BLACKTOWN City Council has celebrated two of the City’s extraordinary senior residents at the 2024 Blacktown City Senior Citizen of the Year Award ceremony.
Christine Nield and Peter Overton were named joint recipients of Blacktown City’s 2024 Senior Citizen of the Year, with the prestigious title recognising their dedication to their local community through volunteer work.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, congratulated both saying, “This award provides Council with an opportunity to acknowledge and honour the heroes within our senior community in Blacktown City.
“With over 61,000 individuals aged over 65 living in Blacktown City, their remarkable contributions, frequently through voluntary and unpaid work, significantly enrich our community. I express my gratitude and congratulations to Christine and Peter for their countless hours of dedication. They are truly deserving recipients of this award,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
Christine, a long-time Blacktown resident, actively supports her community through various initiatives
like the Quakers Hill Neighbourhood Centre’s donation gathering, Blacktown Council’s knit bomb project against domestic violence, and Boomerang Bags at Riverstone, which repurposes fabric to create environmentally friendly items. Her innovative contributions, including making book pillows for early literacy and crafting bags for
Kids Early Learning, highlight her dedication to making a difference.
Recognition of Christine’s kindness and generosity is well-deserved.
For three decades, Peter’s decorated house in Quakers Hill has drawn crowds from near and far at Christmas time. With meticulous handmade decorations added each year, Peter dedicated October and November
to set up and December to greeting thousands each night, organising BBQs, and even arranging visits from Santa on a fire truck.
Peter has finally decided to turn down the lights after 30 years of selfless dedication. Council congratulates Peter for the recognition he deserves as he reluctantly hangs up his ladder.
Editor: General
Stacey
0420 319 893 Pegasus
BY KERRIE DAVIES
HOPING to squeeze in a road trip this Easter long weekend?
Our Police are hoping to have enough donated blood to meet the impact of road trauma at this time of year. The Traffic and Highway Patrol Command have launched a week-long blood drive to help draw attention to the urgent need.
In 2018, Senior Constable Jonathan Wright, attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, was setting up a random breath testing site when he and a fellow officer were hit by a distracted driver.
As a result, Senior Constable Wright was pinned between two vehicles. He sustained serious lower leg injuries and lost a significant amount of blood.
“Whilst in hospital, I underwent three major surgeries during which I received five bags of blood and my right leg below the knee had to be amputated. Without blood I likely would not be here today,” Senior Constable Wright said.
Six years later, Senior Constable Wright operates a part of South West Traffic and Highway Patrol, as a Community Engagement Officer, providing in-school road safety programs to Year 11 students across the south western and southern regions.
This week Traffic and Highway Patrol officers across the state are donating blood and helping save lives. Seven people died and 129 were seriously injured on our roads last Easter.
Leading the drive, Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, said traffic officers see first-hand the very real need for blood when they arrive on the scene of crashes where people have suffered serious injuries and will require donations.
“Every Easter long Weekend, we see a significant increase of vehicles and users on our roads across the state and it is an extremely important time for the community to be vigilant and look out for one another,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said. “We encourage anyone who can donate to do so, not only are you helping people who have suffered traumatic injuries but also those with serious illnesses, such as cancer.”
An hour of your time could save up to three lives: www.lifeblood.com.au/
THE NSW Police Force has unveiled a new look addition to the Aviation Command in Sydney’s southwest recently.
One of the fleet’s Bell 429 helicopters, known as PolAir 1, has been wrapped in an artwork designed by artist and domestic violence survivor Chloe Spinks.
Aviation Commander Detective Superintendent Brad Monk APM said he was inspired to transform PolAir 1 after hearing Chloe’s story.
“I became aware of Chloe’s work through my involvement with Babana Men’s Group at Redfern and as the most senior Indigenous officer in the NSW Police Force, I find the artwork and her story very inspiring. It is crucial that New South Wales Police continue to work towards building trust, breaking down barriers and strengthening relationships within our communities,” Detective Superintendent Monk said.
“As well as being used for rescue operations and law enforcement, the newly wrapped PolAir 1 aircraft will also play a key role in our engagements”.
Artist and domestic violence survivor, Chloe Spinks, said she hoped the artwork, which features her representation of Eora (Sydney), inspires other domestic violence survivors to share their stories.
“I am proud Barkindji and Gamilaroi woman who grew on up on Gadigal Land. I am a survivor of a horrific domestic violence incident and want to provide hope and strength to others who have also suffered,” Ms Spinks said.
TWO incredibly talented and community spirited high school students – 17-year-old Jamison Dustin from Norwest Christian College and 16-year-old Annacemone Nashid from Plumpton High School – have been announced as Blacktown City Council’s 2024 Youth Ambassadors
Jamison and Annacemone both triumphed after going through an exhaustive selection process that culminated in seven finalists presenting their views on youth engagement to a gala dinner hosted by Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM.
“As Mayor, I’m incredibly proud of the role that our Youth Ambassador program plays in the moulding of our City’s future leaders. Both Jamison and Annacemone will be agents for positive change for the youth of our City,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
Annacemone Nashid is a gifted maths and science Year 10 student, who has won a number of academic competitions, as well as being a member of her Student Executive Council. She has spoken at Harmony Day and Remembrance Day events, and volunteers with a number of community groups, including Plumpton Community Church.
“In my role as Youth Ambassador, I would like to work on a number of youth issues including bullying, substance abuse, pornography and an overall lack of awareness among young people of major international issues,” Annacemone said.
Jamison Dustin is also a member of his school’s Student Council, a keen debater, public speaker and Corporal in the Australian Air League. Jamison is also an accomplished cricketer with both his club and school and also takes time out to help the NSW Blind Cricket Team with training and game assistance.
“I would like to see a program designed to equip senior school students with the knowledge and skills they need to enter into broader society, such as day-to-day finance, how to find housing, education opportunities and communications skills. In short, a crash course in life,” Jamison said.
The Blacktown City Youth Ambassador program has provided students with the opportunity to be the
voice to Council on youth affairs for more than 40 years.
Blacktown City Youth Ambassadors speak at Citizenship Ceremonies and Civic Receptions, they have the chance to attend a Local Government Conference and are members of Council’s Sister Cities and Youth Advisory committees.
The seven finalists were selected by a panel of judges consisting of Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Deputy Mayor Chris Quilkey and Mrs Addy Kaur, lecturer in Nursing at ACU.
Mayor Bleasdale also thanked outgoing Youth Ambassadors, Darshanik Aryal and Giovanna Tabanag for their service to Blacktown City over the past 12-months.
“Giovanna and Darshanik have
been excellent role models for the youth of Blacktown City, displaying enthusiasm, interest and compassion in all their tasks.
“They have shown people in our community, both young and old, what true service looks like.
“I am very proud of the success of the Youth Ambassador Program and the opportunities it has offered the young people of Blacktown City since 1983.
“Many of the more than 70 ‘Graduates’ from the program have gone on to be leaders in their chosen field, including doctors, lawyers, teachers, community workers, business and communications and even valued staff members at Blacktown City Council,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
AUSTRALIAN Christian College (ACC) Marsden Park, a rapidly growing provider of quality schooling, recently officially opened two new buildings, a move that will accommodate the school’s incredible enrolment growth.
The school has tripled in just five years, having 667 students in 2019 and kicking off the 2024 school year with over 2,000 students enrolled. The school offers both on-campus and online education, with both learning options growing strongly.
Principal Brendan Corr welcomed guests to the opening, including Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car; Blacktown City Council members; Board members; staff, students, and their families. Ms Car addressed the attendees and
unveiled two plaques dedicating the buildings before cutting a ribbon marking their official opening.
The new three-storey high-tech learning hub is fitted out with a range of 21st century learning facilities, whilst the Secondary building will accommodate over 650 students. Both are welcome additions to the community and will continue to ensure that students are well known, well loved and well taught.
Both buildings were supported by the Building Grants Assistance Scheme (BGAS), a program funded by the NSW Government and administered by the AISNSW Block Grants Authority. “These new
facilities put us in an ideal position as educators to prepare our students for the rapidly changing workforce they will enter. They’ll have access to a teaching environment that will engage, challenge and delight them,” commented Mr Corr.
The opening of the new building comes at a time when the world of education is continuing to embrace innovative teaching methodologies and further integrating technology into the classroom.
McCrindle Research in 2019 surveyed parents in the Greater Western Sydney area and the overwhelming majority (73 percent) are looking for the integration of
technology and critical thinking skills into their child’s education. Based on this research, the hightech hub was designed with STEM learning facilities, including virtual reality suites, multiple video editing rooms with green screens, film and photography studios, podcast booths, Mac labs and a lecture theatre.
“I am honoured to be opening the new high-tech learning hub at the Australian Christian College Marsden Park, which continues to play an important role in the community as a leading educator. It is great to see this level of investment in education in our wonderful community,” Minister for Education and Early Learning,” Prue Car said.
“We’re thankful to the State Government for the funding assistance to provide our school community with these campus enhancements,” concluded Mr Corr. Students will have access to the buildings immediately, getting their hands on high-tech equipment and brand new classrooms with the support and oversight of fulltime industry professionals.
Australian Christian College Marsden Park (www.acc.edu.au/ marsdenpark/) is a K-12, coeducational, Christian school offering both on-campus learning and distance education pathways.
ON 5 March 1804, a group of more than 200 escaped convicts and a few settlers faced off against a contingent of British soldiers near Rouse Hill, in Western Sydney, in what became known as the Battle of Vinegar Hill.
Earlier this month, a commemoration ceremony was held at the Vinegar Hill Memorial in the Castlebrook Memorial Gardens, Rouse Hill, marking the 220th anniversary of that battle, the first between Europeans on Australian soil.
Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM led the commemoration along with the Irish Consul General in Sydney Rosie Kean, local historians, Councillors and members of Sydney’s Irish community.
The ceremony included the laying of three wreaths, the singing of both the Australian and Irish national anthems, speeches by Mayor
Bleasdale and Consul General Kean, Irish pipe music performances and an historical perspective of the Battle of Vinegar Hill by the Secretary of Castle Hill Historical Society, Pam Wilson.
Whilst Australia’s Battle of Vinegar Hill, or Vinegar Hill Rebellion, was fought in 1804, the seeds of the uprising can be traced to the bloody battle at Vinegar Hill in County Wexford, Ireland in 1798.
Thousands of Irish rebels were killed or captured by British troops in the battle, regarded as a major turning point of the Irish rebellion. A number of those rebels were transported to New South Wales and found their way to the Castle Hill Convict Farm
On 4 March 1804, 233 convicts, led by Philip Cunningham, a veteran of the 1798 rebellion, escaped from Castle Hill Convict Farm and planned to march on Parramatta and Sydney under the banner “liberty and equality”.
Martial law was declared and eventually Cunningham’s rebels were defeated by British troops in Australia’s Battle of Vinegar Hill. The leaders of the rebels were either killed in battle or executed.
The Vinegar Hill Monument was unveiled by former Prime Minister, Hon. Gough Whitlam on 5 March, 1988.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Bleasdale said: “Whilst both Battles of Vinegar Hill resulted in defeat of the rebels by British troops, they both shared a common spirit of rebellion and the fight for liberty and equality.
“The Vinegar Hill Monument here in Rouse Hill is not only a monument to the Battle of Vinegar Hill, but also a monument to liberty and equality and a monument to the pioneering spirit and determination of those early European settlers, no matter what their nationality or social standing.”
Irish Consul General Rosie Kean said: “I am incredibly proud to be here, celebrating the battle of Vinegar Hill. Irish people feel at home here in
the City of Blacktown and there are so many reasons for this, not the least of which is a shared culture.”
The commemoration ceremony was followed by an Irish Appreciation Day
at The Fiddler, Rouse Hill to celebrate Blacktown City Council’s ‘Sister City’ relationship with Enniscorthy, County Wexford in Ireland, signed in August 2023.
Seven Hills/Toongabbie/Wentworthville RSL Sub-Branch
On behalf of the Seven Hills Toongabbie Wentworthville RSL Sub-Branch we will be holding our Anzac Day Commemoration Service at the Seven Hills RSL on Thursday 25th April 2024
The Service will commence with a Street March, assembling at 5am in Boomerang Crescent Seven Hills, kicking off at about 5.30am to the Seven Hills RSL Club where a Commemorative Service will be held. The Service will involve the laying of Wreaths as a sign of respect.
Those who wish to lay a Wreath on behalf of their Love Ones, please contact Graham Larkham so that your name can be called out during the Service.
At the conclusion of the Service those who attend the Service will be invited to attend the Club for a Breakfast.
THE Land and Environment Court has issued a fine of $280,000 to Dial-A-Dump (EC) Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Bingo Industries Limited.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) received around 750 complaints from residents in Sydney’s west, about offensive rotten egg gas odours in 2021 coming from the company’s Eastern Creek landfill between March and June 2021.
In 2021 residents complaints could not be clearer, for those affected the odour was insufferable.
The Court also ordered Dial-A-Dump (EC) Pty Ltd to pay the EPA’s investigation costs of $42,575 and the EPA’s legal costs, still to be agreed by the parties but noted in the Court’s judgment to be approximately $365,000.
These penalties underscore the severity of the odour situation for our local residents.
On behalf of the Blacktown City community and the people of Western Sydney, I want to continue to be clear, we have had enough of our community
being exposed to air and water pollution without consequence to the perpetrators.
The well-being of our residents and the preservation of our local environmental amenity is paramount, and it is unacceptable for any organisation to neglect their responsibilities to their local community.
Blacktown City Council has been at the forefront of dealing with this issue for many years.
Three Blacktown City Environment Health Officers were involved in the in-depth investigation into finding the original source of the odour, working with the community, providing detailed evidence and significantly collaborating with the EPA.
The Court’s decision to allocate a portion of the penalty towards an environmental restoration project in Minchinbury is a positive step towards rectifying the harm caused.
My thanks to the residents, Councillors and Members of Parliament actively involved in advocating for the community and pressing for appropriate action to address the problem.
WESTERN Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD)
has welcomed vibrant cultural attire, stunning performances, and a palpable sense of unity as staff gathered at Blacktown Hospital to celebrate Harmony Day.
The event brought to life this year’s theme Everyone Belongs with a series of diverse and engaging performances from WSLHD staff in a celebration of difference and inclusion.
From “Punjabi fusion” dance performances to beautiful singing, the event was a powerful exclamation mark in a week of celebrations across the district.
Nicole Grice, WSLHD Director of People & Culture, gave a stirring address as this year’s Executive Sponsor of Harmony Day, emphasising the importance of fostering cultural respect and inclusivity across the district.
“Western Sydney has one of the most diverse cultural communities in Australia and we proudly cater our services to meet the needs of our people,” Nicole said.
With nearly half of the district’s residents born overseas and a majority speaking languages other than English, Harmony Day is a platform to honour this multicultural heritage, something that plays a role in patient and community care year round.
“ “
Nicole Grice, WSLHD Director of People & Culture
“We have an established Multicultural Health team here at the district to work with these culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
“This team is dedicated to delivering meaningful, empathetic and culturally sensitive care.”
WSLHD Multicultural Health Services Manager, Monika Latanik, moved attendees with her account of her experience migrating to Australia, and the difficulties and cultural shock she faced.
She also shared the incredible work the Multicultural Health team do for the western Sydney community.
“We do not provide clinical care, but we support the communities to understand how the system looks, how to access it, and how to navigate it.
“We also work with staff to help them understand where the community is coming from.”
The event at Blacktown Hospital also showcased the talent and diversity
of staff, including Kanwal Preet Kaur, a Clinical Nurse Educator, who impressed the audience with a captivating “Punjabi fusion” dance performance.
Bryan Ines, Perioperative Services nurse educator, added his touch to the celebration with a heartfelt performance of Circle of Life , and his voice echoed through the halls of the hospital.
Another highlight of the event was a powerful Haka performance by Wiremu (Wil) Pita, Medical Workforce Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals (BMDH).
The Harmony Day celebration at Blacktown Hospital was just one of the many ways in which the WSLHD marked the occasion.
Across the district, departments and teams hosted small events, bringing cultural dishes and wearing cultural dress or the colour orange, each contributing to the collective celebration of multiculturalism and inclusivity.
The array of celebrations throughout the district acted as evidence that Harmony Day is more than just a celebration—it is a statement of the district’s commitment to diversity, respect, and belonging.
Nicole Grice, WSLHD Director of People & Culture “ “
Days like today give us an important opportunity to learn and celebrate these vibrant cultures and communities.
THE Dawson Mall Project is the visible start of something really big for Mount Druitt, a significant contribution to a larger transformation of Mount Druitt city centre by Blacktown City Council.
It adds to the over $100 million dollars worth of projects, funded by Council, with the support of the NSW and Australian Governments.
Blacktown City Council, in partnership with the Australian Government, has begun the transformation of the Mount Druitt city centre in Dawson Mall, and it’s now ready for the local community to enjoy.
With $2.6 million from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and $1.2 million from Blacktown City Council, the $3.8 million refurbishment provides a much-needed boost for this busy public thoroughfare in the heart of Mount Druitt.
The Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP said, “Gone are the days where people want to duck in and out of local shopping precincts, they’re really the epicentre of communities, where people expect modern and diverse spaces to better connect with friends and family.
“That’s exactly what we’re offering Mount Druitt locals through this reimagined Dawson Mall, delivered in partnership with Blacktown City Council, as part of our commitment to get high-priority community infrastructure projects off the ground.”
On Saturday 16 March, The Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM and local MP, Ed Husic cut the ribbon to officially open the newly refurbished Dawson Mall.
Mayor Bleasdale said “We celebrate the transformation of this vital public space, a place where our community
comes together to connect, play, and thrive. Council has added colour and new life to a much-loved community space.”
The refurbishment includes a new stage, play equipment, upgraded lighting, new seating, tree planting, landscaping and new shade structure that reflects vibrant artwork from the local community.
Mr Husic said, “I’m so happy we’ve freshened up the look of Mount Druitt Town Square. With a new shade structure and better lighting, we are not only improving the look of the area but also making the space safer and more inviting for residents and visitors alike.”
the structure depict scenes of everyday life that local people appreciated about their community and their concerns and aspirations for change.
The Dawson Mall upgrade will provide a much-needed boost for this busy public thoroughfare in the heart of Mount Druitt and will be a colourful addition situated next to the Mount Druitt Library and Hub.
Blacktown City Council’s vision for the Mount Druitt CBD is to create a highly connected network of useable, safe and attractive public spaces at the centre of a thriving retail, commercial and residential town centre.
The refurbishment of Dawson Mall is a significant contribution to a larger transformation of Mount Druitt city centre by Blacktown City Council.
For some years now, Council’s ambition has been to ‘transform’ the city. To form partnerships, and to use funds wisely, to attract employment and investment.
“The Albanese Government was proud to back the investment in our community infrastructure,” Mr Husic said.
A feature of the transformation is an innovative, rainbow-coloured rope shade structure, which snakes through the town square. The artwork that inspired this shade structure is the cover page of a 1987 hand screen printed calendar called ‘Mount Druitt; 365 Days’.
The calendar was co-created by Garage Graphix arts workers with community groups and residents of Mount Druitt and Blacktown in 1986.
The 13 multicoloured screen prints on
ACROSS
6. Put to death (7)
7. German submarine (5)
9. Survey (4)
10. Ceremony (10)
11. Something of sentimental value (8)
13. Free (6)
15. Coke or Pepsi (4)
17. Damp (5)
18. Twaddle (British) (4)
19. Speaks (6)
20. Curse (8)
23. An order of nuns (10)
26. Vipers (4)
27. Gray sea eagles (5)
28. Trespasser (7)
DOWN
1. Plastic wrap (10)
2. Goddess of the dawn (6)
3. Earl Grey and orange pekoe (4)
Up to $2 billion worth of residential developments in the town centre are currently approved. Council is providing opportunity for new housing within the Mount Druitt city centre and in the numerous urban renewal zones near railway and metro stations across the City.
“We aim to provide our community with the best living and working environment for all,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
Council is also delivering a series of local projects, with NSW Government funding through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program, which includes $41m for the Mount Druitt Swimming Centre that will modernise an ageing local facility to meet current and future demand for yearround swimming and learn to swim programs.
4. Without restrictions (8)
5. Fizzy drink (4)
6. Overact (5)
8. Plan of action (7)
12. Banish (5)
14. Subsequently (10)
16. Synopsis (7)
17. An adulterous woman (8)
21. Escarole (6)
22. Become narrower (5)
24. Zingy taste (4)
25. Cleveland’s state (4)
GEORGE Hope was born at Ainsworth, Lancashire in England on 12th January 1815. He married Alice Hunt on 15th September, 1839 and they came to Australia in the “Clyde” on the 21st April 1840 and George worked for Sir John Jamison at “Regentvilla”. Later with his wife Alice they settled at Castlereagh as farmers, but when the O’Connell grant of “Frogmore” at Werrington was being sold in the 1850’s George purchased a 50-acre allotment bounded partly by the Werrington Road, the present railway line and the Western Road (highway) that he named “Hopefields”. The farm was later known as “Hope Farm” on Quarry Hill at Werrington and was later bought by William Garner the first Mayor of the St Marys Municipal Council. In July 1850 in the Court of Requests at Penrith with regards to the singular decision of the Commissioner on the petition of George Hope who wrote a letter to the Editor of the Sydney Morning Herald saying “Sir, I think it right to make public to the people, a decision of the Commissioner of the Court of Requests at Penrith as one seriously involving the just and equitable rights of claimants in that Court. Some time ago a neighbour’s pigs got among my crop of potatoes and consumed and otherwise destroyed them. My wife Alice in my absence drove the pig’s home to their owner who said that they were his pigs, and on the same day he came and looked at the damage done. When the case came up for adjudication before the Commissioner at Penrith, he would not hear the evidence of my wife and dismissed the case because I did not happen to see the pigs on my crop myself (and my wife did) and I did not drive them home to their owner, that of course, I could not do. You will observe the defendant (neighbour) acknowledged the pigs to be his property and the damage they had done, and conscientiously admitting his liability he was most anxious to settle the matter rather than go into Court, but I would not take less than the amount I claimed and did not cover the damage done by one-half. I will particularly be obliged if you would inform me through the medium of your paper whether this decision of the Commissioner is strictly in accordance with the Court of Equity and conscience, and whether a quibble of law has not been mixed up with the case, upon which alone the decision would appear to have been pronounced. Yours - George Hope”. The answer came in the Sydney Morning Herald on the 18th July, 1850 saying “The English legal system was introduced to Australia through colonisation. Upon arrival to Australia the colonists declared that the laws of England were to immediately apply to all settled lands. This declaration was asserted by reliance upon a legal fiction that the Australian continent was terra nullius; i.e. land belonging to no one, as it was believed that the Aboriginal peoples already inhabiting the continent were not cohesively organised for a treaty to be struck with any single representation of their peoples. Under the conventions of international law at the time, terra nullius lands were recognised as immediately adopting
the laws of the relevant colonial power. The arrival of English Law was later expressly stated in statute by passage of the Australian Courts Act 1828. The act stated that all laws and statutes in force in England at the date of enactment should be applied in the courts of NSW and Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) so far as those laws were applicable. The earliest civil and criminal courts established from the beginnings of the colony of NSW were rudimentary, adaptive and military in character. Although legality was not always observed, the courts limited the powers of the Governor and the law of the colony was at times more egalitarian than in Britain. By 1824 a court system based in essence on the English model had been established through Acts of the British Parliament. The New South Wales Act 1823 provided for the establishment of a Supreme Court with the power to deal with all criminal and civil matters “as fully and amply as Her Majesty’s Court of King’s Bench, Common Pleas and Exchequer at Westminster”. Inferior courts were also established, including courts of General or Quarter Sessions, and Courts of Requests. Representative government emerged in the 1840s and 1850s, and a considerable measure of autonomy was given to local legislatures in the second half of the nineteenth century. Nevertheless, Acts of the United Kingdom Parliament extending to the colonies could override contrary colonial legislation and would apply by “paramount force”. George died at St Leonards on the 31st August 1893 at the age of 78 and Alice born in 1814 in Lancaster died at St Marys on 16th September 1892 aged 76 and both are buried at St Stephen’s cemetery, Penrith.
ALEX SONCINI
N alternative documentation loan (alt doc) or a low documentation loan (low doc) are mortgages that can be taken out using different sorts of paperwork to the kind needed for a full documentation (full doc) loan. Self-employed borrowers, who can find it difficult to provide standard documentation as proof of their income, often use these sorts of alternative loans.
The low down on alt doc loans
Once upon a time, a ‘low doc’ loan was just that: a mortgage that could be taken out using less documents to get it. But, after the global financial crisis (GFC) and the tightening up of lending rules that came after it
everything changed.
After the GFC in 2008 the introduction of National Consumer Credit Regulations in 2009 changed how low doc loans could work. One of the most important parts of it was that a lender can’t lend to a customer unless they (the lender) have met what are called the ‘lender’s responsible lending obligations’.
This means that today every loan has to pass a test that says the borrowers are in a position to manage their loan repayments. As a result of this rule, low doc loans became quite a lot like regular full documentation loans. The main difference being not the amount of documents but the type of documents that can be used
as evidence to satisfy a lender’s loan suitability and credit assessment criteria. That’s why they get called Alt Doc.
If, for example, you can’t provide up to date tax returns, some big non-bank lenders will consider that you can provide alternative income documents to support your loan application. When they assess your ‘Alt Doc’ application some of the things they will look for are:
• Has your business been ABN registered for at least 6 months?
• Has your business been GST registered for at least 6 months?
• Business Activity Statements (BAS)
• Bank Account Statements
• An Accountants Letter.
Of course, different home loan products need different levels of supporting documentation. For this reason, the best thing to do is to talk to us. We’ll go through the income verification documents you do have, talk to you about what the options are and work with you to find a home loan provider that meets your needs.
If you’d like more information on alt doc loans talk to us today about how we may be able to put you in touch with a lender that can help if the major banks say ‘no’ to your loan application. Contact Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice to help you navigate the loan market for selfemployed borrowers.
NEW research by Western Sydney University has revealed that housing cooperatives may form part of Australia’s answer to affordable and stable housing choices amidst a growing housing and rental crisis.
A popular housing model in many parts of the world, although not yet fully embraced in Australia, cooperatives are an innovative form of housing that are uniquely defined by the active participation of their members in the governance, operations, and other activities of their co-operative.
Lead researcher, Professor Louise Crabtree-Hayes from Western Sydney University’s Institute for Culture and Society, says interest in the communitydriven housing form is quickly growing and the outcomes for those it houses are extraordinary.
“The benefits of the housing cooperative model can be profound, with the unique requirement for active participation amongst their tenantmembers driving positive outcomes,
including long-term housing stability, a strong sense of home and community, and the development of skills that we found to be directly connected to employment and educational outcomes,” said Professor CrabtreeHayes.
“We also saw that tenant-members have an enhanced sense of voice and empowerment over their living circumstances. Living in a co-operative may not be for everyone, but for those it suits, it can be life changing.”
The project worked with five sector providers and peak bodies, and cooperative tenant-members across four states, to purpose build and deploy its methodology. This captured over 80 per cent of the sector, highlighting the voices of over 300 tenant-members.
The findings reveal that costs associated with establishing housing co-operatives are generally on par with other forms of community housing and when greater co-operative participation in tenancy and property activities
is factored in, including tenantmembers’ time, this reduces the overall community housing provider costs.
The research also highlights the value of diversity and the extent of benefits experienced by tenant-members, with the model being flexible in how the co-operatives operate including governance, management, location, and built forms.
Liz Thomas, chair of the Australian Co-operative Housing Alliance (ACHA) said this research is essential in highlighting the value that this housing model could bring to addressing the worsening housing and homelessness crisis and diversifying Australia’s housing system.
“Resolving Australia’s housing crisis requires a multi-faceted approach that includes housing co-operatives. This groundbreaking research will support and inform best practice and will be critical to the growth of the Australian co-op housing sector,” said Ms Thomas.
The research recommends greater support is needed to grow awareness and understanding for this model of housing, and to establish appropriate policy settings. By drawing on the lived experiences of existing tenant members, a range of rental housing co-operative models should be encouraged, rather than a one-size-fits all approach.
This research was conducted by Western Sydney University, Swinburne University, the University of Newcastle, and Griffith University. It was funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC), Common Equity Housing Ltd, Victoria, Common Equity Housing South Australia, Common Equity New South Wales, Co-operation Housing, Western Australia and United Housing Co-operative Ltd, Victoria.
For more information download ‘The Value of Housing Co-operatives in Australia’, at https://researchdirect. westernsydney.edu.au/islandora/ object/uws:75513
BY NOEL ROWSELL
RICHMOND juniors Ti Fox and Chayse Thorpe have played key roles in Concord GC winning the prestigious 2024 Golf NSW Division 1 Men’s Major Pennant title on Sunday, with both winning their respective matches as Concord defeated reigning title holders Avondale 4-3.
Ti won 2&1 and Chayse 6&5, giving both boys their first Division 1 Pennant victory.
Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) is also a member of the Concord squad, whilst team manager
is David Northey (Penrith).
The Australian defeated Concord 3.5-1.5 for the Division 1 Women’s Pennant title, with former Schofield junior Camilla Kim scoring a powerful 6&5 win for the winners.
Leonay GC won the Division 5 Men’s Pennant, but the result went down to the wire, with team captain Adam Brennen winning his match on the 19th hole to give Leonay the Pennant Flag.
With scores locked at 3 wins apiece, other members of Leonay’s and Bondi’s squads all faced a nervous wait as Adam and his opponent went down the 19th to break their 18-hole tie.
There was no such joy for Glenmore Heritage Valley in Division 3, falling 4-3 to Manly. Despite the loss, Glenmore will move up to Division 2 in 2025.
Three local juniors also competed in the 2024 Wagga Wagga Junior Masters over 24th - 25th March, with Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) finishing tied 4th outright and also tied 4th in 16 Years and over, whilst Riley Cleminson (Penrith GC) tied 35th outright and tied 17th in 14/15 Years.
In the Girls division, Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) finished tied 10th outright and 6th in 14/15 Years.
GOOD weather conditions ensured the first round of matches in the Arunga Polo Tournament were all played according to schedule, with the leaderboard for the 6 x 10-Goal teams reading as follows:
Kurri Burri and Rathgomack lead on 2 wins apiece, ahead of Arunga with a win and a draw, Jemalong a draw and a loss and The Pines and M Polo both on 2 losses.
The action continued through the second week, with 10-Goal games on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (semi-finals), and all grades will conclude on the Easter Weekend.
The updated draw can be found on both the Polo Matchmaker and Polo NSW FB pages.
SPEEDWAY racing has made a welcome and long overdue return to Sydney with an exciting relaunch event taking place at Sydney International Speedway at Eastern Creek.
The event was a success with over 3000 spectators in attendance to enjoy an exciting night of racing.
Fans were able to watch their heroes driving Fender Benders, Late Models and Sprint Cars on the newly reprofiled track that allowed the drivers to show off their skills.
Spectators enjoyed improved facilities and experienced many
exciting finishes over the course of the night.
Families were also able to ‘meet and greet’ their heroes before and after the racing, adding to the fan experience.
The evening also saw a number of Speedway ‘Legends’ in attendance including Sid Hopping, Dick Briton and Steve Brazier.
Speedway racing in Sydney has suffered when the previous government closed the Parramatta Speedway but had failed to successfully re-open the track at its new Eastern Creek location.
The racing action will continue in the coming weeks with further events scheduled for Saturday 20 April, Saturday 11 May and Saturday 25 May.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:
“The NSW Government promised to bring world-class Speedway back to Sydney and last night was the start of delivering on that promise.
“Speedway fans were able to experience the new, improved venue and we were treated to some worldclass, competitive racing.
“This ends years of frustration for Sydney speedway drivers and fans alike, who were left with no track to race on when the previous government closed the Parramatta Speedway, and didn’t successfully open the new $100 million track built at Eastern Creek. I am pleased that their frustration is finally over.
“Fans can now look forward to more exciting nights of Speedway in the coming weeks, in what we believe is the number one Speedway venue in Australia.”
THE test of a team’s character is how you respond from a loss. In the case of the Blacktown City Senior Men, the 1-0 loss at home to the Wollongong Wolves in round five was a devastating one in the clubs hunt for the 2024 Premiership. Coach Crittenden said after that match that the next few weeks will determine our character. His side responded in true Blacktown City style defeating both Rockdale and St George City on the road the next two weeks. The next test is this week when Blacktown will host their rivals Sydney United on Easter Sunday.
Following the loss to Wollongong, Blacktown hit the road to take on the undefeated Rockdale Ilinden in the ‘Match of the Round’. It was a tense encounter as Rockdale were playing to their home crowd and their local MP and NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper. Rockdale came out firing and put Blacktown in defensive mode with an aggressive attack. That was all changed when Mitch Mallia surprised everyone with a ‘Goal of the Week’ that put Blacktown up 1-0 and changed the games momentum.
Blacktown had a goal disallowed but scored again to put the visiting side up 2-0 in the second half. Rockdale hit back with their own goal but Joey Gibbs responded to give Blacktown a 3-1 lead. The final ten minutes were intense as Rockdale scored again to close the gap 3-2. Blacktown Goalie Tristan Prendergast stood tall and kept Rockdale at bay in the closing minutes. The 3-2 victory lived up to the pre-game ‘Match of the Round’ billing with its intensity and competitive spirit.
Week seven had Blacktown back on the road to take on St George City. Dubbed the ‘Battle of the Cities’ it was certainly a game for the ages as two teams turned up to play football in a thoroughly entertaining match with both looking to take maximum points and continue their climb up the ladder. Neither team could score in the first half but after the break, Tyren Burnie skipped down the right wing and crossed for Travis Major, Blacktown’s alltime leading goal scorer, who nodded Blacktown into the lead in the 65th minute. Jak O’Brien scored from a penalty shot to give Blacktown a 2-0 lead and secure the win for a 4-2-1 scoreline leading into round eight.
In the early stages of the 24 season, seven teams sit on four wins. West Sydney Wanderers lead all teams with six wins against a sole loss, followed by Marconi with a 5-1-1 scoreline. Sydney United with a 4-1-2 record to date are next up for Blacktown City as they host their arch rivals on Easter Sunday. Blacktown/Sydney United are always eventful encounters and with both teams on four wins there is key match points at stake.
Blacktown City Women are off and running in their quest to reach the Top Four in only their third season. New Head Coach, Michael Hawthorne, has his side playing good football and after four rounds sit in the top six having only dropped the one game to Central Coast. Last week Blacktown hosted Inter Lions for a 3-0 win showing they have the ability to score goals. Coach Michael Hawthorne said, “We are getting better each week as the team settles in to competing at this level. It is pleasing that our defense is solid and ability to score goals is showing very positive signs”. The Women now hit the road for the next three weeks before hosting Hills United on Sunday the 21st of April at Landen Stadium. This Easter weekend, Blacktown City Women head South to play the South Coast Flames this Saturday.
Home Game - Blacktown City FC Men VS
Sydney United – Sunday, March 31st, 3:00pm
Home Game – Blacktown City FC Men VS Sydney FC – Sunday, April 7th, 3pm
Home Game – Blacktown City FC Men VS Central Coast Mariners – Sunday, April 14th, 3pm
Home Game - Blacktown City Women Vs Hills United – Sunday, April 21st, 4pm
Home Game - Blacktown City Women Vs Marconi – Sunday, April 28th, 4pm
Go Blacktown City!
Friday,
BY NOEL ROWSELL
SYDNEY
Motorsport Park hosted a round of the 2024 Australian Superbike Series (ASBK) on Friday 22nd – Saturday 23rd March, featuring the Australian Superbikes, Superbike Masters, Michelin Supersport, Supersport 300 and bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC).
William Hunt (Glenmore Park) rode in the Supersport 300 (3 races), finishing ranked 17th for the round, whilst Elijah Andrew (Marayong), Zachary Russo (Sackville North) and Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) all raced in the OJC (3 races), finishing ranked 6th, 14th and 15th at the completion of the round.
It was a baptism of fire for the several rookies in the OJC, not only having their first race start but also racing two of the three races under lights.
Incidents in races 1 and 2 hampered Elijah, who recovered strongly to record 2 x 7th place finishes, setting a new personal best (PB) lap time in each of those races.
Race 3 was a tighter race up front,
despite the threat of rain, with position changes in most corners. Racing under lights didn’t phase the front runners, with lap times just 0.5 seconds off the track record, resulting in very close racing for the leading 7 riders. Elijah rode his 3rd PB of the round, finishing in 6th position and also finishing placed 6th for the round.
Zachary said “Racing under lights wasn’t a problem, as I’m used to drag racing at night.
“It was a huge learning curve, it being my first-ever road race and I need to work on my (racing) lines and speed in the corners.
“It was overwhelming how much goes on behind the scenes, but I found all the OJC team to be fantastic, the mechanics and coaches are really approachable and professional. I also had a great experience sitting with Superbike rider Arthur Sissis during the pit walk time, and he was a great inspiration.”
Zac said “I thought I did pretty good, as it was only my first race and 4th time on the bike. In my races I got 14th, 13th and 12th and really enjoyed racing under lights at night. It was so cool to race past the bright lights into each corner of the track.
“I improved heaps that weekend and managed to take my lap time down by 23 seconds, giving me a 2:07.1 as my best lap time. Another thing I found interesting was when they did the pit lane walk, each of us OJC racers got assigned a Superbike rider, and I was assigned Ty Lynch, Number 85.
“I was able to ask him a few questions about that weekend too ,which was pretty cool. My starts weren’t really the best but I’ll need to try and improve on that for the next race up at Queensland in April and I’m looking forward to that too.”
