Editors Picks
03 November 2024
PRESTONS A STEP CLOSER TO NEW AMBULANCE STATION
THE Liverpool community is a step closer to having a new purpose-built ambulance station at Prestons following the purchase of a site on Enterprise Circuit.
The new Prestons Ambulance Station is being delivered as part of the NSW Government’s $615.5M NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program.
Health Infrastructure and NSW Ambulance carried out a thorough evaluation of the site to ensure the location best meets the needs of our emergency ambulance operations and paramedic staff.
New ambulance stations are located at places which optimise ambulance response performance and meet the needs of local community. NSW Ambulance identified Prestons as a high priority location following a comprehensive service planning process using best practice modelling software to map Triple Zero (000) calls.
The next steps for the project include design development and seeking planning approval for the new ambulance station. Construction and operational timeframes will be determined as the project progresses.
The NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program will deliver 30 additional ambulance stations and supporting infrastructure across Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle and Wollongong over the coming years, boosting frontline emergency ambulance care.
Health Infrastructure is working with NSW Ambulance and other Government stakeholders to identify potential sites for new ambulance stations.
Sites are confirmed for North Sydney, South Windsor, Oran Park, Berowra and now Prestons.
New stations across south-western Sydney are also planned to service the communities of Raby, Prairiewood, Doonside, Glenmore Park, the Aerotropolis and Bargo.
30 October 2024
GOVT SCRAPS OUTDATED VENUE RULES
THE NSW Government is scrapping restrictive “no entertainment” clauses to revive live music and nightlife in NSW. Outdated rules, such as limiting music genres, banning bands, or prohibiting strobe lights, have stifled venues and artists. The reforms will ease restrictions, giving venues control over entertainment and removing barriers like costly council approvals. This is part of broader Vibrancy Reforms aimed at supporting live performances, extending trading hours, and reducing red tape for licensed venues.
30 October 2024
BURNOUT RATES A WORRY IN THIS SECTOR
PALLIATIVE Care Australia’s national workforce survey reveals rising burnout, with 44% of palliative care and 41% of aged care workers experiencing it frequently. Only 47% are satisfied with their mental health, and 46% with their physical health. However, 85% are keen on further training. CEO Camilla Rowland emphasizes the need for ongoing support to manage the emotional demands of end-of-life care. More insights will be released, with self-care resources available on PCA’s website.
30 October 2024
DEMENTIA A LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH
NEW ABS data reveals dementia is poised to become Australia’s leading cause of death, accounting for 9.1% of deaths in 2023, just behind ischaemic heart disease. Dementia remains the top cause of death for women and is now the leading cause in NSW, SA, and the ACT. With 421,000 Australians living with dementia, numbers are expected to double by 2054. Dementia Australia urges public health efforts to prevent cases and improve support for those affected.
30 October 2024
SCHEME ALLOWS FOR EASIER MEDIATION
A NEW Lawyer Mediator Accreditation Scheme (LMA Scheme) will help people resolve disputes outside of court by allowing them to select legally qualified mediators. Law Society of NSW President Brett McGrath emphasised that lawyer mediators offer unique analytical skills and subject matter expertise. The scheme sets rigorous training standards and requires ongoing professional development. It aims to provide a dignified, cost-effective alternative to court litigation, ensuring mediators adhere to strict ethical obligations.
30 October 2024
SPENDING MORE ON CHRISTMAS CHEER
THE opening of suburban pop-up Christmas stores for 2024 is reviving the tradition of holiday decorating. Despite rising living costs, Christmas Warehouse's Retail Manager, Naomi Ramirez, anticipates families will spend a bit more on festive cheer. With stable prices amid inflation, the stores offer a wide selection of Christmas trees and decorations. Ramirez predicts trends like Grinch themes and pink decor will be popular this year. Families are encouraged to visit early for the best selection.
30 October 2024
BLUE MOUNTAINS WOMAN WINS BIG
A BLUE Mountains woman has declared she’s ready to weather any storm after discovering she bagged $200,000 in a recent Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw.
The resident scored the 1st Prize in Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1689, drawn on October 18, 2024 and pocketed $200,000. The winning woman shared she had been bracing for a storm when the unexpected winning call swept in, instantly brightening her day.
“Oh my god. Oh my god. That’s beautiful! That’s wonderful!” she cheered.
“I can help my family! We can have a better Christmas this year. Oh, I’m going to cry. You know, things are tough at the moment and a lot of people in my family could do with some help.
“Thank you very much! This is so thrilling. We’ve been expecting a big storm, so I’ve been preparing for that. I’m going to have a lovely day now, storm or no storm!
“Now my mind is wandering. I’m still thinking about Christmas. I can get the family extra presents, and we can enjoy a lovely lunch with all the nice sweets.
“I think I will buy them some Lucky Lotteries tickets and spread the luck. Thank you so much. This has made my day.”
Her winning entry of six random numbers was purchased from Katoomba Newsagency, Shop 1 101, Katoomba Street, Katoomba.
Katoomba Newsagency owner Simar Singh said he and the team were overjoyed to sell a 1st Prize winning entry.
“It’s incredible news. We’re absolutely delighted to be a part of someone’s win!” he said.
