Western News 16 October 2020

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Friday, 16 October 2020

ISSUE 120

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Storm Ready NSW SES has 9,500 volunteers who partner with their communities prior to and during emergencies.

SES are preparing the community for summer see page 2 full story. Photo: Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

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Ses prepares the community for storm season

By Noel Rowsell

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SW Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott and NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York held a Media Conference at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium on Friday 25th September, launching the ‘Get Ready for Storm Season’ to the community.

Minister Elliott said “In the past few months, there has been widespread flooding in NSW, especially in communities along the South Coast.”

Unfortunately, some people are not heeding the warnings of NSW SES and are risking their lives by driving through floodwaters.”

“In fact, over the last 8 months alone, NSW SES has received 500 flood rescue requests from people who have done exactly that.”

“You wouldn’t run into a bushfire, so we are asking the community to help NSW SES volunteers by never driving, walking or riding through floodwater - it is dangerous,” said Minister Elliott.

Commissioner York said “While storm season usually falls between October to March each year, severe weather can happen at any time and people should always be prepared.”

“Our dedicated NSW SES volunteers selflessly give up their own time to protect their communities during floods and storms.”

“It is important to know your flood risk and have an emergency plan in place for what you will do in the event of a flood,” said Commissioner York.

“Don’t be scared, be prepared.”

Group shot of attendees at the Media Launch.

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York

The NSW Government has introduced a number of new safety initiatives, changing the way large scale evacuations in NSW are carried out to protect the health and lives of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks will be used as appropriate at Evacuation Centres, with screening for symptoms in place when required. The Government also encourages evacuees to stay with family or friends where possible to prevent over-crowding.

NSW SES has 9,500 volunteers who partner with their communities prior to and during emergencies. For more storm safety tips and how communities can prepare for storm and flood events, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au

A rescue from a sunken car.

A rescue of a person washed into water. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

William Lawson Park’s new playground opens in time for Daylight Savings

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lacktown City’s young – and young in spirit – can now enjoy an upgraded playground at William Lawson Park in Prospect.

The $122,000 refurbishment was funded through Blacktown City Council’s Work Improvement Program for 2019/20.

Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP, also secured $20,000 funding towards a picnic shelter from the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “The opening of this new playground at William Lawson Park is a wonderful new area for families to take advantage of the warmer weather and longer daylight hours.”

“I know it has been hard for many of Blacktown City’s residents to stay fit and healthy during this difficult time, and for families with young children, it’s been even more of a challenge.

“I’d like to encourage locals and visitors to our great City alike to visit one of the nearly 800 parks and reserves across Blacktown City.

Enjoying the new playground (left to right); Maddison Porter and Ava Wildsmith with (at rear) Councillor Susai Benjamin, Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Councillor Kathie Collins OAM, and Michelle Rowland MP

“This exciting, purpose-built playground at William Lawson Park is just one example of Council’s commitment to providing the best possible recreation facilities

for our residents” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The new play space, located on Myrtle Street in Prospect, now features 2 multi-play units with

a variety of climbing and sliding elements, a junior and senior swing, a multi-person rope swing, an inclusive double carousel spinner, and a rocker.

The new picnic shelter, situated next to the playground, provides shade and picnic facilities to those using the equipment as well as the many sporting clubs and teams that use William Lawson Park.

Michelle Rowland MP said: “The $20,000 in federal funding I secured for these upgrades will greatly improve the liveability of our local area”.

“Thank you to the many local families who brought the state of the former facilities to my attention.

“Ensuring local children can have access to first-class, safe play equipment is key to encouraging healthy lifestyles.”

Council conducted community engagement in November 2019, including consultation with Prospect Little Athletics, Prospect United Netball Club, Prospect United Soccer Club, and William Lawson Park Committee.

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he lives of two young boys has once again been celebrated in the park in Blacktown City that was named in their honour.

Robert and Daniel Kruse were aged just 4 and 10 when their lives were cut short when an unlicensed driver lost control of the car he was driving and crashed into the two boys in Tregear in March 1990.

Blacktown City Council worked with the boys’ family in naming the reserve at the site of the tragic incident ‘Kruse Park’ as a tribute to the brothers.

A memorial garden, which features a plaque dedicated to Robert and Daniel, was also established and this week a rebuilt playground was opened in the park.

Robert is remembered by his family as being a cheeky, mischievous, and funny boy who loved to spend time with his dad, loved Thomas the Tank Engine and the song ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’.

His brother Daniel is remembered as being a kind, friendly, and gentle boy who always helped people if he could, who loved riding motor bikes and fishing.

“Having this memorial garden for the boys is a reminder that drink driving, speeding and distraction is an issue. It is also a memory of two beautiful children who were taken from

(L-R) Michelle Kruse, Ed Husic MP, Federal Member for Chifley, Blacktown City Councillor Brad Bunting (back), Aline Kruse (front), and Melanie Knott, with the Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM.

us,” a statement on behalf of the Kruse family said.

“Having the park is acknowledgement that they were lost here and a reminder to the community to drive safely and keep children safe on the roads.”

The $122,000 upgrade was funded through Blacktown City Council’s Works Improvement Program, with funding also coming from the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme, secured by the Member for Chifley Ed Husic MP. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, recently visited Kruse Park to enjoy the new facilities.

Mayor Bleasdale met with the boys’ mother Aline Kruse, their sisters Michelle Kruse and Melanie Knott, and

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aunt Sheena Smith, accompanied by Ed Husic and Councillor Brad Bunting.

“I pay tribute to the memory of Robert and Daniel, two beautiful brothers who were taken from their family far too soon,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Kruse Park stands as a testament to these young boys, who will live on in the hearts of their family, friends, and the Blacktown City community. We will not forget them.

“I am grateful to the Kruse family for their input to this project, which the whole community can now take great pleasure in,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The statement from the Kruse family said the park had been updated with a vision to bring families and the local

community together.

“The new equipment allows parents with children of different ages to enjoy the park together,” the family said.

“It also allows the bigger kids to come and throw a football or soccer ball around on the grass area.

“This will encourage family time, it will encourage children to be active, and also encourage social time for parents and encourage kids locally to socialise in a positive way.”

Ed Husic MP said: “The upgrade of Kruse Park is a fitting tribute to the memory of Robert and Daniel Kruse – which is why I was proud to partner with the Kruse family and Blacktown Council on this project.”

“As a dad myself, I know how important these play areas are to young families and their children with this project creating a renewed sense of community in Tregear.”

Located along Erebus Crescent in Tregear, the new Kruse Park play space includes multiple swings, a giant tunnel, a multiplay unit with a slide, and a spinner.

There are new pathways and seating with trees planted to provide shading around the playground.

The refurbishment is part of Council’s current $448,000 program of playground upgrades across Blacktown City.

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Memory of young boys honoured in playground upgrade

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Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

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From the Editor’s Desk

By BART BASSETT

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estConnex, NorthConnex. Sydney Metro Northwest and Badgerys Creek Airport with the upgraded roads to support the airport are all essential projects which should have been built decades back and I congratulate the Government on building them. However, too many traffic congestion pinch points and other infrastructure projects are being ignored.

Let’s start with the Old Windsor Rd corridor from Windsor Road Northmead to Sunnyholt Rd Parklea - a major arterial road many of our readers use on a daily basis.

That section of road is regularly congested throughout the entire day, not just in peak hour, but I have not read or heard one comment from MPs in that area on their plans or timetable to fix it.

Then there is the all day congestion on the Prospect Highway at Prospect between Blacktown Road and M4, as well as all day congestion on Reservoir Rd between the M4 and Great Western Highway. Both of these pinch points are severely impacting on productivity as both of these roads lead to and from major road links connecting industrial areas like Pemulwuy and Huntingwood. I am pleased that funding for the Prospect Highway was announced in the recent Federal Budget and improvements are occurring on Reservoir Road.

Then there is the on again off again solution to the Garfield Road Riverstone level crossing. Congestion at this location is horrendous and required rectification years ago to support the massive increase in population that has already occurred in Northwest Sydney. Who thinks a level crossing from last century on a major connecting road is acceptable in a key growth area of Sydney? In addition, the connection from the existing Metro Northwest to the Richmond Line and onto the western line at St Marys should be a priority to create jobs out of Covid and connect us all to the new airport at Badgerys Creek.

Government policy is about creating jobs in Western Sydney to support residential growth and reduce the great distances people are having to travel to work but to achieve that goal, business must know they can operate efficiently if they relocate to Western Sydney to create those jobs. The current situation means the first time a decision maker from a company drives to these employment hubs to inspect opportunities, they will be immediately put off by the congestion and obvious problems with no timetable for upgrade.

Come on, it is time Transport for NSW and The Government acknowledged these pinch points and infrastructure project delays are hindering job creation as well as productivity and announce a timetable for improvement.

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Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Community wins: Prospect highway upgrade

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hree years after the Federal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP, called for it, the Federal Government is finally committing funding for the Prospect Highway upgrade.

The Federal Budget earmarks $120 million in Federal funding to support the project.

This announcement comes off the back of a coordinated community campaign to fix the Prospect Highway. Thousands of local residents participated in the campaign, by raising their concerns with local Members of Parliament and Councillors, contacting local media and signing countless petitions.

“This victory is a testament to people power”, Ms Rowland said.

“We would not have been able to achieve this concession without the ongoing advocacy of local residents.

We have been facing an infrastructure deficit for many years and it’s high time the Government got on with the job of addressing it”.

Ms Rowland has committed to scrutinising the announcement to ensure the funding is delivered quickly and efficiently.

“Anyone who drives along the

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Prospect Highway during peak hour will tell you this is overdue”, Ms Rowland said.

“We need this upgrade now – it is far too important to be placed on the back-burner”.

Ms Rowland has previously criticised both the State and Federal Governments for their failure to meet local infrastructure commitment, including the construction of commuter car parking at Schofields Station and the twice promised and yet to be delivered Rouse Hill Hospital.

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Community nursing is Andrea’s pride and joy

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ndrea Broughton’s pride shines through when she speaks about her role in community nursing.

Working as a chronic and complex community nurse, Andrea visits people in their homes to dress complex wounds, deal with continence issues and provide ongoing support for people with chronic diseases such as serious respiratory illnesses.

Andrea spends at least five hours a day in her car travelling to Whalan, Tregear and Emerton to provide care to her patients, many of whom are house bound.

“Treating patients at their homes is the alternative to treating patients in a hospital outpatient clinic,” Andrea said.

“Community nursing is very different to working in a hospital and it’s a specialised role.

“I spend more time speaking with families in their homes and get a better understanding of their health needs.

“I love meeting people. That’s why I chose to work in community nursing. I become part of the community.”

The graduate nurse completed her Bachelor of Nursing degree from Western Sydney University in

Mount Druitt Community Health Centre chronic and complex community nurse Andrea Broughton.

April this year and works with a close-knit team of nurses at Mount Druitt Community Health Centre, who all pitch in and help each other.

“Community nursing takes a special person who can manage their time well,” Andrea said.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is this week commemorating the role of community nurses, their importance and dedication during

Nursing in the Community Week from 14-20 September.

These highly-skilled professionals provide a range of services including Child and Family and Chronic and Complex services to clients, carers and families to improve their health either at home, a community health centre or other community setting.

For anyone wanting to access community nursing through Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Community Health Centre’s, please follow the below instructions. A GP or hospital referral is not required and eligibility applies: To refer people aged under 65 years: Please forward all referrals to the Integrated & Community Health Central Referral Service on 1800 600 681.

To refer people aged over 65 years: Please forward all referrals to the Commonwealth ‘My Aged Care’ service online at www.myagedcare. gov.au/referral or via telephone on 1800 200 422.

To find your nearest WSLHD Community Health Services, click here.

To view available jobs for Western Sydney Local Health District, click here.

Students learn online healthy lifestyle program

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Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) program which motivates high school students to increase their physical activity and improve their diet has gone digital by providing online training.

COVID-19 has restricted the usual face-to-face workshops held in school classrooms so they developed an online module instead.

The Students As Lifestyle Activists (SALSA) program is peer-led and educates students on better food choices, the importance of physical activity and how to lead a healthier lifestyle.

WSLHD Primary Health Care Education and Research Unit (PERU) director Associate Professor Smita Shah said the peer leaders and students have been upskilled to use this new technology required to run these online

Students from Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School.

module training sessions.

“The SALSA online training was trialled at Chifley College Mount Druitt campus and Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School through the Department of Education using MS Teams and Google Classroom,” Smita said.

Chifley College Mount Druitt

campus Year 10 student Romany Robertson participated in a ZOOM online SALSA workshop with his classmates and enjoyed it.

“The information we learned was practical and easy to adapt in our own day-to-day lives,” Romany said.

“The sessions was presented in an engaging and enjoyable manner and I

look forward to sharing this information with the year eight students.”

20 students from both schools undertook five hours of structured learning and were able to achieve all of the learning outcomes.

“I’d like to acknowledge the support and assistance from the Prevention Education Research Unit (PERU) and the NSW Education Department who helped make this possible,” Smita said.

“Promoting student empowerment and leadership continues to be key as we transition to online delivery.”

The SALSA project is a partnership between Western Sydney Local Health District, Mt Druitt, Blacktown and Hills Medical Practitioners Associations, High Schools, Western Sydney Primary Health Network and the University of Sydney.

For further information about the SALSA program, click here.

Major milestone reached for new Rouse Farm Primary School The Rouse Hill - Tallawong area is one step closer to a brand new public school following the lodgment of Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) application request.

This is a key planning milestone on the path to delivering the new school.

The project will deliver modern, flexible learning spaces, along with a range of new and upgraded core facilities and additional capacity for out of school hours care (OSHC).

The site for the new primary school, with the working title of “Rouse Farm”, was acquired earlier this year and planning for the project is underway.

Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly welcomed the news and

said that it was reassuring to know the longer-term need for outstanding local schools is being met.

“I look forward to seeing the progress for this primary school and pleased the planning process is already well underway,” Mr Conolly said.

Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said she was proud of the work the NSW Government was doing as part of the largest-ever investment in its public schools.

“I’m thrilled that we’ve reached this milestone for a new primary school near Tallawong metro station which will deliver the high-quality school resources students need to succeed,” Ms Mitchell said.

The NSW Government is investing

$6.7 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 190 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. In addition, a record $1.3 billion is being spent on school maintenance over five years,

along with a record $500 million for the sustainable Cooler Classrooms program to provide air conditioning to schools. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

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omes and businesses across Blacktown City are about to be lit up.

Nominations have now opened for this year’s Blacktown City’s Diwali Lights Competition.

The ancient Hindu festival of Diwali celebrates the victory of light over darkness, with observers around the world lighting lamps and candles in and around homes and temples.

These lights are said to help the goddess Lakshmi - goddess of wealth - find her way to homes and businesses.

Blacktown City’s annual Diwali Lights Competition invites residents to celebrate their culture by decorating their homes.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “This is a wonderful cultural event that lights up our streets and homes across the City.

“Blacktown City is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Australia and is home to more than 83,000 people of Indian descent.

“In addition to prizes for the best individual properties, we have a special category where we recognise the City’s ‘Best Street’. The title acknowledges neighbours who come

The Sadhu family’s home in Bungarribee, last year’s winner.

together in the spirit of Diwali to create a festive and culture-filled atmosphere in the street they each call home.”

To be eligible for the title of Best Street, you must have a minimum of 3 decorated properties entered in the same street. $2500 in cash prizes is available for

the best decorated properties across Blacktown City’s 5 Wards.

Preliminary judging and photographing of entries will take place from Monday 9 November to Thursday 12 November with the final round of judging taking place on Sunday 15 November.

The competition is organised

by Blacktown City Council in association with Indian Link Media Group to celebrate the annual Diwali Festival.

For more information and entry details go to: https://www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au/Community/Awardsscholarships-and-competitions/ Diwali-Lights-Competition

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Contest shines light on Diwali H

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

Marvellous Medellin

Part of Paloma’s quest

Lights in the park

By BEN CRANNEY

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edellín, Colombia, where a drink at the nightclub costs the same as a bed in a hostel.

I’m sure there were cheaper places, but we were being shown around by a mate of a mate, and he was keen to show us the fanciest of the city. We visited just after Christmas, and there was a lot of energy on the streets.

It felt like the city’s entire 3 million people were out and about enjoying Los Alumbrados, a giant light-filled Christmas display built from over 30 million lights and 800 kilometers of lighting rope. That year, it told the story of Paloma, a modern tale of a young girl whose travels down the Medellin River stopping at different ports to

learn about different human values.

Even without fully understanding the back story, just seeing the giant, multicoloured ships, fish, plants and buildings built out of light was special.

A 90 minute drive through the Colombian mountains took us to another (partially) human made display.

The Rock, a seemingly random giant stone sitting on the edge of a human made lake provides exceptional views of the flooded mountains and valleys.

If Paloma made the trip out here, she would have seen the human value of curiosity in action, as 100s of people climbed to the top of the rock for the view of the lake, and adventure as people played extreme sport through the sunken valleys.

Climbing The Rock will get your

View from The Rock

stomach rumbling, so try Bandeja Paisa, a Colombian specialty mixing things like pork, rice, beans and chorizo. Feed your cultural side with a visit to Plaza Botero to see some of Fernando Botero’s most famous sculptures. Take a Pablo Escobar tour, remembering that this is a sensitive topic for locals. Get lost in the faerie-scape of Christmas lights hanging from the Parque Lleras trees, a convenient drinking spot next to the clubs.

We found our club and stayed later

than we should have, but earlier than we wanted, to catch a bus the next day.

Of course, because it was so near new year, all the buses were booked up.

For four days. I walked from booth to booth, hungover, trying to find three spare seats in a foreign language. It wasn’t much fun, particularly with two annoyed, hungover girls. But we got it sorted, and made it to Bogota, a city of mountain views, underground cathedrals in depleted salt mines and an Irish pub with no Guinness. I’ll fill you in on this another time.

Protecting pets against parasites

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etbarn and Greencross Vets are calling on pet parents in the community - especially new ones - to protect their four-legged friends against fleas, ticks and worms this Spring.

The call-to-action comes after Greencross Vets has seen an increase in parasite cases occurring during winter - before the warmer months have even set in. According to a recent survey* over 40% of pet parents are not properly treating their pets for fleas while 60% are not following tick-prevention guidance.

To assist and educate pet parents navigate this troublesome issue, Petbarn and Greencross Vets have revealed the most common parasite myths – including pet parents wrongly assuming pets are only at risk in the summer months and that puppies and kittens are too young to contract parasitic diseases.

Greencross Vets Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Magdoline Awad, said: “Throughout COVID-19, we have seen an influx of new pet owners who may not be aware of how important parasite prevention is, particularly for puppies and kittens.

“Intestinal parasites can cause weight loss, vomiting, anaemia, blockage and if severe enough cause

death pets, so it’s imperative to have an effective prevention in place.

With so much confusion around parasite prevention, we’re committed to busting myths and calling on all pet owners to make sure their pet is protected against parasites.”

Dr Magdoline Awad busts the most common parasite myths: Parasites are only a risk in summer A: While fleas and ticks may thrive in warmer environments, they are very much a risk to your pet all yearround.

2. I can’t see worms, so my pets mustn’t have any A: Worms live in your pet’s intestines and your pet will most likely only have worm eggs and larvae in their faeces, which are too small for the naked human eye to see, if they’re already contaminated.

3. My puppy/kitten is too young to have contracted a parasite A: Newborn puppies and kittens have a weaker immune system and can be contaminated from their mother’s milk. Some kittens are even born with worms already.

4. My pet lives indoors / in our garden, so they can’t contract parasites A: Not going outside does not

parasite-proof your pet. Simply eating contaminated grass, or licking shoes, can cause contamination. Humans can also unknowingly bring parasites into their homes on clothing. Parasites like fleas are very resilient and can lay dormant in carpet and furniture for months before being activated.

5. Humans can’t contract parasites from pets A: Humans can contract parasites from their pets through contact with contaminated faeces, through saliva, coming in contact with areas that pets relieve themselves in, or something as harmless as getting close for a snuggle. Due to their rapid multiplication, a few fleas on your pet can soon infest your entire home.

6. A single product can protect my pet from all parasites A: No single product can provide 100% protection against all parasites so you must always use a combination of two products to keep your pet safe – our FTW Finder Tool can help you find the right product combination.

7. I can give my cat, dog medication (and vice versa) A: No. Though they’re just as adorable on the outside, cats and dogs metabolise some drugs differently meaning that while dogs may be able to be given a certain medication, the

same medication could be lethal for a cat. It’s essential that you read all labels very carefully and only provide your pet with medication specifically registered for use in their species, appropriate for their age and weight.

How to protect against parasites – removing the confusion With so many parasites out there, that can harm our pets (and our families), it can be very confusing and overwhelming for pet parents to choose the right product that provides complete protection.

To help pet parents navigate parasite confusion, the experts at Petbarn and Greencross Vets have developed a Flea, Tick and Worm Treatment Finder tool to help identify the exact combination of treatment pets needs for total parasite protection.

The tool even takes into consideration the pet’s location – as parasites in Australia can vary according to geography.

Greencross Vets Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Magdoline Awad, said: “We understand just how confusing parasite prevention can be, particularly when there’s not one silver bullet for treatment. We hope our Finder Tool will put pet owners’ minds at ease and keep our pets happy, healthy and parasite-free!”

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ew research from the Westmead Health Precinct has discovered why some parts of our body start to worsen with age.

The study, led by Associate Professor Natasha Rogers and Dr Kedar Ghimire at the Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR), demonstrated the protein CD47 drives dysfunctions including decreased circulation and metabolism.

The research team discovered that interrupting CD47’s ability to function in ageing has the potential to slow or stop these dysfunctions.

It is hoped that therapies targeting this protein will be able to reduce the impact of these health issues on older people around the world.

A/Prof Rogers, who is also a kidney doctor at Westmead Hospital, said the group studied the role of CD47 in ageing in both humans and animals.

“We have identified that, as we age, CD47 levels increase in our blood vessels. We also noticed a reduction of self-renewal transcription factors in arteries. These factors help cells divide to make more cells, continuing the cell pool throughout life,” A/Prof Rogers said.

“We wondered what effects reducing CD47’s function would have on vascular and metabolic function in old age.”

Dr Ghimire, who conceptualised and conducted the study, found the answer.

“In older mice, we observed that endothelial cells that form the inner lining of arteries showed signs of exhaustion, including decreased proliferation, migration and tube formation. However, when the same cells were devoid of CD47, they did not show signs of this deterioration. We also treated

Associate Professor Natasha Rogers and Dr Kedar Ghimire.

the arteries of older people with a CD47 blocking antibody and observed the same effects,” Dr Ghimire said.

This study indicates that CD47 increases during ageing and facilitates the dysfunction of arteries and metabolic balance. If this protein is not allowed to function during ageing, many of these health issues can be minimised.

“With the aged population currently at its highest level in human history and expected to increase in

coming years, reducing the health risks to older community members has never been more vital,” A/Prof Rogers said.

“Our findings provide a strong indication that a therapy to target CD47 could minimise some of these serious dysfunctions associated with ageing.”

Dr Ghimire said: ‘’As a next step, we plan to study the consequences of increased CD47 in human metabolism and hope to unravel the effects of CD47 in diabetes.”

Bookings team powers through COVID-19 surgery backlog

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hether you need a cancer removed, a joint replaced or a new organ, every elective surgery patient deals with one team: bookings and admissions.

The 14-strong team at Westmead Hospital has laboured tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the pandemic, ensuring hundreds of surgeries are booked on time every week to keep people healthy.

They are the facilitators, booking every preadmission appointment and surgery with the surgeons and patients, and rearranging when elective surgeries need to be postponed due to a higher priority.

About 60 per cent of surgeries that take place at Westmead Hospital are emergencies – people rushed in from car crashes, workplace incidents and the like for immediate life- and limb-saving procedures.

The remainder are elective surgeries, also known as planned surgeries, which fall under three categories: • Urgent: to be performed within 30 days, such as cancer removal and heart valve replacements • Semi-urgent: to be performed within 90 days, such as biopsies and digit amputations • Non-urgent: to be performed within 365 days, such as knee replacements and cataract extractions On March 26 the Australian Government suspended all non-urgent and some semi-urgent surgery in order to prepare hospitals for a surge of COVID-19 patients.

The latest Bureau of Health Information report shows the necessary decision saw the NSW elective surgery waitlist blow out to more than 100,000 patients.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) elective waitlist manager Ujala Tahir said her team has worked tirelessly over the past few months to

Westmead Hospital books and admissions team members Sarita Devi, Sashi Kumar and Evelyn Gendive.

increase surgical capacity and play our district’s part in working through the backlog created by the temporary suspension.

“In May we had 923 patients who were overdue for surgery. We’ve since brought that down to 572, and not one urgent surgery has been overdue,” Ujala explained.

“Right now we are one of the best-performing local health districts in NSW with respect to reduction in overdue surgeries, and a lot of that is due to the incredible hard work of this team.

“They have been fantastic in keeping the momentum going, staying sane, keeping morale high and having fun every day. You have to be a team player in this role and everyone looks out for

each other.”

Ujala said there were many others to thank including the surgeons, surgery nurses, anaesthetics theatre coordinator Dr Susan Voss, theatre nurse manager Lee-Ann McDonald and acting clinical director Professor Andrew Brooks.

“All the surgeons have been really accommodative, but special thanks to Dr Lawrence Yuen and Dr James Toh who have done amazing work. They’ve taken everything I’ve thrown at them and of course we couldn’t do it without them,” Ujala said.

“But I always tell my team that what we do here is not ‘just admin’. We are part of the big picture and we are actually helping people.”

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Westmead research unearths one key to stop ageing

11

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

12

WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

An Early Head Study

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

P

hrenology developed in the 1820’s and was the study of the human skull, basically looking for mental faculties and traits of character especially according to the hypotheses of Franz Joseph Gall a German doctor. It also led to fraudsters and charlatans who were able to make money unlawfully. To anyone who has ever shaved his or her head and been horrified by the lumps and dents hidden beneath, the idea that those bumps said anything about a person’s character might be unsettling.

But for millions of Americans in the 19th century phrenology provided comfort and insight, a way to know and understand behaviour and personality with seemingly scientific precision.

The phrenologists called it “the only true science of mind” and it enjoyed great popular appeal well into the 20th century, but now it has been wholly discredited by scientific research. But back then people were asking “Why do we act the way we do? What determines the patterns of our behaviour? How can we be better people?.”

While phrenology became extremely popular in Europe its most devoted audience was in the United States. One reason phrenology attracted so many followers was that it seemed to provide the toolbox for the American dream. All classes of society found much to admire in phrenology. The upper classes liked it because it reassured them that the social hierarchy that placed them on top was “natural”; the emerging middle class and working classes liked it because its message confirmed their hope of advancement through personal striving and selfimprovement. Back in 1890, one such “Professor” came to Australia.

He was born in the USA in 1853 calling himself Louis De Wayne. He also had several aliases namely Joseph Ed Lukes and Professor P De Lissa. As it was as “Professor” De Lissa he visited Penrith where it was said he managed a show. He stayed in Penrith at the Federal Hotel, once called the Wheelwrights Arms. This hotel was a working man’s pub and Patrick O’Connell was the owner. Patrick advertised that he had a phrenologist staying at his hotel whose name was Professor P De Lissa.

Patrick thought he was great because the professor also took out corns painlessly and treated everything else. In September 1891, a somewhat amusing incident occurred that caused a little bit of excitement around the hotel. The “Professor” who apparently cured everything but bad debts, came to the attention of Patrick who did not like the worthy professor’s movements and promptly informed him that his company was no longer required. The professor then made for the boarding house of Mrs Edwards and all went peacefully until the Professor was seen sneaking out from the backyard and Mrs Edwards followed with a bill for a week’s board and a long and exciting chase took place. Seeing this, Mr Freeth of the Nepean Times took the matter in hand and soon bailed up the Professor and the matter ended by him parting with his silver chain and 4/- and ending the fun. On leaving Penrith the Professor was the owner of a fruit shop in Oxford Street in Sydney that was later burnt down, and he was using his home in Botany Street Sydney to carry on

his trade and dispense pills and potions illegally.

The law finally caught up with him when he was convicted at the Central Criminal Court in June 1892 for administering drugs for an unlawful purpose. Louis, who advertised in the Sydney papers was charged with administering noxious drugs for an unlawful purpose. Acting Judge Heydon said “it was perfectly clear that you have entered upon this trade, evidently a very lucrative one, by inducing women and girls to murder their unborn children and, it seems, that you have carried on for some time. You have caused the death of not only the child but also the mother which is a most disgraceful thing and, I detest the insertion of advertisements such as yours, also those papers who insert quack advertisers and it is impossible for the law to lay down a general rule beforehand that should exclude all unlawful advertisements, but it is perfectly easy for newspaper proprietors to know they see advertisements which are legitimate and which are not. But by putting advertisements such as yours they are really entering into a partnership with abortionists and supporting their business for a share in their gains and, of course, share the moral responsibility for the deaths which are caused, so the sentence I give, you deserve every minute of it.” Jessie Maria Martin nearly 16 years of age had written a letter to procure certain pills to Louis’s wife now calling herself “Mrs T Dale” and his wife wrote back saying she was unable to explain what Jessie wanted and to bring the letter back to her at her home in Botany Street. So Jessie, with her sister Mary Rispen came to the home of “Mrs Dale” but found that she was out teaching music and a man who was later identified as Louis said that he would “do as well” and his fees were £2/2s & £10/10s. He gave her pills and potions that contained “small” amounts of two lethal drugs which Louis said at his trial he thought it was not enough to kill her, but Jessie and her unborn baby died on the 6th March at her sister’s home at Penshurst Street North Willoughby. The Court case was lengthy with the final verdict of “Wilful Murder” and he was sentenced to 8 years penal servitude plus another ten years (5 for the mother & 5 for the unborn child). In 1892 Louis was described as 5’5” tall with a fresh complexion, grey hair and eyes. His religion was Wesleyan, and he spoke with a “Yankie twang” and was found a charlatan and never a real phrenologist. Louis’s wife Nellie De Wayne filed for divorce when he went to prison. Louis was sent to Goulburn Gaol in 1892, then later moved to Darlinghurst Gaol, then moved again to Maitland Gaol in 1893. In November that year he was sent back to Goulburn Gaol for “misconduct” but later sent back to Darlinghurst again. It was noted that after only 4 years in prison he was discharged in 1896 from Darlinghurst gaol. With so many alias’s it is hard to know what happened to him after leaving prison. His photo taken at Darlinghurst Gaol in April 1892 courtesy of NSW State Archives.

Sources: Nepean Times, Trove, NSW Criminal Court documents, NSW Police Gazette 1896, NSW Government Gazette, Info from Goulburn, Darlinghurst & Maitland Gaol’s records, Encyclopedia Britannica, the Atlantic newspaper, The Australasian Medical Gazette, Ancestry.

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Western News

local news

N

SW Labor is calling for the NSW Government to fast-track the delivery of a Service NSW centre in the Riverstone electorate to create jobs and help people access services.

Shadow Minister for Better Public Services Sophie Cotsis and Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali recently visited Riverstone to push for the much-needed centre to be built before the Government’s proposed timeline of 2023.

The Government promised to build 10 new Service NSW centres before the 2019 state election but Ms Cotsis said the Government needs to prioritise a centre in the Riverstone electorate to support the rapidly growing population.

“The Government needs to honour its election promise and deliver the new Service NSW Centres as quickly as possible to create jobs and ensure people have access to important services,” Ms Cotsis said.

“The Riverstone electorate has one of the state’s fastest growing populations but the Government has failed to deliver new services to match this growth.”

She said the demand for Service NSW assistance has surged this year due to the bushfire crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Service NSW helps people access a variety of Government programs including driving licence applications

and renewals, vehicle registrations, occupational licences and cost of living programs.”

“The Government promised a new Service NSW centre for the area 18 months ago, but they have not provided any details about exactly where or when this centre will be built.”

Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali said a Service NSW outreach office was operating in Riverstone one day a week but had been cancelled due to COVID-19.

“It’s disappointing to see such a vital service cancelled with no confirmation about when it will be reinstated,” Mr Bali said.

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Labor urges government to fast-track the delivery of a Service nsw Centre in the Riverstone electorate

13

“A permanent centre is desperately needed but at the very least we need the Riverstone centre to get back up and running.”

Labor spokesperson for Riverstone Adam Searle said the Government continues to neglect families and businesses in the growing north-west of Sydney.

“It’s broken promise after broken promise, they’ve failed to deliver on school upgrades, the Rouse Hill Hospital and new roads,” Mr Searle said.

“Now they’re letting residents down who want to access the most basic services.”

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Shuffle (7) 5 A chronicle of past events (7) 9 Lamp at the front of a car (9) 10 A literary genre (5) 11 Souvenir (7) 12 Idyllically calm and peaceful (7) 13 Diffused (9) 15 Ate (5) 17 Out of fashion (5) 19 Allotted (9) 22 Lollypops (7) 25 Perform surgery (7) 26 Muse of lyric poetry (5) 27 English and French, for example (9) 28 Gratify (7) 29 A 19th century men’s overcoat (7) down 1 Planned (7) 2 They needlessly cry “Wolf” (9) 3 Equilibrium (7)

solution 2/10/20

4 5 6 7 8 14 16 17 18

20 21 23 24

Wholly absorbed in thought (9) Door on a ship (5) Burdened (7) Female organ (5) Desired strongly (7) Reductions in price (9) Homesick (9) Land reclaimed from the sea (7) They decide what goes in a magazine (7) The death penalty (7) Chest of drawers (7) Jumped (5) Spread out (5)

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

14

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

M

Western News

Home buyers delay ownership especially if Self Employed

any Australians have been impacted by COVID-19, including having to hold on making significant financial decisions from travel, buying a car, home renovations to buying property.

Research from AMP has revealed that two in three Australians’ finances have been impacted by COVID-19, bringing into view a range of short and long-term ramifications. Almost half (49%) of those surveyed expect it will take at least 3 months to get their financial situation to before Covid-19 financial position. Of those surveyed, over a third (38%) had cut back on spending and many increasing their savings position.

Compared to 2019, 2020 has seen Australians review what their priorities should be and to prepare and plan for their futures and get their finances in order in the current Covid-19 economic and financial climate.

Australians are resilient and optimistic about the future however getting a home loan especially when you are self-employed is not an easy process during these times.

Lenders often shy away from those who work for themselves who cannot

hand over payslips and employment records. The self-employed don’t always offer the financial stability a lender looks for in a borrower to prove the ability to service a loan and as such, as a self-employed person applying for a home loan, you’ll need to provide bank statements, financial records and declarations from your accountant before most lenders will even consider you.

Even then, there will be many questions to answer, you must still prove that your income outstrips your spending and you can service the loan. Getting this right is more than presenting a lender with a few quick sums on the back of a napkin; it can take a solid six to 12 months of preparation.

People who are self-employed are in a unique situation when it comes to taking out home loans. As a guide, here’s what to look for when seeking a loan provider, and here’s how to get yourself in the best financial shape possible when applying.

Be organised and informed about your finances If you’re self-employed and have fluctuating income, or you’re reliant on different sources of revenue, do

your research to see what might be accepted by lenders as alternative forms of earnings, including revenue from rent, shares and other investments.

It is also important to show some proof of savings, as well as a good credit history. Savings, both genuine and non-genuine, can be in the form of funds held in a bank account or in a term deposit for over six months.

To support your application, the key is to be as organised and as diligent with your financial records as possible and have these documents available for at least up to six months.

Ensure also that your BAS (Business Activity Statements), tax returns and financial records are accurate, up to date and paid in full.

Plan for future lean periods The often-unpredictable nature of self-employment means that downturns and lulls in income can and do occur, which can potentially impact loan repayments.

To prevent falling behind on repayments and risking any penalties, when you’re shopping around for the right loan, it could be helpful to look for ones that allow flexible

@wealthwiz

repayments. This can help ensure that you have the flexibility to make extra repayments during periods when your income is regular and pay the minimum during low income. Having a redraw facility to use money already repaid can be invaluable to selfemployed borrowers.

What to look out for in a lender Self-employed home loan applicants should look for lenders that offer flexibility, are understanding about an individual’s circumstances and the challenge of not being able to simply present payslips and tax returns. Whether the lender accepts alternative documentation for their application for credit approval.

Many self-employed borrowers come up against some challenges in getting a home loan, but this need not stop you buying your dream home and great product.

Simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is self-employed 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.

#wealthwizau

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Western News

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

E

xciting young local footballer (Soccer) Patrick Beach (Glenmore Park) has accepted a scholarship contract to *LARNE FC in Northern Ireland (in conjunction with the #Steven Gerrard Academy in Liverpool) and flew out of Australia on 8th October to begin the next phase of his football career.

Patrick will link up at Larne with another Penrith player Riley D’Sena and be training and Photo: Provided by Mark Beach playing football on a permanent basis 5 days per week, whilst also studying for a Diploma in Sport. but I brought him up to train with the senior keepers, We featured Patrick in the Nepean News last as he was quite clearly a step up from the youth level October, following his successful nomination for the and not out of place with the seniors.”

Penrith Valley Sports Foundation Junior Sports Star “Pat is technically one of the best keepers I’ve seen Award. for his age and has the potential to go a long way in Patrick had been selected as a member of the the game,” said Ante.

Australian Schoolboys Football team, which “But as I have always said to him, potential undertook a highly impressive 3-week tour of the guarantees nothing, you still have to live up to that United Kingdom in January this year. potential, being humble, disciplined and working The Australian team played against English hard is what will ultimately get him there.”

Independent Schools (0-1), Newport County FC “With that said, Pat is a very hard-working, (2-0), Bristol City Academy (2-0), Republic of disciplined young goalkeeper with a great attitude, Ireland (0-2), OLSPCK (1-1), Scotland (3-2), Bolton always willing to speak to me and learn how and Wanderers (0-3), Fleetwood Town FC (4-2) and West where he can improve, it makes him easy to work Ham United Development Squad (16-0). with and to get the best out of him.”

Patrick had earned his selection for the Australian “Over the past 2 years, I have worked hard with team following success at the National Schoolboys him to keep improving on his technical ability, which Football Championships in Queensland, where he he has but for me just as important was to mentor captained the NSW All-Schools Boys Under 16 team him into getting mentally ready for what it takes to on an unbeaten run to claim the national title. get to keep taking the next step and ready for senior Starting in Glenmore Park as a 4-year old and football, to understand the game as a goalkeeper and playing there for 5 years, Patrick moved on to Mt be able to perform for 90 mins on the weekend and Druitt Town Rangers in both the SAP and Premier influence the game when you don’t need to make League 1 for 6 years (becoming a goalkeeper during a save,” said Ante. “In both aspects of the game, that time), then playing 2 years with the Marconi mentally and technically, Pat has improved greatly Stallions.

- he has all the technical ability but is also adding Then a Year 10 student at Westfields Sports HS the mental side, which is so important to be a great at the time of our first interview, Patrick’s ambition goalkeeper.” “Reading the game, dominating your was to gain one of those rare opportunities to earn area, influencing the game and being a leader on the a contract to play regularly overseas and 12 months park are just as important as your technical ability to later, he is now on the cusp of achieving his dream. ultimately keep the ball out of your net.”

Former Australian goalkeeper Ante Covic is “Going over to Larne and into a more professional Patrick’s goalkeeping coach at Marconi and has a environment is the result of Pat working hard and very high opinion of his young charge. improving daily and I am proud to have been able to “I’ve coached Pat for the last 2 seasons at Marconi,” help him along the way,” said Ante. said Ante. “The first year he was playing in the U/16’s “There was never a thought in my mind ‘if’ Pat

was to take the next step and get an opportunity somewhere but ‘when’.” “With his attitude and ability, there is no reason why he can’t go all the way and become a full time professional and fulfil any ambitions he has,” said Ante. “He (Pat) is still very young and will continue to learn in a tougher environment - he has what it takes to be able to succeed.”

“Larne FC is the first step in what could be a successful career for Pat, there are no sure things in football but if he keeps improving the way he has over the last 2 years and keeps his great attitude, discipline and hard work there is no reason he can’t keep making steps forward and have a long successful career in football.”

Patrick’s father Mark Beach said “This is a new and exciting chapter for Pat on his journey of wanting to become a professional football player.”

“We are all super proud of you, your commitment and determination, along with your drive to always do your best.”

“Wishing you every success - keep living and loving what you are doing,” said Mark.

“Thank you to all his coaches who have assisted Pat on his football journey so far – Jo (Patrick’s mother) and I are forever grateful and we know Pat will do us all proud.”

Pat expressed his gratitude to all of his past coaches and said “I’ve been very lucky to have some amazing coaches, particularly Paul Hayward who gave me an opportunity in goals in U13’s.”

“Marconi has also been a great club to be involved with over the past 2 years, being great at all aspects of the game, particularly progressing junior players through the ranks,” said Pat. * LARNE FC is a professional Northern Irish football club based in Larne, County Antrim, which plays in the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) Premiership. # The Steven Gerrard Academy provides a high quality experience for 16-19 year olds who are interested in pursuing further education and a career in football, such as coaching or other professions within the sports industry. The education program runs alongside an outstanding football schedule, led

by UEFA licensed coaches with experience in top academies, such as Liverpool Football Club.

‘Achieving Excellence Together’ is fundamental to our continued growth and success in the academic and sporting arenas.

Blacktown CBD Forum goes online - Have your say

B

lacktown City Council is giving residents and businesses the opportunity to go online and ‘Have Your Say’ on the major projects, plans and issues in the Blacktown CBD. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “We want to update the community on our major CBD projects and share the plans that we have for our city centre. We also want to give residents and business owners the opportunity to raise issues of concern, relating to the CBD. “Due to COVID restrictions, Council hasn’t been able to hold our regular face-to-face community forums.

“Earlier this year we held an extremely successful ‘Q and A’ style online forum on the planning and transport issues facing residents and businesses in Marsden Park.

“We live streamed the forum on social media and connected with more than 10,000 people.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Council will hold a live stream online Blacktown CBD forum on Monday 26 October, at 7pm.

Mayor Bleasdale will be joined on a panel by Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths, Australian Catholic University’s National Manager, Strategic Projects, Jane Caton and representatives from business and the community.

The panel will give updates on the major projects, answer questions and discuss the issues of concern relating to the Blacktown CBD. Residents and business are invited to submit pre-recorded video questions, email questions or they can text in on the night.

“We are undertaking a massive redevelopment of the Warrick Lane

precinct, building an underground carpark, creating a new park and plaza with shops, restaurants and offices.”

Mayor Bleasdale said.

“The Australian Catholic University opens its campus in the City centre in February next year bringing hundreds and eventually thousands of students into the CBD. “In addition, Council is breathing new life into the centre of Blacktown with a series of activations including street art, pop-up parks and music performances, with food festivals back as soon as COVID restrictions allow.

“We want to share the excitement and at the same time hear the issues of concern.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Blacktown CBD Online community forum: Monday 26 October. 7.00 pm. www.facebook.com/ BlacktownCityCouncil/

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths.

For further information: www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/ blacktowncbdforum To submit your questions, or submit a video question email: forums@ blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Western News 16 October 2020 Issue 120

Local goalkeeper heads to Ireland to further his career

15

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 16 October 2020

Paddle NSW to Host the Morison 50

By Noel Rowsell

P

addle NSW will host the inaugural ‘Morison 50’ on October 31st, 2020, with races starting from Macquarie Park, Windsor and paddlers choosing to paddle either 50, 24 or 12 kms in out-and-back races.

An estimated 150-200 paddlers will follow the natural course of the river, turning back at different checkpoints for the 3 divisions and returning to Windsor.

The early starters (50km) will begin arriving at Macquarie Park at 1.30pm, with scrutineering to commence at 2.30pm.

The 50km races begin at 3pm and 4pm (late start), followed by the 25km at 5pm and 6pm (late start) and the 12km at 7pm.

Paddlers in all races have a maximum time limit to reach their respective ‘turn-around’ points and all races have been scheduled to see paddlers return to Macquarie Park from 7.45pm.

The timing of the event will see all competitors paddling on the Hawkesbury River under moonlight, with the moon rising at 6:58pm.

Among the craft expected in the event are Olympic & World Championship Class K1 (Single paddler), K2 (two Paddlers) and K4’s (4 Paddlers), Recreational Class boats in single and double paddler classes, Ocean racing and Surf Life Saving skis (also in single and doubles), Stand Up paddle boards, Sea kayaks, Outrigger canoes and Single

Paddlers launch from the starting line - file photo courtesy of Paddle NSW

and Double canoes.

The Morison 50 is named in honour of Paddle NSW Life Members Joan and Bruce Morison, who passed away within 6 months of each other in 2014/15 after a life-long commitment to paddling.

Joan joined Bruce in the late 1940’s to convene a meeting that established the Youth Hostels Association Canoe Club. The club provided the opportunity for YHA members to

experience canoeing up to 1974. In fact, they actually conducted the first NSW Canoe Championships under the auspices of the NSW Canoe Association.

Joan and Bruce were each awarded an OAM for Services to the Sport of Canoeing and their involvement with canoeing crossed all disciplines and facets of the sport at local, state and national levels.

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