Western News 15 May 2020

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Friday, 15 May 2020

ISSUE 109

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Restrictions ease Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced NSW will ease COVID-19 restrictions across the state, with Health Minister Brad Hazzard adding that “without a vaccine we need to be vigilant.” More inside.

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Jobs, jobs, jobs: hundreds of positions available at Western Sydney Local Health District

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ant to join our heroic team tackling COVID-19?

Here’s your chance to apply for a number of casual and temporary jobs now available at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

WSLHD is responsible for delivering and managing public health care across more than 120 suburbs in western Sydney.

It is home to Westmead, Blacktown, Mount Druitt, Cumberland and Auburn hospitals, and a range of community health centres working to keep close to a million residents healthy.

WSLHD People & Culture director Luci Caswell said hundreds of jobs are on offer.

“Everyone in our organisation is on the front line: the doctor, the nurse, the cleaner or the administration worker … everyone is playing a big part in the fight against COVID-19,” Luci said.

“We’re also building a pool of eligible candidates – so anyone interested in working with us can send in their resume and we’ll add it to our talent database.

“This will help us quickly source talented candidates when jobs become vacant. Applicants will still need to go through employment checks but it will significantly speed up the process.”

Some of the jobs on offer include: • Cleaners • Doctors • Porters • Orderlies • Mailroom staff • Human resources professionals • Nurses • Physiotherapists • Social workers • Administration officers • Drivers • Wayfinding guides And the list goes on.

Come and work with us at WSLHD!

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy encouraged community members including those from our Aboriginal community, to consider an available position.

“Apply today and be part of our staff who are changing the face of health care every day, and working to keep the people across western Sydney safe and healthy,” Graeme said.

To view available roles search for Western Sydney Local Health District at https://iworkfor. nsw.gov.au/ To be added to our talent pool email your resume to WSLHD-TalentPool@health.nsw.gov.au or visit this website.

To learn more about WSLHD, visit: www.wslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/About-Us

Hand hygiene more important than ever

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taff from Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals took time out of their busy schedules to focus on the importance of washing their hands for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Hand Hygiene Day on 5 May. Staff and the community are well rehearsed with hand washing this year to stop the spread of COVID-19, so the annual day served as a timely reminder of the best procedure.

This year’s campaign theme ‘Save lives: Clean your hands’ recognises the critical role health workers play with infection control to patients and themselves from infection.

Infection Prevention and Control nurse consultant Nicole Tolhurst said her team visited the wards to promote good hand hygiene to staff and patients.

“This year, it was really easy to remind people of hand hygiene and the correct procedures for washing hands because everyone has seen how important it is,” Nicole said.

“Congratulations to the staff who were awarded hygiene packs consisting of hand wash, moisturiser, hand sanitiser and chocolates for accurately completing a quiz.”

Blacktown Hospital respiratory registered nurse Claire Vankuyk and Infection Prevention and Control clinical nurse consultant Lesly Mathew.

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Heritage Oak Tree takes centre stage

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new park in Schofields is rapidly nearing completion and could be ready for post COVID-19 fun and recreation.

The major work has been completed on the $840,600 park at the corner of Oallen Place and Bannaby Crescent, Schofields, with residents set to enjoy their new park in July.

Centre of attention in the new park is an ancient, heritage-listed Oak Tree that is more than 100 years old.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “We have preserved this majestic Oak Tree not only as a focal point in the new park but also as a link to the region’s farmland heritage.

“According to the old parish map of the area, this land was part of a property named Alcoynton owned

by Mr Robert Fopp.

“Early last century there would have been farm animals sheltering under this Oak Tree, soon you’ll see families relaxing under those same branches.

L-R: Councillors Chris Quilkey and Moninder Singh join Mayor Tony Bleasdale in checking out the facilities and Oak Tree in the new park in Schofields.

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

“There is seating, paths and shade included to make the park as comfortable, accessible and inclusive to as many people in the community as possible.

“Blacktown City has the greatest area of open space of any Council area in the Sydney metropolitan region with 34 square kilometres of parks, reserves and playing fields.

“Council is committed to providing the best possible recreation facilities for our residents in more than 400 parks and 1000 reserves across the City.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The works go well beyond the playground area with more than 800 additional native trees, grasses and shrubs being planted along the creek line and throughout the park, providing a natural habitat for the native bird and animal population.

The playground area includes a swing set with an inclusive net swing, in-ground trampolines, a fort including viewing platforms and slide, a net bridge and several climbing structures.

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

From farmland to parkland

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

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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 Sports Journalist: Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 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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Vineyard Riverstone Rouse hill Marsden Park Kellyville Ridge

Schofields Shanes Park Colebee

Ropes Crossing

Quakers Hill

Hassall Grove

St Marys

Dean Park Glendenning

Emerton

Plumpton

Stanhope Gardens Parklea

Kings Park Marayong

Woodcroft

Kings Langley Lalor Park

Mt Druitt Rooty Hill Minchinbury

Blacktown

Seven Hills

Arndell Park Toongabbie

Eastern Creek

Prospect

From the General Manager’s Desk

By BART BASSETT

I

want to firstly congratulate all State and Territory leaders as well as the Prime Minister and his senior cabinet colleagues on how successfully the National Cabinet has operated throughout the Covid-19 crisis. I think everyone in leadership across the nation has really stepped up and shown how good leadership can operate when the safety of the community is put first and politics second.

Unfortunately many people in the bureaucracy at a State and Federal level seem to think it is business as usual and red tape road blocks need to be maintained as part of their usual agenda. The leaders in government can make all the wellintentioned policy and press release announcements, but unless the heads of each government department ensure the culture in the organisation is about being a fixer rather than a hinderer, nothing changes.

Despite jobs being the focus by the government at the moment, we have some in particular departments looking for any excuse not to solve problems and seem to be happy to allow issues to drag on for months and even until next year because they are unwilling to look for solutions through constructive mediation. I hope this is because of a lack of understanding the facts of the matter rather than one of ‘I know best.’ One thing is for sure conversation between all parties rather than stonewalling will broaden the mind and, who knows a conversation just might find a solution.

So many businesses and jobs have been destroyed or put into a coma because of actions that had to be taken throughout the Covid-19 restrictions. Even after being encouraged by government to lift their game and work with applicants to solve problems nothing changes. Do we put that down to arrogance or lack of empathy in the Department or weak Ministers not wanting to upset their Department because they see themselves as part of the job protected club?

One thing is for sure, I see saving jobs as the most important role government has at the moment because I feel for families who don’t know where their income is going to come from going forward. Government needs to be strong and tell Ministers there is an expectation that all people working inside their portfolio responsibility will have a “can do” attitude rather than a “make things difficult” attitude, If they can’t see themselves having that positive “can do” attitude then there are plenty of people on the unemployment list with plenty of life experience who will be willing to take their place and join the guaranteed job club.

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ember for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla MP, recently announced applications are now open for the 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, unlocking $27.9 million for community infrastructure projects across NSW. Mr Atalla MP said $300,000 is available for projects in each NSW electorate, including Mount Druitt, and urged local councils and not-forprofit groups to apply for the funds they need to deliver projects with social, environmental and recreational outcomes.

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2020 Community Building Partnerships program now open

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“Local sports clubs, charities, schools and museums are just some of the groups that benefit from this program,” Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla MP said.

“If your organisation or club needs extra funding for infrastructure, such as playgrounds, accessible features, equipment or refurbishment, then I’d strongly encourage you to apply.”

The Community Building Partnership program has awarded more than $330 million in funding to 15,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

“This program means that you can support your community group to improve the places you meet, train or play,” Mr Atalla MP said.

“Take the time to prepare and submit your application so your community group doesn’t miss out on a share of $300,000.”

Applications are open from Monday 4 May 2020 and close at 5pm, Friday 12 June 2020. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible.

For more information about the NSW Government’s 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, visit: the www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

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Rouse Hill – Blacktown Seven Hills – Melbourne

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Nsw to ease restrictions this week

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remier Gladys Berejiklian has announced NSW will further ease COVID-19 restrictions across the State from Friday.

Ms Berejiklian said that after assessing the new framework from National Cabinet and discussing the NSW impacts with state Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant, it was safe for NSW to ease further restrictions as the community was vigilant with social distancing and hygiene.

“My firm position during the crisis has been to follow the health advice and do what’s best for NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Our community has demonstrated that by working together we can achieve positive results.

“The changes will allow NSW to fire up the economy, while allowing more personal freedoms.

“We will continue to closely monitor COVID-19 rates, especially community transmissions, to guide us towards easing further restrictions.”

From Friday 15 May, the following will be allowed in NSW, in addition to measures already announced: • Outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people • Cafes and restaurants can seat 10 patrons at any one time • Up to 5 visitors to a household at any one time • Weddings up to 10 guests • Indoor funerals up to 20 mourners, outdoor funerals up to 30 • Religious gatherings/places of worship up to 10 worshippers

• Use of outdoor equipment with caution • Outdoor pools open with restrictions It is too soon to allow for regional holidays and ease further restrictions but NSW will continue to

work with business and communities during the path forward.

Dr Chant backed the move to cautiously lift the restrictions, and urged people to be vigilant.

“The chief health officers of the Commonwealth and States supported by experts have prepared advice on the way forward,” Dr Chant said.

“As we take this next step we need to continue to work together – governments, community, business and NGOs – with high rates of testing, social distancing and adherence to other public health measures like handwashing and staying at home if you show even slight symptoms.”

Ms Berejiklian thanked the community as the State embarked on this important step that would allow more businesses to open up and more people to stay in work.

“NSW can only do this following the hard work and sacrifice of our communities,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“It has allowed us to boost our intensive care capacity, ramp up our testing and enhance contact tracing so we can better manage any outbreaks.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the COVID-19 fight was far from over.

“Without a vaccine we need to be vigilant, especially when restrictions lift,” Mr Hazzard said.

“There will inevitably be more cases, so social distancing will become even more crucial.”

The NSW Government will consider steps two and three of the plan in due course.

Billion-dollar revamp on the way for Mt Druitt cbd T

he NSW Government has announced the approval of a $1.49 billion revamp of the Mt Druitt CBD, which will create 15,000 jobs and breathe new life into Western Sydney.

The green light for the rezoning proposal paves the way for more than 2,800 new homes to be built in the precinct, as well as new cafés, restaurants, retail outlets and commercial space in taller buildings.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Mt Druitt CBD rezoning was one of the first projects to have its assessment fast-tracked as part the Planning System Acceleration Program that is keeping people in jobs and the economy moving during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This project has been three years in the making and marks the beginning of an exciting new future for Western Sydney,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“More than 2,900 construction jobs will be created to build this vibrant new hub, as well as thousands more permanent jobs as the new CBD comes to life.”

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the Mt Druitt CBD rezoning is the sixth project to be determined through the Government’s new fast-tracked assessment program. “In the past two weeks alone, the Planning System Acceleration Program has injected $1.87 billion in to the State’s economy and created opportunities for more than 16,000 jobs,” Mr Stokes said. “Today’s approval is another exciting step forward for Western Sydney and means development applications for the Mt

Druitt CBD can be lodged immediately.” The NSW Government has worked closely with Blacktown City Council to amend its Local Environmental Plan, which rezones 24 hectares of land to facilitate more mixed-use commercial and residential development.

Stephen Bali MP, said “what the Planning Minister won’t tell you is that these plans sat idle for three years with the State Government until they came up with “fast track” marketing spin to make the announcement.”

“The State Government also failed to mention that at this stage there is no State or Federal funding to help upgrade the infrastructure to support this ambitious project and that the funding is all left to the developers, businesses, community and Blacktown Council to make it happen.”

“Whilst they have taken the foot off the neck of Mt Druitt’s redevelopment, Blacktown CBD and Riverstone CBD and Riverstone West precinct plans are all being delayed because of objections from RMS and Infrastructure NSW.” “We have billions of dollars of investment to build a university, accommodation, commercial and industrial centres and State Government departments are objecting to Riverstone and Blacktown because it means that the State has to help to design and finance supporting road infrastructure.

“Blacktown City is an $18.8 billion economy increasing at an average of 4% per annum with a population growth of approximately 10,000 per annum; one of the fastest growing areas in

Australia and the State and Federal Governments fail to invest to support the quality of life in our City.”

“We need less spin and more substance to fix up the roads, link rail lines, improve school facilities and actually provide additional health services rather just a shiny new building.”

Blacktown City Council Mayor Clr Tony Bleasdale said “Council welcomes any moves to fast track much needed infrastructure such as town centres and schools in areas such as Mount Druitt, Marsden Park and Riverstone.”

“Let me make this clear, this is only an amendment to the planning controls, covering zoning and building heights for the Mount Druitt CBD,” Clr Bleasdale said.

“Council has a master plan for the redevelopment of Mount Druitt CBD on the table and this gives us the green light. There are privately-funded shovel ready projects waiting for this amendment.

“While we welcome the Premier’s announcement, we need to point out that road, transport and services infrastructure is vital to properly deliver the transformation of Mount Druitt CBD. “Mount Druitt Hospital is also part of Mount Druitt CBD – the road access that crosses the railway - Francis Road – is long overdue an upgrade.

“In fact, with tens of thousands of new residents, the whole North West Growth Area needs a huge injection of funds for public infrastructure in the form of transport, schools and hospitals” he said.

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tudents across NSW started returning to the classroom this week as the managed approach to schools began.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell thanked students, staff, Principals, teachers and support staff for the way they have conducted themselves during this challenging time.

Ms Berejiklian said this was an important step forward for NSW as it demonstrates our commitment to kick starting our economy again and prioritising community recovery.

“Schools are a crucial part of our response to COVID-19 and I want to thank the students, Principals, teachers and parents for being flexible and responding quickly to delivering education during the pandemic,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I urge parents and carers to follow the advice provided by their schools and encourage them to only send their children on the days they have been allocated.

“This approach means Principals can monitor the return of students and address any issues with their school plans as they prepare to return to more face to face learning.

“Today is the first step towards a full school return, something I hope to see happening very soon if the next couple of weeks go well.”

Schools still remain open for all students who need to attend campus every day and the current model of a single unit of work remains to reduce the burden on teachers.

The majority of high schools have provided additional time for Year 12 and on average HSC students will receive three days allocated classroom time.

Ms Mitchell said she was eager to see students back in the classroom and was focused on returning the education of NSW students to normal as quickly as possible.

“Our Principals, teachers, support staff, parents and carers have gone above and beyond to continue the education of our students while we respond to this pandemic,” Ms Mitchell said.

A massive logistical effort is underway to ensure that schools remained stocked with essentials and cleaned daily.

“Normally schools stock their hygiene supplies, a huge operation is ongoing to centralise that job while supplies remain hard to source,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Initially, we have dispatched more than 10,800 deliveries to schools, including more than 2000 litres of liquid soap, 22,000 bars of soap, and over 42,000 bottles of hand sanitiser.

“In addition, a first aid room care package containing personal protective equipment and a non-contact temperature monitor has been dispatched to every school in NSW. “A rolling program of deliveries is scheduled to continue to meet the needs of schools on an ongoing basis.”

Schools are expected to remain in this current stage for at least two weeks.

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Students start returning to the classroom

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www.knownforlounges.com

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Sky’s the limit above Westmead Health Precinct

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he more than $1 billion Westmead Redevelopment achieved a significant milestone this week when a test helicopter landed on the new Central Acute Services Building (CASB).

Onlookers across Westmead Health Precinct watched the blue sky transition into night as the aircraft carried out multiple tests on Australia’s tallest hospital building.

Westmead Redevelopment Director of Commissioning Sacha Mott said the trials were a critical step in the commissioning process.

“We essentially test the design of the building to ensure it supports helicopter activities and the impact of landing. This ensures crew and hospital staff safety,” Sacha said.

“We inspect every aspect of safety while operating in a live state. This includes checking lights on the helipad are working at the correct wattage and there are no obstacles in the flight path.

Westmead Redevelopment Helipad Accreditation first choppen landing

“It’s such an exciting milestone because when the helicopter lands on the helipad, it means we’re ready for the first patient.”

For more than two years, the helicopter operational planning committee has investigated all aspects of safety, operations, access and integration with health services in the

new hospital building.

“It brings all the pieces of the project together,” Sacha said. “For me, it’s the pinnacle of design, planning and teamwork.”

Even the name required careful consideration.

“There was a comprehensive body of work around what to call the

helideck – the CASB Helideck is now painted on the circle so it’s visible from the air.

“This naming convention had to marry into the existing helipads at Westmead Hospital and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.”

Health Infrastructure Senior Project Director Tim Mason said this was an exciting milestone.

“It’s significant in that completion of the helipad is around the corner,” he said.

“The next step is to begin simulations for patient transfers from the helipad down the destinationcontrolled lifts to where the patient needs to go such as emergency or theatres.”

The Central Acute Services Building is a partnership between the Western Sydney Local Health District, the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network and the University of Sydney.

World-class Western Sydney hospital building finished early

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estern Sydney will soon have more worldclass health services right on their doorstep, with construction now complete on the Westmead Health Precinct’s new Central Acute Services Building.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the new state-of-the-art hospital building, which includes two new emergency departments and more than 300 patient rooms, is the centrepiece of the $1 billion-plus Westmead Redevelopment.

“Major construction has finished three months ahead of schedule, meaning this cutting-edge building will bring additional health services to Western Sydney at a critical time.”

Ms Berejiklian said.

“This redevelopment will help ensure our health system continues to provide high-quality healthcare, research and education facilities for decades to come, as well as ensuring the system can deal with potential surges in COVID-19 cases.”

The NSW Government is actively planning ahead for a range of options to expand physical and resource capacity of health facilities and areas

for self-isolation due to COVID-19.

Due to construction finishing early, the Central Acute Services Building has the capacity to provide hundreds of beds to care for COVID-19 patients, should the need arise.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said that once up and running, the new facility will not only transform healthcare in Western Sydney, but will provide a centre for groundbreaking health research to benefit every Australian.

“Our health experts will be working alongside top medical and scientific researchers in this new 14-storey hub, which embeds staff from The University of Sydney, and includes research, education and training facilities,” Mr Hazzard said.

Once fully operational, key features of the new building will include: • Two new emergency departments — one for adults and one for children; • Digital operating theatres; • Expanded imaging, pharmacy and logistics; • More than 300 patient rooms (a high proportion of single rooms with dedicated carer zones); • More spaces with natural light;

• Landscaped entry plaza and forecourt; • Education, training and research facilities on every floor; • 1.5 floors for the University of Sydney to enable greater integration of education, research and health services delivery.

The Central Acute Services Building is a collaboration between Westmead Hospital, The Children’s

Hospital at Westmead, the University of Sydney and Health Infrastructure.

In the coming months, work will be carried out to complete equipment installation and other preparations for the opening and staged move of services and staff.

The NSW Government has also committed an additional $619 million for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Stage 2.

Woman critical after house fire – Marayong At the time of printing, a woman remains in a critical condition after being injured when her house caught fire last week.

Emergency services were called to Amos Place at Marayong about 12.30am on Wednesday 6 May, and found the single-storey house wellalight.

Two women, aged 34 and 64, were able to leave the home unassisted; however, police have been told the younger woman went back into the building looking for her dog.

She suffered burns to her face, arm and airway. She was treated at the scene before being taken to Westmead Hospital and has now been transferred

to Concord Hospital’s Burns Unit where her condition is described as critical but stable.

The older woman escaped with relatively minor injuries; the dog was found safe and is being looked after by neighbours.

Fire & Rescue NSW firefighters extinguished the blaze, but the house

has sustained significant structural damage.

A crime scene remains in place and will be examined when the area is deemed safe.

Early investigations suggest the fire is not suspicious and began in the lounge room.

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pecialised nurses are hitting the streets to help vulnerable community members receive a free COVID-19 screening and flu vaccination.

In a Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) first, nurses are visiting services in the community that support rough sleepers and those living in crisis or temporary accommodation.

WSLHD High Street Youth Health Service clinical nurse specialist Nina Livingstone said more than 160 people in the community have already received their flu shot.

“Our goal is to reach as many vulnerable members of the community and to provide healthcare services to those who otherwise may not be reached,” Nina said.

“The clinics have been really well received. Understandably, some people are a little uneasy around needles so we try to make the experience as painless as possible.”

The teams are also increasing health literacy in the community by dispelling myths around the flu vaccine and highlighting the importance of practicing good hygiene.

The COVID-19 street fighters! Brenda, Nina (front), Jessica, Melissa and Melanie at Holroyd Community Centre yesterday.

“The flu vaccine is safe and cannot give you the flu. It’s the best protection against the flu and I encourage everyone to get vaccinated,” Nina said.

Young people aged 12-24 living in the WSLHD can call the Youth Health service to book an appointment to receive their free flu vaccine:

Anthony Bose gets his flu shot from WSLHD clinical nurse specialist Melissa Broadbent

High Street Youth Health Service, Harris Park: 8860 2500 Western Area Adolescent Team, Mount Druitt: 9881 1230 Nurse-led outreach clinics to screen for COVID-19 and provide flu vaccinations will be at the Holroyd Centre Merrylands on 12 May and Meals Plus Parramatta on 13 May

from 9.30am – 12.30pm on both days.

For further information contact Nina Livingstone on 8860 2500 or email Nina.Livingstone@health.nsw. gov.au Community services interested in hosting an outreach clinic are also encouraged to contact Nina.

WSLHD clinical nurse specialist Melanie Wilson sets up for the day.

Two teens charged for allegedly spitting Two teenagers have been charged after allegedly spitting and assaulting train staff at Blacktown Railway Station last month.

About 1pm on Thursday 23rd April, a teenage girl attempted to enter Blacktown Railway Station, when she was stopped and spoken to by a Sydney Trains employee about smoking at the station.

It’s alleged the girl yelled and spat

at the employee, a 56-year-old man, before a teenage boy, who was known to the girl, ran over and coughed and spat in his face.

Another Sydney Trains employee, a 53-year-old woman, intervened and was allegedly punched in the head.

A third employee and security also assisted; however, the youths ran from the scene.

Officers from Police Transport Command were notified and commenced an investigation.

Following inquiries, officers arrested a 17-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy at a home in Pendle Hill about 11.30am.

They were taken to Parramatta Police Station where the girl was charged with smoke in or on public passenger vehicle, train, public area

and not comply noticed direction re spitting//coughing – COVID-19.

The boy was charged with two counts of common assault and not comply noticed direction re spitting// coughing – COVID-19.

They were both granted strict conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on Tuesday 14 July 2020.

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Nursing street-fighters shield community from COVID-19 and flu

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

A maze in Fez Gate to the medina

Across the rooftops

By BEN CRANNEY

‘Mister, mister...closed’. The little kid, maybe 8 years old, yelled at me from across the square. He was hoping to convince me to follow him to a shop, where he’d get a commission from any sales.

‘What’s closed?’ I’d ask. ‘Where ever you go.’ I smiled. It didn’t matter where I was going, it would have been closed. I named my hotel, and walked off with purpose, not knowing if it was the right direction. But he was a master, and called after me, putting enough doubt in my mind to make me slow down.

I was in the Medina of Fez, Morocco, just wandering the ancient alleys that google hasn’t managed to map, but are known well by the

local kids. It’s an intense place, and sometimes paying a kid half a dollar to take you somewhere is a good investment, because you could walk for kilometers without going anywhere. We even needed a guide to get to our hotel.

There’s a clearer view of the city from the roof tops, which was actually my favourite view. In a city full of intricate and beautiful Islamic architecture, that’s a big claim, but there’s a peacefulness up there away from the crowds, with uninterrupted views of minarets and airing carpets.

Having said that, I’m confident that the insides of the Mosques would have topped it, both in terms of peacefulness and beauty, but they are only for the devout, and only at prayer time. There are other buildings to

Working the leather

visit that offer some respite from the alleyways, and are fine examples of the city’s architecture. The Nejjarine Museum, a restored inn for travelling merchants, is a favourite.

One of the big attractions in Fez are the tanneries, the places where leather is cured and coloured. I visited Chaouwara, the largest one in the city.

To see it, you’ll need to brave a leather shop. I say brave, because not only are the proprietors master salesfolk, but you’ll be tempted to buy it all. Lonely Planet reports that number 10 has the best views of the tannery, and they are

Murder mystery M

kind of right. Since they published that advice, almost every door has a ‘10’ above it. You can’t see the tannery from the street, (although you can smell them) so it’s near impossible to guess which will have the best view, so I just chose one because a guy on the street said his uncle worked there.

The tannery is for workers, and tourists are only meant to look from the terraces, so you can’t get up close to the pots of dye. But find the right enterprising kid, and for a couple of dollars, they might just be able to sneak you in.

By Tiffany Pascoe

Alone in the End Series 1, Episode 3

itch walked from the cold into the warmth and busy hum of the bistro.

Exquisite aromas were permeating from the kitchen, holding the promise of an excellent meal.

He was greeted by several people on his way to the bar where he ordered a house Shiraz before settling himself at a table close to the kitchen.

The waitress came over to take his order. “Hey Mitch, what would you like this evening?”

“Hi Sally” Mitch replied with a smile. “How about a rare steak and the mushroom risotto with truffles?”

Sally said “A very good choice” as she filled his water glass with sparkling water.

Mitch pulled out his phone and looked at the email that he received a day or two before. He was just about to respond, when the chef approached his table and quickly sat down. Mitch looked at his troubled expression.

“What’s up Bill?” Bill’s usual confidence, which often bordered on arrogance, was nowhere to be seen.

“We’ve run out of truffles Mitch”

Mitch looked at Bill and asked, “Why feature them on your blackboard menu?” Bill shifted uncomfortably in his chair. “What’s going on Bill?”

Mitch asked in a calm voice. Bill said, “Come and I’ll show you”.

Mitch followed him into the kitchen and Bill barked an order to Brady, a surly young chef, before heaving the cool room door open, revealing very neat and organised produce. He closed the heavy door and reached for a large sealed container and opened it. The distinctive smell of truffle wafted from the container, but only scrunched up paper towel remained.

“I only just noticed when I was about to plate up a serving of risotto”.

Mitch asked, “How much truffle did you have?” “About 300 grams” replied Bill.

“I’m guessing the reason you haven’t reported this to the police is because they weren’t procured in the most legitimate way mate?”

Bill nodded, “It hasn’t been the best truffle season this year and as you know I’m hoping to keep my “hat”, as in the culinary award, and it’s such a

magnificent ingredient so I was”. Bill broke off and looked at Mitch “God, I’m not going to get into trouble, am I? “I mean, this is such a cutthroat business Mitch, every bit of detail counts.

The normally fiery and brazen chef suddenly looked very small and set to cry. “To make things worse, I was always in competition with that bitch Cecilia Butler. I’m not sorry she’s

dead. She did all she could to make my life hell. She got her sycophants to write scathing online reviews and used her influence to get the health inspectors to visit more regularly than usual.” Mitch thought about the impeccably clean kitchen that he had just walked through and thought that would have been a waste of the inspector’s time.

He said. “Do you have security camera footage?” Bill shook his head.

Mitch, said, “You’re going to wish you did”. “Do you know what they found stuffed down Cecelia’s throat?”

Bill suddenly looked very pale in the florescent lighting.

Mitch opened the door and looked over at the scowling chef who was plating up a perfectly cooked steak and risotto. “Is that rare? You going to put truffle on that?” The chef glared at Mitch and muttered something inaudible as Mitch took the plate and walked out of the kitchen.

The following morning Mitch woke to the news that Bill had been arrested for the murder of Cecilia Butler.

To be continued.

Western News

local news

W

estmead’s Central Acute Services Building (CASB) moved into the spotlight again this week when it achieved its latest milestone – the blackstart.

The main power supply to the building was shut off to test the generators and ensure all services function as intended.

Westmead Redevelopment’s Service Commissioning Lead Matt Tadorian said the testing marked an important step in the commissioning process.

“We need to make sure the building can maintain all critical functions in the event of a disaster,” he said.

“This could be a power outage, fire, flood or a storm. We have contingency plans in place to ensure a consistent flow in power at all times.

“During a blackstart, we test everything from power, airconditioning, medical gases, lighting, sprinkler systems, to ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) networks, computers and security access.”

Health Infrastructure’s Project Director Anna Chernih led the charge in for testing the major medical equipment.

“We simulated a power outage and tested CT and MRI scanning in the new adult’s and children’s Emergency Departments,” she said.

“We were able to continue scanning patients without any delays.

“It’s vital these critical elements are tested to ensure patient safety when the building opens.

“If a CT scanner loses power it can take over 30 minutes to reboot and our critical patients can’t wait that long.”

The Central Acute Services Building is a partnership between the Western Sydney Local Health District, the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network and the University of Sydney.

This week the NSW Premier announced that major construction on the project completed three months ahead of schedule.

CT scan in the Adult’s Emergency Department on level 1 of the new Central Acute Services Building

Stockland Elara has launched a virtual activity series for the community during isolation

S

tockland Elara has launched a new virtual activity series to keep local residents of all ages engaged, connected and active during this unprecedented period of time.

Local residents have weekly access to a variety of activities, from self defence classes, to cooking to gardening, that will keep the whole family entertained and learning new skills from home throughout this isolation period.

The schedule includes: • Mondays 3pm-3:30pm: Kids Craft, with Kozi & Pinky Entertainers • Tuesdays 4pm-4:40pm: Kids Self Defence Classes, run by Southside Academy of Combat • Wednesdays 10am-10:20am: Kids Storytime Sessions • Fridays 1pm-1:30pm: Kids Fitness Sessions, run by Billy Slater’s award-winning, Billy’s Buddies program • Saturdays 4pm-4:30pm: Cooking Classes with The Cooks Kitchen • 3rd Saturday of each month 9am-9:40am: Gardening Sessions, hosted by Leafscape Designs For residents wishing to join in on the fun, they must register online via Eventbrite (see links above) and a Zoom link will be sent on the morning of the session to the registered email.

Residents can also keep up to date and find the links for the weekly events on Stockland Elara’s Facebook event page, www.facebook.com/pg/ elaracommunitymarsdenpark/events/

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

Lights, equipment, action at our new hospital building

11

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

12

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

A Railway Man

Penrith and southerly to Camden. From the Nepean River to Tahmoor the formation was chiefly Wianamatta shale. His report on the district the whole way was highly adapted ohn James Jamieson was born in for settlement especially mixed farming, fruit Parramatta in 1857, the son of Eleanor growing and dairying. At Greendale on the and George Jamieson. George was one Nepean River where the line would pass there of the engineers sent out by the Imperial was 8,000 acres of excellent land with a good Government to carry out surveys in Australia. percentage of river flats that could be cut up John was educated at Newington College and for closer settlement and other large holdings joined the railway in 1877 as a draftsman, could be similarly cut up. Regarding timber later working for the Department of Public he reported that there was ironbark, spotted  The 3102-steam locomotive used on the Parramatta Works in their Railway and Tramway gum, box, stringybark for milling and fuel to Sydney line in the 1920’s.

Construction Branch and later appointed to that could be obtained at various points along the survey staff where he located many lines the route. A good ballast quarry of basalt could begin at Luddenham in all parts of the State. John married Alison Hamilton at Cootamundra and sand available at the Nepean River with the line forming a junction in 1884 and one hundred years ago in 1920, now a Supervising Surveyor from the Western system to the Southern that would create a saving John was asked to undertake an exploration of a route proposed for a of 14 miles of haulage. John reported that before he recommended the railway from Rooty Hill station through to Tahmoor near Thirlmere that route, he extensively examined a proposal via Silverdale-Wallacia to would open up forty-three miles of railway for settlement. This scheme Luddenham. From Silverdale to the crossing of the Nepean River at was received favourably everywhere because it would be the means Greendale, it would entail very heavy work and increased grades and of opening up a vast area of good land for closer settlement and larger curves, and the crossing of the Nepean River from Greendale to Wallacia production, but also because of the national importance in linking up and onto Luddenham, the increase in length needed to be constructed the southern and western systems and they hoped the northern with the would be considerable. Also, with this line Wallacia would only be four western lines. John’s exploration of this undertaking was the line would miles distant and a good road could be easily made between the two leave the existing line just short of Rooty Hill station to the west, then points of Wallacia and Luddenham. The final summary was this would going south-westerly where it would pass close to Erskine Park Public divide the country between the Nepean, Warragamba and Wollondilly School and cross South Creek near the junction of Cosgrove Creek Rivers and the southern railway and its construction would develop a and follow the Creek valley where it crossed the Northern Road east good district that had long laid dormant and bring a large area of country of Luddenham Public School. The line would then run fairly direct to a profitable use. To obtain a true estimate of cost, John recommended to the Nepean River at the Vermont Estate land. This land of 1,750 a careful trial survey. Reports from the Railway Commissioners on acres on the Nepean River was granted to William Charles Wentworth this proposed railway line in May four years later was presented to (1719-1872) who developed it into his Vermont estate. After crossing the Public Works Committee. The report concluded that the most that the Nepean River at what was known as Flaggy Creek Crossing at the could be said of the proposal was that the working expenses might Oaks, the line would ascend the ridge between Eagle Creek and the be realised, leaving the interest charge of £29,002 unprovided for.

Nepean River and crossing the road near the Creek following on the The Commissioners believed “consideration of the matter might well east side, crossing the Oaks-Wallacia road close to the Orangeville be deferred until after the construction of the North Shore Bridge”. church near Camden then the line would follow up the valley to the Earlier in 1914, Mr J Bradfield who was the Chief Engineer for the parish of Werombi where it crosses the ridge at Low Gap. From there Metropolitan Railway Construction toured the world for the purpose the line would descend to Werombi Creek on east side passing through of observing the most up to date developments in connection with the the Oaks village where the creek would then be followed and crossing design, construction and the working of underground railways and the dividing ridge and main road in Low Gap at Barrington Tops, the bridges. On his return, he presented a report to the Government of his parish of Burragorang. Then the head of Stone Quarry Creek at Picton design for a Sydney Harbour rail and road bridge which would totally would be crossed and the line would be fairly direct to the northern end abandon the Rooty Hill to Tahmoor line to history. John remained at the of Thirlmere railway station and from there the line would then leave Railway and Tramway Construction Branch until his retirement in 1926 the southern end of the station and turn to the left where it would follow after 49 years of service. He died in January 1930 aged 73 years at his Myrtle Creek, then to the right it would junction with the existing line residence in Railway Street at Petersham and his funeral took place at at Tahmoor station. John estimated the length of line to be around 43 St John’s Church of England at Parramatta where he was laid to rest in miles, constructed from Rooty Hill to Tahmoor. He reported that the the Cemetery. The employees of the Railway Construction Branch were Nepean River was the only stream of importance to be crossed where well represented. His wife Alison died in 1941 at the age of 83 years and there was a good horizontal bed of sandstone rock with high banks on is buried with John. both sides. The character of the country from Rooty Hill to Luddenham was generally Wianamatta shale, interspersed with bands of ironstone.

Sources: Trove, BD&M online, NSW Parliament online, Daily At Luddenham, an outcrop of basalt from there to the Nepean River was Telegraph, Sydney Morning Herald, Sydney Sun, Sydney Mail. mostly Wianamatta shale with alluvial flats that extended northerly to

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

J

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

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

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medium

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Dolphin (8) 5 Slaps (6) 9 Shot up abruptly (8) 10 Capital of Canada (6) 12 Scavenging (9) 13 Barf (5) 14 Shadow (archaic) (4) 16 Purposes (7) 19 Romantic (7) 21 Passport (4) 24 Coops (5) 25 Global (9) 27 Not senior (6) 28 Marrow squash plant (8) 29 Messy (6) 30 Insincere praise (8)

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favourite (8) 20 Seeded (4) 21 Realistic (7) 22 Manly (6) 23 Prove true or correct (6) 26 An old gold coin (5)

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

SUDOKU: EASY

13

REAL ESTATE

Western News

If Your Mortgage Rate Doesn’t Start With a 3, You’re Overpaying Alex Soncini

A

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Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

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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.

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

S

tarting today and in following issues, we will be profiling some of the Blacktown District’s finest male and female golfers, from juniors to veterans, covering their career highlights, choice of club manufacturer and fondest memory on the golf course.

Our first two players are both from Dunheved GC but have remarkably different origins in the sport.

Men’s Club Champion Craig Williams took up Golf at the relatively mature age of 34 but quickly mastered it’s intricacies, recently winning the Stonecutters Cup before the onset of Covid-19 halted major tournaments.

Veteran Club Champion Robert Delaney began his journey in Golf as a junior and has now been playing for in excess of 50 years, enjoying a very successful career along the way.

Craig Williams Age: 49 Started Playing Golf: 2005 (34 years old) Starting Handicap: 16 Current Handicap: +2 Major Achievements: Dunheved GC Club Champion 2019, Medal of Medals winner in 3 consecutive years (2016, 2017, 2018), equalled course record in Foursomes at Dunheved GC in 2018, Winner of Mixed Foursomes in 4 consecutive years (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019), only player to win both Club Championship and Mixed Foursomes Championship in history at Dunheved GC, played Major Pennants in 2017 and recorded 5 consecutive birdies in a round at Terry Hills GC, Winner of Stonecutters Cup 2020 (Stonecutters Ridge GC).

What’s in the Bag: D2 Titleist Driver, Srixon 2 Hybrid, Srixon Irons 3-9, Srixon Wedges 56° and 60°, Oddessy Putter, Titleist ProVX 1 Ball, Footjoy Shoes, Footjoy Glove, Callaway Taylor personalised Bag. Favourite Club: Srixon 2 Hybrid

Robert Delaney Age: 71 I have been playing competition golf for 56 years. Clubs in chronological order are Barnwell Park, North Ryde, Ryde Parramatta, Toukley, Tamworth and Dunheved (8.5 years) Starting Handicap: 16.

Current Handicap: 8.3 Major Achievements: Played Junior Pennants & Eric Apperly Shield for North Ryde GC. Dundeved GC B Grade Match Play Champion 2014, B Grade Stroke Champion 2017, Medal of Medals winner 2019, Masters Pennant 2019 5 wins - 0 losses, Dunheved GC Veterans Club Champion 2019.

What’s in the Bag: Driver - Taylormade M1 9.5°, 3-wood - Taylormade M3, Hybrids - Taylormade RBZ 3 19° and RBZ 4 22°, Irons - Steel Shaft Cleveland Black Ti face 4 to PW, Wedges - Titleist steel shafts Gap 50° F grind, Sand 56° M grind, Putter - Align Bronze’ purchased second hand around 1985, Shoes Footjoy Dryjoys Tour, Glove - Footjoy FLX. Favourite Club: Putter Biggest highlight of career: Hole in one at Tamworth GC Easter Sunday 12/4/2009 12th hole, followed by a hole in one at Tamworth Easter Sunday 11/4/2010 12th hole.

Career Hole-in-Ones: 4

Western News 15 May 2020 Issue 109

Local golf’s high achievers

15

Western News Friday, 15 May 2020

SPORT

Tennis is back!

B

lacktown City Council has reopened the courts at the Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope in the wake of easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Council has sought the advice of the Australian and NSW government health authorities, as well as Tennis NSW, in coming to the decision to allow a limited resumption of play at the Tennis Centre.

“Strict social distancing rules will be strictly applied to ensure that the safety and welfare of players and staff is maintained with a maximum of two people allowed on the court at any one time and bookings must be made online.

“Tennis is one of the few sporting activities that can still be played within the current COVID-19 restrictions.

“The Tennis Centre will be the first of Council’s sporting facilities to re-

Photo taken before COVID-19 restrictions

open. We hope this starts the journey over the coming months of the resumption of fitness, recreation and sporting activities.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The tennis courts at Stanhope will

be open 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, players must bring their own rackets and balls and bookings and payments can only be made on-line at: www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/btcs For further information visit our

website at www.blacktown.nsw.gov. au/btcs Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope Corner Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768, Phone: (02) 9421 2600.