Western News 2 October 2020

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Friday, 2 October 2020

ISSUE 119

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Health Wins 2020

Western Sydney Local Health District night of nights, the 2020 Quality Awards, was held recently highlighting and acknowledging the brilliant work of health heroes who are going above and beyond for the people of Western Sydney. See page 10 for full story.

Pictured: Event hosts Samantha Brett and Rob Shehadie (back left) with the People and Culture team, who won two awards with their project Workplace Wellness in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond.

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Multicultural Health Week 2020 highlights safe use of medicines for communities

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he safe use of medicines within multicultural communities is the main focus of Multicultural Health Week this year.

Research shows that people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds experience higher rates of adverse outcomes from poor medication management, including medication related hospital admissions.

Consultations with key stakeholders identified that people from multicultural communities often find information related to their medicines complex and overwhelming. There is also a lack of translated resources to help communities support the safe use of medicines. In some communities, there are also cultural practices around sharing medicines with others.

In her message at the online launch, Secretary for Health Ms Elizabeth Koff stressed the relevance of the Multicultural Week 2020 theme ‘Health Literacy and Safe Use of Medicines.

“This year has been a challenging one for all of us especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. We all need to work together to ensure our families, friends and loved ones are all safe.

The theme is particularly important

Westmead Hospital registered midwives Pratibha Dhaliwal, Nesrine Hatif, Brigitte Mcdonald and registered nurse and midwife Matifadza Gomera.

during this time. The week highlights the safe use of medicines and also the role your pharmacist has in supporting your health and safe use of medicines” Ms Koff said.

“This initiative showcases our work in delivering the initiatives highlighted in NSW Plan for Healthy Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities 2019-2023. The plan aims to ensure that people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities have equitable access to health care services that are culturally responsive, safe and high quality”.

The Week also informs multicultural

communities on the important role their pharmacist has in supporting their health and the safe use of medicine Key messages emphasise the importance of knowing: • What your medicine is for • How to take your medicine safely • The active ingredient in your medicine • That the packaging of medicines that are the same may look different It is also important for people to understand how to manage their medicines during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lisa Woodland, Director, NSW

Multicultural Health Communication Service (MHCS) encouraged all communities and health professionals to access the multilingual resources developed for Multicultural Health Week. These resources communicate the key messages about the safe use of medicines and the role of pharmacists in supporting people’s health.

“This year, we have worked in close collaboration with expert health professionals, consumer representatives from multicultural backgrounds, and valued health service partners in developing multilingual resources in close to 30 languages which highlight the how people can take their medicines safely”, said Ms. Woodland.

Resources for the week include a one-minute video which highlights the importance of talking with your pharmacist about your medicines available in 7 languages: Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, Greek, Italian, Vietnamese and English; a one-page factsheet about using medicines safely – available in 29 languages, social media posts and radio advertisements in multiple languages.

These resources are available to download for free from www. multiculturalhealthweek.com.

Blacktown City Council welcomes new citizens virtually

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ot even a pandemic can stop Blacktown City Council from welcoming new Australians, with almost 50 residents officially granted citizenship in a virtual ceremony.

Blacktown City Council would normally host one or two citizenship ceremonies every month, with often more than 350 people swearing their allegiance to Australia on each occasion, however COVID-19 restrictions have prevented the ceremonies taking place.

The Department of Home Affairs has been conducting virtual citizenship ceremonies and recently Blacktown City was delighted to welcome 44 new Australians in its first virtual citizenship ceremony.

Residents participated in 7 video conferencing citizenship sessions presided over by Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM. Mayor Bleasdale said the innovative online services were an incredible success.

“It was an immense privilege to once again officially welcome so many Blacktown City residents as our newest Australian citizens,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“I am so proud of our diverse and multicultural City, which people from 180 countries of origin now call home.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, presides over a virtual citizenship ceremony welcoming Blacktown City residents as new Australian citizens; Rooty Hill resident Waimoana Howard decorated her home for the ceremony.

“In these difficult times, it is more important than ever to celebrate what binds us together.

“Having people from all backgrounds and walks of life living alongside each other makes our already great City a stronger and better place for us all.

“I welcome our newest citizens with open arms and I am sure our community will also extend a warm welcome.”

Mayor Bleasdale was able to speak with recipients individually during the ceremonies and share stories.

Each ceremony lasted between 15 and 20 minutes, with translators assisting where required.

Rooty Hill resident Waimoana Howard was among those to take part in the virtual citizenship ceremony. Born in Fiji and now a proud Australian, Mrs Howard and her two daughters decorated the background in her home especially for the occasion to reflect her cultural background.

Along with a number of Australian flags, the background featured a ‘tabua’ (a whale’s tooth) which represented Mrs Howard’s Fijian heritage, as her father hails from

Tiliva village in the Kadavu Islands in the south of Fiji; and a traditional Tongan fine mat on the wall as Mrs Howard’s mother comes from Tongan roots in Sawana, Vanuabalavu in the Lau Islands in the east of Fiji.

The ‘tabua’ is a cultural item normally given as a gift for atonement or esteem in celebrations and funerals, while the fine mat is normally worn by women during traditional celebrations.

More virtual citizenship ceremonies are planned with a special ‘in-person’ ceremony to be held on Thursday 17 September to celebrate International Citizenship Day.

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pring has well and truly sprung in Blacktown’s city centre with a pop-up park in the Patrick Street Plaza.

The new pop-up park can be found outside Westpoint Blacktown at the bottom of the travelators.

The portable garden features natural lawn, wooden tree and flower planters, and fixed seating across four sections.

Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, recently visited the Patrick Street Plaza for the launch of the pop-up park.

“As the weather begins to warm up, Blacktown City Council wants to encourage locals and visitors to the area to enjoy the public space on offer in our city centre,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“We wanted to bring some life and greenery to the Patrick Street Plaza, as well as create a beautiful place for those who shop, work, and study in Blacktown.

“With the ACU’s Blacktown campus to open in February, thousands of students are expected to fill the city centre.

“We want the Blacktown CBD to continue to develop and grow, to be a vibrant place with thriving businesses, and this pop-up park is just one of the positive steps Council is taking

Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

Park pops up for spring at Patrick Street Plaza

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Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM, at the launch of the pop-up park in Patrick Street Plaza, Blacktown, with musicians Conrad and Tanisha.

towards creating a modern City.”

Hills Daily Grind Coffee handed out free cups of coffee to people who took part in a Community Development survey.

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Feedback on the pop-up park was overwhelmingly positive, with participants noting the installation was “beautiful”, “relaxing”, “accessible”, a “good waiting space”, and “has

improved the area”.

The temporary pop-up park will be in place until March 2021 and will host events such as Blacktown City Council’s Beats and Bites program.

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

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Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Sports Journalist: Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.wsnewsgroup.com

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From the Editor’s Desk

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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hings are looking up! Dare we imagine life without being shackled to a pandemic? At the time of going to press, NSW had been a few days with zero community cases. That’s great news, and this month we move in to a phase that is the most unrestricted period we have seen in over six months.

But it does feel a bit De Ja Vu - we’ve been here before. And the last time, just as we began to feel confident that life might return to some version of normal, Victoria brought the curtain down on us like a concrete wall.

But, quarantine failings aside, Victoria is proof that when the numbers are up, restrictions and isolation works. I sure wish some other countries would take note, their death rates are extremely alarming. It looks like it will be quite some time before leisure travel to the Northern Hemisphere is back on.

But locally, it finally looks like the things we enjoy most are beginning to appear back on the menu. We are in the most relaxed mode we’ve been in since March.

All the isolation, sanitising, cleansing, distancing, mask wearing and knuckle-greeting has paid off, and our state is a shining example of how to battle our way through a pandemic.

While it’s seemingly impossible these days to be a leader who governs to perfection, I think Gladys has come pretty close. It is hard enough to do what is best for everyone in calm waters, but she’s doing it through a tsunami.

She has steered this ship incredibly well.

I’m incredibly grateful to be from NSW, and from Australia; and more so at this time than I’ve ever been.

Of course it is important that we don’t get too lax and we keep up the social distancing measures, but let’s also enjoy our newfound freedom!

Let’s enjoy being around the people we love, support our local economy and support Australian made.

Happy days.

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

Slow down and buckle up

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rivers are being urged to take care on our roads, after the number of people dying while not wearing a seatbelt or speeding doubled compared to the same time last year.

Between March and July, 65 people died in speed related crashes on NSW roads, up from 27% of all fatalities during the same period last year to 54%, and 17 people died while not wearing an available seatbelt, up from 9% of vehicle occupant fatalities to 22%.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said we know people are staying home more due to COVID-19 but we need to make sure we do not become complacent on our roads as a result.

“Too many people are dying on roads close to home during this health crisis. Nearly 70% of those who died when they weren’t wearing a seatbelt crashed on a road in their local area,” Mr Constance said.

“These aren’t just figures, they are people. People who are missed by their families, their friends, their colleagues and their communities simply because someone decided to speed or didn’t think it was important to put on a seatbelt.”

“It’s a privilege and not a right to drive. So when you get behind the

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wheel, make the right choice – slow down and buckle up – it could save your life or someone else’s.”

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary for Safety, Environment and Regulation Tara McCarthy said that men in particular were featuring prominently in the statistics.

“Of the 65 people who’ve died in speed related crashes, 48 were men, and of the 17 driver and passenger fatalities not wearing an available seatbelt 13 were male.”

“When you get behind the wheel remember you can make choices that have an impact on yourself and other road users.”

While speeding and seatbelt related deaths were up, fatigue related fatalities were down from 15% to 8%, and alcohol related crash deaths remained steady at 13%.

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Putting the focus on new dads A

free pilot program to help new and expectant fathers through the physical emotional and mental, challenges of parenthood is being rolled out in the Western Sydney region.

The region is one of four, including Northern NSW, Northern Sydney, and the Murrumbidgee region to take part in the ‘Focus on New Fathers’ pilot program.

The program sends texts to dads, offering valuable health advice and links into pathways to ensure support options are available.

Western Sydney Local Health District Integrated and Community Health Child and Family program lead Lyn Tunchon said parenthood could be a difficult time for new fathers and mothers.

“New dads want to be able to concentrate on their partners and children at this time, and they often

Photo courtesy Getty Images.

don’t think to look after themselves as well,” Lyn said.

“Research has shown men are often reluctant to engage with the health system to get support, despite around one in ten dads experiencing depression and anxiety in the postnatal period.

“This program is about letting fathers know they’re not alone and there is support for them when they need it.”

Men living in Western Sydney can sign up if they are over the age of 18, their partner is at least 16 weeks pregnant or their

baby is younger than 24 weeks. They need to have a mobile phone capable of receiving and sending text messages.

The pilot, which is being delivered by the University of Newcastle in partnership with NSW Health, will run over the next year.

Associate Professor Elisabeth Murphy, Senior Clinical Advisor, Child and Family Health, said selfcare for new fathers was extremely important as the mental and physical wellbeing of both parents had a direct effect on their children.

“Receiving help with health issues early on ensures dads are in the best possible position to care for their new baby and partner,” Associate Professor Murphy said.

For more information, and to sign up for the program, visit: https:// www.health.nsw.gov.au/public/ Pages/focus-on-fathers.aspx

Blacktown’s Pet Festival - a great day out for all creatures great and small

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ll creatures great and small – and their owners – are in for a treat at Blacktown City Council’s annual Pet Festival.

Pet lovers should mark Sunday, 11 October in their calendar for the COVID-SAFE, 2020 Pet Festival.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, encouraged local residents and animal enthusiasts alike to show off their ‘pet pride’ at the free event held at the Café green, Blacktown Showground.

“Pets are such an important part of so many of our residents’ lives, and at Blacktown City Council we want to provide an opportunity to celebrate the joy and companionship of pet ownership,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“As an animal lover myself and a former dog breeder, I know pets have provided comfort and laughter during this difficult time, so we are delighted the Pet Festival can go ahead under strict COVIDSAFE conditions.

“This festival is also a valuable way in which Council raises awareness about responsible pet ownership.

“I look forward to seeing furry, feathered or scaly friends descend on Blacktown Showground for a great day of fun which the whole family can enjoy.”

While not all usual entertainment and activities will be held this year, the Pet Festival will still feature plenty of attractions, including dog obedience demonstrations by the Blacktown Kennel Club, free micro-chipping for Blacktown City residents, pet stalls and displays, a Blacktown Animal Holding Facility stall, roving entertainment, and a mobile dog wash.

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, entry is by ticket only and there will be three session times on the day.

Photo: Caroline Delilah Photography

• 10.00 am – 11.30 am • 12pm – 1.30 pm • 2.00 pm – 3.30 pm Entry tickets can only be secured online to comply with current restrictions of 500 people in the event per session.

Tickets are available now via Blacktown City Council’s website: blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Eventsand-activities/2020-Blacktown-City-Pet-Festival.

Date: Sunday, 11 October 2020 Time: 10am to 3.30pm, spread over three sessions Location: Café Green, Blacktown Showground, Richmond Road, Blacktown, 2148 Cost: Free, but tickets are essential

The Blacktown Animal Holding Facility delivers a valuable service to the community by providing safe housing for lost or surrendered animals to be kept while attempts are made to reunite them with their family or to re-home them.

For more information about the Blacktown Animal Holding Facility call 9839 6161 or visit blacktown. nsw.gov.au.

All patrons must agree to the following requirements before entering the 2020 Blacktown City Council Pet Festival: • use hand sanitiser on arrival and throughout the event area • adhere to all 1.5 metre social distancing requirements • have their temperature checked on arrival • sign in through the COVID-19 check in app and register on arrival • must not have a fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath • must not have • travelled internationally or to Victoria in the last 14 days • had contact with someone diagnosed with or suspected of having coronavirus (COVID-19) • been recently tested for COVID- 19 and awaiting results Applications are also open for stallholders for the 2020 Pet Festival.

Applicants should be aware only pet related products and services will be accepted.

Please complete the stallholder form located on Council’s website and email it to scott.ronan@ blacktown.nsw.gov.au.

Should you have any questions, please contact the Events Team on 9839 6000.

Woman charged over alleged hydroponic cannabis cultivation – Riverstone A woman has been charged after police located an elaborate hydroponic set-up at a house in Riverstone on the weekend.

In May 2020, detectives from Quakers Hill Police Area Command commenced investigations into the

cultivation of cannabis through premises known as hydro houses.

Following extensive inquiries, police executed a search warrant at a house in Edwards Street, Riverstone.

During the search warrant, officers found a large hydroponic cannabis

set-up in a number of rooms in the house. Police also seized 453 cannabis plants. The potential street value of the plants is in excess of $900,000.

A 45-year-old woman was arrested at the house and taken to Fairfield Police Station.

She was charged with cultivate commercial quantity of a prohibited plant and enhance indoor cultivate cannabis for commercial purpose.

The woman was refused bail and will appear at Parramatta Local Court.

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lacktown City Council has officially welcomed Australian Catholic University to Blacktown’s city centre with the opening of ACU’s Future Students Information Centre at 22 Main St. The ACU Blacktown campus has been established through a partnership between Blacktown City Council and ACU. The university will offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and pathway courses from the 22 Main St campus from next February.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, recently visited the centre and met with students from local schools Patrician Brothers Blacktown and Nagle College, as well as incoming ACU ViceChancellor Professor Zlatko Skrbis.

“This is such an exciting partnership between Blacktown City Council and ACU,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“We believe in the potential of our young people, and we believe they should have access to the best opportunities, education, and training right here in Blacktown City.

“Education is one of the most needs of our community to and currently 18,000 students travel to universities and colleges outside our City.

“With the opening of the ACU Blacktown campus, our students will no longer have to travel long distances to continue their studies.

“I can’t wait to welcome thousands of ACU students to our CBD in 2021.

“The opening of ACU’s Future Students Information Centre is an exciting step in this journey.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Professor Skrbis and Patrician Brothers principal

Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM (front centre), with (back row, left to right) Nagle College vice-captain Ai Gen, ACU Provost and incoming Vice-Chancellor Zlatko Skrbis, and Nagle College captain Cassidy Regan, and (front row, left to right) Patrician Brothers captain Flynn Broom and vice-captain Anthony Simic at the ACU Future Students Information Centre at 22 Main St in Blacktown.

Frank Chiment this week signed a letter of intent to formalise a collaboration between the two education institutions.

“22 Main St is a wonderful facility, as part of a real project that is unfolding before our eyes,” Professor Skrbis said.

“We are incredibly passionate and privileged to be here, to support the community and to ensure

that the community flourishes.”

Further redevelopment of the site is underway and is on track to accommodate students for Semester 1, 2021.

Courses will be available for study at the Blacktown campus in Education and Arts, Health Sciences, Law and Business, Theology and Philosophy.

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ACU’s Future Students Information Centre now open

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

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local COLUMNISTS Western News

2020 Quality Awards winners announced

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ix COVID-19 related projects were announced winners at the annual Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Quality Awards ceremony on Wednesday, 23 September.

Community members were able to watch for the first time as Seven News presenter Samantha Brett and actor-comedian Rob Shehadie hosted the live broadcast to thousands of viewers.

The annual recognition of staff innovations and achievements took on extra significance this year in light of the catastrophic summer bushfire season followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Teams from areas including mental health, youth health, physiotherapy and many more were recognised, and for the first time four staff members were recognised as Employees of the Year.

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy congratulated each of the 52 teams who entered projects and thanked every employee for their hard work this year.

“I have been constantly amazed by the actions and efforts of all of our staff. You have done an incredible job coming to work every day to support our patients, and equally as importantly to support each other,” Graeme said.

“You are amazing every day. Every single one of you has been working absolutely flat-out doing brilliant things and tonight is all about you.”

The winners of the 2020 Quality Awards were: • Transforming Patient Experience - Just Ask It (Auburn Hospital) • Delivering Integrated Health Care - Pathways to Community Living Initiative (Mental Health Services) • Patient Safety First - Keeping Clozapine Patients

WSLHD Executive members (left to right) Allied Health director Jacquline Dominish, Nursing, Midiwifery and Clinical Governance director Carol Farmer, Medical Services executive director Dr Emma McCahon and chief executive Graeme Loy with hosts Rob Shehadie and Samantha Brett.

Safe During COVID-19 (Mental Health Services) • Keeping People Healthy - COVID Street Fighters (Youth Health) • Supporting Our Teams - Workplace Wellness in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond (People and Culture) • A Safe and Healthy Workplace – Contain the Contagion! A Clinical Mission to Eradicate Transmission (Integrated and Community Health) • Innovation and Research – PPE Predict (Infection Prevention and Disease Control)

• Education and Training – Flipping COVID Facedown (Physiotherapy Department, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals) • Chief Executive Award – Workplace Wellness in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond (People and Culture) • Board Chair Award – Keeping Clozapine Patients Safe During COVID-19 (Mental Health Services) The ever-popular People’s Choice Award received more than 16,000 votes online, and the winner was Newborn Education and Skills Training.

Mudgee, a nest in the hills

Cheese board at Gilbert’s

By BEN CRANNEY

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hey got it right when they named this place.

Mudgee, possibly coming from the Wiradjuri term for contented. That’s certainly how we felt when we left. Wine, beer, food, markets and outdoor adventures: there’s plenty to do.

We enjoyed woodfired pizza at di Lusso, followed by tastings at Pieter van Gent and then Farmer’s Daughter. I tried desperately to think of sophisticated questions to hide my cluelessness while my mate effortlessly navigated the talk of aromas and flavours.

One menu advertised a wine I’d never heard of, a rose, pronounced like the flower. ‘May I have…’ I started asking. Then I realised that it was just Rosé.

Trying too hard.

The best option, though, was a cheese board at Gilbert’s. Sandstone walls mixed with corrugated iron, sitting on a hill on the outskirts of Mudgee, surrounded by a few fires pits where Pip Sumbak, of

Pubs of Mudgee

Masterchef fame, prepares the $70 three course meal.

Unfortunately, we missed it, but the cheese board was more than ok. I managed to correctly order the Rosé, specially fermented in the bottle to give it an almost soft drink fizz. To my uncultured palette, that made it go down far too easily.

If you like a bit of alcohol tasting, but are like me and judge a wine solely on price against flavour, your next stop (or maybe your first), should be a beer at the Mudgee Brewing Company. They do their beer on site, coupled with great pub food. It’s refreshing stuff, not least because you don’t have to talk about malt and hops.

There’s plenty of other things to do as well. Pick up a few bits for a picnic at the Mudgee markets, held in

Exploring the main drag

the church yard, before heading to the dam for a bit of water skiing. Or if you like your picnics pre-prepared, go to the food and wine festival, which is on now.

It’s a food and winery walkabout kind of event and it’s just close enough to Sydney to make a weekend of it. For another tour, take the Wallaby Track Drive to visit sites associated with Henry Lawson, who, despite various jail sentences for minor things like being drunk, was the first New South Welshman to be given a state funeral for being a distinguished citizen, for his contribution to Australian culture through his poetry and short stories.

Contented or not, this isn’t actually where I wanted to write when I said last time that Australia is my favourite place. I’ll share that another time.

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ecoming a nurse had never entered late to learn something new. We chatted, Lori Phegan’s mind. Neither had and the nurse told me about taking a career cancer – it didn’t run in her family change at the age of 40 and how she never and she checked her health regularly. looked back.

But at 47, Lori’s life took an unexpected “This was a turning point. Before cancer, turn when she found a lump in her left breast.

I never gave much thought about the depth Soon after the discovery in June 2019, she of knowledge a nurse must have. Watching was diagnosed with a malignant tumour. all these amazing nurses care for me made “The week in between receiving my me realise how much we often take their diagnosis and having an initial consultation hard work for granted.” in Westmead Crown Princess Mary Cancer Just before the finish line of her cancer Centre was the worst week of my life,” Lori treatment, Lori enrolled in an 18-month said. “I was shocked and scared, I didn’t TAFE course in nursing. know anything about cancer. I didn’t know if “Cancer made me re-evaluate everything I was going to survive. in my life,” she said. “I realised that people “After just one hour meeting with Dr going through such challenging treatment Kavitha Kanesalingham in Westmead, I need care and I can give this care to them. immediately felt relieved. She reassured me “Having a first-hand experience like mine that treatment options are very progressive gives you a totally different perspective. and I had great chances of recovery.”

You really understand why patients are After completing six sessions of cranky, moody or even aggressive.

Lori smiles with staff after a radiation session at Blacktown Hospital last year. chemotherapy, Lori underwent lumpectomy “Once you’ve been through it yourself, surgery in Mount Druitt Hospital in November sense of humour. Things like that make such a huge you’re in an empathetic state. Patients don’t need 2019. difference for your journey.” sympathy from health care workers. They need “I felt so grateful for all the support I received.

Lori finished her treatment with 17 sessions someone to come and say `I know how you’re Doctors and nurses who worked with me were of targeted Herceptin therapy and 25 sessions of feeling right now, but you will get through it’.” absolutely amazing,” Lori said. radiotherapy in Blacktown Hospital. In the midst Lori started her first nursing placement in “Usually when people find out you have cancer, of all this, one particular day stood out when she August. She is now cancer-free, continues to run they don’t know what to say except `I am sorry’. noticed her 50-year-old nurse wearing a “student her successful online business and care for two “But I was done with being sad! I’ve always loved nurse” badge. children. In the future, she wants to specialise in a good laugh so I appreciated when my surgeon – “’Aren’t you too old to be a student, darling’? I oncology and ensure a better quality of life for those Dr James French turned out to have the greatest asked the nurse. She laughed and said it’s never too battling cancer, like she once was.

State-of-the-art welding academy opens in Blacktown City

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state-of-the-art facility

which offers specialised welding training has opened in Blacktown City.

Fabinox Welding Academy, a registered training organisation, is providing local ‘tradies’ the opportunity to upgrade their skills and qualifications during these difficult employment times brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The newly-refurbished centre in Riverstone offers Certificate III training in Engineering Fabrication and Welding (MEM30319) and a range of other courses.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, paid a visit recently

Mayor Bleasdale at the Fabinox Welding Academy in Riverstone.

to the new training facility; “It is wonderful that Fabinox is investing in jobs and the future of young people in Blacktown City.”

“At Blacktown City Council, we believe in the potential of our young people, and we believe they should have access to training and

employment opportunities right here in our great City.

“The Marsden Park, Schofields, Riverstone area is going through massive residential and industrial development. The development is providing job opportunities and this facility can provide the training locally that’s needed for some of those jobs.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Fabinox Welding Academy features 13 training bays, a 15-seater classroom, 2 virtual reality machines, and 1 real weld machine, and can cater for up to 50 students at one time across the difference courses.

For more information visit: fabinoxweldingacademy.com.au

Motoring enthusiasts – cruise for charity More than 150 enthusiasts’ cars and motorcycles will be on show on Saturday (3 October) in a cruise for charity from Eastern Creek to Riverstone.

The ‘Cruise 4 Better’ is staged by the Street Life automotive lifestyle organisation in conjunction with Blacktown City Council, raising much needed funds for the Better Foundation, which supports Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.

The cars and bikes will assemble at Eastern Creek in the morning for judging and then ‘cruise’ to Riverstone Village shopping centre for a ‘Show and Shine Display’ - a three-hour festival of cars, music, food and family

friendly activities.

All proceeds from entries and raffles on the day will go to the Better Foundation which raises funds for vital equipment, research and training at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “This is a great opportunity for motoring enthusiasts to showcase their ‘Pride and Joy’ and for families to have a fun afternoon while raising funds and supporting our hospitals.”

This is a COVID SAFE event and strict requirements for entrants and spectators will be in place. All entrants and spectators must register to attend or take part in the ‘Cruise 4 Better’ and

‘Show and Shine Display’.

Car registration link is www. automotivelifestyle.com.au/Events

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

Breast cancer survivor’s inspiring journey to nursing

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

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WESTERN HISTORY

Western News

“Old Buffer” George Thomas Bennett T

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

he name “Old Buffers” came to my attention several years ago when I was a friend of Albert “Bert” Evans from Kingswood.

He became a Life Member of the first St Marys Historical Society when I was Secretary. We would go out into the community to interview the old folks of the district who would reminisce, and we would record and write it all down for posterity. Bert came from the United Kingdom and became an amateur historian. He would go into Penrith Library and look up the Nepean Times on the microfiche and write down in his notebook anything that he thought would be interesting regarding our local history. He was very generous with his information and some of it became part of the Historical Society’s records during those early years. In May 2011 in the History Page, I wrote about the Buffers and their cricket matches. I am sure that the youth of the district at that time only saw them as “old farts” trying to play cricket then off to the Protestant Hall for dinner and a booze up.

But one hundred years ago, in 1920 there was a happy gathering at St Marys for the proposed recognition of George Bennett’s services to the fraternity. The Nepean Times article starts by referring to some of the University undergraduates and their antics in Sydney which seems to have “gotten up the noses” of the Old Buffers to the effect that it was said by the oldies, “from the time a lad goes into long pants, to parading the room nightly with a young hopeful on his arm, he is having the time of his life. Fun and hearty laughter is his common lot until the time when he is married he becomes gloomy and sighs during the rest of his life”. Apparently, that was all nonsense they said! “Because a man can be a hoary-headed old patriarch and still smile like a frivolous young girl, and he can be well on in life and yet be as merry as the youngster at a picnic.” As beyond a shadow of a doubt when the St Marys’ Old Buffers met at their famous rendezvous in Victoria Park to celebrate another reunion, the buoyancy of the old ‘uns and their conviviality were as effervescent as a lively ginger beer and it would have been a delight back then to witness the jolly good fellowship that dominated the whole proceedings. When Old George met Old Bill or Old Jim or Old Joe they talked about the days when they were mischievous young “shavers” in the town, where they tied jam-tins onto dogs’ tails or removed somebody’s signboard to distant fields, or played other pranks on law-abiding citizens – yes, even the Police, and they talked about early reunions recording with pride, their own or another Buffer’s prowess with bat and ball that would remind them of their dear departed friends and thoughts of good men gone. The Buffers were delighted to find that their genial hard-working Secretary and friend George Bennett was once more among them appearing little or none the worse for his illness that was serious enough to put him into Lewisham Hospital. Cases of illness (mostly the flu) among the Buffers was the cause of many of their reunions being cancelled or moved to a different month. They lamented that a Buffer reunion without George would be like “a home without a mother”. While he was in hospital and convalescing, his role of Secretary was carried out by a “young” old Buffer, George’s son Montague “Monty” Bennett, a worthy “chip of the old block.”

The 1920 reunion cricket match had a time limit due to the start of a 4 pm competition football match, but in any case the Buffers value of the reunion cricket matches was more for the fund of enjoyment

 His wagon works in Queen Street in St Marys courtesy of the Bennett family.

and recreation than for any sporting results attached to it. The town band played good music during the afternoon and Joseph Armstein conveyed the visitors from the railway station at St Marys to the Park and return - free of charge. The banquet was chaired by Richard T Ball (M.L.A. & ex-minister for Works) and an ex-St Marys’ resident.

He spoke about the pleasure it gave him to respond to the request to preside as Chairman and believed it was 27 years since the Old Buffers started and 60 of them had passed on. He reminisced as a lad back to his early days in St Marys associated with some of the Buffers who were present, promising them it would be very interesting. He remembers the association with James and George Bennett when they would play some queer pranks as lads. At that time they had a function that was carried out religiously every New Year’s Eve when every person in St Marys had to sit up all night and watch his gate or sign and there was a time when it was almost impossible to protect men against the inroads that us lads were making against their signs and gates.

He remembers a policeman coming to the rescue on one occasion and assuring the people concerned that they have nothing to fear and advising them to go to bed as it would be alright in the morning. He remembered that the policeman at that time rode a horse with a shoe that clicked. Us lads divided up into two gangs where we would be able to tell where the policeman was by the click and needless to say we got one over on the policeman after his assurances that nothing would be disturbed, because he lost his own gate on that occasion.

He lamented the lost of many of the Buffers, but other Old Buffers he hoped were coming along and he was sure that those who were in the movement in the first place were glad to see so many present for the purpose of keeping up the reunion associated solely with St Marys.

He also hoped that they all would join in hoping that George would be restored before long to his usual health and strength but he understood that George recognised that he would have to give up his position as Secretary of the Buffers as he was leaving the district”. Songs were sung and toasts were given to George, the Buffers, the two Captains, Mr Armstein and the Chairman. George responded and thanked them for the testimonial, and he hoped to return for future reunions. The singing of the National Anthem concluded the proceedings. George died in Sydney in 1944. Photo of his wagon works in Queen Street in St Marys courtesy of the Bennett family. NOTE: Bert’s Buffer Book is for sale via email on our website.

Sources: Trove, BDM Online.

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Western News

local news

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B

lacktown City has lost one of its greatest servants with the passing of Dr Russ Dickens OAM on Tuesday at the age of 91.

Dr Russ Dickens OAM was first elected to Blacktown City Council as an Independent Councillor in September 1980 and served on Council until 2016.

He served a 1-year term as Mayor of Blacktown City in 1987 and was elected Deputy Mayor in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM paid tribute to his former colleague saying: “During his 36 years on Council, Russ served with energy and passion on numerous advisory committees, including those responsible for Historical and Companion Animal issues.

“Just days ago, Council presented Russ with the Key to Blacktown City – the City’s highest honour.

“Dr Russ Dickens will be remembered fondly not only for his service on Council, but much more than that for his outstanding service to the Blacktown Community and his lifelong contribution as a vet and passionate advocate for animal welfare,” said Mayor Bleasdale.

Dr Russ Dickens was one of the first veterinarians to study disease in koalas and provide clinical management

advice. He was a founding member of the Australian Koala Foundation.

His dedication to animal welfare was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia in 1992, being recognised in particular, for his research with koalas.

He established the Blacktown Veterinary Hospital in 1966 and the building remains one of the best-known landmarks in Blacktown.

In 2013, Russ Dickens was awarded both the University of Sydney Faculty of Veterinary Science Alumni Award for Community Achievement, and the University’s overall award for community achievement.

Dr Russ Dickens also served with the Salvation Army and Rotary in Blacktown and gave many hours of voluntary work in the Blacktown Animal Holding Facility.

“Dr Russ Dickens is truly a great man who demonstrated a passionate commitment to the people and community of Blacktown and to the welfare of animals.

“Our deepest condolences go to his wife Lorina, their children Sue, Helen, Jenny and Rowan and their extended family,” said Mayor Bleasdale.

Dr Russ Dickens OAM was honoured for his services to animal welfare

Service nsw check-in solution goes live statewide Checking in at venues across the State is about to get easier and safer for customers and businesses, thanks to the NSW Government’s check-in solution going live Statewide, following a successful trial.

The Service NSW app has been retooled to include a QR code to allow customers to check in at hospitality venues and Service NSW Centres across the State, ensuring contact tracers can quickly access customer details and keep people safe.

Minister for Customer Service Victor

Dominello said customers should download the latest version of the app.

“Customers can already use their Service NSW app to complete a number of transactions, so it makes sense for them to be able to use it to check-in to venues as well,” Mr Dominello said.

“The app is safe, easy to use and helps NSW Health officials contact customers quicker in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak by providing them with more accurate records.

“The check-in automatically captures the date, time and location,

and securely stores them on a NSW Government database for the sole purpose of contact tracing. After 28 days, the data is destroyed.

“We will work closely with industry to encourage them to adopt our QR code. The service is free for businesses, and helps them comply with their obligations under the Public Health Orders.

“This is another example of the government delivering data infrastructure to help customers and businesses get on with day to day life

as we navigate a safe path through this pandemic.”

Almost 400 businesses participated in the trial in Dubbo and at a number of NSW venues owned by hospitality group Merivale. The trial was subject to an independent privacy review and its findings supported the decision to proceed with a Statewide rollout.

More than five million customers have a MyServiceNSW Account and about 2.2 million customers have the Service NSW app on their mobile phone.

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Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

Blacktown mourns the loss of Dr Russ Dickens OAM

Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

14

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

R

Western News

Relaxed lending rules to boost access to finance

elaxing lending rules and improving access to finance are necessary to encourage more first-home buyers and kickstart the economy amid the COVID-19 outbreak, experts from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) said.

A recent HIA study shows that along with the weak population growth, strict access to finance to build a new home is the major drag on housing and economic recovery.

The federal government recently announced that it would simplify bank lending rules to stimulate the

economy. Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said while credit has become cheaper due to the low interest rates, many would-be borrowers are still prevented from accessing finance due to tight regulations.

The changes will ease the regulatory burden and reduce the cost and time faced by consumers and small businesses seeking to access credit, the flow of credit is critical to Australia’s economic recovery.

For the most part of 2020 because of Covid-19 we have seen many banks temporarily change their home loan application process due

to the widespread disruption to many Australian incomes from the coronavirus fallout. Casual employees or contractors had difficulty or were not considered for a mortgage under the bank’s new rules.

Banks will still have to maintain appropriate application procedures and there is a mutual responsibility on the customer to supply accurate and truthful information when applying for a loan.

It is important to remember that mortgage brokers have the knowledge, experience and relationships with the many lenders and are necessary

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Western News

SPORT

T

he Blacktown Relay for Life Committee is creating a means for local families, teams, neighbours and workmates to raise funds in a Covid-safe, fun and hopefilled way for Cancer Council NSW. Labelled Relay Your Way, the event will be hosted throughout October on the Blacktown Relay For Life Facebook page. It will end with a Hope Ceremony on the evening of Saturday, November 7th during which participants can light candles and pause to pay tribute to loved ones lost to Cancer.

“Support and advocacy services provided by Cancer Council NSW are in very high demand. However most of our fundraising activities have been severely restricted, with staff and volunteers really having to think outside the box to produce alternatives, almost on the spot,” committee member Fiona Scully revealed to Western News.

“My role is to produce a Survivors

Fiona Scully prepares to film her Welcome to Survivors & Carers Day for Facebook.

(Better photos of the entertainers are available but may have previously been used on social media. Certainly, I can ask them for an exclusive photo if that would suit.)

and Carers Day for Saturday, October 17th from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. It will be a day full of pre-recorded entertainment and activities to join in, providing opportunities for

participants to seek sponsorship for having a go.”

Entertainers will include Aquarius Dancers, Belly Dance teacher Nadia Mihova with daughter Jasmine, soloist

Rebecca Verrier and students from DT Performing Arts.

Activities will include yoga, baking, a stretch & warm-up session, craft activities and a belly dance class.

We are also featuring a tutorial from Abagail Florist on taking care of the flowers that many survivors receive as get well gifts.

This will all be available to the general public to watch online.

Western News readers are encouraged to register to participate for a $25 donation at https://www.cancercouncil. org.au/relayforlife/events/it0001163/ The first 50 to Register as a Cancer Survivor or Carer will receive a gift bag of surprises with resources to help them join in the activities on the day.

We are especially thankful to St George Bank, Accru+ Chartered Accountants and CEA. The $25 registration will go to Cancer Council NSW to continue vital research, support & advocacy.

“Cancer doesn’t stop, so neither do we,” Fiona concluded.

Remembering our fallen Blacktown Police Officers

Anniversary of the murders of NSW Police officers Sergeant 1st Class William RILEY and Sergeant 3rd Class Maurice McDIARMID at Toongabbie, 30 September 1971.

T

he 30th September 2015 marks the anniversary of the murders of Blacktown Police officers Sergeant 1st Class William RILEY and Sergeant 3rd Class Maurice McDiarmid .

On the evening of the 30 September 1971 the then Sgt 2nd class Riley and Senior Constable McDiarmid attended a home in Mimosa Avenue Toongabbie to investigate a report that a man had shot his brother to death at the address.

When they arrived, through the front door of the premise, they saw a man, the offender Clarke, run to the rear of the house. Senior Constable McDiarmid went to the back of the house whilst Sergeant Riley entered the house through the front door.

When Senior Constable McDiarmid entered the back door, Clark opened fire with a shotgun, inflicting a fatal wound on Senior Constable McDiarmid. Clarke then moved through the house to the front of where he encountered Sgt Riley whom he shot and killed. Although Senior Constable McDiarmid was still alive when other police arrived, he died a short time later on route to hospital.

The offender Clark was shot and killed by police in Hillview that same day.

On the day of the murders, Police Commissioner Norman Allen stated “It is a very sad day for all those who believe in upholding the law and order.”

Both officers were posthumously promoted for their outstanding courage

and devotion to duty, Officer Riley from 2nd class to Sergeant 1st Class and officer McDiarmid from Senior Constable to Sergeant 3rd Class They were jointly awarded the Peter Mitchell Trophy and George Lewis memorial Trophy by the then Commissioner of Police, Commissioner Norman Allen for the Most Courageous Act by a member of the Police Force in 1971.

A commemorative plaque is mounted at Blacktown Police Station and a plinth has been erected at the entrance to the memorial Rose Garden of the NSW Police Academy, Goulburn The plinth features two police caps, one right side up and one upside down, indicative of the way the officer’s caps

fell on the ground following their murder.

The inscription reads “For the people”.

On the 5th October 1971, two gun carriages bore the flag draped coffins of both officers to the Church of England in Blacktown. More than 400 officers attended the funeral ceremony and slow marched behind the cortege as the officers were taken to their final place of rest at Pinegrove Cemetery.

Both officers were laid to rest in a gardened plot, each with a plaque bearing their names and inscription “Doing His Duty”.

Both Sergeant 1st Class William Riley and Sergeant 3rd Class Maurice McDiarmid made the ultimate sacrifice for the community.

Western News 2 October 2020 Issue 119

Western news exclusive: Relay your way!

15

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 2 October 2020

Athletes and volunteers return to Blacktown Olympic Park memories of triumphs, smiles, hard work and snakes!

20 years ago, the City of Blacktown was a major player in the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Blacktown International Sportspark was then called Blacktown Olympic Park and was the venue for the Baseball and Softball competition as well as Athletics training.

Blacktown Aquatic Centre was also an official training venue for a number of Olympic swim teams.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “Our City’s contribution to the success of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games was immense, and the Sydney Olympics put Blacktown on the world stage.”

To mark the 20th anniversary, two of the athletes, the venue Police Commander at the time, an Olympic volunteer and Mayor Bleasdale, returned to the Olympic site and recalled their strongest and fondest memories of September 2000.

When Fiona Crawford retired from representative softball in 2007 she had played 223 games for Australia, competed at two Olympic Games, three World championships and was on teams that won gold, silver or bronze medals at 28 international tournaments.

(L-R) Venue Commander Bob Fitzgerald, Bronze Medallist Fiona Crawford, Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Olympian Glenn Williams and volunteer Kate Fitzgerald at the scene of the Olympic Softball series. Fiona, Glenn and Kate are all sporting their original Sydney 2000 uniforms and Kate is holding Fiona’s Olympic Bronze medal.

Fiona was Australia’s starting second base for every game at the Sydney Olympics; “My career highlight at the Games was when we beat the USA in the 13th inning in the early rounds of the competition.”

“My proudest moment was being presented with the Olympic Bronze Medal in the pouring rain by AOC President John Coates,” enthused Fiona.

Glenn Williams is a dual Olympian and a 15-year professional in baseball including appearances with

the Minnesota Twins in the United States MLB, and was manager of the Blacktown International Sportsparkbased Sydney Blue Sox in their inaugural season in 2010.

“My proudest moment was making my debut for Australia at the age of 23 in the first game of the Baseball series at the 2000 Olympics here in the Blacktown Olympic Park.” Williams said.

Glenn went on to win a Silver Medal with the Australian Baseball team at the Athens Olympics in 2004.

Chief Inspector Bob Fitzgerald from Blacktown Police was the Venue Commander at the Blacktown Olympic Park in 2000.

“The Sydney Olympics were held under the tightest security ever seen in Australia,” explained Chief Inspector Fitzgerald.

“In the 18-months leading up to the Games we staged mock terrorist raids, tested security systems over and over again and carried out risk assessments on every possible threat, except one.

“Just a few days before the first game at the softball stadium we discovered a nest of brown snakes not a hundred metres away.

“From then on, we employed a snake catcher full time for the duration of the Games. I think that was an Olympic first.”

“My greatest memory of the Games was spending my off-duty hours as an Olympic volunteer with my wife Kate,” said Bob. Kate Fitzgerald spent days at the Olympics as a volunteer.

“It was the most fantastic experience of my life. I just remember that everyone was smiling all the time. My greatest moments happened every time Australia won an event,” said Kate.

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