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Western News PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Friday, 6 August 2021

ISSUE 141

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PAWGUST

While lockdown is keeping most of us at home, exercise is important and a great way to exercise with your pooch and raise money for Guide Dogs during August is PAWGUST. See page 8 for full story and fundraising details.

Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

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Featherdale celebrates 49th Birthday with new baby jabiru

oonside’s iconic Wildlife Attraction, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, celebrated its 49th birthday recently with the hatching of three healthy Jabiru eggs - the first for the parks’ 40year plus history of caring for Australia’s only native species of stork. Zookeepers at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park are delighted at this incredible milestone in native bird conservation, especially coinciding with the parks’ 49th anniversary of its opening, on Saturday 22 July 1972. Featherdale’s breeding pair of Jabiru (Black Necked Stork), are the only pair of its kind on the East Coast of Australia, and one of only two in Australia. ‘We are so excited to welcome three healthy Jabiru chicks to our collection, and all the chicks are doing so well.’ commented the Park’s MD Chad Staples (IG: @zookeeper_ chad) who has shared video of the hatching on his popular Instagram account. Established on seven acres of land originally purchased by Charles and Marjorie Wigg in 1953, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park has evolved from a family farm into one of the best privately own wildlife parks in Australia.

The Wigg’s daughter Margaret and her husband, Bruce Kubbere who had studied Australian fauna, opened Featherdale as a wildlife park on 22 July, 1972. During its’ 49 years, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park in Western Sydney has become well known for its conservation programs and has provided millions of visitors with the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of iconic Australian animals and birds. These include many threatened and vulnerable species including koalas, Tiger Quolls, the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby, Tasmanian Devils and the Plains Wanderer.

Health Orders force cancellation of family favourites The extended stay-at-home Health Orders have forced the cancellation or postponement of many popular community events right across Blacktown City. Heading the list of cancellations is this month’s Family Fish-in at Mount Druitt pool and next month’s rescheduled Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival. Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said; “Blacktown is one of the 8 Local Government Areas of concern and as such is facing tighter COVID -19 restrictions. “The health and wellbeing of our residents is always Council’s number one priority and therefore we are cancelling or postponing all gatherings, events and festivals while the current stay-at-home Health Orders are in place.” The Blacktown City Family FishIn, originally scheduled for two weekends this month, will no longer

go ahead this year and community festivals in Tregear, Bidwill and Kings Langley have also been cancelled. The Doonside Festival, currently set for 2 October, may be postponed to later in the year, whilst the Woodcroft Festival has been postponed to 18 December. “Council has taken the responsible actions necessary and we have closed all our Leisure and Aquatic Centres, Libraries, Art Galleries, Halls, plant nurseries and Community Centres,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Council is maintaining all our essential services. We are still collecting the rubbish from homes and businesses, cleaning public areas and maintaining parks and reserves. “And we are still welcoming new citizens to our City through a series of virtual Citizenship Ceremonies starting this Saturday, which will see hundreds of residents swear allegiance to Australia over the next

2 months.” Council operated Kids’ Early Learning centres remain open and the Blacktown animal holding facility is continuing its operations by appointment only. Blacktown Libraries’ online services remain available to borrow e-Resources, stream and watch movies, listen to music, access study resources and children’s resources. Council will proceed with the following events, pending the easing of current COVID-19 restrictions: • Willmot Festival • Blacktown City Pet Festival • Blacktown City Garden Competition • Youth Ambassador Programme • Quakers Hill Festival • Christmas Concerts • Mount Druitt Festival • Diwali Lights Competition • Mayoress Christmas Gift Appeal. “The only way we are going to end

the lockdowns and beat the virus is to stay at home, wear a mask when you are away from your home, get tested if you have any cold or flu symptoms and get vaccinated.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines for year 12 students in south west and western Sydney

fizer doses are being redistributed to south west and western Sydney due to the need to vaccinate Year 12 students in the LGAs most affected by the current COVID-19 outbreak and reduce the risk of the virus escaping into the regions from one of their household contacts, such as an authorised worker. Up to 40,000 Pfizer doses will be allocated from NSW Health’s rural and regional supply of COVID-19 vaccine to help Year 12 students in south west and western Sydney get back to school for face-to-face learning on 16 August. The Pfizer doses will be sourced from supplies across rural and regional NSW to ensure no one area is impacted. GPs continue to supply Pfizer vaccinations in regional NSW, and their supplies from the Federal Government are unaffected by this reallocation. AstraZeneca remains available from GPs, NSW Health clinics and a growing number of pharmacies.

NSW Health can assure those in regional NSW who have had a first Pfizer dose they will receive their second dose. The growing outbreak of the Delta strain in Sydney is a major threat to our regional communities. Increasing the number of people who are vaccinated, even with their first dose, not only protects people from serious illness and death but also reduces the likelihood someone will acquire and spread the virus. Clinical evidence shows a significant reduction in transmission of COVID-19 following vaccination. The likelihood of household transmission was reduced by about 50 per cent three to four weeks following vaccination. Anyone in rural and regional NSW with an existing booking at a NSW Health clinic who has not yet received their first Pfizer dose will be contacted as soon as possible if their booking is going to be impacted.

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(L-R) Lyn Pederson and Bruce Pederson with Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale, at the Pederson’s Lalor Park home which won the 2020 Blacktown City Garden Competition’s ‘Champion Garden’ award.

lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM is encouraging residents to take advantage of a number of Council services and competitions and “Get Creative” during the very difficult times of lockdowns and restrictions. “Council is determined not only to maintain essential services during these challenging times, but also to provide opportunities for residents to make productive and creative use of the extra time they have at home,” Mayor Bleasdale said. “I’m encouraging talented writers to enter the Mayor’s Creative Writing Prize and residents with a green thumb

should be entering the Blacktown City Garden Competition.” Entries in the 2021 Mayoral Creative Writing Prize are now open to adults and children aged 8 years and above who live in Blacktown City. The Creative Writing Prize is conducted by WestWords and entrants are required to write fictional works, either a short story or poem, in response to this year’s theme - ‘The only way is’.

Entries close Sunday 3 October 2021, with winners to be announced at a presentation ceremony in December. Council is on the hunt for the best gardens in Blacktown City across 13 categories, including, Best Sustainable Garden, Best Themed/ Novel Garden and Best Australian Native Garden. The 2021 Blacktown City Garden Competition includes a new entry category of Unusual/Interesting

Plants for the quirkier gardens out there. Entries are now open with preliminary judging to take place in September. “In addition, Blacktown Libraries and Blacktown Arts have a huge array of online services available to residents ranging from borrowing e-Resources, stream and watch movies, listen to music, access study resources, children’s resources, online exhibitions and workshops.” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Creative Writing Prize - www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-and-competitions/2021-Mayoral-Creative-Writing-Prize Garden Competition - www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Community/Awards-scholarships-and-competitions/Blacktown-City-Garden-Competition

Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

Blacktown City residents - get creative during lockdown

Western News

Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 General Manager: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Sales: Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 Sports Journalist: Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 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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Level 1, Suite 101C, 130 Main Street, Blacktown PO Box 8525, Blacktown NSW 2148 (02) 9671 4780 Michelle.Rowland.MP@aph.gov.au MRowlandMP www.michellerowland.com.au Authorised by Michelle Rowland MP, Australian Labor Party, Suite 101C, Level 1, 130 Main Street, Blacktown NSW 2148

From the General Manager’s desk By BART BASSETT

t certainly is unusual times we live in. With Covid, lockdown, home schooling and businesses struggling more than ever, we have decided to provide a positive forum to focus on the fantastic and resilient businesses in western Sydney. One of our advertisers, Alex from Wealthwiz, called us and suggested we celebrate business in western Sydney to support them through this incredibly difficult time and we have taken up his idea. The daily 11am Covid briefing keeps telling us we are all in this together, but in reality the people telling us that have had a secure job and guaranteed income throughout this pandemic. Many people have had their hours cut back and all the financial support programs in the world won’t make up for real lost income. When it comes to business many have overheads far greater than any of the support programs offered by the federal and state government. We all know how important western Sydney is in feeding and supporting all of Greater Sydney in the manufacturing, food, logistics and construction sectors, which sustains us all. At Western News we have kept going all the way through this pandemic including both lockdowns. Like all small businesses, it has been quite a challenge. Many in the print media space ceased publications altogether and others only came into being after the first lockdown. We have continued to put the community first by ensuring there are some inspiring stories, and also keeping our readers informed during this once in a 100 year event. We feel for many of our supporting advertising partners who have had to cease normal operations during lockdown. All those clubs, pubs, restaurants, grooming and retail stores and so many other businesses who employ so many people. We really do understand how hard the last 18 months has been for all of you. So we want to hear from all those small, medium and large businesses who have a story to tell. Let us know how you started, what you do, the people you employ and your future plans and outlook. We want to tell the community about you and in so doing inspire all of us that the future looks bright because, without a positive outlook by small and large entrepreneurs there are no jobs and there is no future for any of us. So let’s cheer on our local businesses; the backbone of our society. Please send your business story of 400 words to nepeannews@aol.com

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Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

First-of-its-kind role in NSW

boriginal people have better health outcomes when another Aboriginal person is involved in their care – which is why Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has a new role dedicated to recruiting and supporting Aboriginal health practitioners. Simone-Cherie Holt is the first Aboriginal health practitioner program lead in NSW. Having spent the past 11 years supporting Aboriginal students at the University of Sydney, her new role is dedicated to bringing Aboriginal health practitioners to WSLHD. “An Aboriginal health practitioner’s role is to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples accessing our services, throughout all stages of their healthcare journey,” Simone-Cherie said. Simone-Cherie said it’s important to acknowledge the current and historic injustices that still affect many Aboriginal people accessing healthcare services today. “This is where Aboriginal health practitioners have a real opportunity to use their amazing skillset and knowledge to bridge the gap in our healthcare system. “They can be a constant in someone’s healthcare journey, improve relationships, improve the

quality of treatment and overall improve outcomes,” Simone-Cherie said. “They also bring a unique perspective and can encourage their team to see things in a different way. I truly believe no-one means to be culturally incompetent but they don’t know who to ask. “Aboriginal health practitioners increase the cultural capacity of our services and add true value to their team. They really make a difference, and that’s what working in health is all about.” To learn more about becoming an Aboriginal health practitioner or bringing an Aboriginal health practitioner into your team, email SimoneCherie.Holt@health.nsw.gov. au.

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Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

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Is your dog a larrikin on a leash? Take the quiz

alking your dog should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but for many, it can be a tedious task that often discourages daily walking. To kick-off the PAWGUST fundraising campaign, Guide Dogs Australia have released a quiz to help owners identify and tackle the most common misbehaviours dogs display when walking. Take the quiz – is your dog a larrikin on a leash? www.pawgust.com.au/pawgustquiz PAWGUST encourages dog owners to walk or run their dog every day in August to raise vital funds for the breeding and training of Guide Dogs who will assist people with vision loss to maintain and build their independence. PAWGUST participant Darcie Hayward is walking for the second year with her Alaskan Malamute, Sora. “My brother Lachie has vision loss and just recently got paired with his first Guide Dog, named Eddie,” said Darcie.

“I witnessed the growing connection Lachie and Eddie have; getting a Guide Dog has been life-changing for him. I love participating in PAWGUST because the money we raise by just walking with my best friend Sora goes towards these incredible dogs.” Guide Dogs Trainer’s top tips Guide Dogs Australia Trainer

and are generally caused by something exciting in the environment which is rewarding your dog.” “Each behaviour requires a similar approach to training. For high scenting, teach the dog to check in with you by rewarding them when they look at you. Perhaps let your dog have a particular sniff zone where they can sniff to their hearts desire.” “For the pups that pull on leads, teach them that forward movement is only allowed when there is no tension on the lead. Stop every time they pull and change direction.” “Taking the time to train your dog consistently each day is key. PAWGUST is the perfect opportunity to start your training, and you’ll be supporting a worthy cause at the same Carolyn Rose says PAWGUST is a time.” Sign up to PAWGUST great opportunity for owners to spend Walk or run your dog every day in time strengthening the bond with their August and raise much needed funds dog and refine some behaviours. “The most common misbehaviours for Guide Dogs Australia. The funds dogs display on walks www.pawgust.com.au/20DBO0 are high will help breed and train Guide Dogs scenting, pulling on the lead, and dog who will provide vital support services for people with vision loss. distraction,” Carolyn says. Sign up at www.pawgust.com.au “They are natural dog behaviours

TAFE NSW helps mum honour late son with nursing diploma

errie Whitby’s life changed forever in 2019 when her son Harrison tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle accident. Harrison was only 17 and just 10 days shy of collecting his HSC. Instead, his 14-year-old sister Arabela bravely stood beside his Hawkesbury High School classmates and collected Harrison’s accolades in his stead. “I decided at that moment to push myself. I wanted to stand up at the end of 2020 and collect my Diploma of Nursing in his honour,” Kerrie said. Despite her incredible loss, Kerrie found a measure of solace in study, and with the support of her teachers at TAFE NSW Kingswood, completed her diploma with flying colours. Earlier this year, she was nominated for 2021 Vocational Student of the Year at the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Training Awards. “I found studying during COVID-19 rough, but it only made me more determined to succeed and make my teachers proud,” Kerrie said. “I have gained a better love for myself as a person through this journey. Juggling personal grief and study was hard but it only made me stronger and hungrier for success. Sometimes the pressure felt too much, but the TAFE NSW teachers were always there for me. There was such an amazing network of support.” Kerrie, who lives in Ebenezer with husband Tony and daughters Arabela and Tilly, now works at the Day Surgery Unit at St John of God Hawkesbury District Health Service. “I enjoy how in the Day Surgery

Kerrie Whitby (fourth from left) at the Western Sydney Training Awards with her daughter Arabela (front) and colleagues from the St John of God Hawkesbury District Health Service (l-r) Deb Upton, Melissa Jory, Fiona Montford, Toni Harrison, Kerrie Hopping and Martin Tulan.

Unit we form a circle of care, which involves many health care workers, to treat a patient,” Kerrie explained. “Working and being part of an effective team is vital, and the practical skills and work experience I gained at TAFE NSW are essential in my current role. You need everyone coming together as a team to help save a life.” Nursing Teacher Mohamed Helmy said Kerrie had impressed her teachers and fellow students at TAFE NSW Kingswood. “Her support of others despite her own personal hardship reflects her unique character and her great passion for the nursing profession,” Mr Helmy said. “Kerrie had been an operating theatre assistant and an assistant in nursing, so she had more knowledge than some of her classmates. She took real pride in supporting them whenever she could and won the admiration of both staff and students.” Kerrie’s daughter Arabela, who is in Year 10, is now determined to follow

her mother’s example and undertake a school-based traineeship with TAFE NSW as the first step toward a career as a theatre nurse. “I needed to show my girls what it meant to keep living,” Kerrie said. “I’ve already inspired Arabela to pursue further study and I have TAFE

NSW to thank for helping me achieve that. I want people to know you can do anything you put your mind to.” Explore hundreds of courses and pursue your passion with lifechanging training at TAFE NSW. For more information visit www.tafensw. edu.au or phone 131 601.

Kerrie Whitby with her late son Harrison, husband Tony, and daughters Tilly and Arabela in happier times on a trip to England.

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his media announcement replaces the proposed celebration of the 2021 Rotary Inspirational Women’s Awards – RIWA - at Parliament House, Sydney, and is presented by Press Release due to COVID restrictions. Blacktown locals, Rose Lewis (Urban 18- 30s category) and Isabelle Moutia (Health category) have been named as finalists. Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales, as Patron, has presented a message to celebrate and support the announcement of the finalists. The NSW Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, The Honourable Bronnie Taylor MLC, announced the 20 NSW 2021 finalists for RIWA, proudly presented by the Rotary Clubs of NSW. Mrs Taylor said the Awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine a light upon the enormous contribution of women in both urban and rural communities across New South Wales. Mrs. Taylor thanked all who submitted nominations this year, which are increasing each year. The judges, comprising panels of Rotarians from across the State of NSW, have expressed how the high quality of nominations have made

their task very challenging and a wonderful honour. “Each and every finalist is fully deserving of recognition for the tireless and generous work they do in their communities. They give so much and ask for nothing in return and I congratulate them on their nomination,” Mrs Taylor said. Go to www.riwa.com.au to hear more from Bronnie Taylor MLC. Ms Lynda Voltz, MP, Member for Auburn and the NSW Legislative

Assembly said “We have endured some challenging times over the past few years and in many cases, it has been women who have stepped up to hold both their families and their broader communities together.” Go to www.riwa.com.au to hear more from Lynda Voltz MP. RIWA Chair, Rae-Anne Medforth is joined by our Awards Ambassador, Louisa Hope and the RIWA committee in extending their congratulations to each of our finalists.

Finalists come from country locations, including Dubbo, Casino, Sawtell, Cessnock, Batemans Bay, Bega, Millingandi and Bermagui. Urban finalists include those from the Sydney area, Newcastle, and Wollongong. The RIWA committee is currently organizing an Awards Ceremony to be held on 19 September 2021. Full details will be announced and circulated as soon as they are confirmed.

Western Sydney Allied and Oral Health professionals get COVID-19 vaccination training in state-wide first

s the demand for COVID-19 vaccinations ramps up across the state, more health professionals are being allowed to administer COVID-19 vaccinations into the arms of people from across NSW. Oral and allied health staff from across the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) have been taking part in training for deployment across our COVID-19 vaccination clinics – including the new mass vaccination clinic set to open at Qudos Bank Arena. WSLHD is the first in the state to receive the new training designed by the University of Sydney and COVID-19 program lead Naomi Van Steel said the overnight turnaround was something to be proud of. “In such uncertain times, people continuously go above and beyond to ensure the safety of the community,” Naomi said. “NSW Health announced the policy change on a Monday, and by the Wednesday, we had a large pool of eager candidates from Allied Health and Oral Health ready to undergo training. “Our nurses are working day-in and day-out to ensure we can vaccinate as many people as possible. This will help us ramp up vaccination delivery

to the staff and wider community.” The face-to-face training allowed staff to learn not only the theory behind the vaccination but the practical elements as well. “In NSW, registered nurses and medical officers have been the only workers eligible to administer the COVID-19 vaccination. But thanks to this great initiative, more and more highly skilled health professionals are able to get involved,” Naomi said. “I am so proud that our first training group are already out in the vaccination clinics vaccinating people under the supervision of a nurse immuniser. “We are now looking at expanding the program out to final year allied health and nursing students and then bringing them into the team to help

administer vaccines.” Aboriginal healthcare worker and Blacktown Hospital physiotherapist Cameron Edwards participated in the training program and said he will be forever thankful for the opportunity to be part of the COVID-19 vaccination team. “As an Aboriginal health care worker, I feel a sense of responsibility to be a leader in my community,” Cameron said. “When Allied Health professionals in NSW were recently granted the opportunity to train in administering COVID-19 vaccinations, I jumped at the opportunity. Nurses and doctors have been working day-in and dayout, trying to vaccinate as many eligible community members as possible and I want to help them.

“People look at me and think I am young and bulletproof, and yes, I may not be at a high risk as other people in the population. But my nan isn’t bulletproof, my mob isn’t bulletproof, and the nation as a whole is not bulletproof. “Getting vaccinated is about more than yourself. You need to think of the bigger picture and think of the ones you love the most.” Cameron is joining the WSLHD vaccination outreach team and will be helping to vaccinate the vulnerable communities of western Sydney.

Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

2021 Rotary Inspirational Women’s Awards finalists announced

Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

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Western News

Living kidney donor reflects on his sacrifice for a loved one

udden and unexpected is how Dineish Nallainathan described finding out one of his closest loved ones was in end-stage kidney failure. “They went in for blood tests for something unrelated, and that is when they found out,” Dineish said of his loved one who was happy and healthy up until this point in time. “After a lot of research and tests – I knew what I wanted to do.” Dineish is a living organ donor. He bravely put his hand up to donate his kidney in a procedure at Westmead Hospital last year. After seeing the suffering his loved one was going through, Dineish knew it was the right thing to do. “Like anything, you always think of the risks and the ‘what if’s’ – but I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t go through with it,” he said. “The benefits and the quality of life I was giving my recipient outweighed every doubt I had. “The support we received from the transplant team at Westmead Hospital was second to none. They answered all my questions and helped my family and I throughout the whole process.” Since the procedure, both Dineish and his loved one are back to enjoying life the way they should. “Seeing my recipient doing things they weren’t able to do before makes me so happy. “Organ donation saves lives and improves their quality of life. In the case of kidney patients, once they receive a transplant, they are no longer hooked

Living kidney donor Dineish Nallainathan. Photo: DonateLife

up to a machine for 12 hours a day, and can do so many things that they couldn’t do before. “This could mean a simple thing that most of us take for granted in life, like going to the park to kick a footy or running up the street with your kids.” Off the back of his kidney donation, Dineish started a support group, One Kidney Club Australia, for other living kidney donors, potential donors and their families.

“I want people to know that there is support out there, and support from people who have been through, or are in, a similar situation”, he said. “Everyone’s journey is different, but all of us in the support group have a common goal – to help others. “We are now looking at distributing care packs to living donors in hospitals. This will be a small token of appreciation to be given to kidney donors immediately after their surgery to recognise their ultimate act of kindness to save someone’s life.” This week is DonateLife Week. Australians are encouraged to register to be an organ and tissue donor and to have a chat about it with their family and friends. Dineish said that for him, becoming an organ donor was about helping those who can’t help themselves. While living organ donation may not be suitable for everyone, but you can sign up to have your organs and tissue donated after you pass away. “The gratitude from the people who have received organs is unbelievable. They embrace their second chance at life and give it their all,” Dineish said. “One person can save up to 7 or 8 people. I would encourage everyone to look into it and sign up today.” This year’s theme is the Great Registration Race with DonateLife racing towards 100,000 new registrations. For more information, if you’d like to register to become a donor or check if you’re registered, go to www.donatelife.gov.au/join-register

Western Sydney University helps HSC students take the stress out of applying for uni next year

ith the school year once again being affected by COVID-19, Western Sydney University is giving Year 12 students who find their HSC studies disrupted by the pandemic the choice and flexibility of being able to use their Year 11 results to gain entry to the University next year. The University’s highlysuccessful HSC True Reward early offer program is again giving current Year 12 students the option of using either their HSC results or their Year 11 results as part of their University application. The University is taking careful steps not to undermine the importance of the HSC, with the offers being made on the condition that students successfully complete their HSC exams. First launched in 2017, True Reward provides students with an early offer to Western Sydney University based on their HSC subject results. The innovative program recognises that students are much more than their ATAR, with analysis by the University revealing that subject performance – which best reflects a student’s strong points and areas of interest – is a robust indicator of a student’s success. Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said the HSC True Reward program is providing school leavers and their families with much-needed peace of mind, during what

is another challenging year for school students. “With the evolving COVID-19 situation continuing to have an impact on schooling, particularly at the moment in Greater Sydney, we want to be able to relieve students of some of their concerns or anxieties about disrupted exam preparations and what this means for gaining entry into their preferred university course for next year,” said Professor Glover. “By once again incorporating the option of using Year 11 results in the HSC True Reward early offer program as we did last year, we are helping to take some of the stress out of the application process, so students can focus all their energies on successfully

completing their studies and doing well in their final year exams.” Professor Glover said Western Sydney University, ranked within the top 2 per cent of universities worldwide, has a long and proud history of opening up higher education opportunities for students and developing pathways for hard-working, capable students and fostering their potential. “We recognise just how much of an impact the last 18 months and the uncertainty brought on by the pandemic has had on students’ senior years of schooling,” said Professor Glover. “We want to ensure that the COVID-19 situation does not derail Year 12 students’ exam preparations, and prevent them from gaining access to their course of choice at our world-class University and ultimately fulfilling their future career ambitions.” Western Sydney University will provide school leavers who have applied through HSC True Reward with an offer as early as August 2021, as part of four offer rounds throughout the remainder of the year. Students can find out more about Western Sydney University’s HSC True Reward program by visiting www.westernsydney.edu.au/hsctruereward In addition to HSC True Reward, students can learn about the range of support services and scholarship opportunities offered by the University by contacting 1300 897 669.

Western News

WESTERN HISTORY

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

n interesting inquest was held at Penrith Court of Petty Sessions in 1951 by Mr A E Stonham (Penrith District Coroner) into the death of James Arthur Brookes aged 27 who lived in Coogee. James was standing on the running board of a car being towed by another car when it was struck by a jeep utility travelling in the opposite direction on the Western Highway near South Creek bridge. The evidence at the hearing indicated that when the running board was hit where James was standing it “bellied out” around the doors and threw him off onto the street. Robert Leslie Rowles who lived in Clovelly Road at Randwick stated that about 7.15 pm he drove his father’s Ford car from Sydney to Penrith accompanied by three men, James Brookes, Athol Roy Hain and Clifford Leslie Willis. They arrived in Penrith and went to the Nepean Hotel at Emu Plains where they stayed until about 9.50 pm and they all consumed about four glasses of beer each in 8-ounce glasses and then they went on to the Log Cabin and had three or four glasses of beer there. When they left the Log Cabin Robert said he was not affected by the liquor consumed, “well not very much!”. They then continued onto St Marys when they saw a car pulled up on the side of the road and a man (known as Mr Glover) was leaning into the engine trying to fix it. They got out to give him a hand and managed to get the car going and attached a tow rope to both cars. James Brooks was standing on the offside of the running board, Clifford Willis was steering Mr Glover’s car with Mr & Mrs Glover inside and Athol Hain was standing on the other side running board for the purpose of telling them how the towing was going as they continued towards St Marys. It was confirmed that the highway at that time was made up of a bitumen strip with gravel sides and where at times the nearside wheel of the car might have been on the gravel, but, at no time did the vehicle move over to the southern (the incorrect side) of the centre line and the headlights were on the whole time and prior to the accident no other vehicle was on the road. Coming towards St Marys they saw a Jeep utility come around the bend just before it came into contact with the car, and they had noticed the headlights on the Jeep about 100 yards away and that the lights of the vehicle seemed to be on the correct side of the road and coming across the road on the wrong side in a gradual curve towards them. They tried to move over to the left-hand side but couldn’t go far owing to the low speed they were doing, so as the Jeep came towards them they felt a bump hitting the side of the doors and found James lying on the roadway. The jeep was driven by William James Davies of Penrith and was the subject of a manslaughter charge who pleaded not guilty to a charge of driving a vehicle negligently on that occasion. Detective Killen said that about 1.30 a.m. he received a message at Penrith and went along the highway to St Marys and on the eastern side of the South Creek Bridge he saw the scene of the accident. He interviewed William James Davies the Jeep driver and asked him how the accident happened, but William replied that he didn’t know because it all happened quickly, and he didn’t know how he ended up on the wrong side of the road? But he did say that he crossed the line to take the turn at the bridge because “you have to cross the line to take the turn”. One of the five witness’s Mr Begg, said that he had travelled on the roadway extensively and he had never found it necessary to cross the centre line to take the turn, but William replied, “that 99% of drivers do”. When asked about his speed William stated he wasn’t watching the speedo but thought it was about 30 mph and he wasn’t dazzled by

 Photo courtesy of Penrith Library

the lights. The Detective then asked William that even though he was only 100 yards from the cars when he first saw them he should have had ample time to avoid a collision? William replied again it all happened so quickly and he didn’t know whether to swing to the right, or left, or brake, but Mr Begg asked him why he didn’t swing left from them to which William replied that he could see other lights behind and he didn’t know whether there was another car trying to overtake them or not. The Detective stated that as he shifted the Jeep into the police station yard he applied the foot brake and pumped the foot brake pedal without effect and on the night in question there was no fog as it was a clear and starry night and that stretch of the highway had street lighting. The Detective had noticed that William’s breath smelt strongly of stale liquor and both of William’s eyes were extremely bloodshot, and he could see from the damage to the two vehicles it would appear that he swerved into the car. He knew William who was an industrious businessman who could partake of liquor but did not drink a lot because of his ulcer. He was a man of good character who also had cataracts in both eyes. Mr Corcoran who was Council for William stated he had advised his client not to give evidence and the evidence of the principal witness for the prosecution (Mr Begg) must be discounted to a great extent due to his condition on the evening in question. On the final day of the inquest Ronald George Barrett a garage proprietor of Penrith said he was present when the wheels of the Jeep utility were removed, and he made an examination of the hydraulic braking system of each wheel. On the offside rear wheel there was a seepage of hydraulic brake fluid from the two-wheel cylinder caps. On the other three wheels there was no liquid whatsoever. In his opinion, the liquid he saw was a slow leak that could cause a sudden failure and in a small cylinder if often happened that could be a sudden failure without the driver having any warning of it. The Coroner and the Detective both agreed with Ron Barrett but William was convicted and fined £15 and £3/2/- was added as witness expenses but William was later acquitted. Source: Nepean Times.

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Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

Fatality at St Marys 1951

ENTERTAINMENT

Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

Internationally-acclaimed performance event Truth to Power Café comes to Blacktown this September

lacktown Arts and London Artists Projects present Truth to Power Café, an internationally-acclaimed performance event by son of the Hackney gang, Jeremy Goldstein. After celebrated seasons in six countries, and recent shows at Adelaide Festival Centre, Riverside Parramatta and Brisbane Powerhouse, Blacktown Arts will present a season of performances of Truth to Power Café this September. Truth to Power Café comes to Blacktown as part of the British Council UK/Australia Season 2021-22, and it’s No Borders World Tour 2020/21. Truth to Power Café is a profound theatrical reflection on time, place and community. Told through memoir, poetry, music and film, it conjures up voices of loss, hope and resistance. The Guardian describes Truth to Power Café as ‘The revolutionary potential of theatre at its simplest and most direct’. The Blacktown community are invited to take part in the event by speaking passionately from the truth of their lived experience in response to the question ‘who has power over you and what do you want to say to them?’ Blacktown Arts are calling people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs with authentic stories to submit an application through the Truth to Power Café website. Select participants will be invited to perform their stories in September. A participant from Manchester said, ‘Truth to Power Café was freeing – sharing my story and meeting people with their own stories was a great experience’. See information regarding application closing dates and EOIs below. DATES AND TIMES Website for EOI submissions: https://blacktownarts.com.au/whats-on/performance/truth-to-power-cafe/ EOI applications are NOW OPEN PERFORMANCES: Performance dates and times will be announced at a later date. Applications close Friday 27 August

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Refined gracefulness (8) 5 12.5 percent (6) 9 Thankful (8) 10 Sensual (6) 12 Complete confidence in a person (5) 13 Protector (9) 14 Paper fastener (6) 16 Jagged (7) 19 Pampers (7) 21 People who govern (6) 23 Deep-rooted (9) 25 A type of sword (5) 26 Hot and humid (6) 27 Happened (8) 28 Fail to fulfill a promise (6) 29 Amaze (8))

down 1 8 8 8 8 (6) 2 Assessed (9) 3 State of watchfulness (5) 4 Break into fragments (7) 6 First (9) 7 Reddish brown dye (5) 8 Vacations (8) 11 Augments (4) 15 Vibrating (9) 17 A loose high-necked blouse (9) 18 Scribe (archaic) (8) 20 Dispatch (4) 21 The state of being crimson in color (7) 22 In England, it’s a spanner (6) 24 Fully developed (5) 25 Bearskin (5)

solution 23/7/21

Western News

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

urbulent does not even begin to describe the recent resurgence of COVID so far. As a result of COVID-19 many thousands of Australians were affected in 2020 with changing employment conditions, reduced work hours and some unfortunately became unemployed. Both the state and federal governments tried to minimise the economic effect of the coronavirus in 2020 and as it sets in again in 2021 have provided support for many Australians. People who are self-employed or contractors are in a unique situation, many experienced challenges when it came to taking out home loan applications before coronavirus. Bank policies will continue to change as banks shift from helping existing customers to protecting their loan books with new customers. Considering all that has occurred, lending rules haven’t changed drastically for self-employed borrowers, however lenders are requesting additional income documentation to ensure your business hasn’t been impacted by COVID. What documents are required? The requested documents may differ from lender to lender. Here is the list of documents that can assist you to speed up your loan process. • The last two years financials including your personal returns, company returns, business profit and loss statements and financial statements. • A Business Activity Statement (BAS) with periods of the most recent financial statements to application date. Usually, a minimum of 2 quarters of statements are required. • Business bank statements. The bank statements need to show deposits evidencing consistent trading income. The statement must be no older than 14 days at the time of submitting the application and 6 months history is usually required. • An accountant prepared business projection for the next 12 months. The accountant letterhead or cover letter should have information on projected revenue, projected operating expenses and projected net profit. Major changes in home loan policies for selfemployed borrowers. To reflect the impact of the restrictions due to the

COVID-19 pandemic has had on self-employed Australians, many lenders are restricting the maximum amount they can borrow to 80% of the property value. This policy change affects both self-employed owneroccupier and investment home loans. However, please note that there are plenty of other lenders who can still consider higher LVR (loan to value ratio) loans. In addition, some lenders now require a COVID-19 impact statement where you’re required to outline: • The effect of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) on your business. • What contingency plans do you have? • How will you manage existing fixed business costs from your current cash flow? • What level of cash reserves do you have to meet wages and loan repayments? What are the high-risk industries? Lenders will be far less likely to rely on unstable income types in these industries, for example casual, contract, temporary, seasonal, commission, overtime or bonuses which may not be consistent into the future. Specific industries that were affected by the coronavirus the most: • Retail • Tourism • Airlines • Hospitality • Entertainment However, if you can provide a detailed explanation of consistency in income, along with the latest 3 months bank trading statements, annualised turnover and ensure the business is trading at the same level as the previous financial year, we might be able to help. Are low doc options still available for self employed borrowers? Yes, low doc home loan options are open still for self employed borrowers even during the COVID pandemic. However, due to the pandemic, many lenders have made a few adjustments in lending policy like limiting maximum loan to value ratio (LVR), reducing maximum loan size, etc. How to improve chances of getting an approval? Lenders will ask you more questions on the

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impact of the coronavirus pandemic on your business. • What is the nature of the business? • What is your business structure? • How has your business been affected by the coronavirus pandemic? To what extent has it been affected? • Has your role in the business been affected? If yes, to what extent? • Has your business received any government assistance in 2020 or is currently receiving assistance due to COVID. • What type of loan are you applying for? • Has your income position changed since the time of application? • Do you expect any reduction in income in the future? • Do you have plans to continue to meet your loan repayment obligations through this crisis? The answers to these questions are mitigating factors of your risk as a borrower and improve your chances of home loan approval. What are some tips to get approved as a selfemployed borrower? • Make sure your business is not adversely affected by COVID. • Have detailed business plans on how you are planning to sustain the business even during the pandemic. • Continue to Lodge BAS on time. • Make sure there is revenue flowing in your business banking statements. • Provide as much information as you can to your broker. Are you self employed and looking for a home loan? Wealthwiz can actively assist you in navigating your current situation. So, if you’ve been thinking about reassessing your finances, simplicity, flexibility and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is self-employed or contractor and looking to apply for a home loan. Got a question? Call Alex on 0419 600 177 for advice who can help you navigate the home loan market for self-employed borrowers. Wealthwiz is here to help.

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Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

How To Get Approved As Self Employed Borrower During COVID?

Western News 6 August 2021 Issue 141

Western News

SPORT

Clubs announce squads for Eric Apperly Shield Pennant Competition By Noel Rowsell

he 2021 Eric Apperly Shield (21 Years & Under) has been postponed to October but each of the local Golf Clubs involved this season have released the names of players in their respective squads. Penrith GC, Stonecutters Ridge GC and Richmond GC are all fielding strong teams and will play in different sections, only gaining the right to claim western Sydney bragging rights over each other if they happen to meet in the playoffs. Penrith will play in Section 1, alongside Concord, RydeParramatta, Pymble, St Michael’s (Gold) and Lynwood. Stonecutters will play in Section 2, alongside New South Wales, Cumberland, The Australian (Red), Lakeside Camden and Killara. Richmond will play in Section 3, alongside Manly, St Michael’s (Silver), Bonnie Doon, The Australian (Blue) and Oatlands. Stonecutters Ridge GC: Harrison Wilde - Age 19, Hcp +2, Current Club Match-play Champion, Men’s Major Pennant Representative and SRGC Elite Level Representative**; Kade Webber - Age 16, Hcp 0, Former Junior Champion, Men’s Major Pennant Representative and SRGC Gold Level Representative**; William Blomley - Age 19, Hcp +1, Undefeated in Men’s Major Pennants 2021 and SRGC Country Elite Level Representative**; Ryan Cadle - Age 16, Hcp 2, Current Junior Champion, Men’s Major Pennant Representative and SRGC Gold Level Representative**; Maddy Hagerty - Age 19, Hcp 0, Ladies Major Pennants and 1st appearance in Eric Apperly; Darcy Mackay - Age 14, Hcp 1, has represented SRGC in Junior Pennants, 1st appearance in Eric Apperly and SRGC Gold Level Representative**; Raymond Costello - Age 20, Hcp 2, current and former Eric Apperly representative and SRGC Gold Level Representative**; Cooper Ison - Age 14, Hcp 8, has represented SRGC in Junior Pennants and now as a development player in Eric Apperly, SRGC Silver Level Representative**

Cooper Ison & Raymond Costello. Photos supplied by Steve Baird (SRGC)

Richmond GC: Josh Beardsmore (c) - 1st representative appearance for Richmond GC, Mason Gounder - has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Ti Fox - current RGC junior Champion at Richmond and has previously represented Lynwood CC in Junior Pennants; Reggie Papps - Has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Fred Peters - has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Charlton Carter has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Ben

Izzard - has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Patrick Murphy - has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly; Archie Peters - has represented Richmond in Junior Pennants and now Eric Apperly. Penrith GC: Josh Gadd (+4 handicap) and has already had two starts in Australasian Tour Events; Blade Gadd (+2 handicap) is also in the Penrith squad, having elected to bypass college golf in the US this year due to Covid; Blade has represented Penrith in Junior, Major and Eric

Apperly Pennant competitions; Blake Murray (-2 handicap): has represented Penrith in Junior., Major and Eric Apperly Pennants; Michael Organ (-2 handicap) has represented Penrith in Junior, Major and Eric Apperly Pennants; Patrick Edenborough (0 handicap) is representing Penrith for the first time; Connor Hamilton (0 handicap) is in his second representative year with Penrith in Eric Apperly; Lachlan Baker (-6 handicap) has represented Penrith in both Junior and Eric Apperly Pennants.

Warren & Gibson Shield cancelled & Super Seniors postponed Golf NSW has advised the cancellation of both the 2021 T.L. Warren (B Grade) and W. Gibson (C Grade) Pennant competitions, which had been rescheduled to begin on 16th August. The extended lockdown in Greater Sydney, coupled with tee time pressures currently being experienced by all Metropolitan clubs, has been the final straw and both competitions have been cancelled for the second

successive year. Local clubs affected by the cancellation are Leonay GC, Penrith GC, Wallacia CC, Springwood CC, Twin Creeks CGC, Richmond GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC. Golf NSW has however advised it hopes for a bigger and better 2022 for both competitions. The Super Senior (over 65’s) Pennant committee has taken a much bolder approach, having far more

flexibility in programming due to midweek games. Martin Gallagher, captain of the Super Senior Pennant competition said “At the Committee meeting held on Friday 30th July, due to the lockdown extension, it was decided to postpone the start of the 2021 Pennant, so that Round 1 will now commence on Monday September 13. “This will necessitate a renegotiation of some of the rounds, so a new draw

will be posted as soon as completed. “We overcame similar issues last year and are hopeful of doing so again this year, so we seek every Club’s patience and most importantly, their commitment to participating in the 2021 Pennant. The local clubs impacted by the Super Senior Pennant decision are Penrith, Glenmore Heritage Valley, Wallacia, Springwood, Richmond, Twin Creeks and Stonecutters Ridge.

Western News

SPORT

he 2021 NPL season has been put on hold due to the current Covid lockdown deployed by the NSW Government. Football NSW had no other option than to put the NPL 1 Men’s competition on hold until further clarification by the NSW Government. Current indications are that the lockdown will be in place for the remainder of August and it will than be a decision by Football NSW and the NPL clubs as to whether the competition will be completed. After 17 of the 22 round NPL 1 Men’s competition, Blacktown City had emerged as the clear leader on the table tallying eleven wins, three losses and three draws for a total of 36 points. Second on the ladder is Sydney United with nine wins, three losses and five draws for a total of 32 points. Third and fourth on the ladder are Rockdale and Manly United who have both amassed a total of 27 points each. If the 2021 competition is unable to be completed on the pitch, Blacktown City is hopeful they would be declared the winners after 77% of the competition had been completed and Blacktown City clearly on top of the table. That will be a decision for Football NSW after further clarification by the NSW Government on the state of the current Covid crisis. Blacktown City Head of Football, Mark Crittenden, said, “It is unfortunate the lockdown for Covid occurred when it did as we had been doing well on the pitch and building momentum to take out the 2021 Premiership. We hope to get back to complete the season but that will be determined by the length of the current lockdown in NSW”. “Our team was gelling into a cohesive unit and the play of Travis Major, as one of the top goal scorers in the competition was well supported by the entire team. We are currently on top of the goals scored on the season with 36 and more importantly we have only allowed 17 goals to lead that category as well”, Coach Crittenden added. Blacktown City Chairman, Bob Turner, added, “After a rocky start to the season, Blacktown City had been on a roll with only five rounds to complete the season, so the timing of the current Covid lockdown was unfortunate. I am hopeful the delay does not hinder our momentum but all teams are in the same position. The one plus is that the break in play has helped some of our key players like Sean Rooney and Mario Shebow recover from some injuries and will be ready to go in the final weeks if we are given the chance to play”. “We were also in line for the next round of the Waratah Cup and most importantly had just drawn a game against A League Club Central Coast Mariners in the next round of the FFA Cup. The crowd base we have been developing throughout the season would have had a huge lift with a home game against the Mariners, if that game comes to fruition,” Turner added. The next few weeks will determine the fate of the 2021 season not only for the NPL1 Men’s competition but all levels of play. Blacktown City have been impressive in almost all divisions and all players and coaches are eager to get back on the pitch. Whether that can occur will be determined by both the NSW Government and Football NSW.

Western News 6 August June 2021 Issue 141

NPL 1 competition on hold

Western News

SPORT

Friday, 6 August 2021

Jessica Fox wins debut C1 in Tokyo By Noel Rowsell

essica Fox, the four-time Women’s C1 World Champion is now the debut C1 Canoe Slalom Olympic Champion, following an outstanding win in the event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Starting as the last competitor to race in the 10-woman Final, Jessica rowed a flawless race to completely dominate her rivals and claim the first-ever Women’s Gold Medal in this event at an Olympic Games. Jessica finished 3:64 seconds ahead of Mallory Franklin (Great Britain), who claimed the Silver medal and 6:09 seconds ahead of Andrea Herzog (Germany), who claimed Bronze. Fox later told Channel Seven she was physically sick before the event. “Twenty minutes before the final I thought I felt good, but then I went and threw up,” Jessica said. “I’ve never felt that nervous before a race.” But Jessica said it was an amazing feeling to be an Olympic champion. “So much emotion, so much joy, so much builds up to this moment. “It’s just incredible. I’m grateful to everyone who helped me get to this

Photo: Angelos Zymaras for AOC Media

point, because it’s a really special moment.” Jessica had begun her Olympic program earlier in the week in the Women’s K1 and performed brilliantly to be the fastest qualifier through both the heats and the semifinal. Unfortunately, her run in the

Final would not rise to those earlier lofty heights, with two penalties spoiling yet another fast run to drop her back to third spot and the Bronze Medal. “I went through all the emotions today! Proud to win an Olympic bronze medal,” said Jessica.

“It wasn’t the perfect run I was chasing but I really fought hard and gave it everything, so I’m lucky and grateful to be on the podium and cherishing this third Olympic medal. Congratulations Ricarda Funk (Germany) and Maialen Chourraut (Spain).”

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