Western News 6 December 2019

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Friday, 6 December 2019

ISSUE 99

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Christmas Countdown

Welcome to December, the countdown until the big man arrives has begun!

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Saints sharing the dignity this Christmas

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ach year St Marys Rugby League Club partner with a community organisation or charity to help those less fortunate at Christmas time. This year, the Club has chosen to support the amazing work of “Share the Dignity” and their “It’s in the Bag” Christmas Campaign.

Why this charity? Over 85,000 women across Australia will find themselves homeless this Christmas. Many have fled from domestic violence or experienced extreme poverty, and like many women, will put the needs of others ahead of their own, especially at Christmas time.

How can you help? The Club is asking Members and visitors to St Marys Rugby League Club to help by donating a good condition, pre-loved handbag (one you would happily give to a friend) and fill it with life’s every-day necessities. 7 essential items need to be included in the handbag – toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant and sanitary items.

In addition to the ‘essentials’ items, why not add a couple of things that would make a woman feel special, like a new lipstick or purse and then include a thoughtful note or Christmas card to show that someone cares.

The bags will be collected from Saints on 6th December and delivered in time for Christmas to homeless shelters and domestic violence shelters within our region that have registered with the Share the Dignity. If you can’t get there by the 6th you can drop them at your nearest Bunnings up until 12th December.

Find out more by heading to the what’s on page on the website at stmarysleagues.com.au Find out more about Share the Dignity at sharethedignity.com.au

(L-R) Nicola Green from Share the Dignity and Madelaine Caruana from Saints Marketing Team.

Blacktown city centre is knit bombed to raise awareness

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Margaret McDonald (left) and Karen Hickman (right) of the Zonta Club, join Blacktown Deputy Mayor Julie Griffiths at the official launch of the Violence awareness knit bomb installation in the Blacktown Village Green.

ver a thousand colourful squares have been wrapped around trees in Blacktown’s Village Green to raise awareness of domestic and family violence.

Blacktown City Council’s Women’s Advisory Committee has partnered with the Zonta Club of Cumberland West to highlight the issues surrounding domestic and family violence. The Zonta Club is an international service organisation with the mission of empowering women.

Blacktown City Council Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, said the knit bomb is part of Council’s commitment to raising awareness of domestic and family violence.

“Under the stewardship of our Deputy Mayor, Councillor Julie Griffiths, groups of women have been coming together for a ‘knit in’ for the past six months,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“Together, they have shared stories and knitted over 1,100 colourful squares which were used to ‘knit bomb’ the trees in and around the Village Green.”

“The project highlights the issue of family and domestic violence as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, a campaign to challenge violence against women and girls,” Deputy Mayor Griffiths said.

The installation will run until Friday 29 November. Every weekday between noon and 2.30 pm there will be members of Zonta at the Village Green to answer questions and encourage people add orange personal commitment ribbons to the installation.The woollen squares will eventually be sown into blankets which will be distributed to local charities.

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Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

Blacktown’s new business skills program gets tick of approval

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Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale, OAM addresses welcomes new businesses to Blacktown City

lacktown City Council welcomed more than 120 business owners to a special event last week to support new businesses in the City.

Council also launched its Business Success Program at the event – giving all business owners and their staff an opportunity to up-skill themselves.

The training program sponsored

by CGU Insurance will give more businesses a chance to learn about financials, people management,

digital marketing and other key skills in workshops with expert trainers.

As part of the ’Welcome to new businesses’ event, established local business groups offered support, provided information and networked with business people who started businesses in Blacktown City in the last 12 months.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale, OAM said “Blacktown City Council is committed to being a

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valuable resource for business. The Business Success Program is just one more step, and could be a real boost for many businesses.

“Blacktown City is rapidly transforming into a modern and exciting place to live, work, study and play.

“We can all benefit by discovering the services, networks and advice that are available to our business community,” he said.

Blacktown Business Network

chairperson, Robyn Atkins said: “It was an excellent evening. It was a great opportunity for everyone to come together and find out what’s available in Blacktown City.”

“It’s easier when you know what’s out there than to be a new business leader on your own,” she said.

For more information on the Business Success Program visit: Council’s business website - www. blacktown.nsw.gov.au/business Email: ED@blacktown.nsw.gov.au

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

ho can believe that we are in December already? Every year it seems that Christmas rolls around quicker than it did the year before and once again we are just weeks away from the big day.

Which brings us to thinking about our shopping list, who we need to buy for, how much to spend, and can we think of anything more exciting or original than socks or hankies?

There’s another thing to think about this year while wondering if Nan has used all the bath soaps and perfumes she got last year, and that is that it is important to shop local.

Whilst there are many great positives in running your own business, being in small business can be a tough gig at times. The hours are often horrendous and there’s not much to fall back on for income during quiet times.

Many of our local small businesses have taken a hit over the last few years from online traders taking a chunk of the market share. Online traders can get around an array of costs, such as shop rent and employing staff.

It is more important than ever to support our local small businesses by buying locally.

Blacktown and our surrounding suburbs are great places to shop; it is nice to get some fresh air, bump in to people you know, and the small business owners are friendly and happy to help.

By shopping locally you are doing your bit to ensure our region maintains a large variety of shops offering goods, and it also helps stimulate local employment.

Nobody wants a ghost town of closed shops with everyone having to drive or catch public transport to work in other areas that are thriving - but that’s the picture that anywhere faces if their local community doesn’t get behind them and support them.

Our community is one of the best in the nation when it comes to supporting others, so let’s get behind our small businesses more than ever this year and keep Blacktown thriving.

Shop local Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

The train has left the station!

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miniature train has taken on board its first passengers and is making its way within Nurragingy Reserve in Doonside.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the miniature train has already proved to be a hit among all ages.

“The miniature train is a wonderful addition to Nurragingy Reserve and both young and old are having a great time on the tracks,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“This first stage of the miniature train is complete, taking passengers on a 100m Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM takes a loop within Blacktown’s ride on the miniature train alongside the Member for bushland backyard on both Blacktown Stephen Bali MP and Councillor Kevin Gillies. electric and steam trains.

“Work on the next stages is “Council is devoted to the continuing planned for next year which will see sustainable and sympathetic an additional 300m of railway track, development of Nurragingy Reserve concrete platforms, a signal box, and this miniature railway track a ticket office and additions to the will be part of a larger play precinct nearby amenities block.” which will include a new inclusive Blacktown City Council worked with playground,” Mayor Bleasdale said. the North Western Model Engineers, The train will operate on the Western Sydney Parklands Trust and third Sunday of every month, (next Signature Property Developers to one is 15 December), as well as on construct the miniature railway. additional special days.

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Jamie Eastwood wins the 2019 Blacktown City Art Prize

Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM and Aunty Lola Simmons, a representative for the Bankstown Koori Elders Group which won The Aboriginal Artist Prize.

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Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM with Jamie Eastwood and his winning artwork.

lacktown resident, Jamie Eastwood, has taken out the top award at the 2019 Blacktown City Art Prize.

The mixed media artwork made from acrylic paint, collage and paper ochre, ‘Blacktown Native Institution 1823-2018 Then and Now’, was a significant artwork about Blacktown’s history.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the collection of artworks was not to be missed.

“Now in its 24th year, the Blacktown City Art Prize is a major cultural event in Western Sydney,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“There were 530 entries from artists all around Australia and they were all very impressive.

“Congratulations to Jamie

Eastwood for winning the 2019 Blacktown City Art Prize for his significant interpretive artwork about Blacktown’s History.”

The judging panel of Cath Barcan, Emily McDaniel and Michelle Paterson, faced the difficult task of selecting the final artworks for exhibition.

“The 112 artworks selected for exhibition displayed a focus on tactility and many aimed to start conversations about important issues, giving the exhibition an educational sense this year,” said the judges.

The three judges commented that Jamie Eastwood’s artwork deals with a timeless subject matter that has wit and humour, whilst also providing a strong relevance to community and place.

Highly Commended for the Blacktown City Art Prize were Tasmanian-based, Nicole O’Loughlin, for her mixed-media artwork, ‘View of Kunanyi / Mount Wellington from South Hobart Tip’, and Hiromi ‘Tango for Full Moon Sakura’s Will’, another mixed-media artwork that includes light.

Annie Shin of Blacktown was awarded the Local Artist Prize for her ceramic assemblage, ‘Inhabitants Emerge.’

“Annie’s work demonstrates an effective balance of elements that shows great consideration of placement”, said the judges.

Highly Commended was Fozia Zahid for her painting, ‘The show must go on...’, and Julie Sol Lee for ‘Pillow Talk’.

The Aboriginal Artist Prize was won by The Bankstown Koori Elders Group for ‘Ghost Gum Dreaming’, a collaborative ceramic sculpture.

Highly Commended was Carmel Mackie for’ White Cockatoo’.

The Blacktown City Art Prize is proudly supported by Ford Land Company, WestLink M7, Blacktown Workers’ Club and Blacktown City Council’s Environmental Services.

Admission to the 2019 Blacktown City Art Prize is free. The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre is open 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday to Saturday (closed public holidays), and the exhibition is on until 25 January 2020.

About Blacktown Arts Blacktown Arts is a recognised leader in the development of contemporary arts in Australia.

We support artistic innovation and offer exciting, new experiences for audiences through an award-winning curated program of exhibitions, performances, workshops, residencies and events. We are committed to making dynamic, culturally diverse work that reflects Blacktown, its history and its communities. We place Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities at the heart of our program to develop new work drawing on issues of local and global significance.

Students the winners as Quakers Hill East Public School upgrade opens

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tudents at Quakers Hill East Public School are now enjoying some of the newest classrooms and facilities in NSW after their school upgrade was officially completed recently.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell and Member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly today visited Quakers Hill East Public School to mark the official opening of the upgraded facilities.

The $12 million project has delivered 12 new fully air conditioned flexible learning spaces, improvements to the existing classrooms and an extension to the administration building.

Mr Conolly celebrated the opening of the upgraded Quakers Hill East Public School.

“This major upgrade has delivered

brand new fully air conditioned classrooms, a new performance studio and a new digital hub. We want school students in NSW to have the very best education, and providing high-quality school facilities like these is a key part

of that,” Mr Conolly said.

“I’m thrilled to see the new facilities here at Quakers Hill East Public School - they will benefit the local community for generations to come.”

Ms Mitchell said she was proud the

NSW Government had delivered such an important project for the Quakers Hill community.

“It’s an exciting day for the students and teachers at Quakers Hill East Public School, and I’m delighted to be here to officially open the wonderful new facilities,” Ms Mitchell said.

The NSW Government is investing $6.7 billion over the next four years to deliver 190 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. In addition, a record $1.3 billion is being spent on school maintenance over five years, along with a record $500 million for the sustainable Cooler Classrooms program to provide air conditioning to schools. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

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lacktown residents can now borrow books more conveniently thanks to a new mobile library service launched by Blacktown City Council.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the Blacktown City Mobile Library will encourage residents to pick up a book.

“The mobile library will act as an extension to our 5 exceptional libraries currently operating in Blacktown,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The mobile library will be stopping off at train stations to offer current best sellers, adult fiction and nonfiction and paperbacks.

It will also be calling in to community centres and offering a broader collection, including picture books and children’s novels, eBooks, eMagazines, eAudio, large print, nonfiction and DVDs. “The mobile library is designed to encourage fast selection and fast borrowing for time poor commuters at stations will stop at railway stations,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“After the morning peak, the mobile library will go to community centres or special events to serve clients who have a bit more time browse and choose.

“The services offered by the mobile

library at community centres will be only limited by what the customers want and our imagination. Apart from the books, the offering can include TAFE classes, technology classes, games and a wide range of activities.

“I’m sure this service will be positively received in the community and readership will be on the rise!”

The mobile library service will begin at stations and community

facilities in December 2019.

The library will be visiting the following railway stations from 7 am – 10 am: - Monday, Seven Hills station - Tuesday, Doonside station - Wednesday, Schofields station - Thursday, Quakers Hill station - Friday, Rooty Hill station On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday the mobile library will also be

available at: - Glenwood Community Hub - Hassall Grove Neighbourhood Centre Bungarribee Community Resource Hub. For more information about the Blacktown City Mobile Library residents can contact Council on 9839 6000.

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

Books on wheels set to spike up readership

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Water, water not everywhere when dam levels reach 40 per cent.

“Given the rapid rate of decline of our dam levels we have decided to enact the next level of restrictions sooner than planned,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We’re experiencing one of the most severe droughts on record and we expect introducing Level 2 restrictions to save 78.5 gigalitres of water per year.”

Fines of $220 will apply for residents and $550 for businesses who don’t follow the restrictions.

By GREG DAVIES

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ake sure there’s some to drink (with apologies to Coleridge) With the advent of very little rain over the past few years and dams at record lows, Sydney Water is moving to stage 2 water restrictions from 10th December.

Dam levels are currently close to 46 per cent and continue to drop each week.

More than 85 per cent of Sydney’s water is supplied by captured rainfall.

Because of the current drought, dam levels have reached the lowest levels seen since the millennium drought.

The restrictions include-: ✓ You can only use a watering can or bucket to water your garden before 10 am and after 4 pm. ✓ You can only use drip irrigation or smart watering systems for a maximum of 15 mins a day before 10 am and after 4 pm. ✓ You can only top up an existing pool or spa, using a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle, watering can or bucket for a maximum of 15 minutes a day.

You can only do this to replace water lost through evaporation, not to replace water deliberately removed from the

pool or spa. ✓ You can only wash your vehicles with a bucket and sponge. ✓ You need a permit to fill new or renovated pools and spas that hold more than 500 L. Water restrictions target outdoor water use, but there are some indoor water uses that are subject to restrictions, such as filling indoor swimming pools and water features,

and operating car wash businesses in shopping centre car parks.

Businesses who use outdoor water will need to apply for an exemption.

If a business received a permit under the previous level of restrictions, they’ll need to contact Sydney Water to confirm it’s still valid.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said we would usually expect to have Level 2 water restrictions come into effect

The G Spot

So here we are, a few weeks off what I call stupid season. To me it’s like someone has yelled “bomb threat” and people are frantically pulling food off the shelves to stock up for Armageddon. Kids are screaming, mums are stressed out and divorces are happening all over the nation.

Family breakups are occurring as we speak, because Aunt Fanny won’t sit next to Uncle Fred on Christmas Day, because he ran off with the second cousin’s third aunt’s goldfish.

Anyway (Sigh) ….The F3 parking lot is calling your name, and there’s nothing like sitting in traffic for 17 hours with every other likeminded holiday goers (sheep), looking for that once in a lifetime adventure.

(Yippee)!

You have finally booked that dodgy caravan on the lake - come in spinner. It has the best dunny block you have ever seen, and by taking 75 family members, 5 dogs, 3 cats and the gold fish it works out to be $10

bucks a head. Now with a saving like that you can put up with Dad’s foot odour and your Grandad’s BO that is so strong it’s the next thing to be taxed.

Oh by the way, Aunty Cyril rang, she can’t make it, she has bingo finals in the Senior Citz club and Fang the fox terrier is having his dew claw removed.

So what happens to the house?

Well kids never fear, that’s where I come in. (Cough cough) Create the lived-in look, and no that does not mean throwing two lounges, empty beer cans and an engine block on the front lawn, it just means looking like someone is home.

Ya windows and doors - I can’t believe how many houses I have attended and it looks like someone has let off an air raid siren, with every door and window on the planet open.

Lock your windows and doors before you go. (Copy that).

Nothing spells not home like 15

The restrictions apply to everyone in Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the Illawarra. This includes all residents and businesses.

Whilst the restrictions can be a bit of a burden for many, the necessity is clear for all, every litre saved is insurance for the future.

Sydney Water will be out in force checking that people are not in breach of the restricted activity with substantial fines for people caught in breach.

For further information check out the following link: https://www.sydneywater.com.au/ SW/water-the-environment/what-were-doing/water-restrictions/level-2water-restrictions/index.htm

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

old newspapers on your front lawn, unless you are at my third cousin’s house then it’s quite normal. So have someone collect the mail, newspapers, and whatever else you have delivered.

Try to stop the delivery of the limited edition of My Life With Snails magazine, because the neighbours may learn of your hidden obsession.

Leave exterior lights on - I am not talking about the flickering Christmas lights that you failed to bring down in 1975, but the areas that are not easily visible.

Do not close blinds and curtainsA house that looks closed up tighter than my wallet, is a sure sign to the baddies that it’s free shopping time.

Social media - yeah we know that you’re excited, but checking in at every pit stop in Woop Woop and taking selfies on the toilet at the roadside dinner is a sure give away that you’re not home. Save the happy snappies till you get home.

Try the buddy system - get

someone to home sit, or a neighbour to check in. Not a good idea just chucking your house keys at some dude at the pub and saying knock ya self out! Good idea to actually know them first.

Now this leaves me to the last little hint, the home alarm system. I can hear the angels singing now, the back to base monitored home alarm system.

Really important part of home security! Okay that’s it for me flogging off my business.

So your holiday was a hit (tick) Dad still has foot odour (tick) Grandad has cleared the caravan with his BO and everyone is sleeping outside (tick) Aunty Cyril won the bingo finals and got a galvanised ball on a trophy stand (tick) Fang didn’t survive the dew claw removal because Aunty Cyril dropped the heavy trophy on him (tick) and you have come home to a safe home (tick).

Merry Christmas.

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

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FTER 33 years at the helm, Michael Wiezel has called last drinks and is entering retirement.

Michael’s involvement with St Marys RSL Club started when he joined the Sub-branch on the 31st August 1973, long before the club premises on Mamre Road was built.

“The club was officially opened on the 17th December, 1980 and Michael stood for a position of director to which he was eventually elected Treasurer,” said the club’s manager, Terry Whiting.

“On the 9th October 1986 he was appointed Secretary Manger. When Michael first started as GM of the club it was in dire straits, they had no money and were not far from closing the doors, to the point that all deliveries were COD only.

“During the naughties the Board and members gave Michael the great distinction of making him a life member to which I think was well deserving, being the only staff member to receive this accolade.”

During his tenure Michael has overseen many, many changes at the club, including additions, renovations and amalgamations. Three decades have dished up many challenges, but also a treasure trove of great memories.

Friends and staff gathered recently to give Michael a send off, and there were many old photos and trinkets on display showing the history of Michael’s time at the club.

“Michael you have been here for a large percentage of your working life,” Terry said in his speech.

“You have seen a lot of changes in the licencing laws, government laws and have made hundreds of changes to make St Marys RSL viable and sustainable with all these changes. Don’t leave here thinking, ‘What have I done?’ - you can say ‘This is what I have done.’ “ “You are going to be missed here, sitting in your lounge chair being available to all, good luck in the future and enjoy your retirement with your family, You deserve it.”

Michael said he sets off for retirement with no plans laid out of what he is going to do, but he’s sure to find plenty to keep him occupied.

“I like taking photos, so I guess I’ll have a lot more time to pursue that, I love spending lots of time with my family and of course there’s travel!” Michael said.

Best of luck in your retirement, Michael.

May the blessings of Christmas fill your heart and home with joy now and throughout 2020.

Merry Christmas to all!

”

Prue Car MP “ Member for Londonderry

Kevin

Conolly MP

State Member for Riverstone Phone: (02) 8883 3499 Fax: (02) 8883 3355 Mail: P.O. Box 65, Stanhope Gardens NSW 2768 Email: riverstone@parliament.nsw.gov.au

A Very Merry Christmas to you and your family. All the best for 2020 and enjoy the holiday season!

“

”

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

CEO of St Marys RSL retires after 33 years

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

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A Tuscan tour

By BEN CRANNEY

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uscany is full of amazing views. Even in the car parks, you can find yourself looking down on Roman ruins or over vineyard covered hills rolling into the horizon. Driving is one of the best ways to see Tuscany’s beauty, and the drive is often as beautiful as the destination.

It took me a while to realise exactly why it’s so beautiful, though. As we drove past fortified towns on hill tops, ancient stopovers for pilgrims on the Canterbury to Jerusalem way, and sandstone farm buildings perched on the hill tops, I realised it’s because the natural and human built merge so perfectly. The sandstone matches the colour of the freshly cut hay. The great walls protecting the villages could be cut straight from the outcrop. And the little churches still provide refuge for pilgrims, even if there are more of the tourist kind.

It’s also the sense of history.

Even if you don’t know much about Tuscany, or the Etruscan, Roman or Renaissance history, it’s inspired so much pop culture, that it’s likely to have touched you in some way. It’s easy to see why Ridley Scott filmed some of Gladiator’s most iconic scenes here. It almost felt like Russell Crowe should have been walking through the fields, hand brushing through the golden wheat kernels.

Ruins in Volterra

San Gimignano

View from my room

Monteriggioni is when Ezio is based in Assassin’s Creed 2. Dan Brown’s Inferno is in Florence. And Stephanie Myer’s Volturi vampire overlords are

from Volterra. And that’s only the last 20 hears.

The problem with all of this history and culture is that it’s busy, especially

in summer. Bus load after bus load comes through, clashing with the otherwise easy going nature of the area. For this reason, we stayed near one of the towns we wanted to see, San Gimignano, so we could easily visit in the twilight. The town is beautiful at this time, as they all are, and bearably busy. It’s the time to test the claims of best pizza and gelato, while sitting under the shade of the clock tower, or to find a little cafe outside of the city walls to gorge on cheese and meat platters.

I made a habit of trying to find these places. Monteriggioni isn’t as cemented on the tourist drive, and at only about 150m wide, it’s easy to explore. Colle di Val D’elsa is basically one long street, following a dramatic ridge line for a kilometer.

But perhaps the best thing to do, is find a decent vineyard, book a room, and just eat and drink there for a week.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel Waiting for Christmas

I

got married for the first time at the end of November. Now this is a lovely time to get married here in Australia, but rather unusual in England where the weather is cold, dreary and often very wet as indeed it was on my wedding day. It was strange timing but my father insisted we wait until we had known each other a year before tying the knot, a not unreasonable thing to ask given my rather unfortunate habit of getting engaged.

Well, it always seemed a little churlish to say no when someone went to the trouble of popping the question. The date coincided with the start of Advent and so when we sorted out the Order of Service, I thought it would be lovely to include one of my favourite Advent hymns, Hills of the North Rejoice. Little did I realise that it would be a virtual declaration of war between the different factions.

On the one hand there was my mother’s family of large and rambunctious Northerners and on the other, my husband’s very South London family who were of the opinion that anyone north of Watford still painted themselves in woad. Somewhere in the middle were my father’s rather cultured lot, huddled together for protection from the warring sides. All went well until we got to the hymn. The Northerners bellowed gleefully. The Southerners muttered balefully. A state of affairs that continued

through the whole reception.

In spite of all this, Advent is one of my favourite times of year. I love the run up to Christmas. I love the parties, the shopping, the cooking but most of all that once a year catch up with old friends. I love Advent calendars and have even been known to buy them for my husband due to the lack of small children around me. But on a personal level, it is also a time for reflection on what Christmas really means. It was not until the 6th Century that Roman Christians tied Advent to the coming of Christ, but not just to his birth in the manger in Bethlehem but

also to his Second Coming in the clouds as Judge of the World. It was and still is a time of reflection on violence and the evils of the world and a time to ask God to put this right. The wreaths we put on our front doors were introduced in Germany in 1839 and created out of evergreens to symbolize everlasting life in the middle of winter.

I am often asked how I can be a clairvoyant and also believe in God. There are some of the opinion that anyone dealing with the spirit world must be a pagan to be found frolicking naked in the dew on May Day morning - a rather daunting prospect given my age and increased girth. But I always reply that I cannot do the work I do without a very strong faith which for me personally means a belief in the birth of Jesus and the Resurrection.

And, after all, the Gospels have much to do with the Prophets foretelling the coming of Christ and foreseeing his birth.

So, as we open our Advent Calendars and deck the halls, perhaps, whatever our faith or creed, we could just give a little thought to that babe in the Manger and remember that this is a time to ask God to heal the violence and evils of the world.

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

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atients at Blacktown and Mount Druitt Oral Health Clinics can now have all their dental care provided under one roof, thanks to a $35,000 donation from profits raised by the hospital’s kiosk volunteers.

The incredible figure means the centre will have its very own specialised dental x-ray machine

capable of performing a panoramic scan of a patient’s head.

The procedure, known as an orthopantomogram (OPG), allows dentists to check the teeth and bones of the upper and lower jaws, as well as other surrounding facial tissue.

The x-rays can be used to diagnose everything

Mount Druitt Oral Health Clinic dental assistant Simona Stan with kiosk volunteers Emily Jancek, Pritz French, Maria Vergara and Josefina Balite.

from tooth decay and gum disease to impacted teeth, tumours, infections, and jaw dislocations or fractures.

Most patients will require an OPG at some point as they are generally taken every two years for adults.

Blacktown and Mount Druitt Oral Health Clinics head, Dr Andrea Lenard, said patients can now have their x-rays performed at the centre rather than being referred to another service.

“Thanks to our very own dental x-ray machine, we no longer have to reschedule appointments.

Having the technology on site has also allowed us to fast-track treatment for urgent care patients such as those coming from the emergency department,” Andrea said.

“The OPG machine has been beneficial to patients with mobility issues as it means they don’t have to travel unnecessarily.

“Thank you to our hospital volunteers who work tirelessly to raise funds for the purchase of new equipment to help improve the care we deliver to our patients.”

Blacktown and Mount Druitt Oral Health Clinics treat eligible patients who are under the age of 18, or who hold a current Health Care card or pension card and live in the local area.

Enquiries or appointments can be made by phoning 9881 1715.

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

Kiosk volunteers put a smile on Mount Druitt’s dial

11

Dogs, Cats, the Sun and colour

By DR RICHARD MILLER

T

he Sun causes two major problems to Dogs and Cats: 1. Heat, and 2. Cancer.

1. Heat is a problem mainly for dark coloured or black individuals, especially if they have short coats. Black absorbs heat whereas white reflects it. Short coats allow the Sun’s rays and therefore heat to get closer to the skin which then has a greater heating affect on the body. Short hair is also the reason why dogs who have their coats clipped are also more prone to heat stress. A long coat insulates from the cold, but it also insulates them from the heat and provides shade to the skin from the sun. Dogs don’t sweat so they can’t lose heat through the skin, they can only lose heat by evaporating water from the tongue when panting.

2. Certain types of skin cancer are a problem mainly for light coloured or white individuals.

Neither dogs nor cats tan, they simply keep getting

Mamre ROAd

sunburnt every time they are exposed to sunlight.

Chronic sunburn often leads to skin cancers. These are usually seen on parts of the body without hair shading the skin. Common places are noses, tips of ears, eyelids and on the skin of the belly. These cancers often start as non-healing ulcers with scabs

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that come and go. Early treatment is important to avoid major surgery if they progress.

If you find your dog hot, apply cold…e.g. cold bath or cover with towels soaked in cold water, then contact vet asap.

If you find scabby lesions on your dog or cat in the places listed above, seek vet advice asap.

I, together with all the staff at Mamre Road Vets, would like to wish everyone and their pets, a safe and merry Christmas and happy New Year.

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Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

12

WESTERN HISTORY

We remember 1955

By Lyn Forde, President/Research Officer for St Marys & District Historical Society.

I

n January 1955, a lack of playing areas in St Marys was put forward as an excuse at the Penrith Court of Petty Sessions, when four boys were charged with stealing in November the year before. The boys were playing in the area of the milk bar owned by George Calopades at 25 Queen Street when they broke in and stole a carton of cigarettes to the value of £3/8/3. Detective Constable Mackenzie said that one of the boys climbed over the back door and through the fanlight and took the carton of cigarettes. The boys later returned with some of the cigarettes and admitted everything, and one of the boys paid back some of the money, but £1/4/4 was still outstanding. Mr O’Loughlin was the Solicitor who appeared for one of the boys and gave the excuse that there were no facilities for boys to play at St Marys. Mr Brown, a Child Welfare Department Officer, said he thought that this incident had more to do with the lads having nothing to do in their School holidays. Mr Astley the Solicitor for one boy also referred to the lack of recreation areas at St Marys. Mr Stonham S.M. said “Its a disgrace to the community and the Government that this matter is mainly due to the fact that the boys have nothing to do. It partly rests with the people of St Marys. I can’t do anything more about it”. The boys were released on probation and were to remain in the care of their parents and had to attend church or Sunday school. Looks like school holidays were nearly over when secondary school classes at St Marys were due to open in February to relieve the overcrowding problem at Penrith High School. The new high school was also going to take all non-foreign language secondary pupils from St Marys and places east of St Marys, previously served by Penrith High School. Until a contract for the construction of new school buildings was finalised the classes were held in a building forming part of the Migrants’ Hostel that was converted by departmental workmen, with full equipment for home science and junior technical classes being supplied. About 160 pupils enrolled, with free transport from St Marys station provided for the pupils. Mr W J Eason who had been the Deputy Headmaster of Penrith High School for the past three years was appointed Deputy Headmaster in charge of the new secondary classes at St Marys. While the pupils waited for their new school to be built, the Department of Education put forwarded to Penrith Council a sketch plan showing the location of the secondary school, located immediately west of the Duration Cottages.

The previous idea of building the school on a site at Werrington was abandoned by the Department earlier. At a Council meeting, a letter was received from the Minister for Education that said “Council has already been advised of the Department’s desire to purchase from the Commonwealth authorities an area of approximately 10 acres on the western side of the Duration Cottages area. Completion of the contract has been deferred, due to the inability of the vendor to give legal access to Queen Street. The Council decided to ask the Minister to press on with the building of the school. Also, in February new Cinemascope equipment had been imported from overseas for installation at the Crown Theatre in Queen Street and the work of installation at the

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theatre was anticipated with the opening date in March. At a meeting at Penrith Council, the work on the new parking area alongside the station at St Marys was discussed due to the opening of the new Rex hotel that needed urgent parking. The Engineer replied gravel was needed and the gravel position was very grave and because of this the car park at the station could not be carried out until some further arrangements had been made.

Also this year the world’s Greatest Racing Rider Geoffrey Duke O.B.E.(1953), a British road racing star and the world’s No 1 supporter of high-speed “Gilera Four” 160 mph motor bike that he raced against the Australian internationals Henry Hinton, Bob Brown and others on the fast Grand Prix circuit at Mt Druitt. He was born at St Helens in Lancashire England in 1923 and never became aloof or detached from the realities and dangers of racing. He died on the Isle of Man in 2015 at the age of 92 years. Henry Hinton was born in 1909 at Aston in Birmingham, England. The family emigrated to Sydney soon after World War I and settled at Canley Vale. In the 1920s his father and two uncles owned Hinton Brothers, a motorcycle business at Newtown. While working as a motorcycle courier in Sydney in 1931 he was involved in a serious road accident and lost his left eye, but restricted vision did not affect his racing career.

He won the Australian lightweight event at Bathurst in 1937 and 1940, and the sidecar event at the new Mount Panorama circuit in 1938.

During World War II Henry repaired army motorcycles for Bennett & Wood. A crash in 1951 ended his international career but he raced on the Australian circuit. He retired in 1955 and died of cerebrovascular disease in 1978 aged 67 years. His eldest son Harry died in 1959 in Italy following a motorcycle-racing accident. Robert “Bob” Brown was born at Little Plains near Inverell in 1930 and grew up in Canterbury where he became a motor mechanic and drove taxis. His best season was in 1959 when he finished in third place in both the 350cc and 500cc world championships. In June 1960 Honda hired Bob to ride a fourcylinder 250 at the TT (time trials). He finished fourth, becoming the first Western rider to score world championship points on a Japanese motorcycle. Barely a month later, he died at the age of 30 years when he crashed while practicing on a Honda for the West German Grand Prix in Stuttgart. It is believed he was ‘touring’ to the pits with a misfiring engine when it suddenly chimed on all four cylinders and unseated him.

Until 1988, Bob was remembered by the Western Suburbs Club with a perpetual trophy for the most successful club team at the Easter Bathurst races. There is a more remarkable tribute in The Race for Leadership ’61 World Championship Road Race, that Honda produced to celebrate its maiden world 125 and 250 championships. The final sentence reads: “Bob untiringly helped the Japanese riders who were new to the game and actively helped to improve the Honda Four. Bob Brown was one of the foundations of Honda’s success.” Photo shows Robert “Bob” Brown courtesy of Wikipedia.

Other sources:- Nepean Times, The Independent newspaper, Sydney Morning Herald, Don Cox “A Fistful of Revs (Syd, 1978”), Henry Frederick Hinton, (1909–1978), Australian Dictionary of Biography, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University.

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Western News

INSTRUCTIONS

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

13

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

SOLUTIONS: 22 November EASY

MEDIUM

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Annual virus (9) 6 Full of flavor (5) 9 On the beach (7) 10 Boat in Venice (7) 11 Deletion (7) 12 Imperial ruler (7) 13 Steals from stores (9) 15 Entice (5) 16 Modelled (5) 19 Stunt plane (9) 22 Instructions on food

preparation (7) 23 A distant settlement (7) 25 Mediterranean sailing

ship (7) 26 Choking or retching (7) 27 Is concerned for (5) 28 Prediction (9)

solution 22/11/19

down 1 Silly (5) 2 Melange or hodgepodge (7) 3 Not normal (7) 4 Gentle push (5) 5 Attacker (9) 6 Storm on the sun (7) 7 TV show (7) 8 A pronunciation mark (9) 13 A drug that induces sleep (9) 14 Flagpole (9) 17 Not religious (7) 18 Portrays (7) 20 Double crosses (7) 21 Equipping (7) 23 Different (5) 24 Taut (5)

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

SUDOKU: EASY

ENTERTAINMENT

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

14

REAL ESTATE

Alex Soncini

W

Western News

Small business finance for new business ventures and start-ups

hile SMEs account for 97 per cent of Australian businesses, it can still be difficult to make a case to a bank when looking for finance to start a new business or invest in the growth of an existing one.

It is clear banks disregard providing funding for start-ups. To these banks, new start businesses are placed under a high-risk category, hence are more inclined to cater towards more well-established businesses that have demonstrated proven profitability within their full financial statements over the past 2-4 years.

The good news is that applying for commercial finance through a bank is far from the only option.

Personal loans A relatively young enterprise that doesn’t have a track record of success may not be looked upon favourably by banks, which make decisions based on risk. A lack of documented history doesn’t aid a business loan application, so for those who still want to go through the bank they use for transaction accounts, a personal loan could be the way to go.

The downside may be slightly higher interest rates and lower loan amounts, but a personal loan can provide a good buffer for start-ups and is relatively easy to apply for.

“If someone told me that they’re going to run off and start a new business, I’d suggest, while still still working in PAYG, to secure a personal loan before doing so,” advises the finance broker. “Banks like to see at least two years worth of company tax returns, which could prove problematic for new businesses.”

Private funding Private funding is when individuals lend through a trust account. While it can be a little more costly than the average business loan, it carries the advantage of flexibility.

“If it’s a ridiculously difficult deal to put together, with no banks wanting to touch it due to not having the appropriate documentation or being outside LVRs, then [private funding] would be an option I’d advise,” says the finance broker. “In saying that, however, I would strongly recommend speaking with a broker who has experience in private lending because, as a consumer, you’re kind of flying blind and you need to know that they’re going to be trustworthy and not rip you off.”

Raise the money Crowdfunding can help raise the funds needed to finance a startup or a product. The two main types are equity crowdfunding, where a share of the business is offered in return for funds, and rewards

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crowdfunding, where a product or service is pre-sold prior to the launch of the business or product.

While it may seem like the most hassle-free approach, with no applications or forms required to be filled out, it does entail high risks. According to crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, the success rate for small businesses is extremely low, with only 3.1 per cent reaching their goals in 2015.

Talk to a broker Skipping the banks entirely and talking to a commercial finance broker means gaining access to myriad finance products and loan types, as well as expertise in matching your needs to the right loan type. An experienced finance broker can take a broad view of a business’s finance, assist in business planning, and use their deep knowledge of a client’s needs to look beyond a simple ‘lowest interest rate’ formula in selecting a finance product, ensuring that business owners have access to the capital they need, when they need it.

Securing finance is imperative for a business’s prosperity. Alex Soncini is a MFAA accredited broker who can assist with business planning and finding the right type of finance to support growth and success.

The first step towards finding business finance is calling Alex from Wealthwiz on 0419 600 177.

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Western News

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

P

r e - r a c e favourites Aussie Max Neumann and Kiwi Hannah Wells turned it on for their fans and supporters and are celebrating in style, delivering the goods on the final run legs and picking up their first ever wins at Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney.

After several weeks of brutal weather and bushfires in NSW, mother nature finally relented and delivered some light rain, mild temperatures and almost perfect race conditions for the more than 1400 athletes making the trip out west to the International Regatta Centre in Penrith.

For the winners it was smiles all round. For Max it was redemption from an embarrassing DNF in 2017 and for Hannah it was one step further up the podium after a second place last year.

The pair now take a short break before heading to Ironman 70.3 Taupo and a reconnaissance mission to check out the town and the course ahead of next year’s Ironman 70.3 World Championships in November 2020.

Max Neumann is often the forgotten man of Australian triathlon, but he once again let his racing do the talking.

Following on from his sensational fourth behind three Olympians in Noosa, at Western Sydney he reminded everyone that he is a genuine talent over several distances.

“It was quite a tough race and a great field of Australian competitors. I didn’t have the greatest legs on the bike and I hurt a lot. When you jump off the bike you never know how the running legs will go but they were fine for the first two thirds of the run, but they sort of fell away. At 15km of the run I was just in survival mode.”

Neumann dug deep and found enough to secure the win and hold off second place Alexander Polizzi and Levi Maxwell, with a handy 1:14:54 over the 21km run course.

“I could easily have shut down after Noosa but I still wanted to race.

Only I didn’t want to race anywhere else other than in Australia, so that is why I picked Western Sydney. It is a great race, a good field and it is local, with sensational Australian crowds and not much travel. So, I am really

happy to get the win and cross first, especially after the mishap in 2017.

Hopefully I can freshen up for my next race, in Taupo in two week’s time,” he said.

Hannah Wells came into IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney with a plan of attack that she implemented with precision, but it definitely did not include duelling with compatriot Rebecca Clarke in the swim.

“I never expected to be out of the water first with Bec Clarke in the field, she is a demon in the water. So, I just tried to sit on her feet for as long as possible,” she said.

“There was a little bit of rain early but we had some really fast bike conditions which was nice. I biked to my own pace and caught Becs about 30km in and then led the race from there. I took a while to find my feet

on the run and was a bit stiff to start with, but then settled in and ran my own race.”

“It all went how I hoped it would go on the day and as I expected, so I am definitely happy with my performance.

It was a good all round result and nice to finally get the 70.3 Western Sydney win,” she added.

Hannah now heads back to New Zealand, with her eyes on win a home win at IRONMAN 70.3 Taupo, after flu caused her a DNF last year.

“It would be nice to get the win in Taupo in two weeks time, but we will see what happens. That will be the end of 2019 racing but then I will be doing some racing across the New Zealand summer. In 2020 I will be a full time athlete and I will do an IRONMAN at some stage, I am just not sure which one yet,” she said.

Ward takes on the Longest Day Challenge

By Noel Rowsell

Dunheved GC Trainee Professional Bradley Ward is undertaking ‘The Longest Day Challenge for Cancer’ and will play 72 holes of golf in a single day at Dunheved on 16th December.

Brad and the Dunheved Club are looking for sponsors for the event, with every dollar

raised not only helping fund-raising for Cancer Research but also making the golf challenge a little bit harder.

People wishing to help sponsor Brad can go to www.longestday.org.au and search for Bradley Ward to find his page and donate.

“The more people donate, the harder the challenge,” said Brad.

Victorian Josh Younger takes out NSW Golf Open

By Noel Rowsell

Victorian Josh Younger has broken through for his maiden professional win in the 2019 AVJennings NSW Open after a dramatic two-hole playoff against Shellharbour youngster Travis Smyth at Twins Creeks Golf and Country Club in Sydney’s west.

Younger, 35, hit one of the shots of his life into the 18th green for a birdie to end his drought of near misses after three previous runner-up finishes in his career.

It was an emotional victory for the boy from Bacchus Marsh, having overcome a double bogey in regular play on the 18th to relinquish his lead, only to find himself in a playoff as the young challengers, Picton’s

Penrith’s 3 representatives Col Banham, Wil Arnold and Joshua Gadd, along with 2019 NSW Open Champion Josh Younger.

Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Justin Warren and WA’s Min Woo Lee missed their opportunities.

Penrith had three representatives in the field, who all missed the cut after the first two rounds.

Wil Arnold (Penrith GC) had opening rounds of 69 & 80 to finish at five over par, Joshua Gadd (Penrith GC) had rounds of 78 & 80 to finish 14 over par and Col Banham

(former Leonay GC and Penrith GC Professional and now a Teaching Professional at Twin Creeks CC) had rounds of 82 & 76 to also finish at 14 over par.

Western News 6 December 2019 Issue 99

Breakthrough wins for Neumann and Wells at Ironman Western Sydney

15

Western News Friday, 6 December 2019

SPORT

Hamilton making life easy for high-flying Wanderers

By CONNER LOWE

A

sensational hat-trick from US star Kristen Hamilton has highlighted the Wanderers 3-1 Westfield W-League win over Brisbane Roar at Lions Park.

Hamilton scored twice in the first half then added another in the second 45 minutes as the Red and Black made it three wins from three to go top of the table in yet another impressive performance from Dean Heffernan’s team.

The hat-trick, the first of the W-League season, took Hamilton’s tally to four goals in three games.

The forward’s combination with fellow American Lynn Williams was almost unstoppable as they caused the Roar defence all sorts of problems.

Williams was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet herself having been denied by a number of outstanding saves from Roar goalkeeper McKenzie Arnold.

The Wanderers took a 2-0 lead into the break courtesy of a brace from Hamilton, who was a real thorn in the side of the Roar defence with her sheer pace and strength.

Hamilton opened the scoring on 10 minutes after Williams broke on the left and reached the sideline before cutting it back for Hamilton to score from close range.

To be fair, the Wanderers didn’t have it all their own way against an aggressive Roar side that looked to press the visitors high up at every opportunity.

The home side forced a few turnovers and caused their own problems with Wanderers goalkeeper Abby Smith forced to make a couple of quality saves in the first five minutes.

Still, the Wanderers managed to sort it out and looked dangerous in transition as they looked to exploit the pace of Hamilton and Williams.

Williams was doing all she could to get on the scoresheet and had a superb effort tipped over the bar on 23 minutes.

Williams’ combination with Hamilton almost saw the Wanderers grab a second on 40 minutes but Hamilton’s effort went just wide.

However, the visitors struck a blow just before half time with a goal made in the US to make it 2-0.

American Sam Staab’s long throw was flicked on by Williams and found Hamilton, who reacted quickly to chest down the ball and slot it home from about eight metres.

The Roar made some tactical changes at the break and managed to pull a goal back in the 55th minute.

But, the Wanderers took just nine minutes to restore the two-goal advantage when Hamilton produced some neat skill to turn a defender in the box before sending a rasping shot into the back of the bet to complete her hat-trick.

The Wanderers now look forward to an away trip down to Melbourne with a match against Melbourne Victory at Latrobe City Stadium on Saturday 7th December.