Cr Karen Pensabene, Mayor of Strathfield

Dear Strathfield residents,

I trust your week has been both successful and enjoyable, much like mine.

Additionally, Council has established an events committee this week. Collaborating with our Communications and Events team, we aim to bring fun and joy through various free events to help connect our community. Keep an eye on our website, eNews and social media for updates throughout the year.

This week, I had the privilege of joining several High Schools in celebrating the 2023 HSC achievements. Congratulations to all the students who undertook their exams, our area is fortunate to have outstanding state and private schools that contribute to making Strathfield a highly sought-after place to reside.

Lunar New Year festivities continued this week, with Homebush West coming alive with the Dragon Festival. This event holds special significance for me as it brings back fond memories of my time in Taiwan, where the Lunar New Year was marked by the vibrant sounds of drums, lion dancing, and fireworks. Homebush West is the sole festival in our area featuring fireworks, adding an extra layer of nostalgia.

This week, I participated in a gathering at the Police Command in Auburn alongside all stakeholders in our Local Government Area (LGA). It is reassuring to note that crime statistics have not increased, although there is still significant work ahead. I specifically inquired about the increased presence of cars involved in suspicious activity in our streets. Police emphasised two crucial pieces of advice: never approach cars; and try to capture number plates by zooming in and taking a photo. In case of any concerns or information valuable to the police, please feel free to email me (details below).

Upcoming activities for the weekend include a new Library art exhibition titled Beaches, Boats & Bays by Jillian Corcoran and free Movies in the Park at sunset (approx. 7:30pm) in Strathfield Park, featuring The Secret Life of Pets 2.

If you need to contact me or have any questions, please do so by emailing me cr.kpensabene@strathfield.nsw.gov.au or ring our office on 9748 9999 

Seniors Week 2024 is just around the corner!

We've got Elvis, Morning Tea with the Mayor and outdoor activities such as golf and croquet to keep you booked and busy! Be sure to make a booking to join Strathfield Council for these FREE events during 14 - 24 March 2024.

Flemington (Homebush West) Public School

As our younger residents settle into a new school year, we feature a 1942 wartime class photo from Flemington (Homebush West since 1947) Public School. While many of the girls wear hair bows for the photo, it is likely that most of the boys are shoeless. The girls have brought their dolls to share the special occasion. The school was officially opened 30 years earlier on 24 August 1912 with Mr Carmichael, Minister of Public Instruction, unlocking the door with a golden key. The initial enrolment of 50 grew to 153 by the end of the first week.

Image: Flemington Public School class, 1942. Courtesy Strathfield Local Studies