Westernnews i22 4november2016

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TRIBUTES FLOW

Former Mayor and much loved councillor of the Blacktown council, Charlie Lowles OAM (pictured here on right with Prue Car MP and NSW Opposition Leader Luke Foley) has passed away after a private battle with illness, aged 84. Story by Keegan Thomson p6-7.

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THE Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) has taken its services on the road, in an attempt to improve breast screening rates among timepoor women.

The Sunflower Clinic BreastScreen van, staffed with female breast screening specialists, will be stationed at Seven Hills Plaza from November 8 - 19, giving eligible women the chance to have a free breast check.

The pilot project, funded by the Cancer Institute NSW through the BreastScreen NSW program, is aimed at boosting breast screening

participation for women aged 50 to 74.

Westmead BCI director Associate Professor Nirmala Pathmanathan said the van offered a critical service to women across western Sydney.

“Having a mammogram takes about 15 minutes and it is important, given one in every eight women in NSW will develop breast cancer in their lifetime,” she said.

BreastScreen offers free mammograms for all women over the age of 40.

“We are urging women aged 50 to 74 to have a mammogram every two

years,” Assoc Prof Pathmanathan said.

“Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Australian women, yet only half of all eligible women in the target age group are being screened regularly.

“We need to significantly increase the number of women screening and in turn, reduce the number of women dying from this disease.

To book a free mammogram at the van or BreastScreen clinic, contact BreastScreen on 13 20 50.

Seven Hills Plaza is located at 224 Prospect Highway, Seven Hills.

Missing teenager – Blacktown POLICE are appealing for public assistance as they search for a teenager missing from Sydney’s west since this afternoon.

Kameron Dennis, 15, was last seen at Hereward Highway, Blacktown, about 2pm on Tuesday.

It is believed he could be trying to travel by train to the Sydney CBD, and may also try to head to the Albury area.

There are concerns held for Kameron’s welfare and anyone who sees him should contact police immediately.

Kameron is described as being of Caucasian appearance with a slim build and red hair, He was wearing a blue shirt and black pants, and carrying a black school bag with white spiderweb print.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

3 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

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4 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

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From the Editor’s Desk

by Kerrie Davies I SPENT all day Friday a blubbering mess.

We were up at the crack of dawn to head to the international airport to see my youngest child, Billy, set off for Canada with his mate Casey, to begin a two-year working holiday at Whistler Ski Resort.

It is a dream come true for Billy, who has been mad on snow boarding since the first time I took him to Perisher. He was about two years old and was barely walking - but he could snow board.

It was a bittersweet moment watching him walk through the departure gates; torn between feeling his excitement that the day which was 12 months of planning had finally arrived for him, and the massive hole I felt in my heart. My mother and I tried our best to look happy for him but I’m not sure either of us strung together any sentences that made any sense between sobs.

The tears continued for the rest of the day and I literally cried myself to sleep, and when I woke and saw his washing in the basket I started again.

I popped in to see how my mother was feeling, and she too had been sobbing all day. “I keep thinking pull yourself together, at least he’s gone for a two-year holiday. Imagine how people felt when they were waving their sons and grandsons off to war,” she said.

A very sobering thought.

With Remembrance Day just around the corner, I am now trying to replace my fears and my tears with thoughts of those who went off to serve our country in circumstances that were anything but a holiday.

They set off from these fine shores into an unknown world, with little idea of what was in store.

And those who were left behind weren’t able to plan a visit, nor did they have a mobile phone to text to, skype to speak on or a facebook page to stalk.

They were left with nothing more than hope and prayers, and many never got to see their sons again.

At 11am on Novemeber 11, we pause to reflect on circumstances faced by our defence forces and their families.

We will remember them. Lest we forget.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Top prizes awarded to Blacktown Hospital BLACKTOWN Hospital’s carer zones and expansion project have taken out three top NSW Health Awards, recognising their contribution to patient partnerships and collaborative leadership.

The hospital’s innovative carer zones – a first in NSW - took home two prestigious awards: the People’s Choice Award and the Patients as Partners Award.

The zones provide overnight bedside accommodation for carers of adult patients, offering a single sofa/bed, access to the patient’s bathroom and a curtain for privacy.

The hospital’s transition manager Peter Rophail won the Collaborative Leader of the Year Award - the state’s top individual leadership honour for his outstanding management of the expansion project at Blacktown Hospital and Mount Druitt Hospital.

Western Sydney Local Health District chief executive Danny O’Connor said the awards put the spotlight firmly on western Sydney as a health innovator and leader.

“The introduction of carer zones, at the suggestion of a carer, prompted a major redesign of patient rooms and has had a significant positive impact on patients and carers,” he said.

“We are absolutely delighted that

such an important project has been recognised in the state’s health awards, and by our peers in the People’s Choice category.

“It clearly demonstrates the growing importance of western Sydney as a place for ideas, innovation and excellence.”

Collaborative leader winner Peter Rophail, a Glenbrook local, said he was thrilled with the award.

“It’s been a privilege to work on such a unique project with our dedicated and

talented team; I’m truly grateful for the honour,” he said.

The BMDH Project delivered major new hospital facilities for Mount Druitt Hospital and Blacktown Hospital, including a new clinical services building, which opened in 2016.

At the time, it was the state’s biggest health infrastructure project.

Stage 2 of the project is now underway.

For more information about the project, visit bmdhproject.health.nsw.gov.au

House Fire – Dean Park INQUIRIES are continuing after a house fire in Dean Park on the weekend.

About 10.30pm Sunday 30 October, emergency services were called to Armstrong Place, Dean Park after reports of fire in a house.

On arrival, police located the house well alight.

Fire & Rescue NSW attended and extinguished the blaze.

No one was injured and it is not yet known what caused the fire however, it is believed not to be suspicious Officers attached to Quakers Hill Local Area Command have commenced an investigation into the incident.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000

5 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

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Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Farewell to much-loved

By Keegan Thomson

FORMER MAYOR and much loved councillor of the Blacktown council, Charlie Lowles OAM has passed away after a private battle with illness, aged 84.

Mr Lowles retired from council before the last LGA election after holding a spot on council for the last 27 years, making him one of the longest serving councillors

at Blacktown council.

In August, Mr Lowles spoke to Western News about his retirement from council. At the time he said it was sad to leave the council.

“It is time to hang up the shingles,” Mr Lowles said. “I look forward to having a little more time to contemplate a personal regeneration.”

As well as being a veteran councillor, Mr Lowles was a devoted Labor member, who helped campaign for many western Sydney Labor MPs. MP for Londonderry, Prue Car

posted campaign pictures of her with Mr Lowles on her facebook page, along with a special message of condolence.

“When I put my hand up to stand for Parliament, Charlie was with me from the very first day. I will never forget his guidance and friendship.

And I will miss it every day,” Ms Car said.

“Our community has lost our most ardent advocate. I have lost a mentor,” she added.

Federal MP for Chifley, Ed Husic,

also wrote a heartfelt message on his facebook.

“Your decency, passion, commitment to social justice and determination to help the neighbourhoods of our area marked you out as one of the great local champions,” Mr Husic said.

“You were always there with advice and guidance - our community and I will miss you deeply. Our heartfelt condolences to your family,” he wrote.

The former Blackett resident

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was six times Mayor of Blacktown and was recognised nationally for his longterm commitments to local government when he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal. In 2005 he was recognised for his efforts towards the Blacktown community with the title of Emeritus Mayor.

Current Mayor of Blacktown, Cr Stephen Bali, said Mr Lowles was a man who the community could always count on.

“Charlie Lowles was a man of incredible commitment and

compassion who constantly promoted inclusiveness,” Mayor Bali said.

“He was a strong believer in the community working together to better itself.”

Mayor Bali also paid tribute to the former councillor’s strong Labor backgrounds.

“A stalwart of the Labor movement in Western Sydney, he worked tirelessly to ensure Labor values were translated into community action and benefit,” he said.

Being a councillor from Ward Five,

Mr Lowles received the affectionate title of ‘the Mayor of Mount Druitt’ due to his deep engagement with the residents and ratepayers of Ward Five.

Across his time on council he paved the way for the development of Mount Druitt Library and Community Hub and the Mount Druitt swimming centre.

His strong advocacy for the suburb of Emerton helped establish the community that it is today. He was instrumental in the creation of the Emerton Leisure Centre,

Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Labor Emeritus Mayor

7

Dawson Mall and the Emerton Youth Recreation Centre.

For anyone wishing to say goodbye to Charlie Lowles they can attend the Requiem Mass at 10:00am on Wednesday, November 9 at the Holy Family Church, 252-254 Luxford Road, Emerton. This will be followed by an interment at Pinegrove Memorial Park, Kington Street Minchinbury.

There will also be a community celebration of Mr Lowles life at 2:00pm on Sunday, November 13 at Emerton Leisure Centre.

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Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Give a child a home

Getting to know ...

Kevin Conolly MP Member for Riverstone with Conner Lowe

1. What was your first paid job?

I was a paper boy, selling newspapers after school. There was such a thing as an afternoon newspaper in the olden days!

2. What is your guilty pleasure?

Dancing…. but I’m banned by the rest of the family on the grounds of embarrassment.

3. What is your biggest fear/phobia and why?

I can’t stand the sensation of free fall, so I’m never going to take up skydiving.

4. What is your worst habit?

You’ll have to ask my wife, I have no idea.

5. Best advice you have ever been given?

Stay true to yourself.

6. If you only had $50 left in the bank, how would you spend it?

I’d buy flowers for my wife, Cathie.

7. Favourite holiday destination and why?

I have very fond memories of time we spent in Tasmania.

8. Do you have a favourite sporting team?

Wests Tigers.

9. Name one reason that you love Western Sydney?

The people are fair dinkum and focussed on family.

10. In three words, describe your perfect Sunday?

Sunshine, grandkids, snooze.

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Community rallies behind 12 year old Ziad

Ziad (right) with his brother and sister

By Kerrie Davies

TWELVE year old boys should be spending their time thinking about which mates will be going to their high school or where they might find rare pokemon, but Ziad Soltani from St Clair is spending his time worrying about how much weight he has gained from steroids, how his facial muscles have weakened and trying to work out a way to make himself feel happier.

And he also worries about what the future holds for him.

It’s a gut-wrenching thing to have to watch a child deal with and for Ziad’s parents, Trudie and Amin, it has been a terrifying reality since their world descended into chaos in July when Ziad was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.

A routine MRI following a football injury delivered every parent’s nightmare; a tumour was detected on his brain.

And just when they thought the news couldn’t get any worse, it did. Ziad’s tumour was deemed inoperable.

Family friend for many years, Krissy Stimpson, was with Ziad when he first sustained the injury that led to further testing and she knew instinctively that something wasn’t quite right.

“I’ve known Ziad for many years, he and my son are best friends,” Krissy said.

“When he came off the field he didn’t look well. I’ve seen him soldier on after getting hurt before so this time he seemed different. After he threw up, I knew it was cause for concern but thought he had concussion.”

Krissy said doctors who spoke with the family following the brain tumour diagnosis did offer some form of hope in that it was a slow-growing tumour that could be managed with regular check ups and radiation if needed.

But following two surgeries designed to alleviate pressure on the brain, Ziad began to show signs of facial paralysis, intense migraines that had him screaming in pain, double vision and he lost sensation down the entire right-hand side of his body.

Following check ups have delivered the most devastating blow imaginable - Ziad is expected to be totally paralysed within 12 months

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Comets player “Big Zee” had a bright future ahead - on and off the field.

and will likely be dead within five.

The promising young football player from the St Clair Comets is trying his best to stay positive, but it is incredibly hard.

“Seeing all the love and messages is giving him a boost,” Krissy said, “but he’s a 12 year old boy and he’s not equipped to deal with all this. He wants to feel happy but said he’s not sure how to make himself be happy.”

Krissy had a friend who had previously been down the inoperable brain tumour path, 17 year old Trae.

Now living a normal life after an enormous odeal, Trae’s victory against the odds eventuated at the hands of Dr Charlie Teo, brain surgeon extraordinaire.

Alerting Trae and his family to Ziad’s ordeal, Krissy said Trae’s family had some money left over from his funding campaign and they paid for Ziad and his family to visit Dr Teo and see if he could help.

And help he can, but Krissy said Dr Teo’s services are not covered by medicare due to the fact that Ziad’s tumour is considered inoperable.

By the time the surgery costs, the hire of the operating room,

the anesthetists and the two week subsequent stay in intensive care are taken into account, the quote comes in at a hefty $100,000.

But what price do you put on a child’s life?

A Go Fund Me campaign has been launched on behalf of the Soltani in hope of raising the money to save Ziad and get the surgery he needs.

So far the kind-hearted community has raised over $60,000 of the $100,000 goal.

“It is so amazing to me that the majority of the money pledged has not come from large corporate companies, but from everyday people and families in western Sydney like you and me,” Krissy said.

“People haven’t put in thousands of dollars, but just what they could afford - but there’s been many of them so it has all added up.”

The funding raised so far has shown an incredible grass-roots campaign for an everyday 12 year old boy from St Clair who has been dealt an incredibly tough blow.

If you can help please visit https:// www.gofundme.com/pray-for-bigzee-2w3hh6c

Listen to our very own Keegan Thomson with News Hour - Monday mornings from 9am to 10am

www.wowfm1007.com.au

10

REMEMBRANCE DAY | 11 NOVEMBER 2016

Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

And Bob’s your uncle

By Kerrie Davies

WHEN I was a child, Bob really was my uncle.

Robert Stanley Stuart was a WW2 Veteran having served overseas in th Royal Australian Navy. He had many warthe ti time stories to tell and he didn’t mind sharing th - especially after a few beers. them While most of the family would drift off to bed, I would sit for hours on end - transfixed in a world w where food was rationed, canons and bayonets r ruled and a postcard from Australia was the most tr treasured gift one could behold.

Every year we’d go on holiday to Shoal Bay in Port Stephens and Uncle Bob would run the h holiday apartment like it was the HMAS Sydney; w we’d be woken each morning at dawn to the call “ “Fishing detail, fall out!”

Our holiday activities would be organised in a ti timetablelike fashion down to the minute.

And every year we’d embark on the hike up to the top of Tomaree Hill. The historic Fort Tomaree played an important role in the defence of Port Stephens during WW2, including Tomaree Head that was solidly armed with gun emplacements.

During the walk I would hear more about WW2, the friendships formed, the politics at the time and the propaganda around the encouragement to enlist. I’d also hear about those who weren’t fortunate enough to return home.

It was more valuable to me and more detailed than anything I learned about this chapter in history at school.

Uncle Bob has since passed on, but his stories

My Uncle Bob (left) and his mate during WW2.

will remain with me forever, and I’ve shared them with my own kids.

It’s really important that these first-hand accounts don’t get lost in time, buried and never to be retold. If you have a connection to someone who served this great nation, take the time to listen to anything they’re willing to share.

And pass it on.

While the historical detail and facts will always be available for future generations, the actual experiences of our veterans will not - unless we pass them on.

We will remember them

They went with songs to the battle, they were young.

Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow.

They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted, They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Western NEWS

By Keegan Thomson

IN REMEMBERING all those who’ve sacrificed everything in all theatres of war we mustn’t forget the neglected POWs and those who suffered under oppression and tyranny whilst their brothers in arms fought on the open seas and in the skies.

Between October of 1942 and October of 1943 around 13,000 Australian prisoners of war joined a workforce of nearly 60,000 Allied POWs to build, in unimaginable conditions, the Thai-Burma Railroad.

Along with the POWs the Japanese forces enslaved some 200,000 Burmese, Javanese, Malays, Tamils and Chinese workers who were known as Romusha. Many of the Romusha workers were coerced into working on the railroad with the offer of housing, good pay and easy work.

Japanese forces used brutal tactics and employed harsh penalties to build the 415 kilometre long railroad, which ran from Bangkok in Thailand to Rangoon in Burma.

The treatment of the POWs was inhumane and barbaric with diseases like cholera, dysentery, malaria and tropical ulcers ravaging the camps and labourers. Starvation and malnutrition were also prevalent across the railroad with many dying of treatable diseases and exhaustion.

One of the most bloody segments of the build was at Hellfire Pass on the Thai-Burma boarder.

The construction of the railroad at Hellfire Pass was the largest rock cutting along the railroad taking 6 weeks to build with POWs working 18 hours a day.

Some Allied prisoners of war were beaten to death

by Japanese forces at Hellfire Pass.

The most infamous section of the railroad is bridge 277 or more commonly known as the bridge over River Kawi. Originally named the Mae Klong River, the bridge depicted in the film, The Bridge on the River Kwai, was nothing like the original bridge the POWs built. In fact the bridge was much smaller and was destroyed a number of times during Allied bombardment of the region during the war. Today a concrete bridge stands in place of the original wooden bridge. It is unknown how many prisoners perished during the construction of the bridge.

During the 12 month campaign to build the railroad many POWs risked life and limb to record

the horrid conditions and the decaying lives of the men. Artists used brushes made of human hair to paint scenes with plant juices and blood used for paint. During some of the hardest months of construction moral was lifted across the camps though songs and music.

Within the Australian forces was a surgeon from Victoria, Colonel Ernest Edward “Weary” Dunlop. After serving in the European theatre of the Second World War, Colonel Dunlop was moved to the Pacific where he was captured in Java. He was sent to the railroad where he took charge and restored morale to dying and disenfranchised.

One POWs said he was “a lighthouse of sanity in a universe of madness and suffering.” It has been said that the Australian casualties on the railroad were significantly reduced because of Colonel Dunlop’s medical interventions.

When the Allied forces eventually drove the Japanese from Thailand they came across some of the worst treated POWs across the Pacific theatre.

Many of the men were skin and bone, stick thin, with a great number of ailments and trauma to their minds and bodies.

All up around 3000 Australian POWs died in the construction of the now mainly defunct railroad, with around 150,000 of the Romusha workers dying along side. In total around 13,000 Allied POWs died on the railroad, yet those numbers aren’t official due to the lack or up to date records.

ON REMEMBRANCE DAY WE PAUSE TO REFLECT ON THE SACRIFICE OF THOSE WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE TO SERVE OUR COUNTRY, AS WELL AS THOSE CURRENTLY DOING SO. LEST WE FORGET.

Prue Car

MP

Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 | 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

11 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

REMEMBRANCE DAY | 11 NOVEMBER 2016 Remembering the Thai-Burma railroad

12

Legends of the West

By Garion Thain

IT’S not often in Mount Druitt do you spend your day indulged in the privilege of having a one-on-one discussion with a veteran, especially on the books. Very rarely – and this was my only time – do you get to speak to a World War II veteran

Mr Ebzery age 21. He enlisted age 18.

His brother Bill enlisted at age 16.

in their own home. During said rare opportunity, you let them steer the conversation, because there’s nothing to gain in trying to control it yourself.

As it was when I met Mr John Ebzery, one of the last World War II veterans in the Blacktown Local Government Area, at his home. The beginning of November marks the countdown to Remembrance Day, an observation of the armistice that ended the First World War in 1918, and more broadly, a chance to contemplate the sacrifices and service of men and women who have served in the Australian Defence Force over many generations since federation.

Sitting down with Mr Ebzery, our conversation began with mention of the upcoming anniversary of the WWI armistice. Mr Ebzery in turn reflected on the end of WWII – having seen horrors in the final curtain of the Pacific War he is still coming to terms with over 70 years later.

Mr Ebzery was at the Hospital at Morotai recovering from skin irritation when he saw some of the 300 survivors of the originally 1600 strong Australian component of the Ambon Prisoner of War camp. He saw men who were famished, close to death,

and hearing only of their torture at the hands of their captures. Shockingly, he also heard accusations against officers who supposedly betrayed them for favours in-camp.

“I did believe them,” said Mr Ebzery.

“I just didn’t know. At the time, you couldn’t really understand it.”

Mr Ebzery mentioned other images burnt into his brain at the war’s end.

Looking out the liberated bomber that took him back to Australia’s turret holes (the plane’s ‘toilet’ he admitted) over Darwin, Mr Ebzery could see into the bay, dotted with sunken ships laid waste in raids of years prior. He hadn’t been able to keep track of what happened in Australia too well whilst overseas.

“The townships [of Darwin] had houses standing, but streets destroyed by bombs.”

“People had moved on at that point, and were back to living their lives again. But I saw the wreckage.”

Upon returning home, Mr Ebzery saw the York Street Bank bombed “himself.”

And, aside from finding Rosary beads that he still owns to this day in abandoned Khaki clothes most likely being swapped for Forest Greens in

New Guinea, (Interesting fact: The green in the clothes comes from boiling eucalyptus leaves into the clothes according to Mr Ebzery) Mr Ebzery doesn’t have much to say about his World War II experiences. He relayed his experiences with a smile, which was very telling. Starting in 1943, he spent 9 months in New Guinea, and a subsequent 9 in the East Indies, frequently on patrol. In 1945, he was able to return home.

Mr Ebzery is proud of his service. He has reflected on the sights he saw at the end of the war for years however, only recently being able to understand what happened thanks to the book “Ambon”

by Roger Maynard. Following the war, he and his brother Bill, who served in the Royal Australian Navy, didn’t talk about the war very often, which bothered their mother who wanted to hear stories from them, despite having been sceptical about their enlistment due to her having seen the horrors of World War I in a hospital herself. Her Mother’s Medallion is on display at Blacktown RSL. “Their mother wanted them to feel proud of their service to Australia, so she talked about their involvement a lot,” said John’s wife Joan.

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JOHN EBZERY “They needed room to think about what they’d seen and done,” she continued.

Mr Ebzery spent his post-war life actively involved in the Army.

“I re-enlisted in 1947,” said Mr Ebzery.

“You make friends there,” he continued.

Subsequently, he spent 30 years working with munitions in the old St Marys industrial area at the Ropes Creek rail link, in present day Ropes Crossing. He has lived in the West for decades and is comfortable to call the area home. He has been a member of the Rooty hill RSL for well over 16 years, and is a member of the St Marys and Penrith RSLs in the neighbouring Nepean Region. A friend of the community offered him the book on Ambon which gave Mr Ebzery the ability to fully analyse the things he’s seen and heard.

“I learnt that the stories were true,” he said.

“There was so much desperation, hard decisions to be made in those camps. You could see it on the blokes when you met them,” he said.

Mr Ebzery knows that the realities of war can be harsh, but he has made

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Mr Ebzery keeps his records for the benefit of himself, his family and the Penrith RSL.

Mr Ebzery discussed his memories of the end of World War II with reference to the book ‘Ambon’ by Roger Maynard, which details the experiences of Prisoners of War he met at Morotai.

lifelong friends in the Australian Army and has kept an active role in maintaining his history, keeping his records together “like a dotting old woman,” he said. It was a unique treasure of an experience to talk to him and Joan, as it is a rarity that you can hear the first hand memories of someone

who has seen Darwin battered but undefeated, a victorious Australia but the solemn underside of that victory.

Thank you, John ‘Jack’ Ebzery, for being a good bloke, putting your hand up for Australia and living a dedicated life. Truly, you are a Legend of the West.

Mr Ebzery has been a member of the Rooty Hill RSL for over 16 years, being a Mount Druitt local.

John Ebzery was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Maureen Gildart.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

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CAPED CRUSADER Look up in the sky! It’s a bird, it’s a plane? No - it’s Mount Druitt Hospital patient Patrick Vlatko, age three, wearing his superhero cape! Capes4Kids, an Australian charity, recently donated 100 superhero capes to help Mount Druitt Hospital’s sick children feel safe and brave while undergoing treatment.

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Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

A day in the life of a... Snake catcher

By Keegan Thomson

USUALLY when someone sees a snake they’ll run the complete opposite direction from it but there is a husband and wife duo who’re running across western Sydney catching snakes and releasing them back into the wild.

Freya and Sean Cade, from Australian Snake Catchers, are two western Sydney locals who risk life and limb to catch and release dangerous and slithery creatures before they can cause too much hassle.

Mrs Cade said the reason her and her husband became involved in catching snakes was because they felt the community needed to know the vital work of conservationists.

“We saw a need to educate and inform the community about the importance of conservation of these great creatures,” Mrs Cade said. “There was a definite void in the rescue, release and rehabilitation of our reptile wildlife.”

If there is a snake on your property, the Cade family will come out, assess the situation and remove the snake to an undisclosed location, usually a few kilometres away.

Surprisingly Mrs Cade was petrified of snakes before she started catching them.

“I couldn’t watch them on tv or even look at pictures of them,” she said. “This has helped me when it comes to helping other people who have fears and phobias because I myself understand exactly how they feel.”

One of the worst parts of the job is talking with a snake-hater, Mrs Cade said.

“It is always hard dealing with the comments like

4 feet long and the other was 3 feet long, and as this species prey on snakes including their own breed they needed to go into separate bags,” she explained.

“Sean bagged the 4 foot snake first and while reaching to pick up the second bag the smaller snake bit his finger, breaking a fang off and leaving it in his finger in the process.

“Sean swiftly picked the offending snake up again and bagged it, then he calmly walk to his car for a bandage Freya Cade and Sean Cade. Photo: Facebook. while calling triple 0. There ‘the only good snake is a dead snake.’ People need was venom detected by the hospital on Sean’s finger to understand they serve a very important part of our but luckily nothing in his lymphatic system so he ecosystem. If we have no snakes we will be over run was released after procedural tests,” Mrs Cade said. with rodents and other pests.”

When out on the job, Mrs Cade said she’s always “In saying that, having discussions with various being asked questions like, ‘do snakes chase you?’ members of public, walking away knowing that Another one people always ask is, ‘are you ever people have a better understanding and tolerance for scared when out catching snakes?’ reptiles where previously that was not the case, makes She has assured that both answers to those our job worthwhile and satisfying,” Mrs Cade said. questions are an unequivocal no.

“Our motto is education, information, It is clear that the Cade family are very proud conservation,” Mrs Cade said. of their work and the lengths they go to to protect Across their many years of working together native Australian animals. there has only been one potentially life-threatening “We are very conscious not to injure any reptile in incident. the process of capture,” Mrs Cade said.

“Sean has been bitten only once in many years of If you want to check out some of the creepy, this type of work,” Mrs Cade said. crawly creatures go to Australian Snake Catchers on “The situation saw him having to rescue two red facebook or if you need assistance with a snake call bellied black snakes at the same time. One snake was them on 0410 761 575 or 0452 492 836.

St Marys swanky new hotel

By Keegan Thomson

WESTERN Sydney is set to get a brand new luxury hotel in a move that will cement the region as a tourist hotspot.

St Marys Leagues Club recently announced a partnership with the InterContinental Hotel Group (IGH) for the development of a 123 room luxury and contemporary hotel adjacent to the club’s current building.

The club’s CEO, Rod Desborough said the new Holiday Inn will be a big win for location tourism and for St Marys.

“Holiday Inn St Marys will offer our valued members and their families, as well as the wider rugby league community, visitors and tourists with an entirely new, contemporary accommodation offering,” Mr Desborough said.

Mr Desborough also said he hoped the venue would also attract people from the business community, with the new hotel boasting a state of the art business centre and conference rooms.

Matt Tripolone, the IHG Head of Development Australia and Japan, said the location of the new Holiday Inn will be vital to the expansion of the area.

“The positioning of the Holiday Inn Sydney St Marys provides the opportunity to expand our footprint in this prime location, ideally suited to both weekday and weekend travellers,” Mr Tripolone said.

St Marys League Club CEO Rod Desborough, IHG Director of Commercial Australasia Jenny Morrell, SMRLC President Warren Smith, IHG Chief Operating Officer Karin Sheppard, IHG Head of Development Australasia & Japan Matthew Tripolone.

Photo: Supplied.

Holiday Inn St Marys is the newest high-profile investment into tourism for the Greater Western Sydney area. Combined with Skypeak Adventures, iFly, Skyline drive-in, Wet ’n’ Wild and the Jetpack Adventures at the Penrith Lakes, the new Holiday Inn is pushing the west as Sydney’s adventure capital.

The location has tactical advantages for the future growth and development of the region, with the

proposed Western Sydney Airport and the under construction Sydney Zoo coming to the nearby region.

In the last financial year, Sydney received 9.2 million domestic visitors with a large proportion of them staying, visiting or playing in western Sydney, according to Destination NSW figures.

The new Holiday Inn St Marys is set to be opened to visitors and tourists in late 2017.

A free donation helps save lives

By Keegan Thomson

BLOOD isn’t something we think about enough but it is something we all have coursing through our veins, pumping through out hearts and filling into our brains.

Are you grossed out yet?

Each three months or so I roll up my sleeves and donate about 470 millilitres of my warm, red blood to the Australian Red Cross.

Each blood donation can save on average three lives with some blood types, like O negative, helping to save more.

Contrary to popular belief it is a bit of a relaxing process. First of all you’ll fill out some paperwork regarding your health and medical history. These are all easy questions about medication, lifestyle habits and travel history.

After the paperwork is filled out you’ll go into an interview room with a nurse. The nurses are always friendly and welcoming. They’ll grab a few measurements and then they’ll check your haemoglobin levels.

Haemoglobin is an iron containing protein in your red blood cells and according to the Red Cross,

“haemoglobin carries oxygen around the body and without enough of it your muscles and organs don’t get all the oxygen they need.”

Once that is all done and dusted the real business time commences.

You’ll be taken into the donation room - there you’ll sit down in these super cushiony, extremely relaxing chairs that are purpose-built for donating blood. A nurse will raise the chair up into a comfy reclined position and then the blood draining commences.

Now I understand people have issues with needles, they’re sharp and they sting, but the ones they use in the

blood donation don’t really sting at all.

You’ll have a nurse quickly put a needle in your arm and the sting can really only be felt for the first second, but after that you’ll feel nothing until the needle comes out again.

Once it is in and the blood is flowing it can take between 5 to 15 minutes before the nurses have enough. Throughout it all you don’t feel anything.

After the blood bag is full the nurse will carefully pull the needle out, strap you up with a bandage and a band aid.

You’ll stay in the chair for a few moments, just to make sure you’re

feeling alright, and then comes the best part of the donation process snack time!

When you donate your blood sugar levels can drop and you can sometimes feel a little light headed so to combat this the Red Cross supplies every donation clinic with biscuits, milkshakes, sandwiches and other great snacks. My personal favourite after a donation is a vanilla milkshake with some cheese and bickies.

You’ll get a feed for free once you’ve donated so you’re not just helping someone out with your donation but you’re also helping fill up your stomach.

All up the whole thing will take less than an hour and some workplaces will even subsidise your donations, so you can take an hour out of work to donate blood.

They’re constantly on the look out for more and more people to donate and they’re always in need for blood, particularly for blood types like O negative, so if you’re healthy and you’re feeling up for it book an appointment at your local donation centre.

For more info on donating blood call 13 14 95.

15 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

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Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Peace love and mung beans with TP I DON’T know about you but I prefer my Greens to be of the great unwashed variety. I’m not talking about zucchini or spinach; I’m talking about the political kind. I once respected these guys based on the fact that they would have joined up on the premise that they had a great love of the environment and they wanted to save it. They were passionate, principled and genuinely cared about something. That ideology made sense to me and it came from a very earthy place where peace, love and mung beans reigned supreme. It was disestablishment and you could tell the authenticity of a member according to the amount of patchouli oil wafting through the air or dreadlocks adorning their chilled out head.

Fast forward to the 21st Century and it’s difficult to pick a Green in a lineup at a media conference as they could easily be mistaken for Liberal party members. There they are wearing suits, fake pearls and trying their best to establish themselves as being mainstream in an attempt to capture more of the vote. It grieves me that this is where the so-called champions of the environment have ended up. So desperate are they to create this slick new image that they have a Dr as their leader. Why are they trying so hard

to fit into this mould that the original members would have been repulsed at.

Why are they aspiring for materialistic achievement which one would have thought flies in the face of the original intent of this Party?

This brings me to another name for this type of Green. The elitist Green if you like. Once, being a student of the world would have been valued, now academic snobbery seems to

have formed part of the new wave of elitist Green repertoire. Now it’s all about where they or their children have studied, travelled or are currently working. They can be seen unashamedly dining at 5 star hotels in Canberra, driving expensive cars and wearing expensive clothes.

They believe in equality but only as it applies to people who share their opinion and so social justice is

limited to like-minded people as their ideology does not extend to all. How many refugees have they actually hosted in their own homes? Not many I venture and the Nimby (Not in my backyard) attitudes are often borne out of hypocritical racist attitudes. If you’re going to talk the talk you have to walk the walk.

Many of this type of Green has made their money through “raping and pillaging” the resources of the earth to then grow a conscience and want to prevent others from doing the same. They happily tell everyone else what to do and then hypocritically do exactly the opposite. There’s a distinct whiff of oxymoron about it.

I wish we could still tell a Green from 10 paces due to the whiff in the air which indicated that they found sustenance in a vegetarian diet, dabbed themselves liberally with patchouli oil or reeked of a particular scent of smoke. Where you could tell due to their attire an attitude which said “I don’t give a damn what you think, I’m not changing for you thanks!” Come on guys I’m sure there are still some of you left. I just can’t see the dreadlocks for all of the suits.

Opinion: Cutting through all the red tape

By Bart Bassett

THE Federal Treasurer recently called on state governments to cut red tape and deliver a more streamline approach to land release in an attempt to provide more land for development.

This is in the hope that it will assist in minimising the ever-increasing costs of owning a home in our large cities like Sydney.

The fact is if you want developers to provide more land and housing choice rather than the current apartment construction trend then a number of things need to occur - some of which I have discussed in this column previously.

Data clearly shows that when it comes to property, buyers are looking for affordability, potential capital growth and they are also looking at where infrastructure is being built to provide the best opportunities for themselves and their family when it comes to job and education access.

So why wouldn’t the Treasurer be calling on the NSW Government to be building a rail line in partnership with them connecting south west Sydney, Badgerys Creek airport and north west Sydney? That commitment alone would trigger enormous investment in employment and housing along the proposed corridor. Just last week the public consultation period into new rail corridors for western Sydney closed so

I would strongly suggest the Treasurer look at building rail links that connect western Sydney to itself through a north-south rail connection rather than continuing down the old thinking of connecting western Sydney to the east.

In addition, the state government can rezone and release all the land they choose but unless it is supported by water, sewer and electricity connections then the release of actual land for housing construction slows because of the time and costs involved in upgrading those utilities for new land release. Add to that the tightening of lending criteria for developers to build infrastructure, if they are expected to provide it, and you have a real situation of red tape slowing down the smooth release of land for housing.

Let’s not forget all costs to a developer for the provision of infrastructure will be passed on to the buyer, there is no free ride. Government could make a significant change to the cost of

new housing if they provided all the infrastructure required which would also allow an expedited delivery of those projects and utility upgrades and then developers contributed the adopted levy per block so all land holders know the exact cost of bringing land to the market and all developers are treated equally when it comes to accessing utilities and the cost of that access.

Now let’s get to the real red tape problem in Sydney when it comes to development and that is the manner in which different councils handle development approvals. Some councils do a good job in playing their part in delivering housing to their community and I consider Blacktown Council to be one of the sensible councils when it comes to a realistic and professional attitude to the benefits that come from providing land for housing and employment. However there are other councils in western Sydney where the

councillors go out of their way to stall and obfuscate legitimate development applications which adds to the cost of development and adds to the problem of reduced housing choice. In my opinion some councils have displayed an ongoing attitude of mischief when it comes to playing their part in providing housing for Sydney. This is where the government could easily cut red tape and improve the delivery of housing by making sure Councils are not undermining the very planning processes that investors rely on when making investment decisions. It is time the state government set some very clear guidelines so that costly and unnecessary delays including court action is not tolerated without very good reason as it’s easy to waste money when it is ratepayers money and not the councillors own money.

The Treasurer said red tape needed to be cut to get more land supplied to the growing need for housing and to help alleviate the cost of housing but it is a much more complicated problem than simply red tape but building rail lines now, upgrading all utilities in planned release areas now and focusing on having councils act professionally when it comes to development would make a significant change from the current ongoing problems which just talking will not fix, because real actual action is required and it is required now.

Blacktown fast tracks ratepayers

By Conner Lowe

THE luckiest ratepayer in Blacktown City got a rapid reward on Wednesday when the winners of Blacktown’s Ratepayers Reward Program were announced.

The major prize in this year’s Program is a highspeed driving experience at Sydney Motorsport Park, Eastern Creek.

“The entire ratepayer rewards package is spectacular, and includes some pretty exciting and entertaining prizes,” said the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali.

“This year’s rates will be spent to bring some compassion back to council, as well as bringing down our maintenance backlog and providing the standard services that ratepayers expect.

“Once Council budgets primarily focused on roads and rubbish, but the community expects – rightly – that we should do more than this as well as give something back.

“This year’s budget has a series of provisions that make life a little easier for pensioners and facilities that faced closure some time ago are being continued as a result of strong ratepayer demand.

“Council has listened, learnt and acted,” Mayor Bali said.

To be eligible to go into the draw for prizes, Blacktown ratepayers had to pay their rates in full by 31 August and the winners were chosen by random selection.

2015 Ratepayers’ Winners and their Prizes: First prize: Kevin Whittam of Blacktown A Sydney Motorsport Park Turbo Pass valued at over $3,600 – 12 months of truly exhilarating SMSP

Motorsport experiences.

This prize includes: a V8 Race “Drive and Ride” Experience for two, a two lap “2-Up” SMPSP Motorcycle Ride experience for two, a six lap drive in the SMSP Ferrari F430, six adult ARDC Enthusiast Annual Memberships and a Drive Aware – stage 1 course for a family of four.

Second prize: Jennifer Mosley of Seven Hills Two nights’ accommodation (including airfares and airport transfers) for two people to the Gold Coast thanks to Breakaway Travel.

Third prize: Bert Tobin of Tregear A year’s supply of free movie tickets thanks to Hoyts Blacktown.

Fourth prize $100 Supermarket voucher for five lucky winners to spend at Seven Hills Plaza, awarded to: • Lolanda Laus of Doonside • Lyndon Thompson of Quakers Hill • Giuseppe Marotta of Marayong • Monica Kad of Colebee • Patricia Mellor of Blacktown Fifth prize: Five lucky ratepayers will receive a $100 voucher to spend at the Blacktown Workers Club, awarded to: • Lionel Kennett of Eastern Creek • Kathy Penning of Shalvey • Annie Aguilar of Marayong • George Kolokitas of Seven Hills • Key Sites Pty Ltd at Glendenning

Sixth prize: $50 Fashion voucher for six lucky winners to spend at Seven Hills Plaza, awarded to: • H Key of Vineyard • Sure Tread Stair Nosings Pty Ltd at Seven Hills • Seshadri Ananthakrishnan of Kellyville Ridge • Elfa Doci of Minchinbury • Yan Liu of Blacktown • Joan Cleveland of Minchinbury Seventh prize: $100 voucher to spend at Alpha Hotel Eastern Creek’s Bar Oak Grill.

• Carol Ross of Kings Langley Eighth prize: $50 voucher to spend at Riverstone Marketown for three lucky winners, awarded to: • Mohamed Khan of Bungarribee • Lorraine Brown of Colebee • D Yarkov of Mount Druitt

Volunteers Wanted: Have balls of fun supporting local youth

THE in-demand Midnight Basketball Mt Druitt program is about to kick off its tenth tournament and they are calling on volunteers to help make it the best one yet.

“Our Midnight Basketball tournament is never short of interest from young people but we are often short on volunteers” said Lindsay Trevitt, who last year was awarded Outstanding Volunteer of the Year by

Chifley MP, Ed Husic.

“As a not-for-profit program, each tournament night relies on volunteers to fill various roles such as helping in the kitchen, team coach or bus supervisor. You don’t need to know the rules of basketball to lend a hand.”

Midnight Basketball Mt Druitt will run at Emerton Leisure Centre on Friday nights from 21 October 2016 for eight weeks, concluding 9 December

2016. It is open to local youth aged 1218, who live in postcode 2770.

As well as basketball, young people partake in interactive life skills workshops and if required are dropped home by midnight. A nutritious dinner is provided for volunteers and participants.

“I highly recommend registering as a tournament volunteer to anyone who wants to support young people in our

community, meet new people, learn something new and most of all have fun, says Trevitt.

“Volunteer for just one night or all eight, it’s up to you. Any time you can give will make a big difference to the young people involved.”

Volunteers are needed from 7:00pm Friday nights. For more information or to register, visit https://www. midnightbasketball.org.au/mtdruitt

17 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

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Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Across the Andes: Into Bolivia

By Ben Cranney

HIGH in the Andes, a shallow trench marks the Chilean and Bolivian border. It works, too. Chilean tours aren’t allowed to cross, so we’d bused up to meet a Bolivian for the three day drive over the Andes to the Bolivian salt flats near Uyuni.

We were promised a reliable and roomy Landcruiser, but got the smaller, less sturdy Lexus. Having watched someone get left behind after arguing with their driver, we stayed quiet and seven of us squashed in. This meant that, despite the Spanish-English-Portuguese divide, we quickly became good friends.

Spanglishuese, anyone?

We’d drive for hours without seeing another vehicle, and then we’d crest a hill to find a few people admiring the view. One stop was Geyser Sol de Mañana, boiling pits of mud that you can walk amongst. In hindsight, I probably shouldn’t have gone so close. The sulphur and lack of oxygen at 4500 meters can make you light headed, and the spongy ground feels weak.

The drive is also littered with lakes, some marked by little stone cairns, the waypoints of thousands of travellers.

Stunning reflections of the sky and mountains are enhanced by the vivid colours of the algae and mineral

stained water. The blood red Laguna Colorada, covered in thousands of pink flamingos, and the hot spring fed Salar de Chalviri, especially stood out.

For the art lovers, stories of the landscapes supposedly influenced Salvador Dali, and with oxygen deprivation and a sulphur high, melting clocks weren’t out of place.

Don’t expect fancy accommodation.

In fact, we felt lucky to get a bed, because the drivers don’t book in advance. Choices are limited, and we ended up in a fly infested place made of salt blocks, eating dinner at a salt table sitting on salt chairs while

swatting away flies.

The last day is Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world. This place is incredible. In the wet season, the depth distorting, surrealist inspiring salt flats are covered in water. They reflect the sky and it feels like you are walking in the clouds. The other highlight is watching the sunrise from Incahuasi, an ‘island’ in the sea of salt, covered in huge, centuries old cactus.

And if you don’t breakdown or get left behind, you’ll make it to town of Uyuni, a gateway to Bolivia. Continue over the Andes to Potosi, to get a taste of an era long gone and the impact of the Spanish on the continent.

The Unintentional Medium By Suzi Samuel Through a Glass Darkly

MANY years ago, I had a lot of clients from a large Merchant Bank in London, so much so that at one point I thought I would have to set up a stall in their atrium. One of these lovely young girls rang me in a terrible panic for an emergency reading - something quite out of character for her. When I eventually managed to calm her down enough to find out what was wrong, she said she had been to another clairvoyant who told her she would die soon from a terrible illness. Easy to see why she was a bit upset then.

We did the reading and I could find no trace of plague or pestilence, just a slight weakness in the chest area from the aftermath of a cold.

This kind of behaviour from the more unscrupulous of those who claim to work with spirit makes me very angry. It is not up to us to predict death. We can predict the paths we are on, but those paths can change.

Cures may be found or circumstances avoided and it is totally reprehensible to put the fear of God into a healthy young woman.

Having said that, over the past couple of months, I have foreseen changes in circumstances for a couple

of my clients who have had friends or relations who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. In these cases perhaps seeing a finite time to the end of this life is not a bad thing as it enables us to say all the things we would want to say to a loved one.

My first husband was one of the early recipients of a transplanted kidney back in the 70’s and was ill for five

years. He underwent three transplants and for quite a time we were able to live a relatively normal life when one of the kidneys was working.

At this time, my cousin was married to a beautiful Polish girl called Kasia whose brother-in-law was an amateur astrologer. Once I found this out, I was desperate to get my chart done and nagged and nagged poor Pavel every

time he came within range. There was always some excuse as to why he hadn’t done it. He hadn’t had time, he had left it in Poland, the dog had eaten it, whatever. Kasia used to spend the summers in Poland and on 4th August 1980, they called my cousin and said, “Is Suzi alright? What’s happened to her?” Sadly my cousin replied that John had died that day. Pavel had done my chart and had foreseen that something cataclysmic would happen to me on 4th August and my world would change but hadn’t told me as he realised that it would probably have something to do with John.

The reason for my thoughts today is that I am facing losing my best friend and faithful companion, my beautiful golden retriever who came with me from England. My heart is breaking but I am making the most of every minute with him.

So maybe it is a lesson we should learn: life is precious and we should take time to love those we care about especially if we know our time together is limited.

The Unintentional Medium is available online and at all good bookstores.

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

WORD SEARCH

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

20

USA PRESIDENTS

SOLUTION: 21st October

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

WASHINGTON J ADAMS JEFFERSON MADISON MONROE J Q ADAMS JACKSON VAN BUREN W HARRISON TYLER POLK

TAYLOR FILLMORE PIERCE BUCHANAN LINCOLN A JOHNSON GRANT HAYES GARFIELD ARTHUR CLEVELAND

B HARRISON MCKINLEY T ROOSEVELT TAFT WILSON HARDING COOLIDGE HOOVER F D ROOSEVELT TRUMAN EISENHOWER

KENNEDY L JOHNSON NIXON FORD CARTER REAGAN G H W BUSH CLINTON G W BUSH OBAMA

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 Precious (4) 9 Governed (5) 10 Catch sight of (4) 11 Wooden slats in a barrel (6) 12 Coupons (8) 13 Restaurant server (8) 15 Filament (6) 17 A female spirit in Irish folklore (7) 19 Abridged (7) 22 A style of architecture (6) 24 Amazes (8) 26 A type of flowering vine (8) 28 Elaborate (6) 30 Tab (4) 31 Due (5) 32 An audible exhale (4)

solution 21/10/16

DOWN 1 Looted (4) 2 Army grunts (8) 3 Hogfish or razorfish (6) 4 Blindly imitative (7) 5 Altered or corrected (8) 6 Of the underworld (6) 7 Box (4) 14 San Antonio fort (5) 16 Not behind (5) 18 Snails (8) 20 Tightness (8) 21 A type of sponge cake (7) 23 Inns (6) 25 However (6) 27 An ancient city in Asia Minor (4) 29 Clothes (4)

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

22 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

MAZE

Rude-ness returns to Blacktown

By Keegan Thomson

WITH so much doom and gloom about the world at the moment we’ve almost all forgotten how to laugh, but Rodney Rude is coming back to western Sydney to preach his politically incorrect humour to a new generation of fans.

One of the country’s funniest and longest running live stand-up comedians, Rodney Rude will bring his unapologetically Australian humour to the Blacktown Workers for a special one night only performance.

Brandishing a new arsenal of jokes, Rodney Rude will once again take to the stage to pump out and promote a live show that is just what you’d expect from Rude; loud, live and full of expletives.

There is a tale, and although it is unverified, that says Rodney Rude was once told off by a school teacher who told him he “was a worthless troublemaker who would never amount to anything and that when he grew up people would only laugh at him.”

Turns out that teacher was correct about the latter. .

If you’re unfamiliar with Rude’s 45 year long back catalogue and on-stage antics then it is suggested you do a little research, because this comedian is not for everyone.

His live bar-room nonsense will make the audience forget about their troubles and will melt away any stress as he eggs on the audience and deals quickly with hecklers.

The show comes with a strict 18 plus age limit due to the very adult, and often explicitly funny nature of the jokes.

Catch Rodney Rude at Blacktown Workers Club on Saturday November 19. Tickets available at www.workersclub.com.au.

Keegan’s Kitchen

Last chance to soak up Sculpture by the Sea

By Brooke Boyce

THIS weekend is your last chance to soak up Sculpture by the Sea along Sydney’s iconic Bondi coastal walk.

This free, public exhibition is equal parts fun and thought-provoking with over 100 sculptures by artists from 17 countries, spanning over two kilometres from Bondi to Tamarama. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the largest annual sculpture exhibition in the world runs for three weeks, this year from 20 October to 6 November.

Be sure to check out the Bankstown Koorie Elders’ ‘Place of our Dreams’ totem poles, and Western Australian Johannes Pannekoek’s ‘Change Ahead’ rusted steel sculpture, winner of the top prize on offer.

Make a day of it and hit the beach (don’t forget the sunscreen), then head to Beach Burrito for five dollar tacos, or one of the many restaurants Bondi has on offer.

Walking tour routes are available for download on the Sculpture by the Sea website, including an easy route without stairs, and a free, family-friendly shuttle service runs between three points of the exhibition between 10am and 5pm.

Public transport is recommended due to parking restrictions and traffic congestion. Trains arrive at Bondi Junction Station, and from there a bus is the way to go (there are extra buses doing the rounds specifically for this exhibition). For those looking to up their step count, a three kilometre walk takes you from station to exhibition.

Visit www.sculpturebythesea.com/Bondi for more information about the exhibit, www.transportnsw.info on how to get to Bondi and 252 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach for tacos.

Spring onion, pea and mint soup & Parmesan crisp bread ... Serves 6 Mint is such a fresh and wild flavour to add to any meal this season. We have a mint bush growing on our balcony at the moment and it is becoming quite ravenous so I’m on the look out for any meals I can cook with mint in it. I came across this recipe and it seemed simple and tasty.

INGREDIENTS: knob of butter 1 diced potato small bunch of spring onion, sliced 1 litre of vegetable stock 900 grams of frozen peas small bunch of mint, leaves picked 1 tablespoon of olive oil

METHOD: Heat the olive oil and butter in a thick based pan and add the spring onions and diced potato once the butter has melted. Gently fry but keep stiring so the potato doesn’t crisp up. Pour in the stock and simmer until the potato is tender.

Stir the peas into the pot and bring to the boil, cook until the peas are nearly done. Remove the heat, add the mint leaves and whizz in a hand held blender blender until smooth. Reheat on the stove top and serve with a sprinkle of your favourite hard cheese.

Sydney Festival 2017 Parramatta & Western Sydney SYDNEY Festival returns in 2017 with a fantastic line-up of artists and events across Parramatta and Western Sydney from Australia and around the world. Featuring a dedicated circus program in Parramatta, a major visual arts exhibition, five world premieres and two exclusive performances, Festival Director Wesley Enoch’s inaugural program is bursting with free and ticketed events.

Sydney Festival is delighted to launch Circus City in Parramatta. Running for ten days from January 12 – 22, Circus City will feature four shows, 34 workshops and 55 free events including talks, films, an exhibition and a series of events for circus professionals.

Riverside Theatres and The Spaghetti Circus Big Top in Prince Alfred Square will play host to this celebration of circus, bringing together different practices from overseas and across the country. Featuring work by Canada’s Cirque Élioze, UK’s Ockham’s Razor, and Brisbane’s Circa and Company 2, the program will highlight the evolution and theatricality of contemporary circus practice.

An international sensation since 2009, Cirque Éloize’s iD is a high-energy blend of circus arts and urban dance, featuring an inspiring soundtrack and innovative video projections. Coming to Sydney straight from a successful London season, fifteen acrobats, aerialists, hip hop and break dancers come together to present a thrilling show that’s been seen

by over one million people since its premiere.

A gigantic hit in 34 countries over six continents, Circa combine the stripped-back sensibility and aesthetic of contemporary dance and theatre with phenomenal acrobatic prowess in HUMANS. In their edgy and refreshing take on contemporary circus, the artists of Circa regularly push the limits of the human body and will dazzle you with a display of the seriously superhuman in this world premiere performance.

With a script developed from 10 years of recorded personal conversations, Ich Nibber Dibber maps the lives and practices of three women coming of age in the 21st Century in a world premiere performance at Sydney Festival. By Australian collaborative performance ensemble Post, this comedic and political commentary looks at what it means to be a woman, an artist, and the way we make sense of the world in conversation with those nearest to us.

Wesley Enoch the Festival Director believes that through the partnerships of art centres and councils they are able to deliver exciting and artistic programs from around the world.

“Sydney Festival has been working in Western Sydney for decades. Through partnerships with the fantastic arts centres and councils throughout the region we have been delivering some of the most exciting and artistically enriching programs sourced from around the world and around the corner,” Mr Enoch said.

“In 2017, we partner up with the City of Parramatta to bring you Circus City which will bring together some of the best circus companies in the world in a celebration of one of the oldest artforms on the planet. Visit the big top in Prince Alfred Square, see shows or get involved in workshops where you can learn to fly the trapeze. Circus City will be for all ages. Run away to the circus.”

Festival multi packs and single tickets are on sale now at: sydneyfestival.org.au

23 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

90 ADELAIDE STREET, OXLEY PARK HOME SWEET HOME

D L SO

A PLUS PROPERTY GROUP are delighted to bring to the market a selection of 5 beautifully appointed 3 and 4 bedroom townhouses. These architecturally designed townhouses feature open plan living, oversized bedrooms, two car spaces and fully equipped European style kitchens. The enviable location gives residents great access to local shopping centres, schools and public transport that provides direct links to Penrith and Sydney. For a short period of time, we are giving buyers the opportunity to enter into the market at very affordable, pre-construction prices.

More features include: • Timber floor in living and dining areas • Built-in wardrobes in all bedrooms • Ceiling fans to all bedrooms • Daikin Ducted reverse cycle Air-Conditioning • Remote controlled garage • Internal laundries • Quality building materials used throughout

• Quality carpet upstairs • Main bedroom with Ensuite and walk-in wardrobe • Energy efficient Downlights throughout • Ample storage space • 2.5 Bathrooms • Low maintenance yard

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FIRST HOME BUYERS QUALIFY FOR A FULL FIRST HOME BUYERS GRANT. INVESTORS RECEIVE $5000 TOWARDS STAMP DUTY. These are just a few of the many features these stunning townhouses have to offer, be sure to book an appointment with A PLUS PROEPRTY GROUP on 02 9833 4002 OR 0416 922 477.

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34 AUSTRALIA STREET, ST MARYS PRE CONSTRUCTION PRICES A Plus Property Group is now giving you the opportunity to purchase one of the best townhouses to come on the market in the St Marys and Penrith district. This boutique development is a selection of 6 townhouses which all feature a generous layout, 3 bedrooms, 1 Study, 2 car spaces and European style kitchens with smeg appliances as standard.

Western Sydney is one of the fasted growing economies in Australia, creating new benchmarks in building-infrastructure, construction and technology. The Western Sydney Airport will be the first new international airport built in Australia in over 50 years and is set to bring major infrastructure upgrades, skilled jobs and economic growth. Penrith Council is setting the pace as a City of the Future’.

More features include: • Timber flooring in living and dining areas • Built-in wardrobes in all bedrooms • Fans to all bedrooms • Daikin Ducted reverse cycle Air-Conditioning • Large car port • Internal laundry • Quality building materials used throughout

e it m lable i ted ava i Lim ly 2 n o -

• Quality carpet to all bedrooms • Main bedroom with En-suite and Walk-in robe • Energy efficient Downlights throughout • Ample storage space • 2.5 Bathrooms • Low maintenance yard & strata complex

Built by one of the leading property developers in the local area.

QUALIFIES FOR FULL FIRST HOME BUYERS GRANT + STAMP DUTY. INVESTORS RECEIVE $5000 TOWARDS STAMP DUTY. For a limited time only, we are pleased to be offering highly affordable, pre-construction prices so please contact A-Plus Real Estate today to ensure you don’t miss out.

85 MORRIS STREET, ST MARYS GREAT VALUE Penrith is one of the fastest growing cities in Sydney. The multi-million dollar transformation, that is already underway, will create new benchmarks in building-infrastructure, construction, technology and government arts and culture. Penrith council is setting the pace as a City of the Future.

D L SO

A Plus Property Group is now giving you the opportunity to purchase one of the best townhouses to come on the market in the St Marys/Penrith district. This boutique development is a selection of eight townhouses which all feature a generous layout, 3 bedrooms, 2 car spaces and European style kitchens with smeg appliances as standard.

More features include: • Timber flooring in living and dining areas • Built-in wardrobes in all bedrooms • Fans to all bedrooms • Daikin Ducted reverse cycle Air-Conditioning • Large car port • Internal laundry • Quality building materials used throughout

• Quality carpet upstairs • Main bedroom with En-suite • Energy efficient Downlights throughout • Ample storage space • 2.5 Bathrooms • Low maintenance yard & strata complex

Built by one of the leading property developers in the local area.

QUALIFIES FOR FULL FIRST HOME BUYERS GRANT + STAMP DUTY. INVESTORS RECEIVE $5000 TOWARDS STAMP DUTY. For a limited time only, we are pleased to be offering highly affordable, pre-construction prices so please contact A-Plus Real Estate today to ensure you don’t miss out.

www.85morrisrise.com

1/99 Canberra St, Oxley Park | 9833 4002

www.apluspropertygroup.com.au

GROWTH SEES A NEW SYDNEY DEVELOP

PROPERTY SALES AND LEASING, NOW OPEN IN MARSDEN PARK 9835 3355 | www.bennettproperty.com.au

By Matthew Bennett, Bennett Property Group

WHAT exciting times we live in.

NSW property is booming due to huge public and private sector investment.

Confidence is high amongst all groups involved in our city’s rapid expansion.

The government is secure, interest rates are low and the population is growing. Investors from all around the world are keen to back NSW. The flow on from this investment is ongoing through many sectors. We are moving ahead on the back of bulldozers, cranes, bricks and concrete.

Our Marsden Park office hosts lots of local and international investors.

Our little office on the side of busy Richmond Road is a true multicultural experience with purchasers from all over Asia and Europe regularly visiting to discuss and plan their property investments and developments.

We have now developed a multilingual staff who can handle a variety of languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien, Macedonian, Maltese and Afrikaans.

Our newest team member starting next month speaks Hindi. We used to stock English Breakfast Tea and International Roast for our customers.

It is now a collection of multiple milk

varieties and hot drinks from around the globe.

Ken Chua who runs our Asian Desk, was born in Singapore. This week, he sold a Quakers Hill home to an Indian family. The original home owners were from the Philippines. Today. I sat and watched Ken act as translator for a Chinese group. They were meeting with an old Maltese farmer

selling in Riverstone. In that meeting, English was the second language for everyone and everyone had been born overseas.

One of our current clients are a Chinese Investment company originally based in Beijing. They are spending hundreds of millions of dollars in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. I asked them why they are spending so much money here rather than back home. The answer was simple – “the West is safe”.

This new world can be intimidating for those of us who were not only born here, but are second, third or even fourth generation Australians.

However, the diversity of cultures has brought fresh ideas and life to our country. This is the new Australia.

They are driving our economy and the great majority of our new friends are lovely human beings. They are just trying to start a new life in our great country and are already contributing to make it greater.

If you wish to discuss any property matter, call the Bennett Team on 9835 3355.

BROKERS MORE POPULAR THAN EVER WITH the news on November 1 where the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has chosen to hold the official cash rate steady at 1.5% for the third consecutive month. This decision was widely anticipated by economists and brokers with the vast majority of commentators predicting no change.

Many have accepted that such low mortgage rates have contributed to a renewed strengthening in housing market conditions. Home loan lending is increasing in Australia as home buyer confidence continues to grow.

Experts are warning that an oversupply of housing stock exists in capital cities.

Home buyers continue to seek better service and a better rate from the Banks and are turning to Mortgage Brokers who can provide a better proposition to cater for each consumer’s individual needs and most often provide a better deal.

Mortgage brokers are now responsible for writing over half of Australia’s home loans and are

valued for their choice, expertise and convenience, according to a new survey commissioned by the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA).

From a 49.9 per cent share of the market in the March 2014 quarter, total new home lending to mortgage brokers increased to 51.9 per cent in the March 2015 quarter.

Over this time there was a $44.2 billion increase in mortgage lending across Australia and brokers were responsible for 71 per cent of this increase, Australian Bureau of Statistics data reveals.

Brokers were also found to be proficient at matching the right product to customer’s needs. In fact 30.2 per cent of broker initiated home loans went to smaller lenders, demonstrating that brokers offer consumers real choice and have access to a wider range of mortgage products than banks or other financial organisations.

Investors in particular are convinced

of the value of using a mortgage broker, with research showing that 40.5 per cent of broker originated loans are from investors. Owner-occupiers follow closely behind at 37 per cent of broker-originated loans, then first home buyers at 14 per cent and commercial borrowers at 6.0 per cent.

Lenders are also complimentary of

the role of mortgage brokers. Those interviewed for the MFAA study said lenders were moving to a partnership model with brokers, whereby both work together to provide customers with the most appropriate proposition.

Great news for customers!

Contact Wealthwiz for a free home loan review.

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**The comparison rate is based on a $150,000 secured loan for 25 years. Warning: This Comparison Rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees and or other loan amounts may result in a different Comparison Rate.

**The comparison rate is based on a $150,000 secured loan for 25 years. Warning: This Comparison Rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees and or other loan amounts may result in a different Comparison Rate.

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

25 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

realestate real

ER B EM TION V NO AUC

GROSE VALE

ER B EM TION V NO AUC

4 VACANT LAND!

4

SHANES PARK

2

5

5 ACRES - TWO ROAD FRONTAGES $000,000 CASTLEREAGH

BREATHTAKING VIEWS • First time ever offered for sale!

• Prestigious location, in quiet no-through road • Mostly cleared and arable. Build your dream home • Ridge top position with fabulous northerly aspect • Wide road frontage • DECEASED ESTATE – MUST BE SOLD!

• Cleared level 5 acre corner block • Town water and creek • Main home: 2 bedrooms plus study, modern kitchen and bathroom • Large barn incorporating beautifully presented 2 bedroom studio • 2nd driveway, heavy vehicle parking area • Close to freeways and Marsden Park redevelopment area

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November 2:00 – 3:00pm

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November 4:00 – 4:30pm

Address:

34 Horans Lane

Address:

86 Shane Park Road

Land size: Approx 4.4 acres (1.81 hectares)

Land size: Approx 5 acres

Auction:

15 November, 6:30pm - The Sebel Resort, Windsor

Auction:

15 November, 6:30pm (unless sold prior) - The Sebel Resort, Windsor

Details:

Michael Bennett - 4578 1234

Details:

Michael Bennett/Ken Chua - 4578 1234

ER B EM TION V NO AUC

RICHMOND

ER B EM TION V NO AUC

2

RENOVATE OR REDEVELOP • First time offered for sale in over 60 years • Quaint older style cottage, full of character • Located under the magnificent plane trees at the entry to Richmond • Air Conditioning and NBN Connection • Located close to shops, schools, Ham Common and the University • DECEASED ESTATE - MUST BE SOLD!

1

1

3

KURMOND

1

2

DECEASED ESTATE - AFFORDABLE ACREAGE! CASTLEREAGH $000,000 • First time offered for sale!

• Fully fenced 2.5 acres with town water • Comfortable 3 bedroom brick home ripe for renovation • Large double garage and potential for more rooms under house • Close to schools and shops. Beautiful mountain views • Plenty of value-add here - MAKE YOUR MARK!

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November 11:00 - 11:30am

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November 12:00 – 12:30pm

Address:

5 Windsor Street

Address:

8 Inverary Drive

Land size: Approx 556 square metres

Land size: Approx 2.5 acres (1.01 hectares)

Auction:

15 November, 6:30pm - The Sebel Resort, Windsor

Auction:

15 November, 6:30pm - The Sebel Resort, Windsor

Details:

Michael Bennett - 4578 1234

Details:

Michael Bennett/Ken Chua - 4578 1234

KURRAJONG (02) 4573 1228 80 Old Bells Line of Road RICHMOND (02) 4578 1234 239 Windsor Street MARSDEN PARK (02) 9835 3355 Cnr Richmond Road & South Street www.bennettproperty.com.au

KURRAJONG HEIGHTS

4

2

2

VENDOR COMMITTED ELSEWHERE! MUST BE SOLD! • Modern and spacious 4-bedroom family home • Open-plan casual living areas and formal dining • Huge timber entertaining deck, double garage • Timber kitchen with gas, Smeg oven and dishwasher • Carpeted bedrooms, master with walk-in robe and ensuite • Terraced backyard, fully fenced with double garage • 5KW back-to-grid solar, air conditioning, slow-combustion heater

EAST KURRAJONG

5

• Modern and spacious 5-bedroom brick family home • Huge undercover entertaining area, saltwater swimming pool • Open-plan layout with multiple living areas and verandah • Renovated interiors with timber floors, new carpet, new paint • Sleek new kitchen with Caesarstone and stainless steel appliances • Slow combustion fire, ceiling fans, air conditioning • Spacious block of land (almost 1 acre) adjoining cleared parkland

Saturday 5 November, 12:00 – 12:30pm

Inspect:

Saturday 5 November, 1:15 – 1:45pm

Address:

6 Nina Place

Address:

422 Old East Kurrajong Road

Land size: Approx 1012 square metres

Land size: Approx 3506 square metres

Price:

$730,000 - $770,000

Price:

$1.1 million - $1.15 million

Details:

Maurice Mantovani - 4573 1228

Details:

Maurice Mantovani/Michael Bennett - 4573 1228

MAGNIFICENT RURAL HOME • Five-bedroom family home on 10-acre property • Updated kitchen with gas cooktop, breakfast bar • Large covered verandah looking over valley • Informal/formal dining rooms, library, study • Double lock-up garage, built-in robes, fireplace • Close to Kurrajong Village, shops and schools • Peaceful and secluded hideaway!

5

2

SENSATIONAL FAMILY HOME WITH ABUNDANT SPACE CASTLEREAGH $000,000

Inspect:

EAST KURRAJONG

3

2

2

NORTH RICHMOND

4

LARGE LIGHT-FILLED FAMILY HOME CASTLEREAGH

• Large split-level home with timber features and high ceilings • Spacious bedrooms; main with ensuite and walk-in robe • Updated interior including new carpets and fresh paintwork • Covered outdoor deck with views to the river • Low maintenance, fully fenced back yard • In a quality cul-de-sac location

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November, 2:30 – 3:00pm

Inspect:

Saturday 5 & 12 November, 10:00 – 10:30am

Address:

587 East Kurrajong Road

Address:

37A Flinders Place

Land size: Approx 10 acres (4.1 hectares)

Land size: Approx 924 square metres

Price:

$1.15 million - $1.25 million

Price:

$830,000 - $850,000

Details:

Maurice Mantovani - 4573 1228

Details:

Matthew Bennett/Nicole Cooney - 4578 1234

2

2

$000,000

KURRAJONG (02) 4573 1228 80 Old Bells Line of Road RICHMOND (02) 4578 1234 239 Windsor Street MARSDEN PARK (02) 9835 3355 Cnr Richmond Road & South Street www.bennettproperty.com.au

westernhistory western

28 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

Social media: an agent for remembering Continued from last issue.....

T

HE Blacktown plant was the most modern and up-to-date design and compared favourably with overseas plants of the same type. The (pillarless) factory building, which stood on 6 ½ acres, was unique because the walls were supported by a saw-tooth roof. The modern design left the entire floor space unrestricted for production and machinery. The architects, according to an article published at the time, excelled in planning staff amenities as both the kitchen and dining room had been fitted out with the most up-to-date refrigeration, heating and cooking equipment. Employees enjoyed annual picnics as well as monthly dance night in the canteen recreation room which were organized by the social committee.

Careful planning had gone into the selection of the Blacktown site because transport links and a ready supply of workers was necessary to guarantee the future success of the business. Thus, the introduction of electric train travel to Blacktown seemed to be the deciding facilitator that tipped the scale in favour of the Blacktown site.

Unfortunately, in the latter years of the 1960s, Australia experienced declining levels of growth and productivity and unemployment. Furthermore, when import tariffs were reduced manufacturers - particularly in the textile, clothing and footwear industry – were forced to compete with cheaper imports. The 25% cut in tariffs - implemented by the Whitlam Government in 1973 - impacted adversely on workers who lost jobs due to the restructuring.

August 1979 marked the end of an era when Norton Whitmont, the then General Manager, announced the closure of the Blacktown plant. Over one hundred employees were put out of work because the company, which had lost a major share of the clothing market, was incapable of competing with cheap imports coming in from Asia. As a consequence, Whitmonts was forced to rationalize its business interests by moving production to larger premises in Victoria. Nevertheless, in the annals of social media, the Blacktown enterprise of Whitmonts is remembered fondly.

N E PE A N HIST RY ONLY

$10!

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Would you like to read about the history of the Nepean?

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Help keep our history preserved by purchasing your copy. ORDER NOW!

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In turn you will help maintain our region’s history sources as 50 per cent of proceeds go to the Nepean and St Marys Historical Societies

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Former Blacktown star bound for USA

By Noel Rowsell

FORMER Blacktown West Basketball Association representative Deng Gak has announced he has committed to the University of Miami in the prestigious NCAA. Gak had plenty of offers on the table for his services, choosing the Miami Hurricanes over Duke University (Blue Devils), the University of Kansas (Jayhawks) and the University of Florida (Gators).

Starting his junior career at the Blacktown West Association, Gak is also a former Australian Under 17 and Under 19 representative and is currently in his senior year of high school in the US. Gak was attending Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence (COE) at the start of 2015, before moving to both play and study in the US at the Blair Academy in New Jersey.

The University of Miami (Hurricanes) college team competes in the renowned Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), alongside highlyreputed basketball programs such as the Duke Blue Devils, University of Louisville (Cardinals), the University of North Carolina (Tar Heels) and Syracuse University (Syracruse

Blacktown’s Deng Gak throws down a slam dunk for Australia. Photo: FIBA

Orange).

Deng’s junior career in Australia was quite extraordinary, as follows: 2011 - U14’s Div 2 and State Cup Champion.

2012- U16’s Div 1 squad member 2013 - NSW Metro squad member

at the East Coast Challenge. Broke his ankle during the tournament, disrupting his 2013 season.

2014 - Offered Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence (COE) scholarship. Made the NSW Metro U/18 squad and was also selected to

represent Australia at the U/17 FIBA World Championship 2015 - Basketball Australia COE scholarship holder. U/18 NSW Metro squad member. Selected to represent Australia at the U/19 FIBA World Championship.

Renee Excited about first season with Giants

By Conner Lowe

IT’S not often an athlete can say that they played in both the W-League with the Western Sydney Wanderers and in the women’s AFL with the GWS Giants but for local Cranebrook girl Renee Tomkins it’s all about to come true.

Renee has played sport her entire life mostly consumed by football.

She played for the Premier Division club Marconi and also represented NSW and Australia in Futsal. Last year Renee decided to try AFL and immediately fell in love with the skillful and fast-paced game.

“I was trying to juggle between both football and AFL last year and when the time came to decide a sport that I wanted to play I decided to stick with AFL,” Renee said.

“I found a sport that I wasn’t 100 per cent good at and it was a new adventure for me, so I decided to stay and improve myself and see where it could take me,” she said.

Renee has only played AFL for two seasons and in her first season with limited playing time due to an injury that she received playing for Marconi she received “Best first season player” for the Penrith Rams AFL club.

Renee spoke about the difficulty of leaving football after 20 years but

talked about how much more she is capable of, stating that although her age is 30, she still has many years of sport left in her.

“Obviously leaving football after so long was a difficult decision for me but I had given everything I had to offer for the sport and represented at the highest level.

“AFL was a new challenge for me and as long as injury can stay away I hope to have many more seasons to

come with the GWS Giants,” she said.

During her season with the Penrith Rams, Renee spent a lot of the season in the GWS Giants academy playing games at the SCG against rivals Sydney Swans. Renee also represented NSW in AFL and finished equal third in the Sydney AFL James Medal best and fairest count.

During the AFL draft for the augural Women’s AFL season Renee describes the moment she saw her

name come up for the GWS Giants.

“I was watching the draft live on the computer, and then the last 4 came up for the giants and I was draft pick #96, I felt pretty pumped, I just couldn’t believe it,” she said.

The first season for the Women’s AFL is set to begin in 2017. It’s bound to be an exciting first season for the Women’s AFL and with quality players like Renee Tomkins in the mix it’s sure to deliver.

29 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

sport

30 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER

SPRING CARNIVAL FUN AT THE GEE-GEES

On the way to Melbourne for the big Cup race Fun and games on Derby Day

12 year old Comets player, Ziad needs our help

23 years and still strong. Happy anniversary Meags

WHAT a great Spring Carnival it has been in horse racing. I’ve had some great times these past few weeks, starting with the Cox Plate, followed by Derby Day and culminating in my first ever trip to Melbourne for the race that stops the nation - the mighty Melbourne Cup. I’ve picked some good winners and I’ve also backed a few whom I think are still running. Ahh, that’s all part of the fun.

By the time you’re holding this edition in your hand you’ll know who the Cup winner was! Gee it’s a hard race to pick, with the entire pack of 24 worthy of being there and capable of being first past the post.

It’s a great date on our nation’s calendar with the best horses, the best jockeys, the champagne, the frocks and the fascinators.. it’s a vibe like no other event in the world and it has been even more spectacular than usual for me this year being track-side at Flemington with The Grill Team.

24 HOURS

And another thing....

Big Zee is a 12 year St Clair Comets player facing a humongous challenge - he needs major surgery to remove a brain tumour. You can read more about his story on page 11 of this edition. If you can spare a few bucks please visit https://www.gofundme.com/pray-for-big-zee-2w3hh6c and let’s all help give young Ziad the best chance at beating this dreaded tumour.

And another thing.....

Sunday chalked up 23 years of being married to my beautiful wife Meags.

Love you more than ever babe.

MG (random Westie) OAM

0415 982 093

Blue Sox ready for action in ABL

31 Western News 4 November 2016 Issue 22

sport

Photos: SMP Images

AFTER a long and demanding off-season, the Sydney Blue Sox are primed and ready to end their Championship drought. Since the Australian Baseball League’s (ABL) inception – in its current format – the Blue Sox have made five finals appearances in six years. Despite the consistency and overall success, the ABL Title still alludes NSW’s premier baseball team.

This season, however, the vibe is different. Sydney Blue Sox Manager, Jason Pospishil, will take the helm for his fifth season and feels there is

something special brewing.

“I’ve been so impressed at the shape all the boys are in and their performances so far in spring have been great,” Pospishil revealed.

“We will be more than ready to go come the first series against Adelaide.”

Pospishil’s drive and determination has had a ripple-effect to the playing group. Star pitcher, Luke Wilkins echoes the sentiment.

“We want to have a successful year for our fans and city,” Wilkins stated.

“The time is now. We want to bring home our first ABL title.”

The pre-season intensity will increase in coming weeks, with two exhibition games sure to place the squad in prime position for the first series against Adelaide on November 18th.

On Friday November 4th the Blue Sox will take-on a NSW State League All Star side, before challenging an Asian All Star line-up on Saturday November 12th. Both games will be held at Blue Sox Stadium.

For the Blue Sox and their fanbase, there is a sense of belief for the upcoming season. The elusive

Championship beckons and Pospishil has taken a philosophical approach to what lies ahead.

“I’ve been so impressed at the shape all the boys are in and their performances so far in spring have been great,” Pospishil reflected.

“At the end of the day, you prepare to the best of your ability. The rest will all take care of itself.”

The Sydney Blue Sox commence their ABL campaign on Friday November 18th 2016.

More information and tickets can be located at www.sydneybluesox.com.au

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Western NEWS Friday, 4 November 2016

sport

Wanderers go three matches unbeaten

By Christian Layland

THE NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers have rued missed opportunities for the second week in a row as they drew 1-1 with Central Coast Mariners.

Brendon Santalab scored the fastest ever Red & Black goal in the Hyundai A-League but the Wanderers couldn’t hold on with Adam Berry equalising in the second half.

It was the perfect start as Brendon Santalab scored his fifth goal of the season: getting on the end of an impressive Nicolás Martínez pass after the Argentine collected a brilliant diagonal ball himself.

The Wanderers then went on a rampage with chances falling to Mitch Nichols, Santalab, Kearyn Baccus and two to Jumpei with an impressive effort from the Japanese winger hitting the crossbar.

Nevertheless the Red & Black went into the sheds in the ascendency and almost doubled their lead in the opening minute of the second half.

Martínez again was the centre of the creativity with the winger creating space, expertly delaying his pass and playing a ball of perfection to the onrushing Nichols. Unfortunately the midfielder was unable to convert, shooting wide.

From that moment, the Mariners began to play themselves into the match with chances beginning to fall to both teams.

Dimas expertly robbed a Mariners’ attacker on the verge of shooting while Santalab and Martínez

continued to cause the away team problems in defence.

But it was the Mariners who equalised after capitalising on a misdirected pass.

The remainder of the match was devoid of any real chances until the final minute when Nichols shot the wrong side of the near post and the Mariners had a penalty shout waved away.

A point each leaves Wanderers undefeated in their past three matches and in fifth position at the conclusion of Saturday night’s matches.

Wanderers travel to Western Australia next week to play Perth Glory in a double header with the Westfield W-League playing the first game of the day at nib Stadium.

Western Sydney Wanderers 1 (Brendon Santalab 2’) Central Coast Mariners 1 (Adam Berry 61’) Western Sydney Wanderers: Andrew Redmayne (GK), Scott Neville, Robbie Cornthwaite, Aritz Borda, Jack Clisby, Keanu Baccus (Jacob Melling), Dimas (C), Mitch Nichols, Nicolás Martínez (Steven Lustica), Jumpei, Brendon Santalab (Lachlan Scott) Unused subs: Jerrad Tyson (GK), Brendan Hamill.

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