News Headlines
Help for households paying energy bills: Up to $1,600 subsidies
HOUSEHOLDS having trouble paying their energy bills will be able to access up to $1,600 a year in help after …
Parramatta stays in safe Labor hands despite swing
BY DI BARTOK WHILE the Labor vote was slightly down in Parramatta, out-of-towner Andrew Charlton managed to win the seat …
FC Barcalona to hold fan party and open training session: Free entry for fans
DETERMINED to leave a legacy for football and their fans on their first visit to Australia, FC Barcelona will stage …
After nine years, Govt approves Council’s plan for Parramatta CBD expansion
THE NSW state government has given the City of Parramatta Council’s plan to expand boundaries and building height limits to …
Liberal Democratic Party – Liza Tazewell
Proud daughter of immigrant parents LIZA Tazewell (nee Pranjic/Suroprajitno) grew up in Guildford, the proud daughter of immigrant parents. “I …
Liberal Party – Maria Kovacic
Understanding community aspirations MARIA has run a successful mortgage and finance business for 16 years, while she and her husband …
The Greens – Phil Bradley
The only Green candidate PARRAMATTA Council’s only Greens councillor Phil Bradley is making climate change his main issue, considering the …
Australian Labor Party -Andrew Charlton
Strong plans for the future AS an economist, business owner and former economic advisor to Kevin Rudd Andrew believes he …
Independent – Steve Christou
Former Mayor gets the community FORMER mayor of Cumberland Council, Steve believes that only a local can truly understand and …
United Australia Party – Julian Fayad
“Not impacted by tyranny” JULIAN has lived in Guildford and Granville all his life, his parents Lebanese-born. He was raised …
From virtual to reality: River City Voices thrilled to be back on stage
RIVER City Voices is thrilled to be back on stage on May 22 with a luscious choral and orchestral program. …
Superclub FC Barcelona comes to Parramatta: Future superstars unleashed
GET ready Parramatta! Socceroos legend Brett Emerton says La Liga super-club FC Barcelona will unleash “future football superstars” when they take on …
Lights on for late-night culture: Funding for local experiences
PARRAMATTA residents and visitors are set for spectacular nights out, as eight Western Sydney arts and culture organisations keep their …
EXCLUSIVE: Geoff Lee on what the Federal Govt should do for Parramatta
The Federal seat of Parramatta is up for Grabs, State Member Dr Geoff Lee share his views on the Federal …
Parramatta’s signature building: PHIVE, the centre piece of transformation
SYDNEY has the Opera House, Paris has the Eiffel Tower, New York has the Empire State Building, and soon Parramatta …
Virgin Voyages heads Down Under with adults-only cruise format
DALLAS SHERRINGHAM VIRGIN Voyages will bring its successful “adults only” cruise format to Australia in 2023. The new cruise line …
Entries are now open for WSABE 2022
THE 2022 Western Sydney Awards for Business Excellence Showcase Launch officially marked the commencement of the 2022 WSABE Campaign, with …
Flexible working hours are still a farce for many Aussie dads
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM IF you are one of those dads who is stuck at work every day for hours on …
FILM REVIEW: THE LOST CITY REVIEW – 4 STARS
ADVENTURE returns to the big screen in The Lost City; a hilariously enjoyable, rom-com adventure hybrid full of snarky laughs …
FILM REVIEW: MORBIUS -2 STARS
MUDDLED, with flashes of brilliance, but an overall sense of ‘why?’, Morbius is a film that isn’t so much bad …
Nearing the end of the cycle: Record levels of office tenancy
PARRAMATTA received record levels of office tenant activity in 2021, softening the increase in vacancies as large levels of new …
Former Eels star builds self-esteem: Forging a better future for kids
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM WHEN Parramatta star David Gower was balancing his NRL career with life as a father of three, …
Council moves forward with improved parking plan for CBD
THE City of Parramatta is moving forward with an innovative plan to revamp carparking in the Parramatta CBD to better …
Cat among the pigeons: Cumberland’s former mayor enters the fray
STEVE Christou, the colourful former mayor of Cumberland, has entered the fray in the battle for Parramatta in the upcoming …
Labor’s choice of candidate for Parramatta an elusive force
By DI BARTOK WHILE the Labor local rank and file members are still fuming over Anthony Albanese’s choice of candidate …
Liberal choice is “top notch”: Former Mayor backs Maria
By DI BARTOK FORMER Liberal Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer thinks the Liberals have a real chance of winning Parramatta in …
Top five trends for 2022: Coffee drinkers are going natural
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM COFFEE drinkers are universally ‘going natural’ in 2022 but also re-embracing quality instant coffee according to a …
Parramatta Light Rail track nears completion as construction of stops starts
WORK will start to build the first of 16 light rail stops and track installation will reach 100 per cent …
Battle for Parramatta begins: Albo’s choice branded the privileged white man option
By DI BARTOK RANK and file ALP members are hoping that a decision to “parachute” an Eastern Suburbs high profile …
Parramatta’s CBD reignites: Epic outdoor autumn event series
OUTDOOR spaces across the Parramatta CBD will be transformed into buzzing entertainment venues as part of the City of Parramatta’s …
MINDSET: Inaction and avoidance are the silent killers – cost of doing nothing
MARCUS WHEAN IF best, nothing changes, at worst, sometimes senseless tragedy is the consequence of not taking action. WHEN I …
Accommodation support for flood victims plus 16 weeks rental support
A NEW $285M Temporary Housing Support Package will provide accommodation support to flood victims who have lost their homes to …
Welcome to MyTime: Where the sun’s always shining
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM THERE is a special place up in the Dundas Valley called the Allowah Children’s Hospital where the …
BDO launches in GWS: New Parramatta office home to 20 partners
BDO in Australia has expanded its presence in Greater Western Sydney (GWS) with the establishment of a new office at …
Small Business Month: Light rail initiatives for small business
SMALL businesses along the Parramatta Light Rail will receive an additional boost of support with free giveaways to attract local …
Flood warning: Fraudsers are targeting flood victims
THE NSW Government has issued a warning to flood victims and residents across the state to be wary of flood …
International Women’s Day: local women achievers recognised
FIST Nations leaders, a business owner, a social change entrepreneur and a scientist are some of the local women featured …
It takes a village to raise a child: Dealing with digital poverty
By TARA MCGUIGAN “PLEASE help me!”, Ruqia pleaded, having told me her three sons, all of them in high school, …
Quest for adventure: Cruise stunning Kimberley Coast
By JOHN NEWTON AS an increasing number of upmarket small ships ply the stunning Kimberley coast, one of the first …
Rosehill Bowling Club issues invitation to existing and new bowlers
FIVE years ago, Rosehill and Rydalmere Central amalgamated to form Rosehill Bowling Club, owned and operated by the Australian Turf …
FLOODS: Federal and state flood recovery assistance activated for Parramatta LGA
THE Commonwealth Government has activated the Disaster Recovery Payment and the Disaster Recovery Allowance to support more communities including in …
Migrant centre celebrates 25 years: Resettling role a vital service
By DI BARTOK IN its 25-year history, the Community Migrant Resource Centre has helped more than 600,000 refugees and migrants …
Relationships being harmed: Hearing loss taking a toll
HEARING loss is taking a toll on relationships in the community according to a leading Parramatta audiology specialist. Naa Armah …
Tribute to our heritage: Parramatta Square’s unique collection
A SPECIALLY commissioned art collection has been created for Walker Corporation’s 6 & 8 Parramatta Square lobbies, reflecting on the …
Four-time Olympian’s test: Melissa Wu faces SAS challenge
PARRAMATTA’S four-time Olympian Melissa Wu has well and truly dived in the deep end as a contestant on the blockbuster …
Project by Holdmark Group: New 5-star hotel for Parramatta
Parramatta will boast a luxury five-star intercontinental hotel by 2025 if a plan by Holdmark Property Group is approved. The …
For eligible families: $250 parents NSW vouchers go live today
ABOUT one million families can now enjoy $250 worth of vouchers, thanks to the NSW Government’s Parents NSW program going …
Boost for 2022 NRL season: Paulo and Gutho Eels skippers
JUNIOR Paulo and Clint Gutherson will be joint captains of Parramatta Eels in the club’s strengthened bid for the 2022 …
It’s mission control: Intelligent driving switched on
INTELLIGENT technology has helped slash the number of accidents, shorten travel times and improve efficiency along the M4 from Penrith …
Local property market reveals surprises: Parramatta a top rental region
SEVERAL suburbs in the Parramatta region have been rated in the top rental opportunities for families as in Greater Sydney. …
Too hot? Too far? Too dear? Dispelling myths of Northern Territory
DALLAS SHERRINGHAM IF you have dreamt of visiting the Northern Territory but are worried about making the journey, there are …
Culture celebrates: Colours of Lunar New Year light up Parramatta
THE City of Parramatta will be ringing in the Year of the Tiger with a colourful display of lanterns and …
COVID business support package announced: Up to $5,000 PW
BUSINESSES, workers and the performing arts across NSW are all set to benefit from a major financial support package of …
You’re invited: Have your say on a place name in Parramatta LGA
THE Geographical Names Board is seeking community feedback on a proposal by Transport for NSW (TfNSW) to name a light …
Australia Day Awards: Parramatta honors local citizens
LOCAL community organisations and individuals who have gone above and beyond to support the community have been honored at the …
COVID settings remain: Govt extends restrictions for a month
THE NSW Government will extend current restrictions for another month as the State continues to take a measured response to …
Parramatta Female Factory future secure with $54M grant
THE State Govt will spend almost $54m to secure the future of the Parramatta Female Factory and to develop an …
Community first: Lisa Lake is the new Cumberland Mayor
DI BARTOK LISA Lake, elected Mayor of Cumberland last night, looks forward to “taking the community” with her during her …
Labor wave: Donna Davis the new Lord Mayor of Parramatta
DI BARTOK LABOR councillor Donna Davis was elected unopposed as Lord Mayor of Parramatta on January 10. Sameer Pandey, another …
COVID vaccinations for children aged 5-11 commence in Western Sydney
SIX-year-old Beatrix was one of the first children to be vaccinated at The Granville Centre Vaccination Clinic today with COVID-19 …
100 million Rapid Anitgen Tests for essential workers, vulnerable
THE first batch of 100 million Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) will be distributed to NSW essential public workers and vulnerable …
Local innovation: Zombie app to build resilience, combat youth anxiety
LAWRENCE MACHADO CHILDREN facing anxiety and stress issues especially due to the long Covid-19 lockdowns in NSW can make the …
Trends revealed by Expedia: Travelers going the GOAT in 2022
TRAVEL EDITOR | DALLS SHERINGHAM TRAVELERS will have the GOAT mindset in 2022 according to industry leaders Expedia. No, they …
Women’s soccer champs may train at Parramatta
SOCCER enthusiast Steven Issa kicked a goal for Parramatta as Lord Mayor, calling on council to put forward the City …
Work starts on new indoor sports centre at Camellia
WORK is officially underway on the 5,000-metre square Billbergia Indoor Sports Centre, located in the Western Sydney suburb of Camellia, …
Summer in Parramatta: The power of the pool beckons
SKYE Suites Parramatta general manger, Quercy Jouannes was the first to experience the power of the pool as summer kicks …
All grown up: 160 years of Parramatta
DI BARTOK IN its 160 years as a local government area, Parramatta certainly has grown up – all the way …
As the market cools, the West remains HOT
TRENDS | DALLS SHERRINGHAM SYDNEY’S booming property market is showing signs of cooling after one of the most historic years …
2020 season: Experience NRL in the tropical Top End
THE Parramatta Eels will take on the North Queensland Cowboys at Darwin’s TIO Stadium on April 30, 2022, with tickets …
Let the fun begin: It’s looking a lot like Christmas
IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the City of Parramatta with an assortment of fun Yuletide activities for people of all …
Election update: Labor and Independents big winners on new councils
LOCAL GOVERNMENT | DI BARTOK PARRAMATTA Council will certainly be a different make-up after Saturday’s local government election saw a …
Foxes stay cool: new sprinklers for Parramatta’s flying foxes
WHILE Sydneysiders flock to beaches and swimming pools to escape the heat this summer, Parramatta’s grey-headed flying-fox colony can stay …
First time: CommBank Stadium to host NRL All Stars
RUGBY League’s big matches are heading back to NSW with the NRL All Stars match set to take place in …
Property listings jump: Market cools but west is still HOT
DALLS SHERRINGHAM SYDNEY’S booming property market is showing signs of cooling after one of the most historic years of property …
Nine Mayors on: Parramatta’s still growing after 160 years
OUR CITY | DI BARTOK NINE lord mayors, past and present, braved the cold of windswept Parramatta Square to commemorate …
They’re back: Parramatta Farmers Markets return to Centenary Square
PARRAMATTA’S famous Farmers Markets at Centenary Square are back with a mix of new stallholders and regular favourites bringing some …
Coffs Coast has struck gold as NSW’s first and only certified ECO Destination
DALLAS SHERRINGHAM IF green is the new black then the Coffs Coast has struck gold becoming NSW’s first and only …
I’ve found my purpose: Eels star Steve Dresler turns personal tragedy into inspiration
PASSION | STAFF REPORTERS JUST a few years ago, Steve Dresler was one of the rising stars of the NRL, …
It’s time: Labor women ready for action on Cumberland Council
POLITICS | DI BARTOK EIGHT Labor women tuned into the community are ready to serve across the wards of Cumberland …
After becoming a hit in 2021 the Stadium Drive-In is set to return in 2022
STAFF REPORTERS AFTER two sell-out seasons, the CommBank Stadium Drive-In is back by popular demand with a host of blockbuster …
AmCham to deliver the first GWS Summit at Parramatta in 2022
BUSINESS | STAFF REPORTERS IN a fresh initiative to assist business growth in Western Sydney, the American Chamber of Commerce …
Westmead COVID Vaccine: Local researchers working on a world-first booster
HEALTH | JADE HOBMAN MEDICAL researchers in Western Sydney are pioneering a new vaccine that would guard against all existing …
Five-day festival of intimate & large performances: Parramatta wins Sound West event
PARRAMATTA has won the bid to host the SOUND WEST Technology & Music Festival, Australia’s first major music, tech and networking …
Parramatta Lanes returns with a new menu of beats, eats and art
THE City of Parramatta is welcoming back music and food lovers to the CBD with the return of its popular …
After 18 years, Parramatta MP Julie Owens announces resignation
POLITICS | DI BARTOK JULIE Owens, long-serving Federal Labor MP for Parramatta, has announced that she is resigning from Parliament. …
The super canvas indigenous art project for Parramatta Square
LANG Walker AO’s love of indigenous art has taken pride of place in the lobby of the freshly minted 6 …
Lang Walker’s $20M donation to Powerhouse Parramatta sets a new record
THE NSW Government has announced a combined $30M dollar investment in Powerhouse Parramatta – one of the largest donations ever …
New CommBank Stadium signage lights up the skyline as Parramatta welcomes the Matildas
VENUES | STAFF REPORTERS CITY of Parramatta residents will notice something different as they travel down the busy thoroughfare of …
Park makeovers reach new milestones during lockdown
CITY of Parramatta Council’s $5M revamp of green spaces in Telopea has reached a new milestone. The newly refurbished Acacia …
Parramatta Mission announces winning design for The Gathering Place in CBD
PARRAMATTA Mission, in conjunction with City of Parramatta Council, has successfully completed an architectural design excellence competition for its central …
Welcome back! Eat St reopens as major events planned
THE City of Parramatta is gearing up for a Summer of Celebration as the new-look Eat Street comes alive, cafes, …
First river class ferry in service on Parramatta River
TRANSPORT | DALLAS SHERRINGHAM THE first of the controversial new ‘ugly duckling’ River Class ferries has entered service in wet …
Fussy eater expert reveals tactics for influencing kids at meal time
PARENTING | JADE HOBMAN “MY kids can never find their shoes, but they find a tiny piece of onion in …
Why the new State leadership is a boon for Western Sydney
POLITICS | DI BARTOK THE elevation of Dominic Perrottett to Premier of NSW with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres as deputy …
Govt announces a project to keep cats at home
A NEW initiative to help curb the toll on native wildlife caused by domestic cats across Parramatta has been announced …
NSW Govt extends JobSaver payments in line with vaccination rates
The NSW Government will go it alone to fund an extension of the JobSaver program to help NSW businesses re-open …
Steven Issa elected Parramatta Lord Mayor for initial short tenure
LOCAL POLITICS | DI BARTOK LIBERAL councillor Steven Issa has been elected Lord Mayor of Parramatta, despite the looming local …
Parramatta Leagues incoming CEO interview with Parramatta Times editor
PARRAMATTA Leagues Club Interim CEO Chris Dimou has won the coveted role of permanent CEO after a rigorous search by …
North Parramatta units still a popular choice among investors
PROPERTY | DALLAS SHERRINGHAM NORTH Parramatta units are still a popular choice amongst real estate investors in 2021 according to …
Parramatta Lord Mayor joins campaign to increase vaccination
MAYORS and council workers are united in one voice to urge the state’s local government workforce to get vaccinated against …
Bankwest transfers stadium naming rights: Bankwest to become CommBank Stadium
VENUES | STAFF REPORTERS WE’VE got used to seeing the Bankwest Stadium sign on O’Connell Street in Parramatta, but the …
Eels bow out: Derby clash was one for the ages
PARRAMATTA and Penrith produced a typical local derby clash with the Panthers eliminating the Eels 8 to 6 on Saturday …
Parramatta Council set to move into new headquarters
CITY of Parramatta Council will soon have a new administrative headquarters following the recent purchase of an office building in …
New mother and baby mental health unit at Westmead Hospital
PREGNANT women and new mothers experiencing mental illness will soon have access to specialist care alongside their babies at the …
Let’s get the party started: Bankwest to host food, wine festival
EVENTS | STAFF REPORTERS A FOOD and wine festival in the Bankwest Stadium precinct is being planned to showcase the …
Life in Afghanistan: a very local perspective
AFGHANISTAN CRISIS | PRISCELLA MABOR THE Minister for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke MP announced the formation of an …
$670M office tower above Westfield Parramatta
THE concept plan for a 47-storey office tower above Westfield Parramatta, which will add thousands of square metres of new …
New coalition will drive bid to make Parramatta CBD a top legal hub
TOP law firms, universities and Legal business groups have joined City of Parramatta Council’s bold bid to transform the Parramatta …
Let’s do this: Campaign launched to boost vaccination
THE NSW Government has launched the next phase of its statewide COVID-19 advertising campaign aimed at encouraging people across NSW …
Parramatta Leagues Club confirms its new CEO
PARRAMATTA Leagues Club Interim CEO Chris Dimou has won the coveted role of permanent CEO after a rigorous search by …
Green ban on Willow Grove to be lifted
NSW Minister for the Arts Don Harwin has announced that the green ban imposed by the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining …
FLY ME TO THE AIRPORT: Drone landing pad for CBD hotel
PARRAMATTA may soon have a new hotel with a revolutionary drone landing pad on the top floor. Pheonix Builders is …
Rosemary’s Way film aims to curb domestic violence
By ELIZABETH FRIAS AUSTRALIA’S Local Hero of the Year, Rosemary Kariuki has urged men and women to “always seek peace …
Parramatta CBD parking revamped as CBD transforms
CITY of Parramatta Council is inviting the community to have their say on draft plans to improve parking availability and …
National Science Week: Dr Karl leads free interactive talk
AUSTRALIA’Ss favourite science guru Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM will kick off National Science Week in Parramatta with a free interactive …
Fee-free rapid response courses during COVID
A SUITE of 10 fee-free TAFE NSW courses are now available for NSW residents to build their skills during the …
Jarryd Hayne instructs agent to put his Parramatta apartment on the market
Hayne’s Parramatta apartment for sale PARRAMATTA’S fallen NRL idol Jarryd Hayne may be in jail, but it hasn’t stopped him …
HEALTH TIPS: How to avoid the COVID kgs in lockdown
By ADAM SIMPSON AS you are all aware we are in the middle of another Covid-19 lockdown! We are all …
Council elections delayed due to COVID
DUE to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the NSW Government has postponed the local government election – from September 4 to …
Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer calls it a day
By DI BARTOK THE decision has been made – Bob Dwyer, Lord Mayor of Parramatta, will not contest the upcoming …
Riverside Theatres takes new direction as it farewells director, Robert Love
A NEW director will take the reins of Parramatta’s iconic Riverside Theatres from next month, with the long-serving Robert Love …
Police warning after woman scammed into handing over money
PARRAMATTA Police are warning residents to be wary of scams after a woman transferred money believing it was to be …
Upgrades for Parramatta courts: New remote witness rooms built
DOMESTIC violence complainants and other vulnerable witnesses will be empowered to give their best evidence in court thanks to new …
Tough restrictions announced: COVID statement from the Premier
GIVEN the growing number of infectious cases in the community and unlinked cases of community transmission, COVID-19 restrictions will be …
Community grant recipients announced: $385,000 to support local programs
THIRTY not-for-profit groups, social enterprises, creative organisations and artists have been announced as recipients of City of Parramatta Council’s 2021 …
Making CBD dining a family affair: where kids have the passion
By ELIZABETH FRIAS FROM day one renowned restaurateur Maurice Terzini anchored CicciaBella at Parramatta Square, he stayed true to his …
Funding for cybersecurity centre at Parramatta: WSU to build state-wide training capacity
THE Federal Government has announced $745,920 in funding for Western Sydney University to establish the Cybersecurity Aid Centre to train …
Mitchell Moses called up for Origin 3: Fittler praises halfback’s maturity
By STAFF REPORTERS PARRAMATTA halfback Mitchell Moses will make his NSW State of Origin debut versus Queensland on Wednesday, July …
Eight years in the making: Parramatta CBD Plan ratified just in time
WITH hardly any time to spare, Parramatta Council submitted its CBD planning proposal to the State Government before going into …
Major COVID-19 support package to support tens of thousands of NSW businesses
The NSW Government today announced a major new grants package and changes to the Dine & Discover program to help …
COVID message from NSW Premier: Lockdown extended until July 9
TO protect the people of NSW from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, current stay-at-home orders will be extended across all of …
Council endorses the plan to transform Parramatta CBD
CITY of Parramatta’s bold vision to grow the shape and size of its CBD is closer to becoming a reality …
Historic Parramatta images auctioned in Australia’s most significant photographic collection
THE Rose Stereograph Company Collection: one of Australia’s most significant photographic collections dating back to 1880, comprising more than 100,000 …
My Name is Not My Name: Shared vision of safety and security
By PRISCELLA MABOR THE Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) opened its doors 25 years ago in Parramatta. Since 1996, there …
Kyle plans a Hawaiian summer so he gets a jab at Westmead
By ELIZABETH FRIAS KIIS FM’s top rating presenter Kyle Sandilands has got bags packed for a Hawaiian summer holiday so …
$50M for planning Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2
THE NSW Government is committing $50M for planning and development works of Stage 2 of the Parramatta Light Rail in the upcoming 2021-22 …
Lord Mayor welcomes Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 funding
CITY of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer has welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment to invest $50M in Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 …
Mural inspired by native wildlife breathes new life into Rydalmere
A COLOURFUL new mural featuring native Australian plants and animals has transformed a 40-metre shopfront in Rydalmere, breathing new life …
THE WINTER VILLAGE DEBUTS: Parramatta’s Prince Alfred Park transformed
MEGA pop up The Winter Village will make its debut in Parramatta for its inaugural launch this June, making its …
Community to decide on popularly-elected Lord Mayor
WITHIN six months after the local government election on September 4, Parramatta voters will be asked if they want a …
WSABE 2021: Business awards showcase the best of the west
LIBERAL Senator for Western Sydney, Marise Payne, has reminded local businesses that entries for the Western Sydney Awards for Business …
Don’t go batty over bats: Health service urges caution in affected areas
By DI BARTOK WHILE Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is urging community members to avoid handling bats after the …
Bankwest Stadium evolving into Western Sydney’s busiest venue
BANKWEST STADIUM is best known for hosting the biggest sporting events in Western Sydney, but day-to-day the stadium has emerged …
WORKING WHILE YOU HOLIDAY: Welcome to the new trend called SLOW TRAVEL
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM THE COVID-19 pandemic’s shutdown of international borders and the move to working from home will have important …
Guinness World Record attempt for eating Mo:Mos
IN an attempt to set a new Guinness World Record, Everest Mo:Mo: Westmead is hosting an event at their restaurant …
Bankwest Stadium shows its true colours by supporting community campaigns
PARRAMATTA’S Bankwest Stadium has been a beacon of light and hope this week, glowing brightly in support of three major …
Parramatta’s Albion Hotel will soon call for last drinks
THE Albion Hotel, once known as Annie’s (down by the Gasworks Bridge) is due to be replaced with two 51 …
Councillors want community consultation before committing to an elected Lord Mayor
COUNCILLORS have put a kibosh on Parramatta having a popularly-elected lord mayor by 2024 after they voted to consult the …
Mass vaccination centre opens at Sydney Olympic Park
THE mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park has opened today with thousands of people booked in to receive the …
Roadshow of trades workshops: Parra students have what it takes
THE welding helmet may seem too big or tools too heavy for these Parramatta Marist High School students, as shown …
Women on council? It’s just too blokey. Minister meets women candidates
A GROUP of about 10 women met with Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer and Federal Minister for Women Marise Payne …
Retaining Mitchell Moses an Eels priority
MATURING halfback Mitchell Moses remains the top priority for the Parramatta Eels to retain as they look to maintain a …
Derby thriller at Bankwest: Wanderers keep their season alive, eye home run
THE Western Sydney Wanderers are alive and kicking in the A-League title race after stretching their unbeaten run in the …
Bush charity calls on Minister to act over volunteers caught in mice infestation
A STATE government minister has come under fire from a Parramatta based bush charity claiming “inaction” on widespread mice infestation …
May Day becomes fight for Parramatta heritage
THE May Day March came to Parramatta with force when an estimated 5000 unionists and supporters marched from Prince Alfred …
Bosses may disagree but taking a sickie is good for you
WHEN I was an ordinary staff member some years ago, I went to great lengths to carefully organize a good …
Fewer babies born in 2020 and Oliver tops the names list
AXEL and Hallie surged up the baby name popularity charts in 2020, although fewer babies were born overall in an …
Sell out opening for Bankwest Drive-In
IT was a sell-out opening night on a perfect autumn evening at the Disney+ Drive-In at Bankwest Stadium recently. The …
Behind the scenes the Salvos continue their work: Western Sydney Appeal launch
THE last 12 months has seen a dramatic way in which we interact within our community. Closed doors, mandatory social …
Minister leading drive to recruit more women to Parramatta Council
In the lead-up to the September 4 local government election, there is a concerted push to recruit more Liberal women …
It’s raw: How Salvation Army hope really happens
EVERY single day at the new Parramatta Salvation Army, Major Kylie Collinson is stunned by raw stories of hardship faced …
Property buyers swap Sydney harbor views for city river views
BUYERS who once longed for a property with harbor views are now turning their aspirations to Parramatta and its outstanding …
Parramatta sports groups encouraged to apply for grants
PARRAMATTA sporting organisations have received a major boost with the announcement of the Local Sport Grants Program by the NSW …
Historic May Day March comes to Parramatta
THE streets of Parramatta will be running red on Saturday May 1 when the historic May Day March is held …
Parramatta Escarpment Boardwalk completed delivering 20kms of river pathways
MILLIONS of pedestrians and cyclists can now enjoy more than 20km of continuous off-road paths along both sides of the …
Building starts on new Parramatta Pool as Wenty completes $88.6M upgrade
THERE are going to be some enjoyable summers coming up for residents of Parramatta and Cumberland council areas with work …
Trevor, 92, celebrates the reopening of his beloved Wenty Pool
RESIDENTS are welcoming the re-opening of the impressive Wentworthville Memorial Swimming Centre, none more than 92-year-old Trevor Simpson, who was …
Schon Condon shines a light on his years as Parramatta Chamber president
SCHON Condon finishes his three year term as president of Parramatta Chamber of Commerce happy with his work in promoting …
MY CRADLE CITY DREAM IN 2030: Parramatta the place to be
Local historian Gary John Carter, a little tongue in cheek, dreams about Parramatta’s future. DATELINE July 2030: Destination NSW has …
POLICE NEWS: Items fraudulently purchased with mobile phone account
ON Thursday March 18, a Harris Park resident saw two new Apple iPads had been charged to her mobile phone …
Revolution coming for Parra commuters: train every two minutes on metro west
By DALLAS SHERRINGHAM WHEN Sydney’s long-promised is completed in 2030, a train will leave Parramatta station every two minutes in …
Westmead’s new world-class hospital officially opened
MORE operating theatres, patient rooms and world-class services, including two new Emergency Departments, are all part of Westmead Hospital’s new 14-storey …
Parramatta Council and RSPCA to offer free pet vaccinations and microchipping
CITY of Parramatta Council, in partnership with RSPCA NSW, is offering free pet microchipping and vaccinations to Parramatta Local Government …
Shopping to bounce back in 2021: Resilient retailers reveal solutions
DALLAS SHERRINGHAM It’s no secret times have been the toughest on record for Parramatta’s bricks and mortar retail industry, but …
The app that is helping dads through fatherhood
A PROGRAM that helps new and expectant fathers through the physical, mental and emotional challenges of parenthood, launched last year, …
Urban renewal project Melrose Park North sets sales benchmarks
URBAN renewal project Melrose Park North has continued to set sales benchmarks for off-the-plan apartments in Sydney, with 103 selling …
Local specialist delivers critical trauma care
LOCAL emergency medicine specialist, Dr Chris Cheeseman, will be one of the first doctors in Australia to fly to patients …
Pickleball serves up a winner: Parramatta is in the middle of a pickleball boom
By LAWRENCE MACHADO PICKLEBALL anyone? The name is certainly a conversation starter – especially as the name came from a …
2021 International Women’s Day: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world
By PRISCELLA MABOR THE global UN Women’s theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2021 is “Women in Leadership This theme celebrates the tremendous efforts by women and …
COMMENT: Government must act on the Aged Care report
By JULIE OWENS LOOK around. More than half of all Australian women you see, and about a third of the …
POLICE NEWS: Woman charged with shop lifting
ABOUT 3pm on Friday, February 19, a 28-year-old Prospect woman entered a Paramatta department store where she has selected several …
Vasco’s Charcoal Chicken named champion takeaway
VASCO’S Charcoal Chicken from North Parramatta has been named Champion Fast Food/Takeaway Store at the Australian Small Business Champion Gala …
How COVID turned Bankwest into a Drive-In attraction
DRIVE-In movie theatres were a huge hit in the 1970s and they made a comeback in 2020 as a COVID-safe …
Brad Arthur prepares for 8th season: On talent alone, Eels should make the finals
EELS coach Brad Arthur is preparing for his eighth season in charge when the NRL 2021 season kicks off …
CITYSCAPES: Our resilient city is bouncing back
By Lord Mayor BOB DWYER AFTER the challenges of 2020, it is wonderful to see our resilient City and community …
Now it’s bad for your heart: Another shot for lovers of coffee
HAVE heart Professor, It’s enough to drive you to drink – now coffee is the big risk to our hearts …
CareFlight flies local specialist to deliver critical trauma care
LOCAL emergency medicine specialist, Dr Chris Cheeseman, will be one of the first doctors in Australia to fly to patients in need of emergency medical care …
FIVE KEY TRENDS FOR PROPERTY: Why 2021 is tipped to be great year
EVERY year is tipped to be a “great year” for property in Sydney, and that’s definitely been true in recent …
POLICE NEWS: Multiple drink driving incidences
ABOUT 3.00am on February 7, 2021, the driver of a Mitsubishi Lancer was stopped for a random breath test on the …
New images from Light Rail alignment revealed
A FIRST look at the Parramatta Light Rail alignment has been revealed as the project gains momentum, with track work …
Y NSW comes to the rescue: Westfield pop-up space offers opportunity
By Lawrence Machado WHILE the future of Parramatta PCYC is uncertain, the YMCA has teamed with Westfield Parramatta to provide …
COMMENT: Why Parramatta businesses face the JobKeeper cliff
By JULIE OWENS IF you live around Parramatta, you get to enjoy one of the most vibrant and diverse dining …
COVID-19 vaccine program begins on Monday at Westmead
MORE than 35,000 critical staff in NSW will be among the first in Australia to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when …
Parramatta records strong positive demand in office space
PARRAMATTA is continuing its rise with more new office space coming onto the market, according to the recent Property Council …
PCYC uncertain over new home: community leaders fear crime increase
By DI BARTOK COMMUNITY leaders, worried about escalating youth crime and suicides, wait with bated breath over news of a …
Approval for the 100-room health and wellbeing hotel at Westmead
WESTMEAD is gaining a new Travelodge Hotel which could prove to be the healthiest hotel in Australia. The $100M health …
Looking forward to seeing night-time grant enquiries
By BOB DWYER, Parramatta Lord Mayor WHAT a busy month January has been in Parramatta! While our Australia Day celebrations …
Early days of Parramatta pubs: Baker’s Arms and surrounds
PUBS have always been a big part of Parramatta, from its early days of development through to the thriving city it …
Westmead the training centre for next generation of doctors
WESTERN Sydney has been given a boost with 151 newly graduated doctors, needed more than ever as we fight COVID-19. …
The Girl from Mumbai who guides our migrants
FROM working in the Indian slums with legendary Mother Teresa to helping migrants in Western Sydney settle into their new …
Parramatta property experts called in to advise Central Coast Council over assets
TWO Parramatta property experts could prove saviours for the ailing Central Coast Council. The two gurus from Parramatta Council advisory …
Our Rosemary named Australian Local Hero
ROSEMARY Kariuki, the refugee from Kenya who has changed the lives of so many people in Western Sydney, is the …
Students in Parramatta to get hands-on STEM skills
HIGH school students in Parramatta LGA will be invited to get hands-on opportunities to develop skills in science, technology, engineering …
Formidable line-up of citizens recognised at Australia Day Local Awards
A FORMIDABLE line-up of worthy citizens and workers were recognised in this year’s Parramatta Council Australia Day Local Awards. The …
First tracks of Parramatta Light Rail laid along dining precinct
THE revitalisation of Parramatta’s ‘Eat Street’ is well underway with the first tracks laid for Parramatta Light Rail in the dining precinct. Minister …
Hoops Coffee House opens at Bankwest Stadium
PARRAMATTA’S home of sport and entertainment will feature early starts and alfresco dining with the opening of Hoops Coffee House …
REVEALED: The many tricks of investment scammers
TOO-GOOD-TO-BE-TRUE investment cold calls and buy and sell scammers preyed on migrants and indigenous consumers resulting in $13.7M being scammed …
More than one million turn to library’s online reading services
AN astonishing one million avid library users clicked online to use the Parramatta city’s library services forced to close its …
Parramatta aquatic and leisure centre gets final tick of approval
PARRAMATTA’S state-of-the-art aquatic and leisure centre is one step closer to construction after City of Parramatta Council received approval to …
Haven for rare birds in the middle of Toongabbie
A HAVEN for native birds to nest and forage for plant foods is underway in busy corridors at Old Toongabbie. …
After 11 years Louise bids Parramatta Chamber good-bye
LOUISE Zajac has spent the past 11 years mixing with the high-flyers of Parramatta business – now she is looking …
Catholic education turns 200 and it all started at Parramatta
THIS year is the bicentenary of Catholic education in Australia – and it all began in Parramatta, in a humble …
Boy from Dundas Valley to Lord Mayor: Bob’s heart has always been in the suburbs
LORD Mayor of Parramatta Bob Dwyer is proud of his City, with its dynamic development, and exciting projects such as …
Council adopts CBD tree policy: Path cleared for more shady trees
A COUNCIL resolution calling for an inventory of the existing number of cooling canopy trees within Parramatta CBD has been …
WSABE 2020: Stories of triumph, resilience and determination
The following is an edited extract by Senator the Hon Marise Payne, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for Women, Liberal …
SCAM ALERT: Authorities’ Christmas warning over COVID fraud
AUTHORITIES has lifted the lid on scams triggered by COVID-19 and warned against fake online shopping websites particularly this Christmas, …
Guy Sebastian and Human Nature headline online concert
AUSTRALIAN music legends Guy Sebastian and Human Nature will lead a star-studded line-up for The Sebastian Foundation’s spectacular free online concert, Carols from Parramatta. …
Iconic Ampol calls Parramatta home: Northmead site the first of many outlets
AUSSIE iconic service station Ampol is back, this time in partnership with supermarket giant Woolworths. Founded in post-Depression 1936 as …
Why the Metro West needs another stop!
BACK in April there was an outcry when the NSW Government released plans for the Metro West that revealed there …
Council rents prime space to Govt for $1, detractors slammed as disgusting politics
IN a move that will cost Parramatta Council an estimated $60,000 over six months, the NSW Government has been granted …
Future of cricket: Govt funds New Centre of excellence
CONSTRUCTION has started on the Cricket NSW Centre of Excellence at Wilson Park where the State’s superstars and aspiring youth …
PROFILE: Lorraine Wearne: Straight-shooter for the community
LORRAINE Wearne, Parramatta’s longest-serving councillor, celebrates 25 years fighting for the community. So, what drives this amazing woman? AFTER a …
Backyard cricketers are taking over – Council to police our sports grounds
HOWZAT! Organised recreational cricketers playing on Parramatta sports grounds have just been bowled over following complaints from district cricket clubs. …
Parramatta Mission pivots its traditional service
IT used to be the place for the homeless, rough sleepers, and the lonely to come together for two meals …
HEALTH REPORT: Health workers in caring workplace
DO you know your colleagues well? Can you talk about personal matters? A dedicated team at Westmead Hospital decided to …
LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE: Mode Media brings stories alive
CHRIS Hekeik elevates companies to the future in a stone cottage in Parramatta that harks back to our colonial past. …
Cooling trees a hot debate
Motion for a city tree report blocked by Lord Mayor COOLING trees became a hot debate among Parramatta councillors at …
POLICE NEWS: Planning urged as Summer Safe launched
NSW Police, together with Transport for NSW, is urging residents to plan and to expect a different holiday experience during …
Legends of Australia’s second oldest city revealed in documentary series
The legendary people and events that have shaped Parramatta’s unique – and sometimes surprising – history take center stage in …
Parramatta mum dreamt of $2M Lotto win
A PARRAMATTA mum has admitted she’d been dreaming about what she’d do if she ever won the lottery just days …
Locals shine in safety awards
WENTWORTHVILLE Leagues Club, Kellyville Soccer Club, and Action Insurance Brokers are the Western Sydney stars in the 2020 Safework NSW …
SuperFight event for Parramatta
THE NSW Government has continued its winning streak, securing another high-profile sporting event for Western Sydney. Headlining the inaugural Sydney …
Chamber back in business
PARRAMATTA Chamber was excited to be back doing what they do best and giving members a platform to connect with …
Business of people’s personal lives
In the 15 years, David Amaneddine has run a removalist business, it will be the year 2020 he will remember …
Former asylum rich in history
In the early part of the 19th century, one of the issues that caused consternation for colonial governors was the …
POWERHOUSE: We’ll block bulldozers
THE architects designing the $780M Powerhouse Parramatta has presented to Infrastructure NSW an improved design to include rooftop spaces which …
Live music to cut through Covid pain
LIVE music is set to ease the pandemic pain of Parramatta restaurants and pubs that have outdoor dining. From November …
POWERHOUSE: Design that kept heritage
WITH all the controversy surrounding the Powerhouse Museum in Parramatta, we revisit the only design on the shortlist that retained …
City leading to smarter suburbs
A New cutting-edge initiative by the City of Parramatta will change the way new Australian suburbs and cities are designed, …
COVID-19 traced from Parramatta
GET tested for COVID-19 is a key message for the Parramatta council area from NSW Health with Minister Brad Hazzard …
POLICE UPDATE: Warning about scams
Police would like to further remind the public that there are numerous scams currently in circulation and to exercise a …
Teenage rebel to respected councilor
From teenage rebel to a valued deputy Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Michelle Garrard feels well-equipped to help run a major …
BUDGET 2020: Opportunity missed
I WANT you to imagine for a moment that you’re the Treasurer. You’ve got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest to …
COMMENT: NBN – Annoyed or amused?
I DIDN’T know whether to be annoyed or amused when the Federal Government announced that the NBN was finished. Nice! …
NBN bureaucrats holding us back
BUSINESSES that underpin the first-rate city will not come to Parramatta without the NBN. Parramatta Chamber of Commerce president Schon …
CBD outdoor dining precinct to open
THE OUTDOOR dining precinct in Parramatta Square is set to open on October 21, offering an exciting range of dining …
Budget spend for Parramatta projects
PARRAMATTA and Cumberland Councils have scored more than $20M in the 2020-21 Federal Budget for infrastructure projects. The Investment in …
BUDGET 2020: Private sector revival?
TREASURER Josh Frydenberg has put the challenge to the private sector to pull the flailing economy up by its bootstraps. …
No bridge too far for Light Rail
Six new bridges will be built and another five bridges modified in the Greater Parramatta area, as part of the …
No more chances for Eels
THERE are no more chances for Parramatta and Souths when they clash in the NRL finals this weekend. The winner …
Eelectricity is sweeping Parramatta
IT’S finals time and footy fever are sweeping the Parramatta community. You can feel the ”eelectricity” as Parramatta start their …
Little India at Harris Park could be on its way
LITTLE India at Harris Park could be on its way soon with a meeting between the business community and Parramatta …
Support for cultural enterprises In recharge for city’s creatives
CITY of Parramatta Council has launched a new grants program to support cultural and creative enterprises as part of a …
Council endorses bold proposal to expand the Justice Precinct
CITY of Parramatta Council has unveiled an innovative proposal to expand the Justice Precinct in the Parramatta CBD, bringing more …
St George’s Terrace love-bombed as artists protest over heritage
A RARE splash of color lit up Parramatta when artists came to town to protest against the NSW Government’s plan …
Hub of the City on its way
THE $130M cultural and civic building that will dramatically change the look of Parramatta CBD is on its way with …
Reframing Heroism: The ultimate test of leadership
PRISCELLA MABOR WHEN the Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky was offered safe passage out of his country’s warzone in the first …