Sydney’s Greystanes shopping centre has been sold for $76 million by the Region group to Revelop as neighbourhood shopping centre prices rebound The Revelop group struck the deal at a rate of $12,639 per sqm on a yield of 5.5 per cent which represented the lowest capitalisation rate paid for a neighbourhood shopping centre above $50 million in the last three years “The acquisition not only strengthens our presence in Western Sydney but also creates powerful synergies with our existing centres in surrounding areas including Pemulwuy and Stanhope,” said Charbel Hazzouri a real estate services and investment firm negotiated the deal on behalf of the Region group.  “We are increasingly seeing vendor and purchaser price alignment on transactions the strong pricing and total return outcome for Region Group was matched by Revelop’s desire to acquire an asset in metropolitan Sydney and in an area where they held other retail investments,” said CBRE’s national director of retail investments parking for 271 spaces and serves a trade area of around 90,000 people By continuing, you agree to Octomedia Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy FOR the family who have called Greystanes home for over a decade leaving for the last time will be a sad day The owners say this five-bedroom historic home has been a wonderful place to make memories “This will be the same for the next owner,” they said “It would be wonderful to see a family move in and enjoy living here as much as we have.” A prime example of the Arts & Crafts architectural movement Sandy Bay was built in 1910 for William Webster of the prominent firm AG Webster Extensive use of English oak and cedar timber — and the retention of classic original features throughout — demonstrate a level of craftsmanship almost unobtainable in modern builds while sympathetically implemented updates offer comfortable and convenient contemporary living The sprawling home is privately nestled on a verdant allotment of 2544sq m in a quiet and highly coveted pocket of Sandy Bay “The home was built in the style of leading UK architect CFA Voysey,” the owners said “It was among the things that appealed to us when we purchased the home Few are in such good nick; take the untouched woodwork “Unlike some historic homes that have been changed over time we liked that Greystanes had retained its original floorplan,” she said “We have a lot of respect for the house and wanted our footprint to be small We worked with Heritage Tasmania on how to best include things like new bathrooms for a modern style of living One of their significant updates was the contemporary kitchen “We converted a living room into a kitchen but we did it in a way so that if the kitchen was to be removed all the important details like the period architraves are intact “The addition of the kitchen certainly transformed our living space.” MORE: ‘Dire’: Vacancy rate increase not enough in tight, expensive market How far Hobart home prices could rise or fall in 2025 Swansea’s Grange offers premium vineyard, and a bonus option Elders Tasmania agent Abi Freeman said bringing a property such as this to the market provides an exceptional opportunity for new owners to acquire a substantial holding in this sought-after locale privacy and location were among the property’s enticing features “The owners did a great job of balancing the soul of the home and its history alongside the modern amenities Mrs Freeman said the market had responded well to how the home is presented “We have had strong interest in the property so far,” she said the majority of inquiries have come from Tasmanian buyers.” with the home offering a number of spacious living rooms that flow off the magnificent cedar-panelled reception hall Perfect for entertaining friends and family the well-equipped kitchen has a sunny bay window seat plus a Zip filtered boiling and sparkling water dispenser The kitchen is open to the large living room highlighted by a marble fireplace and a built-in wood burner From here there is access to a sheltered sun porch a formal dining room and sitting room open to the veranda providing further living space workshop and a WC complete the floorplan on the entry level The imposing oak staircase leads to the upper level accommodating the private master bedroom suite — with an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe — alongside three further bedrooms with built-in wardrobes an additional room currently configured as a playroom Recently installed ducted gas heating and in-floor heating in the bathrooms ensures year-round comfort including antique cut glass doorknobs and light fixtures a large stone paved courtyard — at the rear of the property — features a newly tiled solar heated saltwater pool and a pizza oven for hosting at home over the summer months The house is surrounded by verdant established grounds with mature plantings including elm a double carport and off-street parking in the driveway the classic melds seamlessly with the contemporary throughout this immaculately presented property Greystanes is listed for sale with Elders Tasmania third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. 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Error: no decision tree source folder detected This is probably not the page you’re looking for A truck driver has allegedly rammed into five police cars after taking officers on a lengthy late-night chase through western Sydney after failing to stop for police on the Great Western Highway at about 12.15am on Saturday A chase ensued with officers eventually forming a roadblock with five police cars surrounding the truck driver near Greystanes Police allege the 45-year-old man crashed into several police cars with one vehicle pushed into a power pole from the impact of the collision the front windshield of the truck is smashed while the bonnet is completely crumpled on one side The man allegedly refused to cooperate with officers once he was cornered in the cabin of the truck and had to be tasered He was removed from the truck and assessed by paramedics before being taken to Westmead Hospital where he underwent a mental health assessment NSW Police said an Inspector was also assessed after the airbag in his police vehicle deployed during the crash.   'Five police cars were damaged, and an Inspector was assessed by NSW Ambulance Paramedics when the airbags in his vehicle were deployed when his vehicle hit a power pole,' police said in a statement.  'There were no other reports of injuries to police or other road users. 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No one seems to have shared their thoughts on this topic yetLeave a comment so your voice will be heard first. {{message}} Play Duration: 6 minutes 48 seconds6m Brought to you by The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW has deemed Greystanes resident Dolores Meilak's garden to be the best in the city. So what's her secret? Dolores joined Sarah Macdonald on ABC Radio Sydney Mornings to share her tips, and the glorious benefits that a vibrant garden brings to the community and local wildlife.  Dolores Meilak's garden took home the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW's top prize for the 2024 Sydney Spring Garden Competition.(Suppled: Dolores Meilak) Download the ABC listen app to text and call your favourite live radio For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link] We responded to over 150,000 incidents in 2023-24 The incidents displayed below are note-worthy incidents that have been published as media releases or tweets Details about incidents may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice North Parramatta | The fire at Dunlop Street, North Parramatta has been contained but is expected to smoulder through the morning. Because there may be smoke in the area, residents and businesses in the vicinity are advised to keep doors, windows, and vents closed. View on X [external link] Fire and Rescue NSW acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders One of Greystanes’s oldest homesteads has smashed the suburb record by $358,000 after it sold at auction for a life changing $2,608,000 A crowd of more than 100 people gathered to watch the auction at 158 Macquarie Rd which was catered for and included a guest appearance by a ‘town crier’ Bidding opened at $1.6m and moved slowly towards the vendor’s undisclosed reserve before accelerating beyond at breakneck speed MORE: Fire ravaged house smashes reserve by $100k $750k off price: most discounted Sydney homes revealed Four of the nine registered bidders battled for their chance to own a part of Greystanes’ history All of the parties were families who had been captivated by the property’s charm Alex and Lynne Noor pictured with their daughter Alice Vendors Alex and Lynne Noor were “in happy tears” according to the agent after having purchased the home 37 years ago for $140,000 Mr Noor said they had struggled to afford the repayments on their 17.5 per cent interest home loan at the time The massive profit equated to about $2.54m “It’s been bought by a very lovely family who are going to keep it as it is,” he said He said they had extended and restored the property over the years after it was purchased as a three bedroom weatherboard farmhouse The house is believed to have been built between 1908 and 1911 part of a 22 acre poultry farm and orchard at which time it was still a double block of land at 1,410sq m,” he said Selling agent Karen Beebar of LJ Hooker Greystanes said the house was extremely rare “It was one of the original homesteads of the area,” Ms Beebar said But this one has a lot of character and charm about it.” The six bedroom house is surrounded by manicured gardens and has two street frontages Some of its most appealing features include 10ft ceilings The auction was one of 854 scheduled for Sydney this week up 19 per year on year based on PropTrack data MORE: Cricket legend’s epic house flip ‘Ripped off their stuff’: NRL great’s reno with a difference Real Housewives star’s shock $30m upgrade One of the cheapest luxury homes in Sydney has hit the market with a full range of luxury inclusions normally seen in properties at the higher end of the prestige market The six bedroom and four bathroom property at 29 Beechwood Ave in Greystanes is one of a few available in the Beechwood Estate; a blue ribbon neighbourhood in the suburb Blaz Real Estate founder and agent Blaz Dejanovic has listed the property with a $2.7m price guide The Greystanes property is situated in a highly sought after pocket of the suburb Despite being far lower in price than many other luxury homes in Sydney ‘Casa de Amor’ is still tipped to break the suburb record for Greystanes “We’ve had about 41 groups through the two inspections so far and I think the property speaks for itself It’s a beautifully constructed Spanish-style villa that is unique to the area,” Mr Dejanovic said “The Beechwood Estate is one of the most sought after pockets in Greystanes We’re seeing a mixture of local buyers and people coming across Western Sydney It’s been unreal to see the interest it generated and I think it’s proof that the right house can attract the right buyer in a changing market.” The property has received over 40 groups in the two weekends on sale The Greystanes record is currently held by a property at 158 Macquarie Rd which sold in June last year for $2.6m the vendors of the property plan to downsize and focus their efforts on other developments in Western Sydney and investors coming to look at the luxury home – with a number of buyers particularly interested in the underground garage “A garage like that isn’t very common in this area Part of the appeal of this pocket is that it has no power lines over the property and enjoys a larger scale block “The property is filled with a lot of Spanish furniture and inclusions the vendors say it was built with love – hence the name.” Median prices in Greystanes have risen by 9.8 per cent over the past year with the average home costing $1.125m to purchase MORE: Five ugly duckling suburbs to target now Epic cribs of the nepo babies of Hollywood ‘Erotic venue’ offering ‘complete seduction’ up for auction A view of the back courtyard and the swimming pool An historic property built in the early 1900s has hit the market in Greystanes set for auction in the first week of June Brought to market by LJ Hooker Greystanes agent Karen Beebar, the six-bedroom and two-bathroom property at 158 Macquarie Rd sprawls across 1400sqm of land and is not heritage listed Ms Beebar said the property offers beautiful park-like gardens A photo of the Greystanes home (date unknown) “This is not the typical home for this area – it may even appeal to someone from the Inner West who loves the history and homes with a lot of charm,” Ms Beebar said “When I first went into the property my initial reaction was just ‘wow’ We just don’t have many character homes in Greystanes – it is a 50-year-old estate with 550 sqm block so to get something like this with all its charm and double the land size is very rare.” The property does not have a publically available price guide however median property prices in Greystanes range from $1,080,000 for houses to $690,000 for units MORE: Kyrgios scores super cool Sydney penthouse Next suburbs to join the $3 million property price club Spectacular country estate just an hour from Sydney Previous sales data obtained by The Daily Telegraph indicates that the property was last sold in September 1986 for $140,000 Features of the property include a main bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe custom timber kitchen with butler’s pantry and granite benchtops leading out to the entertaining quarters The Greystanes property is estimated to sell for $2m+ The home also includes two street frontages one with access to Hibiscus St to garage/storage for up to six cars “36 groups have been through the property so far many of them are locals who admired the character that this property has.” “None of the buyers who have expressed interest to me wish to knock it down all appreciate the history of the block and its close proximity to schools public transport and 25km drive to Sydney’s CBD.” The property is set to go under the hammer on the 4th June at 10:30am.MORE: “As you walk into Greystanes church, you’ll always get a good feeling. It’s a good place to be.” This is what Accounts Officer and parishioner of 30 years Sharon Finn believes Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes is truly about. Located seven kilometres west of the Parramatta CBD, the parish of Greystanes was originally part of the Wentworthville parish. The area where the church now stands was once a chicken farm owned by a member of the local Maltese community. In 1958, the first permanent school, which was run by the Carmelites, and Mass centre were erected, with Mass celebrated for the first time on Christmas Eve that year. In 1972, Greystanes became a separate parish, and the church building was blessed and opened by His Eminence James Cardinal Freeman, Archbishop of Sydney, on 20 April 1975. The parish was named Our Lady Queen of Peace in honour of the Maltese parishioners and their dedication to the Virgin Mary. After extensive renovations, the current church building was solemnly dedicated by Bishop Bede Heather on 7 July 1996. The church at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta. Fr Terry Duggan was the first parish priest of Greystanes in 1972 and was succeeded by Fr Roland Darmenia a year later. In 1975, Fr Brian Gallwey was parish priest until 1984, when Fr John Sweeney became parish priest until 1994. Fr Gerry Iverson led the parish through some turbulent years in the mid-1990s and was a stabilising presence between 1994 and 2010. Fr Bob Bossini was parish priest from 2011 to 2014, before being called to be Dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. The current parish priest, Fr Paul Marshall, joined Greystanes from St Anthony of Padua Parish, Toongabbie in September 2014, and is assisted by Fr Chukwunonyerem Akamadu and new addition to the parish team, Fr Joseph Lam from Brisbane. “When I was asked to move to Greystanes, there was a big shuffle around the diocese. I think they were looking for someone with a bit of experience because it’s a big parish. The need was here,” Fr Paul said. “Fr Chukwunonyerem brings a sense of joy to his ministry, he works closely with the Nigerian community and has a good relationship with the parishioners. “Fr Joe is only new here, but he brings a sense of enthusiasm, he has the ability to stir people into action and he has a solid academic background, so he’s very informed.” “We’re so fortunate that we do have the three priests and each of them have their giftedness and uniqueness that we can learn and grow from,” Sacramental Coordinator Narelle Khoury said. A large parish team work alongside the three priests and see themselves more as family than co-workers. “I can do quite a bit of my role at home, but I choose to come into the parish office for the camaraderie and the family atmosphere of the parish,” Sharon said. “I come from home to here feeling uplifted.” Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes parish staff (L-R) Receptionist Geraldine Ladley, Youth Coordinator Phil Grech, casual Administration Assistant Cheryl Percan, Accounts Officer Sharon Finn, Parish Manager Christine Van Arsdale, parish priest Fr Paul Marshall and Sacramental Coordinator Narelle Khoury. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta. “I find that the parish is my second home. I’m never leaving,” casual Administration Assistant Cheryl Percan adds with a laugh. “There’s a lot of kindness working with the three priests. They see us as not just employees. Fr Paul understands that we all have our own families, and he supports us,” Receptionist Geraldine Ladley said. “I’ve been really grateful for all members of the parish team,” Fr Paul said. “Every day of my four years here at Greystanes has been a great experience. It’s been a great team of people. On a given weekend, Our Lady Queen of Peace has around 1600 people attend its five weekend Masses – Saturday Vigil 6pm and Sunday 7am, 8.30am, 10am and a 6pm Youth Mass. What was once a predominantly Maltese community, the ethnic diversity of Our Lady Queen of Peace has changed to include parishioners from more than 40 nationalities. A statue dedicated to Our Lady Queen of Peace inside the church at Greystanes. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta. The site of Our Lady, Queen of Peace parish is large enough to feature Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary School, St Paul’s Catholic College and Our Lady Queen of Peace preschool on the one property. “We’re working with the principals of the schools to look at the precinct as a whole and seeing it as a learning and faith environment, so we’re not just the schools and the parish,” said Fr Paul. “One of the challenges I see in my ministry is trying to connect with the schools and getting their support on a larger scale,” Youth Coordinator Phil Grech explained. “We have a few students who are members of our youth groups, but I feel there is that separation. “I feel we can build so much more because they’re on our doorstep.” When asked about what the best part of the parish was, Fr Paul and members of the parish team said the parishioners and the sense of community at Greystanes. “It’s like a big family,” Sharon answered. “I feel that our church has a welcoming environment. When you come to church, there are greeters outside. The layout of the church is pleasant and comfortable, and I think that makes people feel more at home.” “When I joined Greystanes a few years ago, I felt that the parishioners do welcome you and make you feel at home. There’s a strong sense of faith in the precinct and a lot of people are strong in their faith and they pass that on to you,” new Parish Manager Christine Van Arsdale explained. “The people are generous in their time and in their talents and in their charity,” Narelle adds. “It is an extremely generous community when there is any call for a need – it always has been from the very beginning of the parish through to today,” Pastoral Associate and Liturgy Coordinator Ana Pintos said. This sense of generosity and welcome is reflected in the 37 ministries that are active in the parish, split into three different areas. The parish has a large number of readers, commentators, acolytes and servers and four different choirs. There are devotion groups including the Legion of Mary, The Catholic Guy Ministry and the Emmaus Prayer Community. Parishioners at Greystanes are also involved in outreach programs including the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Greystanes Maltese Seniors Group and the Social Justice Group. A view of the altar in the church at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta. Our Lady Queen of Peace acknowledges that it has had some difficult and troubling times in the past, but as a community they have emerged stronger. “There was a lot of pain from past abuse in the parish 20 years ago,” Fr Paul reflected. “However, a few years ago, when Fr Matt [Digges] was here, we had listening forums for people who may have been affected by this abuse. Although this was 20 years down the track, the three listening forums surfaced a lot of underlying feelings. “I wouldn’t say that it was ground-breaking, but it gave a forum for people down the track to articulate their experiences and hurt and it wasn’t just people who were affected directly, but indirectly also.” “I think the most important thing about the parish is that it has hung in there and it’s expanded and grown. It’s involved in new processes and is forward-looking,” Sharon surmised. Looking to the future, members of the parish team hoped that the community continues to grow in the likeness of Christ, as their parish vision declares. “The introduction of The Catholic Guy Ministry and Alpha Programs in the parish has changed the way we see church – it’s not just about coming to Mass. The Catholic Guy and Alpha programs have helped parishioners develop a thirst for leadership and is laying the foundation for bigger achievements in the parish,” Fr Paul said. Later this year, the parish plans to run the Alpha program in some grades at St Paul’s Catholic College and invite parents to participate in the adult Alpha program. “Our parish has a leadership team that works with the parish priests that guides and nurtures people so that they’re not completely reliant on the one person [the priest],” Sharon said. Christine added, “our parish renewal program aims to grow and nurture people to become leaders. I might be in this position, but it’s not my position forever, it’s for me to nurture and to teach somebody else so that I can move on in my faith journey.” “It’s a form of succession planning,” Fr Paul adds. “What can we do now that will transform roles and structures to make them more fruitful for the future?” “I hope to build up the youth in the parish,” Phil said. “I want to turn this new wave of youth coming to our parish into our new young adults, and I want our young adults to have somewhere they can call home.” “My hope is that the parish team leads by example to be the church of the future in answering the Spirit’s call,” Ana said. “Our parish priest has a vision of moving us from a maintenance church to one of a missionary church,” Narelle explained. “We need to get out of our comfort zones and to carry out what we are called to do by our baptismal calling. “We’re excited to be on this journey with our fellow colleagues, parishioners and our clergy.” there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by gathering your friends and family together to check out the many amazing light displays across the region residents in Parramatta and Cumberland have truly gone above and beyond with their impressive light displays to help make your search for the best Christmas lights around town even easier Parra News has compiled a list of some of the best local displays that are sure to wow even Santa Claus himself this December 25 Andy Catajar and his wife Carmen have been bringing Christmas cheer to Northmead with their brilliant display of lights and decorations Decked out with Christmas ornaments and plenty of dazzling lights people are expected to come far and wide to check out the Northmead house – definitely not one to miss It would be impossible to do a list on the best places to see Christmas lights in the local area and not mention the residents who live on Cumberland Road the neighbours continue to wow with their spectacular decorations The street officially turned on their lights last Friday much to the joy of the many locals who visited Cumberland Road in search of Christmas displays Greystanes resident and ‘queen of Christmas’ Dolores Meilak has again put up her magnificent display so be prepared to be amazed by the dazzling lights that cover her home at 72 Cumberland Road make sure to go around the corner to Old Prospect Road in Greystanes where there are plenty of great displays to look out for The residents at this home have been decorating the property for a whopping 19 years now expect to see an impressive 2000 lights just on the roof alone plus a nativity scene and loads of inflatables 25 Ringrose Avenue always goes above and beyond with its impressive Christmas display This time around there will be music playing Christmas statues and even a snow machine – so make sure to add it to your list of must-see houses to check out Every year the decorations tell a different story with this year’s theme being the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy Sydney without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Sydney If you were wondering where superheroes spend their weekends then you haven’t been to the Greystanes lately Out the back of this vast suburban pub you’re liable to bump into child-sized versions of Iron Man dressed up for birthday parties that are held on the lengthy tables in the covered open-air space apart from super-cheap kids’ meals and clusters of balloons on each table provided free and pre-inflated for every booked birthday function fenced-off playgrounds where the little people can cavort safely while the bigger ones take a breather over schooners of quotidian beer or bottles of vino that all stay prudently under $28 The little tackers can lose themselves inside the colourful five-storey play maze next to a slippery slide a kind of spinning donut covered at any given moment by a gaggle of giddy squealers and an elaborate flying fox that propels the brave-hearted on a ten-metre flight over an ocean of bark chips they’ve even got a jumping castle installed (weather permitting) There’s also a dedicated ice-cream counter and a large stable of high chairs – at this rate the place might have to start advertising itself as ‘adult friendly’ Peer past the bistro counter to discover an enormous sports bar/TAB with more data-displaying screens than NASA and a smattering of grim punters who don’t seem to have vacated their seats since the late 1980s The pub fare here is perfectly respectable with pasta and pizza as well as the usual schnitties and steaks If you’re flying child-free then there’s a beer garden out front where you can smoke; a cosy lounge bar with a wood-fired heater; covers bands playing on Friday and Saturday nights; and a motel for customers who push it too hard – $99 lets you bed down for the night The former Greystanes Inn is a pub that is used to being all things to all people and it’s clearly getting a caning on Time Out’s visit that famous flying fox was out of action due to a busted seat The manager assures us it’ll be fixed ASAP no doubt in time for their annual spring charity event There’s no better reason for little Avengers to assemble in the whole of western Sydney Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! twitterinstagrampinterestAbout us Contact us Investment firm Pariter is partnering up for its next golf club development in Sydney this time for a 250-apartment-plus-aged-care facility at Greystanes The Cumberland Golf Club development would upgrade the clubhouse and 18-hole course alongside the seniors development at 246-248 Old Prospect Road The company is a subsidiary of Plenary Group a global infrastructure investor and developer responsible for the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre UNSW Health Translation Hub and the Toowoomba Bypass among other projects Its residential development arm signed a deal with Cumberland Golf Club in June The seniors housing element would be developed on the northern 3.8ha of the 38ha site as designed by Marchese Partners and Life3A The ageing club facilities were in need of significant investment according to the Ethos Urban planning report while the existing club facilities were built in the 1960s “The original and preliminary design scheme contained a mix of two to four-storey seniors buildings and clubhouse,” the planning report said “Modifications to the scheme have been guided by strong feedback from the state government’s design review panel “[This includes] the advice to retain as many of the Cumberland Plain Woodland trees as possible increase the setbacks from neighbouring properties and reduce the building footprints “The revised design scheme thus contains taller buildings with smaller footprints to allow for the retention of significant trees.” Pariter is also working on the Chatswood Golf Club development to create 106 independent living units a similar development is in the works with Mingara Leisure Group The Sydney auction scene is seeing fierce competition Blood pressures were up and emotions ran high across Sydney’s auction scene competition has ramped up across the Harbour City with plenty of buyers vying for quality homes and the odd bargain Many of the fieriest auctions came out of greater Western Sydney on Saturday A family’s long-term dream come to fruition following the emotional auction of the first home they bought 17 years ago in Greystanes waited nervously in the garage as they listened to auctioneer Michael Garofolo drop the hammer on their home on Gerald St Cooley auctioneer Michael Garofolo at the auction of 53 Gerald St Sellers (-LR) Sime and Suzana Frleta withy daughters Oliva and Monika were thrilled with their result in Greystanes Rich spent over $1b on 15 homes this year The $1.201 million sale came after a fiercely contested auction with 18 registered bidders and an opening bid of $900,000 with at least six active bidders eventually taking increments down to just $500 Mr Frleta said they were overjoyed and emotional about the result which is the final step toward their dream of buying a larger home in Haberfield He said they were also thrilled to learn they had sold their first home to a couple who were first home buyers and planned to live there “My heart is beating so fast,” Mr Frleta said We moved here in 2006 just before we married “Around that time we had the idea of eventually living in a federation style home in Haberfield.” There was a big crowd at the Greystanes auction The Frleta’s have already bought their dream home and will live there with Mr Frleta’s father who recently sold his house in St Johns Park The couple said they never expected to eventually sell for such a high price after paying $365,000 in 2006 said the home was one of the “best priced” in not only Greystanes “The southwest region is well priced for first home buyers ready to move in,” he said “This is a great result and indicative of the market here.” said the campaign for the home had been strong with 180 groups through and 58 contracts issued “We had everyone from first home buyers to investors Down the road in Constitution Hill a massive crowd gathered for a fast and furious auction of a deceased estate Constitution Hill was a hotly contested auction Alan Joyce’s unused mansion has $20m guide The vacant home at 12 Boonah St sold for $1.2 million – $280,000 above reserve – with 18 registered bidders and eight active throughout Prices went up in increments of $10,000 after an opening bid of $850,000 however the eventual buyer made it known he was a contender throughout the auction with a $90,000 bid Agent Matthew Lucas of LJ Hooker Blacktown said it was an amazing result with only two houses on the market in Constitution Hill over the past month The auction of another deceased estate attracted a huge crowd of more than 100 people in Winston Hills A huge crowd attended the auction of 9 Bellotti Ave The house, at 9 Bellotti Ave sold to a young Parramatta couple for $1.640 million with six active bidders vying for the four bedroom home Ray White Baulkham Hills agent Darren Dowd took more than 200 groups through the deceased estate during its auction campaign it’s a bittersweet day for the three sons whose parents built the house in 1971 and they all grew up there happy tears as it’s the end of an era for their family,” he said “Stock is still very tight but I have been running auctions for 22 years There were also 19 bidders vying for a four-bedroom house at 7 James Green Close, Kellyville Ray White Quakers Hill principal Josh Tesolin sold the property for $1.640 million Ray White NSW state auctioneer Perry Edmondson-Clark said sellers who are deciding to come to the market now were continuing to be rewarded for their decision “We saw another strong weekend of results across the Sydney market today with supply remaining low in buyer activity remaining incredibly high,” he said “Our clearance rate and bidder data continue to show the market is performing incredibly strongly week in week out “We’re seeing results well above the owner’s expectations at auction.” gilded statue of Mother Mary is processed around the church the crowd turns sombre as the priest leads them in a decade of the Rosary This procession forms part of the annual Festa tal-Vitorja at Our Lady Queen of Peace (OLQP) Parish Queen of Peace and the rich Maltese culture of the local community The procession of the statue of Mary Queen of Peace during the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa Image: Christina Buhagiar/OLQP Festa/Supplied “[Festa] means trying to keep our Maltese heritage alive I feel like we are losing who we are as Maltese and this means the world to me to keep our heritage the Maltese traditions alive,” OLQP Festa Committee Assistant Festa Organiser and parishioner Julie Piscopo told Catholic Outlook View images from the annual Festa tal-Vitorja here or below was the principal celebrant for the Festa Mass on Sunday 29 September 2019 with prayers and songs recited in English and Maltese Concelebrants included parish priest Fr Paul Marshall assistant priests Fr Joseph Lam and Fr Chinonye Akamadu and Fr Tarcisio Micallef chaplain to the Maltese Catholic Community in the Archdiocese of Sydney Fr Chinonye Akamadu and Fr Tarcisio Micallef during the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa NSW State Member for Prospect and Lawrence Buhagiar the Consul General of Malta to NSW were also in attendance Fr Paul welcomed those who made the celebration “a truly holy dynamic demonstration of God’s love among us,” including the presiding priests altar servers and the various community groups of the parish Bishop Vincent said that the Festa is “one of the most significant feasts for Maltese Catholics” and how through the Gospel reading of the Annunciation (Mt 1:18-25) we are called to be ready for “divine interruptions” and say yes to God RELATED: Read Bishop Vincent’s Homily from the Festa tal-Vitorja Bishop Vincent Long celebrates Mass during the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa “The Word of God today is a summons to us to live our lives with radical openness to God’s will that is revealed to us in so many ways we need to be ready for divine interruptions; we need to adjust to life’s constant changes Growth and transformation can occur if we learn to discern and act on what God requires of us in the light of lived experience She aligned her heart and mind to God’s unfolding plan We must do the same as a community of disciples We must have the humility and courage to see how far we have drifted from the vision of Jesus repent of our institutional arrogance and orientate ourselves once again to the self-emptying journey of the humble Servant-Leader “Let us pray that we have the faith and courage of Mary in responding to unexpected events and interruptions that come our way “May we learn to live in vulnerable trust instead of holding on old patterns May our Yes be total and unreserved as we endeavour to carry out the plan God has us as individuals and as the Church,” Bishop Vincent said OLQP Festa Committee President Lisa Bright gives her presidential address during the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa said that the Festa is a “unique opportunity within our community” and it “brings together faith culture and community in a refreshed and exciting way while honouring that which has gone before us you will see more displays and information celebrating the richness of the Maltese culture Because if we don’t celebrate it and share it with younger generations We can’t wait for other people to do something about it “I thank the Festa Committee who have said yes in different ways to respond to the signs of the times as we grow the Festa many people from our community who have assisted in setting up the Festa decorations prepared food for events and assisted in so many areas behind the scenes This contribution truly makes the Festa a parish event we will see many communities of the parish represented – again bringing us all together – unity in our diversity,” Lisa said the statue of Our Lady was processed around the grounds of the parish before the festivities began Community bands play during the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa Community bands including the OLQP Maltese Band the OLQP Primary School Band and the Maltese Cultural Association of NSW Choir performed to the crowds throughout the evening Traditional Maltese food and sweets were available as well as market stalls selling items that celebrated Maltese culture and heritage The festivities concluded with a large fireworks display on the grounds and all I can say is I’m more than happy today to celebrate the feast day,” OLQP Festa Committee Member and parishioner Charles Mifsud told Catholic Outlook with a quiver in his voice “I hope that this will carry on with the younger generation and we want the younger generation to come in and take over from us,” Charles said Young members of the Maltese community at the Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes Maltese Festa Parishioner Jacob Grech is hopeful that the Festa “[is] trying to get the rest of the community to join us so we’re trying to make it more cultural and bringing the communities together.” through the Intercession of Mary our Mother to invite the wider Greystanes community into this celebration and to celebrate culture we can continue to grow as a community in the likeness of Christ,” Lisa said In comments made to the NSW Legislative Assembly on Tuesday Hugh McDermott said that the Maltese Festa was “a wonderful community event not only for our Maltese community but for the thousands of local residents who attend ever year.” “I thank Lisa Bright and the festa committee for all their hard work in organising a terrific day and for sharing their culture with the entire Western Sydney community,” he said On Sunday 5 June, the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) celebrated the Feast of Pentecost, the Birthday of the Church. It was an inspiring and faith-filled experience with many attending from across Sydney and beyond. Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes, has for many years been the home for this annual celebration until COVID sent us into a two-year break. Prior to the start of the celebration, volunteers from Prayer Groups and Communities, greeters, readers, and others gathered in prayer that the Holy Spirit would fall afresh on each and every person present. The Church was alive with expectation as the gathering commenced with a time of Prayer and Praise led by the “United in Love Group Ministry”. At the commencement of Mass, the celebrants were introduced by Anne Marie Gattenby, chairperson of the NSW Catholic Charismatic Renewal: Fr Brian Steele MGL, the Sydney CCR Chaplain, Fr Hugh Thomas CssR and Fr Clifford D’Souza, representing the OLQP parish community. Fr Brian, the main celebrant, recalled in the Penitential Rite how Jesus addressed those who had doubts and were unbelievers, as he did with Thomas, the Apostle saying, “Doubt no longer but believe.” This word of encouragement permeated the Eucharistic Celebration. He also noted the Gospel reference to be John 20:22 – this very year! He reminded us of how Jesus is calling us “to receive the Holy Spirit” and how in Scripture we read of “breath” and “ruah” (Hebrew), while in Genesis 1:2 the “breath” and “wind” of God hovering and breathing over the chaos of darkness, speaks light…. and light comes. God speaks light and breath into the chaos and the darkness in people’s lives. In Genesis 2:7, God breathed into man’s nostrils and man became a living being. Is God breathing into your nostrils, speaking life into you so that you become alive and full of life in the Spirit, asked Fr Brian. Again, In Ezekiel. 37:5-14, God breathes life into dry bones bringing them to life. Is He doing the same with our dry bones? Then, finally, in John 20:19-23 Jesus invites his disciples to receive the Holy Spirit as he breathes on them…. “Doubt no longer but believe!” At the conclusion of Mass, Fr Brian carried the Blessed Sacrament through the Church blessing each and all present. Jesus was surely “breathing” upon them, ministering in a powerfully anointed and personal way, his healing and renewing love that each may no longer doubt, but believe. This was followed by Prayer Ministry and the day concluded with Benediction. Sr Margaret Scully and Neville Fernandes are part of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal community. A Maltese-Australian Tiktok horror drama series inspired by Maltese mythology and the migrant experience is drawing an average of around 25,000 views per episode. Ryan Cauchi, the creator of Greystanes, is an Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards nominee based in Western Sydney Australia. He is also the proud son of two Maltese migrants. The series, which is found exclusively on Tiktok, is made up of 15 one-minute episodes and is set and filmed in the town of Greystanes. Cauchi chose Greystanes because it is a stronghold for the Maltese community and is also where his father grew up. Australia has the largest Maltese diaspora in the world – about 200,000 people, according to a 2021 Census. But Cauchi believes Malta’s culture and story have rarely been reflected in films and TV. I would love to come to Malta not just as a lover of the island’s contributions to film but just to see it- Ryan Cauchi “I wanted to highlight the Maltese culture and give the community a chance to feel represented,” said Cauchi. Set in 1995, Greystanes tells the story of 11-year-old Samantha and her older brother Marius. While visiting their Maltese grandmother during school holidays, the siblings discover a dark family secret and encounter il-Ħaddiela, an evil figure from Maltese mythology. With their grandmother leading the way, the family must come together to fight the creature − and its curse. Il-Ħaddiela is the Maltese mythology figure associated with sleep paralysis. Cauchi encountered Il-Ħaddiela for the first time 10 years ago when he read Stephen Mifsud’s book on Maltese Bestiary. “When I read the book, it was like all the pieces came together and I could see this story building in front of my eyes,” said Cauchi. The series has been compared to the popular Netflix series Stranger Things but Cauchi said he was inspired by his childhood in the 1990s and the films he grew up watching like Stephen King’s It or Stephen Spielberg’s E.T. The series features AACTA-nominated actor Frances Duca. Even though Cauchi is proud of his roots he has never visited Malta. He reminisced about how, during his childhood, his grandfather would excitedly point out when a film, such as Popeye, was shot in Malta.  “I would love to come to Malta not just as a lover of the island’s contributions to film but just to see it.” Moving forward, Cauchi plans on continuing his Maltese association in film and would also be interested in filming in Malta. To view comments, please register for free or log in to your account. An artist’s impression of Dexus’ proposed $420m industrial project at Greystanes in western Sydney. Ownership of a series of industrial properties controlled by Dexus could be shaken up as the National Pension Service of Korea tests market interest for a stake in an almost $1bn fund managed by the local group. Industrial portfolios have been among the signature trades over recent years and a transaction would show the strength of values in the area where demand for space is still running hot. Big deals in recent years include Asian warehouse giant ESR buying the Milestone portfolio for $3.8bn and the Fife Capital portfolio trading in an $850m deal to PGIM and Manulife. In late 2021, US group Blackstone also inked a $2.1bn deal to buy a half share in another prime logistics portfolio run by Dexus, the Dexus Australian Logistics Trust. It bought that from Asian sovereign fund GIC. Dexus set up the vehicle in which NPS is invested – the Australian Industrial Partnership – more than a decade ago and it has since grown to become one of the most successful vehicles in the area, where rapidly rising rents are offsetting the impact of higher capitalisation rates. The Australian Industrial Partnership is a joint venture between the offshore fund and the Dexus Australian Logistics Trust, which is 50 per cent owned by Dexus and 50 per cent by US group Blackstone. While NPS is testing interest in its stake, a pre-emptive arrangement means Dexus’ funds management business has the right to purchase the portfolio owned by the offshore group, which would see their interest in the partnership remain on the Dexus platform, and the local group staying on as the investment manager and asset manager. The stake being offered represents 50 per cent of a super prime portfolio of 20 assets located in two large scale, institutional-grade industrial precincts. They are Quarry East at Greystanes in western Sydney and the Dexus Industrial Estate in Truganina in west Melbourne. The portfolio has been developed out by Dexus to 20 properties across about 340,000sq metres of high quality logistics space. The assets are fully occupied with a weighted average expiry of 3.8 years which provides the opportunity for rental reversion. Dexus in 2012 unveiled the joint venture transaction with the NPS, advised by real estate investment manager Heitman, and oversaw its dramatic growth. The initial portfolio, valued at $360m, included 50 per cent ownership of 13 industrial properties at three Dexus industrial estates; Quarry in Greystanes, NSW, and two Melbourne assets – Laverton Industrial Estate and the Target facility at Altona. The venture was billed as the start of a long-term capital partnership between the company and one of the world’s largest pension funds. Dexus, which has since become one of the largest real assets managers in the country via the purchase of the Collimate Capital platform, declined to comment. realcommercial.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. An artist’s impression of Dexus’ proposed $420m industrial project at Greystanes in western Sydney Ownership of a series of industrial properties controlled by Dexus could be shaken up as the National Pension Service of Korea tests market interest for a stake in an almost $1bn fund managed by the local group Industrial portfolios have been among the signature trades over recent years and a transaction would show the strength of values in the area where demand for space is still running hot Big deals in recent years include Asian warehouse giant ESR buying the Milestone portfolio for $3.8bn and the Fife Capital portfolio trading in an $850m deal to PGIM and Manulife US group Blackstone also inked a $2.1bn deal to buy a half share in another prime logistics portfolio run by Dexus It bought that from Asian sovereign fund GIC Dexus set up the vehicle in which NPS is invested – the Australian Industrial Partnership – more than a decade ago and it has since grown to become one of the most successful vehicles in the area where rapidly rising rents are offsetting the impact of higher capitalisation rates The Australian Industrial Partnership is a joint venture between the offshore fund and the Dexus Australian Logistics Trust which is 50 per cent owned by Dexus and 50 per cent by US group Blackstone While NPS is testing interest in its stake a pre-emptive arrangement means Dexus’ funds management business has the right to purchase the portfolio owned by the offshore group which would see their interest in the partnership remain on the Dexus platform and the local group staying on as the investment manager and asset manager The stake being offered represents 50 per cent of a super prime portfolio of 20 assets located in two large scale They are Quarry East at Greystanes in western Sydney and the Dexus Industrial Estate in Truganina in west Melbourne The portfolio has been developed out by Dexus to 20 properties across about 340,000sq metres of high quality logistics space The assets are fully occupied with a weighted average expiry of 3.8 years which provides the opportunity for rental reversion Dexus in 2012 unveiled the joint venture transaction with the NPS advised by real estate investment manager Heitman included 50 per cent ownership of 13 industrial properties at three Dexus industrial estates; Quarry in Greystanes and two Melbourne assets – Laverton Industrial Estate and the Target facility at Altona The venture was billed as the start of a long-term capital partnership between the company and one of the world’s largest pension funds which has since become one of the largest real assets managers in the country via the purchase of the Collimate Capital platform the sun was shining and the grounds of Our Lady were abuzz with preparation for the 58th year of the OLQP Festa friends and family grounded in the traditions of the Maltese feasts from the island of Malta in the Mediterranean As Greystanes has grown into a multi-cultural community inviting all people from the local community and beyond to the celebration of Our Lady Devotees are seen during Mass as part of the Maltese Festa at Our Lady Over 4000 people experienced the Festa throughout the day The congregation was in full voice at the Festa Mass at 2pm celebrated by Parish Priest Fr Paul Roberts concelebrated by Assistant Priests Fr Jack Elkazzi and Fr Jobi Payyappilly People of all generations and all cultural backgrounds joined in the procession and continued to give thanks to Our Lady throughout the evening as the statue of Mary stood at the heart of the Parish grounds The statue is a replica of the Our Lady of Victories statue in Xaghra The statue arrived in Greystanes in 1965 from Italy after being commissioned by a band of Maltese immigrants hoping to share their faith and culture within the new parish community of Greystanes Devotees carry the statue of Our Lady of Victories during the Maltese Festa at Our Lady The afternoon celebrations continued with the musical performances of the Maltese Concert Band NSW the G-sus Youth Band of the Parish entertained the crowds with a variety of songs with the grounds spontaneously turning into a dancefloor showcasing the many dancing gifts of attendees Festa attendees shared how much they enjoyed the evening via social media posts commenting on how much fun was had and how great it was to see the Festa engage a whole new generation to keep the Festa tradition alive in the community Julie Piscopo recognised in her message two pioneers of the Greystanes community and Festa – Joe Spiteri and Frank Cefai – who both had passed away during the year She honoured their stories and contribution to the community and encouraged all to listen and share the stories of the past to take these wonderful traditions and learnings into our future An intergenerational family is see in front of the statue of Our Lady of Victories during the Maltese Festa at Our Lady Festa also coincided with the World Day of Migrants and Refugees which was honoured in the Festa Mass remembering that the foundations of the Greystanes community was on the back of Maltese immigrants with the invitation to think how we can walk with people who are newly-arrived in our communities Here’s to the most important of the enduring foundations of life and faith being lived with freshness for today And here’s also to the new practices and priorities that reflect a people of faith keen to keep listening for the call of God in our time.” Visit the OLQP Festa Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/olqp.festa to enjoy highlights of the day Jetti Correia and Kayla Pace bought a duplex in Revesby Heights because they liked the family-friendly vibe affordable houses in areas with good schools should buy in a band of suburbs in Sydney’s south and outer southwest Suburbs ranked as offering the best lifestyle for families were Revesby Heights Other top areas for families included Wakeley along with Engadine in the Sutherland Shire and Greystanes The closest suburb to the CBD included in the ranking was Turrella These suburbs offered a mix of affordability the Finder.com.au best suburbs report revealed Prices in each of the suburbs were below $1 million crime rates were among the lowest in the Greater Sydney area and each area was within 30km of the CBD Many of the homes in Revesby Heights and Padstow Heights look over water and bushland Other factors used to determine the best family suburbs were the proportion of other families living there the size of the local population and mortgage stress levels The proportion of renters to homeowners was also considered with homeowners tending to take better care of their properties than renters Finder insights manager Graham Cooke said suburbs in Sydney’s south and southwest could become more appealing given growing work-from-home arrangements “Lockdown proved to many businesses that remote working is a possibility,” Mr Cooke said “(Locations) that are near but not in the heart of the CBD offer young Aussies a more relaxed way of life — perfect for those looking to raise a family.” Greystanes is a medium density area surrounded by much higher-density suburbs One of the most often overlooked suburbs ideal for families was Turrella The suburb has a median house price of $980,000 and is the cheapest suburb within a 10km radius of the CBD — although it is less than 5km from Sydney Airport “Turrella is an inner Sydney hidden gem,” Mr Cooke said “It’s a quiet and family-friendly suburb that’s only minutes away from the hustle and bustle.” Sutherland Shire enclave Engadine offered families extra space without needing to leave the Greater Sydney area “It’s perfect for those wanting to make a treechange without compromising on facilities,” Mr Cooke said “The big bush blocks and proximity to some of Sydney’s best beaches makes it a no-brainer move for some Aussie families.” LJ Hooker-Padstow principal Lush Pillay said larger houses on generous blocks were the appeal for buyers who came to the Revesby-Padstow Heights area “We get a lot of interest from families,” he said good train connections and you get a bit more value out here Kayla Pace and Jetti Correia recently bought a duplex in Revesby Heights and said it would be a good place to raise a family “It’s close to everything but there’s an isolated feel we liked,” Ms Pace said We got more rooms and a double garage … we didn’t get as much in others suburbs we looked in.” Jetti Correia and Kayla Pace said they got more space in Revesby Heights Greystanes native and director of Starr Partners real estate agency Daniel Starr said the suburb was a “little oasis” in a region dominated by high-rise apartments “Most properties are houses and the smallest blocks are still 550 sqm,” Mr Starr said adding people he grew up with were returning to the suburb after they had children “to get space” Leura over the long weekend (October 1-3) in association with the Leura Gardens Festival Free car parking and bathroom facilities are offered for wheelchair users about 30 young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints volunteered to help tidy up the garden The volunteers from nine different countries were helping prepare the accessible garden for the open garden days For the past several years the young missionaries have given up their time to help clean up the gardens of Grose Street and Greystanes Disability Services community living homes “It is wonderful to have so many energetic people working in the garden helping make it a beautiful space for the people Greystanes supports to engage in their daily activities,” said Vanessa Balfour community engagement co-ordinator with Greystanes is so dedicated to the accessible garden that he helped sell sausages outside Katoomba Woolworths in order to raise money to buy new plants The garden will be open from October 1-3. Entry fee is a donation and is not included in the Leura Gardens Festival tickets Relax from the busy crowds or stop for a picnic Lily’s Pad Café at Leura will be serving Morgan’s coffee Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date We care about the protection of your data. 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