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The community is being urged to contact Healthdirect for advice if they are experiencing non-life-threatening medical issues as influenza, COVID and RSV cases continue to rise placing significant pressure on NSW public hospital emergency departments (EDs) and NSW Ambulance.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park, said people who are unsure of where to get the help they need can call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse about their condition or injury.

When phoning Healthdirect, patients are triaged by a nurse who can then refer them to a GP, virtual or urgent care; a pharmacist or allied health professional; or provide guidance on how to care for their condition from home.

Healthdirect is available 24/7 and consultations are free for Medicare card holders.

Almost 180,000 people are expected to be able to avoid a trip to busy EDs each year with the $171.4 million expansion of the services accessed via Healthdirect through the Single Front Door initiative announced in the 2024-25 NSW State Budget.

Health Minister Ryan Park has also reiterated that the best way to protect ourselves from serious illness and reduce the pressure on frontline healthcare workers this winter is to ensure you are up do date with your vaccinations.

People who are at higher risk of severe illness from influenza who are eligible for free vaccination include:

• people aged 65 years and over
• children aged six months to under five years
• Aboriginal people from six months of age
• pregnant women
• people with serious health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, severe asthma, kidney, heart, and lung disease.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“Our EDs and NSW Ambulance are facing significant challenges right now due to the very high levels of presentations and calls. I want to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of our dedicated frontline healthcare staff in caring for the community at this extremely busy time for the public health system.

“We can all play our part in supporting them by contacting Healthdirect if you need help but are not experiencing a life-threatening medical issue. We want the Healthdirect number to be as second nature as Triple 0 in NSW.

“The NSW Health Single Front Door, delivered by Healthdirect, is a critical initiative providing alternatives to emergency care. It is part of a broader range of measures the NSW Government is undertaking to connect people with the right care quickly and ease pressure on EDs.

“Our Urgent Care Services, which can be accessed through Healthdirect, provide an excellent alternative for people with health issues that are urgent, but not life threatening, to avoid attending a busy ED.

“I strongly encourage everyone, but particularly those at higher risk of severe disease, to get their influenza vaccination now. It is not too late to get vaccinated and by getting vaccinated you also help protect those around you.”

Residents and visitors to Australia’s newest city will enjoy world-class open space, with final designs for Bradfield City Centre’s Central Park released for exhibition today.

The 2 city hectare centre landmark will be the main civic centre, gathering place, and welcoming point in the city for visitors as they arrive and acting as an integral arts and culture hub for Western Sydney.

Due to open alongside the Bradfield Metro station in 2026, Central Park will be a drawcard for visitors from near and far, offering an attractive and functional space for people to explore, play, rest, and connect to nature.

A national design excellence competition was held to determine the future park’s design, judged by an esteemed jury including NSW Government Architect Abbie Galvin, renowned landscape architect and designer of Manhattan’s iconic High Line in New York City James Corner; FLUMINIS Design Advisory Services’ Kate Luckraft; Gallagher Studio’s Dr Libby Gallagher, and Jiwah’s Clarence Slockee.

The final design showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Dharug people and celebrates Sky Country. As the first design competition in NSW to integrate Designing with Country as a core requirement, Bradfield City Centre’s Central Park will set a benchmark for future public open spaces.

Key features of Central Park include:

• An iconic Skyring installation celebrating Sky Country.
• Gathering Ground for community and cultural events, with a capacity of more than 5,000 people.
• Interwoven Heart featuring Dharug weaving and woven play to enhance exploration, play, education, shade and celebration of First Nations culture.
• Integrated public art encouraging curiosity and discovery of the landscape.
• Extensive greenery, with minimum 65 per cent tree canopy cover of native species.

Designs for Central Park are on exhibition for public comment on the NSW Planning Portal until 24 July 2024.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said:

“Well designed public spaces are the lifeblood of any successful city and community.

“Central Park will be the first impression visitors have when they arrive in Bradfield city from the new Western Sydney International Airport, so it’s critical we get it right.

“We want this to be a world-class, open green space that will complement the urban Bradfield city, providing diversity of spaces for everyone.

“Investments in public spaces like Central Park are about social equity, providing the people of Western Sydney with access to more high-quality open spaces to enjoy.”

Western Parkland City Authority Chair, Jennifer Westacott AO said:

“Central Park will be a high-quality urban amenity at the heart of Bradfield City Centre.

It will bring people and importantly businesses in, boosting the economic value of everything around it.

We’re delivering a beautiful and sustainable landmark city space that is going to be a gathering place for the people of Western Sydney for generations to come.”

From 12 July, thousands of people with common skin conditions will be able to receive treatment from their pharmacist under the next phase of the NSW Pharmacy Trial.

Eligible people can visit a participating pharmacy to be treated by an appropriately trained pharmacist for impetigo (school sores), shingles, mild to moderate eczema and mild plaque psoriasis.

Under the trial, patients will not have to pay for the consultation, but will pay for the cost of medicines they receive as part of their treatment.

The University of Newcastle is leading the trial in association with the University of Technology Sydney, University of New England, Charles Sturt University, The George Institute for Global Health and the Hunter Medical Research Institute, peak bodies, and other professional organisations.

For the duration of the trial, participating pharmacies will be remunerated for each skin condition consultation they provide to avoid patients paying a fee for the service.

The trial will close on 28 February 2025, or when the maximum number of trial-supported consultations has been reached.

It follows in the footsteps of the urinary tract infection (UTI) and oral contraceptive pill trials. Since 1 June 2024, authorised pharmacies and pharmacists can now offer the UTI service as part of usual business. All pharmacy trials will undergo a detailed evaluation in 2025.

Pharmacy recruitment has commenced, initially focussing on those who participated in previous UTI and oral contraceptive pill trials. Once enrolled, pharmacists must undergo the required additional training and ensure pharmacy spaces meet the requirements of the authority.

the Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We know how difficult it is to access a GP – there were fewer GPs in NSW in 2023 than there were in 2018 – that’s why we’re making it easier for people to gain access to simple treatments and the medications they need for non-complex conditions.

“We’re doing this by empowering pharmacists to consult and provide medications – we’ve done this for urinary tract infections as well as the resupply of oral contraceptive pill.

“And soon, this initiative will expand to certain minor skin conditions.

“Thousands of people in NSW experience common skin conditions and anyone who has had or cared for someone with one of these conditions knows how uncomfortable they can be.

“The findings from the trial will help to inform the services and models of care pharmacists can provide in future.”

Pharmacy Guild NSW Branch President David Heffernan:

“This will make a real difference for patients. The success of the UTI trial shows that people value options for affordable, accessible everyday healthcare.”

“This trial will mean more accessible everyday healthcare, taking pressure off hospital emergency departments and freeing up GPs to treat more complex conditions.”

“Community pharmacies across NSW are ready to do more to help provide patients with primary health care they need.”

Orange could soon become host to national mountain bike championships following the awarding of $200,000 to Orange Mountain Bike Club from the NSW Government to upgrade the Glenwood Forest Mountain Bike Trails.

The funding will enable upgrades and repairs to trails, parking and signage as well as creation of a space capable of hosting national and state events.

The club received $325,000 from the NSW Office of Sport in 2022 to construct the Glenwood Forest Mountain Bike Trails through the Regional Sports Facility Fund.

The trails offer a variety of options that suit riders from beginner to advanced, featuring more than 400m of elevation.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“Mountain biking is a great way to get fit, make friends and enjoy nature.

“Orange has some of the best mountain biking trails in NSW and these upgrades will cement the region’s reputation as a mountain biking destination.

“With mountain biking now an Olympic sport, these trails will play an important role in developing and supporting future Olympians from the region.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato said:

“The upgrade of the Glenwood Forest Mountain Bike Trails represents a significant investment in our community’s future. This funding will not only enhance the trails but also position Orange as a premier destination for mountain biking, attracting riders from across the nation and boosting our local economy.”

“The enhanced trails will attract national and state events, bringing visitors and generating substantial economic benefits for our local businesses. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Orange Mountain Bike Club and our community.”

“Mountain biking offers incredible health and recreational benefits. These upgrades will provide our residents with even better facilities to enjoy this fantastic sport, encouraging fitness, outdoor activity, and a strong sense of community.”

Orange Mountain Bike Club, Janet Martin said:

“This grant from the NSW State Government to help upgrade and maintain the Glenwood Forest Mountain Bike Trails is a significant boost for our club and the region. It will not only allow us to host future State and National Mountain Biking events but also promote outdoor activities beneficial to health and fitness.

“Working together with the NSW State Government and Forestry will ensure the success of this project, the well-being of our community and the continuing achievement and progress of the Orange Mountain Bike Club.”

The second new Australian-built Parramatta River Class ferry, named John Nutt, has sailed towards the sails of the Opera House – marking a stunning arrival into Sydney Harbour from Tasmania to prepare to welcome passengers.

John Nutt completed her maiden landing at the Man O’War steps this morning following a successful 3 day voyage across Bass Strait.

Making a beeline for the Opera House was a fitting entrance, as the ferry’s namesake is unveiled as Dr John Nutt, known for his lead role in the construction of the world-famous landmark.

The vessel will now be handed over to operator Transdev for final checks to ensure she’s in ship-shape, before the first passengers board in July.

John Nutt will predominantly run in the calm river conditions of the F3 route, between Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park and Circular Quay.

From July 1, an extra seven ferry services will be added to the F3 between Circular Quay and Sydney Olympic Park every weekday. This comes on top of the seven additional services on weekdays and 26 on weekends announced in January this year for the F3 route.

The ferry is second of seven new Northern Beaches-designed vessels being built by Hobart-based shipbuilder Richardson Devine Marine. The first vessel in the fleet, Frances Bodkin, has been in service since April.

A team of 60 people is working to build the remaining five, which are expected to progressively enter passenger service over the course of the next 18 months.

Their names can now be revealed, honouring pioneering Australians in science and innovation. In addition to the Frances Bodkin and John Nutt, Sydneysiders will be able to enjoy journeys on:

• The Isobel Bennett
• The Martin Green
• The Ruby Payne-Scott
• The Norman Selfe
• The Jack Mundey

These ferries will be a significant improvement compared to those procured by the former government that contained asbestos, exploding engines and dangerous visibility issues for crews.

The Australian-made fleet is more reliable and comfortable, with upgraded safety systems, greater accessibility and sleeker design.

The seven new vessels will replace the RiverCat and SuperCat vessels which will be retired after 30 years of service.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building the state’s domestic manufacturing capacity. A local domestic manufacturing industry is essential both for the future of jobs in NSW and our ability to deliver the safe and reliable public transport our state needs to grow.

A plan to build a better NSW.

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

“John Nutt was the engineer behind one of Sydney’s most famous landmarks, now we’re honouring him with another.

“This classic green and cream ferry, made in Australia, will serve the Parramatta for years to come.

“It’s the second of our Parramatta River class vessels which are more fuel efficient than the vessels they replace.

“Plus the panoramic windows will give every passenger an excellent view of the John Nutt engineered Opera House as they pull into Circular Quay.”

Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said:

“These new ferries, and the more frequent timetable on the popular F3 route are a big win for anyone catching the ferry to work, school or events around Sydney.

“The population right across the Sydney Olympic Park precinct is growing, and we need more public transport services to meet demand.

“We’re meeting that demand with more ferry services, and in the future, with the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 extension that received funding from the Minns Labor Government in the most recent budget.”

Volunteers representing six separate Crown Land boards have been honoured for their long-standing service to their local communities.

Sixteen people were awarded Crown Lands Service Recognition Awards for long-term service for managing Crown reserves at two ceremonies in Dunedoo and Gilgandra.

All award recipients have been Crown Land managers for ten years or more, with two individuals dedicating more than 50 years towards managing public land: Ken Milling has been a Crown land manager of the Dunedoo Racecourse and Recreation reserve since 1969, while Darryl Cluff has been in his position on the volunteer board of Birriwa Recreation reserve since 1971.

There are over 2,500 volunteers involved in Crown reserve management across the state, freely giving their time, skills and energy for the good of their local communities. Their efforts ensure public assets are taken care of and can be equitably accessed by everyone.

Over coming months, many more long-term Crown land volunteers will receive award certificates for their service, including another 30 individuals who have volunteered their services to the management of Crown land for over 30, 40 and some who have served on a board for over 50 years.

There are over 700 Crown reserves managed by volunteers who play an important role in the management of these valuable community assets for the people of NSW. Find out more about volunteering to be a Crown land manager for your community here.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Crown land reserves are reliant on volunteers who dedicate their time and energy towards ensuring public land is managed effectively and for the benefit of all. I commend all the volunteers in the state’s Central West for their steadfast commitment to their communities.

“Crown reserves play an important role protecting the environment and supporting communities with everything from green open space, parks and walking tracks to showgrounds, sporting ovals and community halls.”

Gilgandra Racecourse and Recreation Reserve board member John Smith said:

“I love volunteering. It makes me feel proud that I’ve helped maintain this beautiful reserve and it’s a jolly good thing to give back to your community.

“The racecourse is important to people in Gilgandra. It’s a beautiful spot where we hold morning tea, weddings and funerals. I am glad that I can help take care of the racecourse so the next generation can enjoy it for years to come.”

Dunedoo Racecourse and Recreation Reserve board member Ken Milling said:

“Volunteering is a natural thing for me, I love getting involved in my community and I am very proud to look after our local racecourse in Dunedoo.

“Horse racing and polocrosse are very popular sports in our community. We’ve held many equestrian events at the racecourse over the years, which helps bring our community together.”

Birriwa Recreation Reserve manager Darryl Cuff said:

“I’ve been a volunteer in Dunedoo since the early 70s and I’ve loved every minute of it. I love giving back to the community and catching up with other locals.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done at Birriwa Recreation Reserve, including building boundary fencing, planting more trees and constructing a shed that’s used by the Rural Fire Service to house their fire truck.”

Crown Land managers who received Crown Lands Service Recognition Award certificates in the state’s Central West region

Birriwa Recreation Reserve:

• Darryl Cluff – Over 50 Years of service
• Lloyd Graham – Over 40 years of service
• Ronald Jackson – Over 30 years of service
• Maurice Cluff – Over 10 years of service

Gilgandra Racecourse and Recreation Reserve:

• John Smith – Over 40 years of service
• Barry Nangle – Over 40 years of service
• Andrew Schier – Over 20 years of service
• Stuart Border – Over 20 years of service
• Trevor Johnson – Over 20 years of service

Dunedoo Racecourse and Recreation Reserve:

• Ken Milling – Over 50 years of volunteer service

Dunedoo Showground Reserve:

• Ronald Bowman – Over 30 years of volunteer service
• Stirling Fergusson, Mark Dent and William Gaden – Over 20 years of volunteer service

Elong Elong Public Hall Reserve:

• Garry Craft – Over 30 years of volunteer service
• Jenny Tunks – Over 20 years of volunteer service
• Elinor (Rae) Craft – Over 10 years of service

Uarbry Recreation Reserve:

• Warren Piper – Over 10 years of volunteer service.

NSW has reached a significant milestone in the renewable energy rollout, with the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project securing planning approval.

It is the first REZ in Australia to achieve this critical step, paving the way for the construction of essential transmission infrastructure to connect large-scale solar, wind and energy storage projects to the electricity grid.

The project is expected to drive up to $20 billion in private investment in solar, wind and energy storage projects, supporting around 5,000 jobs during peak construction.

The Central-West Orana REZ is a key initiative under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap to deliver clean, affordable and reliable energy to households and businesses across the state. The project will deliver at least 4.5 gigawatts of transmitted electricity, which is equivalent to powering 1.8 million homes.

Planning approval of transmission lines will mean work can begin on the construction and operation of around 240km of lines and supporting infrastructure within the Central West Orana REZ. This transmission infrastructure is critical to NSW’s renewable energy future. It will connect multiple major renewable energy projects to the grid, to pump cleaner, affordable power to homes and businesses across the state.

The Environmental Impact Statement was exhibited in late 2023 and included measures to avoid, minimise or mitigate potential environmental and community impacts. Extensive community and stakeholder engagement informed a number of key changes to the project.

In order to proceed with planning approval, the NSW Government assigned nearly 100 approval conditions to support the rollout of the transmission project.

The Central-West Orana REZ is approximately 20,000 km2, and takes in cities and towns including Dubbo, Dunedoo and Mudgee.

The Central-West Orana REZ offers significant opportunities for the region and will:

• drive economic growth through substantial private investment
• Invest in community benefit projects that will leave a lasting legacy
• create local jobs in construction and ongoing maintenance

Financial close for the project is scheduled for the second half of 2024. Construction works are expected from late 2024, with initial operation anticipated in 2028.

More information will be available here at 9am.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe:

“This is the first REZ Transmission Project in the country to obtain planning approval, paving the way for a significant boost in renewable energy generation to replace aging coal-fired power stations.

“It’s not just about clean energy. This project will bring long-term financial benefits to both NSW electricity consumers and the local communities which will host the Central-West Orana REZ.

“The Minns Labor Government will continue to work closely with communities, the Australian Government and the preferred network operator to finalise the project.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully:

“Planning approval for the Central-West Orana REZ transmission project is a huge step forward in progressing 12GW gigawatts of generation under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and moving towards our clean energy future.

“The Minns Labor Government is accelerating the delivery of renewable energy infrastructure. We also know that if done right, this energy generation transition will develop a wave of new industry and jobs. That means transmission jobs, manufacturing jobs, construction jobs and maintenance jobs.

“Our recent budget invested money into the planning system to support and speed up the NSW Government’s assessment of renewable energy projects and meet our 2050 goal of Net Zero emissions.”