons our housing situation has gotten so bad is that governments have been too scared to take risks on housing because of the backlash from NIMBY groups.
A city pays a price for that kind of timidity. And in Sydney, that price is being paid by our young people.
With that in mind, hats off to Peter McGauran and Peter V’Landys.
Peter McGauran had a crack, and I will always respect him for it. We need more people bowling up ideas and trying to get things done for the city, not less.
I didn’t know Peter V’Landys very well before I became Premier, but he’s a do-er. He’s someone who grabs initiatives and pursues them. I think Sydney could do with ten Peter V’Landys rather than one. We would be a more exciting, more dynamic city as a result.
If you try anything difficult, failure is always a possibility. But the lesson should never be ‘don’t try, because you might not succeed in the end’.
When it comes to housing, we have to take the opposite lesson: that we can’t give up, that we have to keep taking risks, to give our kids a future in this city.
As everybody knows, in the second most expensive city on Earth, the
one thing we need is more housing. Victoria and Queensland have been outbuilding us for decades. And we are now losing twice as many young people as we are getting back in return every year.
In order to get the ball rolling, we have to take some chances.
That’s why we changed the rules, to build thousands of new homes around train stations. It’s why we backed this up with the biggest government housing build in New South Wales. It’s why we established the Housing Delivery Authority, which has already approved 45,200 for our development pathway.
And ultimately, it’s why we said this proposed new suburb of housing in Rosehill was a one in a generation opportunity.
If the charge is that we were too bold, I have no problem with that.
This was a rare opportunity to build on top of the new metro line. It would have given tens of thousands of people a well-located home in the heart of Sydney. I still think it was a good idea, with a good motivation.
And if I had my time again, I’d back it in just as fiercely.
We will keep supporting big bold solutions for housing. We will keep our foot on the accelerator.
Specialised ‘cuddle bed’ expands, allowing loved ones the comfort of cuddles and embrace towards the end of life.
Partnership ensures aviation careers take off
WESTERN Sydney University, Bradfield Development Authority and Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) have joined forces to launch an innovative aviation micro-credential, designed to support the workforce ramp-up ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026.
Tailored for school leavers, career changers, and current workers seeking formal aviation credentials, the Introduction to Aviation Operations Microcredential was co-developed with Western Sydney businesses and schools, ensuring it meets both industry and community needs.
Graduates will earn a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment aligned with the Certificate I in Aviation and learn job-ready skills for roles like ramp operations, ground handling, and security screening.
Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said the University is pleased to offer this microcredential to equip learners with the skills needed to take advantage of future job opportunities at the new airport.
“Upskilling the local community is vital not only for the airport’s success but also to ensure the community can benefit from the lasting opportunities it will bring to the Western Sydney region,” said Professor Williams.
“This micro-credential, delivered with WSI and the Bradfield Development Authority, helps to address the airport’s day-one workforce needs and supports long-term precinct job growth, offering a blended, digital-first design with immersive 360° simulations.
“The University is proud to offer scholarships and targeted support for Indigenous learners, people with disability, and women pursuing careers in aviation. The program strengthens our partnership with WSI, which includes research and innovation projects, as well as internships and capstone learning opportunities.”
WSI Chief Executive Officer Simon Hickey said the airport has created thousands of jobs throughout construction and is now generating another wave of new career opportunities as the transition to commercial operations continues.
“WSI’s opening day is around the corner and with that comes many new job opportunities across the airport precinct in various roles, which will support all facets of our 24-hour operations,” he said.
“We’re really pleased to be partnering with Western Sydney University and the Bradfield Development Authority on the development of this microcredential, as it’s all about connecting people with practical, accessible education and training pathways that can lead them to genuine job opportunities.
“While we’re firmly focused on day one of operations in 2026 – the jobs won’t stop there. WSI is built for growth, and as we grow so too will the associated job needs from terminal operations to our cargo hub, business precinct, retail stores, airlines and everything in between. The sky’s the limit.”
Bradfield Development Authority CEO Ken Morrison said the Authority was pleased to support the development of the micro-credential as part of the economic development strategy for the Aerotropolis.
“In Bradfield and the Aerotropolis, we’re focused on creating more high value jobs for the people of Western Sydney,” he said.
“This micro-credential not only supports exciting new local jobs and operations at WSI, it also enhances the focus on attracting aerospace and aviation related businesses to the region.
“This is only the beginning, with the advanced industries already locating in the Aerotropolis set to drive even more jobs and economic growth, leveraging off the opportunities WSI offers.”
Led by The College at Western Sydney University, the micro-credential prepares learners for entry-level aviation roles and provides a clear pathway into higher-level vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and higher education Diplomas.
The program combines online learning, AIpowered support, practical workshops, and immersive 360° airport simulations – providing learners with real-world insight into modern aviation environments.
Learners can choose from three flexible delivery options including a standard six-week course,
an intensive four-day workshop, or a one-day bootcamp for experienced learners.
The program is designed to be affordable and accessible to the community, priced at $350. Indigenous Australians, people with disability, women returning to work, and regional jobseekers are encouraged to apply for scholarships during the enrolment process.
The Introduction to Aviation Operations MicroCredential is open for applications. For more information and to register, please visit https:// westernsydneyrto.com.au/course/mc056introduction-to-aviation-operations/.
Lions Club and community kindness fills pantry
THE Blacktown Ponds Lions Club Inc has once again demonstrated the power of community and compassion through their recent food drive initiative.
A trolley full of non-perishable food items from the donation box located outside Coles at Stanhope Gardens Shopping Centre was collected last week.
The initiatives shown by our local Lions are a shining example of kindness and service that will bring hope and comfort to many.
The Lions Club have passed the generous donations from local shoppers on to Mary’s Pantry — a local organisation committed to helping the homeless and disadvantaged in our community.
This collaboration between the Lions Club, the community, and Mary’s Pantry is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together with a shared goal of making a difference.
The Blacktown Ponds Lions Club thanks everyone who contributed and encourages continued support in future food drives. Every can, box and packet donated helps change lives.
Peter Mackey, Executive Director, Skills & Industry Capability, Bradfield Development Authority; Kirby Grattan, Chief People Officer, WSI; Glenn Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, The College; Giovanna Romeo, Executive Manager Organisation Capability, WSI; Anthony Mitri, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, The College; and Don Wright, Executive Director, Enterprise, Western Sydney University.
Western’s award-winning writers win at NSW Premier’s Literary Awards
WRITERS from Western Sydney University’s School of Humanities and Communications Arts, and the Writing and Society Research Centre, were shortlisted in the 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards with one talented writer winning the Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry.
Hasib Hourani, author of the award-winning title rock flight, published by Giramondo Publishing based at Western Sydney University, was announced as the winner of the $30,000 Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry as part of the 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards.
Additionally, Hasib Hourani’s rock flight has been shortlisted for the Association for the Study of Australian Literature’s Mary Gilmore Award, and for the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for Poetry.
A total of seven literary works published by Western Sydney University staff and alumni were shortlisted across five of the 14 award categories including:
Kenneth Slessor Prize for Poetry Winner:
• Hasib Hourani – rock flight (Giramondo Publishing)
Shortlisted:
• Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Andrews – The Oblong Plot (Puncher & Wattmann)
• Dr Kate Middleton, Writing and Society Research Centre alumna –
Television (Giramondo Publishing)
Christina Stead Prize for Fiction
Shortlisted:
• Emerita Professor Gail Jones –One Another (Text Publishing)
Translation Prize
Shortlisted:
• Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Andrews – You Glow in the Dark by Liliana Colanzi, translated from Spanish by Chris Andrews (New Directions Publishing)
Multicultural NSW Award
Shortlisted:
• Winnie Dunn, School of Humanities and Communication
Arts alumna – Dirt Poor Islanders (Hachette Australia)
Glenda Adams Award for New Writing
Shortlisted:
• Graham Akhurst, Sydney Review of Books Board – Borderland (UWA Publishing)
• Hasib Hourani – rock flight (Giramondo Publishing)
• Winnie Dunn, School of Humanities and Communication
Arts alumna – Dirt Poor Islanders (Hachette Australia)
Associate Professor Kate Fagan, Director of the Writing and Society Research Centre, congratulated Western’s winning and shortlisted authors, noting the results are just another example of the way the Centre
supports and produces such vital, high calibre literary works.
“The Western Sydney region is a true literary powerhouse. I feel immensely proud to work within such a dynamic and vital creative community,” said Associate Professor Fagan.
“Congratulations to all our winning and shortlisted authors from the School of Humanities and Communication Arts and the Writing and Society Research Centre. Giramondo Publishing again features in the lists, reflecting the excellent, ongoing work of Professor Ivor Indyk and his team.”
In additional success, Giramondo authors Brian Castro and Winnie Dunn, plus Writing and Society Research Centre’s inaugural Parramatta Laureate in Literature, Yumna Kassab, were recently longlisted for the highly prestigious national Miles Franklin Award.
As a leading Australian tertiary hub for literary studies and creative writing, the University’s Writing and Society Research Centre is home to two major national publishing ventures – the Sydney Review of Books and Giramondo Publishing.
The 2025 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards winners were announced as part of the Sydney Writers’ Festival program and are administered by the State Library of NSW in association with Create NSW.
Quick-thinking 76-year-old volunteer saves life
WHETHER it was fate or divine intervention that brought Harold Becker to Westmead Hospital, there’s no denying he was in the right place at the right time.
Despite Vic Calandruccio and Harold having greeted each other in the hospital hallways over the years, their paths would intertwine as 76-year-old volunteer Vic saved the life of 81-yearold volunteer Harold Becker.
Harold is a Welfare Officer at Blacktown Workers Club and for the last 14 years, he’s volunteered to attend members funerals, visit nursing homes or conduct hospital visits if members are unwell.
“I’m happy to put a smile on their faces, a lot of them don’t get visitors. It makes me feel proud to sit down and have a talk with them for a while,” Harold said.
He came to the hospital to visit two club members that day.
“It had been raining so I walked pretty quick from the top carpark,” Harold said.
“When I got to the pharmacy inside the hospital’s entrance, I had run out of breath, so I stopped. That’s the last thing I remember,” Harold said.
Vic drives one of the buggy’s at Westmead Hospital, a volunteer-run
service which helps shuttle people across the large parts of the hospital.
“I was sitting on my buggy, waiting for customers to come in,” Vic said.
As Vic arrived near the entrance, he noticed a man sitting on a seat who ‘didn’t look ok’.
“I realised there was a gentleman sitting, and all of a sudden he collapsed on the seat,” Vic said.
Vic called out for help and Robyn Samuels who was working at the Information Desk / Switchboard heard his calls.
“I rang a code blue to get the emergency team here. We then realised
he wasn’t breathing,” Robyn said.
Nurse Wendy Chan was working in the admissions unit when she heard people calling out.
“One of my colleagues called my name and sounded very concerned,” Wendy says.
Wendy ran out to see Vic, Robyn and two doctors attending to Harold.
One doctor quickly realised he didn’t have a pulse, so the other doctor began CPR immediately.
Wendy jumped into the second round of CPR, and despite never having performed CPR before, Vic and Robyn once again helped the man until
the team from emergency took over.
Doctors have no doubt that the swift actions by Vic, Robyn and Wendy were life-saving.
“I felt relieved that he was breathing again and rewarding that we saved a life that day,” Wendy said.
Nearly one week after Harold’s heart attack, hospital volunteer Vic and Robyn were given the chance to meet Harold who was recovering on the cardiac ward.
‘It was fantastic to meet them, I’m really happy. I’m just so glad that those people are volunteering,” Harold said.
Westmead Hospital’s Volunteer Manager Kylie Elliot says the incident is an example of the brilliant generosity and spirit of volunteers.
“It’s a great reminder to tell us all to check on your fellow people,” Kylie said.
Kylie celebrated her volunteers by decorating the buggy and office with superman-style pictures for ‘superhero Vic’.
“I think the volunteers need to know it was something so extraordinary and inspirational,” Kylie said.
Harold said once he fully recovers, he has plans for what to do afterwards.
“After I get out of hospital, I want to get back to doing what I’ve been doing… volunteering.”
50 years of nursing across western Sydney
BY NOEL ROWSELL
JANET McKenzie (Penrith) is celebrating her 50th year of nursing, which began at the Fairfield District Hospital in 1975.
Janet currently lives and works in the Penrith area where she is employed with Community Health in Child and Family Health Nursing.
She started nursing in February, 1975 at the Fairfield District Hospital, now the site of Karitane in Carramar.
“Nursing has changed quite a lot in 50 years – training was hospital-based and followed a military-style model,” said Janet. “We addressed staff by their titles, stood when senior staff entered the room, and bed-making was treated as a lesson in precision and perfection.
“We first-year nurses were required to live in the staff quarters, which created a strong sense of routine. We felt a thrill of advancement when we climbed the ladder to second year!
“After the completion of my training, I worked for 12 months as a Registered Nurse (RN) and all RN’s were addressed as ‘Sister’. I went on to study Midwifery and, from 19792002, I worked in that field – a time filled with incredibly meaningful work and lifelong learning.
“During the 90’s, I found that more and more Registered Nurses were
university trained. Wanting to stay current and to expand my knowledge, I went on to complete a Bachelor of Health / Primary Healthcare whilst working part-time as a Midwife.
“In 2002, I made the move into Community Child and Family
Health Nursing. This opportunity allowed me to move away from the medical model, focusing on Primary Healthcare and providing support to new parents.
“Today, I continue my work in Community Child and Family Health Nursing, and it has been a privilege to adapt and grow with the profession over the past 50 years. Whilst so much has changed, the heart of Nursing –compassion, connection and care –remains the same.”
Janet’s colleagues describe her as grounded, generous, and deeply committed to her community. Her 50-year legacy is a rare and powerful example of dedication, adaptability, and care.
The power of lived experience
“We were scared. We were confused. We kept thinking, ‘What could we have done better as parents?’ ‘What can we do now to help him feel safe and well?’ We felt guilty and helpless.”
MARK* and his partner were shocked to notice signs that his son Ben* had been self-harming.
“We didn’t see any warning signs,” Mark says. “Up to age 12, Ben was a bubbly kid. He played community sport. He had a good friendship group. Then the pandemic came. He couldn’t see his friends in person. And when he turned 13, there were the regular challenges of that age.
“When we discovered what was happening, I thought, ‘This seems so out of character for Ben.’ But I realise now that any young person can fall back on these coping mechanisms.”
Young people like Ben are feeling increasingly isolated and unsure how to cope. Every year since the pandemic, 34% more young people have shown up at hospitals for self-harm and suicidal thinking.
“Black Dog Institute is taking the right approach and making better mental health more accessible. I wish we’d had their help for Ben at the time,” says Mark.
Thankfully, Ben was able to get the mental health support he needed and gained strength through his experience. Mark hopes that other parents will take hope from his story.
Ben’s mental health has improved, but how much better would it be to prevent young people like him from reaching the point where they feel self-harm is their only option to manage their pain?
Janet MacKenzie 50 years of nursing.
Congratulations, Janet—and thank you for five remarkable decades of service.
The Father of Federation
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
SIR Henry Parkes was born to a farming family on the 27th May 1815 at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire in England. He was the youngest of seven children to Thomas Parkes and his wife Martha (Faulconbridge). Thomas was a tenant farmer at the Stoneleigh Abbey Estate. Forced off their farm in 1823 by debt the Parkes family moved to Glamorganshire, then around 1825 they settled in Birmingham where Thomas was a gardener and oddjob man. Henry’s formal education was in his own words “very limited and imperfect” and he briefly attended Stoneleigh parish school and later joined the Birmingham Mechanics’ Institute. As a boy he was obliged to help in supporting the family and worked as a road labourer then in a brick pit and ropewalk before being apprenticed to John Holding who was a bone and ivory turner in Moseley Street. In July 1836 at Edgbaston Parish Church he married Clarinda a 23-year-old daughter of butcher John Varney. In 1838 Henry took Clarinda to London in search of better prospects where they survived a few weeks by pawning his tools and were determined to leave for New South Wales. Henry assured his Birmingham family of his certainty of making his fortune and coming back to fetch all of them. They sailed from Gravesend in March the next year in 1839 on the “Strathfieldsaye” as assisted immigrants and arrived in Sydney in July 1839 with a newly infant born at sea two days earlier. Henry found work as a labourer on Sir John Jamison’s Regentville estate but after six months returned to Sydney to work in Thomas Burdekin’s iron-mongery and Peter Russell’s brass-foundry. In 1840 he became a tidewaiter in the New South Wales Customs Department, slowly buying tools and in 1845 he set himself up where the Old Police Headquarters stood as an ivory turner and importer of fancy goods in Phillip and Hunter Street in Sydney. He opened branches in Maitland and Geelong but both failed and by 1850 he was in financial difficulties and writing to his wife of culpable neglect in his business in Sydney. He had by then become deeply involved in literary and political activities attractions which highlighted the dullness of a business life. Henry leased “Werrington House” from 1860 to 1871. His failure to pay the rent on time was not appreciative of the Lethbridge Family owners. In early May 1861 Henry accepted an invitation from Sir Charles Cowper to tour England as a Government lecturer on emigration at a salary of £1,000 and leaving his family in poverty on their rented farm at Werrington. He was knighted in 1877 and was instrumental in the naming of the “Commonwealth of Australia” for the new nation. In 1888 Clarinda died at their place of residence called “Hampden Villa” in Balmain. She had been very ill for some time but appeared to be much better and she also took some part in conversation and occasionally appeared cheerful. Henry was with her at 1 o’clock and about that time she complained of feeling much worse and was assisted to bed. In the evening Henry had business with his Excellency the Governor and a little before 10 o’clock he
proceeded to the Colonial Secretary’s Office and not thinking of any danger or cause of alarm in his wife’s condition he decided to remain for the night so that he might get to work early the next morning. So, unaware of the possibility of any serious turn in his wife’s illness that was taking place at home and with Dr MacLaurin in attendance, Henry was not sent for. Clarinda’s body was taken to the burial ground at Faulconbridge where the remains of their oldest son was interred some years ago with the funeral being strictly private and confined only to the members of the family. Henry faced immense personal turmoil following the death of Clarinda and quietly married Eleanor Dixon in Sydney in February 1889. She was born at Wooller, Northumberland in England and the youngest child of Thomas and Mary Dixon. After her father’s death in 1869 she came to Australia with the rest of the family. Lady Parkes was considerably younger than her husband and she lived a quiet and peaceful life. Later it was discovered that she had been suffering from an incurable decease and she died at “Kenilworth” Johnstone-street in Annandale in 1895 and was buried at St Annes Church cemetery in Ryde. That same year at St John’s church Parramatta Henry married Julia Lynch, born in Ireland in 1872 who was a 23-year-old former cook and housekeeper for Sir Henry when they married. Henry fathered 18 children. He died in 1896 of pneumonia before Federation came into being at Canberra in 1901 and is buried in the family grave at Faulconbridge, NSW.
Sources: Australian Dictionary of Biography, Obituaries Australia website, Find a Grave.
PS - This is my last History Page. Thanks to Kerrie and the team I was able to let the surrounding people of our district know the heritage that is here and those who came before us. I hope you enjoyed the pages as I did researching it. The society Facebook page will still be active for you to enjoy.
IT’S BUSINESS AS USUAL…
Photo of Henry courtesy of Archive Office of NSW.
ALEX SONCINI
ATax deductions every homeowner should know about
S the 2025 End of Financial Year (EOFY) approaches in Australia, understanding the latest tax updates is essential for homeowners, renters, and investment property owners. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has introduced changes that aim to enhance compliance whilst optimising deductions. Whether you’re preparing your taxes or looking to improve your financial outcomes, staying informed about these updates can help you make more effective decisions.
The ATO’s 2025 updates focus on simplifying deductions for work-from-home expenses and investment property costs. Taxpayers are now required to apportion expenses more accurately, such as rent and utilities, ensuring they reflect precise usage for work versus personal purposes. Streamlined tools have been introduced to support compliance, making the process more user-friendly. Moreover, investment property owners benefit from updated depreciation rates and clarified guidelines for renovations and repairs.
While seeking professional tax advice remains the most reliable way to ensure accuracy and compliance, understanding these deduction options can help individuals save money and navigate tax complexities more effectively.
Work From Home Deductions
Whether you are a homeowner or renter, those working from home may be eligible to claim deductions for occupancy expenses and running costs. Occupancy expenses include rent, home loan interest payments, land tax, and council rates. Running costs cover phone and internet bills, heating, lighting, office supplies such as printer ink, depreciation of equipment purchased in previous
years, and other related expenses.
With the increased adoption of hybrid work models, the ATO requires taxpayers to allocate these expenses based on precise time spent working versus personal use. Updates in 2025 include streamlined online tools for tracking home office usage and simplified formulas for calculating deductions, making it easier for taxpayers to comply with requirements.
Deductions on Investment Properties
Investment property owners can claim interest on loans related to their rental property, including those for depreciating assets, as well as for essential repairs and renovations completed during the financial year. Repairs deemed non-essential may need to be claimed upon the property’s future sale.
The updated guidelines for 2025 offer greater clarity on what constitutes essential versus nonessential improvements, helping property owners adhere to best practices. Depreciation rates for certain property-related equipment have also been adjusted to align with current market trends, ensuring claims remain accurate and relevant.
Negatively Geared Investment Properties
If your rental property has incurred a net loss over the financial year—commonly referred to as negative gearing—you may be able to offset this loss against your taxable income. Net losses occur when the total expenses on the property exceed the rental income received.
In 2025, the ATO emphasizes more rigorous record-keeping for negatively geared properties. Taxpayers are required to provide detailed statements and evidence of all expenses incurred throughout the year to ensure compliance and transparency.
Claiming for investment property expenses
If you own a rental property as well as your principal place of residence, there may be other deductions you can claim, such as property management fees, advertising fees, local council rates, land tax, bank charges on your investment loan, maintenance costs, and any legal expenses incurred.
For 2025, taxpayers must account for these expenses using updated digital tracking systems provided by the ATO, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Travel expenses for property inspections remain non-deductible, but new provisions allow claims for virtual property management tools used during the year.
Knowing what tax deductions, you can claim can save you significant sums of money over time, but it is important that you seek professional taxation advice if you are unsure of what you can and can’t claim. It can be well worthwhile keeping your financial housekeeping tasks in order using accounting software like MYOB or Xero. These tools help ensure all evidence, such as receipts and statements, is neatly organized, making EOFY preparation smoother. This way, you can focus on maximizing savings and reducing stress when filing your taxes in 2025.
Got a question about navigating the home loan market? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 from Wealthwiz for guidance to help turn your financial goals into reality.
*The data, information, and commentary provided in this publication are general in nature. Opinions expressed are those of the contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of professional taxation advice tailored to individual circumstances.
Blacktown Red Belly Warriors hosts its annual rugby league knockout tournament
BY
THE Blacktown Red Belly Warriors (BRBW) are seeking team nominations for the 2025 BRBW Knockout, which will be held on 20th September at The Kingsway, St Marys.
The BRBW Knockout is the only Sydney knockout tournament played before the annual Koori Knockout, which will be held in Tamworth this year over the Long Weekend 3-6th October.
The 2025 Koori Knockout is one of the largest gatherings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the country, uniting players, supporters and spectators in a
celebration of sport, culture, and community.
The Koori Knockout has grown to be one of the largest Indigenous sporting events in the world. In 2024, the tournament featured an extraordinary 138 teams, including current and former NRL and NRLW stars, showcasing the immense talent and passion within First Nations communities. The event attracted a live audience of 30,000 attendees and reached an impressive 500,000 viewers through television broadcasts, underlining its importance to the wider Australian public.
The BRBW Knockout is the perfect warm-up opportunity for teams hoping to play well in Tamworth,
providing match conditions to prepare both players and officials prior to the national event.
Entry enquiries for the BRBW
event can be found on Instagram @ blacktownredbellywarriors, email blacktownredbellywarriors@gmail. com or by phone 0414 798 063.
2025 HSRCA Sydney Classic returns to SMSP
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE committee of the Historic Sports and Racing Car Association of NSW invites drivers and spectators to join them for their annual winter spectacular at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP), to be held over the King’s Birthday long weekend, the 7th and 8th of June,
The meeting will offer races for all of the usual fifth category vehicles, as well as speed events for vehicles
manufactured up to the 1990s and invited cars deemed compatible with those groups.
For our 2025 meeting, HSRCA is pleased to feature the iconic Group C & A Australian touring cars of the Heritage Touring Cars series, along with HQ Racing NSW and MG Racing Australia.
The committee is pleased to welcome HQ Racing NSW back, after they first joined up at a HSRCA meeting at the Sydney Classic last year. Coming out of Tasmania in 1989, HQ Racing is a category for
Holden HQ four-door sedans, running 3.3L 6-cylinder engines. The HQ Holdens are a great fit for the HSRCA historic race meetings, and we look forward to seeing them in action on track once more.
The Heritage Touring Cars series will contest the third round of their 2025 championship at the Sydney Classic, reaching the mid-point of their competition. These are the cars that many of us grew up watching racing around Bathurst, in the hands of legendary drivers like Peter Brock, Jim Richards, Mark Skaife and more,
and they’re raced with the same vigour today as back then.
We are also thrilled to welcome MG Racing Australia back in 2025. The series comprises a huge range of race and sporting MGs, from the mighty 5.6L MGB GT V8, complete with full aerodynamic package, to works MGZTs, a British Touring Car Championship MGZS, the only factory MGSV-R in existence - and more.
We look forward to seeing everyone at SMSP for an excellent meeting at the 2025 Sydney Classic.
NOEL ROWSELL
Action from the 2024 Men’s and U11’s Grand Finals
Action from the 2024 HSRCA Sydney Classic. Photos by Noel Rowsell
Blacktown City Falters with Number 1
BY BOB TURNER
MARCONI Stallions came to Landen Stadium last Sunday and in front of the biggest crowd of the 2025 season to date, showed their class to hand the home side a 2-0 loss. In 16 rounds of competition, Marconi has only lost one match and came into the clash with Blacktown having won 9 of their last 10 games. Blacktown had won 6 of their last 7 but Marconi was on their game and despite the ‘Never Say Die’ approach by Mark Crittenden and his men, Marconi scored in both halves to secure the win.
The Marconi Stallions were mostly in control of the first half, keeping the ball firmly in their area despite a seemingly sturdy Blacktown City defence. Marconi Stallions’ persistence was rewarded midway through the half as Damien Tsekenis fought through a scrappy Blacktown City defence off a corner to slip the ball past Cayden Henderson and put the visitors 1-0 up.
Blacktown City picked up three yellow cards in the first half, the most contentious coming from Jak O’Brien whose heavy tackle on Marconi Stallions’ Tyren Burnie saw Marco Jesic race over to have some tense words with the striker. Burnie was last seasons MVP for Blacktown City and was signed by Marconi in the offseason. The signing proved to be the right decision as Burnie was Man of the Match against his former side.
A great Blacktown City chance came from Jak O’Brien in the 71st minute, with keeper Hilton’s deflection sending the ball into the crossbar and agonisingly out of play. That goal could have been a Game Changer as the momentum was swinging back to the home side. Marconi Stallions sealed their victory with less than five minutes of regulation to go, as Jesic slid a perfect cross to Franco Maya, whose strike went screaming past Henderson for the 2-0 win.
Marconi’s win extended their lead on top of the National Premier Leagues Men’s NSW ladder while
Blacktown moves down to equal 4th with Apia on a 9-3-4 record. Rockdale is in 2nd and NWS Spirit are third with a 9-4-3 record.
Blacktown and Spirit clash this Saturday, May 31st, in a game that is sure to be billed as the Game of Round 17. Spirit touched up Blacktown in Round 2 of the season with a resounding 3-0 win and Blacktown will be desperate to get the win and remain in touch with the Top 4 teams. The game is away at Christie Park and you can catch the action free via NPL. TV. Game time is 5:30pm.
Blacktown’s run in the Hahn Australia Cup will be tested in Round 7 of the National competition. Landen Stadium will play host to Blacktown City FC taking on League One Men’s high-flyers SD Raiders. Mark Crittenden’s troops love a Cup run and will be seen as favourites to progress however they come up against a formidable outfit in the Raiders who knocked out Rockdale Ilinden in Round 6 on penalties. The Raiders also defeated NPL1 side Wollongong Wolves in Round 5 so they will be looking to continue their ‘Giant Killing’ momentum.
Blacktown City Women are starting to heat up with a hard fought 2-1 win over Camden last week after a 0-0
Jak O’Brien VS Wollongong.
Captain Travis Major receiving a memento for his 300th game.
Danny Choi. Photos courtesy of Not24Get
draw with Sutherland. Blacktown Women gave a great showing in the Saphire Cup, winning in the first two rounds before going down to NPL Women’s side UNSW FC 3-0
in round 4 of the competition. Head Coach Michael Hawthorne was proud of his side that never gave up against a formidable opponent.
Go Blacktown City!
Round Two of the Master Pennant
BY NOEL ROWSELL
ROUND two of the 2025 Golf NSW The Master Pennant was held on Sunday, with many matches declared as ties due to an inability to use particular courses following Sydney’s recent deluge.
Results were as follows: Division 1 (home teams first) - Dunheved 4-4 with St Michaels, Asquith 4.5-3.5 over Stonecutters Ridge, Penrith 5-3 over Cronulla, Twin Creeks down 5.5-2.5 against Oak Point; Division 2 - North Ryde 4-4 with Springwood, The Coast 7.50.5 over Lynwood; Division 3 - Fox Hills 4-4 with Kareela, Massey Park 7-1 over Richmond, Antill Park 6-2 over Glenmore Heritage Valley, Wallacia down 4.5-3.5 to Strathfield, Roseville 4-4 with Leonay.
Next week’s home games - Dunheved vs Cabramatta 11:10am, Stonecutters Ridge vs Cronulla 11:15am, Penrith vs Asquith 11:30am, Glenmore Heritage Valley vs Strathfield 10:00am, Leonay vs Brighton Lakes 11:00am.
Away games - Twin Creeks at Pennant Hills, Springwood at Woolooware, Lynwood at Marrickville, Fox Hills at Campbelltown, Richmond at Beverley Park, Wallacia at Antill Park.
Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) finished tied 8th in the 2025 Northern Territory Amateur Championships, which were held at Darwin GC over 23-25 May.
Kade shot scores of 72/73/71 = 216 to finish 10 shots back from winner James Goffman (Royal Queensland GC).
Western Sydney golfers rich run of form
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WESTERN Sydney golfers have been in the headlines in several recent Interstate, Vardon (men), Jean Derrin (women) and Senior Order of Merit tournaments.
Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord GC) has been selected by Golf Australia to play in the ‘Uswing Mojing Junior World Golf Championships, which will be held in San Diego (USA) over 5-11th July.
Concord GC head professional David Northey (Penrith) said, “The tournament is the largest junior event in the world and we are honoured to have one of our own playing in it!”
The Uswing Mojing Junior World Golf Championships was founded in 1968 and are held in San Diego, California (USA) each year, currently in July, and conducted by the San Diego Junior Golf Association.
The inaugural tournament numbered 475 entrants, from 20 US states and six other countries. By 2003, there were 1,040 participants, from 43 US states and 45 other countries. Qualifying events are held in the U.S. and elsewhere.
Ti also shot 71/75/73/73 to finish 10th in the Port Phillip Open Amateur in Victoria over 1518th May, thus qualifying for the Victorian Men’s Amateur Championship on 19-20th May. Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge / Concord GC) also made the cut in the Port Phillip Open Amateur, shooting 75/72/82/70 to finish in a tie for 23rd, but did not qualify for the Match Play.
Ti subsequently had a solid 3&1 win over Christopher Buckland (Foster GC, VIC) in the first round of the Match Play (round of 16), then lost his Quarter Final (round of eight) 2&1 to Port Phillip Open Amateur champion Josiah Edwards (Gosnell GC, WA) to finish tied 5th.
Matthew Fullerton (Richmond / Lynwood GCC) shot a fabulous score of 67 to finish 1st in the Bankstown Cup on 10th May, whilst Ti Fox (Richmond / Concord Golf Club) shot 70 to finish in a tie for 3rd. Alex Radevski (Twin Creeks GCC) had 73 to finish tied 11th.
Annabelle Elina (Stonecutters Ridge GC) won the Pymble Cup & Bronze Salver tournament at Pymble GC on 12th May with a 4-over-par 76; Evelyn Oram (Richmond GC) won the Bonnie Doon Women’s Open on 20th May, shooting 5-over-par in atrocious conditions but significantly, recording birdies on 4 of the par 5 holes, whilst
Woolooware Cup on 10th May.
The SRIXON NSW Mid Amateur Championship is due to be held at Tamworth and Longyard golf courses over 1-3 June, depending upon the current wet, wild weather affecting the NSW east coast.
The tournament is open to amateurs who are 30 years of age and over, as at the first day of play, with a GA handicap of 12.4 and under for men, or 20.4 for women. It is stroke play over three rounds of 18 holes.
There are 16 players from western Sydney entered this year, including Christopher Sitanto, Dean Clarke, Martin Hooper and Matthew Herring from Fox Hills, Kristopher Clelland, Mark Stone and Riley Judd from Lynwood, Liam Hausfield and Michael Elliott from Penrith, David Bishop and Josh Cook from Glenmore Heritage Valley, Jacob Carpenter and Mark Cadle from Stonecutters Ridge and Dillyn Burazin from Dunheved.
fellow Richmond club-mate Sarah Meszaro finished 2nd in B Grade; Richmond GC Pro Shop employee Ryan Fletcher (Castle Hill CC) finished tied 3rd in the
Ti Fox in action.
Photo courtesy of Jimmy Emmanuel / Golf NSW
Evelyn Oram with the Bonnie Doon trophy.
Photo supplied by Tim Oram.
Annabelle Elina with the Pymble trophy. Photo courtesy of Pymble GC
Wayne Palmer (Richmond) in action during The Master Pennant. File photo by Noel Rowsell
