July 2024 – Page 6

City of Newcastle honours research legacy of Distinguished Laureate Professor Roger Smith

An internationally recognised researcher who has advanced our understanding of human birth has been named the 19^th Freeman of the City of Newcastle.

In a career that spans more than 35 years, Distinguished Laureate Professor Roger Smith AM has sought answers to some of medicine’s biggest questions, helping families across the world with his research into pregnancy, premature birth and stillbirth.

Freeman of the City Distinguished Laureate Professor Roger Smith AM after being presented with his medal by Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Professor Smith has made his mark in Newcastle and overseas.

“Professor Smith’s research is dedicated to improving the welfare and the wellbeing of everyone,” Cr Nelmes said.

“He was instrumental in the creation of the Hunter Medical Research Cooperative Limited in 1990, which eventually became the world-leading Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).

“Professor Smith established the Gomeroi Gaanyggal project in Tamworth, Newcastle and Walgett, endeavouring to ‘close the gap’ where Aboriginal health is concerned, using art as a medium for increasing Indigenous women’s access to healthcare during pregnancy.

“He also helped create a program in Nepal that reduced maternal mortality by 40 per cent by encouraging the Nepalese military to conduct helicopter evacuations of women with obstetric emergencies. The program arranged supplies of sanitary napkins for 2.6 million schoolgirls to allow them to stay at school longer and increase their future opportunities.”

Professor Smith said being named a Freeman of the City was an unexpected honour.

“It’s exciting to be the first scientist and researcher to become a Freeman of the City and I believe it represents a change in the way Newcastle thinks about itself,” Professor Smith said.

“I’d like to see Newcastle continue to develop as a city of ideas, finding solutions for global problems such as climate change and artificial intelligence, bringing together business groups, the University of Newcastle, HMRI, Hunter New England Health and City of Newcastle to generate this future. I’d like to be part of Newcastle’s contribution to the world.

“Newcastle has been my adopted home for the last 44 years and it’s where we brought up our children and now our grandchildren are growing up here. I love that I can get to work in 15 minutes and have a swim before or after work, or both.

“I also love that Newcastle has everything from libraries to the art gallery, a conservatorium, port, airport, sports ground, beaches and restaurants, yet it’s small enough that it’s like living in a village, which is good for our mental health.”

Among his incredible list of achievements, Professor Smith and his team of researchers discovered the biological clock within the human placenta that determines the length of human pregnancy.

He and his team discovered how aging of the placenta can be a cause of stillbirth and have developed nanoparticles targeted to the muscle of the uterus as a treatment for premature birth.

Professor Smith was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2013 for his outstanding contribution to the field of human pregnancy physiology and Indigenous health.

He is a Fellow of the Australian Society for Reproductive Biology, a Life Member of the Endocrine Society of Australia and Scientific Director of the HMRI Mothers and Babies Research Program.

Professor Smith joins an illustrious group of Novocastrians to be awarded the Freeman of the City honour including Surfest co-founder Warren Smith, award-winning architect Brian Suters and sporting administrator and civic luminary, Adele Saunders OAM.

City of Newcastle celebrates powerful turnout for ‘Electrify Everything’

The atmosphere was electric at City Hall last night as more than 800 people came to listen to world renowned entrepreneur, author, and inventor Dr Saul Griffith.

The free event known as Electrify Everything saw Dr Griffith encouraging Novocastrians to be part of the solution to achieving a clean energy future, proposing critical actions that all Australians can take this decade that will save money and our children’s future.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen with Dr Saul Griffith at City Hall.Dr Griffith said communities have the most to benefit from an electrified future powered by our abundant solar energy – local jobs, healthier streets and lower energy bills.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle has collaborated with Dr Griffith over many years on renewable energy and sustainability initiatives.

“It was wonderful to welcome Dr. Saul Griffith back to the city as part of our Empowering Newcastle series,” Cr Nelmes said.

“He’s an advocate for ambitious climate policy and was happy to host the free event to talk about a plan to electrify Newcastle’s homes, businesses, and cars which would create new jobs and a healthier environment for generations to come.

“I’m proud that so many Novocastrians attended to learn more about how to be part of the solution to the climate crisis.”

More than 800 people at City Hall for ‘Electrify Everything’.Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the strong attendance was a testament to the community’s desire to embrace new technology to solve climate challenges.

“City of Newcastle has a proud track record when it comes to environmental initiatives and I’m proud that our residents support plans such as the 10-year Newcastle Environment Strategy,” Cr Clausen said.

The Empowering Newcastle series continues on 8 August with City of Newcastle hosting a roundtable to discuss electric vehicles and low emissions transport.

A host of stakeholders will be invited, including Transport for NSW, the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, the University of Newcastle, Business Hunter and Port of Newcastle to discuss the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to electric vehicles and low emissions transport in Newcastle.

On 17 August City of Newcastle will invite the community to join NSW Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Heritage Minister Penny Sharpe and the Lord Mayor to hear about the renewable energy transformation in the Hunter and opportunities for all residents to be part of our net zero future.

To secure tickets visit https://www.trybooking.com/CSVXK

Fences down around waterfront Metro Station at Barangaroo from Monday

Barangaroo’s newest precinct around the new Barangaroo Metro Station will open to the public on Monday 29 July, ahead of the new M1 Line launching in August.

The target opening date for Barangaroo Station and Sydney Metro is August 4, subject to approval by the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator, successful completion of trial running exercises and system performance tests.

Barangaroo Station will see an estimated 14,400 commuters pass through each weekday, unlocking this key part of the city with greater connections and faster travel times.

A trip from Barangaroo to Martin Place will take two minutes, and under the harbour to Victoria Cross in the city’s north just three minutes.

People travelling from the city’s northwest will have direct, fast and reliable access to this part of the city for the first time, including from Chatswood to Barangaroo in nine minutes, Epping in 11 minutes and Macquarie Park in 18 minutes.

The area surrounding Barangaroo Station is lined with new footpaths, nearly 200 trees and plants, 38 new streetlights and new bike parking facilities.

Around the precinct, 13 long concrete benches, each weighing 12 tonnes, have been installed for people to enjoy the harbour views, as well as new bus stops, and drop-off points for taxis and vehicles, close to the station entry.

Next to the Nawi Cove station entrance stands a nine metre long, cast iron statue replica of the historic Barangaroo Boat, marking the location where the 200-year-old artefact, which archaeologists believe was used for cargo in the 1800s, was found during excavation

This is the first section of the precinct to be opened for public use. The remainder will be handed over by the end of the year and includes road surface works on and around Dalgety Bridge, the car park at 25 Hickson Road and the paths on the eastern edge of Hickson Road. In the coming years, an additional southern entrance will be added to the station as part of the future Central Barangaroo development.

When metro services start, Barangaroo Station will improve access to the Walsh Bay Arts and Culture precinct as well as providing easy access to the public, residential, commercial and entertainment areas of the city and the new ferry hub.

For more information visit: sydneymetro.info/station/barangaroo-station

Transport Minister Jo Haylen:
“We’re excited to open this beautiful public space as we get ready to deliver Barangaroo’s brand-new metro station and make this growing waterfront precinct even more accessible for Sydneysiders and visitors.

“The work that’s been done here doesn’t just deliver a brand new metro station, but also a functional and modern pedestrian precinct with new parkland for everyone to enjoy some of our harbour’s most stunning vantage points.

“This is a sign of what’s to come across the city this year, as we continue to work towards the opening of Sydney Metro.”

It’s ‘Aussie, Aussie, Aussie – oui, oui, oui’ as NSW supports our teams in Paris

The NSW Government will turn the state green and gold in support of the Australian Olympic Team and the Australian Paralympic Team as they compete at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

With nearly a third of the 460-member Australian Olympic Team, and a significant number of Paralympians, hailing from NSW, showcasing our state’s significant representation on the global sporting stage, the NSW Government is backing our athletes all the way.

To demonstrate our support, the NSW Government will transform its website and social media profiles green and gold during both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Service NSW screens across the state will also bear messages of encouragement for our athletes.

The Sydney Opera House shells will be illuminated green and gold on the evening of Thursday, 1 August 2024 in celebration of the dedication and achievement of our Olympians and Paralympians.

This comes ahead of what has been dubbed ‘Green & Gold Day’ by the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) on Friday, 2 August. Everyone is encouraged to wear our nation’s colours on this day to show their support for our sporting stars and their inspirational efforts in Paris.

Throughout both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, fans will be able to gather at Sydney’s Darling Harbour free Live Site to cheer on our athletes. Giant screens will broadcast live and replayed coverage from 12pm to 11pm daily.

The Live Site is part of Olympics & Paralympics LIVE, an initiative by the AOC and Paralympics Australia, aimed at fostering celebrations at live sites and watch parties around the nation.

Matildas fans can watch live screenings of matches against Zambia and the United States of America next week for free at the Sydney Opera House Playhouse. Tickets are available online until allocation is exhausted.

In a historic first, the NSW Government is proud to have provided equal funding of $750,000 each to the Olympic and Paralympic Teams to help them with the costs of supporting athletes at the Paris Games.

To book tickets for the Sydney Opera House screenings, visit the Sydney Opera House website.

For more information about the Live Site and scheduled activities, please visit the Darling Harbour website.

For more information about Green and Gold Day, please visit the Australian Olympic Committee website.

Fans are encouraged to use public transport to travel to and from the Live Site. Visit transportnsw.info to plan your trip.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“We’re getting behind our athletes as they take on the world and bring us together as a state and a nation.

“NSW is a proud Olympic and Paralympic state, and there’s no better way to show support for our inspirational athletes in Paris than by lighting up our most iconic landmark, the Sydney Opera House, in green and gold.”

Acting Minister for Sport Rose Jackson said:

“We are extremely proud of the NSW athletes, and all Aussies competing, at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Their dedication and commitment are inspiring the next generation of sporting champions.

“This government is incredibly proud to have played a part in making dreams come true by providing equal funding of $750,000 to both the Olympic and Paralympic Teams to help with their preparation for Paris.”

Minister for the Arts John Graham said:

“There is nothing like cheering on our Australian athletes together with friends and community.

“The chance to do that at the Sydney Opera House for these two Matildas games will make those moments even more special for some.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The free Live Site at Darling Harbour offers everyone the opportunity to come together and cheer on our athletes every day and night during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“I encourage everyone to don their best green and gold outfits and gather with family and friends to watch sporting history unfold.”

Chief Executive Officer Australian Olympic Committee Matt Carroll AM said:

“We welcome and thank NSW Premier Minns and his Ministers for their support of the Australian Olympic Team, it is appreciated by the athletes and their sports.

“The support of the Olympic and Paralympic LIVE sites and now getting behind ‘Green and Gold Day’ by lighting up the Sydney Opera House will be an inspiration to our Team and encourages all Australians to wear the Green and Gold with pride.”

Paralympics Australia CEO – Interim Cameron Murray said:

“The support of the NSW Government for the Australian Paralympic Team is deeply appreciated as we finalise preparations for Paris 2024.

“I encourage the people of NSW to get behind our team through attending or hosting Paralympics LIVE events or welcoming our Olympians and Paralympians home at Tumbalong Park.”

Rugby Sevens Olympian Maurice Longbottom said:

“It’s great to get the support from back home. It’s a special moment for the sails to be lit up – it doesn’t happen every day.

“People need to know that the athletes here in Paris really do feel all the passion coming from everyone back in Australia, so it’s an exciting gesture.

“We wear green and gold every day over here and with great pride. We look forward to seeing the images when it happens, it’ll be a buzz!”

Boccia BC3 Paralympian Jamieson Leeson said:

“Paralympics LIVE is a great way to support the Australian Paralympic Team and bring us closer together, despite the distance.

“As an athlete who grew up in regional NSW, knowing we will have the support from home while we chase our goals and show what is possible in Paris will mean the world to us.

“We want to inspire and engage Australians, with or without an impairment, to be the best versions of themselves and to meet life’s challenges.”

Olympics extended trading a win for fans and venues

Local Olympics fans will be able to watch many of the major events at the Paris Games live at pubs, clubs and bars across the state, thanks to the NSW Government’s Special Event Extended Trading.

Venues can trade during the early hours of the morning if they screen selected 2024 Olympics events for patrons.

With an eight-hour time difference between Paris and Sydney, the extended trading will give more fans the chance to cheer on their favourite athletes and teams.

The NSW Government’s Special Event Extended Trading supports the state’s venues and encourages a vibrant nightlife for residents and tourists.

Under the extensions, venues can open their doors longer for special cultural and sporting events, helping to boost local night-time economies.

Patrons should check with their local venue for specific opening hours during the games.

Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“Olympic fever only strikes once every four years and as Australians we know this means late nights and some sleep deprivation to enjoy it properly.

“There is nothing like cheering home a gold medal winner with friends and community. Special event extended trading will support that – as well as an economic boost and more jobs at night.

“All NSW pubs, clubs and bars are eligible venues for the Olympics extended trading hours, and do not need to apply individually to open when they screen the Games live.”

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

“The Olympics is the biggest show on Earth, and Australia is one of its most sport-loving nations, so it’s appropriate that NSW residents will be able to come together at local venues to cheer on our athletes competing in these major events.

“The extended trading will allow our pubs, clubs and bars to benefit from the Games while patrons soak up the Olympics atmosphere.

“Enabling venues to trade later during major sporting events is a key part of the NSW Government’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and vibrant night-time economy across NSW.

“I look forward to joining the late-night crowds to cheer on our Olympians during the coming weeks.”

Ausgrid workers’ industrial action set to impact Sydney and regional NSW

Electrical Trades Union

Electrical Trades Union (ETU) Ausgrid members across Sydney and parts of regional NSW will take strike action, outraged by the company’s refusal to offer a wage rise that recognises the rise in the cost of living.

Up to two million Ausgrid customers could face inconveniences as part of the industrial action, which could kick off as soon as this week.

Around 1600 ETU members have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a range of actions including work stoppages, overtime bans, switching bans and locking bans.

Households and businesses could experience maintenance delays and other inconveniences unless Ausgrid offers workers a serious pay rise that helps them keep up with the soaring cost of living.

Electrical contractors rely on switching to turn the power off to do major work and maintenance, or connect power to properties.

A whopping 93% of union members rejected Ausgrid’s offer earlier in the month, paving the way for industrial action.

Any emergency work will not be affected by the action.

The poles and wires company services around two million customers, which equates to more than four million people, across most of Sydney’s east, north and inner-city, as well as the Central Coast and Hunter Valley.

Ausgrid is the third major power company in NSW in a dispute about giving workers the pay and conditions they deserve, joining Transgrid and Endeavour Energy.

ETU NSW/ACT Secretary Allen Hicks said:

“The millions of Australians who rely on the east coast’s largest electricity distributor should be alarmed to learn how Ausgrid is treating its staff, who keep their power running and their lights on day in and day out,” he said.

“Ausgrid’s insulting pay offer has left workers with no choice but to launch industrial action including work stoppages.

“Ausgrid could instantly prevent any maintenance delays or inconveniences to the community with a serious offer that helps workers keep up with the spiralling cost of living.

“Ausgrid workers’ real wages have gone backwards with the cost-of-living crisis eroding the value of their last pay rise. Their experience is not recognised or rewarded, despite their critical role providing a safe and reliable electricity network for millions of NSW homes, businesses, schools, hospitals and infrastructure.

“ETU members haven’t yet received an offer that will allow them to keep up with cost of living increases. They have no choice but to continue to exercise their legal right to withdraw their labour until they get an offer that doesn’t send their wages backwards.”

Background:

ETU members are seeking annual pay rises of 8% for the next three years, plus a 1% superannuation increase over two years in addition to the federal super guarantee of 0.5% increase in years one and two

Ausgrid offered a 7% pay increase in the first years, followed by 2.7% (or CPI if it is higher) in years two and three, and the federal super guarantee of 0.5% increase in years one and two

ETU members put a counteroffer of a one-year agreement of 8% with other allowances which was rejected by Ausgrid

Bargaining started in May

The NSW government owns 49.6% of Ausgrid with the rest in the hands of AustralianSuper (8.4%), IFM Investors (25.2%) and APG Asset Management Group (16.8%)

Appeal to locate boy missing from Rutherford

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a boy missing from the Hunter Region.

Jordan Christian, aged 14, was last seen in Rutherford about 1pm on Saturday 6 July 2024.

Officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were notified about 5pm on Wednesday 24 July 2024, and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Concerns are held for his welfare due to his young age.

Jordan is described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance, and about 175cm tall with medium build.

He is known to frequent Rutherford and Lochinvar.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

NSW First Nations Team set for National Tournament

Netball NSW is delighted to announce the athletes selected to represent New South Wales at Netball Australia’s inaugural First Nations National Tournament scheduled to be held in Melbourne this September.

With the support of FDC, the NSW First Nations Team will contest the Tournament which aims to provide accelerated and equitable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants in netball.

The Tournament will take place at the State Netball Centre in Melbourne from Friday to Sunday, 13-15 September.

The Tournament will feature Under-23 aged teams from every State and Territory who will compete across three days of competition.

Alongside NSW the Tournament will also have teams representing Victoria, ACT, Tasmania, South Australia, Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

“The 2024 pilot First Nations Tournament marks the first step of a national First Nations netball competition,” Netball Australia CEO Stacey West said.

“It will provide the opportunity for Netball Australia and its Member Organisations to develop what an ongoing First Nations tournament can grow to become as our sport moves forward on its collective First Nations journey.”

First Nations coaches, umpires and officials from around the country will also take part in the inaugural event, further showcasing the depth of Indigenous talent that exits across the netball landscape.

Leading the NSW team in Melbourne will be Colleen Mitchell (Head Coach) and Kellyanne Huggins (Assistant Coach), while Emerging Umpire Ryan Ahearne will also be participating.

The Tournament follows several national First Nations programs established this year including a pilot First Nations Coaching Course, as well as the formation and debut of Netball Australia’s First Nations Invitational Netball Team, the Black Swans, at the 2024 Pacific Netball Series.

Netball Australia’s First Nations Engagement Lead Ali Tucker-Munro expressed the importance of the inaugural Tournament.

“I cannot wait to see our girls in action, as well as the opportunity to connect with mob from across Australia who share the same passion and love for our great game that I do,” Tucker-Munro said.

“The introduction of this First Nations Tournament demonstrates the commitment from Netball Australia and all Member Organisations to take the required steps to ensure our sport is a safe inclusive space for First Nations Australians, whilst recognising and nurturing the First Nations talent we know exists within our communities across Australia.

“I’d also like to thank our partners who have demonstrated a deep understanding of what it means to invest in programs that create opportunities specifically for our strong staunch First Nations women and girls.”

Russell Grady, Managing Director of FDC, who are supporting the NSW team, said:

“As long-term supporters of women’s sport and GIANTS Netball, FDC were thrilled to be offered the opportunity to assist Netball NSW in participating in the pilot First Nations Tournament. We would like to thank Netball Australia for introducing this great initiative.

“The impact that such an event will have on encouraging and developing the talents of First Nations netballers across the country, and contributing to the overall strength of our game, cannot be underestimated.

“FDC are very proud to be able to support such a worthwhile event and look forward to its future successes”.

Netball NSW CEO Tracey Scott said:

“Netball NSW firmly believes that there should be an annual First Nations National Tournament in the high-performance calendar and we confirmed our commitment to this initiative immediately upon it being raised as a possibility.

“I would like to sincerely thank FDC for their support to enable us to participate and Netball Australia for working collaboratively with its Member Organisations to ensure the tournament commences this year.”

The 2024 First Nations Tournament will be free for patrons to attend.

NSW FIRST NATIONS TEAM

Acacia Elers (Newcastle/Worimi)
Alirah Watton (Dubbo /Gamilaroi )
Ayla Clark (Sutherland Shire /Worimi)
Charlotte Ryan (Randwick/Dharawal)
Ellie Stacey (Maitland/ Wonnarua)
Jayda Grant (Wyong District/Wiradjuri)
Jaylah Boney (Charlestown /Ngemba/Barkinji)
Mia Evans (Illawarra Distrit/Kamilaroi)
Sarah Graham (Newcastle/Biripi)
Tahlia Robertson (Sutherland Shire/Noongar)
COACHING TEAM
Colleen Mitchell (Head Coach / Ku-Ring-Gai/Worimi)
Kellyanne Huggins (Assistant Coach/Maitland/Gomeroi)
OFFICIALS
Ryan Ahearne (Umpire/Randwick/Wiradjuri)

Trio charged over alleged forced marriage of two children in WA

The AFP has charged three men over the alleged forced marriage of two teenage children in Perth, the first time the AFP has laid charges in Western Australia for this crime.

The men – two of whom are related to the boy and one who is related to the girl – faced Perth Magistrates Court today (26 July, 2024) each charged with one count of causing a person to enter into a forced marriage in circumstances of aggravation, contrary to sections 270.7B(1) and 270.8 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth). The matter has been adjourned until next month (August, 2024).

The maximum penalty for the offence is nine years’ imprisonment.

Police will allege the teenagers, one of whom was aged between 13 and 15 and the other who was 17, wanted to date each other but the relatives told them they would have to be married for cultural reasons.

The men then allegedly facilitated the marriage of the children in a religious ceremony last year (2023).

AFP Detective Superintendent Peter Chwal said the definition of a forced marriage was when a person married without freely and fully consenting, because they had been coerced, threatened, or deceived, or because they were incapable of understanding the nature and effect of a marriage ceremony, for reasons including age or mental capacity.

“The legal age for marriage in Australia is 18; and while a child aged 16 to 18 can obtain permission from a Court to marry, the person they wed must be an adult,” he said.

Det-Supt Chwal said forced marriage was a complex crime because it often involved family members as victims and perpetrators, and the number one priority for the AFP was the wellbeing and safety of victims.

“The AFP’s key focus is to disrupt and prevent this crime – by building awareness of the laws in Australia, the warning signs of forced marriage, and the help that can be provided to victims,” he said.

“If victims do not feel comfortable speaking directly to police, there are many services and agencies which can provide support to help ensure their safety.”

Det-Supt Chwal said forced marriage was not limited to any cultural group, religion or ethnicity.

“Anyone can be a victim of forced marriage, regardless of their age, gender or sexual orientation,” Det-Supt Chwal said.

Forced marriage has been illegal in Australia since 2013 and can apply to legally recognised marriages, cultural or religious ceremonies, marriages which occur in Australia or where a person is taken overseas to be married, and can include the conduct of those involved in facilitating the forced marriage.

If you suspect that you or another person is experiencing, or at risk of, forced marriage or human trafficking, call 131 AFP (237) or use the AFP’s human trafficking online information report. If you have immediate concerns for your safety, the safety of another person, or there is an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).

The Support for Trafficked People Program is a key component of Australia’s response to support victims of human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices.

If you or someone you know is being exploited, help is available. For information and confidential advice please contact Australian Red Cross. Call 1800 113 015 or visit redcross.org.au/stpp.

Common signs of forced marriage

Common signs of forced marriage include a person who may:

have a family history of elder siblings leaving education early, marrying early or indicating concerns of an early marriage;
be highly controlled by family or community members in and outside of the home, including surveillance; always accompanied; limited or no control of finances; limited or no control over life decisions, education and career choices;
have communications monitored or restricted;
express concern regarding an upcoming family holiday or overseas travel;
demonstrate feelings of conflict or concern for the ramifications if they do not go ahead with an agreed marriage or engagement; and,
express concern of physical or psychological violence for not fulfilling family or community expectations.

Netball NSW unveils First Nations artwork by Bindi Bindi Art

Netball NSW is proud to introduce the organisation’s Aboriginal Artwork, Harmony on the Court, which will be integrated into all elements of Netball NSW going forward.

Designed by Chloe Eastwood and Tay-la Shearley of Bindi Bindi Art, the design depicts vibrant hues and intricate Aboriginal designs, transforming a netball court into sacred ground.

Harmony on the Court embraces the colours of Netball NSW while reflecting the land, waterways, and natural fauna found across the state. It showcases the unity and diversity of Associations and Clubs, engaging participants, creating community and life-long connections.

The court’s markings intertwine with Dreamtime symbols, signifying a rich cultural tapestry and profound land connection. The regions across NSW are connected like players on the court, working together towards common goals, demonstrating the power of teamwork and unity, where everyone’s role is crucial to the success of the team.

Intricately placed symbols represent the connection between players on a court, and the regions across NSW that play their part in the landscape of netball, each a tribute to the ancestral pathways, connecting the Aboriginal community to their land and heritage.

The artists, Chloe and Tay-la, are proud Ngemba and Wiradjuri women who have a strong connection to the Darug community and also consider it home.

“Our connection to Netball NSW is deeply rooted in our personal experiences and a shared passion for the sport’’ say Chloe and Tayla

“Both of us grew up playing netball, fostering a love for the game that extended beyond the court. Whether actively participating or avidly spectating, netball has been an integral part of our lives.

“Now, as parents, we are excited to further nurture this connection by enrolling our daughter in her first year of playing netball. This marks not only a continuation of our family’s involvement in the sport but also a new chapter in our shared journey with Netball NSW, as we pass on the legacy of our love for netball to the next generation.”

The design radiates Netball NSW’s core values:

Creating an inclusive, welcoming environment
Fostering teamwork and unity
Striving for excellence
Promoting fun and passion for the game

These elements merge to form a dynamic representation of a community rooted in tradition, excellence, and a shared love of the game.

Netball NSW CEO Tracey Scott thanked Chloe and Tay-la for showing through their art netball’s connection to community and land.

‘’Harmony on the Court certainly embodies netball in NSW through the lens of Aboriginal culture and pays homage to the Netball NSW Vision, Purpose and Values,’’ she said.

‘’We are excited to showcase the artwork through our pathways, programs, competitions and the Netball NSW brand.’’

Netball NSW thanks all the artists who put forward an Expression of Interest to design the organisation’s First Nations artwork.