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Tokyo Triumph Local Paralympian Erik Horrie’s (Erskine Park) Silver medal in Tokyo saw him become the first male rower in history to win three Paralympic medals. Photo courtesy of Paralympics Australia

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

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any of us had a daily date with the Premier at 11am.

The Premier has announced that from next week the daily 11am information will be delivered by Health staff through video link.

“I don’t know how this will be received,” Premier Berejiklian said. “Mr Hazzard or I will intermittently hold press conferences or as required.”

Sunday will be the last press conference as we’ve come to know them, and the Premier or Ministers will only present to the community on “a needs basis” The Premier also announced that from Monday 13 September, people who have received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine will be allowed some more freedoms.

For those who live outside the LGAs of concern, up to 5 fully vaccinated adults can engage in outdoor recreation in a person’s LGA or within 5km of home. Children under 12 will not be counted in this total.

For those who live in the LGAs of concern, a household with all adults vaccinated will be able to engage in outdoor recreation (including picnics) for up to 2 hours within the existing rules (outside of curfew hours and within 5km of home). This is in addition to the ability to engage in outdoor exercise.

People who live alone can gather with one other adult to participate in outdoor recreation within the same existing rules.

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

I

N my former life which I call BMW - Before Moving West - I had a part-time job at a place called Joseph Dahdah & Co in Surry Hills.

The boss, who we called “Mr Peter” was a mad Panthers fan and as many footy fans will know, ended up being the Panther’s jersey sponsors for a while.

My main friend at work was a bloke we called Davo. Everyone loved him, he was like having round-the-clock comedy without having to buy a ticket.

He could imitate any person perfectly. Mr Peter would storm into the office in a foul mood because Panthers had lost, and wouldn’t realise that Davo was walking behind him imitating his every gesture. We’d all die laughing underneath desks and behind water coolers.

He had a never-ending stash of jokes and he was perfect at delivering the punch lines. Even if the joke wasn’t particularly funny, his telling of it would be gold.

We all pegged him as the type of person whose life was just one big long laugh.

That is until he never showed up for work one morning.

Later that day Mr Peter called a meeting and broke the horrific news that Davo had taken his own life the night before.

It was an enormous shock. At his funeral his mother told me that he’d kept diaries that revealed he had battled depression for years, and one cold winter’s night he took a cocktail of drugs that could have taken out ten people.

The point to all this is that people with depression don’t always wear it as a badge for all to see. Some find ways to disguise it, and battle their demons internally. Alone, which often leads to a devastating outcome.

These days many people with depression are declaring it and owning it.

The stigma of shame or embarrassment is evaporating. It isn’t something one chooses, or can just shake off and those of us who don’t have it have become more understanding.

It is vital that this attitude continues and improves if we are ever to conquer the demon.

This year is more important than ever. We’ve been in lockdown for 75 days and the groups and networks many reach out to as a lifeline have been severed.

Yesterday was R U OK? Day. Take the time to let your loved ones know you care. Ask them if they are okay. And wait for, as well as listen to, the answer.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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tay-at-home orders for adults who have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine will be lifted from the Monday after NSW passes the 70 per cent double vaccination target, under the roadmap to freedom released by the NSW Government yesterday.

The roadmap is subject to further fine-tuning and health advice if circumstances change drastically or if cases within a designated area remain too high.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said we are well on the way to hitting the 70 per cent double dose milestone, which will allow the state to open up for those who have received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

“I cannot stress enough how important it is for people to get vaccinated – if you have not had both doses of the vaccine by the time we hit the 70 per cent milestone, you will not be able to take advantage of these freedoms,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the NSW Government has worked with industry to design this roadmap, which is our biggest incentive to get vaccinated, to reach the 70 per cent target as soon as possible.

“Our roadmap outlines the freedoms that twice vaccinated people will enjoy once we reach 70 per cent double dose, which means a meal with loved ones or a drink with friends is just around the corner,” Mr Barilaro said.

Only fully vaccinated people and those with medical exemptions will have access to the freedoms allowed under the Reopening NSW roadmap.

The freedoms for vaccinated adults will come into effect on the Monday after NSW hits the 70 per cent double dose, target and include: Gatherings in the home and public spaces: • Up to five visitors will be allowed in a home where all adults are vaccinated (not including children 12 and under).

• Up to 20 people can gather in outdoor settings.

Venues including hospitality, retail stores and gyms: • Hospitality venues can reopen subject to one person per 4sqm inside and one person per 2sqm outside, with standing while drinking permitted outside.

• Retail stores can reopen under the one person per 4sqm rule (unvaccinated people will continue to only be able to access critical retail).

• Personal services such as hairdressers and nail salons can open with one person per 4sqm, capped at five clients per premises.

• Gyms and indoor recreation facilities can open under the one person per 4sqm rule and can offer classes for up to 20 people.

• Sporting facilities including swimming pools can reopen.

Stadiums, theatres and major outdoor recreation facilities: • Major recreation outdoor facilities including stadiums, racecourses, theme parks and zoos can reopen with one person per 4sqm, capped at 5,000 people.

• Up to 500 people can attend ticketed and seated outdoor events.

• Indoor entertainment and information facilities including cinemas, theatres, music halls, museums and galleries can reopen with one person per 4sqm or 75 per cent fixed seated capacity.

Weddings, funerals and places of worship: • Up to 50 guests can attend weddings, with

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dancing permitted and eating and drinking only while seated.

• Up to 50 guests can attend funerals, with eating and drinking while seated.

• Churches and places of worship to open subject to one person per 4sqm rule, with no singing.

Travel: • Domestic travel, including trips to regional NSW, will be permitted.

• Caravan parks and camping grounds can open.

• Carpooling will be permitted.

Non-vaccinated young people aged under 16 will be able to access all outdoor settings but will only be able to visit indoor venues with members of their household.

Employers must continue to allow employees to work from home if the employee is able to do so.

There will be revised guidance on isolation for close and casual contacts who are fully vaccinated, with details to be provided closer to the reopening date.

Masks: • Masks will remain mandatory for all indoor public venues, including public transport, front-ofhouse hospitality, retail and business premises, on planes and at airports.

• Only hospitality staff will be required to wear a mask when outdoors.

• Children aged under 12 will not need to wear a mask indoors.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the easing of restrictions would come as a huge relief to struggling businesses and workers, who just want to get their lives back on track, safely.

“This roadmap gives us the light at the end of the tunnel we all want and will enable our economy to start firing again, driving our state back to prosperity,” Mr Perrottet said.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the government will continue to be guided by the health advice, and may still require targeted restrictions to deal with outbreaks.

“As we work toward reopening NSW, it is vital people continue to come forward and get vaccinated to help protect the community and reduce transmission of the virus,” Mr Hazzard said.

When NSW hits the 80 per cent double dose target, the government intends to open up further freedoms around international travel, community sport, major events and other areas.

If you are not booked in for a COVID-19 vaccine, please book an appointment as soon possible.

For the latest information visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith Authorised by Stuart Ayres MP. ‘Funded using parliamentary entitlements’

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Roadmap to freedom unveiled patioman for the fully vaccinated

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

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Pub staff back vaccinations – aha nsw Staff Survey

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otel staff across NSW have overwhelmingly backed the Premier’s calls for double vaccination.

More than 6500 staff members have so far responded to the AHA NSW COVID-19 Employee Vaccination Survey with their views on vaccinations; • 55.7% said they will be fully vaccinated by the end of October.

• 28.2% said they intend to be vaccinated • 9.5% were undecided • 6.6% said they did not intend to be vaccinated More than 63.5 % of staff members surveyed believe it should be a requirement for all hotel employees to be fully vaccinated.

AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said it was obvious a clear majority of hotel staff want to work in a vaccinated environment – and want to get back to work.

“Hotels have been in the economic front-line since the start of the pandemic and it’s really encouraging to see such a large percentage of our staff are already fully or partly vaccinated,” Mr Whelan said.

“It shows how keen staff are to return to work, throw open the doors to your local and do what they do best, serve patrons in a safe, friendly

environment.

“The Premier has now set the 70% benchmark, and on current vaccination rates we’ll hopefully reach that in the next six weeks.

“We’ve all had enough of living like this. If you want to get down to the pub when we re-open, get vaccinated now. You’ll need two jabs and you don’t want to be left out when things

finally open up.”

The survey respondents came from across Greater Sydney and regional NSW. It was sent out to AHA NSW member hotels in late August.

local news

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has announced that local groups can apply for $2,000 grants for projects supporting local veterans or boosting awareness of their role throughout Australia’s military history.

Stuart Ayres said applications are now open for the Anzac Community Grants Program and urged local organisations to apply for funding.

“Veterans past and present served to keep us safe and this is a great chance to recognise their sacrifices, whilst enriching our communities,” Stuart Ayres said.

“We’re seeking projects that not only recognise the important service of our veterans but also educates future generations about their sacrifices.”

Under last year’s round, Kingswood Public School were successful in receiving a grant towards their “In Poppy’s Field – Remembrance Garden” to remind students of the importance of showing respect for those who served in wartime efforts and to honour our past by commemorating our Anzacs.

Grants cover four categories: local community historical research and education; preservation or display of war memorabilia; public commemorative events, arts and culture; and support to members of the NSW veteran community.

Applications are open to individuals and not-forprofit organisations including local government authorities, non-government organisations, exservice organisations and educational institutions.

Just over 40 projects were selected in 2020, including a replica battlefield trench for high school students, a digital gallery of 600 photos and beach lifesaving training.

Minister for Veterans Natalie Ward said the

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Funding applications open for projects honouring Penrith Veterans

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Kingswood Public School (2020)

grants program is one way the NSW Government is addressing key areas including wellbeing, education and recognition.

“This is an opportunity to get projects off the ground, at a grassroots level across many communities,” Mrs Ward said.

“Our veteran community grows by around 1,200 former Australian Defence Force personnel every

year and we need to empower them to live fulfilling lives after service.”

The annual Anzac Community Grants Program has injected almost $250,000 across nearly 180 projects since its inception in 2015.

Applications can be submitted online until 5pm on 11 November 2021: veterans.nsw.gov.au/ commemoration/anzac-community-grants-program

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local news

Look after your mental health during lockdown

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RONNIE Taylor, NSW Minister for Health; Dr Murray Wright, Chief Psychiatrist; and John Brogden, Chairman of Lifeline Australia are calling on the community to be aware of their own mental health and that of their family and loved ones while the COVID-19 restrictions remain in place.

Ms Taylor said this can be an incredibly stressful time for families, parents and children.

“Look out for your family and friends, check in with them and see how they’re doing and, most importantly, reach out for help when you need it.”

“There are services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Anyone in crisis can reach out at any time of day to get the help they need.”

Dr Wright explained that the message of hope is extremely important during this challenging time.

“It’s a message that’s been lost in much of the recent coverage, but we need to reassure ourselves that the current situation is temporary. It will end, especially as our vaccination coverage increases,” Dr Wright said.

“Now, more than ever, we need to spread that message of hope, but we also acknowledge it is a challenging time for many people. We continue to monitor what is happening across the state and support the mental health of our community, especially our young people.”

With Lifeline taking a record

numbers of calls, Chair of Lifeline Australia John Brogden said it was more important than ever for people continue to reaching out for help when they need it.

“The silver lining to this unprecedented demand is that people who need help are reaching out – many for the first time,” Mr Brogden said.

“Just as we’re all doing our bit to protect everyone’s physical health, it is critical we also look after our mental health. The NSW government has made mental health a priority and it is helping keep our volunteers on the phones and saving lives.”

In July, a $17.35m joint package

with the Commonwealth Government was announced to support people in lockdown and isolation. The package includes: • $7 million for headspace outreach support to parents and young people across greater Sydney - jointly funded

by NSW and the Commonwealth Government; • $3 million for Sonder to provide anyone subject to a mandatory 14-day isolation order with 24/7 health and wellbeing support, with an emphasis on early intervention, for the entire duration of their isolation period - jointly funded by NSW and the Commonwealth Government; • $3 million to support Culturally

and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, with a focus on communities in South West and Western Sydney. The funding will go to Beyond Blue and the Primary Health Networks (PHNs) to ensure multicultural communities have access to services and appropriate language translation services; • $2 million for Primary Health networks across Sydney to increase their mental health services across all areas; • $1.5 million for Lifeline to boost crisis counselling services; • $150,000 for Gidget Foundation to provide counselling services for parents suffering from perinatal depression and anxiety.

• Free access for 8,000 new parents to the Tresillian SleepWell baby app, through a funding injection of $100,000.

This funding is in addition to the record $10.9 billion over the next four years in mental health funding announced in the 2021-22 Budget, including $2.6 billion in 2021-22 for mental health services to continue important work that supports people in need across the state.

If life is in danger, dial 000 (Triple Zero) immediately. For crisis support, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800. For mental health advice, call Beyond Blue on 1800 512 348. To connect with specialist mental health services, call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511.

Mandatory vaccination for all police employees

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ollowing the escalation of cases of the Delta strain in NSW and the significant risk the virus poses to both employees and the broader community, the NSW Police Force has announced all employees will now be required to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

The implementation of the mandatory vaccination regime for all police employees acknowledges the significant frontline role that NSW Police Force is playing to support the NSW Government’s response to COVID-19.

Corporate Services Deputy Commissioner Karen Webb APM said the risk of transmission as well as

the consequences of exposure to the virus posed a substantial risk to all staff.

“We know that the Delta strain of this virus poses a significant risk to police officers and staff. Each day, we ask our officers to front up and perform their vital policing functions in this extremely challenging environment,” Deputy Commissioner Webb said.

“The only way to face that risk is by ensuring that COVID-19 vaccines are administered to all staff.”

The implementation of the vaccine program will be staged with the following rules: • All NSW Police Force members must have received at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by

30 September 2021.

• All NSW Police Force members must have received at least 2 doses of a COVID-19 vaccination by 30 November 2021.

• Evidence of vaccination to be recorded to police systems to guide deployment, welfare and safety management.

“At last count, more than 17,000 police employees had already been fully or partially vaccinated. When we have full vaccination, we can ensure we provide a safe workplace for all,” she said.

Exemptions will be available for medical contraindications and other valid reasons.

Man in court after pursuit – Llandilo A man has appeared in court after a pursuit on the weekend.

About 12.10am on Saturday 4 September, officer from the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad were patrolling the Cranbrook area when they stopped the driver of a Ford Falcon travelling on Ninth Avenue, Llandilo.

As officers approached the window of the driver – and sole occupant of the vehicle – he allegedly accelerated away from them.

A pursuit was initiated and continued through several streets in the suburb, before being terminated

due to safety concerns.

A short time later, police deployed road spikes at the intersection of Stony Creek Road and Eighth Avenue.

The man allegedly continued driving for a short distance, entering Ropes Crossing where he crashed into two parked cars on Saltbush Court, and a letter box and tree in a front yard on Marshall Avenue.

After coming to a stop, the man allegedly ran from the vehicle and was followed by the crew of PolAir 3 before being located behind a garbage bin in a driveway on Bluebell Crescent.

He was arrested by police with assistance from the Dog Unit and taken to Mt Druitt Police Station, where he was charged with police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, two counts of not give particulars to owner of damaged property, and goods suspected stolen in/on premises (not m/v).

He appeared in Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday 4 September, where he was formally refused bail to appear before Penrith Local Court.

Inquiries continue.

local news

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enrith City Council has developed a new online interactive map to showcase the ongoing revitalisation of the Nepean River, and help residents and visitors discover all the things to see and do there.

Details about major projects being delivered on both sides of the Nepean River are now easier than ever to find with the map outlining their location, status and where to find more information about the projects so residents can keep up to date.

The map is designed to help visitors plan a trip to the Nepean River by providing details and locations of public and accessible toilets, car parks and on-street parking spaces, along with picnic spots, playgrounds and where to grab the best view or photo.

The interactive map also allows users to discover things to see and do at the Nepean River including walking tracks, where to launch a kayak from, appropriate fishing spots and popular locations to book for wedding ceremonies.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the new interactive map will be a valuable resource for residents and visitors.

“The Nepean River is a hive of

Residents and visitors can use the new interactive map to find out the status of projects at the Nepean River including the $24 million upgrade at Regatta Park funded by Penrith City Council, and the Australian and NSW Governments through Western Sydney City Deal’s Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

construction activity at the moment and this map will help residents and visitors to understand what’s planned for the Nepean River as well as all the different ways they can experience and enjoy our region’s greatest natural

asset,” Cr McKeown said.

Penrith City Council’s ongoing program of work to enhance the Nepean River and create more opportunities for people to meet, relax, explore, play and be active in the

outdoors is set to strengthen Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city.

View and use the interactive map at: www.penrith.city/nepeanriver

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Mapping the Nepean River’s revitalisation

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local news

New study reveals 88% support compulsory first aid training for Australian teenagers Australian Red Cross offers free online first aid training for World First Aid Day 2021 with COVID-safe skills shared on TikTok to raise awareness among young people

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new study conducted by Australian Red Cross reveals

that 88% of Australians believe first aid training should be compulsory in high schools across the nation, with 70% supporting first aid knowledge as part of the driver license application process.

Currently, first aid training is not compulsory in Australian schools or for driver licenses. The pandemic presents additional challenges: 82% of Australians would be worried about catching COVID-19 from a first aid emergency, and this fear means over half of us (57%) are unsure whether we would actually step in to help in an emergency situation. Millennials and Gen Zs (18-34 year olds) were most convinced they would catch COVID-19 if they administered CPR. With this in mind, and in a move to raise first aid knowledge among young people and their educators and carers, Australian Red Cross is launching free first aid training online and via TikTok on World First Aid Day, Saturday 11 September 2021.

“In the schoolyard, on the sports field, at home or out with friends, our experience tells us young people are often the first responders in emergency situations,” said Wendy Greenhalf,

Head of First Aid and Mental Health Training from Australian Red Cross.

“In the UK, first aid education is part of the school curriculum. Our research shows the vast majority of Australians believe this should be the case here too.”

“We want our young people to be First Aid Champions, ready to step up and help out when there’s an emergency. That’s where teaching first aid in high school could come into play. Arming young people with the knowledge and skills to step up in an emergency could help reduce pain at the time of injury or long term damage,” Wendy Greenhalf said.

The training session will be presented online by accredited Australian Red Cross first aid trainers.

Trainers will demonstrate essential first aid skills, including treating burns, broken bones, head injuries, strains and sprains, asthma attacks and severe allergic reactions. Participants will also learn vital skills in dealing with potentially life-threatening emergencies such as choking, heart attacks and swallowing harmful substances.

“We encourage all Australians to learn new skills or renew existing ones by jumping online this World First Aid Day for one of our training sessions. You never know when your first aid skills could help a friend, teammate, workmate, or a loved one in an emergency,” Wendy Greenhalf said.

For the first time this year, in addition to the first aid training session for World First Aid Day,

Australian Red Cross will run a TikTok campaign to teach young people essential COVID-safe first aid skills. View and share the campaign via @redcrossau.

Jonathon Davis was 18 years old when he was confronted with an emergency situation. He was playing cricket when he heard a loud crash on a nearby road. Within seconds of arriving at the scene, Jonathon put his first aid training into action.

He helped the victims of the motor vehicle accident while waiting for an ambulance to arrive.

“It was pretty chaotic. There were spills, smashed glass and motors still running. I took a few seconds to take a breath and think about what I had to do. I’d done a first aid course a few weeks earlier, so I went through the DRSABCD assessment to help the motorcyclist who had been hit by a van,” Jonathon recalled.

“The van driver was in shock, so I told them to sit down and take deep breaths and asked a bystander to help while we waited for the ambulance to arrive.”

WORLD FIRST AID DAY FREE BASIC FIRST AID TRAINING SESSIONS Australian Red Cross first aid training will be accessible online on World First Aid Day (Saturday, 11 September) at 11am (NSW, VIC, QLD, TAS), 10.30am (SA, NT), 9am (WA). Australians interested in participating can register at www. redcross.org.au/WFAD - places are limited.

Facts around First Aid

• Approximately 260 children die and 58,000 are hospitalised every year due to unintentional injury in Australia. This means that more Australian children die of injury than die of cancer, asthma and infectious diseases combined.

• In the UK, more than 532,000 young teenagers have been left to cope with a drunken friend who was sick, injured or unconscious.

• A quarter of young people have had to deal with asthma attacks.

• 1 in 3 teenagers have had to cope with someone with a head injury.

• 1 in 5 teenagers have had to help someone who is choking.

• When faced with the above emergency situations, 44% of young people panicked and 46% simply didn’t know what to do.

• 97% of young people believed first aid education would improve their confidence, skills and willingness to act in a crisis.

• Globally, around 140,000 people die each year in situations where their lives could have been saved if somebody had known first aid.

TO BOOK FIRST AID TRAINING 1800 RED CROSS (733 276) |learn@redcross.org.au | www. redcross.org.au/get-involved/learn FURTHER RESOURCES In a COVID-present world, Australian Red Cross has also released a free eBook offering guidance for First Aid during a pandemic. The Australian Red Cross First Aid App is also available for download on Apple and Android devices.

Hundreds of kids vaccinated at Aboriginal outreach clinic in Mount Druitt More than 250 Aboriginal people, including children aged 12 to 15, have received their first COVID-19 vaccination at a dedicated outreach event hosted by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) at Mount Druitt Hospital’s Aboriginal Health Hub. WSLHD Aboriginal Health Service manager Belinda Cashman said the western Sydney Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community has been turning out in force for vaccination – and her own 13-year-old twin girls were among those to receive their vaccinations.

“We started running these outreach clinics in July. They’re always booked out and we were being asked when children could get vaccinated,” Belinda said.

“There’s a really big call to protect our children, which in turn helps keep the community safe.

“I’m very fortunate to work for Western Sydney Local Health District and have the freedom to be

innovative and think outside the boundaries to help get people vaccinated.”

Care packs were also handed out to support families with learning at home during lockdown and every recipient received more information about remaining COVID-safe after being vaccinated.

The Aboriginal outreach day was one of several held across western Sydney in recent weeks with more planned for the near future.

WSLHD Aboriginal Health Strategy director Braiden Abala said he was encouraged by the overwhelming response from the community.

“People want to get vaccinated. It’s just a matter of making things culturally appropriate, targeted and easy to access, which is exactly what our clinics do,” Braiden said.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 due to the higher burden of other diseases. We really want to protect our elders and vaccination is part of that.

By protecting yourself you help create a protective barrier for those around you.”

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy said he was proud to see the District ensuring priority populations have access to COVID-19 vaccination.

“Our COVID-19 Vaccination Outreach Team has been doing incredible work to reach our diverse community, including Aboriginal people, new migrants and refugees, people with a mental illness, and those experiencing or at risk of homelessness,” Graeme said.

“Our health heroes have administered more than 400,000 vaccinations and each day they continue to work hard and innovate to keep all people in western Sydney safe from COVID-19.”

COVID-19 vaccinations are available every day at Qudos Bank Arena Vaccination Centre and across western Sydney. Learn more and book your appointment today at www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19

local news

W

oolworths has gone digital with its popular Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tours, with a new look to the education program set to provide more opportunities for Nepean students to learn where their fresh food comes from.

Years 5 and 6 primary school students across Nepean can now be the first to experience the digital program.

Woolworths Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tour was the first national program of its kind when it began in 2018, and to date more than 260,000 Australian school and early learning centre students have participated in the in-store experience.

Now with a top to bottom redesign of the program, Nepean students will now be able to use immersive AR and VR activities to take a virtual tour of a Woolworths store, as well as get closer to the farm, to help educate and inspire conversation about fresh fruit and vegetables.

Designed in collaboration with educators, food scientists and nutritionists, the program also allows Nepean students the ability to virtually step onto an Australian farm to learn how fresh food is grown and meet some of the farmers who supply fruit and vegetable to their Woolworths stores.

The redesign comes as new Woolworths research shows that less than half of the children in NSW and ACT surveyed aged 6-14 could correctly identify a leek, apricot or a beetroot. It also highlighted a lack of understanding on where fresh food originates, with many kids having never visited a crop farm.

Your local Woolworths Operations Manager, Ian Roper said: “As Today’s Fresh Food People, we’re committed to helping Nepean families make healthier and easier decisions when it comes to their lifestyles.

“A big way we can do that is by educating younger Aussies about

where food comes from, the food production process, Aussie suppliers and growers, and the need to support a sustainable future. Our new Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tour achieves all this using technology to create a fun learning experience.

“Taking the Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tours online also enables teachers to bring the curriculum virtually to life, even if students are learning from home. Nepean students can discover the importance of how their fresh food makes it into local stores, and helps them build a healthier relationship with fruits and vegetables.”

Luciano Mesiti, CEO of Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA) which supports teachers with Australian curriculumled food and fibre teaching resources, said: “It is so important that Aussie

students learn about the primary industries that support the fresh food that is produced. Having a program like this offers teachers high quality, real-world resources which provide context for students so that they can not only understand the positive impact of agriculture, but also build other skills including maths, science and technologies that drive sustainable solutions.”

South Australian Tomato grower, Naresh Singh is featured in the new digital program and said: “I’m thrilled to be involved in the reimagined Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tour and that Nepean students can virtually step onto our farms to learn about how fresh fruit and veggies grow.

Knowing Aussie kids can learn more about how tomatoes like ours end up in Woolworths stores nationwide is extremely rewarding.”

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tours at Woolies

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Teachers from schools in locations where home based learning programs are underway can also alter the program to suit their existing online programs.

Similar to the in-store Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tours ‘book a tour’ program, Nepean schools interested in participating in the new digital program can request a free classroom kit that contains all the materials and lesson plans required, along with access to a supporting Fresh Food Kids Discovery Tours app.

The roll out of the new digital program will start with years 5 and 6 and be available to Kindergarten to Year 4 from early 2022.

To find out more about Woolworths Fresh Food Kids Digital Discovery Tour program and how to request a classroom kit, visit www.woolworths. com.au/discoverytours.

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

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local news

Can you tell me why my dog is coughing?

D

ogs can cough for many reasons. With the COVID-19 threat still persisting, many pet owners worry that their coughing canine companions have contracted the latest coronavirus strain.

Despite the almost negligible threat COVID-19 poses for your pooch, kennel cough—or canine infectious tracheobronchitis—is a real risk, and currently extremely common among the canine population. If your four-legged friend has recently returned from yet another walk to the dog park or stayed in a new environment with other dogs, and begun hacking and gagging, kennel cough is likely to blame.

How do dogs contract kennel cough?

Many different bacterial strains comprise the general term “kennel cough;” however, Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common strain, which is why kennel cough is often referred to as Bordetella.

These bacterial particles can spread easily from dog to dog, or to a dog from a contaminated surface, including kennel areas, food and water bowls, bedding, and leashes.

Healthy dogs can contract kennel cough by being near a coughing dog, or by coming in contact with a surface contaminated with a sick dog’s respiratory emissions. Dogs most commonly pick up kennel

cough from boarding facilities, dog parks, or straying into areas of other dogs. One of the major issues with canine cough is the fact it is highly contagious and can quickly spread.

What other diseases can cause coughing?

In addition to kennel cough, there many other conditions may cause your dog to cough. To confirm whether your dog’s cough is due to a kennel cough infection, your vet will need to perform a physical

exam, and may also suggest blood testing and chest x-rays.

Other diseases that cause coughing includes congestive heart failure, heartworm, pneumonia, airway obstruction, collapsing trachea and cancers.

What are the symptoms of kennel cough?

Typically, the symptoms of canine cough present 3-7 days after exposure to the virus. The key symptoms include a hacking, non-productive cough, gagging, sneezing and/or a runny nose. Some dogs may cough so hard and persistently that they vomit.

Getting excited, as well as exercise can worsen symptoms. However, symptoms generally resolve after approximately 7-10 days. It’s important to keep a close eye on your dog as pneumonia or bronchitis may develop in more serious cases.

How can I keep my dog safe from kennel cough?

Vaccinate! To help protect against canine cough there is an intranasal, oral or injectable vaccine available. Avoid boarding facilities that do not require proof of vaccinations and be aware that not all dogs attending dog parks will be vaccinated.

With proper precautions and appropriate vaccinations, you can greatly reduce your pets’ chance of developing an annoying cough.

For more information contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

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local news

G

ina Wilson understands the devastating impact stroke can have on families all too well after her mother, Joyce, had a stroke when Gina was a baby.

It was 1949 and stroke paralysed 37-year-old Joyce down her right side. She walked with a limp, lost the use of her hand and her speech was affected at times.

Gina recalls special moments with her mum like going to theatre together and enjoying the excellent meals she prepared, despite her disability.

“Sadly, stroke came back to haunt mum again and again,” Gina said.

“It is a cruel disease and each stroke left mum more incapacitated. She died just before I turned 21. It was terrible to lose her so young.”

Gina has shared her story to mark Include a Charity Week, September 6-12. She has supported the Stroke Foundation, a charity close to her heart, by leaving a gift in her Will.

“One of my best friends, Helen, also experienced a stroke,” Gina said.

“It robbed her of her independence and changed her life dramatically.

“I have chosen to support Stroke Foundation to help fund programs and vital research that could have

Gina Wilson as a child with her mother Joyce

helped my mother and Helen receive better treatment and live better lives after their strokes.

“I want to make a difference for others in the future.”

While 87 percent per of Australians

support charities in their lifetimes, only a small number (7.5 percent) include gifts in their Wills. Include a Charity Week aims to raise awareness of the importance of charitable gifts and to inspire Australians to remember their favourite causes in their Wills.

Like most charities, Stroke Foundation relies on the generosity and compassion of the community to carry out its essential work, with gifts in Wills making up around 15 percent of its income.

Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said all gifts from wonderful donors like Gina are greatly appreciated.

“A legacy, of any size, can have a huge impact and allow us to continue our mission to prevent stroke, save lives and enhance recovery long into the future,” Ms McGowan said.

“I encourage Australians, after they have looked after their own loved ones, to consider leaving a gift in their Will to Stroke Foundation or any of the other worthy charities. Every bit helps.”

For more information on leaving a gift to the Stroke Foundation in your Will, please call 1300 194 196 or email giftsinwills@strokefoundation. org.au

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Australians urged to leave a gift in their Will

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Nominations open for 2022 nsw Women of the Year Awards

T

he search is on for the most outstanding and influential women in NSW, with nominations now open for the 2022 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the annual awards play an important role in recognising inspirational women from diverse backgrounds across NSW. “These awards are all about celebrating women who are standing up and standing out in their communities and setting a wonderful example for everyone,” Mrs Taylor said.

“There are so many women from all walks of life who are spearheading positive change and inspiring others to do the same right across the state.

“The 2021 Women of the Year Awards attracted a record 373 nominations and yet we know we are really only scratching the surface.”

Categories include the Woman of Excellence, Aboriginal Woman of the Year, Aware Super NSW Community Hero of the Year, Young Woman of the Year and Regional Woman of the Year.

The One to Watch, which recognises girls aged 7 to 17 who supported others through acts of courage, strength, determination or kindness is in its second year.

“The One to Watch is our way of giving a huge shout out to rising young stars who are showing strength and resilience, shining the way for others,” Mrs Taylor said.

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, was named 2021 NSW Woman of Excellence and 2021 NSW Woman of the Year. She highlighted the continuing dedication of her peers during the pandemic.

“I am inspired by the female colleagues I work alongside every day as part of our COVID-19 response. I am surrounded by incredible intelligence, commitment, skill, compassion and determination,” Dr Chant said.

“I encourage all women to believe in themselves and their capacity to contribute.”

Nominations close on Friday 17 September and can be submitted here: https://facs.smartygrants. com.au/WOTYA2022

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

14

NEPEAN HISTORY

Plenty of Fuss about Nothing

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

I

n this year in March my History Page was about the Railway Institute in Penrith and the various uses it enjoyed. Since then, I came across a newspaper article I had kept that had a connection to the building over 40 years ago. The review was by Lindsay Fisher. “Penrith’s Railway Street Theatre has done it again. Its production of Shakespeare’s Much ado About Nothing is a winner. With creative direction and a wonderful cast, the show is witty, fast paced and delightful. A love story in the truest sense. Director Mary-Anne Gifford cleverly brings the story (set in the Sicilian town of Messina in the 1950’s) the feel and music of the era, including a touch of Elvis. The story centres on the return of two brothers from the war. One is determined to find happiness, the other is intent on causing trouble. The good brother is played by the likeable Patrick Dickson and the evil brother is convincingly portrayed by the talented Peter Kowitz. With the cast required to play several roles, some even changing onstage, Peter is amazing in his portrayal of the characters.

Is it possible to bring together the feisty Beatrice and jester Benedick?.

Will Claudo and Hero marry, or will evil forces intervene? Rebecca Frith (GP, Water Rats, Flying Doctors and movies including Me Myself & I and Strange Planet) is adorable as Beatrice. She’s quick-witted and, like her love match Benedick has sworn never to marry. Benedick is portrayed wonderfully by Nicholas Garsden (Heartbreak High) and a prominent face at the Griffin & Sydney Theatre companies. His café scene will leave you in stitches. Will the intervention of the returned soldiers and the family of Leonarto bring this couple together or are they too busy arranging the marriage of Leonarto’s daughter Hero? Mikaelo Martin makes a professional debut to be proud of and Claudio (The Blue Planet’s Don Hany) is perfect for the role of the wronged lover.

Patrick Dickson is an actor known for (A Bridge Too Far 1977), (Home and Away 1988), (Sea Change 1998) and (Rogue Nation 2009). From 1977 to 2019 he acted in thirty-five TV series including Mini-TV series and voice-overs. He met Maeliosa Stafford at the Crossroads Theatre in Sydney’s Darlinghurst in late 1989 and accepted his offer to join the cast as co-artistic director and founding member of O’Punksky’s Theatre in Coogee. Essentially an actor he also designs, directs, produces, teaches, builds sets, etc. Maeliosa directed their inaugural production of (Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme) and as there was a tiny budget, Patrick volunteered to design the production which was a small triumph and O’Punksky’s was born and a creative partnership was galvanized. Patrick has been acting professionally since 1976 when he started his career at the Theatre Royal in Stratford, East London and after a year he joined an Education Company the Roundabout Theatre in Nottingham. He returned to Stratford for another year then emigrated to Australia. Over the years he has worked with many companies in Australia and is the co-producer/writer of a series of training films that he performs in and sometimes directs. He has taught acting courses and directed students at the University of NSW and Actors College of Theatre & TV and has various TV credits and extensive voice credits that include many commercial voice-overs, prose and poetry readings for ABC Radio Arts and book readings and has self-produced two audio books “The Toilers of the Sea” by Victor Hugo and “Kabaka Lear”

by David Allen. Peter Kowitz is one of Australia’s most versatile and accomplished actors who has been nominated four times for the AFI awards for drama (Bodysurfer), (The Long Way Home), (GP) and comedy (Supernova) and won Best Actor for (Bodysurfer) and (The Long Way Home). He had roles in classics like (Summer of the Seventeenth

 Photo from an unknown local newspaper

Doll), (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?) and (A Doll’s House), as well as numerous Shakespearean plays. In 1988 he was in the (Clean Machine) and was instantly recognised in TV’s (Prime Time), (Richmond Hill), (Chances), (Heartbreak High), (Pacific Drive), (Water Rats), (Wild side), (Farscape), (Murder Call), (Grass Roots), (All Saints), (McLeod’s Daughters), (Janet King) and (Crownies). Between 1980 to 2017 he acted in forty-five TV series, mini-TV series, TV movies and provided the English introductions at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Opening Ceremony.

He is also a regular on Sydney stages with credits including (Tot Mom & Blackbird) for Sydney Theatre Company (directed by Cate Blanchett), (The Floating World) for the Griffin Theatre Company and (King Lear) for Bell Shakespeare. When he was asked “how you do what you do”? he said that “I think for me it’s because I didn’t train, it’s instinctual to a certain extent but I’ve picked up just different techniques over the years.

A lot of it’s really about thoroughness, to be perfectly frank I spend a lot of time with the script. I started at university in the 70s. I’ve always loved the vaudeville tradition. I think most of my acting owes a great deal to the hams of the past and watching songs come about and the work done with choreography, because sometimes in a play you really don’t hit anything until week three because people are still fumbling about learning stuff. I went to university to do something else and then I got in with the drama group that included Geoff Rush and Bille Brown who handed me the flyer to the Dram Society at the Queensland University.

I remember going along that night and I thought I’d found my tribe. I’d been through boarding school and had a kind of a jock style education and suddenly there were women and men in nighties. Handsome men and ugly men, and I can remember that night clearly now, walking in and just seeing this crazy bunch of people who seemed so witty and intelligent and bright, so I don’t really have a set way of acting other than it’s all from the script”. The Railway Street Theatre was demolished in 2005. How lucky was Penrith to have the privilege of seeing over 40 years ago, two talented actors who would become icons of Australia’s stage, screen and television?

Sources: Peoplepill.com, AussieTheatre.com, O’Punksky’s Theatre all online.

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estern Sydney University has launched its decadal strategy, Sustainability and Resilience 2030 – an ambitious roadmap for climate action that includes committing to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2026 and becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

This commitment has been fast tracked into action. The University has recently achieved 100 per cent renewables in its electricity supply by including 100 per cent governmentaccredited GreenPower – four years ahead of target, and reduced its carbon footprint by almost 40 per cent.

These sustainability initiatives have resulted in the University being ranked 17th worldwide in the 2021 Times Higher Education Impact Ranking for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 Climate Action. This is up from a ‘top 200’ ranking last year.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said the University is pleased to take a leadership role in addressing climate change and building resilience during a time of unprecedented global crises.

“The decadal strategy, Sustainability and Resilience 2030, signals a bold vision that will see Western Sydney University achieve carbon neutrality and operate day-to-day using renewable energy exclusively,” said

Professor Glover.

“As a leading educational institution, both in Greater Western Sydney and internationally, an important part of our mission is to secure a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future.

“Our significant achievements in climate action to date – through our world-class research, teaching programs, and innovations in campus operations – have contributed to our global recognition when it comes to sustainability, but we can do more.”

Ms Jen Dollin, Head of Sustainability Education at the University, said the strategy, including its nine interconnected priority statements, has been informed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Indigenous knowledges, Planetary Health concepts, and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“Sustainability is a key focus across the University’s wide-ranging, applied and interdisciplinary research and demonstrates the public value

and social impact of our University with a bold and change-making, yet grounded strategy,” added Professor Juan Francisco Salazar, from the University’s Institute for Culture and Society and School of Humanities and Communication Arts.

Professor Simon Barrie, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Academic), said the University’s cutting-edge sustainability curriculum equips the next generation of leaders, innovators and thinkers to meet the challenge of climate action head on.

“Our educational offerings are developing citizens for a sustainable future, providing them with the opportunity to study specialisations such as global climate change adaptation and mitigation, urban planning for cool green cities and dedicated units such as climate change and culture and environmental planning and climate,” said Professor Barrie.

Dr Roger Attwater, Senior Manager, Environmental Sustainability, said practical examples of the University’s action plan include the new solar carpark and outdoor heat living lab demonstration hub at the Kingswood campus. This provides much needed cooling and amenity for staff and students, and is also used as a valuable research and teaching resource.

Artists Sue Pedley and Phaptawan Suwannakudt kick off Art Walks combining daily exercise and art making

O

ne of the simple joys available to us during our time at home is a walk around our neighbourhood. Penrith Regional Gallery’s free Art Walks invite people to experience a new way of moving through and relating to their environment as they go about their daily walk.

Artists Sue Pedley and Phaptawan Suwannakudt from upcoming exhibition, Line Work: Rivers of the Basin, have created the Gallery’s first Art Walk titled Hearing Surface.

The experience includes a video produced by the artists and a sound element which involves listening to overlapping voices that are reading and singing Thai poetry. Then, pausing the walk and using pencils, crayons or graphite on paper, making rubbings of textured surfaces such as bricks, tree trunks, leaves, pavements, or found objects. The possibilities are endless with each rubbing transforming into a unique treasure to keep as a reminder of the joy and awe we experience when we take a moment to observe and appreciate the world around us.

Art Walks videos and instructions will be shared on the Gallery’s website and social channels. Participants are asked to listen, make, or move in different ways during their daily walks. They are encouraged to share the outcome of their walk by tagging @penrithregionalgallery and using

the hashtag #homewithprg.

Art Walks is an ongoing project with various artists. New videos will be uploaded every few weeks.

Art Walk | Hearing Surface is free and open to all. The video and instructions are available on the Gallery’s social

channels and on their website www.penrithregionalgallery.com. au/learning/art-at-home/art-walks/ hearing-surface/. Please follow the latest NSW Health advice and guidelines when participating in Art Walks.

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Western Sydney University commits to ambitious energy targets as part of climate action

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

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TOKYO 2020 SUMMER PARALYMPIC GAMES

Local legends at the Paralympics

BY Noel Rowsell

Tim Hodge wins third medal in Tokyo

Tim Hodge, Tim (Disko) Disken, Will Martin and Ben Popham won Silver in the Men’s 4 x 100m Medley Relay (34 points) in Tokyo. Photo supplied by Paralympics Australia.

Tim Hodge claimed his second silver medal on Saturday and his third medal overall from Tokyo, teaming with Tim ‘Disko’ Disken, Will Martin and Ben Popham to finish second behind the Russian Paralympic Committee (RPC) in the Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay (34 points).

Tim led out the relay team in the backstroke leg and said he wanted to put the Aussies in the best possible position for his teammates.

“For all of us it was about swimming our own race and leveraging off the person in front to get the best start possible”.

“So for me it was almost identical to the Individual backstroke race and going through my usual race plan and making sure I gave ‘Disko’ the best opportunity.”

Next in was Disken, who overcame the psychological challenge of losing his mother during the week, pulling out an incredible performance to smash his personal best time.

Triple Tokyo Paralympic gold medallist Will Martin swam beautifully in the butterfly leg and 100m (S8) champion Ben Popham excelled in the freestyle leg to lift Australia into the Silver medal position.

James Turner wins courageous Silver in Tokyo Penrith-born Athletics sensation James Turner won a Silver medal in the Men’s 100m T36 on Saturday but the result does not do justice to the full story.

Left almost stranded at the starting line, distracted by the movement of another athlete, James came out of the blocks slowly and by the halfway mark of the event, was still back in fifth spot and conceding the leading runners a huge head start.

The history books show however that James had won all of his previous 6 international Athletics Finals and he showed that talent, commitment and speed again on Saturday with a phenomenal second half of the race, surging past all runners save for China’s Deng Peicheng, who ran a Paralympic record of 11.85 to win Gold, although still well off James’ World Record of 11.72.

James was visibly annoyed at missing out on the Gold medal, having entered the race as one of the hottest favourites of the Paralympic games.

Australian officials considered lodging a protest but decided the only likely outcome would have been a disqualification of reigning Paralympic champion Mohamad Puzi (Malaysia), who had finished in fourth spot.

In a refreshing interview from a world-class athlete, James admitted he only had himself to blame.

“I absolutely let myself get distracted,” Turner told Channel Seven.

“I saw movement next to me and my body wanted to go with it and I let it so I’ve really got to put the blinders on for next time.

“It was my mistake to let that get to me and I’ve got to learn from it.”

“Come Paris in three years time, I want to be in a position where I don’t make those mistakes and I can capitalise on every opportunity.”

James Turner proudly displays his Men’s 100m Silver Medal Photo courtesy of Paralympic Australia

TOKYO 2020 SUMMER PARALYMPIC GAMES

BY Noel Rowsell

Paralympians shine brightly In Tokyo

A

s spectators, we are frequently exposed to some of the most talented sport-stars in the world acting like ‘prima donnas’ over missed shots, unfair calls or any other implied slight on their performance.

There are however a group of world-class athletes who continue to persevere, impress, astound and amaze us all with their talent, courage, personality and commitment and these are, of course, our Paralympians.

Australia sent a strong team of 179 athletes to Tokyo, which is our largest contingent to contest an overseas Paralympic Games, surpassing the 175 athletes who went to Rio in 2016.

The Australians competed in 18 of the 22 sports on the 2020 program, returning home with 21 Gold, 29 Silver and 30 Bronze medals for a total of 80 medals.

Our local representatives were Timothy Hodge and Paige Leonhardt (Swimming), Amanda Reid and Gordon Allan (Cycling), Erik Horrie (Rowing), James Turner (Athletics), Jonathon Milne (Archery) and Richard Voris (Wheelchair Rugby).

Tim Hodge was already well known locally, being a former Young Citizen of the Year (2011), Sport NSW Young Athlete of the Year with a Disability (2018) and Sportsperson of the Year – Blacktown City Sports Awards (2019).

Tim was in great form in Tokyo, returning home with an impressive collection of medals including Silver in both the Men’s 200m Individual Medley SM9 and the Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay (34 points), along with a Bronze from the Men’s 100m Backstroke S9 and a 5th placing in the Men’s 100m Butterfly S9, behind Australian team-mate and World Record holder Will Martin.

Paige Leonhardt also won a medal in the pool, claiming the Silver medal in the Women’s 100m Butterfly S14 event, along with a 6th in the Women’s 100m Breastroke SB14 and 6th in the Women’s 200m Individual Medley SM14.

Amanda Reid had two events in Tokyo, winning a Gold in a new World Record time in the Women’s C1-3 500m Time Trial, along with a 9th placing in the C1-5 Mixed 750m Team Sprint, alongside Gordon Allan and Meg Lemon.

Gordon also competed in the Men’s C1-3 1000m Time Trial and set a new C2 World Record in his ride.

Ultimately that time would see him finish in 5th spot in the race, which included riders of a higher division.

Erik Horrie had previously won two Paralympic Silver medals in the Men’s PR1 1,000m event, the first in London (2012), followed by (2016).

Whilst strongly motivated to move up one position with a Gold in Tokyo, Erik would row superbly to claim the Silver medal and, in doing so, become the first male rower in history to win three Paralympic medals.

Jonathon Milne competed in the Men’s Individual Compound category in Archery, finishing in 8th position in the Ranking Round to qualify for the Open Eliminations.

He would subsequently shoot strongly before falling narrowly 143141 to American Andre Shelby in the first round.

Paralympic debutante Richard Voris was a member of the Australian Wheelchair Rugby team (Steelers), which had previously won the Gold medal in both London and Rio and were undefeated in Paralympic Games events since 2008.

The Steelers started poorly with a surprise loss to Denmark and would never full recover, winning just one of five games in the week to finish in 4th position and out of the medals.

James Turner was a red-hot favourite to win two Gold medals in Tokyo, in the 100m and 400m respectively, and would return home with one Gold and one Silver, along with an enhanced reputation not only as an athlete at the top of his sport but also as a sports-person of true character.

Totally dominant in his 400m win, James was distracted by another competitor in the starting blocks of the 100m race and consequently gave the field an extraordinary head-start in the shortest race of the Athletics program.

Despite trailing most of the field mid-race, James litterally came from the clouds in the concluding stages of the race to sweep past all runners bar the winner to claim an extraordinary Silver medal.

Many of our local Paralympians were covered in the glory of Gold, Silver and Bronze in Tokyo but all shone with personal best times and performances. Photos supplied by Paralympics Australia

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Local legends at the Paralympics

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Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

18

SPORT

Fox wins double Gold in Spain

By Noel Rowsell

F

resh from winning the inau g ur al Women’s C1 event at the recent Tokyo Olympic Games, Jessica Fox took that red-hot form into the recent World Cup events in La Seu d’Urgell, Spain last week, winning both the K1 and C1 Women’s events.

Jessica was fantastic all weekend on the 1992 Olympic Course and won the C1 event six seconds clear of Tereza Fišerova (Czechoslovakia) and Nuria Vilarrubla (Spain).

The time Jessica produced in the C1 final was so fast she would have finished seventh in Sunday’s men’s canoe final.

“I think it is hard to make time on the top. I really wanted to be solid and safe in the gates, not get any penalties,” Jessica said.

“Once I got through the middle section I was a little bit low in the upright under the bridge but tried to keep the speed. I have no arms left, I really pushed hard.”

Jessica had earlier won the K1 event, defeating Mallory Franklin (Great Britain) and Eliška Mintalova (Slovakia).

That was Jessica’s eighth World Cup win in the K1 but her first-ever on the 1992 Olympic course.

“It’s really good, I tried to really attack it,” said Jessica.

“I came in quite well from gate one,

Jessica Fox in Gold-winning form in both the K1 and the C1 in Spain this week.

Photos courtesy of Paddle Australia

tried to do the tight lines. It pieced that together really well and I’m very pleased with that race.

“It’s always really challenging, the La Seu World Cup, because the course is quite tricky and fiddly and I’ve never put down those amazing runs that I feel I’m capable of, so to do it today is really great.”

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By NRL.com

The NRL finals in 2021 will break new ground with all matches to be played in Queensland for the first time and Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium hosting the grand final.

On Wednesday, the NRL announced Brisbane would be the location for the premiership decider on Sunday, October 3. Suncorp will also host the preliminary finals, with Mackay the venue for next week’s semi-finals.

The playoffs kick off this weekend with matches at Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Rockhampton.

Friday’s Storm v Manly match at Sunshine Coast Stadium has already sold out. Tickets for the three remaining Week 1 matches are still available.

Don’t blink. Or you’ll miss the moment that will define the finals.

Wondering about how the playoffs will work, who’s playing who, ticketing options or the many ways you can tune in?

Read on for all the information you’ll need to stay across every detail as the race for this year’s title heats up. The NRL Premiership celebrates 20 years of naming rights partnership with Telstra in 2021.

Finals week 1 schedule

Friday, September 10 Qualifying final: Melbourne v Manly, 7.50pm at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

Saturday, September 11 Elimination final: Sydney Roosters v Gold Coast, 5.40pm at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Qualifying final: Penrith v South Sydney, 7.50pm at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Sunday, September 12 Elimination final: Parramatta v Newcastle, 4.05pm at Browne Park, Rockhampton

Nepean News 10 September 2021 Issue 311OWDIG

Everything you need to know about 2021 NRL finals

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