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Thursday, 19 November 2020
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ISSUE 290OWDIG
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Magic number
102
St Clair resident Sergeant Bert has reached two magnificent milestones this week. He turned 102 years young and he has also raised over $102,000 for Aussie veterans!
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enrith City Council is encouraging residents, businesses and the community to take the pledge to be safer on the roads for National Road Safety Week (15 November to 22 November). National Road Safety Week highlights the impact of road trauma and ways to reduce it. By taking the pledge, road users are promising to be safer on the roads by identifying and correcting risky behaviours. The week identifies road users as drivers, passengers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. Every year, approximately 1,200 people are killed and another 44,000 are seriously injured on Australian roads. Traffic injury is the biggest killer of Australian children under the age of 15 and the second biggest killer of all Australians between 15 and 24. National Road Safety Week is an annual initiative from the Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group, partnering with road safety organisations and government. Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM praised the SARAH Group and its supporters by providing an opportunity to talk about road safety and to reflect on how we use our roads. “According to Transport for NSW’s crash data, Penrith recorded 30 fatalities between 2015 and 2019. The annual average fatality is six lives lost each year in the Penrith local government area. “Speed and fatigue remain the top contributing
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factors in road crashes in the LGA. We want to continue lowering these numbers by decreasing risks when using the road,” Cr McKeown said. “National Road Safety Week aims to decrease risks of serious injury and death by encouraging road users to remove distractions and never use their mobile phones while they’re behind the wheel or crossing the road and to ensure that they are not fatigued or speeding,” she concluded. Penrith City Council will be sharing tips of encouragement to road users on the Penrith City Council Facebook during the week. For more information on Council’s road safety initiatives, visit penrith.city/roadsafety and follow Penrith City Council on Facebook to keep up to date with programs and events. Learn more about National Safety Week and take the pledge at https://roadsafetyweek.com.au
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Take the pledge to be safer on our roads
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Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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Sergeant Bert smashes his target
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02 year old St Clair resident, Sergeant Bert Le-Merton has walked over 107km to raise over $102,000 so far for veteran support charity Soldier On. Prime Minister Scott Morrison praised him this week, exclaiming “What an absolute legend!” “I spoke to Bert earlier this week to congratulate him on his amazing efforts and also to wish him a happy 102nd birthday ,” the PM said. Bert, who lives in St Clair, served for Australia in North Africa and the Pacific during the Second World War. He wanted to help the younger generation of veterans because he’d seen how some of them had struggled to adapt back to life after service. On Victory in Pacific Day in August this year he set himself the challenge of walking the length of the Kokoda Track (96km) to raise money for Soldier On. He did this by walking around the block every day with his walker. “Initially he hoped to raise $10,000 but he quickly smashed that target.
How good would it be if he could smash his next target of raising $102,000 before his 102nd birthday on Wednesday,” Mr Morrison said earlier this week. “He’s had to pause his walking for a bit while he recovers from a leg injury but hopes to be back at it again soon and we wish him a speedy recovery.” Just after the PM said those magical words, Bert did reach his target! You can support Sergeant Bert and our veterans by visiting: https://fundraise. soldieron.org.au/marchonwithbert More on Sergeant Bert’s birthday milestone in our next edition with Noel Rowsell!
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ederal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP, has delivered $200,000 in Commonwealth funding to resurface around 1.2 kilometres of Farm Road in Mulgoa. “For many people in Mulgoa, this road is an important part of their daily commute to work and school, and back home again. Upgrades like this improve the condition of our local roads, and increase safety while getting around our community,” said Ms McIntosh. Farm Road has experienced increased usage as nearby works on the Northern Road divert traffic. The Commonwealth Government is delivering over $1.2 million to upgrade the Northern Road. “These important road upgrades in our community mean you’ll spend less time in traffic and more time at home with your family. Better and safer roads are part of my plan for Lindsay,” said Ms McIntosh. “We’ve responded to the impacts of the diversions around the Northern Road upgrade and are moving quickly to deliver the resurfacing of Farm Road.” This funding comes under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grants program and the works will be conducted by Penrith City Council.
Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith
“The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grants program has already seen more than 1,800 projects approved for funding across Australia. In the Budget, we extended this program by $1 billion so we can continue to build the roads and infrastructure our communities need, support small businesses and create thousands of local jobs.
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MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600 melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au www.melissamcintosh.com.au MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750.
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Farm Rd funding
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Quest: Celebrating our Everyday Local Heroes
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e are so very lucky, we have an abundance of local volunteers putting in numerous hours for many different causes or organisations, and all for zero remuneration. They’re the glue that keeps our community together, they’re the unsung heroes and they’re so good at quietly doing their thing that we often don’t even realise they’re doing it all just out of the goodness of their hearts. It’s not a job. It’s a passion. Once again, Quest Penrith Apartment Hotel would like to reward our Everyday Local Heroes. They did it three months ago and now it is time to do it again! They’d like to see them recognised for the enormous contribution they make to the success of our region and they’d like to spoil them with a night’s accommodation in one of their luxurious One Bedroom Apartments.
The Quest Penrith Local Heroes from last quarter: Leigh Ries and Cherise Terry-Jongejans
When Avli Greek Restaurant heard about Quest’s Penrith idea of celebrating and spoiling a volunteer each quarter, they
were keen to jump on board and ensure the winner receives a scrumptious dinner on them.
Now we need your help. We need nominations from our readers to help us find the Quest Penrith Everday Local Hero. We are looking for the selfless people who pour hours and hours of their time into helping out in sporting organisations, schools, hospitals, tourism, local organisations and charities. To nominate someone for November, you can fill out the nomination form below and email it to sales.penrith@questapartments. com.au Please include the following when emailing: Your name and contact number, the name and contact number of the person you are nominating. What is it they do and how long they’ve been doing it. It’s that simple! Quest Penrith, Avli and Nepean News would like to thank you for helping us celebrate a quarterly Everday Local Hero!
PENRITH
Celebrating our Quarterly Hero with 1 night’s accommodation at Quest Penrith PLUS a $100 dinner voucher at Avli Greek Restaurant in thanks for your selfless services to our local community Quest Penrith Everyday Local Hero Campaign Who would you like to nominate? ____________________________________________________________________________________ Their contact number _______________________________________________________________________________________________ What is it that they do? ___________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ How long have they been doing it? ___________________________________________________________________________________ Your name _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Your contact number _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Nominations for the November Quest Everyday Local Hero must be received by November 16, 2020. The November Everyday Hero will be announced in Nepean News November 26 edition. Nominees who meet the following criteria will be considered: • Must live and volunteer in the Penrith LGA. • Must have at least 12 months volunteering history • Open to all age groups and all organisations who utilise volunteers within the Penrith LGA.
Email your nomination by submitting the information required above, plus up to 100 words explaining what it is your nominee does, to Quest Penrith Everyday Local Hero Campaign to sales.penrith@questapartments.com.au If you prefer to send by mail please cut the above form out and attach a written submission up to 100 words on what it is they do, and send to 83 Lord Sheffield Cct, Penrith NSW 2750.
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enrith City Council is encouraging the community to help shine a light on the dedicated, selfless and inspiration people in Penrith by nominating them in the inaugural Local Celebration Awards. The new award program aims to recognise people of all ages who go above and beyond, who volunteer their time to make Penrith a great place to live, or who work tirelessly for the benefit of others and for the community. Penrith Mayor Cr Karen McKeown OAM said after a difficult year of unprecedented challenges there’s never been a better time to celebrate Penrith’s can-do attitude and resilient spirit. “Over the past year our community has experienced bushfires, flooding and the social, emotional and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout it all, and despite it all, we know there are amazing people doing great things in Penrith,” Cr McKeown said. “These awards are an opportunity for us to highlight the people in our community who have shown us the best of themselves in some of the worst times and give them the recognition they deserve.
Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM with volunteers from Mama Lanas Community Foundation who were recipients of the 2020 Penrith Community Group Award.
“I encourage residents and our wider community to put forward a nomination - this is your chance to shine a light on the heroes who make us all proud to be part of this City,” Cr McKeown said. Nominations for the 2021 Local Celebration Awards are open until 30 April 2021. Submissions will be accepted in person, online, by mail and by video. There are four award categories to choose from: • Citizen of the Year (over 18 years old) • Young Citizen of the Year (aged under 17 years old)
• Mayor’s Local Heroes Award (all ages) • Making a Difference – Community Service Award (all ages). The award recipients will be announced at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 18 July 2021. This is an important date for Council and a significant date in Penrith’s history, as it marks the 150th anniversary of the very first meeting of Penrith Municipal Council held on 18 July 1871. Following the announcement in July, the Local Celebration Award winners will be formally recognised
at an event held in August 2021. Find out more about the award program, the selection criteria and how to nominate at: penrith.city/ local-celebration-awards
Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM with Lana and Roger Borg
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Celebrating the heroes in our community
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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local news
$13 million for recovery of bushfire affected Blue Mountains
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he Morrison Government is working with Western Sydney University and traditional owners to better protect endangered plant species from the increasing threat of bushfires. Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley joined the Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh at Castlereagh Nature Reserve near Penrith as the Morrison Government confirmed $13 million for the Greater Blue Mountains and other fire affected World Heritage areas in NSW to support habitat and wildlife recovery. Castlereagh Nature reserve is home to two EPBC listed Threatened Ecological Communities: the Cooks River/ Castlereagh Ironbark Forest (critically endangered) and the Castlereagh Scribbly Gum and Agnes Banks Woodlands (endangered). Backed by funding under the Bushfire Wildlife and Habitat Recovery Fund, a Western Sydney University led project supported by the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council, Greater Sydney Local Land Services, University of NSW and NSW Government agencies, is assessing impacts and facilitating recovery. Researches are using remote sensing and on-ground surveys to document changes in vegetation structure, canopy condition (scorch,
resprouting), seed abundance, endangered plant species, and weed invasion in burned and unburned areas. “After meeting with stakeholders at Western Sydney University immediately after the fires this year it is really encouraging to see the outcomes starting to take shape,” Minister Ley said. “There has been an enormous amount of expert assessment and investment and the Greater Blue Mountains and impacted World Heritage areas in NSW have been a key focus.” Federal Member for Lindsay,
Melissa McIntosh welcomed the funding as a critical step in ensuring the Nepean, Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury recover from the devastating 2020 bushfire season. “Our community endured a lot through the last bushfire season, and I saw firsthand how this impacted our local flora and fauna when I visited communities in the Mountains and surrounding areas. “Investigating the effects of bushfires on our natural vegetation will play a key role in building our understanding and resilience to future bushfire seasons. This knowledge about vegetation structure
and biodiversity will help inform how we use future managed burns. I congratulate Western Sydney University and their partners and look forward to seeing their outcomes.” said Ms McIntosh. The projects were the focus of a regional co-design workshop held in September which brought together local scientists, Landcare groups, natural resource management organisations, state government agencies, local councils, zoos and wildlife organisations to set the priorities for recovery out to June 2022. Workshop participants identified priority actions including pest animal, weed and erosion control, traditional owner-led healing of country, and specific interventions for priority species. The $13 million investment builds on considerable Morrison Government bushfire recovery support across NSW and the Blue Mountains region since January and will support the long-term recovery of our native plants, animals and ecological communities following the devastating fires. Visit www.environment.gov.au/ biodiversity/bushfire-recovery/ regional-delivery-program for more information.
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Seven year old drowns A child has died in Nepean Hospital after being found unconscious in a swimming hole in the Blue Mountains last weekend. Parents of a seven-year-old boy called emergency services to Jellybean Pool in the Blue Mountains National Park at Glenbrook about 2.20pm on Sunday 15 November, reporting the child had been missing for almost 30 minutes. The child was pulled from the water about 2.45pm by family members and CPR was initiated by officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command, the Dog Unit and Rescue Squad; it was then taken over by NSW Ambulance paramedics. A rescue helicopter was deployed and winched a medical team to the scene. Police have now been told the child died shortly on arrival at Nepean Hospital. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Three teenagers charged over alleged carjacking of food delivery driver – St Clair Three teenagers will appear in court charged over an alleged carjacking earlier this week. About 11.25pm on Monday (16 November 2020), a food delivery driver, aged 19, was driving his black Audi A4 when he stopped to make a delivery outside a home on The Grandstand, St Clair. After delivering the food, he was getting back into his car when he was allegedly approached by an unknown male armed with a knife. The armed male reached into the car and pulled him out while threatening him with the knife. The male allegedly got into the Audi and drove away, followed by a Ford Focus – which inquiries revealed had been reported stolen from a home in Jordan Spring on Thursday 5 November 2020. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command attended, established a crime scene and commenced an investigation. Following inquiries, three teenage boys – two aged 16 and one 14 – were arrested by officers from Nepean’s Proactive Crime Team on Cox Avenue, Penrith, just after 3pm yesterday (Wednesday 18 November 2020). They were taken to Penrith Police Station, where the 16-year-old from Mt Druitt was charged with aggravated assault with intent to take/drive motor vehicle-armed with weapon, robbery armed with offensive weapon, two counts of goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, attempted dishonestly obtain property by deception and driver never licenced. A 16-year-old from Penrith was charged with dishonestly obtain property by deception, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, robbery armed with offensive weapon, two counts of receiving, and never licenced person drive vehicle on road. The younger male was charged with robbery armed with offensive weapon. All three were refused bail to appear before a children’s court. Both the Audi and Ford Focus have been recovered and will undergo further examination.
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Police files
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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local news
102nd Remembrance Day in Penrith
Photos from the 102nd Remembrance Day Service at Memory Park, Penrith on 11/11/20 - photos by Noel Rowsell By Noel Rowsell
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Mrs Shirley Delaney (Women’s Veterans Assoc)
Brian Cartwright & John Fenton
he City of Penrith RSL Sub-Branch held it’s 102nd Remembrance Day service in Memory Park, Woodriff Street, Penrith at 11am on 11th November, 2020. In spite of the numbers of attendees being strictly limited under Covid-19 guidelines, the service was again well-supported as local residents, service personnel and dignitaries honoured those who have served and died for their country. The service began with the mounting of the Catafalque Party from the 176 Air Dispatch Squadron, as sentries for the memorial, followed by the Opening Prayer (President Brian Cartwright, City of Penrith RSL Sub-Branch), the Prayer for Remembrance (Ms Louise Green, Penrith RSL Auxiliary), Poem ‘In Flanders Field’ (Ashley Benson), Commemorative Address and the Prayer for the Australian
Sgt Patrick Brennan
Defence Force (Sgt Patrick Brennan), Prayer for Peace (Brian Cartwright), Wreath Laying Ceremony, Ode (Mr John King OAM, VicePresident City of Penrith RSL Sub-Branch), Last Post (Amelia Stone), the minute’s silence, followed by Rouse (Amelia Stone) and the Benediction (Brian Cartwright). The service ended with the dismounting of the Catafalque Party, after which the many veterans and friends were invited to the Penrith RSL to share their memories.
Snr Sgt Matt Shervington and Nepean Area Commander, Superintendent Chris Kean
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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local news
Budget to boost jobs, kick-start the economy and continue keeping people safe
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reating and supporting jobs through targeted stimulus measures, billions of dollars for infrastructure and maintenance, tax cuts for business and record health funding are at the centre of today’s 2020-21 NSW State Budget. The Budget reinforces our world-class health system that has made NSW a global leader in tracking, tracing and containing COVID-19 to keep our people safe, as part of a record $29.3 billion health budget. Job creation is front and centre with a record $107 billion infrastructure pipeline targeting shovel and screwdriver-ready projects, while a skills and training blitz will help people get back into the workforce after this year’s significant job losses. Hip-pocket support will give families peace of mind, with 15 hours of free preschool per week extended to the end of 2021, and $100 worth of Out & About vouchers for every adult resident to inject new energy into the economy, help businesses doing it tough and encourage employment. More assistance is being fast-tracked to help those most affected, with the biggest mental health budget in NSW’s history, and a major investment to provide intensive tutoring in schools to help students overcome the challenges of a rollercoaster school year. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the Budget takes decisive action to meet the needs of people across NSW, as we emerge from an unprecedented health and economic crisis. “The people of NSW have done it tough over the past 12 months, faced with the triple crises of drought, bushfires and COVID-19,” Ms Berejiklian said. “We are doing whatever it takes to stay ahead of the pandemic and provide the support our households, businesses and communities need to get back on their own two feet.” The NSW economy contracted by 1 per cent in 2019-20, with negative growth of ¾ per cent projected for 2020-21, followed by a projected return to growth of 2½ per cent in 2021-22. The Budget will make targeted investments to turbo-charge jobs over the next five years with the unemployment rate projected to fall to 5¼ per cent
by June 2024 as up to 270,000 people return to the workforce. “With so many people out of work this year and more predicted to become unemployed, we’re in a race against time to help create as many new jobs as we can,” Ms Berejiklian said. “This Budget has workers at its heart, with temporary, targeted stimulus to generate jobs and get businesses booming again.” Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said nine years of strong financial management had put the Government in a strong position to deploy its fiscal firepower, which would be coupled with record low interest rates, to stimulate a strong recovery through responsible borrowing. “The risk of long-term economic damage is too great if we do not take action, so we are taking advantage of record low interest rates and a strong balance sheet to turbo-charge our recovery,” Mr Perrottet said. “That doesn’t mean abandoning our firm commitment to fiscal responsibility. This Budget includes measures to chart a course back to surplus by 2024-25, and a strong economic recovery will
support that goal.” The Budget takes the next steps to secure greater prosperity for current and future generations, continuing to deliver large-scale infrastructure to build a better future, investing in our people through education and skills, and securing the quality services everyone in NSW can rely on. Employers will get a major recovery boost with $2.8 billion in payroll tax cuts including increasing the threshold to $1.2 million to lower the cost of creating jobs, and businesses that are under the payroll tax threshold will receive $1,500 vouchers to cover government fees. A new push to cut red tape will make it easier to run a business, and through the Government’s Jobs Plus initiative we will support companies who want to relocate their head offices to NSW or expand their jobs footprint in NSW. The Budget also supports a broad-ranging reform agenda including planning, education and digital reform, and examining reform to the state’s property tax system. The record investment in this Budget sets us up for a prosperous, post-pandemic NSW
Labor leader delivers budget reply speech The NSW Labor Leader Jodi McKay has used her Budget reply speech to reveal Labor’s plan to put jobs at the centre of the State’s economic recovery. Ms McKay said Labor’s priorities include: Passing the NSW Jobs Firsts Bill to make sure taxpayer funds spent on procurement create local jobs and support industry A Building Better Neighbourhoods approach to local jobs and infrastructure and a local jobs
guarantee at Badgerys Creek and the Aerotropolis Getting women back to work through free access to preschool for at least 18 months Guaranteed employment, education and training opportunities for young people Establishing a Royal Commission into Mental Health and Suicide “Budgets are about more than just numbers,” Ms McKay said.
“A Labor Budget would deliver for people, their jobs, their families and their communities.” Ms McKay said the Government’s Budget during a recession and pandemic is disappointing: “This is a short-term Budget. It’s the same one they could have delivered any year. “The world has changed but this Budget doesn’t recognise that. It’s the same old Budget from a tired 10-year-old Government.”
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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local news Western Sydney University opens new retail precinct Caddens Corner
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he much anticipated Caddens Corner neighbourhood shopping centre, developed by Western Sydney University, has officially opened. Located on O’Connell Street in the heart of Penrith’s Health and Wellbeing Precinct, Caddens Corner is a vibrant new retail and community destination that is set to generate over $60 million in local economic activity in the first 12 months and support over 400 new jobs. Caddens Corner includes a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, health and wellbeing services, a gym, food and dining precinct, a range of speciality retail stores, and a 500-car onsite car park, complete with electric vehicle chargers. Western Sydney University ViceChancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said Caddens Corner will contribute to the region by supporting people to live, learn and work in a community that is well connected to services, shops and other amenities. “The University is proud to bring this retail project to life. The Caddens Corner development is set to enhance the liveability, productivity and sustainability of our local community, while creating much-needed new jobs for the local economy at a time when we are all focused on the economic
teaching, engagement and research, and secure the financial sustainability of the University.” The centre has impressive environmental credentials. A fivestar, green star development, Caddens Corner has been built from sustainable materials and is powered by extensive solar panels. Its design features a lowlying profile so that it complements the landscape and adjoining suburbs. The design also incorporates natural ventilation, which allows for rainwater to be harvested to maintain landscaping, and solar-powered lighting in the car park, that includes three charging stations for electric vehicles. Cyclists are catered for with bike parking and end of journey facilities.
recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Professor Glover. “Caddens Corner is part of our ‘Western Growth’ strategy – a plan that is reshaping the University’s campus network and co-creating cities and infrastructure across Western Sydney.
This is being done in partnership with industry and government and fosters a deep engagement with our local communities. “This innovative project is enabling the University to maximise its investment in our core activities of
New emergency communications sites for Western Sydney and Lower Blue Mountains
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he Public Safety Network (PSN) in Western Sydney and the lower Blue Mountains has been expanded with the completion of new emergency communications sites at St Marys and Glenbrook. Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said the new radio sites, delivered by the NSW Telco Authority, are vital to ongoing community safety. “Public Safety Network sites provide emergency services organisations with a single, integrated network on which to communicate,” Mr Ayres said. “It’s technology that saves lives. By expanding the footprint of this critical infrastructure, we are ensuring that frontline responders have a more reliable network to help keep people and places safe. “These sites were crucial in protecting communities and supporting the Rural Fire Service, Police, Fire and Rescue,
Ambulance and the State Emergency Service during the 2019-20 bushfires in NSW.” Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the NSW Government was investing more than $600 million in essential infrastructure to better protect communities. “During an emergency every second counts. The new radio sites in St Marys and Glenbrook will make it easier for our local emergency services to communicate when it matters most,” Mr Dominello said. “The PSN’s expansion represents the biggest investment in critical communications infrastructure by the NSW Government in two decades.” The delivery of the new emergency communications site at St Marys and Glenbrook follows a $217 million boost to the Telco Authority in 2020 to continue to expand the footprint of the PSN across NSW.
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local news
$39.3 million boost to help small businesses
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mall businesses across NSW are winning big thanks to the 2020-21 NSW Budget with a $39.3 million boost for the Business Connect program. On top of the Government’s announcement in April of $9.8 million Business Connect funding for 2020-21, the program will be extended for a further three years, representing a total $39.3 million, fouryear commitment. The program is designed to support small businesses across the State to access targeted business advice and skills training, including how to build resilience and to recover from the state’s triple crises. Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the investment builds on the Government’s COVID-19 stimulus and recovery plan, which would support thousands of jobs over the next three years. “The NSW Government is focused on kickstarting the economy following 12 months of challenges. This funding will help businesses stay in business and create more jobs well into the future,” Mr Tudehope said. “Research shows that the program directly
supports small businesses to create and sustain jobs and grow revenue. “To date the Business Connect program has supported more than 35,000 businesses since launching in 2017, including more than 10,000 since March this year.” Mr Tudehope said the $39.3 million boost was an investment into the futures of small and medium businesses across NSW, from Broken Hill to Byron Bay and Blacktown. “Business Connect advisors are located across NSW and can help people start, run, adapt, or grow their small business,” Mr Tudehope said. “It’s important that we help those most affected by COVID and that includes small business owners as
we plan for a prosperous, post-pandemic NSW.” Business Connect has a network of more than 120 accredited business advisors providing professional, independent advice, including an additional 40 advisers brought on board for the COVID-19 response. “The funding also ensures the highly successful annual Small Business Month festival continues to take place for the next three years; hosting events and activities that provide opportunities for thousands of business owners to reboot, upskill and connect.” As part of the Government’s immediate response to the pandemic, the Business Connect program was extended until June 2021. Business advice is free for businesses affected by COVID-19 and/or bushfires. The NSW Government has committed billions of dollars in support measures for businesses since March. The support measures include $750 million in grants through the Small Business Support Fund, advice through Business Connect, payroll tax waivers and deferrals, rent relief for eligible businesses, and targeted support for heavily affected sectors. For information on Business Connect visit business.nsw.gov.au/businessconnect or call 1300 134 359.
$10 million grants program to assist women back into the workforce
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omen across the State will have access to grants of up to $5,000 through the NSW Government’s new $10 million Return to Work program, as part of the 2020-21 NSW Budget. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the program would provide women with financial assistance and targeted support including mentoring, advice and training to help them return to the workforce. “These grants will help women whose employment has been affected by COVID-19 to overcome some of the obstacles in returning to the workforce,” Ms Berejiklian said. “I encourage women from all walks of life to apply for these grants and use this springboard to jump back into their former career or even start a new one.” Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said helping more women get back to work will not only provide a financial lifeline for them and their families, it will also boost the economy. “We know that many part-time or
casual positions and female-dominated industries were severely impacted by COVID-19, so we are looking to empower as many women as possible to be able to get back into paid employment,” Mr Perrottet said. It is estimated that women make up 53 per cent of directly affected industries and 65 per cent of secondary industries impacted by the pandemic.
These include accommodation and food services, retail, arts, and professional services. Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the grants are available to all women who have been out of work for at least one month. “There are so many costs involved in starting up again, so it is great that women looking to return to work will
be able to use these grants towards things like training and education, office supplies, or whatever it is they need to get back into a job,” Mrs Taylor said. “The money can also be used for childcare, including before and after school care and transport, which will really help mothers overcome some of the biggest barriers to getting back into work.” Eligible recipients will be given a Return to Work Coordinator to develop a plan, which will set out the resources that will assist them getting back in the workforce. They must be a resident of NSW and plan to start paid work within six months. The Return to Work Program aligns with the NSW Women’s Strategy, which sets the NSW Government’s priorities for supporting women and girls, especially following times of crisis. For further information, visit https:// www.service.nsw.gov.au/registerinterest-return-work-program.
$10 million for lifesaving stroke ambulance A specially equipped ambulance, designed to help clinicians rapidly diagnose and treat stroke patients en route to hospital, will be funded in the 2020-21 NSW Budget. Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Health Minister Brad Hazzard said $10 million will be invested in the mobile stroke unit (MSU), offering life saving treatment on the go. “One in four Australians will have a stroke and few survive without some form of disability so time saved in diagnosis and treatment is a brain saved,” Mr Perrottet said.
“This mobile stroke unit will be the first of its kind in NSW and only the third in operation in the southern hemisphere” Research from Europe and the US has shown the use of mobile stroke units has improved patient outcomes by delivering more immediate treatment. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the pilot in NSW will utilise telemedicine systems which enable online, real-time communication with specialists via videoconferencing. “A radiographer in the MSU
will relay CT scans to telestroke specialists, who identify the type of stroke and then advise MSU staff of the treatment plan,” Mr Hazzard said. “The two main types of stroke require different treatments and a CT scan is vital to identify the course of action but until now, CT scanners were only found in hospitals.” It is anticipated the pilot program will include state-of-the-art mobile brain perfusion CT technology being developed in Europe and scheduled to be available here in 2022. Stroke Foundation Chief Executive
Officer Sharon McGowan welcomed the announcement, saying the value of early detection of stroke cannot be overstated. “Up to 1.9 million brain cells die each minute when a stoke strikes the brain but with the right treatment at the right time, the damage can be stopped,” Ms McGowan said. “Now NSW will have a mobile stroke unit with a portable CT scanner and access to specialists from the NSW Telestroke Service to provide life and brain-saving treatment.”
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ulti ARIA award winning artist, Kate Ceberano, has been in the business for over 35 years - writing and performing both jazz and pop music - with seven Platinum and seven Gold albums to her name. Kate first came to prominence in the mid-80’s as a 15-year-old sensation fronting pop funk band, I’m Talking. Five consecutive hit singles and a Platinum debut album, “Bear Witness”, led to a swag of awards for both the band and Kate. After launching her solo career, she took out Best Female Artist at the ‘88 and ‘89 ARIA awards with her triple Platinum album “Brave”, nominated as ARIA Album of the Year. In 1992, Kate hit the stage to perform the role of Mary in “Jesus Christ Superstar”. The show’s star-studded cast toured nationally, performed over 80 arena shows and the album was the biggest hit of the year earning four times platinum status. Ceberano has barely drawn breath since, racking up 27 albums over 35 years to be the most prolific Australian female recording artist of this era. In 2014, Ceberano became the first woman to be inducted into the Australian Songwriters’ Association
(ASA) Hall of Fame. 2016 saw Kate on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, becoming a member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the performing arts and charitable organisations. Kate is widely respected across multiple industries of film, television and music. In recent times, she has been celebrated in her threeyear tenure as Artistic Director of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival,
transforming it into one of the most successful festivals in the country. Kate is currently recording another album which she is producing; out later in 2020. Kate Ceberano is a most diverse and creative tour-de-force. Her work, her craft and her vision are now imbued in our collective DNA. Kate Ceberano is a bona fide national treasure, possessing one of the great voices of her generation. Long may she run.
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Kate Ceberano appearing at Panthers
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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local news
Pyometra: a serious infection of the uterus
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yometra is a common disease in undesexed female dogs that requires major surgery. Pyometra is a serious infection of the uterus that results in the accumulation of pus within the cavity of the uterus. It is generally seen in older female cats and dogs who have not been desexed. Pyometras can become life threatening especially if the uterus ruptures inside the body. Untreated pyometra can cause dehydration, kidney failure and eventual death from infection and toxin accumulation. What causes a pyometra? Each time a dog has a season (generally twice a year), she undergoes hormonal changes. These changes affect the uterus and cervix and make infection more likely. Infection is usually caused by a very common organism called E. Coli. The disease usually becomes apparent several weeks or months following heat. What are the signs of pyometra? Pyometra is obviously only seen in females and can occur at any age but more commonly occurs in dogs over the age of 6. Early signs can be subtle and could just include increased licking around the back end or just being a bit tired and not as hungry as usual. In the advanced stages you may notice that she drinks lots of water and sometimes you may even find a reddish-brown discharge coming from the back end. Some dogs will have a distended abdomen and
become very depressed and tired. How is pyometra diagnosed? A good history is generally suggestive of pyometra but x-rays/ ultrasound and blood tests are generally needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess how sick the dog is. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the best treatment option is surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus as soon as possible. Some animals are too sick for an anaesthetic and need to be stabilised prior to surgery.
Can it be prevented? Yes! The only way to prevent this condition is by having your dog desexed. If you are not intending to breed your dog, then she should be desexed at anytime from 6 months of age. Not only does desexing prevent pyometra and cancers of the reproductive tract, but if you get your female dog desexed before her first season then this reduces the chance of breast cancer developing later in life by 90%. If you have any questions about desexing your pet, please contact us on 4731 3055.
Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750
Nsw gov to unleash toughest penalties for animal cruelty
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owards caught committing acts of cruelty to animals will now face the harshest set of penalties in Australia, with the NSW Government set to dramatically ramp up punishments for animal cruelty offenders, Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has announced. Mr Marshall will introduce notice for legislation this week into State Parliament to increases a massive eight-fold current penalties under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTA). He said it was the next step on his crusade against those who neglect, harm or interfere with animals, especially illegal puppy factory operators “Cruelty towards animals is one of the lowest acts and for too long our penalties here in NSW have lagged behind where they need to be,” Mr Marshall said. “The new set of measures I’m taking to Parliament dramatically increase both financial penalties and gaol time and introduce new offences to stop people ever being allowed to own, care or breed animals in NSW. “Most people treat animals with the care they deserve, but unfortunately we know there are people out there doing the wrong thing – committing heinous acts against animals. These changes would enable our enforcement agencies to throw the book at those caught perpetrating cruelty offences. “Courts will have more power to compel people to care for, or surrender their animals, as well as prevent them acquiring more animals while they face charges. “In some cases, these punishments are more than double that in most other states, so when these laws are passed, NSW will have the toughest set of animal cruelty penalties in Australia. “Everyone – from those neglecting their pet in the backyard to covert puppy factory grubs – should
be on notice from today; do the right thing or face the consequences.” Mr Marshall said the NSW Government the penalties would be increased to match community expectations, and would work with its enforcement agencies, the NSW Police, RSPCA and Animal Welfare League, to ensure they are applied. “Just last month we set up a dedicated unit with the RSPCA to crack down on puppy factories. Now, when they are found, the full force of the law will be felt if they are not complying with both our breeding codes and animal cruelty laws,” Mr Marshall said. “Our crusade isn’t over. The message is clear, if you abuse animals, or simply fail to care for them,
you will get caught and it will cost you.” The proposed increases would introduce the following penalties: • Cruelty – increased from $5,500 fine (current) to $44,000 and/or 12 months’ imprisonment for individuals and $220,000 for corporations for each individual act of cruelty; • Aggravated Cruelty – increased from $22,000 fine (current) to $110,000 and/or 2 years’ imprisonment for individuals and $550,000 for corporations for each individual act; • Fail to Provide Food & Shelter – Increased from $5,500 fine (current) to $16,500 and/or six months’ imprisonment for individuals and $82,500 for corporations for each individual act.
local news
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enrith City Council is calling for artists to submit their Expressions of Interest to design and create an iconic public art piece for the new Regatta Park recreational precinct. This is an exciting opportunity for an artist to be part of a city-shaping project for Penrith and to create a public artwork that engages, inspires, and welcomes visitors to the Nepean River for generations to come. The commissioned artwork will be a key feature of the new Regatta Park precinct that celebrates the rich history and significance of the location and reinforce the intergenerational connection between the river and the local community. Talented artists are invited to detail their experience in delivering public artworks and their ability to develop durable and robust artworks in Stage One of the Expression of Interest period, which is open for four weeks until 16 December 2020. Three short listed artists will be selected from Stage One and each will be awarded $1,500 to develop and present their concept design proposal and outline how the Artist will engage with the community. The successful artist will be announced in February 2021 and receive $125,000 for all associated costs to complete the artwork including the fabrication, delivery, and installation.
Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said this is a major opportunity for an artist to create a timeless piece of art for one of the most beautiful locations in Penrith. “The Nepean River is our region’s most loved natural asset and an iconic public art piece within the new Regatta Park precinct will create even more opportunities for locals and visitors to experience and enjoy this very special part of Penrith,” Cr McKeown said.
Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said the completed Regatta Park would be an asset for Penrith. “The Regatta Park upgrade is a fantastic outcome of the City Deal and I look forward to this piece of public art adding to what will be one of Penrith’s must visit destinations,” Mr Ayres said. A Public Art Review Panel will be established to oversee the artist selection process. The Regatta Park upgrade is being
jointly funded by Australian and NSW Governments through the Western Parkland City Liveability Program, and Penrith City Council. A detailed brief about the project is available to view or download from Council’s website penrith. city/regattapark and from the yoursaypenrith.com.au/regatta-park. For queries regarding the EOI process please contact regattapark@penrith. city
Have your say on the City Park design
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ensory gardens, water features, shaded areas and a green open space for outdoor activities are just a few of the key features proposed for Penrith’s new City Park. The design captures the ideas and input provided by the local community during consultation earlier this year and Penrith City Council is now inviting further feedback to finalise the design of City Park. An online survey is open from 16 November to 6 December for the community to provide input on important design elements including the look and feel of the park, the amount of shading, and other key features of the park. Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the City Park project is a great example of how the community can provide input into shaping the design and delivery of a new open space in Penrith. “We’ve been working with the community for several years on City Park and the detailed design is the culmination of what we have heard,” Cr McKeown said. “It’s exciting to be at a point in this project where we can present the detail of the public space that is to become the vibrant and green heart in our city
New artist impressions provide an exciting glimpse into the future of Penrith’s new City Park. View all the artist impressions and complete the online survey to give your thoughts on the design at yoursaypenrith.com.au/penrith-city-park.
centre, and that strengthens Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city.” “I encourage everyone to complete the survey to share your thoughts on the park design which will help us to
move forward with the delivery of this project and the realisation of the much-anticipated Penrith City Park,” Cr McKeown said. View the artist impressions of City Park and complete the short
online survey at yoursaypenrith.com. au/penrith-city-park by Sunday 6 December. For more information visit www.penrith.city/citypark.
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Artists sought for new public artwork in Regatta Park
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Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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NEPEAN HISTORY
Into the West
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
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ntil 1856, travellers wanting to cross the Nepean River were required to use the Emu Ford crossing or a punt located south of the present-day Victoria Bridge on Punt Road. This meant that in times of flood, travellers were often delayed at Penrith for days or even weeks waiting to cross the river. With the discovery of gold further to the west the flow of people, produce and animals through Penrith and across the river increased dramatically and it was no coincidence that attempts were made to build a permanent structure across the river that resulted in the construction of two timber road bridges near to where our Victoria Bridge is now located. In the 1860’s the Great Western road was the bane of all those who travelled on it. Even then in its best and smoothest condition, the road (now known as the Great Western Highway) was said to be by no means a pleasant thoroughfare to travel on. Most travellers at that time thought that the most primitive bush track would be a favourable comparison with some portions of it, even though large sums of money had literally been thrown “into the mud” the road exhibited some of the very worst specimens of missadministration. The road over Lapstone Hill was the only portion between Penrith and Bathurst that was easily passable where elsewhere the track was more like a ravine, torn up by furious mountain torrents. The “metal” used in the formation of this admirable highway was a soft kind of sandstone that was pulverised by traffic and tends to increase the evil that it is meant to remedy. The hollows and deep ruts were filled with this rubbish and soon crushed into dust, and with the first rain the holes filled up into treacherous quagmires. The constant succession of “ups and downs” that the adventurous traveller experienced while journeying along this fine “artery of commerce’’ one could call it both fatiguing to one’s body and exacerbating to one’s temper. It is believed that the most soft hearted philanthropist would have the milk of human kindness almost entirely churned out of him by a trip along this thoroughfare, and the most resigned and easy tempered of mortals would feel inclined to murmur at his unhappy lot should he be placed in a similar position. So rough and sloppy and ill-made and boggy and water-worn and neglected that one is at a loss to say what it may once have been. How teams can travel at all in wet weather is a mystery! Cobb’s coaches must have been made of some magically strong material or they could never stand the racketing, let alone the poor people in the coach. No description could exaggerate an important thoroughfare as this, remaining in such a deplorable condition. It is a disgrace to the colony!. Moreover, the opening of the railway beyond Penrith seems likely to be delayed for some little time longer. The officials said repairs to the line would take a few weeks, but to extend the time it would take at least a fortnight to repair the bridge and, if the train begins to run to the Weatherboard (Wentworth Falls) within the next month, people may think themselves lucky. The injury to the Nepean Bridge is foremost in the list of casualties and that injury will soon be remedied. The damage to the western approach was caused by the washing away of the
Michelle Latham
michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au
PH: 9623 6656 | MOBILE: 0418 250 242 186 Queen Street, St. Marys (Star Arcade)
riverbank with the earth around the piles removed by the flood. Three rows of piles had been carried away and it is said that John Whitton intends to dispense with them altogether, throwing a single arch across from the stone pier to that portion of the approach that still remains sound. The authorities say this work will be completed in a week but as it has not yet begun, people are rather sceptical upon this point. It was said that the quantity of driftwood which accumulated against the western approach of the bridge was immense. The workmen were busily engaged in clearing it away and they removed tons upon tons of light studs and thick timber. No doubt the late heavy rains and floods had made things worse on the road though it seems that no amount of rain could have made it very much worse than it already was. It seems the makers of the road are more to blame than the floods that have only spoiled it in patches, while the makers have bungle the whole thing from beginning to end. The floods damaged the western approach to the Nepean Bridge as to render it impassable and with the punts swept away the mail had to be carried over on foot and placed in the mail coach on the Emu Plains side. In many places the road was quite bare, the scouring of the water had swept away the earth and left the large stones that were used in forming the basis. The passage over these boulders may be better imagined than described and indeed it would be very hard by mere words to convey anything like a true idea of the obstructions that impedes the flow of traffic through this “artery of commerce.” The railway embankments that are for the most part seen from the road seem to be uninjured, although in some places heaps of loose soil had been swept down onto the line where it runs through cuttings. Engineer John Whitton was born in Yorkshire, England. For seven years he worked with a relative of his mother where he received engineering and architectural experience by preparing plans and tenders for railway construction and waterworks. In 1854 he was elected a member of the Institution of Civil Engineers in London and two years later he was appointed engineer-in-chief with a salary of £1,500 to lay out and supervise the construction of railways in NSW. With his wife he arrived in Sydney. The wrought iron girder Victoria Bridge over the Nepean River was completed in 1867. The bridge was designed to carry two railway tracks as it was intended that the road on the bridge would only be a temporary arrangement. The 1870 select committee on railway extension recommended the construction of cheap narrow-gauge railways with the necessity to a break of gauge within the colony as well as at the border and estimates were prepared. John was determined to sabotage the committee’s recommendation and suspended all surveys and new work. With the help of others, he overcame the engineering problems partly caused by the government’s love of keeping things as cheap as possible and built the Blue Mountains line, including two great zigzags that opened in April 1876. John died of cardiac disease in February 1898 at Mittagong and was buried in St Thomas’s Church of England cemetery in North Sydney. His estate was valued for probate at £10,396.
Photo of John Whitton courtesy of the Blue Mountains Gazette. Source: Sydney Morning Herald’s Special Correspondent, Australian Dictionary of Biography, BDM online.
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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS
Ask the Expert - How to Have a Pet-Friendly Sales Process
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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W
ith pet popularity skyrocketing during COVID-19 restrictions, more of us than ever have expanded our family to include a furry friend. With Australia already having one of the highest rates of animal ownership in the world, it is clear a significant proportion of us fall into the petloving category. However, when it comes to selling a home, we may need to think with our heads and not so much our hearts. If you are already in process of selling, you may have had this potentially awkward conversation with your sales agent already. Not only are there paramount considerations to undertake, such as what is best for your pet during the sales process, but ignoring the presence of your pet may also cause serious financial implications. Sharon Mudiman Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region
The reality is, buyers use inspections to envisage how your space can work for them. This is where staging comes in creating a beautiful backdrop where potential new owners can imagine living their lives. Unfortunately, not everyone is pet-friendly and
obvious signs of a pet can be a deterrent for many buyers. The first implication is that pets can, at times, restrict open for inspections either by causing difficulty for the agent, or at worst, offending the buyer. In addition, not only could there be simple fixes such as pet hair that can attract negative attention, but there may also be damage to the home that owners may be overlooking for the sake of their pet. With scratching, chewing, stains, and smells all costing money to repair this can put vendors at a serious disadvantage when negotiating the price for the sale of their home. Buyers can use these small oversights as leverage to either have the vendor pay for repairs or reduce the sale price, either way, costing the vendor money. So while sharing homes with our pets is one of the great joys of life, consider if it is worth the cost to your pet’s wellbeing and your financial future if they stay onsite during the sales process. Temporarily rehoming them or making alternative arrangements may have benefits for you both.
Winners and losers With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker
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n the world we live in, there are usually winners getting good news and losers who are getting bad news (like Mr Trump!). Good news is starting to make a comeback into the media. This will help consumer and business confidence as the government needs us all the spend more money in our domestic economy. Falling Home Loan Interest Rates The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) reduced the official cash rate by 0.15 percent to 0.10 percent last week. The government has also made available money to the lenders on a low interest rate for 4 years. Consequently, most lenders are now offering fixed rates for four year under 2 percent. Two and three year rates are just over 2 percent as well. These rates apply to owner occupiers only and the variable rates and all rates to investors have not seen any decreases recently. So, if you are going to be staying in your home in the next few years, you should be considering fixing some or all of your debt and take advantage of these historically low interest rates. The RBA have also stated that that will keep the official rates at the low levels for a number of years to help stimulate the economy and increase lending and investment.
Local Affordable Property Prices Rising Local sellers are reporting high prices recently. The evidence that I have come across relates to people selling for around 5 to 10 percent more than what they hoped for, for properties under $800,000. There is high demand currently up to this price which is driven by all the government incentives available to first home buyers (as per my article of 1 Oct). For properties over $1,000,000, there is less demand and prices are more stable or falling. When more lenders insist all their borrowers resume making repayments to their home loans, then we should start to see more distressed sellers and price drops may become common in all prices. One of the government incentives (of paying the Lenders Mortgage Insurance) will finish shortly as well as it was capped at 10,000 first home buyers over the whole country. So some clients are selling now for high prices and hoping to upgrade and buy early next year in a falling market with higher number of (distressed) sellers who may be forced to sell if their incomes are not sufficient to resume their repayments. The current losers in this situation are of course the first home buyers who are paying 5 to 10 percent more for the property. Whenever governments stimulate the property market, the buyers always lose, and the sellers always win with higher gains.
SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE
Corona Virus appears to be under control Now life is getting back to normal for most people which will give the economy a much needed boost. However, with international travel and international students unable to resume for a while, some parts of the economy will still be affected for a long time yet. And Now For The Bad News With interest rates decreasing, retired people who live off their interest received from savings are badly affected in the new financial world. As rates paid on savings are close to zero, they have to draw down their savings to survive. Those who rent locally may also see their rents increasing. Supply of investment properties has decreased and demand has increased as people have decided that they prefer to live in the outlying suburbs then the inner CBD areas due to Covid reasons. For example, a small one bedroom converted shed at Lawson is receiving $350 per week in rent. Electricity and water are included but there is no back or side yard or any off street parking. Demand to rent this “shed� was extremely high as well. The above information is of a general nature and you should always get professional advice before taking any action. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 47394500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp. com.au if you what to discuss your situation or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.
Mobile: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au Award winning mortgage broker
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
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SPORT
Avondale win a thriller in Eric Apperly Shield By Noel Rowsell
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vondale GC has won the 2020 Eric Apperly Shield, after the match ended in a 3-3 draw and needed to go to a playoff. Avondale’s number one player Chris Fan proved to be the man of the moment, as the Northern Suburbs club clinched their first Eric Apperly Shield in 55 years. It was the second playoff in two years to decide the Eric Apperly Champions. St Michaels looked to be on the cusp of victory after winning the first 3 match-ups, with wins to Jeffrey Pullen 5/3, Daley Loumains 3/2 and Kelsey Bennett 2up. Avondale responded with wins to both William Bayliss (4/3) and
Avondale GC’s Eric Apperly Shield team with the 2020 Pennant . Photo courtesy of David Tease (Golf NSW). L-R: Will Moody, Grace Kim, Callum Sharp, Nick Brown, Will Bayliss, Henry Hesketh, Chris Fan, Kara Williams and June Song.
Grace Kim (1 up) to set the scene for a grandstand finish as the last pairing fought out a very tight contest.
Fan made a clutch up-and-down for a one-up win, forcing the Shield into a playoff.
The ensuing playoff was a thriller, and man of the moment Fan was a little lost for words after the win. “Harrison is a great player; he’s one of the best players I know,” Fan said. The Eric Apperly Shield is Avondale’s first win in the 70-yearold competition and 55 years since the Club first joined the competition. This year’s competition was also historic for the inclusion of women in the teams. Avondale’s full results were: Chris Fan def Harrison Crowe 1-up, Grace Kim def Jordie Garner 1-up, William Bayliss def Weiliang Wang 4/3, June Song lost to Kelsey Bennett 2-down, Callum Sharp lost to Daley Loumanis 3/2 and William Moody lost to Jeffrey Pullen 5/3. Playoff: Chris Fan defeated Harrison Crowe on the 2nd hole.
Leonay qualifies for playoffs in Junior Pennants By Noel Rowsell
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eonay GC has qualified for the semi-finals of the Junior Pennant competition and will meet Ryde-Parramatta on 29th November, at a venue to be confirmed. The Junior Pennant competition is a 6-person team match-play event, for boys and girls combined. The Sydney Metropolitan Region format has 5 Divisions, with all players / teams playing handicap match-play within their respective division. The winning team from each division then competes against the other division winners in the quarter finals, semi-finals and the final. The overall Metropolitan winner will then compete in a state final series against the teams from District Golf Associations around NSW to find the overall State Junior Pennant Champions. The NSW Golf Association first ran this event in 1952 due to a lack of junior tournaments at that time. When created, the Junior Championship
Back row: Ben Breckenridge, Brock Rodziewicz, Eric Summers, Coby Carruthers, Tate Chambers, Bailey Alexander, Dylan Meikle Front Row: Jake Thompson Kane Harper
was the only event on the calendar specifically for juniors and it was a 36-hole individual stroke event. During this founding year, 5 teams each consisting of 5 players participated in the event but in 1954 the format changed and a second division was added.
Teams in Division One had unlimited handicap restrictions, meaning all 5 players could be off scratch, while in Division 2, two players had to be off a handicap of 6 or less, with the remaining three players on a handicap higher than 6.
There were 5 divisions in 2020 and the local teams competing from the Western Sydney Region this year included Leonay GC, Stonecutters Ridge GC and Richmond GC in Division 4 and Dunheved GC in Division 5). Leonay finished at the top of Division 4, whilst all of the other local teams missed a playoff berth. Dunheved finished tied for 2nd in Division 5, just half a point behind the winning club, whilst Richmond finished 4th and Stonecutters Ridge 5th in Division 4. Lynwood CC and New South Wales GC finished as the lowestranked qualifiers and played off in an elimination quarter final on 15th November at Cumberland CC. Lynwood won 3.5-2.5 and advance to the semi-finals to meet Woolooware GC. (All SF venues still to be announced). The Leonay squad is Coby Carruthers, Eric Summers, Tate Chambers, Bailey Alexander, Kane Harper, Jake Thompson, Brock Rodziewicz.
SPORT
P
enrith City Mayor Cr. Karen McKeown OAM has recognised Western Sydney Academy of Sport 2020 Cyclist of the Year Daniel Samuel for his exceptional achievements. Daniel has been racing BMX for ten years, track cycling for three years and joined the Western Sydney Academy of Sport Cycling program in 2018. After success competing as a BMX athlete, Daniel now focuses primarily on track cycling and in 2020 he placed 3rd in both Sprint and Kerin at the NSW State Championships, both of which were personal bests. As a result of his achievements, Daniel was selected in the 2020 NSW Cycling State team to compete at the National Championships taking place in December 2020. Western Sydney Academy of Sport CEO Martin Bullock commented “Daniel has shown his exceptional
talent and commitment during his involvement in our pre-elite program and deserves strong recognition for his achievements. We very much appreciate Penrith City Council’s support of our wonderful young athletes.” Penrith City Mayor Cr. Karen McKeown OAM presented Daniel with his award saying “I’d like to congratulate Daniel on his success in BMX and track cycling events. Well done on juggling your school responsibilities and your riding, especially during what has been a difficult year. We wish you all the very best for the future in the sport. I’d also like to thank Martin and the Western Sydney Academy of Sport for their dedication to athletes from across our region. The Academy’s development programs and partnerships make sports more accessible and help young people in our City achieve their dreams.”
Canoe Slalom Paddlers get back into racing
I
t has been a long time without racing for Australia’s whitewater paddlers, but last weekend (Sunday, 15 November) Paddle Australia’s NSW canoe slalom paddlers and those based at Penrith Whitewater Stadium got in their first official race of the 2020/21 summer season. Dual Olympian Lucien Delfour, who is set to represent Australia at his second Games in Tokyo next year, spearheaded the 2020 Paddle NSW Canoe Slalom Championships and took home the win in the men’s K1. Fellow 2020 Paddle Australia Senior team members Tim Anderson (NSW) and Benjamin Pope (WA) finished second and third respectively. Following a foot injury, Delfour has only been back in the boat for a few weeks, but despite some ongoing rehab, this did not stop him from taking out the win. “It felt good to be racing, although the event was obviously quite low key due to current restrictions. I wanted to go fast but the goal was to stay safe and focus on keeping things under control as I still have limited range of movement, as well as limited amount of weight I can put on my foot. It will take a few more weeks to recover properly, but it’s all going well,” Delfour explained.
Lucien Delfour - Photo Credit Mackie Kayaking
Nepean News 19 November 2020 Issue 290OWDIG
Penrith City Council recognise Academy Cyclist
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