Western News 12 June 2020

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Friday, 12 June 2020

ISSUE 111

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Community sport for all ages is back from July 1

Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

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Blacktown Hospital legend named among Queen’s Birthday honours

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he ‘cornerstone of Blacktown Hospital’ has been named a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2020 Queen’s Birthday honours.

Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas was among seven distinguished people linked to Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and the Westmead Health Precinct, and 933 people around the country, to receive pre-eminent recognition for achievements and service to Australia today.

The general (or civil) division of the Order of Australia is comprised of four levels, in ascending significance: Medal of the Order (OAM), Member of the Order (AM), Officer of the Order (AO) and Companion of the Order (AC).

Emeritus Prof Zelas was previously awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, and in 2018 had the Western Sydney University Clinical School library at Blacktown Hospital named in his honour upon retirement.

Northmead resident Judith Louise Meppem was also recognised for her services to nursing administration and community health.

Judith is a former chief nurse and midwife in NSW and former director of nursing and midwifery at Westmead Hospital.

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy congratulated the recipients for the deserved recognition of their significant contributions to the nation.

“We are extremely fortunate to have such brilliant and hard-working people advancing health care and health education here in Western Sydney,” Graeme said.

“I’d like to thank Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas for his invaluable contributions to Blacktown Hospital.

He set the standard for patient care and the hospital wouldn’t be what it is today without his tireless advocacy.

“Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you for what you do to improve our great society.”

The recipients are as follows.

Companion (AC) in the General Division Belinda Hutchinson, for eminent service to business, to tertiary

Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas (second from right) at the opening of the Peter Zelas Library at the Western Sydney University Clinical School library, Blacktown Hospital.

education and scientific research, and through philanthropic endeavours to address social disadvantage. Ms Hutchinson is the 18th Chancellor of the University of Sydney, the partner university of Westmead Hospital since the teaching hospital’s opening in 1978.

Officer (AO) in the General Division Emeritus Professor Kim Oates, for distinguished service to paediatric medicine, as an advocate for child health and welfare, to medical education, and to professional societies. Emeritus Prof Oates is a clinical consultant and the head of undergraduate education at the NSW Clinical Excellence Commission.

Ms Judith Louise Meppem, from Northmead, was awarded for her significant service to nursing administration and community health.

Ms Meppem was the inaugural NSW Chief Nursing Officer for 12 years until 2002 and a former director of nursing and midwifery at Westmead Hospital. She has frontline experience as a nurse, midwife, nurse unit manager, assistant director of nursing, and deputy director of nursing.

Member (AM) in the General Division Dr John Curotta, for significant

Emeritus Prof Zelas is known for his humanitarian medical missions in many overseas countries.

service to medicine as an ear, nose and throat surgeon, and to Indigenous health. Dr Curotta was the director of the department of ear, nose and throat surgery at The Sydney Children’s Hospital at Westmead until his retirement.

Emeritus Professor Peter Zelas, for significant service to medicine, to health administration, and to humanitarian medical initiatives.

Emeritus Prof Zelas was instrumental in establishing the Clinical School at Blacktown Hospital, and contributed significantly to advancements in health care and medical education in Western Sydney.

Professor Stephen Garton, for significant service to tertiary education administration, and to history. Prof Garton is a professor of history and

the senior deputy vice-chancellor of the University of Sydney.

Medal (OAM) in the General Division Associate Professor Hadia HaikalMukhtar, for service to medicine and to the Lebanese community. A/ Prof Haikal-Mukhtar is head of the Auburn Clinical School, a partnership between Auburn Hospital and the University of Notre Dame Australia.

Public Service Medal Natalie Camilleri, for outstanding service to the NSW Government. Ms Camilleri is the executive director of City Planning Infrastructure for the Greater Sydney Commission, which seeks to transform Sydney into a metropolis of three cities with Parramatta the hub of the ‘central river city’.

Auburn Clinical School head A/Prof Hadia Haikal-Mukhtar (centre) was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia.

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Registered nurse Maria Aida and dental assistant Lorena Da Silva at the Blacktown Hospital main entrance COVID-19 screening station.

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hether you’re an employee, patient or visitor, we all have something in common: all of us are screened at the entrance to a Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) facility.

Health screening stations were introduced on 7 April across the district to help protect everyone from the spread of COVID-19.

Since then, our amazing staff – the “health gatekeepers” – have been deployed from different departments including ambulatory surgery, oral health, geriatric units, COVID-19 wards and the casual pool.

Veronica Morgan, enrolled nurse and a coordinator of health screening stations at Westmead Hospital, described her gatekeeping experience as rewarding.

“We felt the impact of our work as the number of COVID-19 cases plunged,” Veronica said.

“It’s not just about containing the virus. We triage arriving patients and make sure they’re sent in the right direction.

“It’s amazing to see how compliant and appreciative everyone is, and we’re thankful too. It’s great to see everyone being on board!”

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

Health gatekeepers will make your day

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Registered nurse Charmie Magayaga gets her temperature checked as part of the screening process at Blacktown Hospital.

Complete with a friendly greeting and big smile – entrance screening has become a favourite part of the day for many WSLHD employees.

Maria Korol from Westmead Education Conference Centre said screening stations made her feel safe.

“I’m new to NSW Health and WSLHD, and I feel confident coming to work. They are always so smiley and happy, we exchange jokes all the time,” she said.

“As much as I’m looking forward to our life getting back to normal, I will truly miss being greeted and asked how I’m feeling every morning.”

Aditi Mukherjee, registered nurse at Westmead ambulatory surgical unit, has been on rotation roster for screening stations over the past two weeks.

“We meet people from all walks of life here and even though it’s a very short encounter, we love to keep everyone positive and happy. Just a smile can go a long way,” Aditi said.

“Everyone appreciates our efforts, and we love it! It’s safety for all, that’s what matters!”

Westmead staff screen about 8000 people daily. WSLHD facilities are allocated 24,000 wristbands each day.

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Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

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Western News Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Sports Journalist: Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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Prospect

From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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t looks life is starting to resemble a form of ‘normal’ again, with many businesses who were closed during the pandemic tentatively swinging open their doors again.

On a global scale we have so far emerged as one of the luckiest there is, in terms of management of the contagion and our death toll.

This has no doubt been a horrendous time for many though. Over one hundred families lost a loved one to COVID-19. Many families had the worry of a loved one in hospital on a ventilator, or even dying, that they couldn’t visit and show their love. Many people lost their job. Many businesses were forced to close their doors.. some for good.

There’s also the indirect impact of COVID-19. People who’ve passed away due to something other than the virus, yet extended family and friends were prevented from honouring them at a funeral service.

We missed the opportunity to honour ANZAC Day in masses.

And we’ve postponed weddings, birthdays and many other important occasions.

But we haven’t had to dig mass graves to bury countless bodies, as some countries have had to do, so we must be thankful for that.

As we move forward to a place of optimism, I say once again to remember to shop at and support local businesses.

Also, as we go to press community sports organisations were happy that from July 1 all community sport can resume for all ages with no limit on numbers for training. It will be great to see not only children but all people who look forward to playing their favourite sport getting back to the Saturday and Sunday ritual of joining with the team and getting some enjoyable exercise.

Life is starting to look a bit more normal.

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Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

Millions invested into the future of Greater Sydney’s sport

By CONNER LOWE

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e o f f L e e , Acting Minister for Sport said 22 projects had been awarded nearly $40 million in Round Two of the Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund.

“There will be new pitches and grandstands, female friendly facilities and multiple courts for disability sports,” Mr Lee said.

“We are contributing to projects valued at a total of $120 million across Greater Sydney which will help stimulate the economy through jobs and investment.

“Renovating and renewing local sport infrastructure plays a vital role in keeping communities healthy, active and inclusive.”

Successful second round projects include $5 million to Blacktown City Council for the construction of two new and upgraded multi-purpose, inclusive playing courts at Mount Druitt which will create a disability sports hub in Sydney. $1.65 million has been awarded to

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Sutherland Shire council for an Active Sports Youth Precinct in Engadine.

These projects are part of a three-year $100 million investment through the Greater Sydney Sports Facility Fund to improve the quality and quantity of sports infrastructure across Sydney.

The investment into Greater Sydney’s sport is the beginning of good news for sporting communities.

Earlier in the week, the state government announced as of July 1 for those aged 18 years or younger sport will restart, with discussions involving senior sport still on going.

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Call for knitters to raise awareness of domestic violence

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lacktown City Council is putting out the call for knitters to take up their needles to raise awareness of domestic and family violence.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Last year we organised ‘Yarn In’ groups of knitters who came together every week to knit or crochet colourful squares and pompoms that were used to wrap the trees in and around the Blacktown Village Green.

“Under the stewardship of our Deputy Mayor, Councillor Julie Griffiths, the groups of women knitted more than a thousand squares during the six months of ‘knit ins’.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Despite many of us being in isolation we’re determined to ‘knit bomb’ Blacktown again this year,” Deputy Mayor Griffiths said.

“We want people to start knitting and crocheting now in their own homes and when the COVID-19 restrictions are eased, we’ll all get together for our ‘Yarn ins’.

“We want people to create as many squares and pom poms of all sizes and colours and we’re out to knit more than 1,100 squares.

“They will all be sewn together and used to knit bomb Blacktown during the campaign in November to raise

Blacktown’s Village Green was ‘knit bombed’ last year to raise awareness of domestic violence.

awareness about domestic violence.

“If you are a keen knitter, or even a beginner, you can be part of our awareness raising campaign.”

“The ‘Yarn Ins’ also provided a wonderful and informal meeting place

where people could discuss issues surrounding domestic and family violence.” Deputy Mayor Griffiths said.

Knitters are asked store their completed squares at home and if

restrictions aren’t eased in time to hold ‘Yarn ins’ they will be collected closer to the time of the installation.

The woollen squares will eventually be sown into blankets which will be distributed to local charities.

COVID-19 restrictions eased for sports training and libraries

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ollowing new directions from the Australian and New South Wales governments, Blacktown City Council has moved to further ease restrictions that had been put in place to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Council has a duty of care to ensure that any easing of the restrictions is being taken in the best interests of the health and economic wellbeing of our residents and businesses.

“Council had already reopened parks, reserves, gardens, playgrounds, outdoor gyms and allowed limited access to courts at the Blacktown Tennis Centre.

“Council is now moving to reopen Blacktown City Libraries and allow organised training sessions to be held on our sportsfields and at the Blacktown International Sportspark Athletics Centre.

“Limited swimming squad training can be held at Blacktown Aquatic Centre from Monday while Boot Camp training can now be held at both that venue and Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope.

“All of these facilities will operate under strictly enforced social distancing guidelines.

“It is important that we bring our cultural and sporting facilities back online for community use as soon as

the New South Wales Public Health Orders allow.

“However, I emphasise that the coronavirus is still in our communities and could flare up again if we don’t continue to be responsible, maintain social distancing, keep high levels of personal hygiene and get checked if any symptoms appear.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Blacktown City Council meetings will return to the Council Chambers with seating reconfigured to ensure social distancing between Councillors and staff.

Meetings will remain closed to the public with proceedings streamed live on Council’s website.

Venues and services affected by the latest easing of COVID-19 Public Health Order restrictions include: Blacktown City Libraries: • Full Mobile Library service has resumed • June 15 - Libraries open 9.30 am – 5.00 pm, with limited numbers and services. This opening is subject to the installation of perspex sneeze barriers. Programs will not resume, including children’s activities, technology training, film clubs, and book clubs. Material such as newspapers, children’s kits, chess sets will not be available • July 20 – Libraries resume normal opening hours with limited numbers.

Justice of the Peace services and some

programs will resume • All Blacktown City Libraries will operate under the one-personper-4 sqm rule. Additional sanitisers will be installed, daytime cleaning will be utilised and social distancing markings will be applied.

Blacktown City sportsfields • Re-opened for training for sporting clubs and organisations from 1June • Maximum groups of 10 people including coaches • Organisations hiring sportsfields must submit to Council a management plan that addresses all matters associated with undertaking training under the current COVID-19 Public Health Order before any training can begin.

• Clubs and sporting organisations will manage toilet facilities • No change rooms will be available.

Blacktown International Sportspark Athletics Centre • Re-opened for training, restricted to pass holders, maximum groups of 10 people including coaches.

Blacktown Aquatic Centre • Indoor 50 metre pool only at Blacktown Aquatic Centre to open from 5.30 am to 7.30 am and 4 pm to 7 pm Monday to Friday from 1 June for squad swimming only • Change room facilities will not be available • Consideration will be given to

reopening indoor pools Monday to Friday to the public when restrictions are lifted to allow more than 20 persons swimming at any one time • The indoor 50 metre pool will remain closed on weekends and public holidays until public restrictions are lifted to 50 or more persons swimming and learn to swim lessons are allowed to recommence.

Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope • Singles and doubles play allowed with a maximum of 4 people allowed on each court • Book and pay online and players must provide their own equipment.

The Blacktown Customer Information Centre in Council’s Administration Centre in Blacktown CBD remains closed for face-to-face service however service inquiries can be made by phone or online.

Council expects to open the Customer Information Centre in the near future.

Public access to the Administration Centre in Flushcombe Road is not allowed.

• Council website: www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au • Email: council@blacktown.nsw. gov.au • Online requests: www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Services/Report-andrequest • Customer service phone inquiries.9839 600.

Western News

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tay safe, stay healthy and stay connected is the message to older Australians from the Centre for Population Health at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

COVID-19 has brought many rapid changes to the way we live and work, and while many of us are able to easily access the latest health information from trusted sources online, older people may now be less connected to family and unfamiliar with the internet.

Many of their regular face to face activities and wellbeing programs have also been suspended, leaving many vulnerable older adults in need of extra support.

In response, the Centre’s Healthy Older People team has created some easy-to-understand COVID-19 fact sheets focused on three key messages: to stay safe, stay healthy and stay connected.

Each fact sheet provides clear information for older adults on what they can do to stay well in these challenging and often confusing times.

“With news stories often creating uncertainty, these fact sheets offer clear and easy to follow guidance on topics such as going out, medication, safe hygiene, medical care, being active and mental wellbeing,” Healthy Older People program officer Stephen Gammack said.

Lanying Rao pictured at the WSLHD Population Health Stepping On program at Greystanes Library.

The fact sheets, which are also available in Arabic, Chinese, Hindi and Punjabi.

The resources are one of a range of initiatives underway to keep contact with older adults who have taken part in our community programs.

“Our aim is to provide a vital link to support older adults with healthy choices during COVID-19,” Stephen said.

The team will deliver more information to local older community members over the coming weeks on topics including ‘Staying Active at Home’, ‘Safety in the Home’ and ‘Healthy food and drink choices’.

For more information on these fact sheets please contact the Healthy Older People team on 0434 023 098, or email kitty.kaur@health.nsw.gov.au or stephen.gammack@health.nsw.gov.au.

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Spreading simple health messages for older Australians

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

A change of plans

Making friends

By BEN CRANNEY

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ots of people won’t visit a place just because it is too well visited. ‘I only travel to places that are off the beaten track’, they’ll say, full of self important wankery. They think they are being independent and not influenced by travel trends, but they still use ‘well beaten’ cliches to explain their choices, and they won’t admit that the beaten path is well worn for a reason - it’s worth visiting.

On the long weekend, I followed a very well worn path from Sydney to Berry. And once I got there, I kept driving. It’s the first time I’ve ever decided that something is too well worn. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a beautiful place, and I’d love to go back mid-week, or at least not at a public holiday. But I found myself jostling for seats with half of Sydney at cafes that could have been transplanted straight from the inner west, hipsters included.

I headed further south, and found myself on the Grand Pacific Drive between Gerroa to Nowra. It’s a worthy replacement for a south coast excursion that

One of many coastal lookouts

Kiama inlet

many people describe as being like England. Pull into the Sir Kingsford Smith lookout to look down the length of Seven Mile Beach and the national park it backs on to. It was here that Kingsford Smith used the beach as a makeshift run way for the first commercial flight between Australia to New Zealand, taking off at 2:30am and landing 14 hours later.

Further along, the Coolangatta wine estate is centered around a convict built village that is now the premier winery in the region. Coolangatta means ‘fine views’ and from the top of the mountain, you can look out over the mouth of the Shoalhaven river.

Smaller wineries cover the landscape, and even the sterile stainless steal of the Manildra ethanol plant looks beautiful when contrasted with the hazy green hills.

Of course, Australia is the oldest continent, so it’s more accurate to say England looks like the south coast. You can delve into the geological history if you know where to look. Fossils abound on some of the rock ledges, and university geological classes often use the cliffs to teach students about mineral formation.

If that doesn’t interest you, you can just enjoy the natural beauty by following the sea on the Kiama to Gerringong walk, listening to the sea at the Kiama blowhole, or heading inland to Jervis Bay and watching for whales.

And if you have to change your plans when you get there, you’ll know that whatever you choose is just as nice.

Next time: actual England

Balance At Work

When was the last time you experienced rejection?

Was it following a job application? Perhaps you put forward a brilliant idea that was ignored or discounted by someone else on your team?

Rejection feels dreadful and most people will do whatever they can to avoid it. We can look at it on the flip side, however, and recognise that rejection can also be the start of something new and exciting.

How does rejection feel for you?

As humans, we are programmed to avoid rejection at all costs. Rejection from the tribe meant almost certain death to our distant ancestors. We have evolved to avoid rejection as a very natural survival mechanism but in the modern world this impulse can be counterproductive. If we fight these natural instincts we can build something positive out of these emotions.

When we fear public speaking, we fear rejection.

When we don’t make a sales call, it’s because we are afraid the answer will be ‘no’. Rejection is a

problem when it starts to dictate the way we operate our businesses.

A simple mindset change will dramatically shift the way you feel about rejection. Instead of worrying about what the worst outcome might be, consider that there might be many positive outcomes from an interaction.

What could be worse than rejection?

Our fear of rejection can sometimes lead us down a dark path. We want the world to see us as friendly, kind people so sometimes we lie and deceive people to hide rejection.

Lies, deceit and dishonesty can wear away the integrity of your business. Rejection can hurt, but it can move us forward. Uncertainty, on the other hand, leads nowhere.

Sometimes you’ve got to rip off the rejection bandaid to help better serve your customers, grow your business and motivate your staff.

How to handle rejection?

With Susan Rochester

When you have to give an answer to the question of employing someone, buying their product or trying their new ideas, there are only three possible responses: Yes No Maybe later By being honest about your intentions early, everyone can move on. The first two options are fairly clear. Use option three only if you mean it. In that case, give the other person a set date when you will be ready to provide a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer.

Don’t keep them guessing! Not knowing can be worse than ‘no’.

What do you think?

Do you agree we could all be more happy and productive if we were a little more honest with each other? Next time someone tries to sell you an idea, product or service, will you be able to override your fear of rejection and give them an honest answer?

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

or email susanr@balanceatwork.com.au www.balanceatwork.com.au

Western News

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he Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) mobile screening van will visit the St John of God Hospital, 2 Day Street, Windsor from 16 June until 22 July.

In addition, screening has commenced in BCI Sunflower clinics located in Myer stores at Blacktown, Castle Hill, Parramatta and Penrith.

Clinics are also operational at Auburn, Katoomba, Mount Druitt and Westmead Hospitals.

BreastScreen NSW Sydney West, which is managed by the Westmead BCI, provides free mammograms to eligible women aged between 50 and 74 in the Western Sydney and Nepean Blue Mountains area.

BCI staff have taken all necessary measures in relation to COVID-19 to protect women, staff and the wider community in all BreastScreen services.

This includes: • Pre-screening questions around personal health and travel • Limiting the number of people in the clinic/van • Practicing social distancing and providing hand sanitizer in waiting rooms • A minimal contact check-in process • Additional cleaning of equipment and commonly used surfaces.

Westmead BCI director Associate Professor Nirmala Pathmanathan says a screening

mammogram is one of the most important things women aged 50-74 can do for their health.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,” Nirmala said.

“Around 90 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. This is why breast cancer screening is so important for all eligible women.”

“Bringing this vital service means more local women can be screened for their two yearly mammogram. Life gets busy and we want women to make their health a priority.”

The mobile van is in town from 16 June until 22 July and is located on the grounds of the St John of God Hospital, 2 Day Street, Windsor.

The service is free and there’s no referral needed.

Mobile vans have the latest digital mammography technology and secure wireless communication system.

The NSW Government, through the Cancer Institute NSW, is investing $62.2 million in breast cancer screening this financial year.

To book a mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, call 13 20 50 or visit book.www.breastscreen.nsw. gov.au.

NSW Government launches COVID Safe Check for businesses

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usinesses will be able to check, test and promote their COVID Safe credentials with the launch of the NSW Government’s online COVID Safe Check.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the online tool would help businesses get back to work safely.

“With the recent easing of restrictions thousands of businesses are reopening their doors and welcoming back customers,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We have put industry specific information under the one roof, including downloadable badges for businesses with COVID Safe plans to display in their premises, so customers know they have the tick of approval.

“Customers can also use the tool to provide feedback in real-time.

Feedback is sent to the business and, if necessary, to the regulator for action.”

Mr Dominello said the tool is simple to use, with more than

8,000 businesses having already downloaded a COVID Safety Plan template, which is stage one of the process and already available.

“Businesses need to complete three easy steps – visit nsw.gov.au, go through industry specific guidance,

and register and download materials,” Mr Dominello said.

“Businesses will be told what they need to do to be COVID Safe. This may include physical distancing, cleaning and record keeping requirements.

Once businesses have completed the above steps and finalised their COVID Safe plan they will be able to complete an online self-declaration.

“Businesses will also be provided with advice on how to integrate their COVID Safe status with Google Maps, giving customers a bird’seye view of COVID Safe businesses when searching online. This gives them peace of mind and an incentive for businesses to register.”

The COVID Safe Check will go live today and will be available at www.nsw.gov.au

Rent relief for dv victims Hundreds of women escaping domestic violence during COVID-19 have been supported into safe and secure housing through a NSW Government rental subsidy.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said domestic and family violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and children and Rent Choice Start Safely is helping to prevent it.

“Start Safely is one of a range of programs supporting those at risk of homelessness to keep a roof over their head while we help them get back on their feet,” Mr Ward said.

“We are working hard to identify people at risk of homelessness during this challenging time, and are providing them with the support

they need to secure housing.”

More than 350 individuals and families have been supported by Start Safely packages, which provide three years of rental subsidies in the private rental market, as well as access to services and support to help them sustain their tenancy.

Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the program is providing the critical support women and children need.

“Everyone has a right to live a life free from violence and abuse. This program is an example of the crucial support available to help victims and their children enter, or remain in secure and affordable housing,” Mr Speakman said.

“By providing access to services to help with training and employment opportunities as well, we

can support victims to live independently and most importantly, safely.”

The NSW Government is investing $20 million in additional rental subsidies until June 2021 to enable people to access and sustain private rental accommodation.

More than 500 new households started to receive Rent Choice assistance from 27 March this year, including through Rent Choice Start Safely, Rent Choice Youth and Rent Choice Assist.

For confidential advice, support and referrals related to domestic and family violence, contact: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 6463) or Men’s Referral Service (1300 766 491).

If you are in danger or in an emergency, contact Triple Zero (000).

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Breast screening safely returns

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Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

An Unmarked Grave

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

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ith no headstone or grave site, there lies in the cemetery of St Mary Magdalene Anglican church at St Marys one John Bootle (Jnr), born in Pitt Town in Windsor NSW in 1815.

He was the son of convict John Bootle and Catherine (Soars). John (Snr) was born in Somerset England in 1771. Sentenced to transportation, he arrived in Sydney in 1790 aboard the “Neptune” as part of the Second Fleet. In December 1796, land grants at Mulgrave Place were given by Governor Hunter and in 1800 John (Snr) was granted 30 acres of land there. He married Catherine Soars in 1808.

She was born in 1792 and the daughter of convict John Soars who came on the “Surprize” in 1790. John’s convict wife Sarah Guest came on the “Mary Ann” in 1791. In October 1815 John (Snr) was on the list of settlers supplying fresh meat to “His Majesty’s Stores” in Sydney.

This supply continued through to 1820. In 1830 two convict prisoners, Alexander McMichael and James Patterson who were employed by John at Windsor absconded with stolen Tickets of Leave and seeking their return by the Convicts Office. In 1834 John (Snr) was indicted for stealing a brindle bullock the property of John Single Esq. of the Nepean, but was found not guilty and held over on another charge of stealing two cows with Thomas Collidge the property of John Davis of Jerry’s Plains, but both were found not guilty as it was found they had bought cows that were wrongly branded. John (Jnr) married Mary Ann Smith and in 1848 left Pitt Town and moved his family to take over a “halfway house” between Parramatta and Penrith, formerly known as the “Penrith Inn.” John changed it to the “Bell and Crown” and later it was known as the “Gold Diggers Arms” in 1853 (See History Page October 2014). The inn at that time was described as a building of brick with eight rooms and a bar and taps. He started his business as the innkeeper where he boasted “a choice selection of the best Ales, Wines and Spirits and he hoped by civility and attention to the wants of his customers, combined with moderate charges to obtain a share of their patronage stating good aired beds and commodious paddocks with gigs and saddle horses for hire”. In October 1851 an inquest into the death of James Smith of “Smithfield” at Erskine Park (John’s father-in-law) at John’s tavern that started with a quarrel between John and Mary Ann and she left to go home to her father. She later returned to the Tavern with her father to pick up some of her clothes but John said no and confiscated a small box that she gave to her father and said he wouldn’t let her leave the tavern and this started another quarrel between the two.

With this, her father struck John with the bone knob handle of a riding whip and John retaliated and hit James with an iron bar that he had been using to open some syrup and James fell onto a sofa.” Mary Ann screaming, washed her father’s head as he laid on the sofa and Dr Rutter was sent for and found “James lying on his back perfectly insensible with a contused and lacerated wound on the upper part of the right side

of the head”. Reverend Woodd who was in attendance said that “James had not been able to converse with him as he could not speak, and he bled considerably and lingered till three o’clock in the morning when he expired”. Witness’s called to testify were Catherine Charlotte Dick, daughter of Mrs Ellard who was visiting with James’s wife. Eleanor Smith, Mary Ann’s sister said she saw the iron bar in John’s hand when her sister and John were wrangling in the taproom and her father was also there. She said “her sister was behind the counter and she was in the passageway and it was about five minutes after she saw the iron bar in John’s hand and her father’s head cut and the bone knob on the whip that her father had in his hand”. This then finalised the evidence and the Coroner Mr C B Lyons explained the law as laid down in “ Sewell’s Law of Coroners.” (this requires that when an inquest is held the Coroner must record in writing his findings as to various aspects of the death). The Jury after some consideration, returned a verdict of manslaughter against John who was then committed to trial.

At the trial the Jury returned a verdict of manslaughter against John who was committed and found guilty, with a recommendation to mercy and sentenced to six months imprisonment at Darlinghurst Gaol where he entered in December 1851. By 1853 he was offering a £20 reward for information to enable him to prosecute the thief or thieves after his stores at St Marys were burgled and certain property stolen. In January 1855 John (now a carrier) was asleep while returning with his dray from Bathurst when the horses went too near the side of the road and the dray fell into a deep ditch with John beneath its weight. With the dray on his thighs and the lower part of his stomach he lingered until morning when he was discovered and had sufficient strength left to give directions as to the easiest way of extricating him. After the dray was raised and he was removed, he died. After the inquest, a verdict of accidental death was returned. The six horses were uninjured. It was said that “he would be long and favourably remembered by the storekeepers and merchants of Bathurst and its vicinity for the rapidity with which he performed his journeys and his undeviating punctuality and sobriety”. It seems that the cash handed over as the amount found on him was not all that he had made, because not only had someone come along before he was found and cut his pocket from his trousers and actually ripped open the lining of his coat. His bills of lading and every scrap of paper were destroyed as none were found. His burial at St Mary Magdalene cemetery (See sketch of Church) officiated by Reverend Elijah Smith.

Sources: Historical Records of NSW, “People of Australia” National Centre of Biography website, Sydney Morning Herald, Sydney Monitor, Historical Records of Australia-“The Dawn of Rural Settlement in Australia”, RAHS Journal, Sydney Gazette & NSW Advertiser, Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser, Ancestry, Goulburn Herald & County of Argyle Advertiser, Darlinghurst Gaol Entrance Book (Online), (1815 Pitt Town map p109/Plot 45)-Sketch of Church courtesy of National Library of Australia.

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ENTERTAINMENT

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

SUDOKU: EASY

Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

SUDOKU: EASY

17

SOLUTIONS: 29 May EASY

medium

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 Make full (4) 9 An expression of

contempt (5) 10 Tall woody perennial

grass (4) 11 Connect (6) 12 Returned to original

condition (8) 13 Walked unsteadily (8) 15 Periodicals (6) 17 A type of sugar (7) 19 Genius (slang) (7) 22 Zodiacal twins (6) 24 Stone pits (8) 26 Disintegrate (8) 28 Assistant (6) 30 Male cow (4) 31 Receives (5) 32 Hurried (4)

solution 29/5/20

down 1 Soil (4) 2 An ornamental poisonous shrub (8) 3 Biblical heroine (6) 4 Demean (7) 5 Bandaging (8) 6 They care for horses (6) 7 Expunge (4) 14 The female germ cell of a plant (5) 16 Exhilarate (5) 18 Frypans (8) 20 Innocuous (8) 21 Mouse sounds (7) 23 An affront (6) 25 Appalled (6) 27 Promissory notes (4) 29 X X X X (4)

REAL ESTATE

Western News

How will coronavirus affect the Self Employed or Contractors?

Alex Soncini

T

urbulent does not even begin to describe 2020 so far. As a result of COVID-19 thousands of Australians are out of work, and the federal government estimates that 1 million people could be unemployed as the economic effect of the coronavirus sets in.

Many others have had their hours reduced or have been temporarily stood down. A long period of low unemployment has left many Australians unprepared for a period of reduced income as the economic effect of the coronavirus sets in.

In this period of uncertainty, many banks have temporarily changed their home loan application process due to the widespread disruption to many Australian incomes from the coronavirus fallout. Casual employees or contractors may not be considered for a mortgage under the bank’s new rules.

Many high-risk industries such as tourism, hospitality, entertainment, personal services (hairdressers, restaurants, pubs etc.) and personal transport (taxis or ubers) have already been hit hard by the crisis.

Banks will be far less likely to rely on unstable income types in these industries, for example casual, contract, temporary, seasonal, commission, overtime or bonuses which may not be consistent into the future.

People who are self-employed or

contractor were in a unique situation, many experienced challenges when it came to taking out home loan application before coronavirus. Bank policies will continue to change as banks shift from helping existing customers to protecting their loan books with new customers.

The opinion it seems by many banks is “No job” is safe in this environment and this will affect the economy.

Getting a home loan application requires preparation and the process can be lengthy due to banks changed work conditions due to coronavirus with staff working from home, social distancing. An application process can take several weeks to months for conditional approval.

What can you do to prepare?

• Talking to your clients and employers about their plans and your role for the future.

• Helping your clients plan for this crisis, and if they’re successful, then you will be too.

• Figuring out how to continue working/provide your services remotely.

• Agreeing with staff for everyone to have reduced hours rather than have one person lose their job.

• Consolidate your debts into your home loan.

• Cut/reduce unnecessary expenses.

• Look for additional sources of income.

• Create an emergency fund.

There is likely to be plenty of work to be done; however, it may be in a different sector or location to your normal work conditions.

Given the current low interest rate environment, it may be a good time for refinancing to lock in a lower rate providing your income remains stable and can be verified.

Rates are at all-time lows “You can build buffers through equity by extending your loan. And you might not be able to refinance later if your income sources decrease or change, so it’s one of the best things you can do to lower your risk right now.”

A pre-approval isn’t rock solid, lenders can change their decision

and will renege on them if they see a risk. It’s best to have a cooling-off period or to discuss the risks with your mortgage broker before you go to auction.

Wealthwiz can actively assist you in navigating your current situation.

So, if you’ve been thinking about reassessing your finances, simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is selfemployed or contractor and looking to apply for a home loan.

Got a question? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the home loan market for self-employed borrowers. Wealthwiz is here to help.

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Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

18

DISCLAIMER: OWNER OCCUPIED. Auswide Bank Ltd ABN 40 087 652 060. Australian Credit Licence 239686 is the credit issuer. Approval is subject to meeting our credit assessment criteria. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Prior to entering into a credit contract with us you should read our Credit Guide. # This offer represents a special discount of 0.80% off the applicable standard fixed rate. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without notice and is not available for existing loans, loans to fund investment property, loans with an LVR over 90%, ‘interest only’ loans, loan ‘pre-approvals’ or for loans to overseas residents. An annual package fee applies. ~Auswide Bank is a panel lender for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS). Eligibility criteria apply. Once the Scheme allocation for non-major panel lenders has been utilised (or taken up), standard lending approval criteria, including the need for LMI where appropriate, will apply. ^Comparison Rate is based on secure loan of $150,000 or more over 25 years. WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees and cost savings such as fee waivers are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. +Break costs may apply.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

W

indsor CC is the next club to feature in our series of Player Profiles, beginning with its 2019 Men’s and Junior Club Champions.

Matthew Hanckel

Men’s champion Jason Moss has split his golfing life between Windsor CC and Richmond GC, achieving great success at both courses.

Junior champion Matthew Hanckel has only been playing for 4 years but already has two Club Championships under his belt.

Age:

1. When did you start playing Golf: 2016 2. Starting Handicap: 36 3. Current Handicap: 4.5 4. Major Achievements: Junior Club Champion twice at Windsor CC; Winner of the Windsor CC Junior Classic; Runner-up NSW Junior Pro-Am, Member of Windsor CC Encourage Shield team and Pennant team.

5. What’s in the Bag: (Undisclosed brands / styles) 6. Future Aspirations: Play socially and enjoy it.

7. Favourite Club: Driver 8. Biggest Highlight: Winning the Junior Club Championship twice in a row and winning the Windsor CC Junior Classic. Also playing alongside Professionals Michael Choi, Terry Price and Mark Brown. I played in the NSW Junior Pro-Am with Mark and won, then went on to Caddy for him in the NSW Open.

Jason Moss

Age: 48

1. Where and when did you start playing golf: Started in 1993 at Richmond GC 2. Starting Handicap: 12 3. Current Handicap: +1 4. Major Achievements: Windsor CC Club Champion 2017 & 2019; Windsor CC Foundation Cup Winner 2019; Sydney Metro Major Pennant Winner 2016 (Richmond GC); Sydney Metro Major Pennant Winner 2019 (Richmond GC); Foursomes Champion 2001 & 2010 (Richmond GC) and 2019 (Windsor CC) 5. What’s in the Bag: Callaway Bertha Driver, Taylor Made Irons 2-PW, Taylor Made 50°, 54° and 58° Wedges, Taylor Made Spyder X Putter, Titleist ProV Ball, Footjoy Shoes.

6. Future Aspirations: My eligibility for Senior Order of Merit (SOOM) is fast approaching and sounds like fun.

7. Favourite Club: I don’t have a favourite – every club plays up from time to time.

8. Biggest Highlight: I honestly can’t split winning my first individual Club Championship in 2017 at Windsor CC and winning Richmond GC’s first-ever Pennant title in 2016. They are both very special to me. If I was pushed, the Pennant win stands out because I was able to share it with a great group of mates.

Richmond Club reopens it’s doors

S

o glad to be back.

Staff, management and directors of Richmond Club are excited to welcome back our members to the Francis Street venue with the easing of government restrictions on Monday, 1 June.

Our very first members came through the doors right at the 11am opening time, eagerly taking part in our quick, new entry procedures.

They’ve embraced the new routine of temperature checks by door marshals, hand sanitisation and divided entry/exit door flow as part of the States Government required entry procedures for contacttracing for clubs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CEO Kimberley Talbot said Richmond Club has ensured all the conditions set out in the reopening business plan are being adhered to for both staff and members’ health and wellbeing.

“We are pleased we have been able to open safely with most services available,” Ms Tablot said.

“We’ve taken every step we can very seriously, to ensure we implemented the detailed operating plan.

“We’re here, we’re open and we’re ready to serve you.”

With a raft of State Government and Health NSW restrictions being lifted every day as part of the roadmap to return to trading, we ask members to check our Facebook page and website for daily updates as services continue to rollout and return.

The club has regulatory social distancing, strict cleaning schedules, sanitizer stations, temperature checks and all staff have been trained in COVID-19 infection control procedures.

This week members can look forward to: • Virtual members draw: Stash the Cash $200

to win every Monday, swipe your member card at reception to enter; • New mega Mums and Dads raffle with over $45,000 in prizes; • Villaggio family deal $100 – all you can eat pizza and pasta for 2 adults + 2 children (third child free). Includes Nutella dessert pizza. Children aged up to 15yrs; • Amber Hair Salon – now open; • Wanderest Travellers Park – now open; • Active8 gym and fitness centre looks to return 13 June; • Arcadia Entertainment – will open when government restrictions allow • Richmond Golf Clubhouse will open as part of stage 2 rollout.

Details: www.richmondclub.com.au Call 4578 1144 more information or bookings.

Western News 12 June 2020 Issue 111

Local golf’s high achievers

19

Western News Friday, 12 June 2020

SPORT

Hyundai A-League set for June restart

By CONNER LOWE

F

ootball Federation Australia (FFA) CEO James Johnson confirmed this week that FFA, the Hyundai A-League clubs and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) have reached agreement on a comprehensive plan for the re-start of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season.

James Johnson spoke about the commitment from all parties to proceed and finish the remainder of the 2019/20 Hyundai A-League season.

“We are committed to delivering the completion of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season and have agreed a comprehensive plan with the Hyundai A-League clubs and the PFA,” he said.

“All parties have worked together extremely hard behind the scenes to ensure the professional game is ready to resume.

“We are now looking forward to the agreement of our broadcast partner, Fox Sports, to our fixture proposal and timings. That’s the final piece of the jigsaw and once we have it in place we can move forward quickly.”

The plan is based on a hub approach which will allow for innovative commercial and broadcast opportunities. It incorporates best practice health protocols for players and officials and provides a schedule that will bring a constant stream of games

over a 35-day program.

“Ideally mid-June will see players return to training, allowing them to reach the required elite level of fitness for competitive matches to commence by mid-July, and for the Hyundai A-League Finals Series to be completed by mid-August.” Johnson added.

“The proposed timing will mean that the culmination of the Hyundai A-League will coincide with the re-start of Australian grassroots football, connecting the professional game and our two million participants like never before.”

PFA Chief Executive John Didulica said many

players had endured an incredibly challenging period, but their collective focus had always remained on returning to play, whilst demonstrating their commitment to the game and its wellbeing.

“The organisation is incredibly proud of the players’ commitment, leadership and contribution to preserving the integrity of the A-League during this unprecedented challenge to Australian football.

“In the absence of a vibrant professional competition there is a flow on effect for the whole game. Today we took an important step with the clubs and FFA toward ensuring the health of the game’s short and long-term future.

Greg O’Rourke, Head of Hyundai A-League spoke about the strategies discussed to help promote and broadcast the A-League to the fans daily.

“The hub strategy means that we have a unique opportunity to showcase the Hyundai A-League through a different lens and we will be including new and innovative elements to the matchday broadcast experience.

“Our focus is also on optimising the broadcast flow and therefore providing football content seven days a week. We believe that there are great opportunities for our broadcast partner and therefore the fans.”

The discussion regarding the return of the Hyundai A-League is good news for all Australian Football fans as we begin to look ahead for the remainder of the 2019/20 season.