Nepean News 10 March 2023 DIGITAL

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Active kids voucher swap scheme

Premier Dominic Perrottet said parents would have more choice when it comes to cost of living support with the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s Active Kids and Creative Kids voucher swap initiative.

He said families would be able to use the two vouchers interchangeably from Term 2, letting kids do more of what they love.

“Our Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers have been incredibly popular with parents across the state, with almost 7 million vouchers already downloaded and redeemed saving families $694 million,” mr Perrottet said.

“We want to give our kids the opportunity to do more of the things they love the most, which is why we’re making our voucher program more flexible to better suit each family’s needs.

“Only a Liberal and Nationals Government can take pressure off family budgets thanks to our long-term economic plan to keep our state moving forward.”

Deputy Premier and minister for regional NSW Paul Toole said the change would allow families to lean in to the activities their kids loved.

“Whether it’s playing netball, footy or the violin, we want kids to be able to extract the most out of every day. Helping families with costs like these means they can focus on seeing their kids grow and kick goals, no matter what they love doing,” mr Toole said.

minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said families across the State could use the digital voucher in just a few clicks through the Service NSW app.

“Under a re-elected NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, parents will be able to switch an unused Active Kids voucher for a Creative Kids voucher, or vice versa,” mr Dominello said.

“This is all part of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s commitment to supporting families with more than 70 ways to save across the Savings Finder program.”

The voucher swap program will commence from the start of Term 2 (26 April) and only apply to:

• $100 Active Kids voucher for sport and recreation costs including school holiday programs.

• $100 Creative Kids voucher for arts and cultural activities costs including school holiday classes and workshops.

Families can download their child’s vouchers via the Service NSW app or website and by calling 13 77 88.

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First-time mum Liana barely left her daughter’s side in the beginning of their journey at our Hospital a few months ago.

Baby Olivia was born with her intestines on the outside of her body and since birth, our wards have been the only home she has known.

Liana would continuously spend a week straight at the Hospital to be with Olivia until exhaustion eventually hit. And then she met Ward Grandparent sue.

Ward Grandparents have an important role at our Network in supporting families like Olivia’s. they volunteer a couple of days a week to act as a grandparent for some of the patients who require long-term care.

they visit an individual patient regularly, often sitting with, playing with, cuddling, entertaining and comforting them while giving their parents some reprieve from the stress of hospital.

sue has been a Ward Grandparent for almost 16 years and while she dedicates so much of her time to the

volunteer role, she says she receives far more than she puts in.

“it’s a big satisfaction. You do everything you would do for your own grandchildren,” sue said.

“it is not easy ... but you know that you’re doing something that is worthwhile. the parents appreciate it, the nurses appreciate it, and even the consultants appreciate it. it is wonderful.”

Ward Grandparents work 2 or 3 days a week for approximately 5 hours per day and may work with a child anywhere from a week to a few months.

if you are interested in becoming a Ward Grandparent at CHW, please contact the Ward Grandparent Coordinator in the Department of social Work on 9845 2641 or sCHNCHW-socialWork@health.nsw.gov.au

“I need to fill my cup so I can pour it into hers.”

By staff at s ydney Children’s h os P ital Westmead

$2M investment in women returning to work

LiberaL Candidate for Londonderry, Samantha Talakola, is thrilled with the Liberal Government’s announcement that organisations with projects that empower women and reduce barriers to entering or re-entering the workforce, can now apply for funding to implement tailored programs as part of the new $2 million return to Work Pathways Program.

“The Perrottet Liberal Government is truly invested in empowering, and building real opportunity, for women in Londonderry,” Ms Talakola said.

“This is a game changer for organisations and women looking to return to the workplace in Londonderry,

“it is only the Liberal Government that you can trust to empower local communities and build a stronger New South Wales.”

Minister for Women bronnie Taylor said funding for the return to Work Pathways Program builds on, and complements, the successful return to Work Program, which has already supported more than 3,700 women to enter or return to the workforce.

“The return to Work Pathways Program funds organisations to deliver tailored wraparound supports to women experiencing enduring and complex barriers to employment, and connects women to the services, training and employment opportunities they need to thrive,” Mrs Taylor said.

“This is a real opportunity to build confidence and financial independence of women who need it most.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said the NSW Liberal Government is committed to ensuring that women

who want to work receive the support they need to enter the workforce.

“This new return to Work Pathways Program is part of the commitment made by the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government in the 2022-23 budget to invest $16.5 billion over 10 years to level the playing field for women,” Mr Kean said.

“NSW currently has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 3.1 per cent, in January 2023, and our women’s economic participation rate remains near record highs. but there are women who face barriers and this program will be tailored to those women who need it most.”

Organisations will be able to apply for funding

from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on the project model, the number of participants to be supported, and the level and intensity of services and supports provided to participants.

Funding applications opened on Wednesday, 1 March 2023 and close on Tuesday, 11 april 2023.

The return to Work Pathways Program aligns with the NSW Women’s Strategy 2023-2026 which fosters economic opportunity and advancement; health and wellbeing; and participation and empowerment for women and girls.

For more information and details on how to apply, go to return to Work Pathways Program | NSW Government

Labor: Ambulances under increased pressure

NSW Labor Leader Chris Minns says the release of the latest Bureau of health Information (BHI) confirms “nearly 100,000 people in New South Wales are still waiting for elective surgery” and “NSW Ambulance is under sustained pressure with more responses than in any quarters since BhI began reporting in 2010.”

“There were more than 67,000 people who left the emergency Departments without receiving the treatment they desperately needed,” Mr Minns said.

The Labor Leader said in a press release that almost half the patients presenting to the eD did not have their treatment start on time, that almost 40 per cent of patients with life-threatening conditions, like cardiac or respiratory arrest, waited longer than the 10-minute target for an ambulance to arrive. Almost 100,000 people were on elective surgery waiting lists at the end of December, he added.

“The Liberals’ cap on the wages of our nurses, paramedics and allied health workers is making it harder to recruit and retain people in these essential roles, making understaffing in our hospitals even worse,” the statement read.

“It’s not fair on our hardworking healthcare professionals to have to manage a system that is stretched to its limits.

“Another set of BhI results that clearly show what we have been saying for a long time now; this is not a health system that is coping.

“More than 67,000 people walked into an emergency Department and turned around and left without receiving their treatment.

“It’s why NSW Labor will begin the long overdue

task of repairing and reforming our health care system across New South Wales.

“We’ll introduce safe staffing levels in NSW hospitals, starting with eDs. It will help with workloads, it will take pressure of nurses and ensure they can treat patients with the care they deserve and need.

“We all pay the price when there aren’t enough staff in our hospitals.”

Ryan Park, NSW Shadow Minister for health

said the data does not paint a picture of a healthy system.

“It confirms what we already knew, hospitals across the state and particularly in Western Sydney that are under continued pressure,” Mr Park said.

“Whether it is Nepean, Westmead or Blacktown, all major hospitals continue to show they are under resourced and struggling to cope with increased demand.”

Investing in better justice for aboriginal people

The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has announced the staged commencement of circle sentencing at Penrith Courthouse, as part of a $20 million investment over four years in Aboriginal justice initiatives.

Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, welcomed the announcement, saying it was important for Western Sydney.

“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to working closely and collaboratively with Aboriginal communities to address the disproportionate rates of Aboriginal incarceration.

“I am delighted to see that Penrith Courthouse is expected to take referrals from April,” Mr Ayres said.

“This announcement is a key milestone for Aboriginal justice initiatives in Western Sydney, and demonstrates the commitment of the Liberals and Nationals to invest in community-led initiatives that address the underlying causes of crime.”

Circle sentencing is an alternative sentencing method in which a local court magistrate works with Aboriginal elders, victims, respected members of the community and the offender’s family to determine the appropriate sentence.

In addition to Penrith Courthouse, NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman also announced the staged commencement of circle sentencing at seven further locations across New South Wales.

“Since the circle sentencing program began as a pilot in Nowra 21 years ago this month, more than 1,518 circle sentencing sittings have been held for Aboriginal offenders, helping them to address the causes of their behaviour and turn their lives around,” Mr Speakman said.

“The circle sentencing program has proven that the justice system can work with Aboriginal communities on common goals of reducing re-offending and helping victims of crime in their recovery.”

A 2020 study by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research showed that, compared with those sentenced in traditional ways, Aboriginal offenders participating in circle sentencing are 9.3 percentage points (51.7 per cent) less likely to go to prison, 3.9 percentage points (9.6 per cent) less likely to re-offend within 12 months and (if they do reoffend) take 55 days longer to reoffend.

Please helP get Mia to Germany for treatment

Hi I’m Karen, I am trying to raise funds for this beautiful young family so that they can travel to Germany to get the cancer treatment they need so desperately for their little girl, Mia Shannon. Mia is a beautiful vibrant little girl who is living with Medullablastoma. She was diagnosed with this horrible cancer when she was 5. She unfortunately has relapsed, and she needs this very important treatment called Hyperthermia. This cutting edge treatment is a huge advancement in way of cancer treatment and has given many people so many more years of life, and sometimes a cure. This is what we are hoping for, for Mia.

We have liased with Neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo and Dr Hüseyin Sahinbas in Germany, and also spoken to a previous patient of theirs who is now still alive 20 years later. There is always hope, we are hoping this is Mia’s hope. Obviously Stacey and Rob have been hit hard financially having to travel so far, but unfortunately this treatment is not yet available in Australia and she desperately needs it. With your help we can make it possible, no matter how big or small your donation, it will be so very much appreciated by the family.

Thank you so much. We will keep you up to date as the next part of Mia’s journey happens.

Today’s coffee cups paving tomorrow’s roads

The take-away coffee cup that you had your coffee in this morning could be in the road you drive on tomorrow, under a revolutionary Australian-first recycling project for sustainable road surfaces.

Penrith City Council has partnered with State Asphalt Services for the resurfacing of 390 metres of Jamison Road at South Penrith, and 350 metres of Swallow Drive, erskine Park where the PAK-PAVeTM road surface will include a mixture containing almost 136,000 coffee cups.

In addition to the cups, the asphalt will include over 1.2 million glass bottles – a mix that has proven successful in the resurfacing of 8.4 kms of pavement throughout the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA).

Penrith Mayor Tricia hitchen said Council is proud to be leading the way in a move that leads to a more sustainable circular economy and delivers a high-quality road surface for all road users.

“Council has a proven track record when it comes to re-using waste products in innovative ways, and this is yet another way of reducing landfill by giving a waste product new life in an alternative use,” Cr hitchen said.

“With over 1,208 km of roads maintained by Penrith City Council, and countless kilometres of state roads

in our LGA, we have the opportunity to make our roads far more environmentally friendly through the use of recycled materials.”

“Road users may not notice the subtle differences between PAKPAVeTM and other road surfaces under normal driving conditions apart from it being quieter, however in adverse conditions the new surface is reported to improve braking and wet weather performance,” Cr hitchen said.

John Kypreos, Director of State Asphalts NSW said, “I’m incredibly proud of the team at State Asphalts NSW and our collaborating partners,

who have worked tirelessly over the past three years to develop PAKPAVe™ Roads.”

“We have enjoyed great support from government at all levels to get to this point and congratulate Penrith Council for being the first to use PAKPAVe™ Roads.”

Closed Loop Managing Director, Rob Pascoe, was equally enthusiastic.

“The Simply Cups program has saved more than 30 million paper cups such as coffee cups and take-away soft drink cups from landfill since beginning in 2017,” said Mr Pascoe.

“We have explored dozens of practical applications for the cups

which contain very high-quality fibre but are challenging to recycle because of their waterproof lining.”

The cups being used in the PAKPAVeTM surface are collected through Simply Cups, an initiative by Closed Loop, with 85% of the paper cups collected for recycling in the Penrith LGA in 2022 being used in these roads. Simply Cups is Australia’s largest paper cups recycling program and uses innovative technology capable of mixing used cups with other materials to produce items of higher value. To find a collection point, go to www.simplycups.com. au/locations

Key numbers

• Approx. 72,000 coffee cups are being used in the road surface on Jamison Road, South Penrith

• Approx. 64,000 coffee cups are being used in the road surface on Swallow Drive, erskine Park

• Approx. 136,000 takeaway cups have been diverted from landfill for this project.

• Glass bottle equivalents (using VB stubby as a reference point) >765,000 bottles (Jamison Road) + >450,000 (Swallow Drive) = 1.2 million bottles

• The asphalt contains other recycled materials: Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement, Steel Furnace Slag

• Total recycled content in the asphalt for this project is greater than 50%.

Westinvest funds $15 million for Penrith Lakes

PeNRITh LAKeS moves a step closer to being one of NSW’s key tourism, recreation and sporting destinations with the NSW Government investing $15 million to progress the development of the area and the Penrith Lakes Development Corporation transferring almost 200-hectares of conservation Land to the Government.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said the $15 million investment, part of the NSW Government’s $5 billion WestInvest Program, will allow the Government to collaborate and coordinate with key

stakeholders to progress the important project.

“The $5 billion WestInvest program is funding transformational infrastructure projects across Western Sydney, home to one of the fastest growing and most diverse populations in the nation,” Stuart Ayres said.

“Through WestInvest, we have a real opportunity to address access to open spaces as well as cultural, recreational and lifestyle facilities that will unlock future economic growth in the region and improve the health and wellbeing of Western Sydney’s

residents.

“That’s why the NSW Government has allocated $15 million to the Western Parkland City Authority to collaborate and coordinate with key stakeholders to progress the development of the Penrith Lakes precinct as a key tourism, recreation and sporting destination.

“Penrith Lakes is an important part of our community and the NSW Government is working on ensuring the best future for this area,” Stuart Ayres said.

New courses to tackle construction skills demand

NSW is set for a construction skills boom with the unveiling of 11 fully subsidised courses at the new Institute of Applied Technology – Construction in Penrith.

The Institute, located at Kingswood, is a partnership between TAFe NSW, leading construction company CPB Contractors, and Western Sydney University to co-design and codeliver construction skills training.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said the Institute, which will open in the second half of 2023, is now taking enrolments to rapidly upskill existing construction workers in areas of high demand, including project management, leadership, and digital construction.

This new, innovative education model combines

the expertise of industry, vocational, and higher education to deliver the future-focused skills we need to meet the state’s infrastructure pipeline and the growing needs of the NSW economy,” Stuart Ayres said.

“These fully subsidised courses provide students with the real-world practical training and digital skills needed to work on major infrastructure projects in New South Wales, future-proofing our construction workforce.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister henskens said the construction workforce is expected to grow by another 66,000 workers by 2026, including over 11,000 construction managers.

“Learners can stack multiple microcredentials, which can be used to turbocharge their careers and

create the next generation of construction industry leaders,” said Mr henskens.

“These new courses ensure students are highly skilled, ready to take on roles as construction and project managers with specialist skills that include contract administration, frontline leadership, building information modelling, and digital skills.”

To meet this increasing industry demand, the Institute will offer a combination of flexible microskills and microcredentials to make it easier for workers to get the job-specific skills they need.

To explore the exciting range of microskills and microcredentials at the Institute of Applied Technology – Construction, visit www.iat.nsw.edu.au

State Emergency Operations Controller urges community to ‘beat the heat’ safely

Residents and visitors in nsW are being urged to heed health and safety advice as the weather heats up across the state.

the Bureau of Meteorology has predicted significantly warmer conditions this week, with some areas expected to exceed 40 degrees.

State Emergency Operations Controller, Deputy Commissioner Emergency Management Peter Thurtell, urged the community to make safety the priority and not take unnecessary risks.

“During extremely hot weather, we often see an increase in tragic incidents including drownings, falls from windows or balconies, and kids, pets or vulnerable people suffering distress or injury from being left in a hot car,” Deputy Commissioner thurtell said.

“i cannot stress strongly enough how dangerous it can be to leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle – and on a hot day, it only takes a matter of minutes to become deadly.

“Anyone who locates children, vulnerable people or pets unattended in a vehicle, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.”

Under the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act, the maximum penalty for leaving children and young persons unsupervised in a motor vehicle is to $22,000. Significant penalties may apply in the event of injury or death.

Deputy Commissioner Thurtell reminded those planning to stay cool in, on or around the water to check the conditions, obey the rules, and look out for each other.

“It has been a devastating summer season, with more than 20 lives already lost in NSW waterways, so all emergency services and rescue organisations are again pleading for people to think before they swim,” Deputy Commissioner Thurtell said.

“I especially urge tourists, campers, and other holidaymakers who are in unfamiliar environments to take extra care when swimming.

“At the beach, always swim between the flags and listen to the directions and advice of surf lifesavers – please do not take a risk and swim at an unpatrolled area.”

Information about being beach safe, including locations and times for patrolled beaches is available online: https://beachsafe.org.au.

Deputy Commissioner Thurtell added that it was important to look after your health in hot weather – and important to think about the health of others.

“Some people are at higher risk of heat illness, especially if they are older, live alone or are socially-isolated, so if you know someone who may need assistance, reach out to them,” Deputy

Commissioner Thurtell said.

“There is also a wide range of health information and advice on the Beat the Heat page of nsW Health’s website.”

Important Beat the Heat advice includes:

• Stay well-hydrated

• Avoid alcohol and hot or sugary drinks

• Limit your physical activity

• Try to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day

• If you can, spend some time in an air-conditioned building

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton

• Regularly check your forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology on radio, TV, internet or App

• Get advice from your doctor about whether your medication and/or your medical conditions may affect what you should do if it gets extremely hot

• Make sure you know who you are going to call (who may need help, and who could provide help to you if needed); make a list of telephone numbers and make sure they are current

For more information, visit: www.health.nsw.gov. au/environment/beattheheat/Pages/default.aspx

Livestock and pet owners are also urged to look out for animal health by ensuring adequate clean water is always available and that shading is provided where possible. Additionally, no animals should be left in confined, unventilated areas.

Deputy Commissioner Thurtell said the other consideration for the community in extreme heat is the risk of bushfires.

“When the weather heats up, we generally see higher fire dangers and the NSW Rural Fire Service will often declare total fire bans in areas to reduce the risk of catastrophe,” Deputy Commissioner Thurtell said.

“Not only should be members of the community be up to date on fire conditions, but they must also consider the risk an open flame or use of a solid fuel burner outside may pose with the fire danger of the day.

“Significant penalties apply depending on the incident, so it’s important to know your responsibilities.”

Lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban attracts an on the spot fine of $2,200. If the matter goes to court, you could be subject to a fine of up to $5,500 and/or 12 months in prison.

Penalties for a fire that escapes and damages or destroys life, property or the environment can attract much greater fines and gaol terms with maximums at $132,000 and/or 14 years in prison.

Members of the public can access bushfire preparedness advice and up-to-the-minute warnings on the nsW RFs website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

More information about weather forecasts and warnings is available on the Bureau of Meteorology website: www.bom.gov.au

Luddenham Show

The 117th Luddenham Show returned on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th March, following a two-year hiatus, featuring bull rides, the eljay Freestyle Motorbike and BMX Stunt/ Comedy Show, wheelie bin races, gumboot throwing, sheep dog trials, dog high jump, demolition derby and wood-chopping, along with two days of horse competitions, poultry and cattle events.

The traditional Poet’s Breakfast highlighted a range of talented entertainers performing across the weekend, including singers, dancers, magicians, reptile shows, a bush balladeer and the new Lego Master Creators competition.

By Noel Rowsell

Orchard hills Veterinary hOspital

Ph 4736 2027

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Wet weather woes

infection occurs as a result of selfinflicted trauma. Hot spots are common in hot, humid weather after increased rainfall. Fleas are also a common stimulus but hot, wet weather, long thick coats, allergies, and anything that causes scratching can result in hot spots. Veterinary attention to reduce the spread of infection is important.

By Kellie

WiTh extra rain comes flooding, and with the rising water comes a new set of concerns for our pets. Flooding encourages rodents and wildlife to move into new areas as well as an increased number of insects due to the added moisture and humidity. As pet parents, we need to be on the lookout for the hidden dangers.

Mosquitoes and Heartworm - Mosquitoes thrive and reproduce in wet areas. This includes rivers, dams and puddles. The risk of heartworm disease will also increase with the mosquito problem. Mosquitoes carry heartworm and can transfer them to your pet when they feed. Be sure your pets are on a yearly heartworm injection or all year-round monthly heartworm preventative.

Leptospirosis - Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is shed in the urine of rodents, and urinecontaminated water is ideal for Leptospirosis survival. Rodents are the main shedders of this disease, but many mammals can become susceptible, including humans. Dogs with leptospirosis have kidney and liver issues and these organs often fail, resulting in death. An extra vaccine can be added to your dog’s vaccination program to prevent this disease.

Hot-Spots - Pyotraumatic Dermatitis gets its name from lesions that are warm to the touch. This acute, rapidly developing, surface bacterial skin

Ringworm - Ringworm, a fungal infection, also increases with the hot, humid weather. Fungal infections are soil-born but require rougher surfaces to attach. Bruising, scratches or hot spots can give fungal infections that foothold on skin. Cats are especially susceptible to ringworm.

Giardia - Giardia is a one-celled, moisture-loving parasite that lives in the small intestine of infected animals. These animals shed Giardia in their faeces, and flooding moves contaminated water to different areas. Other pets can become ill from drinking contaminated water, so maintaining a clean, well-drained environment is essential. Symptoms of giardia may include mucus diarrhoea and stomach cramps.

if you suspect your pet is suffering from any medical condition, please phone and chat with the friendly staff at Orchard hills Veterinary hospital on 4736 2027.

Tic K ner, Orchard h ills

Veterinary hO spital a dministratO r

Special treat for music fans

What would the music of the Baroque period have been like if Bach and Vivaldi wrote with today’s rock, jazz and electro-pop?

For anyone new to classical music or who wants to hear it in a completely different way – don’t miss internationally acclaimed ‘rockstar’ of the violin, alexandre Da Costa, live on stage with his jazz trio along with the Penrith Youth Orchestra, for one show only.

armed with his 1701 Stradivarius violin, this electrifying concert takes you on an exhilarating journey to revisit the composers who lived in the time of Louis XIV.

From Vivaldi as rock, jazz-tinged Bach and Pachelbel’s famous Canon with a backbeat, these are the classics as you have never heard them before –with some contemporary favourites by Queen, hendrix and Leonard Cohen. a unique fusion of genres, this symphonic celebration will delight, excite, and inspire music lovers of all ages.

Since 2019 Da Costa has been Chief Conductor and artistic Director of the Orchestre Symphonique de Longueuil (OSDL) in Montréal, Québec. he is a SONY Classical artist and JUNO award-winner, amoung his many accolades, he counts the prestigious

Virginia-Parker Prize, one of Canada’s highest cultural distinctions, the Sylva Gelber Foundation award from the Canada Council for the arts, and first prize in the International Violin Competition Pablo Sarasate.

Penrith Youth Orchestra (PYO) is the evolution of the highly successful Penrith Strings ensemble that was established in 2015 by the australian Chamber Orchestra (aCO), Penrith Symphony Orchestra (PSO), and Penrith Conservatorium of Music at the Joan Sutherland Performing arts Centre. In 2018 PYO was launched to expand orchestral skills training and performance opportunities for young musicians in Western Sydney.

Stradivarius BaROCK is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing arts Centre on Sunday 12 March at 3pm. tickets: Standard $45. Concession $40. Student $20. www.thejoan.com. au/events/stradivarius-barock/

Blue Mountains Woodturners Mini Symposium

Blue Mountains Wood-turners group is hosting a Mini symposium at nepean Creative and Performing arts Hs on sunday 19th March, running from 8.30am-3.30pm. there will be 8 experts presenting on the day, including George Hatfield, Mike Darlow, Ernie newman, simon Begg, Catherine Gorrie, Brendon Venner, Jan Palmowski and Lindsay Skinner, who will be displaying their respective skills in turning, burning, carving and colouring wood.

the Blue Mts Wood-turners Group has been

meeting at Mt Riverview in the Blue Mountains since early 2000.

Monthly meetings regularly attract over 40 active and interested wood-turners, who want to learn more about the craft and encourage others to enjoy the pleasures of wood-turning.

the group has a number of very accomplished traditional turners, several with trade wood-turning certificates. Some members are also exploring contemporary design and have been written up in australian and overseas publications.

small wood-turning classes are run at both beginner and advanced levels.

The members make and donate toys, large chess sets and other items to charities and local schools, and have been the subject of articles in the australian Woodworker magazine (January 2001 and May 2016).

the monthly newsletter ‘turning Chatter’ includes news, tips, projects and designs.

You can visit the group’s news page to find out more. www.bluemtnswoodturners.org.au/news

alternatively, contact John Mulquin 0407 709 351 or jhmhbm@bigpond.net.au

the event sponsors are Blue Mountains Woodturners and Australian Woodworker Magazine.

By Noel Rowsell

First survey exhibition in 20 years of Margo Lewers

The first survey exhibition in 20 years of Margo Lewers at Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest opens on Saturday 18 March.

Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest is delighted to announce A House Full of Paintings, an exhibition of the art and life of Margo Lewers (1908 – 1978), the 20th Century Modernist artist. The exhibition opens on Saturday 18 March and goes through 14 May.

The exhibition celebrates the power and range of Margo Lewers in the first curated survey exhibition of her works in over 20 years. Margo worked in a variety of mediums including painting, textiles, sculpture and mosaic, winning her recognition as a leading Postwar Abstract Expressionist.

A House Full of Paintings includes paintings, collages, mosaics, fabric hangings, and plexiglass sculptures, set amidst the beauty of her original homestead and heritage garden. Also included is a never-before-seen collection of Margo’s collages, as well as her hand-made Christmas cards and documentation of her mosaics.

The exhibition reflects on a time in the late 1960s when Margo lived alone in her former home, now the Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest. Her husband, the sculptor Gerald Lewers had since passed, and her daughters Darani and Tanya were pursuing their own careers in Sydney.

As Margo prepared for the first solo exhibition of her work to be held at home in the recently converted Ancher House Gallery, she set the scene, proclaiming in an interview for an article entitled ‘A House Full of Paintings’, ’it’s a house without people, its only inhabitants are paintings’.

Paintings were hung in the kitchen and prints covered the walls in the bathroom. The experience of painting was expanded beyond the frame into the artist’s entire domestic environment, in the form of floor mosaics, interior design, architecture,

and Margo’s beloved garden that she designed and maintained well into her later years. It was a curiosity as much as a celebration, as guests wandered through the exhibition spaces, and in and out of buildings and rooms that had housed her family and friends for decades.

Half a century later, Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest pays homage as much as to a phenomenal artist as to the power of place, as a site of creative endeavour, experimentation, friendship, and family.

Toby Chapman, Director, Visual Arts, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts said: ‘As the custodians of the largest collection of Lewers’ work –and indeed to her home and gardens

– we are thrilled by the opportunity to highlight the artistic experimentation and triumphs that characterised Margo’s life. A House Full of Paintings draws into focus the sheer ambition and breadth of Lewers’ practice, and we hope it will provide our audience with an opportunity to reflect on her anachronistic life, lived here in the suburbs of Emu Plains.’

Nina Stromqvist, Curatorial Programs Manager, Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest said: ‘Margo Lewers helped define and enrich the Australian Modernist tradition with her unrestrained creativity and force, the impacts of which still reverberate today. It’s been an absolute delight to work with the original Bequest and pay homage to

the art and life of a phenomenal artist.’

Margo strongly desired her Emu Plains property to be left as an artistic hub, and prior to her death, began the process of bequeathing her home and collection of artworks to the local community. Through the generosity and persistence of her daughters Darani Lewers and Tanya Crothers, and with vocal community support, Margo’s wishes were fulfilled. The property and collection of artworks were gifted to Penrith City Council and in 1981, the Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest was opened.

Margo was included in the Know My Name: Australian Women Artists 1900 to Now exhibition at The National Gallery of Australia in 2021-22.

A House Full of Paintings will be officially opened on 18 March by Alison McLaren, Chair of Penrith Performing and Visual Arts, with opening remarks by Denise Mimmocchi, Senior Curator of Australian Art, Art Gallery of NSW and Toby Chapman, Director, Visual Arts, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts.

The recently published book Margo Lewers: no limits will be available to purchase at the opening event. It brings new insights to the creativity and range of Margo’s career with first-hand accounts of personal experiences and independent, original research by the contributing authors, which include her two daughters Darani Lewers and Tanya Crothers, both of whom Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest is honoured to have in attendance on the day.

A documentary film based on the book by Tor Larsen, Margo’s grandson, will also be screened throughout the day.

A House Full of Paintings exhibition opening is on at Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest on Saturday 18 March 1pm - 3pm. The exhibition runs from 18 March - 14 May www.penrithregionalgallery. com.au/events/margo-lewers-ahouse-full-of-paintings/

Worthington Family in Court

By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

John oliver Worthington was born in Penrith in 1868 to John & Matilda Worthington. he married Caroline Teasdell at newtown in 1889. In April 1892 Caroline was suing John for maintenance in the Penrith Police Court where she stated that she was the wife of John and was twenty years of age and had two children and it was a fortnight since she received any support from him. She said she remembered on Wednesday 31st March John went away to play at a ball, and on that occasion she was sitting in her house with Paul harford who had been there a few hours before, when the front door burst open and Alfred and William Worthington came in with a man named o’Keefe who stayed outside, when a certain accusation was made about her by Alfred. She have not been guilty of any wrongful familiarity with Paul harford because he came to see if she would continue to work for him as she had been working for him before and he had brought some news from Sydney about her family there. John was a friend of Paul’s and had often asked him around to stay at the house for an hour or two. Adultery was John’s defence. Caroline said that Paul harford remained for half an hour until John came home so as to explain matters to him, but John did not come home until the next night and came in with his brother and took her eldest daughter and told her to get out of the place by the next morning. on the Saturday following he came back and said that if she would go to her family in Sydney he would give her the furniture, but she said she would not go and then he said that if she did not go he would put her out and charge her with adultery and would say that was why he was leaving her. John said his brother had told him what was said on Friday and he believed him and he came and took the furniture. Some of the furniture had been given to her by his brother and he took her bed away and everything in the house. She said that John can earn £2 a week if he works and sometimes he plays at dances and gets 15 shillings a night and she is prepared to take that amount a week for her support. Caroline said that John told her to clear out because she had committed adultery with Paul harford, but it was close to 9 o’clock when Paul came to her house on the night when John’s two brothers broke in, between eleven and twelve o’clock at night. It is a four-roomed cottage facing the main road and there is no hall in the house. We were sitting in the dining room at the table and we were not playing cards or had any music from the time Paul came in. She had not been charged with improper conduct with Paul harford before but she had been told that her husband’s brothers were always around the house and had a bad opinion of her. She was not on her back on the bed. They didn’t come to the bedroom door and strike a match and she didn’t say Paul was only having a lark with her. John took her child from her and it is over twelve months ago since she worked for Paul and her husband did not refuse to allow her to work for him twelve months ago. John’s brother Alf said, “I have been watching you for six months” and she did not say to Alf in the front room “Come here you bastard I want

to talk to you” and he did not say “I will talk to you when we get justice”. Caroline said that Alf said to Paul “that you have been in the bedroom with “Carrie” and he was watching through the window shutter” and she said that she had not been in the bedroom with Paul harford. Alf then said’ “remember Carrie I’ve got plenty of money and I don’t care if it costs me £500 to see you parted “ and he called her a “bloody woman”. She said that he abused her at her front door about two years ago and said he would give a hundred to get her parted from “Jacky”. Paul harford said he has a boot factory at St Marys and he remembered being at John’s place once when the door was broken open. he was in the habit of calling there when John was present and no undue familiarity occurred that night or at any other time and he has never behaved or tried to behave improperly with Mrs Worthington at any time. he stayed in the house for some time hoping John would return but he didn’t know John was at Mulgoa that night. next Alice Musgrave said that she was a married woman residing in Sydney and she received a telegram from her sister and came to St Marys where she saw Caroline in rather a delicate state of health. She was present when John came and took the furniture out of the house and then came back for the bed where the baby was sleeping. he took the baby handing it to a boy who was standing by and said, “throw this bloody kid on the floor” and she said, “you’re a coward and no man would take the bed from under her”. John then said ‘“hold your tongue you bloody woman” and she struck him and he called out help, help, help and his brother rushed in and caught her by the throat and she waved her arm around and knocked him to the floor. At this stage the Bench suggested that to save a great deal of unpleasantness, an amicable arrangement might be arrived at between the parties, but John would not agree to a settlement in any shape or form. In July 1893 Caroline was in court again where orders were made for support from John for the three girls for five shillings a week each for twelve months. In September 1898 John sought a divorce from Caroline on the grounds of adultery with William nutland on more than one occasion. The decree was granted to John and he gained custody of the children. In 1910 John married Agnes Horrigan. He died five years later at the Western Suburbs hospital. John met with an accident at the homebush Saleyards while inspecting a horse he intended buying. he was knocked down and trodden on his head and hip. he was moved to the hospital where he remained only a few days as it was thought he was sufficiently recovered to go home. On the following Saturday he had to be taken to the hospital again when lockjaw set in and he died never regaining consciousness after his admission to the hospital. The funeral took place at St Mary Magdalene Church and Cemetery at St Marys with Reverend Bowers officiating and Mrs John Price and Son having charge of the funeral arrangements. There is no headstone Source: Nepean Times, Trove, NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages online, Ancestry.

 Photo of the church in 1936 before the outside was rendered is from the files of the Society.

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Have we reached peak inflation already?

will also remove incentives for investors to purchase an investment property.

Rising RentsRents have risen over 32 percent across Australia over the last 12 months. Demand is also increasing and supply has reduced as well. Anyone who has been trying to rent a property locally or renew their lease will confirm the financial strain and stress is real and severe.

This financial stress is made worse due to overall higher cost of living due to inflation at around 7.5 percent, but smaller wage increases of only around 3 percent. the difference is being deducted from peoples savings (if they have any savings still).

there is no short-term solution to this problem. some people are suggesting a rent freeze or limit to any increases to apply to all rent renewals. However, if the investment property owner’s interest and other bills are too high, they will often sell the property which will reduce supply further. Any rent restrictions

Rental demand is also set for a large increase in demand to cater for the 200,000 immigrants and thousands of international students set to arrive over the next 12 months.

so apart from moving to a cheaper area, what can you do?

In europe and Asia, it is very common that families share housing and the associated costs together. this is something that most Aussies find very difficult to do, even sharing with siblings or sharing with adult children back in the family home. You can share housing costs when renting but, if possible, always best to buy your own property and get off the rent cycle and trap.

Many single income families are unable to buy a property anywhere in the greater sydney region. But by buying together with other family members or even good friends, you can pool your incomes and savings for a larger deposit and larger borrowing capacity.

the Commonwealth Bank even

has a home loan structure that allows people to buy a property and have separate loans, called a Property share Loan. this is designed for people who aren’t in a relationship, and having their own separate loan for only their portion of the debt.

Property Pricesthe current local prices correction may also be coming to an end. there is good demand for the more affordable properties but there are recent signs of increasing demand for the middle and higher priced properties as well. One reason for this is the low number of properties coming onto the market (lowest in more than 6 years). there are enough confident buyers in the market to absorb these properties now as vendors have adjusted their prices to what the market will pay.

Peak InflationThere are good signs that inflation in Australia, UsA, UK and other economies, may have already peaked at the end of 2022. Inflation data typically takes 3 to 6 months to be accounted for and the Reserve Banks of the world often overshoot the interest rate increases used to reduce

demand, spending and ultimately, inflation.

the costs to transport goods by sea around the world and oil prices have been dramatically reduced over the last 6 or so months. Local petrol prices are still high but should reduce as well. the higher costs for housing and rent are not included in our inflation measure though.

If demand for goods and services decreases and the costs to industry to supply goods and services also decrease, then inflation will reduce.

If employers get nervous and reduce their number of employees and unemployment starts to increase above 4 to 5 percent (closer to normal levels), then we could see the RBA starting to decrease interest rates around Xmas or early next year perhaps.

this information is of a general nature only. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you want to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

Panthers and Comets share debut night in NBL1 East

By Noel Rowsell

The Penrith Panthers senior basketball teams begin their debut season in the NBL1 east competition, meeting fellow debutantes the Sydney City Comets on Saturday night at the Alexandria Basketball Stadium, 53-57 Maddox Street, Alexandria. Men at 5:30pm, Women at 7:30pm.

Penrith women’s head coach Bernie Slattery said “We have a diverse group of players, with (WNWBL guard) Tahlia Tupaea and (former US College centre) Meg Jefferson being the spearheads.

“Both Brook McInnes and Franny Spadina, neither of whom have played in over a decade, being over 40 will add experience, but may struggle with the speed and physicality of the league.

“I see Franny, emily Matthews, and Dominica Faber (nee Offner) as being

critical pieces of the puzzle. We have 3 mothers, 4 school teachers, and 2 over 40’s in our group and our biggest issue is, that as a new team in the league, we have many players who have not played in the last two years.

“Knowing this, we are aware that a slow start to our first season will not be seen as a failure, but a starting point.

“Many of the clubs have recruited American imports and WNBL players,

and have big budgets, whilst we will not be paying many of our players at all.

“I find it difficult to forecast what our results may be, but am confident that the girls will represent the community with pride and that we will have a crack!

“Franny will be in the starting five, and this is testament to her ongoing personal fitness regime. She will be our

captain and has taken the time to get to know all the girls. As a head teacher (PDhPe), she is a natural leader and has the respect of the group. I first coached Franny almost 30 years ago!

“Unfortunately, we have already lost Abbi Williams for the season, with an ACL high-grade tear, before a game is played, which is terrible for Abbi (her 3rd ACL injury).

The Comets have recruited strongly for their debut season, luring former junior and current Sydney Flames WNBL player Vanessa Panoussis, along with Flames

WNBL Development Players Jada Crawshaw and Dru Toleafoa.

The Panthers will run a Men’s squad untested at this level, whereas the Comets have signed Sydney Kings NBL Development Player Iggy Mitchell. Opening night could well be a litmus test for how the Panthers will fare in their debut season.

Local Rowers Win Gold at Inter-Schools Championship

By Noel Rowsell

The 2023 ChS Inter-Schools Rowing Championships were held recently at the Penrith Regatta Centre, with two local girls winning gold medals.

“We had ten local rowers compete for their schools at the Combined high Schools’ Rowing Championships, which were held at the Penrith Regatta Centre,” said Daniel Waddell, Rowing Coordinator at Nepean Rowing Club.

“There were over 200 competitors at the event in total, and we (Nepean Rowing Club) had two standout rowers, Viti Young and emily Boyes, who won their under 16 Double, along with combining with rowers from three other schools to win the Inter-Regional Quad race.”

2023 Australian Canoe Slalom team confirmed

By Noel Rowsell

FOLLOWINg selection trials at the Penrith Open and Australian Open, Paddle Australia (PA) has announced the senior, U23 and junior teams that will represent Australia in 2023, headed by Olympic gold medallist Jessica Fox and dual Olympian Lucien Delfour.

“Paddle Australia is very pleased to announce the athletes who have been selected to our Australia Canoe Slalom teams for 2023,” said Kim Crane, National Performance Director.

“Our Canoe Slalom team is world class, boasting a mix of youth and experience across both the kayak and canoe boats.

“This year will be a massive year for our Canoe Slalom program, with the Senior World Championships in London the first chance to earn quotas for the Paris 2024 Olympic games.

“Special thanks to the National Centre of excellence, pathways and club coaches and support teams that continue to support our athletes in becoming the world’s best paddlers and world’s best people.

“The international season is fast approaching, and we’re looking forward to seeing our Australian Canoe Slalom team in action as we continue to countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympic games.”

Paddle Australia CeO Phil Jones said “On behalf of Paddle Australia, I’d like to congratulate the athletes

selected to the Australian Canoe Slalom teams for 2023.

“After seeing them all race on home soil earlier this year, I’m excited to see what they can do across the World Cup season and at the World Championships.

“I’d like to thank the team of volunteers, officials and selectors that made the selection events possible, and wish this group of athletes the very best of luck for the upcoming international season.”

Senior World Championships Team: WK1 - Jessica Fox, Noemie Fox, Kate eckhardt; MK1 - Lucien Delfour, Tim Anderson, Ben Pope; WC1 - Jessica Fox, Noemie Fox, Kate eckhardt; MC1 - Tristan Carter, Brodie Crawford, Kaylen Bassett.

World Cup team: WK1 - Jessica Fox, Noemie

Fox, Kate eckhardt, georgie O’Callaghan; MK1Lucien Delfour, Tim Anderson, Ben Pope, Sebastian Montalto; WC1 - Jessica Fox, Noemie Fox, Kate eckhardt; MC1 - Tristan Carter, Brodie Crawford, Kaylen Bassett, Mark Crossbee.

U23 World Championship Team: WK1 - georgie O’Callaghan, Claire Clements, Abby Collins; MK1 - hamish Dalziel, Sebastian Montalto, Joshua Montalto; WC1 - georgie O’Callaghan; MC1 - Mark Crosbee, Declan ellis, Benjamin Ross.

Junior World Championship Team: WK1 - Alicia Berryman, Sarah Crossbee, Codie Davidson; MK1 - Dominic Curtin, Riley galea, James Stamp; WC1 - Sarah Crossbee, Claire Clements, Codie Davidson; MC1 - Dominic Curtin, Archie Nelson, hunter Florisson.

Jess Fox and Ben Pope in action during the 2023 Australian Open. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Emily Boyes and Viti Young - gold medallists at the 2023 CHS Inter-Schools Rowing Championships - photos supplied

Penrith NBL1 East captains Franny Spadina and Luke Griffiths. Photos supplied.

Double Gold again for Sharp at NSW Open Athletic Championships

LocaL junior Layla Sharp ( c ranebrook

/ Emmaus catholic college / Runcrew) has won two gold medals at the NSW open

athletics championships, taking out the ambulant 400m in a personal best time on Day one, followed by victory in the ambulant 800m on Sunday.

“It does not get any tighter than this,” said Sam Sharp (Layla’s mother), with Layla winning the

800m by the narrowest of margins. “also not only gold but another PB (on Saturday), as she edges towards world qualifiers.

“It just goes to show with percentages as to how close Layla is to the World records. amazing running both days, as the percentages

&

are way above 90%, highlighting the closeness to world record times in the classifications, hence the podium finishes.”

Layla’s next major event is the australian Junior athletic championships, which will be held in Brisbane from 13th-16th april.

By Noel Rowsell

Layla Sharp competing at the NSW Open Athletic Championships and on the victory dias (middle). Photos supplied.

Playoffs beckon for several Western Sydney Clubs

Four western Sydney Golf Clubs have finished at the top of their respective Sections in the 2023 Golf NSW Men’s Major Pennant competition and will advance to the playoffs this Sunday.

Stonecutters Ridge has won Division 2, Section 2 and Dunheved GC has won Division 2, Section 3. Both clubs will enter the playoffs on Sunday, alongside RydeParramatta GC and Cromer GC. Dunheved should meet Cromer and Stonecutters meet Ryde-Parramatta, with the two respective winners advancing to the Division Final and also both advancing to Division 1 in 2024.

Richmond GC has finished 1st in Division 3, Section 4 and should face Royal Sydney this Sunday. Victory will take Richmond into the Division Final and also promotion to Division 2 in 2024.

Glenmore Heritage Valley GC finished 1st in Division 4, Section 3 and should meet Palm Beach in the playoffs. Victory will take Glenmore into the Division Final and also promotion to Division 3 in 2024.

Penrith GC won a ‘get out of gaol’ pass on Sunday, following a good 5-2 win over Concord GC. Locked in 4th position prior to the weekend,

Penrith’s win and Lynwood’s 6.5-0.5 loss (to Section winner New South Wales) elevated Penrith into third spot, whilst Lynwood are now off to the Relegation Playoffs.

Wallacia GC finished 4th in Division 4, Section 3 and will enter the Relegation Playoffs against Beverley Park GC.

The full results from the round are (home teams shown first): Penrith

5-2 over Concord, Long Reef 6-1 over Stonecutters Ridge, Camden 5-2 over Twin Creeks, North Ryde 4.52.5 over Dunheved, Richmond 6-1 over Kogarah, Massey Park 4.5-2.5 over Springwood, Glenmore Heritage Valley 5-2 over Carnarvon, Wallacia drew 3.5-3.5 with Wakehurst, Leonay 4.5-2.5 over Bondi.

In the Women’s Major Pennant, Stonecutters Ridge lost their final

Penrith Open Amateur

By Noel Rowsell

LoCAL senior Denis Day became the oldest winner of the Penrith open on Saturday when he defeated a star-studded Vardon field to claim the Sutherland Cup.

Playing in the morning wave, the 68-year-old Day produced a two-under-par 70 and withstood all challenges as a host of high-profile competitors tried to reel him in.

Day was dialed in from the get-go, birdieing the parfive first hole and followed with a run of seven pars before his only bogey of the round at the par-four ninth.

A further seven pars followed before Day was rewarded for his stellar ball striking with two closing birdies.

on the par-five 17th, Day struck a brilliant fairway metal from 225 metres to within five metres of the hiole and two-putted for birdie.

on the par-four 18th, his approached settled four metres below the hole and his putt went in dead centre.

It was Day’s second Penrith open title, having won in 2008. He also lost a playoff in 2009.

Kooindah Waters plus-3 marker Justin Avendano fired a one-under-par 71 to finish second, with a group of five players shooting par 72.

LEADING SCoRES

70: Denis Day (Penrith). 71: Justin Avendano (Kooindah Waters). 72: Cain Fitzsimmons (Penrith), Shane Fitzpatrick (Massey Park), Peter Morris (Penrith), Chayse Thorpe (Lynwood), Blade Gadd (Penrith). 73: Jonah Metuangaro (Twin Creeks), Dale Turner (Penrith), Jeff Gadd (Penrith).

Penrith’s Mark McBride claimed the Watkins Bowl for the overall handicap with a score of 66 nett, winning on a countback from Todd Cleminson, also from Penrith.

The tournament attracted a field of 219 players, representing 20 clubs.

game of the season by 3-2 to The Australian and finished the season in 4th spot.

In Women’s Grade Pennant, Penrith defeated Asquith 4.5-0.5 in the penultimate round and are in the box seat to win the division if they secure a final round win over Cumberland.

‘In Mixed Pennant, Springwood had a bye and Richmond lost 4-1 to Warringah.

Action from the Major Pennant match between Penrith GC and Concord GC on Sunday. (L) Jeff Gadd (Penrith), (R) Josh Scott (Penrith) Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Action from the 2023 Penrith Open Amateur. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Denis Day (file photo).

Young Panthers open season with stunning comeback victory

The Panthers trailed 22-8 at halftime, before launching a thrilling comeback to win 28-22.

A slick piece of play saw the Panthers open the scoring in the 8th minute, when Liam Ison beat his man and shifted to Sam Lane to set up Cody Lawson in the right-hand corner.

The Storm hit back shortly after when a strong carry by Joe Chan saw him overpower the Panthers goal line defence.

They struck again in the 22nd minute when Gabriel Satrick grubbered past the defence for Matthew hill to take a 10-4 lead.

Strong defence by the Panthers saw them force an error to go on the attack immediately after and they were quick to hit back, with Aston Warwick burrowing over from dummy-half to cut the deficit to two.

A penalty for dissent against the

Panthers while in possession gave the Storm good field position to launch another attacking raid, with hill scoring his second in the ensuing set.

The Panthers were reduced to 12 four minutes before half time when the ill-feeling boiled over, with Warwick sent to the sin bin for his role in the scuffle.

Down a man, the Panthers righthand defence was breached again in the final minutes of the half when Storm fullback Sua Fa’alogo sliced through off a scrum, giving the Storm a 22-8 lead at the break.

After an error-riddled first 15 minutes of the second half, it was the Panthers who were next to score when Blake Moore put on a right-foot step to score under the posts and cut the margin back to eight.

That gave the Panthers the momentum, and back-to-back penalties gave them the field position they needed to score again through Liam Ison.

A towering kick with six minutes to go brought about a Storm error and much needed field position for the Panthers. A penalty for dangerous

tackle from the ensuing scrum gave Ryley Smith a shot at goal, which he duly converted to draw level at 22-all.

With time running out, the Panthers opted to bomb again, however knocked on the kick chase. They got the ball back a tackle later though when the Storm made an error coming out of trouble.

With Moore set up for a field goal out the back, the Panthers instead shifted down the blindside to Warwick to dart through a score the match-winner next to the posts with less than two minutes remaining.

By Lach L an Jeffery, Panthers Junior r e P orter

Penrith Panthers have got their Jersey Flegg premiership defence off to the perfect start, snatching a last-minute victory over the Melbourne Storm at BlueBet Stadium on Saturday afternoon.