... FROM THE EDITOR ’ S DESK ... Your thoughts ? maryann @ hdinews . com . au
Another month , another flood emergency .
The greater western Sydney , particularly semi-rural Blacktown areas , the Hills and Hawkesbury-Nepean are “ flood exhausted ” with some residents tackling their fourth clean-up within 18 months .
Whether you believe its climate change , government bureaucracy , political inaction , developer greed or fate , there ’ s no denying we have serious issues to work out for dealing with natural disasters which continue to decimate our lowlands , economy and infrastructure .
Let ’ s hope community voices are heard by our community leaders and effective flood mitigation ( dare we say prevention ?) planning comes to the fore , instead of us just throwing millions at cleaning up time and again .
We can ’ t keep doing the same thing over and over thinking we ’ ll get a different solution . Burying our heads in the wet sand won ’ t make it go away and our marvellous , dedicated emergency service volunteers are beyond tired .
What an exciting and remarkable life Marc DePaoli is having . The 21-year-old is a natural behind the microphone at sporting grounds , calling events as he sees them and all the action on the field like a true professional twice his age .
Our reporter Greg Martin interviews Marc on P6-7 as one of our Finest locals for this month . Talented in multimedia services and journalism , Marc is an inspiration to other young people on how to live your best life by pursuing your dreams .
We hope you enjoy reading about his podcast exploits , live calls and work with the mighty Blacktown District Soccer Federation Association ( BDSFA ).
Again in the sports arena , Katie Lodge is making impressive moves and calling the shots in her promising boxing career .
The unbeaten in seven outings amateur from Marsden Park makes her maiden pro appearance in spectacular style by toeing the line against Fijian , Visilia Lagilagi , for the World Boxing Foundation International Super Welterweight title at West HQ ( ex-Rooty Hills RSL ) on September 10 . Find out what motivates her in our story on P9 . We ’ re in the midst of Missing Persons Week ( 31 July - 6 August ). Please give a thought to the families who are awaiting news of a loved one .
Our story on P11 lists some local faces whom you may have seen about town recently , or have information that may help police crack the case of their whereabouts .
If you have any information , please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 .
Good Nutrition is essential for your wellbeing Call our friendly team at Blacktown Meals on Wheels to see how we can support you .
BCI
BLACKTOWN CITY
INDEPENDENT
Issue 17 | August 2022 Phone 4588 5055 | e : info @ hdinews . com . au theindependentmagazine . com . au
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We pay our respects to ancestors and Elders , past and present . The Independent is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples ’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land , waters and seas and their rich contribution to society .
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Nutritious meals suitable for healthy ageing No minimum orders or lock in contracts Local and seasonal menus Peace-of-mind for family members knowing a friendly Volunteer checks in on their loved ones
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Nutritional needs of clients are considered prior to commencement of meal service Speak to your Home Care Package Provider about receiving Meals on Wheels If you are transitioning from the Commonwealth Home Support Package to a Home Care Package you can request continuation of meals
Call 02 9622 6183 or email us at : info @ blacktownmow . com . au
BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 17 // AUGUST 2022 3