Ellissa Simmonds: Defining Inspirational

Last Sunday, I was honoured to attend the prestigious Rotary Inspirational Women's 2024, a significant event presented by Rotary District 9675 that celebrates the achievements of exceptional women in our communities.

The Rotary Inspirational Women's Awards (RIWA) were established 15 years ago to recognise women and young women who best exemplify Rotary's motto of Service above Self.

The awards, divided into two categories, Inspirational Women and Young Inspirational Women, acknowledge and celebrate community service performed by women through their various activities and endeavours. They recognise the work done by women, the "quiet achievers" whose actions inspire others and make a difference in their communities.

I am thrilled to share that our own Penrith resident, Elissa Simmonds, was named Young Inspirational Woman for 2024. Ms Simmonds is the epitome of inspiration. Her resilience, cultural awareness, and lived experience make her an invaluable asset to the Penrith community, inspiring us all to strive for excellence and make a positive impact.

As a proud Gomeroi and Wiradjuri woman, Ms Simmonds is breaking barriers as the first in her generation to study for a Doctorate in Medicine at UNSW while living with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.

Ms Simmonds previously interned at the Aging and Disability Commission, advocating for people experiencing abuse. Her resilience and determination shine through her work at Blacktown Street Kitchen, where she distributes supplies and offers compassionate support.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rotary for hosting such an inspiring event and honouring all the fabulous women from across our state. To all the women nominated for this year's Rotary Inspirational Women's Awards, your dedication and service are truly making a difference and deserve our utmost respect.

Celebrating Culture and Unity: A Weekend of Sri Lankan Heritage in Penrith

This past weekend we celebrated all things Sri Lanka. I attended two spectacular cultural events showcasing our Penrith community's vibrant diversity and rich heritage.

On Saturday, the Sinhalese Cultural Forum of NSW hosted their Pipena Kekulu Biennial Concert 2024, an colourful display of Sinhala music, dance, and drama. The packed venue really showcased the community's involvement, with young students from the seven Sinhala language schools across the state contributing to the cultural legacy and preserving their Sri Lankan roots. 

It was a moving celebration of the Sinhala language and traditions, with performances that left a lasting impression on everyone present. The tireless work of the Sinhalese Cultural Forum in keeping cultural education alive through our youth was on full display, making it a memorable event for all attendees.

On Sunday, I was fortunate to experience yet another cultural gem: "Once Upon a Time in Sri Lanka," presented by Vidhunarthana Dancing School. Celebrating 17 years of their commitment to Sri Lankan dance, the event brought together 100 performers and renowned guest artists from Sri Lanka. The evening was filled with artistic expression and stunning choreography, further enriched by the school's involvement in multicultural events.

These two events over the weekend were powerful reminders of the diverse cultures that shape and strengthen our Penrith community. They not only offered an opportunity to celebrate heritage, unity, and artistic excellence but also made us proud of our rich cultural tapestry.

Our Frontline Workers Acknowledged

The NSW Government and the firefighter's union have reached a well-deserved agreement that will see an interim pay rise of 3 percent, industrial action cease, and the independent industrial umpire resolve the remaining issues in dispute.

With high temperatures and dangerous fire conditions forecast for this summer, our workers on the frontline of rescue and emergency response deserve fair and sustainable wages.

The pay increase for 6,800 Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) firefighters will be backdated to February and follows a 4.5 per cent pay rise (inclusive of super) delivered to firefighters last year, the highest in over a decade.

This agreement reaffirms the NSW Government's commitment to a fair, modern, and sustainable wage policy for firefighters and helps undo the damage caused by the former Coalition government's 12 years of pay neglect. 

The pay rise comes as the Government and the Nurses & Midwives Association have accepted the interim 3 per cent wage increase, as recommended by the IRC, backdated to 1 July.