Richmond. Possible RAAF base expansion

The federal government has identified five options for a second Sydney airport as it steps up efforts to meet its deadline for announcing a site by the middle of next year, The Sydney Morning Herald understands the committee set up to conduct the review has not yet narrowed down sites, leaving open the possible expansion of the Richmond Air Base, the RAAF base at Williamtown or new facilities on the central coast or closer to Canberra.

Region. MOU between UNE and UWS

The University of New England will sign memoranda of understanding, on October 5, with the universities of Sydney and Western Sydney, as well as TAFE NSW, as it looks to develop new student markets and collaborate with other institutions amid and increasingly competitive higher education scene, according to The Australian Financial Review. The agreement with UWS will see UNE act as the primary distance provider got UWS students.

Blacktown. Councillors query $80m investment

Blacktown councillors were at odds over the merits of the $80 million Wet 'n' Wild theme park proposed for Prospect. While some welcomed it as an important investment for Blacktown, others raised concerns about its location, its use of water and its economic viability. The fact the council has yet to be consulted over the project was also a major concern for many councillors. Councillors noted that the land proposed for the theme park was owned by the state government and that it would ultimately have no say over any decision.

Rooty Hill. Club saves on electricity

A wake-up call from Integral Energy three years ago was the catalyst behind Rooty Hill RSL Club's environmentally-conscious switch. It became the first club in Australia to be powered by a tri-generation plant. The club spent $4.5 million on its installation "We'll save $620,000 each year in electricity costs so the plant will pay for itself within seven years,” said club CEO. Richard Errington.

Norwest. Real opportunity for mature workers

Real Insurance, at the Norwest Business Park, is making a difference to client services by employing older workers to properly reflect their client base. “From a company perspective you need a blend of employees,” said CEO, Clive Mendes. The company has 220 staff at its Norwest base and is recruiting more. He said the company welcomed people over 55 who wanted to get back into the workforce. “I personally value the experience mature workers bring us and the example they set the younger employees,” Mr Mendes said.