Region. EOI in bookstores

Ferrier Hodgson has called for expressions of interest for the Borders, Angus & Robertson stores and other Australia-based businesses owned by REDgroup Retail Ltd, which is in voluntary administration. The company, which had bookstores across Western Sydney, has closed its Borders outlet, in Rouse Hill, and the Angus & Robertson store, in Liverpool.

Bass Hill. Hotel group buys 20 hotels

The Laundy Hotel Group, based at Bass Hill, is planning to buy 20 pubs, mainly in NSW, from the Recape Property Fund and National Leisure Group, in a deal worth more than $300 million, according to The Australian Financial Review. The move will lift the Laundy Hotel Group to a portfolio of 60 hotels.

Bankstown. Pick up in bulky goods sector

CBRE’s Bulky Goods senior negotiator, Shane Cook, said while it was too early in the year to call a complete rebound in the bulky goods sector, there were signs of improving fundamentals: “Within the first few months of 2011, there has been a significant uptake of existing stock,” He said a prime example was the Home Focus Bankstown centre which was bought during the GFC by a private investor. The centre had a poor lease expiry profile and multiple vacancies, however, in early 2011, four lease deals and a number of lease renewals resulted in an almost fully leased centre, indicating solid demand for existing premises. “Over the next three years, 17 major projects are forecast with these big box retailers set to drive the majority of new developments, accounting for over 109,000 square metres of planned projects,” he said

Region. "Women of the West'

The University of Western Sydney has celebrated the global centenary year of International Women's Day by announcing the winners of its 'Women of the West' and 'Young Women of the West' awards. Dr Helen Somerville, a paediatric doctor with the Western Local Health Network and Allawah Children's Hospital, was awarded the 'Woman of the West' award for her commitment to the care of people with disabilities. Najeeba Wazefadost, of Granville, an Afghan youth support officer with the Bamiyan Association and ambassador for Amnesty International, was awarded the 'Young Woman of the West Award' for her advocacy of human rights issues. Hanan Dover, of Bankstown, received a 'Highly Commended' award and Debbie Roberts, of Harrington Park, received a 'Commended' award.