Month: November 2022

NSW State Teams for 2023 National Netball Championships named 

Netball NSW is excited to announce the athletes that have been selected in the 17U & 19U teams which will represent the State at the 2023 National Netball Championships in Darwin in April.  

First contested in 1985, the annual tournament provides emerging talent from across the country the opportunity to represent their respective State or Territory and compete for national honours.

The Nationals are an important step in Netball Australia’s pathway, with many Australian Diamonds having previously represented their State or Territory in the event.

Mardi Aplin – General Manager of Performance & Pathways at Netball NSW – said this is an exciting and talented group of athletes

“Congratulations to all selected athletes, we know you will represent NSW with Waratah pride,” she said. 

“Head Coach of the 17U side, Amber Cross, and the 19U team coach, Jen Wright, cannot wait to start the campaign this weekend when all players and staff will come together for the first State Team Camp.

“Because of so much talent trialling, the selection process was very hard but that is a great problem to have because it highlights the competition for places. 

“We wish everyone selected the best as they start preparation for the National Netball Championships and Go NSW!”

In 2023 NSW will be looking to go back-to-back having claimed the Gold Medal in both the 17U and 19U Nationals in Tasmania this year. 

2023 NSW 19U Team

  • Aimee Landrigan (Camden & District)
  • Amelia Kirgan (Bankstown City)
  • Ana Kailahi (Blacktown City) 
  • Bella Lieberman (Manly Warringah)
  • Eloise Egan (Manly Warringah)
  • Eugenie Little (Manly Warringah)
  • Frederika Schneideman (Randwick)
  • Grace Whyte (Tumut)
  • Mia Baggett (Bathurst) 
  • Monika ‘Otai (St George District)
  • Millicent Tonkin (Newcastle)
  • Samantha Bondietti (Manly Warringah)

2023 NSW 17U Team

  • Allegra Mcdonald (Randwick)
  • Ellie Hart (Campbelltown District)
  • Evie Economou (Sutherland Shire)
  • Hope White (Newcastle)
  • Isabella Degei (Baulkham Hills Shire)
  • Kelis Ogle (Liverpool City) 
  • Nevaeh Matenga (Liverpool City) 
  • Nicola Barge (Sutherland Shire)
  • Olivia Harris (Penrith District)
  • Sara Kent (St George District)
  • Skye Thompson (Sutherland Shire)
  • Yasmeen Janschek (Randwick)

SCHOOL DISRUPTION INQUIRY PUTS TARGET ON TEACHERS’ AND STUDENTS’ BACKS

The Greens say a Senate inquiry into school disruption, initiated by the Liberals and backed by Labor, risks being used as a platform to attack overworked teachers and First Nations, disabled and neurodiverse students.

Greens spokesperson on schools, Senator Penny Allman-Payne said:

“Labor and the Coalition today voted to set up an inquiry into school disruption. While disruption and lack of student engagement in Australian classrooms is a complex phenomenon worth exploring in its proper context, the inquiry’s terms of reference are deeply concerning.

“Instead of seeking to investigate the causes of disruption and student disengagement without prejudice, the terms of reference are loaded with assumptions and value judgements.

“I hope I’m wrong but I’m really worried that this inquiry will be used as a cudgel against overworked teachers, struggling parents and disadvantaged kids. I’m especially concerned that it’s going to provide a forum to target First Nations, disabled and neurodiverse students.

“Public school teachers, parents and carers have been telling us for years that their schools are understaffed and under-resourced and that this is worsening student outcomes and entrenching inequality.

“Perhaps the Senate could spend some more time inquiring into that rather than giving a soapbox to anti-public school culture warriors.”

BEHAVIOURAL CODES OF CONDUCT WILL MAKE PARLIAMENT A SAFER PLACE

Australian Greens Deputy Leader Senator Mehreen Faruqi has said that new behavioural codes of conduct developed by the Joint Select Committee on Parliamentary Standards, tabled today, will make parliament a safer place and set clear rules for behaviour in parliamentary workplaces.

Senator Faruqi is a member of the Joint Select Committee and participated actively in the inquiry.

Senator Faruqi said:

“These behavioural codes and standards will make parliament a safer place for everyone who works at and visits this place.

“I’m pleased that the report has acknowledged the intersections of discrimination that further marginalise First Nations people, people of colour, disabled people and LGBTQI+ communities, and the codes explicitly prohibit discrimination on these grounds. 

“I have first hand experience of the damage that racism and sexism does to a person who doesn’t belong to the ‘dominant norm’ of white men in suits. There will now be a clear and unambiguous recognition that this is unacceptable – and that perpetrators will face consequences for their actions.

“The evidence we heard from witnesses showed an overwhelming desire for strong and enforceable codes, not meaningless platitudes.

“I really want to thank the courageous staff – current and former – who have spoken out about the toxic culture of parliament and have paved the way for a safer, more respectful, inclusive and diverse parliament.

“The codes were agreed to by consensus. They are a strong expression of this parliament’s desire to do better. I look forward to their implementation.”

The report of the committee is available here. 

Dog lovers to head west with City of Newcastle unveiling plans for new fenced off-leash dog park

Maryland will become home to the city’s newest fenced off-leash dog park, with City of Newcastle unveiling a multi-stage masterplan featuring dedicated areas for both large and small canines.

The new facility will be located at Maryland Drive Reserve adjacent to the existing unfenced, leash-free area.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes with Councillors Elizabeth Adamczyk and Deahnna Richardson at the existing unfenced off-leash area at Maryland.

A concept design for the site, which is now on public exhibition for community feedback, incorporates two large, fenced areas that will provide separate spaces for different sized dogs to enjoy.

Shelters with tables, informal sandstone seating, dog bubblers and extensive landscaping including trees for shade, will provide added comfort for pets and their owners, while concrete pathways and a formalised car park with accessible parking will ensure the facility is suited to all dog-lovers.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the project will be delivered in three stages, with the first fenced area and amenities expected to be complete by mid-2023.

“With more than 63,000 dogs registered in our city, we know Novocastrians are passionate about their canine companions and want spaces where their four-legged friends can safely exercise and mix with other pets,” Cr Nelmes said.

“City of Newcastle is committed to providing a variety of off-leash options throughout Newcastle and has already delivered the city’s first fully fenced off-leash dog park at Acacia Avenue Reserve, as well as upgrades to the existing popular area in Islington Park.

“This new project at Maryland will provide a premier facility for dog lovers in our western suburbs, which is sure to be incredibly popular with pet owners who already make the most of the unfenced off-leash area within this reserve.”

The Maryland Dog Park forms part of the Dogs in Open Space Plan, which was adopted by City of Newcastle in 2019 to guide the provision, improvement and management of off-leash dog areas during the next 10 years.

Formalised off-leash dog areas enable people to take their dogs to a place where they can legally run free, exercise and socialise with other dogs. They also provide pet owners with a meeting place and an opportunity to connect with others in the community.

The Maryland Dog Park draft masterplan is on public exhibition until 5pm Friday 16 December, with further information and the ability for the community to have their say via City of Newcastle’s website.

NSW train agreement reached

Millions of Sydney and NSW rail commuters will now be able to catch a train without being unfairly hit by union disruption, following an agreement between the NSW Government and the Combined Rail Unions.
 
For too long school kids, people going to work and small businesses have had their lives and businesses turned upside down by industrial action by the rail unions.
 
Today we have put the people of Sydney first.
 
We have now agreed to a Fair Work Commission process which will result in a vote by the Combined Rail Unions and an ongoing arbitration process on a small number of outstanding items.
 
While these Fair Work Commission processes are underway, the Combined Rail Unions have agreed not to undertake any industrial action.

Getting life-saving tools to local sports clubs

Vaucluse sports clubs and organisations are encouraged to apply for new life-saving devices through the Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.

Liberal candidate for Vaucluse, Kellie Sloane, welcomed the Perrottet Government program providing $2 million over four years to local sporting organisations and councils, so they can get equipped with defibrillators to respond to life-threating emergencies.

“We’re told by medical experts that the first eight minutes after a cardiac arrest are critical to a person’s survival, so early access to CPR and a defibrillator is essential in case of such an emergency,” said Ms Sloane. “With the Perrottet Government covering the full cost of up to three devices, I’m calling on all local clubs to apply to this potentially life-saving program.”

“With ten clubs across this electorate already participating, from the Bondi Bowling Club to Maccabi Hakoah Club, I think many more should also apply.

“Double Bay Sailing Club was awarded a grant for a defibrillator, which has been placed on response boats, so that when the club holds competitions it is accessible if there is ever an incident on water. I think it’s great how the club is looking after the safety of its members.”

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said that since 2017 more than 2,000 devices have been installed at sports facilities across the State.

“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital
that a defibrillator is readily accessible,” Mr Henskens said.

“Through this funding, the NSW Liberals and National Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the field.”

The Local Sports Defibrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organisations able to apply for up to three devices.

Applications are open and close Friday, 10 February 2023. For more information on the Program, visit www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants.

Investing in training for dental technicians

The Perrottet Government is investing $774,000 in upgrading dentistry facilities and teaching equipment at TAFE NSW Randwick that will help train the next generation of dental technicians as part of a for students and staff.

Liberal candidates for Coogee and Vaucluse, Dr Kylie von Muenster and Kellie Sloane, welcomed this investment in the local TAFE and future health professionals.

“Dental and prosthetic technicians need to get a good handle on the tools of their future trade, and the Government’s investment in upgrading TAFE NSW Randwick gives our students an edge as they embark on their promising dental careers,” said Dr von Muenster.

“As someone who spent many years undertaking training to deliver allied health services, I know that my education really benefited from access to great equipment and facilities.”

“This funding for industry-leading equipment, such as new laboratory chairs, articulators, and micro-motors will support the delivery of in-demand training for dental technicians in Randwick, as students gain hands-on skills in denture making and the construction of mouthguards and orthodontic appliances.”

“The Perrottet Government has invested $3 million in TAFE NSW Randwick since 2019, to boost the quality of education for a variety of courses” said Ms Sloane. “The campus had recently received two Connected Learning Points to support virtual learning and new cameras, making our local TAFE the place to be for aspiring future cinematographers.”

“This funding clearly demonstrates the Perrottet Government’s commitment to giving this community great fit-for-purpose learning spaces they need to build their skills and get future jobs.”

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the NSW Government is leading the nation in supporting people to get the skills they need for the jobs they want, which is helping grow the economy, securing a brighter future for the people of NSW.

“TAFE NSW trains 44 per cent of government funded TAFE students in Australia. It is the nation’s largest and best training provider, and we have invested record funding in TAFE NSW to ensure it continues to deliver a pipeline of skilled and job-ready workers,” Mr Henskens said.

“Our record skills budget is delivering more fee-free training which is helping people find indemand jobs and contributing to NSW’s low unemployment rate.”

For more information about courses available at TAFE NSW Randwick, visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

QLD CLIMATE COSTS CAN’T BE IGNORED

The Climate Council report released today shows that the costs of climate change-driven weather events cannot be ignored. The Greens are once again calling for the government to stop approving new coal and gas projects, and stop the $42.7 billion of fossil fuel subsidies that are turbo charging climate destruction.

Greens Senator for Queensland Larissa Waters said:

“The Climate Council report released today shows that my home state of Queensland has suffered more economic damage from extreme weather and natural disasters than any other state or territory.

“The economic cost to Queensland from the floods in February and March alone was $7.7 billion, not to mention the emotional toll of seeing your home flooded again and again.

“Last week’s State of the Climate report found changes to weather and climate extremes are happening at an increased pace across Australia.

“We already knew this continued support for the coal and gas industry was leading us to environmental disaster, now we know it’s a wrecking ball for the economy as well.

“We’ve been disappointed that under the new Labor government, Australia has continued to open up new coal and gas mines, and is sticking to targets that will see the world go beyond a disastrous 2C of warming.

“There are 114 new coal and gas projects headed to the Environment Minister’s desk for approval – not a single one should be approved without considering the impact its emissions will have on the climate.

“Unless we stop opening up new coal and gas, Australia’s children will inherit a country that is wracked by devastating fires, floods, and heatwaves.

“The Greens bill to add a climate trigger to our federal environmental laws means that climate impacts of polluting projects would need to be considered, and importantly that the Minister would have to refuse approval for new large fossil fuel projects.”

THEIA ENERGY WANTS TO ACCELERATE THE CLIMATE CRISIS

Today Theia Energy announced it will resubmit its application to frack the Canning Basin.

Theia has changed its plans multiple times in an attempt to dodge Western Australia’s EPA laws, but is betting the McGowan government’s review on onshore fracking will favour companies over the environment.

Greens spokesperson for resources Yamatji-Noongar Woman Senator Dorinda Cox said:

“The McGowan government should care about its constituents equally. The ban on fracking should extend across all of WA not just the metropolitan regions and southwest.

“The government is allowing manufactured consent for fossil fuel projects. If they won’t invest and support regional communities they are effectively forcing Traditional Owners to agree to these projects.

“The International Energy Agency’s ‘World Energy Outlook 2022’ report doesn’t support the idea of gas as a transition fuel. 

“Black Mountain Energy’s exemption from the export of onshore gas shows the McGowan government is happy to sell out our environment and fuel the climate crisis.

“A report released today by The Climate Council showed Queensland is bearing the brunt of the climate crisis. We cannot allow Western Australia to suffer the same fate by opening up new fossil fuel projects.

“A recent poll showed 63% of Australians want to accelerate the shift to renewables. Rather than open up new polluting projects we need to invest in cleaner, greener renewable energy sources. 

“We can’t trust the WA Labor government to do the right thing. We must strengthen our Federal environmental protection laws to ban fracking across all of Australia.”
 

‘ECONOMIC INCLUSION ADVISORY COMMITTEE’ NEEDS TO FOCUS ON HOW MUCH PEOPLE NEED TO LIVE – NOT WHAT THE GOVERNMENT FEELS LIKE GIVING

The Greens respond to formal review process on the rate of income support, warning that it needs to be independent and include the voices of people living in poverty.

Greens spokesperson for government services and social services, Senator Janet Rice said: 

“The ‘Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee’ could be great if it leads to meaningful change, it can’t be an excuse for more delays or a pathetic raise to the rate that still leaves people living in poverty.

“This review needs a clear methodology with a focus on how much people actually need to live, not what the Government feels like allocating in the budget. 

“It should be genuinely independent with public terms of reference, public hearings and public reporting. And it needs to hear from people actually living in poverty. 

“Last week the Greens provided the Government an easy opportunity to raise the rate and do something concrete for the people that need it most, and they joined the Liberals to vote it down.

“The cost of living crisis isn’t waiting for a review – people are living in poverty right now, they can’t afford to put food on the table right now, they can’t afford their medical bills right now. 

“The Greens will keep pushing to get concrete outcomes for people on income support so Australians don’t have to make decisions like which meals to skip because they have to pay the rent this week.”