Editors Picks
Featured
26 February 2024
GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
Local community groups urged to apply
COMMUNITY groups undertaking activities which reduce stigma and enhance help seeking to reduce the risk of suicide are encouraged to apply for Southwestern Sydney PHN’s current round of Suicide Prevention Grants.
19 February 2024
SYDWEST WELCOMES TWO NEW BOARD MEMBERS
SYDWEST Multicultural Services has welcomed Sandra Casinader and Kim Heng to its Board of Directors.
Sandra is the Group Head of Enterprise Learning and Capability for the Westpac Group where she is accountable for the organisation’s learning strategy, capability frameworks and learning governance as well as enterprise-wide data and digital programs.
Her background spans strategy, culture change, transformation and customer-facing roles, and she has more than 25 years’ experience in financial services. She is also a former Board Member of Participate Australia, which merged with SydWest last year.
Kim Heng brings to the board expertise in technology and operations with an extensive background in leading business transformations.
Currently the Chief Operating Officer of Wilson Asset management, Kim’s career spans both the private and government sectors where she has helped drive modern practices to organisations to boost efficiency and effectiveness.
SydWest CEO Elfa Moraitakis has welcomed the new appointees while thanking outgoing board members Naveen Jayavarapu and Matt Pancino for their service.
‘We are very grateful for the expertise Matt and Naveen have contributed to our organisation, particularly during our merger last year,” Ms Moraitakis said.
‘I’d like to warmly welcome Sandra and Kim and I look forward to working with them and the rest of the Board as we refresh our strategy and position SydWest for future growth, and work through the government’s reforms to the aged care and NDIS sectors.’
Featured
10 February 2024
ENERGY WORKERS STRIKE AT PARRAMATTA
"We are essential workers who always show up"
ELIZABETH FRIAS
WORKERS at two of the country’s largest energy providers, Endeavour Energy and Transgrid, walked out for 24 hours on Thursday.
07 February 2024
RENOWNED PHYSICIAN DR JOHN HAGEN'S BOOK LAUNCH
RENOWNED physician and author, Dr. John Hagen, is set to captivate readers and literary enthusiasts alike with the launch of his much-anticipated medical fiction debut.
The event, scheduled for February 8, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, will take place at the exquisite Hilton Sydney on Level 4, 488 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
What to Expect?
Book Signing & Launch: Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to secure a personally signed copy of Dr. Hagen's newest masterpiece. Immerse yourself in the compelling world of medical fiction as the author unveils his latest work, promising an unforgettable journey through the intersection of medicine and storytelling.
Meet and greet: Indulge in an evening of intellectual discourse and camaraderie as you engage in conversations with Dr. John Hagen himself.
The event provides a unique chance to connect with the author, gain insights into his creative process, and discuss the inspiration behind his gripping medical narratives.
Take advantage of the networking opportunities, and don't miss the chance for memorable photo opportunities with the distinguished author.
Join in celebrating the culmination of Dr John Hagen's literary achievements at this prestigious book launch event. Whether you are a long-time fan of medical fiction or a newcomer to the genre, this evening promises to be a memorable celebration of storytelling and medical expertise.
Event Details:
Date and Time: February 8, 2024 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Location: Hilton Sydney - Level 4, 488 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
30 January 2024
TAXI FARE HOTLINE HOTS UP
SINCE the NSW Government mandated Taxi Fare Hotline stickers on all vehicles in September 2023, there has been a notable increase in refunds for passengers receiving unfair taxi fares. From November to January, there were 679 calls and 874 QR code scans compared to 473 and 97 in the previous year. Taxi companies issued 528 refunds in the last five months, comprising over half of all refunds since the hotline's inception in November 2022. In the 2022-23 financial year, more than 68 million point-to-point trips were recorded in NSW, with 892 refunds issued since the Taxi Fare Hotline launch.
30 January 2024
SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE NSW Government's Open Streets program encourages councils to organize more community events by providing up to $150,000 for street closures. Aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures, the initiative supports free and safe cultural events such as markets, performances, dining, and street parties. Part of the $15M Vibrant Streets package, it aligns with Vibrancy reforms that simplify the event approval process without requiring a Development Application, significantly reducing associated costs. Applications are open from January 29, and funded events must occur by January 2025. Visit the Vibrant Streets Package website for details.
30 January 2024
PHARMACY PRESCRIBING TRIAL EXPANDS TO SKIN
STARTING in 2024, the NSW Government's pharmacy prescribing trial expands access to prescription medicines for specific skin conditions. Participating pharmacists can provide certain medications without a prescription after a consultation. The trial aims to ease the burden on general practitioners. From late March, pending ethics approval, impetigo and shingles treatments will be included. The initiative, which began with urinary tract infection treatment, has expanded to over 1,100 pharmacies. The skin condition treatment segment of the trial will run for 12 months, benefiting patients and improving timely access to care. More details are available on the NSW Health website.
