Media Release
Parramatta Profiles: People Making a Difference in Western Sydney
Powerhouse, in collaboration with The Writing and Society Research Centre at Western Sydney University, is excited to unveil Parramatta Profiles, a captivating writing series about inspiring people making a difference to Parramatta and Greater Western Sydney. Written by talented literature and creative writing students from Western Sydney University, this series offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who contribute to the rich tapestry of this dynamic region.
Drawing from diverse fields such as art, music, religion, activism and sport, each of the 12 profiles captures a snapshot of the unique lives and experiences that shape the cultural landscape of Parramatta, home to some of Australia’s most vibrant and diverse communities.
This collaborative initiative not only shines a spotlight on these remarkable individuals but also supports the development of student writers. The series is part of the broader Powerhouse Writing initiative, which integrates storytelling into the museum’s framework and deepens engagement with the communities and landscapes of Powerhouse Parramatta.
In the Parramatta Profiles series, Matildas icon Leigh Wardell and ex Socceroo Gerry Gomez are interviewed by Gerry’s daughter Jade Gomez on their lifelong commitment to championing and coaching women in sport. Bruno Stramandinoli is helping to build Parramatta — literally — one paver at a time and Wiradjuri rapper Mr Matty B talks openly about how moving to Parramatta helped him discover his creativity and sense of belonging. Aircraft engineer Andy Frelingos, raised by his Greek parents in the back of his family’s milk bar, has been photographing Parramatta’s changing skyline since 2015. Voice to Parliament campaigner and Meriam man Gav Harris reflects on his activism and hopes for the future and former preacher Traidy Bugeja-Naidoo pivots to use his skills as an NDIS service provider.
These are just some of the stories that are being brought to life by 12 WSU students: Ashleigh Dalzell, Lucinda Davies, Farz Edraki, Jade Gomez, Tyler Heesh, Robert Juan Kennard, Jonathan Payne, Deborah Prospero, Narelle Roberts, Elyssa Vickers, Matt Wildig and Jacinta Zinghini with an introduction by project editor Ellen O’Brien.
Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said, ‘We are thrilled to partner with Western Sydney University to showcase the talents of emerging writers, while also celebrating the voices of those who shape Western Sydney.’
Powerhouse Head of Writing Jemma Birrell said, ‘It has been a pleasure to work with these talented writers and our partners at Western Sydney University. This project not only supports emerging writers by providing them with editorial and publishing experience, but it also offers profound insights into the vibrant life of Parramatta.’
Western Sydney University Senior Lecturer Dr Felicity Castagna said, ‘These profiles have deepened my understanding of the region. They capture Parramatta as a place in constant dynamic change, shaped by its diverse communities.’
To read the introduction by Ellen O’Brien visit https://ph.au/3CtvJpq
To read the first story, ‘After The No Vote’ by Matt Wildig visit https://ph.au/3YMRJ5P
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About Powerhouse
Powerhouse sits at the intersection of arts, design, science and technology and plays a critical role in engaging communities with contemporary ideas and issues. We are undertaking a landmark $1.2 billion infrastructure renewal program, spearheaded by the creation of the new museum, Powerhouse Parramatta; expanded research and public facilities at Powerhouse Castle Hill; the renewal of the iconic Powerhouse Ultimo; and the ongoing operation of Sydney Observatory. The museum is custodian to over half a million objects of national and international significance and is considered one of the finest and most diverse collections in Australia. We are also undertaking an expansive digitisation project that will provide new levels of access to the Powerhouse Collection.
About Western Sydney University
Western Sydney University prides itself on challenging the traditional notion of what a university should be. We put students at the heart of everything we do. Embedded in the communities and region we serve, our University is fundamental to the economic, cultural and social life of Western Sydney – one of the fastest-growing, most economically important and most culturally-diverse regions within Australia. We have a network of sites and teaching campuses across Western Sydney and beyond. Western Sydney University has 50,000 students, 3,000 staff, and a strong cohort – both locally and globally – of more than 200,000 alumni. The University has a long and proud history of increasing higher education participation and opening up educational opportunities to students who have the drive, ambition and dedication to succeed, particularly for individuals from diverse and lower socio-economic backgrounds. At the forefront of education innovation, our programs are designed to help address Australia’s current and future workforce needs, with our expanding short courses and microcredential offerings helping people rapidly upskill or reskill in their careers and stay competitive in a fast-changing workplace. The University has been named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact in the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings for the second year in a row. We are globally focused, research led and committed to making a positive impact on the communities we engage with.