POLITICS
Recognising the next generation of sporting champions
with Julian Leeser MP Federal Member for Berowra
Having a talented young athlete in the family is a privilege, but sporting costs, especially in higher level competitions, it can put a strain on the family budget. The Local Sporting Champions program provides grants of up to $ 750 for
Julian and Ellen Roberts with Sporting Champions.
young people competing at national or international events. It recognises talent and eases costs for families.
I recently hosted ceremonies to celebrate recipients of both the Local Sporting Champions and Local Para Champions programs, joined by Paralympian Ellie Cole and Olympian Ellen Roberts, both Berowra locals.
First, our para champions. In swimming, Abbey Gibbons, Elodie Sebire and Michael Williams have competed at national championships. In athletics, Cooper Robb-Jackson earned selection for the 2025 Australian Open and Under 20 Athletics Championships.
In wheelchair sport, Evander Conroy and Hamish Muir represented our community. And Zara Perry wore the green and gold at the Goalball Clubs World Cup in Finland and Malmö Lady Intercup in Sweden.
Alongside them, our sporting champions are shining. Athletics: Issac Portelli, Mathias Hutchens, Sophia Cottrell, Aniela Knight, Zachary Leung, Cameron Leung, Jack Proudford, Ivy Yang, Amy Campbell, Thomas Scodellaro, Alexander Braendle, Justin Billingsley and Blake Billingsley.
Swimming: Emma Cherry, Lily Sumner and Alannah Sumner. Hockey: Georgie Davidson. Rowing: Curtis Pepper. Team sports: Eva Zhang and Zak Morson( water polo); Ryan Chou Kobi McPherson,
Julian and Ellie Cole with Para Champions.
Christian Morrison, Kai Ueki and Kimi Soong( basketball). Logan Bubb and Ava Jones represented Australia at the Asia Pacific Youth Touch Football Cup.
Talent opens the door; discipline and courage do the rest. Our community stands behind these young people, and we’ ll keep backing their ambitions on and off the field.
HomeCo. Carlingford Court commended for emergency response
Staff, security, and partners of HomeCo. Carlingford Court have been praised for their swift and compassionate response during a major local emergency on 25 June 2025.
Monica Tudehope MP presented awards to recognise the outstanding contributions of those involved. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the centre’ s fund managers HMC Capital, senior leaders from managing agent Knight Frank Australia, security partner Glad Group, and members of the local community.
The emergency began when a crane at the neighbouring Meriton development site broke from its mounting. Strong winds increased the risk of collapse, prompting the closure of Pennant Hills Road, local evacuations, and widespread safety concerns. At 4:11 pm, Eastwood Police ordered a full evacuation of HomeCo. Carlingford Court to safeguard customers, retailers, and contractors.
By early evening, at the request of the Local Area Police Commander, the centre was reopened as a temporary shelter for residents unable to return home. Staff worked closely with the SES and local authorities to provide clear communication, comfort, and support. Several retailers also returned to assist, generously offering free food and drinks to those waiting for updates.
Thanks to these coordinated efforts, more than 70 families were provided with temporary accommodation, and all displaced residents were safely housed by
3:30 am the following morning. Award Recipients Those recognised for their efforts included:
• Craig Tache, Centre Manager – for leadership and coordination
• Ronza Toma, Marketing Manager – for leading communications and community support
• Tonoy Ghosh, Facilities Manager – for ensuring the centre remained safe and operational
• Marina Grima, Guest Services Team – for providing comfort and care to affected residents
• Trent Kebblewhite, Glad Group Security Supervisor, along with team members Mansoor Ramzan, Bhupinder Singh, and Raja Tahir – for maintaining order and safety throughout the event.
Marketing Manager Ronza Toma said:“ The teamwork between local emergency services, government representatives, and our centre really showed what it means to be part of the community – that we stand together in a crisis. The kindness of our retailers, offering food and refreshments, also made a real difference to families on a difficult night.”
Centre Manager Craig Tache added:“ On behalf of the co-owners of HomeCo. Carlingford Court, JY Group and fund manager HMC Capital, and the managing agent Knight Frank, we thank everyone who played a part. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and I’ m honoured to work alongside such a dedicated team.”
HomeCo. Carlingford Court and its partners have extended their appreciation to all emergency services, government representatives, and local retailers who supported the community during this critical time.
20 ISSUE 124 // OCTOBER 2025 theindependentmagazine. com. au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT