Western News 26 June 2020

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Friday, 26 June 2020

ISSUE 112

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Helping Hand

In January this year, Council committed to do whatever it could to assist the councils and communities that were devastated by the bushfires. See page 15 for full story.

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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Western News

Grants to help small business reopen

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housands of small businesses reopening across the State after the COVID-19 shutdown will benefit from funding of up to $3,000 under a new Small Business Recovery Grant.

Applications open on 1 July to help businesses safely relaunch their operations with funds remaining from the $750 million Small Business Support Fund. NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet announced the new recovery grants today after delivering an economic update to the NSW Parliament as the Government moves from response to a “Recovery and Reform” footing.

“Our collective prosperity has always been built on hard work, and creating jobs is the number one priority of the NSW Government,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Today we signal to the people of NSW a shift in direction, from response to recovery. It’s time to get the show back on the road. Keeping people in jobs and businesses in business is at the heart of everything we are doing.”

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the new grants signalled a move from business survival to business revival.

“The existing grant program has proven very popular, with around 35,000 businesses receiving relief to cover expenses such as rates and phone bills,” Mr Dominello said.

“Applying for this new grant will be simple and easy, so businesses can focus on reopening safely and welcoming back customers.”

The $10,000 Small Business Support Grant closes on 30 June and so far more than 49,700 businesses

have applied for the grants worth more than $490 million.

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the new grants would help businesses turn their lights on, open their doors and welcome back customers and clients.

“We are getting NSW back to business by helping entrepreneurs and mum and dad owners to relaunch and revitalise their businesses,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The grants can be used to cover marketing and advertising expenses, make fit-out changes and train staff in how to work safely under the current health conditions.

“Small business owners can also get advice from Business Connect advisors to help them innovate, pivot or take advantage of opportunities in the market.

“We know when we support small business, we create jobs and we support our broader economy.”

The Small Business Recovery Grant can only be used for expenses from 1 July and where no other

Government support is available. More information will be made available on the Service NSW website closer to the launch.

Eligible businesses and not-for-profits must meet a range of criteria including: • Australian Business Number as at 1 March 2020 registered in NSW; • Have total Australian wages below the NSW Government 2019-20 payroll tax threshold of $900,000 as at 1 March 2020; • Have fewer than 20 Full Time Equivalent staff (including non-employing businesses) as at 1 March 2020; • Have an annual turnover of more than $75,000 as at 1 March 2020; • Have experienced a decline in turnover of at least 30 per cent from March to July 2020 compared to the equivalent period (of at least two weeks) in 2019; • Are in a highly impacted industry as at 1 March 2020. These industries were impacted by the COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement Order 2020; • Have costs from 1 July 2020 associated with safely re-opening or scaling up their business.

Small business affected by drought or natural disaster or not in operation 12 months ago, but that commenced operations prior to 1 March have alternative time ranges for comparing the decline to turnover to turnover.

Service NSW will launch the Small Business Recovery Grant online on 1 July and will accept application until Sunday 16 August 2020 when the program will close.

Heartfelt tribute to valued volunteers

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rom hand massages to driving patients around, more than 300 volunteers dedicate their time and energy to support patients, families, carers and staff across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Mount Druitt Hospital Palliative Care volunteer manager Kylie Clark said volunteers make a big difference to patients and their families.

“Our volunteers are amazing and assist with a myriad of tasks that help make the patients’ stay or visit more comfortable,” Kylie said.

“They also help visitors and patients navigate their way through our hospitals and provide a welcoming smile and greeting.”

Westmead Hospital Corporate Services manager Renata Melan is new to her role and unfortunately has not yet met most of the volunteers due to the pandemic, but has many years’ experience working with health volunteers in other roles.

Renata said she is consistently amazed by their passion and commitment to helping patients, staff and community.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the volunteers personally, obviously once they return to their roles, and I look forward to helping them expand and enhance their services for our patients and communities,” she said.

The volunteers provide services to

Westmead Hospital ED resident Dr Sam Phillips shows his appreciation for volunteers.

the wards and departments including guiding and transporting patients and visitors within the hospital, helping visitors in the Intensive Care Unit, and providing a regular Justice of the Peace service – just to name a few.

Mount Druitt Hospital Palliative Care nurse unit manager Trish Dalgleish said volunteers bring an extra spark to the patients and families.

“Whether it’s giving a hand massage, a cup of tea or a listening ear they have added an extra dimension of care to the families,” Trish said.

“I can’t wait until the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and we have them return to the hospital to provide their invaluable service.”

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital volunteers perform an extensive list of tasks and roles

including running Mount Druitt Hospital kiosk, with all proceeds raised directly going back into the hospital for vital medical equipment, and running the Mount Druitt Hospital Patient Transport service, providing a free service to transport patients to and from medical appointments including Westmead Hospital.

“Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospital patients are regularly treated to a visit by four-legged friends from

the Delta Therapy Dogs and Nepean Therapy Dog who bring smiles and comfort and act as a distraction for some patients,” Kylie added.

“Pastoral Care volunteers visit patients in wards at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals to support their spiritual and emotional needs.”

Other hospital volunteer groups include: The knitters and sewing groups who crochet beanies, blankets, teddies and carry bags for medical devices and patients belongings Cardiac rehabilitation and intensive care volunteers who provide support for those recovering from serious illness Consumer representatives who sit on many committees to ensure the voice of our consumers are heard NSW Cancer Council volunteers who provide support and resources for families and patients during their cancer journey.

For further information about volunteering at our hospitals contact Blacktown or Mount Druitt hospitals or Westmead Hospital.

Blacktown Hospital’s message to volunteers.

Western News

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ducation Minister Sarah Mitchell and Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly visited Schofields as construction of the new primary school on Farmland Drive near Alex Avenue has now started.

Minister Mitchell celebrated the milestone with an official sod turn and said the $54 million school is being built using innovative construction methods.

“We are facing rapid population growth in this part of Sydney, and infrastructure innovation will play a key role in providing future permanent facilities in shorter timeframes, with less disruption to student learning and local residents.

“This school has been constructed in a factory setting and will be assembled in a matter of months. The first components will be delivered to the site by truck in the next few weeks.

“With this construction method, time on site can be reduced by up to 50 per cent,” Ms Mitchell said.

The new school will be ready for the 2021 school year and features 19 permanent classrooms, a school hall, a library, a covered outdoor learning area (COLA) as well as administrative and staff facilities. It will have a capacity for 500 students, and has

been master-planned to accommodate up to 1000 students in the future.

Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly said he was very excited that Alex Avenue families will be able to enjoy a high-quality school delivered in record time using these innovative methods.

“The school will be built before the eyes of this community over the span of a few months.

“This is one of many school infrastructure projects in the Riverstone community. Aside from this new school, three upgrades have already been delivered in the last seven months. The major upgrade at Schofields Public School with 27 new teaching spaces will be completed later this year. And there’s more to come,” Mr Conolly said.

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

The new primary school on Farmland Drive near Alex Avenue was announced in April as part of 48 construction projects in NSW to have its planning assessments fast-tracked and finalised through the Planning System Acceleration Program, aimed at supporting the NSW economy following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Off-site construction methods,

also called Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), is a growing market in Australia as well as overseas for residential infrastructure, schools, hospitals and other public buildings.

Five public schools are part of a DfMA pilot program in NSW, the other four schools being Jordan Springs Public School and the new primary schools in Catherine Field, Leppington and Wagga Wagga.

The NSW Government is investing $6.7 billion over four years to deliver 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.

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

Construction begins on new primary school in Schofields

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ANY tangible things have fallen victim in the push to make everything digital.

COVID-19 has spelled change for many things that would have stayed as they were if it were not a necessity to meet restriction rules. Prior to the pandemic, we probably would not have warmed to the idea of facetime meetings, digital gym sessions or zoom funerals. In fact, I remember not so long ago hearing of the idea of video taping a funeral for those not present on the day and thinking it was more than a little creepy.

But, we’ve adapted to new ways of doing things that we may have been reluctant to try had life stayed “normal.”

I’d like to think not everything has to go digital though, or otherwise we become somewhat robotic don’t we?

We need physical interaction with others, even if it is while standing a metre and a half apart. We need fresh air and to enjoy the beauty of our surroundings, not just getting our exercise while looking at a screen.

And we need our news in the form of a printed paper or magazine just as you’re holding right now. Digital is great as a secondary source, but I don’t think it replaces holding the product in your hand.

Many people say that print media is on its way out, mainly because they see large corporations cease their local publications. I don’t believe it is.

True, advertising dollars aren’t as lucrative as they were years ago, but a local publication such as ours that is community-focused rather than profit-driven will adapt and evolve to ensure they can still bring the local stories to the local people.

If we lost the tangible local paper, we’d lose the ability to get news to those who aren’t internet savvy, and we’d lose the local stories that matter in our community.

TV news isn’t going to run a story about Johnny from Seven Hills who won an award, and its not good for anyone if the great yarn about Jessica from Marsden Park who raises money to help cure brain cancer is sitting behind a pay wall on social media. That’s the reality we face without local publications and that’s why we need to ensure we keep our local news.

As always, thank you for your support - you are the reason that we continue to be.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Western News

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

Driver testing restrictions lifted from 1 July

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river testing will be back at full capacity from 1 July, thanks to easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said all customers would be able to book a driver test online, via phone or in a Service NSW Centre.

“Thanks to the cooperation and discipline of so many people, Service NSW has been able to reintroduce driver testing,” Mr Dominello said.

“Appropriate safeguards will remain in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19, such as disposable seat covers, hand sanitiser and gloves.

Customers will also need to sign a statutory declaration confirming they are well enough to take the test.”

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said drivers and riders who want to progress from P1 to P2 and then on to an unrestricted licence can now do so online.

“Drivers now have a simpler, faster and more COVID-safe way of moving from one licence level to the next,” Mr Constance said.

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“Getting your licence for the first time is a major milestone for a young person, while many others rely on their licence for employment or mobility.”

As driver testing was closed for three months due to COVID-19, Service NSW is expecting a high demand for this service. An additional 50 driver testers have been hired across the state to increase the number of tests available to customers.

There are an estimated 4800 driver tests performed every week. Planning is underway to increase capacity to approximately 6500 tests per week to address the backlog of tests.

For more information on driver testing please visit www.service.nsw. gov.au

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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Riding towards a healthy future

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assionate advocate for healthy children and families and Senior Staff Specialist in Paediatric Endocrinology, Assoc. Prof. Gary Leong loves working with kids and their families to help them enjoy healthier and happier lives.

This passion has seen him put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) to release his first book, ‘Ride to Life’, a no-nonsense guide for families to break the cycle of obesity. In the book, Dr Leong shares his knowledge and experience of the last 30 years, including that gained in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and the Nepean Blue Mountains Family Metabolic Health Service.

Since 2016, Dr Leong has worked as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver the Nepean Blue Mountains Family Metabolic Health Service, Australia’s first public whole of lifespan obesity service. This innovative service for individuals and families faced with the challenges of obesity supports clients to maintain a healthy weight and achieve better health outcomes.

Dr Leong says that despite his work on the frontline, he felt there was more he could do to help kids and families to enjoy healthier lifestyles.

“I put down these stories that I had acquired after

looking after hundreds of families suffering severe obesity in my clinics,” he added.

The book outlines the 2020 Family Health Challenge, a program that encourages families to “ride together” to learn new ways to play, exercise and eat together to make sustainable changes for a

healthier and more active life.

“Using the resources I have created – the book and my website – I hope more families will be able to start their health journey,” says Dr Leong.

To find out more about ‘Ride to Life’ visit www.2020familyhealthchallenge.com

Healthcare workers join trial to combat COVID-19

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ive hundred front line healthcare workers and paramedics in NSW will join an international trial, to discover whether the tuberculosis (TB) vaccine reduces the impact of COVID-19.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said he is delighted the NSW Health Services Union (HSU) is supporting the trial with a $350,000 contribution and that so many health staff are taking part.

“This virus is not going away any time soon, so until we have a proven vaccine, trials like this alongside daily testing and COVID-safe behaviours, are vitally important,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Our front line health workers risk exposure to COVID-19 every day, so the sooner we can find a breakthrough and fingers crossed it is the BCG antiTB vaccine, the better for all of us.”

HSU NSW Secretary Gerard Hayes said the decision to help fund the study

Photo courtesy Getty Images.

was a straightforward one because if the vaccine proves successful, the benefits will be enormous.

“We have to use every tool available to protect our cleaners, security officers, paramedics, therapists and other hospital workers against the severity of COVID which is why we are so enthusiastically supporting this trial,” Mr Hayes said.

“It may seem unusual for us to fund a program such as this, but we

know our duty of care to members extends beyond wages and conditions to include their health and wellbeing.”

Dr Rama Kandasamy, Staff Specialist in Immunisation at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network said the 12 month trial will be rolled out in several hospitals over the coming weeks.

“Workers have already been vaccinated at The Children’s Hospital Westmead and staff at Westmead

Hospital, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Prince of Wales Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital will follow,” Dr Kandasamy said.

“Half the participants will receive the BCG vaccine and the other half will receive a placebo and they will be monitored to see if they contract COVID and the severity of their symptoms.

“This trial sets the scene for us to be at the forefront of COVID-19 specific vaccine trials and the results could be the key to providing at-risk groups early protection.”

The BRACE trial was initially launched by Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI). NSW healthcare workers and paramedics are among 10,000 across Australia along with other countries including Spain and The Netherlands, to participate in the trial. For more information on the BRACE trial, visit www.mcri.edu.au/BRACE.

Win $50 and stop your money going up in smoke

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oung people in Western Sydney are being encouraged to quit smoking and put their creativity to good use in encouraging others to do the same.

The Western Area Adolescent Team (WAAT) at Mount Druitt launched a new quit smoking program on World No Tobacco Day (31 May) and is calling on locals aged 12-25 to create a short video, artwork or meme about the dangers of smoking and the benefits of quitting.

The first 10 entries will receive a $50 gift voucher and all will be shared

on the Youth Health Facebook page.

Michelle, 22, from Mount Druitt is first in line to make a quit smoking attempt.

“I want help to stop smoking because I know it’s not good for me and it’s affecting my lungs. Actually, it’s affecting most of my everyday activities,” Michelle said.

“I’ll be saving a couple of hundred dollars a week. I really want to stop smoking, and I feel like this program will give me lots of support to do that.”

The quit program offers one-onone and group support together with

free nicotine replacement therapy in partnership with Emerton Pharmacy.

WAAT program coordinator Ngaio Chandler said the team makes it as easy as possible to attend, including providing Opal cards for travel.

“The quit program can also be part of a work and development order (WDO) if you’re trying to pay off a fine. We’re hoping these added incentives might help make the difference for some young people because stress, like the stress of a debt, can be a contributing factor for smoking,” Ngaio said.

Register your interest by emailing

at wslhd-waat@health.nsw.gov.au to receive instructions on how to apply.

If you would like to learn more about the Quit Smoking Program, call WAAT on 9881 1230 or pop in during business hours at Buran Close, Mt Druitt.

In 2019-20 the NSW Government is investing $17.3 million on tobacco control programs.

For information, tips and tools to support people to quit visit www. iCanQuit.com.au, call NSW Quitline on 13 7848 or talk to a health care professional.

Western News

local news

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ustralian Catholic University’s (ACU’s) Information Centre on Flushcombe Rd in Blacktown has reopened for the first time since closing due to Covid-19, and the new campus remains on track to open to students in 2021.

ACU and Blacktown City Council announced in March 2019 that the Council had partnered with ACU to open a campus in the heart of western Sydney. A “Heads of Agreement” was signed between the two parties in October last year, and work has since proceeded on a premises at 22 Main Street while a more permanent campus is considered for Warrick Lane.

High school students from Blacktown and other parts of Western Sydney have visited the drop-in information centre or have tuned in to online information sessions and expos. The closure of many public activities due to the impact of covid-19 meant ACU staff turned to technology to deliver updates about courses available and the university has moved its traditional Open Day online.

Western Sydney residents keen to see a university built on their doorstep

have already registered interest in attending the virtual events, which will be held on three Saturdays: 29 August, 5 September and 12 September from 9am-3pm.

ACU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Greg Craven said that becoming a part of the Blacktown community was a significant development for the university.

The new campus will be the first university established in Blacktown, and the ninth ACU campus, which will be of enormous benefit to the 18,000 students from the area.

“ACU is privileged to be associated with, and to serve, the Blacktown

community and the Diocese of Parramatta,” Professor Craven said.

“This agreement is a reflection of the relationships already established between ACU, the Diocese of Parramatta and Blacktown City Council which we are looking forward to strengthening.

“For the first time, young residents of Blacktown will have a university on their doorstop and will not have to travel vast distances to study. Having a campus in the heart of the city’s population centre means closer ties with partners in the area. Our students can learn, seek placements and find employment close to home.”

When ACU opens its doors for the first time in 2021, it will welcome students into four faculties: health sciences, education and arts, law and business, and theology and philosophy.

From time in the classroom to training in the field, ACU is taking university experience to a new level at the Blacktown campus.

As a university with a reputation for excellence in teaching and exceptional support, its students will be part of a small, nurturing community backed by local partnerships and international opportunities.

“It’s a perfect way to build networks in the community where students live, study and will go on to work,” Professor Craven said.

More than 90% of the ACU’s graduates go on to find a job after finishing a degree1, and employers rate them as some of the most valuable in the country2.

Find out more at acu.edu.au/ blacktown 1.

Domestic undergraduate employment rate, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019 2. Undergraduate cohort, Employer Satisfaction Survey 2019

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

Bringing university to the heart of western Sydney

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

Cave art to Rembrandt

By BEN CRANNEY

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often talk about the magic of travelling and the moments that take your breath away. There aren’t too many experiences that truly have that effect, but it happened to me last year in England’s Peak district. I was at the caves at Cresswell Crag, where Neanderthals lived 50,000 to 60,000 years ago, and humans at various times since. The main drawcard was 14,000 year old rock art.

I was expecting it to be a bit simple, like I’d have to squint to see the stag or the bison. But when the guide’s torchlight hit the rock carvings, I was blown away. They were so easy to identify, and no question what they were. I was almost overwhelmed that this drawing connected me to people from 14,000 years ago.

It almost happened a second time at Haddon Hall, the 1000 year old home of a Lord. It’s just down the road from the far more grand Chatsworth House,

the billion dollar estate of the one of England’s richest aristocratic families.

Haddon Hall is a much nicer place to visit. Less crowds, more intimate, medieval style. The main hall is all dark oak and thick, exposed beams. It has more soul than Chatsworth, and it feels lived in. The ancient stone steps to the kitchen have even worn down 10 centimeters from thousands of feet passing over them. But the really special bit was the chapel. It was a mosaic of cultures, all in one place.

Part of it dated back to the Saxons, part to the Normans, and it is still used by the local parish. It also has a 15th century French parable painted on the wall, about how the rich should beware of how similar they are to the peasants, so they should be kind to them.

Just in case they forgot, Robin Hood was busy all across the landscape, with hideouts on big rocks, and in caves and forests. He’d have a field day with Chatsworth. It feels like

Haddon Hall

a modern serfdom, with just about every local employed by the estate in someway or other, and thousands of tourists lined up to give them their money. It’s impressive, basically a palace, and the walks across the estate are fantastic, but it was a bit too fancy for me. I pointed at a painting and asked ‘is that someone famous?’ ‘Yes,

it’s a Rembrandt’.

The landscape is also dotted with ancient stone monuments. Even if this isn’t your thing, the walks and drives to them are worthwhile. My favourite was Doll Tor, a tiny stone circle in a little wood, a perfect place to elope.

Who knows, maybe the cave artists thought so too.

Nowhere special

Murder mystery M

In the Deep

itch opened the back door for Rusty and took the brown dog’s coat off.

“You certainly needed this today, didn’t you mate?” he said to his happy companion.

The days were getting cooler and the frost was especially thick this morning. Mitch walked through the entry way and into the large kitchen and opened the fridge door. He took out a container of fresh meat and placed some sizeable chunks onto a wide timber board. He removed a sharp knife from the magnet strip on the wall by the stove and flipped the knife into the air catching it, before slicing through the meat effortlessly to create smaller pieces.

He placed the meat into Rusty’s bowl who appeared to have inhaled the food more quickly than it took for Mitch to prepare it.

Mitch went back to the fridge and took out a large bone. “Come on mate, outside for your bone.”

Rusty skidded along the polished

floorboards to get out the door ahead of Mitch.

After thoroughly cleaning the board and knife, Mitch had a shower and then made his way upstairs to his study. He walked over to the solid mahogany desk with a gold embossed leather top and turned on his computer. Several computer screens lit up and he entered his password to launch the web browser and entered another password before opening the Tor browser.

He entered a web address from memory and logged into the site. The message was there. He knew it would be. He had already ignored a number of calls and emails earlier in the week to get his attention and get him to log in online.

“K17, there are a number of operations within your region with immediate deployment status. Indicate your availability to commit within 24 hours.”

Mitch never got over-excited about anything, but he knew that if he asked for any more detail, he would be

By Tiffany Pascoe

Series 2 Episode 1

locked in. He frowned, shook his head and logged out of the site. Surely, he wasn’t getting too old for this lifestyle.

He thrived on the thrill of the challenge and the danger. Especially the danger.

So why was he being so reticent this time?

Mitch thought about his success rate, it had been bloody good. So much so that he was offered ridiculous amounts of money to take on jobs.

However, his last mission didn’t work out well at all. Or rather it did, and that was the problem. It was not unusual for Mitch to find himself caught between power struggles of opposing factions in developing countries where it wasn’t always easy to differentiate the bad guys from the good guys.

More often it was a matter of figuring out the bad guys from the worse guys. Only six months before, Mitch had been involved in an operation which required him to eradicate the leadership to make way for a more progressive and fairer regime.

Unfortunately for Mitch, he later discovered that the newcomers turned out to be as dictatorial - if not more than the incumbents were.

Mitch reflected on how this wouldn’t have concerned him much, but to his chagrin, he was learning that any semblance of a conscience made being a gun for hire somewhat difficult.

Ironically, Mitch was discovering that with age, he was developing a bit of a conscience.

Mitch physically shook himself away from his thoughts as his phone rang. He looked at the caller ID and answered.

“Gidday Robbo, what’s new mate?”

Robbo said, “I’ve just taken over a property out near Forrest Reefs. Come out for a brew at the Reefs Tavern this afternoon and I’ll show you the new digs.”

Mitch thought this was just the distraction he needed. Reflecting on his developing conscience could surely wait another day or two.

To be continued.

Western News

local news

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uring the Covid-19 lockdown period the great outdoors has become a greater point of appreciation as people turned to walking tracks and open space parkland for their exercise and just to mentally unwind and relax.

For Stockland Elara residents a nature hit will not be far from home with hectares of open spaces currently being developed in their own backyard.

Stockland NSW has committed $20 million dollars to the development of

parkland and riparian corridors across the Elara community at Marsden Park.

Upon completion the parkland will be 24 hectares in size, equivalent to two Hyde parks or almost the same size of the Royal Botanical Gardens.

The open space will include a large lake, 7 kilometres of continuous paths and trail, outdoor exercise hubs, outlook spaces, barbecue facilities, inclusive play environments and informal kick about play areas. It will also include 941,800 trees and plants planted.

Patrick Noble, Stockland Elara Project Director, highlights this project as a commitment to not only its communities and residents but also to the environment and wildlife at large.

“Our parkland and riparian corridor developments have been a crucial project for our communities. Creating spaces for our residents to get out and explore nature and open spaces is not only important to the lifestyle and wellbeing of our residents but

also fosters pockets of biodiversity in Greater Sydney.”

“This development exemplifies our commitment to our communities and development of open spaces across our Sydney communities. We hope residents will enjoy the access to the extensive parkland and find joy in the numerous trails, paths and recreational amenities on offer.”

The first stages of riparian construction at Elara has already commenced.

Blacktown City Council Bushfire Appeal

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lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has presented a donation of $40,600 to the not-for-profit organisation GIVIT, as part of Council’s bushfire relief and recovery program.

The money is part of the proceeds from the Blacktown City Bushfire Appeal that raised more than $80,000 in cash donations and facilitated the distribution of more than 25 tonnes of non-perishable food, essential supplies and clothing to bushfire ravaged communities.

“In January this year, Council committed to do whatever it could to assist the councils and communities that were devastated by the bushfires,”

Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Council committed up to $2 million for its bushfire response and recovery operations, including redeploying staff and providing assistance to other NSW Councils that had been hard hit by the bushfires.”

GIVIT is working in conjunction with the NSW Joint Recovery Task Force, linking requests for assistance for bushfire affected families and communities from trusted organisations, with the donations of money, goods and services.

GIVIT Engagement Officer, Kirsty Bender said, “The bushfire recovery process is long and ongoing for many families and communities.

“Many of the fire-affected families in southern NSW are now facing new challenges and needs that come with the colder winter months.”

“Council wanted to make sure that our Bushfire Appeal donations went directly to those in need and GIVIT’s distribution centres and management platform is an efficient way of donating directly to the communities still struggling,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“This money will go to on-theground organisations who are working directly with families and will buy the necessities to help with living conditions, such as generators, water tanks and home appliances,”

Ms Bender said while accepting the cheque on behalf of GIVIT. “All purchases are made locally and support the growth of local business’ in affected regions.”

The balance of Blacktown City Bushfire Appeal will be donated to the Shoalhaven Mayors Bushfire Appeal for specific projects on the South Coast and to the Milton and Nowra CWAs. All non-perishable food and personal hygiene items collected through the Blacktown City Bushfire Appeal were distributed by Foodbank with the material items including clothing and bedding distributed by GIVIT.

Sad loss of local cop A motorcyclist who died in a crash at Rouse Hill last week has been identified as a serving NSW police officer.

Constable Aaron Vidal, aged 28, was travelling home after completing his duties at Sydney City Police Area Command when he was struck by a utility about 5.45pm (Thursday 18 June 2020).

Constable Vidal attested as part of class ‘332’ on Friday 8 December 2017, after which he commenced duties as a probationary constable at Sydney City. He was confirmed as a constable in December 2018.

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has extended his

condolences to the Vidal family on behalf of the NSW Police Force.

“My thoughts are with Aaron’s family and fiancée, as well as his current and former colleagues at this difficult time,” Commissioner Fuller said.

“Aaron was one of six siblings and worked alongside his father, Chief Inspector David Vidal, at Sydney City.

“Dave has always been incredibly proud of his son following in his footsteps and walking the beat side-by-side with him.

“He spent his entire policing career at Sydney City Police Area

Command, where he has been part of the Proactive Crime Team since late last year, targeting crimes that directly impact the community.

“On two occasions he had been formally recognised for good police work by members of the community, which shows that he was held in high regard by not only his peers, but the community he served.

“Prior to joining the police force, Aaron served in the Australian Army, which further demonstrates his commitment to serving and protecting the community,” Commissioner Fuller said.

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

Western Sydney to have more walking trails and first class open space

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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local news

Western News

Council lends a hand to Foodbank

B

lacktown City Council has answered an urgent call from the food relief organisation Foodbank NSW, for volunteers to work at its giant Glendenning distribution centre.

While the demand for Foodbank’s output has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, self-isolation saw a huge reduction in the organisation’s volunteer workforce.

Council stepped in and offered staff members, who were under employed due to COVID-19 restrictions on Council operations, the chance to work alongside the volunteers at Foodbank.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Council and Foodbank have been long time partners in our City. During the recent bushfire emergency, we set-up collection points for donations of non-perishable foodstuffs and personal hygiene items, and delivered them to Foodbank.

“This is a win-win-win situation.

It helps Foodbank maintain its vital services, provides real work for our staff during a time of reduced Council operations and gives them a sense of pride and connection with our community.”

Foodbank NSW Chief

J

Operations Officer, John Robertson said, “We supply up to 250 charities with food supplies as well as running the ‘School Breakfast 4 Health’ program.

“Foodbank depends on its volunteer workforce to keep the supplies moving. But self-isolation and the closing of corporate offices under COVID-19 restrictions saw our volunteer numbers drop dramatically.

“A number of organisations including Blacktown City Council have answered the call and provided staff to fill the gap in our volunteer workforce.”

Kellie Maybury normally staffs the kiosks at the Mount Druitt and Emerton Swimming Centres, but with the pools closed she took up the offer of redeploying to Foodbank.

“It’s actually been really good.

There’s a lot of variety in the work and I feel proud to be doing something to help the community at this time. Also, a change is always good for you,” Kellie said as she stacked boxes of sausages.

For information on Foodbank NSW: www.foodbank.org.au Blacktown City Council COVID-19 information: w w w. b l a c k t o w n . n s w. g o v. au/Services/Health-and-safety/ Response-to-Coronavirus

(L-R) Mayor Tony Bleasdale, Kellie Maybury, Gerado Calizaya, Michelle Trompf, Kerrie-Anne Ried, Erin Jones and John Robertson in the Foodbank warehouse in Glendenning.

Balance At Work

UST as we couldn’t have predicted a global pandemic would hit us like a tonne of bricks this year, we can’t know for sure what will happen for businesses post-COVID. What we do know, however, is that we have the chance to adapt to these challenges and build resilience in the process.

As many of us are well aware, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic goes beyond being a health crisis. It has also impacted the social and economic order globally. We’re in uncharted territory and nobody is quite sure what the next 12 months will look like.

There are ways, however, you can look beyond the fog of uncertainty to prepare your business for the new normal. There are 3 things leaders will need to navigate what comes next.

Resolve No doubt you have employee safety and businesscontinuity plans in place already. Perhaps you have

remote-working or social distancing procedures and are ironing out the kinks in any supply-chain issues.

We are good at responding to an issue as it happens and can usually pivot in a hurry.

To future-proof your business, however, you also need to ensure that you and your staff share resolve in what action needs to be taken. Now, more than ever, your employees need to be engaged in the journey. Share your business plan of action with them and how they can support it. Consider also, is your workplace culture one that will get the most out of your people, remotely or otherwise?

Resilience The economic impact of virus-suppression efforts could cause the biggest shock to our livelihoods in nearly a century, according to a McKinsey Global Institute analysis. Resilience, therefore, is vital to business survival.

Beyond immediate issues like cash management, businesses need to think about broader resilience

With Susan Rochester

strategies for the long-term so that they are prepared to cope with shocks, are more productive and better able to deliver to customers.

Reimagination This is the pandemic that changed everything.

We can expect to see a continued adjustment in the preferences and expectations of people - both as employees and consumers. Businesses that reinvent themselves to respond to the changes in how we live, work and use technology have greater opportunities to succeed.

Strong leaders provide purposeful action and aren’t afraid to reimagine new ways of doing things. A proactive and flexible leadership approach will help you take advantage of new opportunities.

If your business is struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic, you’re not alone. Find out how Balance at Work can help you get through COVID-19.

Get in touch for a free consultation Call

0448 306 180

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

Western WESTERN HISTORY News

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

R

obert Knox Sconce was a Church of England clergyman and schoolteacher who later converted to Catholicism. He was born in June 1818 at Rochester in Kent, England. He was the son of Robert Clement Sconce who was a purser in the navy and later became secretary to Admiral Sir John Duckworth. Robert (Jnr’s) mother was Sarah, the only daughter of Rev. Doctor Vicesimus Knox a writer, theologian, preacher and headmaster of Tonbridge School (School Logo photo). Her great-grandfather (also known as Vicesimus Knox) also a headmaster of Tonbridge from 1771-78, and her uncle the Rev. Doctor Thomas Knox was also a headmaster from 1812-43. The school was founded in 1553. Sarah Sconce died five days after Robert was born leaving him and two young daughters for his father to raise until he remarried and for some years his father was chief commissary of the navy in Malta. Robert (Jnr) lived there until 1829 when he returned to England and entered the Knox family Alma Marta, Tonbridge School. In 1835 Robert was head boy in the sixth form and after graduation he was eligible for a fellowship.

In August 1840 he married Elizabeth Catherine Repton the daughter of Rev. Edward Repton, a canon of Westminster and Chaplain to the House of Commons. In 1840, Robert, Elizabeth, Robert’s sister Sarah Susanna and her husband Captain Richard Bunbury R.N., and the Bunbury’s’ one-year-old son, embarked at Plymouth in the Argyle and landed at Port Phillip in 1841. A fellow passenger named Georgiana McCrae summed him up as “introspective, a careful and precise speaker, but his wife however, was something of a foil, so playful and artless she seems”. In August, Robert along with Richard Bunbury were appointed magistrates of the territory by Governor Sir George Gipps. However, Miss Repton Robert’s sister-in-law called on Rev. Edward Coleridge of Eton College to write to Bishop William Grant Broughton introducing Robert and adding that he was “going forth with the spirit of a missionary and the deepest reverence for the Church of England”. Bishop Broughton was short of clergy and the government had decided to pay no more fares for immigrant clergy, so he had an added reason for inviting Robert to Sydney for ordination, but a request that Robert did not want but he felt he shouldn’t refuse. He reached Sydney in November, passed a ‘very satisfactory’ examination in the presence of Bishop Broughton and Reverend Robert Allwood and was ordained deacon in St James’s Church. Bishop Broughton then sent Robert to St Stephen’s Church in Penrith and St Mary Magdalene Church at South Creek/St Marys which the Bishop considered one of the best preferments he could offer. Bishop Broughton was also attracted by Elizabeth’s personality saying “I was pleased with the spirit of so young a woman making no objection of any sort to all the roughness which at first she will have to encounter and I begged her to take care of the girls in the school and lent her two books of Psalmody and sent her off as happy a parson’s wife”. Robert was priested by the

Bishop in December 1842 at St James’s Church which was the largest ordination ceremony so far held in Australia with five priests and two deacons. Rev. Thomas Makinson was among the priests assisting the bishop in the laying on of hands. Robert continued at Penrith and South Creek in 1843 where he prepared a pamphlet Answers to the Question, Why Do I Submit to the Teaching of the Church? In 1844 Robert was moved to St Andrew’s parish where he used a temporary church while work on the cathedral proceeded slowly. As minister at St Andrew’s he occupied a prominent position in Sydney church affairs and in January 1846 the Bishop lamented on the condition and small numbers of his clergy.

In 1845-47 Robert was one of the clergies who lectured at St James’s College that the Bishop inaugurated for training local postulants. The college was moved in 1847 to James Bowman’s property “Lyndhurst” in Glebe.

By 1852 the property was bought by the Catholic Church and St Mary’s College was established there under Bishop Charles Davis.

Enrolments started to fall off after 1848 and Robert started to have doubts about Anglican doctrines which reached a critical stage in February 1848. Finally, unable to accept the Bishop’s explanations of problems of ecclesiastical history, Robert spent “ten days in prayer and earnest thought with ten nights of hard struggles and tears” before his mind was finally clear. In 1849 in February Robert and Rev. Makinson resigned their licences as Anglican priests and five days later Bishop Broughton held a court where sentences of “deprivation and deposition from the ministry” were pronounced and Robert’s sentence was read the following Sunday in the St Andrew’s parish church. Robert gave some details of his conversion in a pamphlet published in April titled Reasons for Submitting to the Catholic Church, that brought controversy between the Bishop and himself where he described how he had taken his difficulties to Rev. W H Walsh of Christ Church in St Lawrence’s parish and then to the Bishop, but neither of these men however was able to persuade him that the “Catholic tenets of apostolic succession and papal supremacy” were incorrect. Apparently it was during his ‘ten days in prayer’ that Robert first approached Archbishop John Bede Polding who agreed ‘with great joy of heart’ to see him and within a few days, Robert, his wife and children became Catholics. Polding employed Robert and Makinson as teachers in charge of the lay school attached to St Mary’s Seminary at a salary of £150 each.

Robert continued at the seminary until 1851 then began to study for admission to the Bar, however, he contracted scarlet fever and died in 1852. He was buried from St Mary’s Cathedral. Elizabeth died at Brighton in England in 1898. Robert and Makinson were considered the two most important conversions in Australia. One result of their defection from Anglicanism was the development of a critical attitude towards Bishop Broughton.

Sources: Benedictine Pioneers in Australia-vol 2, SPG Sydney Committee Reports-1841-47, Sydney Morning Herald, Broughton papers-at National Library of Australia, Robert Knox Sconce -R.A.Daly, Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University.

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

An Unconventional Parson

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Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

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ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY

INSTRUCTIONS

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

SUDOKU: HARD

SOLUTIONS: 12 June EASY

EASY

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 A support or foundation (4) 9 Scratchy (5) 10 Following (4) 11 A long tiresome piece

of writing (6) 12 Saw (8) 13 Badge (8) 15 A device used to keep

instruments steady

regardless of motion (6) 17 Braids (7) 19 Marked with linear

discolorations (7) 22 Gaelic (6) 24 Critiqued (8) 26 Longing (8) 28 Showing affection (6) 30 Goddess of healing

(Babylonian mythology) (4) 31 Browned slices of bread (5) 32 Tick ____ (4)

solution 12/6/20

down 1 Made from the residue of grapes (4) 2 Marks against a person for

misconduct (8) 3 Requested earnestly (6) 4 Academic (7) 5 The ability to see (8) 6 A natural cavity in a bone (6) 7 Shaft on which a wheel rotates (4) 14 Pertaining to Scandinavia (5) 16 Foot joint (5) 18 In an advanced stage of pregnancy (8) 20 Unnerve (8) 21 TV show (7) 23 Pharynx (6) 25 Elevated open grasslands (6) 27 Pocketbook (4) 29 Pleasant (4)

Western News

A

19

How to fund a renovation

s a result of the turbulent start to 2020, Australians everywhere are taking a close look at their financial circumstances. Many have decided to change their options and plans of moving into another property and are thinking of improving their current home. If you are considering transforming your home from ‘banal’ to ‘brilliant’, but lack the funds to support your makeover? There are solutions for your choice, we’ve provided five home renovation finance options that could help turn your dream into reality.

1. Equity Release / Top Up Home Loan This is probably the most common way people borrow money when they want to renovate. It involves borrowing against the current value of your home, before any value-adding renovations and in most cases allows you to obtain the funds upfront. You won’t be able to borrow the full value of your home but, without mortgage insurance, you can usually borrow up to 80 per cent of its value if you own it outright. One potential problem is that the cost of your renovations may actually be higher than the equity you have available. If you run out of funds mid-construction, and if the property is then not in sound, lock up condition, you may have an issue obtaining extra funds down the track.

2. Construction loan If you’re planning to completely transform your home and undergo a major makeover, this may be a good option as you can spread the cost over a long period of time. You could even possibly borrow up to 90 per cent of the end value of your home and take advantage of mortgage rates which tend to be

lower than credit card and personal loan rates. With a construction loan, the lender will assess the value of your home after the renovation based on the building plans and you can typically borrow against that value. You won’t be given the full loan amount upfront, but usually in staggered amounts over a period of time – this is called ‘progress payments’ and is linked to a fixed price building contract which will be from your builder.

3. Line of credit When you apply, you can establish a revolving credit line that you can access whenever you want to up to your approved limit. You only pay interest on the funds you use and, as you pay off your balance, you can re-borrow the unused funds without reapplying if that becomes necessary.

However, care must be taken not to get in over your head in terms of serviceability. Make sure you can make repayments on the line of credit that will reduce the principle because your minimum repayment only pays the interest, it will not reduce the loan. Rates on this product are typically much higher than a construction loan or top up loan. This product feature is great if managed well, but can also be a trap if not seriously considered as your limit will never change.

4. Personal loan If you’re only making minor renovations – personal loans are usually capped at around $30,000 – this might be suitable, but interest rates on personal loans are higher than on home equity loans and payments need to be made usually over a maximum of seven years.

@wealthwiz

5. Credit cards This option should only be considered if you want to undertake really small renovation projects.

The interest rates are usually much higher than on mortgages, but for a very small project, that extra interest might actually total less than loan establishment fees. *HomeBuilder If you’re looking for further assistance to be able to afford your property renovation project, the Federal Government recently announced $25,000 grants for eligible Australian owner-occupiers to build a new home or substantially renovate an existing home. The Government’s HomeBuilder package is designed to assist the residential construction market by encouraging the commencement of new home builds and renovations. Income and other conditions apply and this grants program is active until 31 December 2020. For more information visit the Treasury website https://treasury.gov.au/ coronavirus/homebuilder.

One thing you must do There are very few exceptions to the rule that your renovations should add more value to your home than they will cost to carry out. Think about how the money you spend on a renovation will increase the value of your property. For example, consider making changes that would appeal to the majority of potential buyers to help you sell your house faster and at a higher price.

Western News 26 June 2020 Issue 112

Alex Soncini

REAL ESTATE

If there is anything you are unsure about, contact Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177.

#wealthwizau

WealthWiz Wealth Management | Suite 3, 47-51 Richmond Rd, Blacktown Call 8004 6655 | www.wealthwiz.com.au

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Western News Friday, 26 June 2020

SPORT

Duke buzzing for A-League return

By CONNER LOWE

W

estern S y d n e y Wa n d e r e r s captain Mitchell Duke says the team is happy to be back at training ahead of the resumption of the season next month.

Duke, who has been out of action since the suspension of the league in March, has used the unexpected break away from football as an opportunity to reconnect and spend some valuable time with his family.

“It’s been a bit tough, I’ve got a four-year-old and he’s got a massive attachment to me. So he was wrapped around my neck the whole time,” said Duke.

“But I turned the break into a positive. For me personally, I’ve got a little family so it eased my soul during this period.

“It was hard to plan in a bit of training in between those periods especially when there was no daycare, so it’s been a tough period but I made

it work.

“I saw where I was at (at training) and I am not happy. But I believe that I will work hard over the next few weeks to make sure I’m at the best level I can be for the team and I know every player is the same.”

With the countdown now on for the resumption of the season, Duke believes that the next 27 days are more than enough time for the team to get back to their best.

“Everyone’s buzzing to be back, even after all the running that we did.

No one’s complaining and everyone’s happy so that’s quite a good attitude from the boys and the club,” explained Duke.

“This is the same preparation time as you would have in Europe anyway so we have enough time to finish off the season in good stead.

“We know where we are at and what we can do. Obviously we had that

great performance against Sydney FC in our last game, so we won’t accept anything less than that standard.

“We got a lot of work to do and a lot of boys need to get their conditions up.

It’s going to be a bit of time to adjust but I think everyone’s got the right attitude to get there.”

The Wanderers only have five games left of the regular season and still have a chance to make the Finals Series, which for Duke and the team is the key goal.

“I think that’s massive, we’ve seen the table, we’re not too far out. We do know Western United have a game in hand over us but we also play them in the final five games as well. we can use that as motivation,” said Duke.

“I believe that if we can stay at the level that we were at before this break, we can cause a real upset if we can make that Finals Series and then go all the way.

“The players believe we can do something this season still and it’s full credit to the boys for being committed to finishing this season together.”