Cr Karen Pensabene, Mayor of Strathfield

Dear Residents

I hope this newsletter finds you all in high spirits and now making plans for Christmas. In this week’s message, I want to share recent developments in our Strathfield Local Government Area.

I am very excited to announce that we have received a generous grant of $100,000 from the State Government which will be allocated towards improving two much needed projects in Strathfield.

We have allocated $50,000 to the upgrade of Tavistock Reserve in Homebush West. These works will include removing the existing small play equipment and installation of new equipment, pruning trees to allow for better sunlight, repainting the bollards at the front, updating signage, and installing new seats and tables. This project will enhance the functionality of the park for all our residents to enjoy.

The remaining $50,000 will be invested in a new sound and acoustic system for the Homebush West Community Centre. This improvement will make it easier for our residents to host functions, events, and gatherings.   

I had the pleasure of attending an inspiring event at Australian Catholic University last Saturday where their STEM department showcased an array of design works created using recycled, reused and restored materials. It was truly wonderful to witness the creativity and innovation that can emerge from sustainable practices. Congratulations to the talented students and faculty who put together this fantastic display.

Sunday 11 November marks Remembrance Day, a day when we honour the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives in past wars and service to their country. Let us take a moment on Sunday, to reflect and pay our respects to their memory. Additionally, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to our current armed forces personnel. In these uncertain times, we hope for a peaceful world and the end to further loss of lives.

I would like to thank you Strathfield, for your continued support and engagement in making our community a better place. This is a direct result of your involvement, and I am so proud to serve as your Mayor.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with your ideas and questions. You can contact me at cr.kpensabene@strathfield.nsw.gov.au or contact my office 9746 9999.

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead.

Share the Dignity 2023

Join Strathfield Council at our Share the Dignity morning tea to help women in need on Wednesday 15 November, 10am. Bring a handbag filled with toiletries and feminine hygiene products for women who are displaced, at risk or experiencing domestic violence. RSVP by 13 November. Council’s collection points will be open from 10 – 26 November at Customer Service, Strathfield Library and Homebush Bendigo Bank.

Wartime Blackout, 1941

Have you visited the exhibition celebrating the centenary of Strathfield Town Hall yet?

Interestingly, one of the most intriguing incidents in the Town Hall’s history never actually took place. It was wartime and Australia was fearful of invasion. At 9pm on 21 September 1941, Sydney came to a standstill in the country’s biggest blackout test. In Strathfield a surprise attack ‘demolished’ the Town Hall’s control centre along with 14 first aid and gas decontamination posts. Wardens managed to establish a new control centre within 15 minutes, using reserve equipment.

The exhibition is on display in Strathfield Library until 10 December.

Decontamination squad in protective suits, c.1939. Courtesy State Library of Victoria