Western News 20 March 2020

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Friday, 20 March 2020

ISSUE 105

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In the lead up to Easter and winter approaching the need for blood donors is always important but with Coronavirus dominating our lives at the moment donating blood is more important than ever. See page 8 For full story.

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

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Sea change for valued vollie love birds

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much-loved volunteer couple are calling an end to more than four decades of advocating for Western Sydney.

Ken and Marj Freeman dedicated their time and energy to raising the profile of Blacktown Hospital and Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) among their many volunteer endeavours in the western suburbs.

The couple plan to move closer to their family members on the South Coast.

As consumer representatives they were paramount in early discussions about the establishment and design of the hospital’s new Cancer Centre, signage, wayfinding and other services.

Blacktown Hospital General Manager Ned Katrib thanked the adorable couple for their tireless contributions and ideas at a recent farewell.

“We invited the Freemans to join our hospital Consumer Feedback Working Committee and it was then that they started to get a feel for the issues and difficulties in planning and implementing the redesign, and the challenges we faced when building a new hospital,” Ned said.

“I wish them both the best of luck for their relocation to the South Coast and am confident that they will be a valued part of that community.

“We will miss their enthusiasm and creativity, and I hope they visit us again soon so they can see the changes which they have helped implement.”

WSLHD Community and Consumer Partnerships manager Dr Coralie Wales is grateful for their contributions and thanked the

WSLHD Consumer representatives Ken and Marj Freeman say farewell to Western Sydney for a sea change to the South Coast.

couple for their commitment to improved health services in Western Sydney.

“Marj and Ken were foundation members of the WLSHD Consumer Council in 2014. Their input has helped shape the Council into a high impact think-tank for WSLHD,” Coralie said.

“The pair received the highest recognition for their work – they both received the Order of Australia Medal for their work in the Blacktown community.

“Marj and Ken will be dearly missed and I thank them for their dedication, contributions and energy.

I was proud that they were part of our Consumer Representative family.”

The family moved to Blacktown in 1966 where they remained for 53 years.

“Blacktown has been a really exciting place to be,” Marj said.

“We’ve seen so many improvements at the hospital and it’s been a joy to live in the area, and particularly to be involved with our fellow consumers, community members and staff from the hospital.”

“The staff are so caring and put in lots of effort for everyone to feel more comfortable,” Ken added.

All the best Ken and Marj we hope you enjoy your sea change!

A free information session for people who want to learn about or join our Consumer representatives at Westmead Hospital will be held on Friday, 6 March at 9.30am. To register for this session, please contact WSLHD Community and Consumer Partnerships officer Tara Lee on 0437 874 244 or tara.lee1@ health.nsw.gov.au

WSLHD Consumer representative Ken Freeman, Clinical Governance support coordinator Laura Griffin, Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals general manager Ned Katrib, Divisional nurse manager Helen Konowec and WSLHD Consumer representative Marj Freeman.

School alerts direct to your pocket Parents will have information relating to their child’s school at their fingertips, with the NSW Government launching the first ever ‘School Updates app’.

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inister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the app will ensure parents receive immediate alerts if their child’s school is to be closed the following day.

“The past few months have been incredibly challenging both for school communities in bushfire and now flood impacted areas,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We have learnt you can never overcommunicate in a crisis. This app provides an extra channel to inform parents if their children’s school is closed.

“During the fires last year and floods this year, schools worked incredibly hard to ensure everyone was informed.

The app complements these efforts with an automated and personalised

NSW families can now get notified when their school becomes non-operational, wherever they are.

alert informing parents their school is closed and to seek additional advice.”

At the peak of the bushfire crisis, in November, there were up to 20,000 people accessing school safety information on the department’s website each minute - and a total of 1.35 million visitors in the last four months.

The app will expand over time to provide more centralised information to parents and families.

“It will be particularly helpful for parents with children at separate schools, as multiple schools can be registered on the app to provide local information,” Ms Mitchell said.

The app is an opt-in service, and is available at app stores for iOS and Android users.

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ore than 60 bilingual community educators (BCE) received training on how to interpret new cancer screening resources to community members.

This session was coordinated by Cancer Institute NSW to upskill, refresh and introduce educators about the new brochures which cover topics such as cervical cancer, breast and bowel screening.

The workshops were held to help increase health literacy among cultural groups and give educators the tools to start a conversation around a variety of health topics.

WSLHD Bilingual community educator Sapna Lazarus.

Bilingual community educators attend a training session on new cancer resources.

Educators were trained in English.

They will then deliver these messages to their community groups in Arabic, Dari, Punjabi, Bengali, Tamil, Cantonese, Tagalog, Indonesian, Mandarin, Korean, Dinka and Urdu.

Hindi and Bengali speaking educator and former physiotherapist of more than 30 years Sapna Lazarus enjoys helping people in her community.

“I’m helping my people to navigate the health system and open doors for more information.”

Tagalog speaking educator Julie Nunez, OAM is using her personal experience to help her friends, family and community lead happier and healthier lives.

“I gained a lot from attending this educational session and I look forward

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to spreading the word to the Filipino community.”

WSLHD is working with Cancer

Institute NSW to deliver important lifesaving cancer screening information in the most effective way to multicultural communities.

The district’s Bilingual Community Education (BCE) program has been educating and empowering communities since the early 90s. The program trains men and women from the community in health topics and they run these sessions in languages for various groups across the district.

The Cancer Institute NSW is making cultural and diverse communities a priority and is working with stakeholders to develop and identify relevant information for those communities.

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

Cancer messages travel further in common languages

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New cervical screening resources.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

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Prospect

From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ell, the world has certainly changed dramatically since I last sat down to write my column.

I admit that it was not even two weeks ago that I was raising my eyebrows at the ‘doomsday preppers’ and making jokes that if we were going into lockdown, top of my shopping list was going to be wine not dunny paper. And I said it all not thinking for one minute that lockdown might be in any way probable.

Who predicted that things would escalate to this degree so quickly? Not I. And it’s hard to keep up with what’s happening, because this story changes by the hour.

It’s hard to not assume that all these measures are a build up to an eventual total lockdown.

Perhaps that would even be better than the limbo we face at the moment?

Part of me thinks Scomo should just call a lockdown with some sort of economy freeze (nobody gets paid, nobody gets billed and the government foots the essential costs for a couple of weeks). Have everyone stay in the home, get rid of the virus altogether and don’t open our borders until the other countries get their act together.

Might sound like fantasy but maybe a short-ish period of pain is worth it if we can just go back to normal afterwards?

How many businesses in this area can sustain months of limited or no trading?

I’d say not many - if even any.

It looks like school closures of some degree are are imminent, and if there’s no lockdown there will most certainly be many people working from home or confined to the home in self-isolation.

Perhaps it’s time to dust off the old board games or drag out that complete DVD series you bought years ago.

It can’t hurt to use this unpredictable position we find ourselves in to devote some quality time to those around you.

If you think it’s all hype and would prefer to go out, chances are wherever you were going has been cancelled or postponed anyway.

Stay safe everyone. I hope the news is more upbeat by the next time I write to you.

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Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

Special state powers triggered to combat COVID-19

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SW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has made an order under Section 7 of the Public Health Act 2010 to force the immediate cancellation of public events with more than 500 people and there’s speculation that number may be reduced in the coming days.

Mr Hazzard said under the planned changes, individuals who fail to comply could face up to six months in prison or a fine of up to $11,000 or both, plus additional penalties for each day the offence continues.

Corporations face even harsher fines.

“I urge the community to do the right thing and obey the decisions and advice of the national and NSW chief medical officers,” Mr Hazzard said.

“But we will be tough if needed, to protect the wider community.”

Mr Hazzard said the order ensures the new requirements of the National Cabinet are operational immediately after midnight 15 March, 2020.

The NSW Government COVID-19 ‘War Cabinet’ met by teleconference to endorse the chief health officer’s advice on keeping schools open.

NSW public schools will remain open but with enhanced safeguards including students not being required to attend assemblies and other measures to ensure a focus on

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increased physical separation.

All chief health officers of Australia believe that school closures should not be recommended at this stage in the pandemic. This decision will remain under constant review to ensure the best outcome for children and young people.

As agreed by the National Cabinet, all entrants to Australia, including returning residents and citizens, will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. NSW will continue to support the Commonwealth Government in implementing this requirement.

If any individual fails to do so the NSW chief health officer may issue an order to forcibly require compliance.

Any enforcement required would be in consultation with NSW Police.

“The spread here has been slowed significantly by the government’s actions on the advice of health experts, and we will use our legislative public health powers to best safeguard the community,” Mr Hazzard said.

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Schools to implement distancing measures Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education, announced that schools would adopt social distancing measures requiring them to cancel assemblies, excursions, travel, some events and conferences.

Mr Scott said these measures are precautionary and designed to reduce exposure via non-essential gatherings.

“Schools have been a focus of the community and the government as the impacts of coronavirus have developed globally,” Mr Scott said.

“From Monday onwards, I expect school assemblies and substantial gatherings to be cancelled, along with all excursions.

“The community expects schools to be as safe as possible. We are implementing these measures to provide peace of mind for students, parents and staff.”

“These cancellations also extend to inter-school arts, sports, initiative activities and events.

All major arts, sports and initiative

activities and events will temporarily be ceased until further notice. This includes whole-school sporting events and inter-school events involving three or more schools.

“Local inter-school sport and other activities can proceed, but we ask organisers to ensure that as far as possible, reasonable precautions are taken,” Mr Scott said.

“I trust our principals and staff to show leadership during this time.”

Schools will be provided with more

detailed advice and suggestions on how they can adjust their day to day activities with minimal disruption.

The department is continuing to prepare for further closures if necessary with scaling up of technology, additional training of staff and preparation of offsite lessons.

Families and students in selfisolation can find useful information to continue learning from home.

For the latest information, check COVID-19 advice for schools.

Blacktown City Council - COVID 19 - Response

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lacktown City Council is embarking on a series of measures and actions in the interests of the health and wellbeing of residents in response to the global COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “Council has a duty of care to the community and our staff and we are fully committed to take whatever action we can to slow the spread of the virus in our region.

“Based on the lessons we’ve learned from overseas, we must act quickly and decisively, or many lives will be lost.

“We need to slow the infection rate and the most effective approach is through ‘social distancing’ which includes avoiding crowds, meetings and gatherings, staying home if you are sick, working from home, giving people ‘space’ and most importantly practising good personal hygiene.

“Under this approach, the pandemic will last longer, but health outcomes will be far better “While Government restrictions apply to public gatherings of 500 or

more people, Council has decided to recommend that all non-essential large gatherings, meetings and events in Blacktown City be cancelled or postponed.

“Council will take the lead in this by cancelling or postponing all non-essential gatherings, events and meetings that come under Council control,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Council will cancel the Citizenship ceremony scheduled for Thursday 19 March in Bowman Hall in Blacktown and postpone the Community Forum planned for Marsden Park this Saturday, 21st March in the Elara estate.

“While halting these events is a big disappointment for residents and Council alike, the health and wellbeing of the community must be our number one priority during these difficult times,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The Community Forum had been planned to spotlight major transport, health and education infrastructure deficiencies that have impacted Marsden Park and surrounding suburbs.

“While we are totally behind the residents with their justified concerns it would be irresponsible for Council to go ahead with a large public gathering at this time,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Council has also cancelled the Blacktown Night Markets Friday 27th March, the Seven Hills Festival Saturday 28 March and the ‘designa-park’ meeting Saturday 21 March at the corner of Fourth avenue and Prince Street, Blacktown.

Mayor Bleasdale is recommending that all large, non-essential gatherings, events and meetings should be cancelled or postponed.

“We will be cancelling or postponing all bookings for Bowman Hall for next two months.

“We are also urging residents and businesses to adopt ‘social distancing’ in their day-to-day activities. That is, make some space in restaurants, shops and entrainment venues, avoid crowds and, where possible, crowded public transport.”

Blacktown City Council is also

taking preventative measures within Council operations to safeguard staff and the general public.

Council staff will be encouraged, where practicable, to work from home and non-essential meetings will be cancelled or held online or by phone.

Council staff are being told that they should not attend work and seek immediate medical advice if they have symptoms of cold or flu.

“We advise all businesses, where possible, to adopt similar practices.”

Mayor Bleasdale said.

Council will embark on an extensive public health campaign at all its venues, offices, on its website and on social media emphasising the importance of personal hygiene and advising people of the actions they should take to protect themselves and to help slow the spread of the virus.

For updates on cancelations of Council events go to: www.blacktown. nsw.gov.au For health advise on COVID-19 go to: www.health.gov.au/covid19resources

Outdoor fun for Schofields residents at new park

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chofield residents will soon have a whole new park to enjoy.

Work is expected to be completed by July on the $840,600 park at the corner of Oallen Place and Bannaby Crescent, Schofields.

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

“A feature of this park will be the retention of a heritage-listed oak tree as the focal point of the new facilities. There will be seating, paths and shade, included to make the park as comfortable and accessible to as many people in the community as possible.”

Additional native trees, grasses and shrubs are being planted within the park along the creek line to provide a natural habitat for the native bird and animal population.

The new park will include a swing set with an inclusive net swing, in-ground trampolines, main fort including viewing platforms and slide, tee-pee fort with slide and net bridge to large net climbing structure and spinner.

Artist impression of the new park at Oallen Place and Bannaby Crescent Schofields.

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oilet paper shelves are emptying across the country and according to Western Sydney Local Health District’s acting executive director of mental health Professor Bill Brakoulias, there is an evolutionary reason for it.

Prof Brakoulias says behaviours we are seeing in response to COVID-19 are categorised as ‘hoarding’.

“Hoarding behaviours are underpinned by a thought that we might need something in the future,” Prof Brakoulias said.

“Just like squirrels that gather acorns for winter, it is in our human nature to select things and keep them in case we need them for future use.

“When people get anxious they have what’s called ‘catastrophic cognitions’ – they think of the worst case scenario – and one way of controlling this anxiety is to collect things and keep things in order to feel safe.”

Prof Brakoulias said the toilet paper collection is likely to do with people simply wanting a product before it runs out.

“Toilet paper takes a lot more room in the shopping centre shelves, so it’s a lot more obvious when a whole aisle is missing compared to a can of baked beans for example,” Prof Brakoulias.

“This makes people want to get

Empty shelves of toilet paper are becoming a common sight in Australia.

Picture: ABC/Kelsie Iorio

their packet in case they completely run out.

“The desire for toilet paper is also linked to Freudian psychology – people are focusing on the needs of their bodily functions because they are anxious.”

Prof Brakoulias said there are more important things for the community to do, that don’t include toilet paper hoarding.

“Anxiety stems from an inability to control things. Luckily there are some things we can do to manage our response to COVID-19,” Professor Brakoulias said.

Here are the top suggestions: Wash your hands regularly, especially before meals Wipe surfaces with disinfectant including steering wheels, keyboards, smartphones Try to not make assumptions – look at balanced sources of information when seeking information about COVID-19, such as the NSW Health websiteContinue to monitor social media but remember to focus on information from verified accounts such as the NSW Health and Western Sydney Health social media accounts Exercise and eat healthy – this will

boost your immunity Explore stress management and relaxation management techniques “Anxiety occurs on a spectrum from normal to pathological,” Prof Brakoulias said.

“COVID-19 can exacerbate existing problems, so if you are struggling, please call a health professional or phone a help line.”

If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, please call triple-0 or the following organisations for support: Mental Health Hotline (Open 24 Hours) – 1800 011 511 Lifeline – 13 11 14 Beyond Blue – 1300 22 46 36 Men’s Help – 1300 78 99 78

Professor Bill Brakoulias.

Picture: University of Sydney

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

But why toilet paper? Productive ways to manage COVID-19 anxiety

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More blood donors needed L

ifeblood is calling on eligible Australians to become blood donors and for existing donors to make and honour their appointments to prevent a potential shortage of blood supplies.

Some 14,000 donors are needed to make an appointment over the next few weeks, including the Easter long weekend, to bolster supplies. The Easter period is a time when many regular donors take a break, but the need for blood never stops.

Lifeblood Chief Executive Shelly Park said the organisation was also preparing for the annual cold and flu season, and said the emergence of the novel coronavirus could put the nation’s blood supply under pressure should existing donors become unavailable and regular donations become disrupted. Temporary fasttracking of elective surgeries could also increase the demand on blood supplies.

“At the start of 2020, we saw a phenomenal response from donors, who came forward and rolled up their sleeves as a way to help with the nation’s bushfire response.

“However, those generous donors now have to wait 12 weeks before they are able to donate again. This means there are now fewer people able to

donate over the coming weeks. Last minute cancellations are also putting a dent in blood stocks at a time when donors are in urgent need. As we all know, there is no substitute for blood.

It is a critical resource, and right now, we need more people booking appointments to donate.

“Blood is needed every day by Australian patients including road trauma patients, surgical patients, medical and orthopaedic patients, pregnant mums and cancer patients.”

Lifeblood wants to reassure donors

and the community that there is no evidence coronavirus is transmittable by blood transfusion.

Ms Park said: “The organisation has robust processes in place to ensure the safety of the blood supply and our donors, and we don’t allow people who are unwell to donate blood. Our donor centres are safe places to visit and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that stays the case.

“To ensure there is a sufficient blood supply, we are appealing to donors to keep their appointments if well and

healthy and are inviting new donors or those who haven’t donated for a while to come forward to help us.”

There are currently 500,000 Australians who donate blood, but millions more who may be eligible to donate.

Ms Park said: “Every week across Australia, we need to collect around 29,000 blood and plasma donations.

“Right now, we have 14,000 appointments that need to be filled over the next few weeks as we work to continue providing life-saving blood and blood products to Australian patients as we head into the busy Easter period. It only takes an hour to give blood, but could be the life-changing gift to help someone celebrate next Easter at home with their loved-ones.

“If you are a donor and haven’t made your next appointment, you can help us be prepared by booking one in the next few weeks as we approach the Easter period. And if you have never donated before, now is a great time to become a donor and help us maintain the nation’s blood supplies. This is your opportunity to give the gift of life to another,” Ms Park added.

To make an appointment to give blood, visit lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.

Volunteers support our great hospitals Volunteers perform countless tasks that add that extra special touch to a patient’s journey. They form part of an invaluable resource, making a significant contribution to the ability of Western Sydney Local Health District hospitals to meet an ongoing

commitment of keeping people healthy.

Hundreds of hard working volunteers devote their time and talents to serve and assist staff, patients and visitors. By engaging in patient and client activities, volunteers are a link

between the clinical and the nursing services, and together, form a holistic approach to the quality health care that people need.

Volunteers do this through the provision of support services directly to patients, clients and members of the

community and through fundraising for special equipment purchases. There are also pastoral workers and visitors who provide spiritual comfort to those in need and community groups who visit on special occasions throughout the year.

Draw Thursday 9 April from 6.30pm

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hen the day’s to-do list is too long many people end up sacrificing sleep to get more done.

But how much can we miss before sleeplessness takes its toll?

Westmead Hospital sleep specialist Dr Jin Gun Cho said sleep not only helps our bodies, but our minds too.

“The amount of sleep needed per person varies, but in general we recommend having eight hours each night,” Dr Cho said.

“Sleep deprivation means you aren’t getting the adequate amount of sleep that you require for your body to function properly.

“People who have less sleep tend to have a greatly reduced mental function, meaning they are more prone to accidents and making mistakes.”

Dr Cho said the small things can make a big difference, and offered these tips for a better night’s sleep: • Have a regular bed time and a regular wake time • Avoid alcohol late at night • Exercise during the day • Avoid screens late at night and in bed (including Netflix, emails and social media) Dr Cho works in the Westmead Hospital Sleep Clinic, which helps patients with conditions

Westmead Hospital Sleep Clinic scientific officer Steve Mai.

including sleep disorder breathing, obstructive sleep apnoea, insomnia and excessive sleepiness.

But if you struggle to fall asleep at night, it may not be a medical condition robbing you of those precious z’s.

Dr Cho said busier lifestyles and modern technology – especially smartphones – are to blame for increasing rates of sleep deprivation.

“The younger generation in particular are getting less sleep. It’s hard for a lot of people, not only the millennials, but try and avoid using technology and smart phones late at night,” he said.

Dr Cho said if you are worried about your sleep pattern, seeing a GP is the best place to start.

For more information about the Westmead Hospital Sleep Clinic, call (02) 8890 6797.

Embrace the tranquility at Blacktown Hospital

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towering new sculpture, inspired by the Sydney Red

Gum, brings calmness to Blacktown Hospital.

The hypnotic motion of the sixmetre high steel tree sculpture, featuring coloured Perspex leaves, brings a tranquil energy to the western entry of the hospital.

Created by Darug artist Leanne Tobin and artist Alex Sanson, ‘Djalgala Yarra’, or ‘Tree Embrace’, was inspired by the shape, colour and history of the Angophora Costata.

Also known as the Sydney Red Gum or Smooth-barked Apple Gum, this tree is local to Blacktown.

Artist Leanne Tobin explains the symbolism of the angophora to local Aboriginal people.

“The Smooth-barked Apple Gum is seen by many local Aboriginal people as a women’s tree, with its wide opening arms, its majestic presence and human-like folds and form,” said Alex.

“The Angophora tree form alludes comfort and nurturing with her strong trunk and wide-spreading arms and these qualities reflect the hospital and its role as support and provider of comfort and care to those that come here.

“The red sap of the Angophora is a medicine, used traditionally as a treatment for stomach ailments and as an astringent.”

Artist Alex Sanson explains the healing energy of the sculpture.

“It is inspired by meditative breathing with a hypnotic motion that gently breathes, folding and unfolding as branches and leaves intersect, combine and dissolve in an endless

Djalgala Yarra inspired by the shape, colour and history of the Angophora Costata.

and effortless cycle,” Alex said.

“The tall central trunk houses the mechanism and supports the moving branches high overhead.

“The slowly reciprocating mechanism links via pushrods to the branches to create a movement mesmerizing and energetic, contemplative and euphoric, and above all intended to generate a sense of captivating wonder.

“The sun projects beautiful kaleidoscopic patterns on the ground through the leaf shaped patterns cut into the surfaces of the branches and these patterns move as the sculpture moves and also with the tracking of the sun through the sky.

“A similar kaleidoscopic effect is visible as one gazes into the air up

through the tree top.”

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals Expansion Project Manager Robyn Campbell, said artists like Leanne and Alex are working with staff and the local community as part of our BMDH Arts and Culture Program.

“The hospital is coming to life with abundant art featured around the facility. The works help to inspire, calm and engage patients and visitors,” said Ms Campbell.

“Djalgala Yarra greets people as they come up the broad tree-lined walkway from Marcel Crescent, into a new entry plaza which will replace the existing ambulance bay area.

“The sculpture has been created in such a way as to give the feeling of movement and breath, adding colour

and interest to the main entry.

“This is particularly important as people approaching the hospital can be quite anxious, so a soothing and distracting element at the main entry will help to make people feel calmer and more welcome.”

The Arts and Culture Program has been delivered as part of the $700 million Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals Expansion Project.

Selected by the BMDH Arts Committee, Djalgala Yarra, was chosen by the team whichincludes hospital staff, patients, community members and specialist arts consultants from the Health and Arts Research Centre.

“Our arts and culture program reflects the diversity and aspirations of our community,” Ms Campbell said.

“The artworks were selected by the people who will work, visit and have treatment here, and the works are important to them because of the benefits they bring to patients and their families.”

A recent study by the British Medical Association (BMA) found that art creates ‘a therapeutic healthcare environment’.

The BMA found that arts and humanities programs have been shown to have a positive effect on inpatients including shortening the length of hospital stay, promoting better doctorpatient relationships and improving mental health care.

For more information about Kaleidoscope, the BMDH Arts and Culture Program, visit http://www. bmdhproject.health.nsw.gov.au/ WWW_Blacktown/media/Media/ Images/Arts/Kaleidoscope-BMDHArts-Program-update2.pdf

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

Tired of being tired? What to do if you’re not getting enough sleep

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

Bread, not bags Can we dock here? St Lucia, Caribbean

Out in the Pacific - Galapagos

By BEN CRANNEY

‘I don’t think I could spend two weeks with you.’ So said a colleague to her boyfriend a couple of nights ago, while discussing the prospect of a Coronavirus isolation or lockdown period. Some have no choice who they are stuck with, like my brother-inlaw. He’s trapped on a yacht, unable to find a port in Central America that will allow them to dock. He’s not too worried at the moment, and reckons he’s safer in the middle of the Pacific. He’s probably right, and he’s definitely got more toilet paper than most of us, but imagine that uncertainty of not knowing when you might step foot on land again. Or my

aunt, who was in lockdown in Italy, but managed to get a flight out, and is now in isolation. Her only visitors are little men in hazmat suits, who run up to the door, drop off coronavirus test kits, and run away.

Travelling is meant to make you feel alive and free. At the moment, it’s probably making people feel anxious instead, as they wait for a call from their travel agent to see if the trip is cancelled, or their work says ‘if you go, we won’t pay you during your two week quarantine, unless you take leave’. In fact, travelling must be a long way from people’s minds at the moment, especially when you consider reports of bread being stolen from shopping trollies,

while handbags stayed safe. There are bigger things to think about.

I’m meant to be going to Bali for a week in July. I’ve never been, and I’m desperate to go. I feel like you almost can’t call yourself Australian unless you’ve visited. Thankfully, we booked refundable accommodation, and changeable flights. I really hope I can go, not just so I can call myself Australian, but because it’s such an important industry there. If people stop going, people lose their livelihoods.

But it’s the same in Australia.

People can’t really come here at the moment, so many industries will lose customers and a crust. And with the health warnings, you’ve got to put your own community first over a desire for going overseas. So unless things get worse, I think I’ll be taking a driving holiday around NSW instead. It has the added bonus of supporting drought and bushfire hit places.

Of course, by the time this is published, things could well be

Can’t dock here - Statue of Liberty

worse, and I might be stuck in my 50 square meter home with a wannabe toddler. At that point, I might learn you can have all the adventures you need without going anywhere.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel You Must be Joking

T

hinking back over the columns I have written over the last four years, I realised that I had written about the higher self and love of the spirit world, the dependability of the spirit world, the unbidden help and succour of the spirit world and also about the dark side of the spirit world, but I’m not sure if I have written about the impish and mischievous aspect of those who have gone before. Does that sense of playfulness and teasing leave us when we pass over or does it stay with us to amuse but often annoy those left behind?

One example of this behaviour is moving things around. Yes, I know. As we get older, we put things down and can’t remember where we have put them, but sometimes it is rather more than that. Many years ago, I had an eye operation and the surgeon decided to put a new lens in at the same time. Now up until then I had enjoyed great eyesight as one eye was very long sighted and the other short sighted.

This meant that whatever I was doing, be it driving, watching TV or reading, the stronger eye for that particular task took over. However, when the good doctor replaced the lens, he put the wrong one in and I couldn’t really see to read without growing extra long arms. While I was waiting for my new glasses, I had to remove one lens from the old pair so I could see to read.

One day my daughter and I were in a guest room putting together a flat-pack wardrobe. I put my specs on the bed for a moment whilst I wrestled

with a screwdriver. I turned round to get them but they had totally disappeared. Gone. Vanished.

Lulu and I searched high and low. We turned the room upside down, even taking the mattress off the bed in case those errant specs had somehow climbed down, got under the bedcover and scuttled back up to hide under the mattress. We searched the rest of the house. No luck there either.

I called my best friend, Joy. “I’ve lost my specs,” I wailed. “Have you checked on your head,” she said. “Yes” I replied. “First place I looked.” “Have you looked in the fridge?” she asked somewhat bizarrely. Equally bizarrely I answered, “Yes. Of course.”

The glasses remained missing. By this time

I was going a little crazy because I couldn’t read anything which for me is total torture. Eventually Lulu had had enough. She stormed into the guest room. “This has been going on for long enough,” she yelled. “I am sure you think this is very funny, but give her her glasses back.” She turned round to the face the bed. There, right in the middle of the counterpane were the glasses! Joke over.

My friend Mike used to lose things constantly but instead of asking St Anthony or whoever, he used to call me. One day he rang in a panic. He was organising a pro-am tennis tournament and had lost his star raffle prize of tickets to a Rolling Stones concert. Psychically, where did I think they were?

Now Mike’s flat was a disaster area. Every surface was covered with bits of paper or newspapers. I thought hard. “Mike, I haven’t a clue” I said, “but they are under something heavy. Ten minutes later he rang me back. “Found them. I was sitting on them”.

So if things mysteriously disappear and turn up somewhere completely different, or if they vanish from their usual place to reappear again a couple of days later, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are getting a bit senile. It might just be that the spirit world is having a little joke with you, so if you don’t really see the funny side of it, just ask them nicely to top messing around and give your specs back.

The Unintentional Medium is available online or from any good book store.

Western News

local news

H

AWKESBURY Living’s $13 million luxury aged care extension heralds a new era for quality standards in aged care in the Hawkesbury, CEO Kimberley Talbot announced when the facility opened last year.

Since then Rivera Place has had a 90 per cent occupancy rate providing a focus on personalised care to residents.

Hawkesbury Living has also already repaid $5 million of the loan for the construction whilst at the same time investing heavily in compliance to ensure all new aged care standards are fulfilled. $500,000 has been invested in hiring expert aged care consultants to review 82 policies that Hawkesbury Living comply with so that residents are provided with world class care including high quality food.

When Rivera Place, opened last year 2019, Ms Talbot, said this was the fourth major extension to the site.

“This three-storey heritage-inspired building fronts March Street and historic Richmond Park, with views to the Blue Mountains,” she said.

“The purpose-built contemporary living design has a 4 ½ star fit-out to deliver the best facilities, care and lifestyle choices for our seniors.”

Rivera Place’s affordable superior services feature: • 18x 39-square suites; 7x 29-square single suites; all have ensuites • Single and optional two-bed companion suites • Bar fridges in most rooms, internet corners • Personal phones, TVs • Kitchenettes with unlimited access to tea and coffee making on each level • Open alfresco areas with lounges and dining rooms on each level • Stunning resort-style fittings and fixtures • Function room areas for family celebrations • Sweeping outdoor verandahs, landscaped gardens • The latest inpatient lifters to reduce skin damage or falls • Maggie Beer inspired food menus; 5 star chef service • New Burlodge Food delivery system installed throughout the entire site • Courtesy bus connects our residents with club services – bingo, social trips Since the opening of Rivera Place the existing entrance to Hawkesbury Living has been outfitted with a new, welcoming reception area and

a comfortable coffee shop featuring barista coffees, teas and delicious treats. The Magnolia Suites in the original building have also been renovated.

Ms Talbot said the design of Rivera Place was inspired by our returned servicemen, especially those from the Somme Valley. ​​​“From the front door right through the complex, down to the hand-picked fixtures and ornaments, we celebrate our elder generations, and remember those who served for our country,” she said.

“Rivera Place is designed for specialist care for those with complex or multiple behavioural and memory conditions, such as depression, alcoholism, post traumatic stress, dementia and the needs of returned servicemen and women. Our mantra is “Trust In Care” and that’s our promise.”

Rivera Place also has ancillary services, creating a hub for the community, improving social inclusion for residents and keeping them connected in the community. It links directly with the Richmond Club and Richmond Golf Club’s schedule of events and activities.

To ensure the safety of residents

during this Coronavirus period the Richmond Club has dedicated a meeting room for face to face meetings at the club rather than the aged care facility itself and also has video to show the facilities at Hawkesbury Living without the need to physically walk through the aged care precinct.

Richmond Club has also increased resources substantially in the cleaning of public areas at the Club to make hygiene a top priority during this time of Coronavirus.

For more information contact Hawkesbury Living on 4578 2966 or www.riveraplace.com.

$2.3 Billion health boost and economic stimulus

T

he NSW Government this week announced a major $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package to protect the community and help protect jobs in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak over the next six months.

This package has two key components: $700 million in extra health funding and $1.6 billion in tax cuts to support jobs.

Key elements of the NSW COVID-19 package announced today include: Health boost $700 million extra funding for NSW Health. This will assist in doubling ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID-19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment, establishing acute respiratory clinics and bringing forward elective surgeries to private hospitals; Business support and jobs

• $450 million for the waiver of payroll tax for businesses with payrolls of up to $10 million for three months (the rest of 2019-20). This means these businesses will save a quarter of their annual payroll tax bill in 2019-20.

• $56 million to bring forward the next round of payroll tax cuts by raising the threshold limit to $1 million in 2020-21; • $80 million to waive a range of fees and charges for small businesses including bars, cafes, restaurants and tradies; • $250 million to employ additional cleaners of public infrastructure such as transport assets, schools and other public buildings; • More than $250 million to bring forward maintenance on public assets including social housing and crown land fencing; • $500 million to bring forward capital works and maintenance.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said

the NSW Government’s package bolstered the health system, cuts taxes for business that employed tens of thousands of people across the State, and would help secure jobs at a very challenging time.

“Our first priority is always the health of the people of this State and looking after their families and jobs,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This package works hand-in-hand with the recent moves by the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Federal Government. It will provide more resources to help slow the spread of this virus and boost treatment for those people in our community who need it most.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW package would help businesses struggling with a once-in-ageneration event.

“The Government stands ready to do whatever it takes to keep people safe and ensure our economy withstands

this storm,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Today we are injecting $700 million into the health system and almost $1.6 billion to boost business.

In simple terms, this money will help save the lives of loved ones and protect jobs.

“We are supporting business by lowering their costs through tax cuts and fee reductions, and working to boost jobs by funding ready-to-go capital work and maintenance projects as a priority.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the Government was doing whatever it took to support front line health workers, and urged people to follow important safety messages.

“Our health workers are doing an amazing job,” Mr Hazzard said.

“This extra funding backs the work of our doctors, nurses, allied health staff, ambulance officers and support staff in the fight to prevent the spread of and prepare for COVID-19.”

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

Hawkesbury Living aged care continues to shine

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Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

They Called Him “Toby”

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

J

ames Tobias Ryan was born at Birds Eye Corner, Castlereagh in 1818.

His father John Michael Tobin Ryan was convicted at Middlesex in July 1814 and transported for life to Australia on the “Indefatigable 2”. He married Mary Rope at Castlereagh in 1816. Mary who was baptised in July 1791 was a daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth Rope (Nee: Pulley) who came as convicts in the First Fleet. They were also my 4th Great Grandparents from Mary’s sister Susannah Bradley (Nee: Rope). Toby was a pupil of Reverend Fulton’s school at Castlereagh. At the age of 20 Toby married Mary Ann Dempsey born at Windsor in 1817.

Her father John came as a convict on the “Atlas”, her mother Ann came free on the “Experiment”. In 1840 Toby was working as a Sussex Street auctioneer and a carcass butcher with his own business. He was one of the first in this endeavour and he was also one of the earliest pastoralists, owning several stations on the Lachlan River. In 1852 he built his home “Emu Hall” at Emu Plains on the west bank of the Nepean River. At that time there was a punt over the river from the eastern side to the western side, but Toby and others decided that a bridge needed to be built so in 1855 the first bridge was built but was washed away in a flood. They persevered, and another bridge was built that was also washed away but finally paid off when the iron Victoria Bridge we have today was built in 1862. Toby’s home Emu Hall is still standing. In 1857 he was initiated into the Freemasonry Lodge in Sydney and later became the first Worshipful Master of the newly founded Queen’s Lodge 982 in Penrith.

In January 1860, a pigeon match was held at Wascoe’s Inn at Lapstone Hill. (This inn was originally called the “Pilgrim Inn” that continued to operate as an Inn until 1852 and the last licence was held by John Outrim Wascoe who bought the Inn in 1857 and changed the name, and by 1869 the Inn was advertised for sale again.) The pigeon match arrangement was for a small stake with the lunch to be paid by the losers. Despite the bad road the attendance was a numerous one. Toby and his opponent Henry Matthews tossed for choice of sides and Toby won the toss and picked Mr G Sharp and John Ryan. Henry Matthews picked Thomas Jamison and Dr Haylock. Nine pigeons each was arranged for the shoot with a thirty-yard rise. Toby led off missing his first bird and Henry Matthews followed and killed his bird, The score showed the result of Henry Matthews’ side winning by two birds. The shooting was very good considering the long rise and particularly Thomas Jamison, and it was said that Toby is not so good in general matches, but man-to-man he has never been beaten. The lunch provided by John Wascoe was excellent and enjoyed by all. In December 1860 until February 1872, Toby became a Member for Nepean in the NSW Legislative Assembly Parliament. But not all the public thought kindly of him when a letter from a Mr J SMITH at Congewoi Point on the Lower Hawkesbury appeared in the Sydney Mail newspaper in 1862 who wrote - “I was over at Penrith the other day and got yarning with several of the Penrith chaps and says I to one of ‘em, Ain’t you everlastingly ashamed of that Toby Ryan as you’ve sent into the Parliament House to be your member?” ‘I’ll tell you Smith,” he says We know him just as well as you and we know he couldn’t escape as we’re bound to have free selection and Bob Jamieson wouldn’t knuckle down and so there we were, and that’s the way they’re gone and got on.

Any chap had only to get up and say, “Here I am, I’m for free selection!” and that made him fit for our member. I only wish some of these precious electors would go and have a week in the Assembly so they wouldn’t be ashamed of themselves for what they’d been and done, they wouldn’t be ashamed at nothing”. Just look at Cunneen! (James Augustine Cunneen) Why, when he gets up to speak and before he says a word you can see

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that he’s not a wise man. Then there’s Toby Ryan he’s about the very opposite to Cunneen. He does talks in the Parliament exactly the same as he talks everywhere else and a precious queer lot of stuff it is, and he don’t make use of no big words for a good reason that he doesn’t know none.

One thing in his favour is that he doesn’t trouble ‘em often, and when he does do it, he doesn’t keep long at it. It’s only when his love of fair play or as he calls it “common fairity,” draws him out as he ventures to have a go in. He ain’t brilliant by no means and says some of the rummest things as ever you heard and goes on hammering away at ‘em no matter how much the other chaps may laugh. He ain’t useful to anybody but Cowper and Co. (Charles Cowper Jnr) for he always votes on their side and Toby ain’t ornamental neither for he’s no beauty by no means with his snub nose, round pudding face, high cheek bones, low forehead and heavy overhanging brows. He’s a fine stout well-built chap just one of the main strengths and stupidness sort as I spoke about before and is just a slashing bullock-driver spoilt by being shoved into Parliament and made a legislator. He’d a driven a team of bullocks first rate and might ha’ been a useful member of society in that berth but sitting in the State coach he’s only a twentieth rater and won’t never be anything but a useless member of Parliament and only keeps a better man out of the seat. But I’ve said more about him than he’s worth. To tell you the truth I didn’t mean to say anything at all about him only that I run off my track a bit”. Toby became a great racehorse enthusiast and owned some of the best. One called “Traveller” was an excellent winner for Toby, winning 21 races out of 23. Another called “Vanguard” won a race where Toby was paid in nuggets of gold. In 1864 Mary died at the age of 46 and Toby later married Sarah Hadley aged 28 years old. In 1879 he became the licensee of the Crown Hotel in George Street, Sydney but by 1885 he was declared bankrupt. He died of pleurisy at his home at Woolloomooloo Street on the 17th October, 1899 and his body was brought back to Emu Plains by the 11.30 train to be buried in the family vault at St Pauls Church Cemetery where he was an officer and member. Mrs John Price & Son had charge of the funeral. Photo of Toby with one of his racehorse’s courtesy of Ben Hobby.

Sources - Bell’s Life in Sydney and Sporting Reviewer, Sydney Mail, Goulburn Herald, Family Search (Mormon Website), Nepean Times & Reminiscences of Australia by “Toby” James T Ryan .

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ENTERTAINMENT

INSTRUCTIONS

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

SUDOKU: EASY

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

SUDOKU: EASY

13

SOLUTIONS: 6 March EASY

medium

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) 4 Wholly absorbed in thought (9) 5 Door on a ship (5) 6 Burdened (7) 7 Female organ (5) 8 Desired strongly (7) 14 Reductions in price (9) 16 Homesick (9) 17 Land reclaimed from the sea (7) 18 They decide what goes in a magazine (7) 20 The death penalty (7) 21 Chest of drawers (7) 23 Jumped (5) 24 Spread out (5)

solution 6/3/20

Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

14

REAL ESTATE

Western News

How a vehicle fleet upgrade can propel small business growth Alex Soncini

N

ew year, new opportunities.

This is the perfect time to reflect on your business achievements so far, with a view to the future and whether it’s time to stimulate your business growth with some new tools.

You’ve probably spent time cultivating your existing customers, developing new products and services and targeting new markets. But perhaps something is still holding you back from the progress you know you can achieve.

Is your vehicle fleet too small or too outdated for your current operations, let alone your plans for the future?

Six signs it’s time to expand or upgrade your fleet Don’t be held back by the state of your vehicle fleet. It needs to be a true reflection of your enterprise – dynamic, productive, contemporary and more than fit for purpose. Do any of these apply to you?

1. You can’t keep up with current deliveries or service calls A backlog of order deliveries or customers waiting too long for service is a sure indicator of a fleet that’s either too small or not suitable for the job. Don’t risk losing clients just because your fleet is letting you down.

2. You’re missing out on new business opportunities Even in the era of business conducted online, there’s nothing like the personal touch and sealing sales deals face-to face. If your salespeople are hampered because vehicles aren’t

available, your growth may take a hit.

3. Vehicles are more than five years old.

While your new vehicles were still under warranty you had some assurance that if something went wrong it was someone else’s job to fix it. But now that they’re more than five years old it’s your problem, resulting in higher costs and risks. Replacing them makes good business sense.

4. Vehicles have travelled more than 100,000 kilometres Even if a vehicle is less than five years old, if it has more than 100,000 km on the clock it’s inevitably going to start costing more to maintain.

5. Bumps and dents spell brand damage Do your vehicles look unloved, in spite of the fact that they carry your branding as a form of mobile advertisement? Too many dents and

scratches will see your image taking a beating too, not to mention the safety risks of some impact damage that is more than cosmetic.

6. Outdated safety features Protect your team with the latest safety technology – like active braking assist, auto emergency braking, and lane departure alerts – fitted as standard in many new vehicles.

Vehicle financing options to suit your business Fleet financing options mean that you don’t need to tie up your working capital by purchasing new vehicles outright. You can choose one or more of these financing plans to suit your business needs.

• Finance lease Similar to a hire purchase agreement, but without the obligation to purchase. At the end of the lease you can choose to either pay the residual

@wealthwiz

value and purchase the vehicle, or return it to the finance provider.

• Chattel mortgage Also known as a Specific Security Agreement, this option sees the lender advancing loan funds for purchasing the vehicle, and taking a charge over the vehicle as security for the loan until it is repaid.

Lower your emissions and your costs at the same time Small businesses can access a discount of up to 0.7% on their finance rate by choosing electric or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles for their fleet. Ask about the details of this partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

Get some advice and discuss your options Wealthwiz has joined the one of Australia’s leading asset finance services providers. We can provide advice about the benefits and any possible drawbacks of the various vehicle financing options. You may want to discuss the tax advantages with your accountant.

Make 2020 the year you grow your business by expanding or updating your fleet, while freeing up your working capital to drive further progress.

The first step towards finding business finance is calling Alex on 0419 600 177. * The data, information and commentary provided in this publication is provided by Platform Finance and is of a general nature and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the relevant contributors and should not be construed as specific advice or relied upon in lieu of appropriate professional advice.

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Western News

SPORT

15 Western News 20 March 2020 Issue 105

T

he Red & Black tried their hardest and kept fighting to the end but were no match for a quality City side that now advances to next week’s grand final.

It was a tough way to finish what was a historic season for Dean Heffernan’s team, but they can walk away with their heads held high after qualifying for the W-League Semi Finals first time in the club’s history.

The Wanderers started the game strongly enough, pressing and working hard to shut down the City attack while trying to pressure their defence.

But, with former Wanderer Ellie Carpenter causing problems down the right side it was City who took the lead on 13 minutes.

Carpenter’s cross found Claire Emslie who poked the ball home from close range.

The home side doubled the lead just nine minutes later with Emslie turning provider with a cross for Kyah Simon to head home.

Despite the scoreline, the Wanderers did no drop their heads. They continued to try to take the game to City, though they had a let-off when Carpenter smashed a shot against the crossbar on 29 minutes.

The Wanderers could have had a penalty after Cortnee Vine attempted to get around her marker in the area. She was certainly clipped but did not fall to the ground.

City then made it 3-0 when Rebekah Stott scored in the 41st minute.

Again, the Red & Black refused to lay down with Kristen Hamilton producing some nice work to provide Vine with a chance but she could not get great power behind her shot and it was easily saved by the keeper.

The Wanderers were given a lifeline six minutes into the second half when Hamilton set up Vine, who turned a curling shot into the net to make it 3-1.

But, two goals in the space six minutes saw the Premier’s shoot out to an unassailable 5-1 lead and there was nothing the Wanderers could do.

NSW/ACT PGA Trainee Graduation Correction

Local clubs advance to playoffs in Major Pennants Golf

Ashley Cramond and PGA Life Member Geoff Scott. Photo provided by PGA NSW.

We wrote an article last issue congratulating four local Golf Trainees upong their Graduation.

We inadvertently spelt the surname for Ashley Cramond (Stonecutters Ridge) incorrectly and apologise for the error.

Ashley played her junior golf in Warwickshire, England before moving

to Australia as a 16-year old.

She said “The highlights (of my traineeship) have been playing heaps of other golf courses, meeting so many new people through Stonecutters Ridge GC and the traineeship, everything I’ve learned and also when starting to coach.”

“I’m staying on at Stonecutters to work as a Teaching Professional.”

Three golf clubs from the Western Sydney region have qualified for the playoff stage in the 2020 Major Pennant competition, which completed the preliminary rounds on Sunday.

Penrith GC have finished 1st in Division 2, Section 1; Twin Creeks CC 1st in Division 2, Section 2 and Springwood CC 1st in Division 3, Section 4.

Leonay GC made a bold final round bid for top spot in Division 4, Section 4, defeating front-runners Randwick on Sunday but ultimately falling 0.5 points behind in a countback on the season’s full results.

The draw for the playoffs will be published later this week and all 3 local clubs will be hoping to at least reach the Final (if not win) in their division, in order to move up one division in 2021.

Full results from the final round are: Penrith GC down 2.5-4.5 to Cromer GC, Springwood CC 4-3 over Dunheved GC, Twin Creeks 5.5-1.5 over Killara GC, Leonay GC 4.5-2.5 over Randwick GC, Windsor CC 4-3 over Warringah GC, Fox Hills GC 4-3 over The Lakes GC, Glenmore Heritage Valley GC drew 3.5-3.5 with Oatlands GC, Richmond GC down 4.52.5 to Cabramatta GC, Stonecutters Ridge GC down 4-3 to North Ryde, Wallacia CC down 1.5-5.5 to Cammeray GC. Major Pennant Semi-Final draw just released.

Division 2: Twin Creeks CC play North Ryde GC at 10:12am and Penrith GC play Oatlands GC at 11.08am - both games held at Riverside Oaks GC. Division 3: Springwood CC play Cumberland GC at 1:00pm, also at Riverside Oaks CC. Division 4: Wallacia CC play an elimination match against Palm Beach GC at 11:36am at Rosnay GC for relegation to Division 5.

Western News Friday, 20 March 2020

SPORT

Crichton: A star is born

By MARK GEYER

W

hile the world is dealing with the coronavirus pandemic it’s hard to really think or talk about anything else, such is the magnitude of the situation, but alas I will.

There was a round of rugby league last weekend and it produced some amazing feats of skill and effort that has been left in the shadows.

Let’s go through the round in case you missed any of the NRL action.

The Eels and Dogs played out a dour 8 points to 2 victory to the Eels a week ago.

The Eels attack was clunky but their defence stiff, and while the Bulldogs’ off field dramas obviously affected them, they still managed to put up a good showing.

Last Friday night’s games saw the Raiders overcome the Titans 24-6 with Jack Wighton starring. The Cowboys and Broncos played at the brand new stadium in Townsville

“A star is born” Stephen Crichton after last weeks 15 second try

with the Broncos, on the back of a thundering 70 metre solo try to Dave Fifita winning 28-21.

The Knights blew away the hapless Warriors also last Saturday 20-0, the

Rabbitohs beat the Sharks 22-18 with Latrell Mitchell only playing 55 mins due to a planned substitution by coach Wayne Bennett.

Panthers upset last year’s premiers

the Roosters 20-14. Down 12-0 after 21 mins, the Panthers shock weapon off the bench Billy Kikau came on and changed everything, scoring the winning try.

But it was a new recruit and a rookie that most were taking about post game. Api Koroisau was man of the match while young sensation Stephen Crichton scored within 15 secs of taking the field ensuing a league super star was born.

Last Sunday there were two games.

The Storm beat their new arch rivals Manly 18-4, while the Tigers beat the Dragons 24-14, with Benji ‘the magician’ turning back the clock at 35 years young and starring for the Tigers with a try, 2 try assists, and 4 goals to claim man of the round honours.

Who knows what round 2 has in store for us all but whatever happens make sure you and your loved ones are safe, you all practice healthy cleanliness and you make sure you self isolate if you’re not feeling 100%.

I’ll see you at the game (eventually) x

MG (random Westie) OAM