Parramatta. First Liberal lord mayor

Tony Issa, who has been a councillor on Parramatta City Council for 21 years, has been elected the first Liberal lord mayor of the city. His deputy is Cr Paul Garrard (Independent). The voting was 9 to 6 in both instances, with the three Independents voting with the six Liberal councillors. Cr Issa wants Parramatta to be regarded as a “business city”.

Penrith. Hospital has new $2.1 million unit

Nepean Hospital has a new $2.1 million medical assessment unit which will deliver improved health services for seniors and people with chronic diseases and reduce the pressure on the emergency department. The unit is staffed by up to 30 specialist doctors, nurses and allied health professionals who will be able to offer the patient individual assessment and treatment earlier than was previously possible.

Region. Harold Mitchell honoured

The University of Western Sydney has presented Harold Mitchell, AO, with an Honorary Fellowship. Mr Mitchell is executive chairman, of Mitchell Communication Group, Australia's largest planner and buyer of advertising. He is a non-executive director on the board of TVS (Television Sydney), of which UWS is a key strategic partner and financial supporter. "Harold has served the university in a strategic and beneficial way through his support and involvement with TVS. His assistance was crucial to the development of a sustainable future for TVS. He has also given guidance and support to the University's Communication Arts teaching program," UWS vice-chancellor, Professor Janice Reid, said.

Region. UWS revenue stream

The University of Western Sydney (UWS), plans to sell or redevelop about 10 per cent of its 1700-hectare property portfolio, covering six campuses in the region, over the next decade, in the hope of rasing $100 million, according to The Australian Financial Review. UWS, which has plans to sell about 90 hectares at its Campbelltown campus, has partnered with Lend Lease for the $250 million redevelopment of its Westmead campus, which will include residential and retail development.

Sydney Olympic Park. New licensed facilities

The Sydney Olympic Park Authority has requested detailed proposals for the development of a licensed premises site to meet growing demand for a pub and restaurant facility in the developing town centre. Sydney Olympic Park supports over 60 organisations and more than 6000 workers. It hosts over 45000 events annually and received more than 8.5 million visitors annually. More than $1 billion has been invested in the precinct since 2000, and more than $276 million have been committed in the past 18 months.

Region. South west rail link stations

The Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation has called for registrations of interest from contracting organisations in undertaking the role of design and construct contractor for the Edmondson Park and Leppington stations for the South West Rail Link.