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Thursday, 12 June 2014
ISSUE 126
Corner Castlereagh & Peachtree Roads, North Penrith
TRIBUTE TO GARY FIZZELL: P12-13 | LEGENDS OF THE NEPEAN P:16-17 | SPORT P:40-48
LEGENDS OF LEAGUE
Panther’s stalwarts Don Feltis and Phil Gould have been awarded OAM’s (Medal of the Order of Australia) in the Queen’s Birthday 2014 Honours List. Story p11
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3 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Best Gourmet Pie in Australia! By Annette Thain
IT is not necessary to travel to the end of the earth to find the perfect meat pie; it can be found, drum roll.... right in the heart of Penrith! The Baking Association of Australia has presented the Penrith Baker with the Award for Best Gourmet Pie in the nation. Phil Ireland of Penrith Pies & Pastries won the competition held at the Food Service Australia Trade Show on May 25-27, 2014, against 1200 entries. Phil was pleasantly surprised to win top honours as a first time competitor. Thirty-five years of baking experience is behind the perfect meat pie. Phil has worked locally in the St Marys and Penrith areas, and also as a Baking Teacher at Werrington TAFE. Penrith Pies & Pastries is owned and operated by Phil and Ann Ireland, located in the Abcoe Centre, corner of York and Batt Streets, Jamisontown. Not only renowned for their
delicious pies, Phil and Ann bake a large range of gluten free products such as bread, pies, sausage rolls and sweet pastries. The gluten free products are a big hit with customers travelling from as far afield as Newcastle for their regular orders. “Our gluten free fare is proving to be very popular; we’ve even had interstate and overseas enquiries,” said Phil.
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From the Editor’s Desk by Kerrie Martin
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PENRITH is lucky enough to lay claim to being the place where many remarkable people call home, and one of the most remarkable and inspirational people I have ever met is a young man named Nathan Pentecost. Captain of the Penrith Panthers Wheelchair Rugby League team, Nathan has faced more than his fair share of challenges and disadvantages. But nothing holds this gentleman with an incredible spirit and apathy back – he goes over and above any call of duty to help those less fortunate. Personally, truth be told – these days I would struggle to run one kilometre. Nathan, however - get this – will be pushing himself in his wheelchair for 100 kilometres around the Regatta Centre to raise money to feed the homeless in Penrith! It is hard to imagine just how tough you’d need to be to complete that distance in a wheelchair - unlike cycling, there are no gears and Nathan can’t use his legs. The distance is the equivalent of pushing from Sydney to Gosford, Wollongong, or Lithgow, and Nathan will be joined by former NRL player Ben Ross, a Men Of League ambassador on the weekend of June 20 and 21. Nathan spends two nights a week serving meals to homeless folk in Penrith. Nathan said he finds homeless people inspiring because they don’t give up, and endure some terrible conditions and that he feels lucky, despite his own circumstances. All money raised at the Pushathon will go to Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, founded by Lana and Roger Borg, which provides food for those who are sleeping rough or disadvantaged. For every kilometre Nathan will push the wheelchair entirely by hand, and his 100 kg weight: few able -bodied people would be able to endure 20 kilometres, let alone 100. It’s a sign of his determination and competitiveness. And he’s doing it to help others, with no self-gain whatsoever. If you’d like to show your support of this incredible individual, please call Nathan Pentecost on: 0419 463 930.
We Buy & Sell
Fresh new look By Kerrie Martin
LOOK out for big changes ahead for St Open for business: Thierry Marys - with Grabara, Surveyor, Town the appointment of Paulette Centre Manager, Paulette Adams as the new Town Adams, Tony Zorzo from F1 Centre Manager. Real Estate, Stacey from Motivated and energetic, Anastasia’s Hair Salon, Paulette has a clear vision for Alanna Kelly from Right the progression of St Marys Property Management. CBD; focusing on growth and Photo: Greg Davies development. Ms Adams’ role as Town Centre Manager of the strategies we have in place for the town will be to work closely with key stakeholders centre, and with continued support from our and Council to revitalise St Marys Town Centre. business community and council, St Marys will be The commitment to support local business is revitalised,” Ms Adams said. key to ensuring local employment opportunities “We have current projects in place for and to provide diverse experiences and a safer redevelopment, the beautification project of Queen atmosphere to visit. Street regarding signage and the general appeal of Ms Adams will work closely with the board the street and improvement by replacing current on re-branding St Marys to bring new life to the pavements and trees with a new and fresh appeal. area. As well as working on traditional events such “The recent announcement for funding for as the St Marys Spring Festival, Halloween Trick CCTV security installation will be very welcomed or Treat Trail, the Easter Egg Hunt and Christmas by current business owners, property owners and celebrations, Ms Adams will be implementing potential new investors to the area.” marketing strategies for in-store promotions, “I’m looking forward to working with the training programs and development opportunities. business community to build a shopping precinct “This is an exciting time for the St Marys Town that is diverse and full of life, and I can’t wait to be Centre. Through planning and implementation a part of St Marys Town Centre’s success!”
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5 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
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Cemetery back to life
Save more than your health
A SERIES of restoration and expansion works were recently completed at Kingswood’s Penrith Cemetery. Council staff treated the project with a special level of care as they repaired heritagesectors of the cemetery and installed new structures at the site. One particular section of aging guttering in the Anglican section required the heritage-protected bricks to be carefully removed, cleaned and relaid. An older road in the same section has also been restored. In addition to the conservative works Council staff also installed a series of concrete beams creating new lawn sections to accommodate 400 additional burial spaces. Renovations of the cemetery took place over a two to three month period, and were recently completed.
DID you know that if you’re a pack-aday smoker you’re spending roughly $6,384 a year on cigarettes? Over the course of 10 years, that’s more than enough money for a car or a house deposit! Smoking is also one of the leading modifiable risk factors contributing to the burden of disease, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. In an effort to protect non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke and to encourage smokers to quit, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) will soon implement smoke-free by laws that will make it possible to fine people caught smoking anywhere on its facility grounds. NBMLHD Health Promotion Officer Marja Fornasari says quitting smoking at any age brings major and immediate benefits. “Twenty minutes after quitting smoking your heart rate drops, 12 hours later the carbon monoxide level in your blood reduces dramatically, and after a year, your risk of life threatening coronary heart disease is halved compared to those who continue to smoke,” Marja explained. Marja added that quitting smoking also markedly reduces the risk of diseases
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such as lung, throat, pancreas, mouth and bladder cancer and respiratory diseases as well as impotence and infertility. “Quitting smoking also results in improved fitness, better skin, whiter teeth and also improves the smell of your breath, hair and clothes,” Marja added. If you need help quitting, support services include Quitline (137 848), www.icanquit.com.au, www.quitcoach. org.au, and www.quitnow.gov.au, where you can download the free MyQuitBuddy App (also available from
iTunes and GooglePlay stores). NBMLHD also offers a unique program to assist women having an Aboriginal baby and members of their households to quit smoking. Women and household members involved in the Quit for new life program receive a range of smoking cessation supports including referral to Quitline, free nicotine replacement therapy and follow-up support. For more information about Quit for new life, contact Marja Fornasari on 4734 2022.
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Treasurer’s breakfast Local tomboy in the running for Miss World By Kerrie Martin
TWENTY-ONE year old Karlee Hansen from Glenmore Park, who we recently ran a story on, has made it through to the national finals of the Miss World competition. Karlee blitzed the state finals after raising the most money in NSW for Variety Children’s Charity, raising $13,200. “I thrilled to let you know I have been selected to compete in the National Finals at the e nd of July, where I will be competing for the crown!” Karlee said. “I’m pretty shocked and excited.” Karlee decided to enter the competition with one of her girlfriends. Part of the requirements was that she host a charity event which was held recently at Penrith Panthers. Many representatives from local businesses (Nepean News included!) joined Heartland Holden and some Penrith Panther players in getting behind Karlee’s bid and the event raised the most money in the state. “At the state we were required to compete in a catwalk event; evening gown, cocktail and swim wear. I was lucky enough to have made it through to Nationals from there,” Karlee said. To compete for the national title, Karlee will be required to raise more money for Variety Children’s
Charity, take part in a talent show, beach photo shoot, formal gown catwalk and complete a question and answer section. “I’m hoping to raise the most money nationally for Variety this time,” Karlee said. “It is addictive, once you raise an amount of money that can change so many children and family’s lives, you feel a drive to continue. “I was so surprised to be chosen to compete nationally and represent NSW. After all I am just a tomboy from Penrith” If you’d like to help our self-proclaimed tomboy take out the crown for Penrith on the catwalk, and help empower children with special needs at the same time, you can donate by contacting Karlee on 0418 686 794 or emailing her at karlee.92@outlook.com
PENRITH Progression will sponsor a breakfast with the NSW Treasurer in June, putting the city centre’s future at the top of the agenda. The NSW Business Chamber breakfast with The Hon. Andrew Constance MP will be held on June 20 at Sportingbet Stadium, Penrith Panthers. Penrith Progression Project Director Craig Butler said it was important for Penrith Progression to reach a broad audience in government and business. “This is an opportunity to put Penrith at the top of the agenda for our state government and our business community,” Mr Butler said. “Penrith has a significant role to play in the western Sydney economy and Council is working with the government on major projects including the Western Sydney Employment Area, the Panthers redevelopment and Nepean Hospital. “Through a process of collaboration Penrith Progression will identify key projects to attract investors and create local jobs. Conversation already under way has identified the potential for city centre housing, a nighttime economy and more office space. “Penrith Progression identified early on that we need government and private sector investment to succeed, which is why we are making sure we are visible in the government and business community. For details go to www.penrithprogression. com.au.
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Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Haere mai to fun cultural day By Greg Martin
NSW Maori Wardens and Te Kõhanga ReoSt Clair are hosting a Family Fun Day in Coachmans Park, Queen St, St Marys on June 21. Wardens support the Maori community support during times of crisis, hardship or grief - they lend an ear when you need someone to talk to and help find the resources you require. Wardens perform a variety of tasks depending on their capabilities and qualifications. They are all volunteers their time is given free. Te Kōhanga Reo is a total immersion Māori language family programme for young children from birth to six years of age. Money raised on the day support Te Kõhanga Reo and fund the new Maori Warden Program. The action in Coachmans Park runs from 9am-2pm and there is something for everyone. There’re Maori crafts and games, entertainment, raffles, refreshments and the ever popular Hangi and BBQ Hangi (aaarrgh)! Te Kõhanga Reo will be putting on little workshops for the kids so bring
A highlight of the action at Coachmans Park will be performances of traditional Maori dancing and songs.
them down to do some Maori themed crafting. A Loom band workshop will be hosted by Warden Summer Ratahi. Loom bands will be available and she will guide you through making a band. Whether you are a beginner or want to advance to dragon scale, Summer will give you a hand. Maori wardens have been around
in New Zealand since 1860 and have a proud tradition. Throughout Aotearoa there are over 1000 wardens working in their communities and they are also now operating in Australia in NSW, Queensland and Victoria. Wardens’ many tasks include: • Attending youth conferencing and court matters with whānau (extended family members).
• Assist whānau disadvantaged through hardship or illness by connecting them with the appropriate services. • Offer guidance to whānau with sensitive matters. • Assist at Hui, festival and events. • Support and liaise with community organisations and service providers.
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Business Delegation returns from Asia By Kerrie Martin
RETURNING from a business trip to China and Korea, Mayor Ross Fowler OAM highlighted the opportunities and positive responses received to investment opportunities in Penrith. ‘Education, health and business investment were on top of the agenda at meetings held with representatives in Kunshan and Beijing, China, and Gangseo-Gu, South Korea,” Cr Fowler said. Cr Fowler led a business delegation to Council’s international sister and friendship cities. Penrith Business Alliance Chairman Paul Brennan and representatives (who paid their own way) from Penrith businesses and educational institutions were also on the trip. Penrith was showcased at an international expo and secured formal partnerships with Xicheng and Kunshan Chambers of Commerce. The delegation promoted Penrith Progression to investors, highlighting the city’s many development opportunities. “It may take some time for these opportunities to come to fruition,” Cr
Fowler said. “But the timing is a perfect fit with the recent launch of the Penrith Progression and the intentions to revitalise the Penrith City Centre.” Mr Brennan, who has just been honoured as a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia for significant service to business and commerce, and as an advocate for the design of harm minimisation programs for people affected by drugs, has previously led two other business delegations to Asia, He described the recent visit to Korea and China as
“highly successful and full of new prospects”. “Building international business relationships is an enormously challenging task but I am very pleased with the outcomes of our efforts which begun in 2010.” Mr Brennan said. “Since then, PBA has been successful in engaging directly with the most powerful business organisations in each city,” he said. “It began with the signing of a MOU with Gangseo Chapter of the Seoul Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2012, here in Penrith It was
a major milestone in the business arena for both cities and has helped create greater awareness of the potential that exists in Penrith.” Mr Brennan said that the MOUs give us access to a larger number of Chinese businesses in both cities as well as bestowing new and added responsibilities on the PBA. “We will need to ensure that we meet the expectations of the Chamber executives who have placed their faith in the PBA to help facilitate ongoing business relationships,” he said Mr Brennan commended Clr Ross Fowler for his leadership and his mature understanding of the cultural nuances of the Chinese relationship. “Clr Fowler received a hero’s welcome in Xicheng being his first visit there and was profusely thanked by both the Mayor of the District and the Party Secretary for his support in instigating the relationship which has stood the test of time” he said. He also added that there is however a clear expectation that the visit by the delegation will give the long standing relationship a new impetus based on business collaboration and the Xicheng leadership greatly welcomed and thanked the PBA for proposing and signing a MOU with its Chamber.
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Mamre House: helping people into the workforce By Kerrie Martin
MAMRE house is a not-for-profit registered training organisation aiming to support the community through education, opportunities such as farming and support. Simone Taylor is one of the teachers teaching Hospitality Cert 2 to a group of refugees and long term unemployed women. “Our aim is to get them into the workforce and enjoying a career in hospitality,” Simone said. “The Grounds” in Alexandria is a key supporter of the program, sponsoring their excursion day and taking the group on a tour of their restaurant and cafe spaces. “The Grounds is a wonderful example of fine service and food and as you can see from the photos, my class has gained so much from experiencing a busy hospitality environment and also the chance to have a two course lunch. “Most importantly for both businesses (Mamre and The Grounds) it’s a great example of western and eastern Sydney communities supporting each other, and given this new budget it couldnt come at a better time.”
One of the students, Maria Loveridge said the day out gave her the inspiration to envision her own future once the course is completed. “It really was great, we got to go out the back and see how everything works - it showed that if you have an idea, and a plan, how to make it all work,” Maria said. Maria joined the course due to being unemployed and looking for a job, and her experience was with reception - she decided it was time for a career change. “I’d love to one day start up a cake
business. The course is intensive, yet in a relaxed environment. I’ve taken it with both hands and am enjoying every minute of it!” Mamre House, steeped in history as the final stop of Blaxland , Wentworth and Lawson before they tackled the formidable Blue Mountains is now also available to be booked for tours and events. Mamre will no longer operate the cafe space due to reduced patronage instead focusing their attentions on wonderful events and educational tours of our grounds.
Secret debate
Should Australia Post reduce its delivery service?
He Says........................... .........................She Says AUS Post has one core job to do under their charter..deliver mail Monday to Friday, they have not even been caught up in the weekend work scenario that most businesses have, so what is the problem? They also get paid for their work before they do it, how many businesses would love that scenario? I hear about gigantic losses in their operations and I understand that AP needs to address this, but reducing service by cutting deliveries is not the answer. A little bit of history here, a few of us over 50s out there would remember the old PMG, (Post Master Generals Dept), who not only looked after mail but telecommunication too. When this was split up blind Freddie could see the writing on the wall for the poor old letter if Aus Post did not join the 20th century. The blame for this mess with AP should be sheeted home to very inept management and poor government leadership over the years, a bit like the old Swiss watchmakers, Head in
WIN!
the sand stuff. No vision for the future. Anyone remember the millions spent on a new super dooper mail sorting centre in a purpose-built building at Redfern in the 70s? Twenty years later the building is torn down as testament to another big FAIL. Snail mail, is still a necessity for most Australians and businesses. AP should have been part of the digital technology change and as such, been part of the enormous financial growth to help offset the costs for their main service delivery responsibility - letters. Head in the sand comes to mind again. Let’s put someone in charge who can run an organisation about communication - although that seems fairly unlikely given that AP’s bosses, Abbott and Co - can’t even get their heads around the NBN, the future of jobs on this country.
LIKE anyone else, I find it hard to embrace change. But with a progressing society and a move towards digital correspondence, people just aren’t paying as much for postage as they used to and Australia Post is reporting astronomical losses. It is really quite simple; with the technology we use today the old snail mail just isn’t as popular a way to communicate as it once was. End result – people just don’t buy the stamps they used to. Money coming in is diminishing, even though the costs of the service continue to increase - with wages, petrol, freight charges and the like. If the figure of “billions” in losses that is being bandied around is correct, it would be criminal to keep doing it the way it is being done. There are so many other things that could benefit from that kind of funding.
Who do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to win a table for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant including dinner and show.
Odds on you’ll hear a lot of bellowing from the left. Oh the public servant jobs! Oh the loss in overtime! Oh this terrible, terrible Liberal government that is taking everything away! And they’ll trot out the usual tales to pull on the heart strings – the pensioners and the disabled who need a daily postal service because they can’t do email.. etc etc. But the funny thing is, these people will be the same people who will scream blue murder that funding has been ripped from other services. Fact is we simply can’t have everything. The money has to spread to cover as much as possible, much like the family budget on a much bigger scale. You wouldn’t keep paying for something in your home that cost a bucket even though its use was minimal, now would you? There isn’t a never-ending money tree no matter how much we wish for one. We have to be sensible about where the money is spent or we end up bankrupt. Simple.
WHO’S WINNING Is this the Budget we had to have?
HE WINS
Leaders of the pride honoured By Greg Martin
PLENTY OF purring over in the Panthers den with the announcement that Don Feltis and Phil Gould have been awarded OAM’s (Medal of the Order of Australia) in the Queen’s Birthday 2014 Honours List. Don, chairman of the Panthers Board of Directors, received his award for services to Rugby League in New South Wales and Phil for significant service to the sport as an administrator, commentator, coach and player, and to the community. Don, who has been chairman since 2009, has dedicated his life to football and the community. He first became a member of the Penrith Leagues Club in 1952 at age 18. Before he turned 20, he was awarded the National Service Medal. In 1955, he joined the NSW Police Force, stationed first at Redfern, then Wellington, Bourke and Penrith. Don’s rugby league career started as a player for Penrith Junior League. He played footy wherever he was stationed as a police officer, then moved up to player coach in Penrith in 1964.
He played until 1970 when he focused solely on coaching – putting the polish on teams in Penrith, St Marys, Richmond and Emu Plains. In 1986, he retired from the NSW police force after serving 32 years and received the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. He joined the Panthers organisation full time in 1986, first as administrator of the junior league operation, then in coaching and
development and finally as Chief Executive in 1991, when the Panthers won the Winfield Cup. “Gus” Gould is an icon in rugby league. He is currently the Panthers Executive General Manager of Rugby League as well as a respected commentator on the game for Channel 9, columnist for Fairfax Media and a renowned public speaker. Phil has demonstrated his
commitment to the game as both a coach and a player, playing for the Panthers from 1976 to 1979. He played with the Newtown Jets from 1981 to 1982, Canterbury from 1983 to 1985 and South Sydney in 1986. He coached the Panthers to grand final appearances for the first time in its history in 1990 and again in 1991 when he helped secure the club’s historic first-ever premiership. Gus’ love affair with rugby league went beyond Australia’s borders, working with the Papua New Guinea Government, contributing to the development of programs underpinned by rugby league to unite the country’s many tribes. Phil’s indomitable spirit and commitment to the community is demonstrated through his work with a myriad of charities. These include: Panthers on the Prowl and Panthers Women in League, to Randwick Children’s Hospital, Brave Hearts Foundation, St Gabriel’s School for Hearing Impaired Children, Trees of Hope Foundation, the McGrath Foundation, and the White Ribbon Foundation. Congratulations gentlemen.
11 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
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Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Vale Gary Fizzell : a true serviceman By Tony Fryer and Greg Cant
ON Monday 26th May, without warning, a special person was taken from our community. Gary Edward Fizzell had died suddenly. The ex-Service community lost a man whose post-Service life was devoted to help his fellow exmilitary colleagues in their quest for understanding, advice, empathy, support and camaraderie. Gary knew …. ex-Service personnel are more comfortable if they can confide in other ex-service persons. Seeking absolutely no notoriety, Gary worked tirelessly and selflessly over many years to provide facilities and services for any Australian who wore (or had worn) a military uniform. His quest for an efficient and effective ‘Veterans Centre’ at St Marys was constantly uppermost in his mind and in his actions. Gary’s support of military and ex-military personnel grew out of his own exemplary service in the Australian Regular Army (ARA). This began as a nineteen year-old National Serviceman, called up in 1956 to do his country’s bidding. On conclusion of his National Service commitment he chose to remain in the Army, transferring to the ARA in August that same year. For the next eighteen years Gary continued his commitment to service in the Army and saw active service overseas in Malaya (19581961 – two and a half years) and Vietnam (1966/67). In both of these assignments, he worked in various Signals units gathering and conveying military intelligence. In Vietnam, in August 1966, he and his unit monitored the movement of the enemy forces converging on Australia’s newly established base at Nui Dat and provided this intelligence ‘up the line’, however its authenticity/accuracy was overridden by ‘other’ intelligence;
hence the ‘surprise’ encounter that developed into the Battle of Long Tan. He progressed through the ranks, eventually to Warrant Officer Cass 1, Regimental Sergeant Major at the Scheyville Officer Training unit where he and other Regular Army staff trained selected National Servicemen to become officers in the Army. This was a posting that he was very proud of. He was in that posting at the announcement of the end of National Service. He recalled with humour the fact that the very next day at his morning parade call, very few of the students fronted up … most had gone home. On 13th August 1974 Gary’s career in the Army ceased. He joined civilian life, spent valuable time with his brother Colin (who also had completed a career in the Army). He met David and they have had a close friendship ever since. Gary worked for many years as a Taxi driver before getting involved, around the turn of the Century, in the ex-Service community at St Marys. It was here that Gary devoted his time to provide assistance, firstly to the many Vietnam Veterans who came to the door of The Train (the Vietnam Veterans Association), then subsequently to those returning from other theatres (Iraq, Afghanistan, Timor, etc) and to anyone else who wore a uniform and needed assistance in welfare issues or in preparing claims for the effects of Servicerelated illness, accidents or diseases. No one frequented The Train more often than Gary! It seemed he was there eight days a week. It was there that he formed a close bond with the many who came to him for counsel, for advice, for guidance. Gary was always able to ‘solve the problem’ or refer it to someone who could, or simply lend a good ear as a ‘sounding board’. His endeavours to provide the best service possible was reflected in the various processes and systems he
instituted along the way. His efforts to ensure ongoing funding from a variety of sources has ensured that the important work of The Train can continue. His support for the various groups within The Train was unending … this included the ‘Trainwashers’ (members of The Train who come along every Thursday morning to trim the turf, manicure the hedges, vacuum the offices, wash the locomotive and carriages, and generally maintain the premises), Welfare and Pension teams, Education and Computers. After ‘running’ The Train for several years Gary decided that the local RSL Sub-Branch could do with a bit of a work-over so he became President there and brought his usual ‘RSM-style’ efficiency to the task. Gary established a functioning SubBranch office where members can come and seek assistance on SubBranch matters. His efficiency and foresight was very timely as local ANZAC Commemorative Services began to attract growing interest from the community; numbers attending meant that all had to function like clockwork. His planning for such commemorative functions was meticulous. For example, he
introduced the large video screen at the Dawn Service to ensure that all attending could see the detail of the Service as it occurred. This move proved invaluable as numbers have grown to about 4000 attending (2014). While operating as RSL President he still maintained his ever-helpful presence at The Train in the unofficial role of ‘Office Manager’. His influence never left. His attitude, efficiency and general work with the ex-Service community was recognised when the St Marys RSL Club Ltd elected him as a Club Director where he continued his team contribution. Gary will be sorely missed by all he came in contact with. Thank you Gary for your friendship, your help and the enormous work you did for the exService community in St Marys. Your Service has been very much appreciated, admired and will not be forgotten. Your legacy at The Train will continue in your honour.
Heavenly Celebration Funerals was honoured to conduct the Service for the late Gary Edward Fizzell on Friday 6th June, 2014 A gentleman, a friend, a confidante - he will be sadly missed by all.
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It was scary, but I had a job to do We ran the article below on the late Gary Fizzell in our Anzac tribute back in 2012. We thought it would be nice to share it again with our readers. By Marissa Georgopoulos
RETURNED soldiers of war who share their stories allow us to hear the experiences our defence forces faced as they were away protecting our nation. Gary Fizzell of the St Marys branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association is a man with an intriguing story to tell. During his time serving as an Australian soldier that spanned for 18 years, Gary had experienced two theatres of war by the time he reached his 20s. He spent 1966-1967 in Vietnam and 1958-1961 in Malaya. Gary said that his two terms of service were “entirely different.” “When I was in Malaya it was quite an easy job for me because I was with the intelligence unit and I used to be a radio intercept operator; it was mainly intercepting radio transmissions from certain countries who were involved with the cold war,” Gary explained. “Vietnam was different. When I was there I was with a squadron that first went over at the beginning of the Vietnam War for us in 1966, that was when the taskforce went over to Vietnam and that’s when we first set up the base at Nui Dat.” Gary provided communications for the taskforce as he was with the signal squadron. “We had forward notice of what was going to happen at the battle of Long Tan, we knew something was happening because we were monitoring the North Vietnamese radios as they moved towards the Long Tan rubber plantation.” On the night before the 17th August, the taskforce base was mortared by the North Vietnamese Army and Gary and his men were amongst it all. “It was scary but you just had a
job to do and when you’ve got mortar bombs dropping on you all you can do is keep your head down anyway. I was a troop sergeant so I had to make sure that the men under my control got into their trenches and got their helmets on because there’s very little you can do, they dropped these mortar bombs from about 2km away. The artillery sent shells back and they actually decimated those groups that were mortaring us. The battle of Long Tan happened as a result of that mortaring,” Gary said. Thankfully none of their troops were lost but 18 Australian men were killed. After interrogating prisoners, it was discovered that the North Vietnamese army had rehearsed the attacks to take out the Australians but fortunately for our men, they were unsuccessful and the reality set in. “When I do talks to the schools which we do this time of the year, I usually say to them that If they’d had have been successful I wouldn’t be standing here now talking to you, there’s no doubt that we’d have been annihilated because we weren’t ready for an attack,” Gary said. The troops were preoccupied with setting up their army life with barbed fences, trenches and overhead protection. As Australians continue to realise and acknowledge, it is the overall effect of war that harms the brave men who fought to save the country. “Blokes that were in my squadron have committed suicide since coming back. It’s not nice to hear because you get to know people extremely well when you are in the army and particularly in theatres of war. “Some of the blokes who committed suicide I knew very well, they served with me and they were good soldiers and in at least two of the instances they were the sort of people
that I never thought would commit suicide but they did. “What happens in those situations affects different people in different ways. It’s the psychological part of it
that you can’t do a lot about.” Thank you Gary, for providing some insight into the realities our very brave soldiers faced. Lest we forget.
13 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
local news
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Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Mystery cat receives life saving surgery 15
Nepean
Veterinary
REPORT with Dr Tony Karolis phone 4733 3456
SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
By Dr. Claire Petterson
ON the 13th May, a female grey domestic short hair cat was brought to WellPet Nepean’s emergency service, Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service. She was found unable to walk by a member of the public in Rochford Street, St Clair. Dr Ava and nurse David were on duty and examined her. She was
Lucy’s xray before the surgery
very painful when her abdomen was touched. It also felt unusual – a soft feeling lump could be felt on the outside of her abdominal wall. Xrays were performed immediately to determine the extent of her injuries. The xrays showed that the cat (dubbed “Lucy” by our staff) had an abdominal herniation – a tear in the abdominal wall allowing some of her organs to escape out of the abdomen under the skin. This is a very severe situation – structures outside the
abdomen do not receive enough blood flow and can potentially die off. Dr Erin performed surgery to return the abdominal contents and repair the abdominal wall. Luckily none of “Lucy”s organs had been damaged. The surgery was successful, and “Lucy” has been recovering ever since at our Nepean Hospital. Despite extensive searching, we have been unable to locate her owner. We are now looking for a loving home to
Lucy with Dr Claire
adopt her. She is a very sweet cat who loves being with people. If you know this cat, or are interested in adopting her, please give us a call on 4733 3456. We are always available.
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16 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Legends of the Nepean By Greg Martin
THEY say that necessity is the mother of invention. Necessity has driven Bernard “Bernie” Fehon to reinvent himself as a wage earner on numerous occasions throughout his working life. Now the managing director and
principal financial planner for Penrithbased Tactical Solutions, Bernie is doing quite nicely “thank you” on his own financial front which in turn has enabled him to turn his moneymaking talents elsewhere. And what talents! As the founder of CEO Sleepout, Bernie has presided over the annual event since its inception in 2006.
Bernard and Julie Fehon. Childhood sweethearts and now blissfully married for 30 years.
During that time CEO Sleepout has raised $21 million for the St Vincent de Paul Society – Vinnies. That’s right - $21 million! In the last national census, it was revealed that there are more than 100,000 homeless people across our nation. Vinnie’s CEO Sleepout website states that Vinnies’ Homeless Services “places an emphasis on breaking personal cycles by helping people to learn to make better decisions through a range of education programs, recreation activities and extensive information and referral services in a safe and supportive environment”. “The aim of Vinnies CEO Sleepout is not only to raise funds and raise awareness of homelessness but to bring about an end to homelessness.” The Vinnies CEO Sleepout is now a national initiative in which CEO’s will spend a night sleeping outdoors across Australia, encouraging business leaders to help raise awareness and funds for Vinnies by experiencing the discomfort of sleeping on the streets for a night. Funds are raised by the CEO’s rounding up sponsorships for their uncomfortable night in which they
experience what those 100,000 fellow Australians experience every night. The 2014 CEO Sleepout in Sydney will be held at in the old Eveleigh Railway Sheds at Redfern on July 19. Among the 200 or so CEOs roughing it for the night are Minister for Communications Malcolm Turnbull, George Frazis (St George Bank), Holly Kramer (Best and Less), Murray Coleman (Lend Lease) and Mick Boyle, an old schoolmate of Bernie Fehon’s who is the CEO of giant civil engineering firm, Abergeldie. Bernie Fehon is rightly proud of what “the entire team” has achieved with his brainchild. “But it was my two oldest boys, James and Tom, and their fellow students at St Columba’s College (Springwood) who put the idea into my head,” Bernie explained. “The students wanted to raise funds for Vinnies so they rounded up people and businesses to sponsor a sleepout on the school grounds. “I have always had an affinity with Vinnies for what it does for the less fortunate in our society and at the time I was organising what were successful fundraising dinners for Vinnies at the
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BERNARD FEHON himself in a number of jobs to lift his income and give him and his wife, Julie and their children, James, now 26, Tom, 25, Megan, 23, Hannah 20 and 18-year-old Nicole a financially secure life. Born and raised in Penrith, Bernie attended St Nicholas Primary and St Dominic’s College where he met his future bride in Year 11 – St Doms at the time was co-ed in Years 1112 before the building of McCarthy Catholic College. After leaving school, Bernie became a trainee production engineer at Crane Enfield Metals before then spending 12 years with Sunbeam as a production designer - he was appointed research and development manager at just 24. During this time Bernie continued with his education, studying mechanical engineering at UTS and then completed a Master of Science Industrial Design at the University of NSW. After Sunbeam, came stints with Sebel as the design and development manager and then he found his true vocation, landing a job as a financial planner with AMP. “AMP had a very structured
Bernard (centre) with several old St Doms schoolmates who have forged successful business careers and have been strong supporters of the CEO Sleepout. For this lot, the sleepout at Luna Park in 2008 was no fun matter.
training program and it taught me a lot – enough in fact to strike out on my own after two years. “Just after finishing at Sunbeam I had started Tactical Solutions which was a management consultancy but I put that on hold not long after to join Sebel. “With the experience gained at AMP and completion of a Diploma in Financial Planning at Deakin University, I recommenced Tactical Solutions but this time as a financial planning business. “This business has provided our family with financial security and has taken a lot of stress out of my life – it is a job I thoroughly enjoy.” Also taking stress out of his system are long paddles in his kayak
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
St Marys Band Club. “However the kids’ sleepout was so successful that an idea was conceived to do it for Vinnies on a much larger scale. “I was also at the time doing a personal development course which required that I complete a project – and what better project than to raise funds for Vinnies.” That very first CEO Sleepout at the then Telstra Stadium – now ANZ Stadium - in 2006 attracted a handful of CEOs and raised $5000 but that figure blew out the following year when several big names were involved and a live cross was made to the venue by Channel 7’s Sunrise program. “In 2007 we had several highprofile people sleeping out including Fairfax Media CEO, David Kirk, AMP’s managing director, Craig Dunn and the then Federal Health Minister, Tony Abbott,” Bernie said. “We raised $40,000 that year and the annual figures have snowballed ever since!” As the father of five children, Bernie Fehon knows what it is like to struggle to make ends meet. Down the years he has reinvented
17
up the Nepean River to the gorge, riding his bike along mountain trails, participation in boot camps and regular visits to the gym. “I have had a rich life – married my childhood sweetheart – we just celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary – and we have raised five healthy children,” Bernie said. A just reward for a truly remarkable and inspirational man!
Bernard Fehon was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Korena Hale. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at greg@nepeannews.com.au
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18 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
I WAS sitting on the lounge, late one night in my attractive onesie, seriously girls if you want to give the vibes of “not tonight” the onesie is the way to say “Hell no, this shop is closed for business.” I am so attractive in my onesie that Greenpeace were banging on the door screaming “throw water and uncover the blow hole, we may be able to save it!” Mine is glow in the dark, which means I have to wear sunnies to bed. It’s really good for freaking the cat out too, it’s like it is on a bad LSD trip. (But don’t tell the RSPCA). Anyway, I was sitting on the lounge having a few well-earned bevvies just to make sure my kidneys and liver are getting the workout they crave, and on comes Gilligan’s island. Now I am no brain child, but here’s a deserted island and the professor built everything from the kitchen sink; 5 star luxury cabins with ensuite to a restaurant, but he could
not build a crappy raft and get them off the island? And how the hell did Ginger keep her make-up so perfect? She was on a deserted island…….just sayn. Which then led me to the missing plane, yep that plane, where the hell is it? I have read more theories than an Agatha Christie novel, including aliens have taken it, but where is it? How the hell do you lose an entire big mother of a plane? I mean I lose my car keys all the time, however! Let’s not worry our little cotton socks about that right now, where’s…. da plane? Da plane? We have heated toilet seats that vibrate with relaxation music and automatic wipers (with forward or back option at the press of a button), but we can’t track a plane? We have the technology to put GPS trackers on dog collars, and look at the dog’s location on our smart phone - but we can’t track a plane? We can google
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
earth a house location (with picture), but we can’t track a plane? So what are trackers? Satellite Navigation or Global Positioning thingies and how can they be useful to us mere mortals? I have tracking on the security patrol cars, it’s a great system. You can track just about anything (except a plane of course), car, boat, cat, dog, mother in law - and these bad boys are so advanced you can see exactly where your asset is. How, I hear you say with eagerness in your voice (I mean eyes because your reading this) Well my avid readers, there are so many systems available, and parents are now placing tracking in their kid’s car to track speed, braking, and of course, where the hell your little Johnny is ( after he said he is going to Aunt Maple’s for apple pie..cough cough). If on a car, these devices show the opening and closing of the doors,
speed, gear changes, fuel and oil levels, replay an entire day, route , stopping times, ignition on and off and of course, the location of your beast (not the wife - your car). Great, if the car is stolen you can even set up what they call a “Geofence” which means placing a border around an address (so to speak) and when the car enters that “Geofence” it will sms or email your smartphone. I do ask that you don’t get red paint and paint around an address, it’s in the virtual thingy on the navvie thingy on your computer. So there you have it folks, we can track kids, cars, boats, truck, dogs , cats, elderly people, phones, bags, car keys BUT WE CAN’T TRACK A PLANE!!!!!!!!!! Oh and the cat rang, he is actually on LSD and is seeking help as I type this! My toilet seat is on backorder and wish I had tracking on my favourite jacket that is M.I.A!
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local news
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Rollout complete OUR three State MPs Stuart Ayres, Tanya Davies and Bart Bassett have welcome the announcement that the delivery of the final Waratah train last week meant 100 per cent of time-tabled services for customers using the Western line will be airconditioned. The Waratah project is a $3.6 billion Public Private Partnership providing 78 sets of next generation trains for Sydney suburban train customers. Bart Bassett said In March 2011 the Western Line was only at 80 per cent of services with air conditioning. “Under this government we’ve completed the Waratah project and increased the level of airconditioning on this line to 100 per cent. “Sitting in a roasting hot train in summer or freezing carriage in winter is now a thing of the past.” Tanya Davies said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government stepped in to save the Waratah project, which in March 2011, was on the verge of collapse. “It’s been just over two years since the NSW Government restructured the Waratah program from its foundations, to deliver on our promise to customers and get these cutting-edge trains on the tracks,” Tanya Davies said. The Waratahs now represent around half of Sydney’s suburban fleet, which means that more and more customers will be able to experience the fleet’s unique safety, accessibility and comfort features,” Mr Ayres added. Each train has 64 internal CCTV cameras, 32 external CCTV cameras and smart air-conditioning which automatically adjusts to the number of people on board.
Enjoy a day enriched in history ON July 20 the William Cox Festival will celebrate one of the most important achievements in our early colonial history – the building of a road across the Blue Mountains - and July 2014 marks the bicentenary of the building of the road. The road was built by William Cox. Construction started in July 1814 at Emu Plains and finished at Bathurst in March 1815. With a working party of 32 convicts, four free persons and a handful of guards, Cox completed the 101 mile (163km) road over the mountains in seven months! The road opened up inland New South Wales to European settlement. Cox’s bullock cart was the first wheeled vehicle to pass over the Blue Mountains and down over Mt. York. To mark the bicentenary, the Nepean District Historical Society with the support of Penrith City Council will re-enact the start of Cox’s journey from Regatta Park, Emu Pains at 10.30 am to the Arms of Australia Inn Museum for the William Cox Festival and formalities. This year Roger Corbett and Clare O’Meara from The Bushwackers, Australia’s best-known bush band, will join Tall Timbre Country and Western Band to delight music lovers. The NSW Corp of Marines will be on duty, with displays, drills, and re-enactments from the life and times of the early colony. Members of the 1st Windsor Light Horse Regiment will help keep order. There will be plenty of food, stalls,
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entertainment, music from the Penrith City Show Band, and songs and poetry readings from the Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School students. Children can enjoy old fashioned games, write on slates in the old school room, ride a pony, pet animals in the animal farm, jump to their heart’s desire in the jumping castle try trampoline bungee jumping and join in the ever popular, tug of war and lots more. The William Cox Festival and Open Day is at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum on the corner of Great Western Highway and Gardenia Avenue, Emu Plains from 9am. Admission is free. For more information contact: Rosemary Weaver on 4751 6975, 0408 416 735 or the museum on opening days 4735 4394. For more information, please see advertisement on page 34.
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local news
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
See the light and win CAN you wow the world in less than five minutes? This Winter Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest together with Southlands Shopping Centre is offering you the chance to create and exhibit your digital film. The aim of the competition is to give talented people from our community (Penrith and Blue Mountains LGA) a chance to express their creative ideas through film. The partnership endeavors to promote arts and cultural activity in order to enhance the quality of life within the local community. Your film must be no longer than five minutes in total and based on the theme ‘Winter Light’. Winter light is a broad theme and it is up to entrants to have fun interpreting. Entries are due by the 4 August and uploaded online via www.penrithregionalgallery.org. The finalists will be shown at the Gallery at the Prize Ceremony & Film Screening Event 24 August. An expert judging panel will select the open and under 18 age category while a ‘People’s Choice’ award will be voted on by the community. There is over $2,000 worth of prizes on offer. Entry is free, and you don’t need a big budget or amazing cinematography skills, just a great idea. Be in it to win it. Not only is Southlands Shopping Centre supporting the competition they are also offering ten free places for local High School Students to participant in a DLux film making workshop. The two day hands on workshop are programmed for the 21 & 22 June. Students will need to apply for a
bursary and details will be on the website. Southlands Shopping Centre Owner’s Representative Mark Hovey said the Southlands Shopping Centre team was looking forward to the end result of a budding “Steven Spielberg’. “Southlands are very proud to be part of the Penrith local community, and are excited to support the Lewers Gallery and future leading Hollywood directors through the Winter Light digital film competition and sponsorship of film workshops,” Mr Hovey said. “We are hoping this will be the start of an annual competition and a long association with the Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest, where the Penrith community can enrich and express themselves through a variety of art industries.” Winter light is a unique film competition focused on local participation. We’re looking forward to seeing what our community records and the visual stories on show. Competition launches Saturday 31 May Entries Close 4 August Prize Ceremony & Film Screening Event 24 August @ The Gallery Prizes: open category $1,000 Southlands Gift Card Under 18 iPad People’s Choice $500 Southlands Gift Card
Don’t miss our FREE film forum on June 20!
Bill Viola (United States of America, b.1951), Six heads (detail) 2000, video, 16:9 ratio, colour, silent, 20 min; Art Gallery of New South Wales. Gift of the John Kaldor Family Collection 2011. Photo: AGNSW, copyright Bill Viola 251. 2011
E N T E R T A I N M E N T
ENNON Bros Circus is the oldest touring circus in Australia. 121 years ago, it started as a Buck jump show and has evolved into the sophisticated circus production witnessed today. The circus is currently run by 5th generation brothers Geoff & Warren with 5th and 6th generations of the family represented in the program. Lennon Bros Circus is one of only two circuses left in Australia with big cats in the program. The three lions at Lennon’s are now 9 years of age: two females and one male from different litters. They were born and bred in the circus, and are in fact 12th generation born and bred in Australia. Other animals appearing in the show include: Beautiful Liberty Ponies Monkeys Camels Llamas Mini Donkeys Dogs The Lennon family employs a staff of 30 people, ranging in age from 3 to 65 years. To enable this large
operation to move around Australia (by no means a small feat), we have 14 trucks, 5 semi trailers and 14 caravans. The Lennon family is very proud of their Australian heritage and
aim to utilize the best of Australia performers as well as overseas artists. Be captivated by the antics of the clowns, awed by the majesty of the lions, and enthralled by the jugglers, the daring of the aerialists, and be
mesmerized by one of Australias largest flying trapeze troupe. Do not miss the fast paced Lennon Bros Circus production when it comes to Penrith - see below for details!
NOW SHOWING
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Australia’s oldest circus comes to town L
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PENRITH PACEWAY / SHOWGROUNDS SHOW DATES & TIMES
Friday 13th June 7pm Saturday 14th June 2pm & 6pm Sunday 15th June 11am & 3pm Friday 20th June 7pm Saturday 21st June 2pm & 6pm Sunday 22nd June 11am & 3pm
Be captivated by the crazy antics of our clowns, awed by the majesty of the Lions, enthralled by the jugglers, the daring of the aerialists, beautiful liberty Ponies, monkeys, camels, llamas, dogs and who could forget our gorgeous miniature Donkeys
TICKET PRICES Side View Elevated Chairs $15 Child - $25 Adult Front View Elevated Chairs: $20 Child - $30 Adult 2nd Row Ringside: $25 Child - $35 Adult 1st Row Ringside: $30 Child - $40 Adult
The show is approximately two hours, including interval.
Children 2 years and under free and MUST SIT ON LAP
Box Office Hours Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm or from 1 hour prior to each performance Phone bookings and enquiries please call 0408 536 666 Please Note: If internet has sold out, tickets are still available @ Circus Box Office
E N T E R T A I N M E N T with Mike Creed
Basic Burgers INGREDIENTS: 750g Beef mince 1 diced onion 2t minced garlic 1C breadcrumbs 1 egg lightly whisked 1T Worcestershire sauce Salt & Pepper to taste. Olive oil Hamburger buns Cheese thinly sliced Sliced tomatoes Lettuce Pineapple Beetroot METHOD: Mix beef mince, onion, garlic, worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs and egg in a large bowl with your hands. use salt and pepper to season. Divide into equal portions and shape each one into a patty with your hands. Aim for 1.5cm thickness. Place on a tray lined with
Heavens Above with Reverend Ross Hutchison
A powerful word When someone comes to the end of their trail - a trail that had no end, but is now a trail that has an end. Where does this ending we are sharing with a friend, family or someone we hardly got to know where has it brought us to. At the very least it gives us the moment to reflect on our own vulnerability. Is it today? Right now? That we begin our redeeming, stimulating, well ordered lifestyle. NOW! Is one the most powerful word in our language - and probably the most ignored!
greaseproof paper, cover with cling wrap and place in the fridge for at least an hour to rest. Heat oil in a non stick frying pan on a medium heat. cook the patties on either side for 4 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a heat proof dish and keep warm. Serve patties up and make you own type of burger, you add as much or as little as you want and you can make your own personal burger.
As I sit writing this column right now, are the “creamed mushrooms with a lamb cutlet on the side” the very best decision I could have made? I could definitely argue - yes! The mushrooms and cutlet are loaded with minerals that my body can process and use. But the Cream? I could also cause some bother to myself in wondering how fresh this food actually is? Every moment of every day, we are given choices and decisions to make that effect our every tomorrow. How healthy those decisions are depend on us, ourselves, me! We are in charge of everything we feed ourselves - physically, spiritually and emotionally! No more definite, possible or maybes my friend - for you or me. Let’s Just Do It....NOW! Your Mate, Rossco
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Mike’s Pantry
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Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
E N T E R T A I N M E N T 28 Stevie - not to be missed! Love like a Russian
A ROCK and roll life can be an exciting one. But the pitfalls too can sometimes be the stuff of which legends are made… This is the life story of Stevie Wright, considered by many to be one of Australia’s greatest front men, and of his band The Easybeats. Of Stevie’s rise and fall –and his rise again – to stardom, along with the highs and often tragic lows of a life of fame. Stevie Wright has lived in the shadows of his fame for many years, but this new compelling stage musical brings his legacy back to life, for generations both past and present. Hit after hit – over two hours of truly iconic Aussie rock n’ roll, and a fascinating tale to tell, with real life historic footage plus interviews with some of Australia’s greats who worked, lived, and loved with Stevie. The story is important on many levels. It’s important not only because it’s a part of Australian rock n’ roll
history that will reignite the fond memories of the baby boomers, but it can engage and educate a younger generation as well. Scott McRae and a five piece band star in this gripping ‘Rockumentary’ musical featuring the hit songs Evie, Friday on My Mind, Sorry, I’ll make you Happy, Good Times, and many more. Told for the first time, it’s a story that will be sure to rock your heart and soul! “The incredible exploits of Little Stevie and the incredible Easybeats are part of our national cultural fabric. To see it all come alive on stage, with obvious affection, is a rewarding experience”. Glenn A. Baker. STEVIE at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith. Season 13 & 14 June. Tickets: $30 - $49. Bookings: 4723-7600 or visit: www.jspac. com.au
SYDNEY Balalaika Orchestra with its traditional folk instruments and stunning costumes will take the audience on an unforgettable journey to the heart and soul of Russia when they perform at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Sunday, 15 June at 3pm. Led by musical director Victor Serghie and cimbalom player Lucy Varanov, this acclaimed orchestra of musicians and singers create arrangements of classic Russian folk songs and orchestra pieces that are simply breathtaking in their beauty, power and expression. The music for the orchestra is performed on original and traditional instruments such as the domra, balalaika, bayan, as well as clarinet, autoharp, guitar, tambura and percussion. The Sydney Balalaika Orchestra was founded more than 30 years ago by Volodya Savitsky and is a microcosm of the multicultural fabric of Australian society with performers from a diverse range of ethnic origins including: Armenian, Serbian, Croatian, Dutch, Scottish as well as Russian and Australian.
From achingly tender folk songs to the dizzying tempos of instrumental intensity, an afternoon spent with Sydney Balalaika Orchestra is to experience “the art of loving like a Russian”. Sydney Balalaika Orchestra is the first concert of The Joan’s fabulous 2014 Winter series which will also feature The Spooky Men’s Chorale – 20 July; and the James Valentine Travelling Radio Show – 10 August. Sydney Balalaika Orchestra at The Joan, 597 High Street Penrith. Performance: 3pm, Sunday 15 June. Tickets are $25 - $32; and includes complimentary glass of wine & nibbles after the show. Subscription to all three Winter concerts $66 - $87. To book call our Box Office on 47237600 or visit: www.jspac.com.au
E N T E R T A I N M E N T 30 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Step back in time EVENTS
1381 - Peasants’ Revolt: in England, rebels arrive at Blackheath. 1429 - Hundred Years’ War: Joan of Arc leads the French army in their capture of the city and the English commander, William de la Pole, 1st Duke of Suffolk in the second day of the Battle of Jargeau. 1665 - England installs a municipal government in New York City (the former Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam). 1889 - Philippine Declaration of Independence: General Emilio Aguinaldo declares the Philippines’ independence from Spain. 1939 - The Baseball Hall of Fame opens in Cooperstown, New York. 1942 - Holocaust: Anne Frank receives a diary for her thirteenth birthday. 1964 - Anti-apartheid activist and ANC leader Nelson Mandela is sentenced to life in prison for sabotage in South Africa. 1994 - Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman are murdered outside her home in Los Angeles, California. O.J. Simpson is later acquitted of the killings, but is held liable in wrongful death civil suit. 1994 - The Boeing 777, the world’s largest twinjet, makes its first flight.
JOKES
William “Will” Rogers was an American cowboy, vaudeville performer, humourist, social commentator and motion picture actor. He was one of the world‛s best-known celebrities in the 1920s and 1930s.Rogers, who died in a 1935 plane crash, was also one of the greatest political sages of the 20th Century. 1. “Never squat while wearing your spurs” 2. Never slap a man who‛s chewing tobacco. 3. Never kick a cow chip on a hot day. 4. There are two theories to arguing with a woman. Neither works. 5. Never miss a good chance to shut up.
BIRTHS
6. Always drink upstream from the herd.
1897 - Anthony Eden, English soldier and politician, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (d. 1977). 1924 - George H. W. Bush, American lieutenant and politician, 41st President of the United States. 1930 - Jim Nabors, American actor and singer. 1956 - Terry Alderman, Australian cricketer. 1957 - Javed Miandad, Pakistani cricketer and coach. 1963 - Warwick Capper, Australian footballer.
7. If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.
DEATHS
10. Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.
1957 - Jimmy Dorsey, American saxophonist, composer, and bandleader (The Dorsey Brothers and The California Ramblers) (b. 1904). 1980 - Billy Butlin, South African-English businessman, founded the Butlins Company (b. 1899). 1983 - Norma Shearer, Canadian-American actress and singer (b. 1902). 2003 - Gregory Peck, American actor (b. 1916). 2012 - Frank Walker, Australian judge and politician, 41st Attorney General of New South Wales (b. 1942).
8. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it and put it back into your pocket. 9. There are three kinds of men: The ones that learn by reading; the few who learn by observation; the rest of them have to pee on the electric fence and find out for themselves.
11. Lettin‛ the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier‛n puttin‛ it back. 12. After eating an entire bull, a mountain lion felt so good he started roaring. He kept it up until a hunter came along and shot him. The moral? When you‛re full of bull, keep your mouth shut.
CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Shackles (7) 5 Without ceasing (7) 9 Trademark or signature (9) 10 Long metal nail (5) 11 Tedious (7) 12 City in Washington state (7) 13 Estimate (9) 15 Whips (5) 17 A small picture inserted within another (5) 19 Unsteady in gait (9) 22 Frolic (7) 25 Affective (7) 26 Stitched (5) 27 Crooks (9) 28 Female siblings (7) 29 Funeral cars (7)
DOWN 1 Preventing (7) 2 Not thinness (9) 3 Punches of sweetened milk and eggs (7) 4 Whipping boy (9) 5 An attribute of a people or era (5) 6 Female (7) 7 Poet T.S. _____ (5) 8 Searchers (7) 14 Frisky or flirtatious (9) 16 Not reproductions (9) 17 Asserts (7) 18 Pretentious talk (7) 20 Strange or rare objects (7) 21 Suppositions (7) 23 Caterwauls (5) 24 Strikes with the feet (5)
solution 29/5/14
E N T E R T A I N M E N T 32
SUDOKU: EASY
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Cio
SOLUTION: 29th May
Cancer
by Aunty N.
INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates
CANCER the crab is the fourth sign of the zodiac for those born between June 21 and July 22. The ruling planet is the moon, the Great Mother of the heavens in ancient times. A water sign, Cancer is one of the most sensitive signs of the zodiac although they often won’t show their emotions. Cancerians have a tough exterior, like the crab, and may retreat into their shells when feeling vulnerable. Another metaphor for the crab is the Cancerian attachment to their homes. Home and family are the most important element of a Cancerian life and when these are threatened the crustacean will mount an impressive attack with those pincers. The crab makes an extremely loyal friend to those who appreciate and support them. Their sensitivity makes them a great friend to have when going through difficult times and they have the ability to make others feel good about themselves. On occasion, Cancerians can be a little oversensitive, moody or selfabsorbed. They generally dislike receiving advice or being told what to do. Famous Cancerians include Will
Ferrell, Ricky Gervais, Phyllis Diller, Bill Oddie, Dave Allen, Tom Hanks, Vin Diesel, Tom Cruise, Lindsay Lohan, Meryl Streep, Kathy Bates, Anjelica Huston, Ginger Rogers, Liv Tyler, Natalie Wood, Michael Phelps, Mike Tyson, Schapelle Corby, Jessica Rowe, Vera Wang, Giorgio Armani, Hugo Boss, Oscar de la Renta, Rembrandt, Helen Keller, Ernest Hemmingway, George Orwell, Henry David Thoreau, Nelson Mandela, Prince William, Princess Diana, Julius Caesar, Angela Merkel, Benazir Bhutto, Mary McAleese. Careers that Cancerians would enjoy include doctor, pharmacist, teacher, nutrionalist, personal trainer, chef, lawyer, politician, historian, realtor or antiques dealer. The best relationship matches for Cancer are Taurus, Scorpio, Virgo and Pisces.
THURSDAY NIGHTS 7-9PM
Free to Play INTERACTIVE FUN FOR EVERYONE TEAMS OF ANY SIZE - ALL AGES HIT THE BUZZER
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SATURDAY 26TH JULY, 7PM DOORS OPEN 7.30PM FOR A 8.00PM START TICKETS: $15 MEMBERS, $20 NON-MEMBERS
WHY NOT ENJOY YOUR NEXT SPECIAL OCCASION IN OUR FABULOUS FUNCTION CENTRE. Enquires at the club.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY SATURDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY JUNE 13TH - 8PM JUNE 14TH - 7PM JUNE 20TH - 8PM JUNE 21ST - 8PM
BACKLASH THE REMIXES KOPPEN TERRACE TIME MACHINE FULL $10 LUNCH MENU Complimentary beer, wine or soft drink (members only). 7 to choose from. Monday-Friday Only
SUNDAY MONSTER RAFFLE Starts t att 6 6.30pm 30 Ti Tickets k t on S Sale l from 5pm A variety of prizes
ROAD FROM EMU FORD (Part 2) Building the Road By Anne-Maree Whitaker
W
illiam Cox kept a journal during the building of the road over the Blue Mountains which gives us a fascinating insight into the harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain which he had to overcome. The hardest sections to build were those which have left the most significant physical evidence, the Linden-Woodford precinct in the mid-Mountains and the road down Mount York. The road party, including only around thirty who were actually road makers, were equipped with basic but essential tools – felling axes, cross-cut saws, hoes for clearing the path; crowbars, tomahawks, sledgehammers for breaking and moving stone; a single iron maul and wedges ‘of sizes’ for quarrying stone; some carpentry tools, pit-saws; a smith’s anvil, small bellows, steel, and two sets of blasting tools and 25lb of gunpowder. The men were supplied with tools, clothing and footwear all of which required repairs and replacement during the course of the project. Men who were sick and injured were given time off to recover, and during the worst of the cold and wet winter weather all work ceased. The construction of a descent from the bluff at Mount York took William Cox and his road party five weeks between 7 November and 14 December, 1814. Cox referred in his Journal to ‘hard ground’ full of ‘very large rocks’ and he commented frequently on the amount of time, labour and gunpowder needed to complete the pass down the mountain with large rocks cut and ‘turned out’ of the road line or blasted away. This work has left substantial physical remnants of the old Cox’s Road visible in this area, including cuttings, gutters, retaining walls, fence sockets, and two bridge sites. These obvious remnants made this section of Cox’s Road one of the best known and most celebrated in the past. Cox’s Pass was specifically named by Governor Macquarie in 1815 ‘to perpetuate the memory of Mr Cox’s services’ in completing ‘this grand and extraordinary pass’. Some food was supplied to the road party by the Government stores but supplemented from Cox’s property ‘Clarendon’ near Richmond. In particular fresh beef was brought in to replace the workers’ monotonous diet of salt pork, and cabbages proved an effective way of increasing their intake of fresh vegetables. Biscuits and flour provided carbohydrate while sugar was added to their tea to provide extra energy. Once they got down Cox’s Pass from Mount York they were able to add
freshwater fish to their diet of preserved meat and kangaroo. Special treats included the allowance of a gill of spirits and a new shirt each at Christmas. Cox also gave special consideration to the men’s family circumstances. On 5 December he wrote to the Reverend Robert Cartwright at Windsor to send two of the gaol gang to harvest three acres of wheat for John Tindall of the Castlereagh district, who had a large family. Tindall did not seek permission to go himself in case others sought the same indulgence. Now and then spurious claims emerge that Cox subjected his men to floggings and leg irons, and that unknown numbers of them died. This is completely untrue as the men volunteered to work in exchange for pardons, and not one of them died. The only death was actually Sergeant William Bounds who died of natural causes. In fact the most censorious comment recorded by Cox is on 9 December: ‘several of the men appear to be inclined to give in and shirk work, the greater part of whom, in my opinion, are quite as well as myself. Gave them a reproof in earnest, which I expect will make them all well by tomorrow.’ On 10 December Cox sent six married men back to put the finishing touches to the road down from Mount York with the promise of an early discharge when it was finished. They were Stephen Parker, John Ross, John Tindall, Patrick Hanrahan, Patrick Kernan and Thomas Watkins. Cox recorded that they completed their task on 15 December and their bedding was taken back to Emu Ford in the bullock cart.
35 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
nepean history
36
real estate
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Stanton & Taylor – First National established since 1960! SINCE 1960 Stanton & Taylor has grown considerably. When John Taylor first set up shop it was an office of three people – a secretary, a salesman and himself. Today our team exceeds twenty and specialises in residential sales, property management, project marketing as well as commercial leasing and sales. Now with Greg Taylor as Principal and Michael Taylor as Manager of Commercial Sales and Leasing this is a third generation Taylor Family business. No other real estate, in the Penrith region has been established as long as Stanton & Taylor. We have a level of local knowledge and real estate expertise that exceeds all others and we have a respectable name in the industry; something which can only be earned through years of consistent professionalism, integrity and by achieving excellent results for our clients. Integrity and professionalism – In real estate it is important to deal with people in whom you can place your trust. You need to know that professionals are committed to working towards the results you want to achieve. Our staff are consistently recognised for their reliability, and for meeting, and often exceeding, the expectations of our clients. Results – When selling your residential property we apply our
local knowledge, and real estate experience, to develop a customised marketing strategy that will achieve the best result. To optimise the return on your investment property we do more than just collect the rent – we take care of everything, including finding the right tenant. Prominence and Position - Our office occupies a prominent, highexposure position in High Street, the heart of Penrith. Our top of the range LED lit window display attracts an enormous amount of attention putting your home in the limelight. We are the first port of call for buyers looking to purchase in the area, ensuring unrivalled exposure. If you are thinking of selling, take a walk
down High Street and let us know whose window you want to see your property marketed in. Residential Sales – Our sales team is comprised of five experienced Senior Sales Executives with decades of experience between them. We’re committed to remaining at the forefront of the industry without sacrificing the personal touch. We employ innovative marketing strategies and the best professional service providers while our highimpact marketing is designed to showcase your property in its best light. Our unrivalled understanding of the local market and buyer behaviour enables us to provide informed advice
and tailored marketing solutions focused on achieving optimal results. Our sales agents are loyal, long term employees hand-picked for their expertise and commitment. We have an extensive database of past, present and future clients, to whom we target our marketing campaigns. Our salespeople will actively seek buyers for your property. And as part of our guarantee, we commit to keeping you fully informed as to the progress of your sale and response in the market. Commercial Sales and Management – Michael Taylor is a dedicated and tenacious selling and leasing agent specialising in the local Penrith commercial and industrial markets. Michael has built a base of customer enquiry and clientele that enables him to join the dots and make deals happen. Administration Support – Our friendly reception staff and support team work tirelessly to ensure a smooth, streamlined and stress-free service. Our dedicated focus on marketing and negotiation, in particular the use of leading technology, has helped position our business as one of the most progressive real estate agencies in operation today. Call our office on 4731 2899 today to speak with one of our staff members today.
Credit Reporting Changes You Need To Know About With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker
THE way your credit information has been collected and stored in Australia is now changing and how we pay our debts will impact most of us in various ways. Up until now, only serious negative information has been collected and used in helping credit providers in accessing our ability or inability to make repayments for new applications. This system only collected information when repayments were more than 60 days in arrears, called defaults, court ordered financial judgements or bankruptcies. Unfortunately over 30 per cent of Australians have this negative credit data and negative credit ratings on their records which can stay there for up to 7 years. Also, any applications for credit are also recorded but the current system is limited to that information only. However, credit providers have
now started transitioning to the new “Positive Credit Reporting” from March this year. This is the system used in most developed countries and collects a lot more negative and positive information which most lenders will shortly start to use to gauge if you are a good or bad risk to them. Credit providers will be sharing data on when applications are approved, what the amount lent is and when you are more than 5 business days late making your scheduled repayments. Every time you are more than 5 days late making repayments, you get a cross against your file. When the repayments are made within 5 days of the due date, you get a tick. These crosses and ticks are kept on a 2 year rolling list so credit providers can see how good or bad you are in making your repayments over the last few years. It is not just banks and lenders who may use this new system but other institutions like phone companies and utility providers and even local councils. A lot of Australians have a fairly
Do you have time to compare over 30 lenders?
relaxed attitude to paying their bills on time. If this is you, then you need to change your ways. You can arrange direct debits from your bank account or credit card to pay almost every bill now so there are no excuses to say that you simply forgot to pay on time. Credit providers who supply this new detailed information can then have access to other credit providers who have also supplied it. At this stage no providers are suppling it but they are collecting the data and will start to share it over the next year. So if you are someone that doesn’t pay on time, you may find it more difficult to obtain credit in the future. This data will be added to the usual data they get from the application like stability and type of employment and employers, stability of where you live, the number, type and amount of current commitments and your living expenses etc. Most of the larger banks use a credit scoring model so each application ends up with a credit score. A bad score could mean that the lender may decline the application or may only offer you credit at a higher interest rate or with higher fees perhaps to
offset the perceived extra risk that the provider thinks you may be. Credit providers will be able to see how many loans and credit cards etc that you have. This should make it harder for people who have too much credit to get any more, which is in the applicants’ long term interests anyway. Here is the good news. For people who have a good credit histories and a good credit score, lenders may be willing to give you a lower interest rate as they will be more confident that you will not cause them any problems in making all of your repayments. This new credit reporting system will be gradually be taken up, initially by the bigger banks, and then over time by the smaller banks and lenders then most credit providers eventually. So it is your own interest to keep your repayments on time and you will less problems getting credit in the future. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.
Ph: 4739 4500 Mob: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au
SOUTH PENRITH
OFFERS OVER $830,000
WERRINGTON DOWNS
OFFERS OVER $449,000
LUXURY ELEGANCE & SOPHISTICATION
JUST MOVE IN....HARD WORK IS DONE
If you are looking for a piece of paradise and you’re ready to sit back, relax & enjoy life then this property has the lot. The moment you step through the door this home exudes style and sophistication, being well appointed with modern fittings and ample space for the whole family. This luxury home features a galley style kitchen, formal lounge & dining room, large family room, four generous bedrooms with ensuite to main and walk in robes. Vehicles access the property via a double width driveway with 2.5 car accommodation in the lock up garage. The home is situated on a generous 720sqm block. Outside you are presented with a stunning alfresco entertaining area overlooking the sculptured in ground salt water pool.There is side access for those with grown up toys all surrounded by manicured gardens & lawns. If you can see yourself living in luxury, sitting by the pool on those warm balmy evenings entertaining friends & family then this property is right for you. Contact the team at Stanton & Taylor for more information or to arrange an inspection.
This 3 bedroom home with built in wardrobes to two bedrooms has been nicely renovated by current owners. The lounge/dining area is tiled throughout and kitchen and bathroom is very modern and tastefully renovated. The covered carport with locked gates doubles as an entertainment area with rear yard access. 2 Split System air conditioners and ceiling fans.
CAMBRIDGE GARDENS
CAMBRIDGE PARK
OFFERS OVER $460,000
There is an additional pergola area at the back of the home. It is a fully fenced level block and pet friendly. There is a garden shed, new Hot Water System and solar panels which generate approximately half the energy through the panels. A must to see! Properties like this do not last long! Contact our friendly staff at Stanton & Taylor - First National today for further information.
PICTURE PERFECT
OFFERS OVER $380,000
SPACE, SERENITY & SECURITY
Immaculately presented home situated in a superb precinct. A home which is perfect for the growing family as it features include but are not limited to: Three double sized bedrooms with built in wardrobes, well-appointed kitchen with plenty of cupboard space and large breakfast bar opening onto dining room, spacious lounge room and formal dining, three way bathroom with fully tiled walls, 2nd toilet in laundry and single lock up garage. The home is fitted with plantation shutters, down lights and ducted air conditioning. The main feature of this home is a massive sundrenched sunroom with split system a/c ideal for entertaining, kids rumpus room or watching the State of Origin with a bunch of mates. There is a solar heated in- ground sparkling swimming pool, fully fenced pool area and yard and outdoor pergola area. Land size is 658m2. This list is endless, so book an appointment before it is too late!!!
This townhouse is the pick of the best complex in the area, being only one of two detached rear units offering such peace and seclusion. The large sundrenched garden and pergola provides a delightful indoor / outdoor flow. Terrific design (with master bedroom suite on the ground floor) and great location 1.2km to the train and close to Nepean Hospital make it a highly desirable and convenient abode or a sure investment win providing excellent returns and the best chance of a quality tenant. • 3 double size bedrooms all with built-ins • Ground floor master suite with ensuite • Modern galley kitchen and large living area • 2 x split system reverse cycle a/c (1 up/1 down) • Block out shutters over large picture windows • Large drive through automatic garage to carport • Expected rental return $390.00 - $410.00 pw (approx.) • Strata $400 PQ Council $287 PQ (approx.)
PENRITH
CAMBRIDGE GARDENS
OFFERS OVER $619,950
A SLICE OF PARADISE
MASSIVE BLOCK!!
This home provides style and sophistication and offers the lot for the discerning buyer. With outstanding features including 3 large bedrooms plus study/guest bedroom, 2 elegant bathrooms including ensuite to main, modern granite/timber kitchen and cathedral ceilings to name a few. With plenty of space inside and out there is room for everyone. A corner block with front and rear entry providing easy access while maintaining privacy in an oasis setting. Featuring: * Large Yard with rear access * Spa Room * In ground Salt Water Pool * Double rear Carport * Work Shop * Entertaining Undercover Area * Ducted Air Conditioning * Alarm System * Rain water tank With nothing to do but relax and enjoy, this home would suit a growing family, tradesperson, investor or those with grown up toys (Boat, Caravan or Motorhome). 878m2 (approx) land size
GREG TAYLOR 4731 2899
ROD McIVOR 0433 189 715
OFFERS OVER $460,000
JOSEPH VELLA 0403 183 638
Immaculately presented four bedroom home situated on an 803m2 block. The land is zoned R2 Residential (low density). The home features include but are not limited to: Four bedrooms, open plan kitchen, spacious living room with air-conditioner and wood fire combustion heater, bathroom with separate toilet, office area, large pergola ideal for entertaining and carport. This property also features a massive fully fenced rear yard ideal for a second dwelling (i.e Granny Flat). Conveniently located opposite reserve and near Coles Shopping Centre. Register your interest before it’s too late!!
TINA O’TOOLE 0416 043 814
JUSTIN COHEN 0481 147 841
371 High Street, Penrith | www.stantonandtaylor.com.au
|
MICHAEL TAYLOR 0414 993 777
4731 2899
sport
40 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Race with Royce THE Sport of Kings is linking with the Prince of Hookers to race two royally bred fillies – and you can be part of the action. This is truly a unique racing proposition involving a partnership between legendary New Zealand breeder, Sir Patrick Hogan, Hawkesbury trainer Tony McEvoy and Royce Simmons, the organiser of the Penrith Panthers Captain’s Club. On his recent trip to the New Zealand Bloodstock yearling sales at Karaka, Tony negotiated a three year lease with Sir Patrick on fillies from Cambridge Stud. To celebrate McEvoy-Mitchell Racing’s recent commitment to the Penrith Panthers by joining the Captain’s Club, the club has taken up a 50% share of the lease for these two fillies for a couple of seasons. The upshot is that with leasing a racehorse there is no purchase price however lessees cover all costs of training during the term of the lease. The ‘team’ is also keen to fill the 50% balance of these leases with people involved and/or associated with the Penrith Panthers – they want to keep it in the family! The fillies arrive in mid-June and will be paraded on Sunday, July 13 - this would be an ideal time for other potentially interested parties to come along, meet Royce and see the fillies and the stables. One filly is called Simmons Express and the other, Simmonstar. For further information, call Simmo on 0418 793 375 or McEvoy Mitchell Racing’s Matt Benson on 0416 101 264
Win is a must for Panthers THE Pioneer Tavern Panthers men’s team faces yet another dangerous opponent this Saturday night at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, in round 11 of the 2014 Waratah Championship League (WCL) competition. The eighth-placed Panthers host the 12th-placed Manly Warringah Sea Eagles at 1pm on Sunday and will not necessarily be favourites to win, in spite of their higher position on the competition ladder. It has been an amazing season to date, with the success or failure of just a single game having kept some teams in the top six and others in the bottom half of the ladder. Penrith (5-6) leads ManlyWarringah (4-6) by just a single win, yet four positions separate the two teams. One more win would have put the Panthers in a lofty fifth spot on the ladder, indicating just how crucial every game has become this season. Sydney Kings NBL guard, Ben Kearins, makes a welcome return to the Panthers line-up
this Sunday, fresh from his successful tour of China with the NBL squad. Kearins’ energy and drive has been severely missed and the Panthers are performing well below their own expectations after the first 10 rounds. Head coach, John Hennessy, has been inspiring his new players to perform at the higher level but needs to get more consistency from his established men if the Panthers are to finish the season at the pointy end of the competition ladder. Manly-Warringah however, is also an enigma this season and have been mixing up their form week by week. The former premiers have a number of players in Top Ten statistical categories but those individual performances are not gelling into regular success for the team. One of these two teams will get a much-needed boost in the direction of the Top Six this Sunday, whilst the other will simply be sitting in a bigger hole and perhaps putting any playoff aspirations on hold permanently.
Rookie Nic Pozoglou has risen to the occasion in the Championship League. Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au
sport
PENRITH City Women’s Bowling Club had three teams enter in the 2014 State Carnival this year held down at Bomaderry and the surrounding area. No 1 team was Claire Minall, Joy Scott, Di Laugier, Jill MacDonald; No 2 comprised Ruth Wood, Kerry Shiels, Sharon Monsiegneur, Chris Scolari and representing No 3 were Lynn Gibson, Roberta Henry, Mary Byrne and Elaine Lord. Clair Minall’s team won the daily section 8 Monday and Tuesday and Ruth Wood’s team won daily section 9 on Tuesday. Both teams were in the playoff on Thursday morning in which Claire’s team was defeated 23-21 and Ruth’s outfit was defeated 19-12. Never mind, we’ll get them next year. Correspondent - Jill MacDonald. MARTIN “Spud” Murphy reports that in the final of the Men’s Club Major Singles at St Marys RSL Men’s BC, John “Spook” Davis 31 defeated Bill McNeilly 24 in a game which featured some tremendous touches from both finalists. THE Nepean District Over 65 Singles
started on Wednesday, May 14 at Wallacia BC. Section winners to progress to the next round were: Section 1 - John Burke (G Panthers), Section 2 - Gordon Petterson (B City), Section 3 - Ron Kennewell (B Workers), Section 4 – Bruce Chamberlin (Wallacia), Section 5 - Mal Cameron (St Marys RSL), Section 6 - Bob Harris (Springwood), Section 7 – Joe Scott (Penrith), Section 8 - Vince Morgan (Springwood), Section 9 - Ian Sullivan (Springwood), Section 10 - John Phelps (B City), Section 11 - Ted Sommerville (Penrith) and Section 12 - Bill Thorn (Windsor). In the playoff winners were: John Burke, Bruce Chamberlin, John Phelps and Ian Sullivan while in the semi-finals John Burke beat Bruce Chamberlin and John Phelps tossed Ian Sullivan. This left John Burke and John Phelps to fight out the final in which both bowlers started off slow until John Phelps scored 7 shots in 3 ends to lead 12-3 after 10 ends. John Burke fought back over the next few ends to trail 11-12 after 15 ends. Burkie briefly took the lead 19-18
With Col Crossingham
after 24 ends but then scores were tied 22 all, 27 all and 28 all. John Phelps finished the strongest with 1 shot on the 39th end and 2 shots on the 40th end to take the title in a game played in the true spirit of sportsmanship. District Chairman of Selectors Mal Cameron marked the Final. NOW onto results of the 1st Round of the Zone 5 Pennants. Grade 4 – Penrith were defeated by Crookwell 57-75; Grade 5 – Blacktown Workers lost to Camden 60-73; Grade 6 – Kingswood lost to Campbelltown City 54-60; Grade 7 – Blacktown City were defeated by Campbelltown City 51-58. Good luck to all teams in the Zone Finals Round Robin this weekend. TIME to have a look at news out of the juniors. The NSW CHS Singles and Pairs Championships were recently held at Warilla BC. Junior bowlers, both boys and girls, from Nepean District and from around Zone 5 took part in the event. The boys were Emmett McLeod
Penrith), Andrew Watkins and Luke Millican (Wisemans Ferry), Matthew Schultz (Blacktown Workers), Nathanael Carr, Bradlee Roberts and Ben Cox (Orange City), Thomas Holburn (Glenbrook Panthers) and Zach Corr-Johnson (Campbelltown City). Making it through to the quarter finals were Zach who lost to Danyon Christie, Emmett who defeated Jordan Taylor, Luke who tossed Jayden Gebbie, Andrew who beat Shaun Mitchell and Ben who defeated Jeremy Hillam. The final results were: Emmett finished with the bronze medal after beating Luke in the playoff for third placE; Zach 7th, Matthew 13th, Andrew 19th, Bradlee 25th, Ben 27th, Nathanael 31st place and Thomas Holburn 31st place. Girls from around Zone 5 included Maddeline Lees (Blayney), Cindy McGrath (Majellan Bathurst), Tiffany and Tiarna Ellis (Kingswood) and Serena Abrahams and Cayla Nicholson from Penrith High School. The final results were Cindy 13th place, Serena 19th place, Tiffany Ellis 20th, Cayla 22nd place, Maddeline 23rd place and Tiarna 24th place.
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
ON THE MAT
41
& B F Goodrich
Round
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
SOU PAN 14 WES STG
42
15
&
June 13 7.45pm
SYD NEW
BUL PAR
GCT MEL
CAN BUL
NZW BRI
CRO MAN
MEL PAR
GCT NEW STG NQC
June 14 7.30pm
June 15 3.00pm
June 16 7.00pm
June 20 7.45pm
June 21 5.30pm
June 21 7.30pm
June 22 2.00pm
June 22 3.00pm
June 14 5.30pm
June 23 7.00pm
SCORE
Y T O Celebrity O F R TIPSTERS E V E F Brett McVea ~ National Locksmiths
122 Andrew Kurczewski ~ PC Signage
108 Mark Fitzpatrick ~ Penrith Valley Pest Control
★
BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 12
110 Steve Hurley ~ All About U Promotions
112 Alex McKenzie ~ Future Financial Services
108 Cameron Faico ~ Property Central
102 Dave Seager ~ Seager Financial Services
90 Troy Kennedy ~ sellmycarcarbuyers.com.au
98
★
BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 12
Richard Mortimer ~ Electra Cool
118 Anthony Walker ~ BOQ
110 Vic Shipley ~ Powersmart Electrical
106 NEPEAN NEWS CELEBRITY TIPSTER SHIELD PROUDLY DONATED BY
47217436
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15
June 13 7.45pm
PAN STG
SYD NEW
BUL PAR
GCT MEL
CAN BUL
NZW BRI
CRO MAN
MEL PAR
GCT NEW STG NQC
June 14 5.30pm
June 14 7.30pm
June 15 3.00pm
June 16 7.00pm
June 20 7.45pm
June 21 5.30pm
June 21 7.30pm
June 22 2.00pm
June 22 3.00pm
June 23 7.00pm
John Veitch ~ Heartland Holden
108 Mark Geyer ~ Nepean News columnist
106 Steve Beard ~ Select Mortgage
108 Nicole Keene ~ Blink Property
118 John Thain ~ Penrith Councillor
102 Bernard Bratusa ~ Penrith Councillor
112 Tim Reynolds ~ O’Donoghues
116 Trent Pittaway ~ Blue Cattledog Hotel
118 Lee Hampton ~ Pro Frame
118 Michael Creed ~ Nepean News Columnist
112 Garth Tengdahl ~ GTs - Penrith Valley Painting Service
98 NEPEAN NEWS CELEBRITY TIPSTER SHIELD PROUDLY DONATED BY
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43 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
SOU 14 WES Round
SCORE
Y T O Celebrity O F R TIPSTERS E V E F
sport
44 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
MG Cup Ladders WELL the hottest team across the three competitions is under 14 S outfit, Chifley Mt Druitt. The youngsters are unbeaten in four outings and have notched up 126 points for and are yet to concede one point – a marvellous record of which they can be mighty proud. OPENS TEAM
PLAYED
WON
LOST
DRAW
BYE
PTS FOR
PTS AGST
POINTS
Kingswood
4
4
0
0
0
80
34
8
Jamison
4
2
2
0
0
80
54
4
Richmond
4
1
2
1
0
54
64
3
Winmalee
4
0
3
1
0
22
84
1
DRAW
BYE
PTS FOR
PTS AGST
POINTS
UNDER 16’S TEAM
PLAYED
WON
LOST
Chifley Mt Druitt
2
2
1
0
0
50
22
4
Xavier
3
2
1
0
0
44
26
4
Jamison
3
2
1
0
0
54
42
4
Glenmore Park
3
2
1
0
0
44
34
4
Chifley Dunheved
3
1
2
0
0
34
44
2
UNDER 14’S TEAM
PLAYED
WON
LOST
DRAW
BYE
PTS FOR
PTS AGST
POINTS
Chifley Mt Druitt
4
4
0
0
0
125
0
8
Jamison
4
3
1
0
0
86
52
6
Erskine Park
4
2
2
0
0
76
86
4
Glenmore Park
4
2
2
0
0
62
102
4
Cranebrook
4
1
3
0
0
54
100
2
The man in the middle is the man in the middle laying down the rules to teams prior to the kick-off.
Thump! The referee watches intently as a conversion is attempted.
UNDER 14 YEARS ROUND 1 MAY 6 Pool A Erskine Park 24 Glenmore Park 28 Chifley Mt Druitt 30 Jamison 0 Cranebrook bye Pool B Hawkesbury 12 Nepean 34 Blaxland 32 Riverstone 20 Xavier bye ROUND 2 MAY 13 Pool A Erskine Park 0 v Chifley Mt Druitt 40 Cranebrook 14 v Glenmore Park 18 Jamison bye Pool B Hawkesbury 18 v Blaxland 26 Xavier 12 v Nepean 6 Riverstone bye ROUND 3 MAY 27 Pool A Erskine Park 36 v Cranebrook 18 Glenmore Park 16 v Jamison 24 Chifley Mt Druitt bye Pool B Hawkesbury 6 v Cranebrook 18 Nepean 52 v Xavier 12 Blaxland bye ROUND 4 JUNE 3 Pool A Jamison 46 v Cranebrook 6 Glenmore 0 v Chifley Mt Druitt 40 Erskine Park bye Pool B Riverstone 0 v Xavier 16 Nepean 12 v Blaxland 20 Hawkesbury bye ROUND 5 JUNE 10 Pool A Erskine Park v Jamison Chifley Mt Druitt v Cranebrook Glenmore Park bye Pool B Hawkesbury v Riverstone Blaxland v Xavier Nepean bye SEMI-FINALS JUNE 17 Pool A winner v Pool B runner-up Pool B winner v Pool A runner-up GRAND FINAL JUNE 25 St Marys Stadium Winner semi 1 v winner semi 2 UNDER 16 YEARS ROUND 1 (MAY 8) Pool A Erskine Park 16 Chifley Dunheved 20 Chifley Mt Druitt 22 Jamison 16 Xavier v Glenmore Park Pool B Cranebrook 16 Nepean CAPA 0 Hawkesbury 16 Riverstone 0 Winmalee 22 Richmond 16
MG addresses a team prior to the kick-off. He always stresses the need for fair play.
ROUND 2 MAY 15 Pool A Xavier 18 v Chifley Dunheved 10 Jamison 12 v Glenmore Park 10 Chifley Mt Druitt bye Pool B Cranebrook 12 v Hawkesbury 36 Winmalee 4 v Nepean CAPA 6 Richmond bye ROUND 3 MAY 29 Pool A Glenmore Park 16 v Chifley Mt Druitt 12 Jamison 26 v Chifley Dunheved 10 Xavier bye Pool B Cranebrook 0 v Winmalee 10 Richmond 8 v Hawkesbury 30 Nepean CAPA bye ROUND 4 JUNE 5 Pool A Jamison 16 v Xavier 6 Chifley Mt Druitt 28 v Chifley Dunheved 12 Glenmore Park bye Pool B Cranebrook 0 v Richmond 16 Hawkesbury 16 v Nepean CAPA 0 Winmalee bye ROUND 5 JUNE 12 Pool A Chifley Dunheved v Glenmore Park Xavier v Chifley Mt Druitt Jamison High bye Pool B Nepean CAPA v Richmond Winmalee v Hawkesbury Cranebrook bye SEMI-FINALS JUNE 19 Pool A winner v Pool B runner-up Pool B winner v Pool A runner-up GRAND FINAL JUNE 25 St Marys Stadium Winner semi 1 v Winner semi 2 OPENS ROUND 1 MAY 7 Kingswood 20 Jamison 16 Winmalee v Richmond TBP ROUND 2 MAY 14 Kingswood 16 v Winmalee 0 Jamison 18 v Richmond 14 ROUND 3 MAY 28 Kingswood 30 v Richmond 8 Jamison 36 v Winmalee 6 ROUND 4 JUNE 4 Kingswood 14 v Jamison 10 Winmalee 0 v Richmond 16 ROUND 5 JUNE 11 Kingwood v Winmalee Jamison v Richmond ROUND 6 JUNE 18 Kingswood v Richmond Jamison v Winmalee GRAND FINAL JUNE 25 St Marys Stadium 1st Overall v 2nd Overall
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WITH MARK GEYER
WE’RE KING OF THE CASTLE! ONLY the real avid Panthers fan could have forecast their team being on TOP of the competition table as we hit the halfway point of this year’s premiership. In a remarkable season, the Mountain Men have gone about their business, coincidentally, the same way their coach goes about his- with style and professionalism. Where do you start in dissecting their flamboyant march to the top of the ladder? Let’s start up front and work our way back. The Panthers front rower Brent Kite has been amazing for his new team, providing untold experience when it matters most. James Segyaro, wow, what a season he is having! His individual try from 40m out against the Titans last Saturday sums up his year to date – dazzling – and Sam McKendry is back to his Kiwi international form. Sika Manu, after a slow start to the year through injury has ‘that look’ about him once again. Tyrone Peachey is close on the buy of the year given his recent form, and Elijah Taylor, the extremely professional tradesman, adds an abundance of experience too. Add to that six, Adam Docker, fellow hit-man Nigel Plum, versatile Lewis Brown, the underrated Jeremy Latimore, and skipper Kevvy Kingston and you have a pack of pigs with back-up that no other club boasts. Oh, and there’s also a kid called (Bryce) Cartwright ready to explode as well. So these are the blokes that roll the sleeves up and bring on the arm
the comp’s most improved player who is an inch away from State of Origin. Then we have the most exciting Panther of them all at the minute fullback Matt Moylan. Gee this kid is a good player! The type of player you build a team around. With the Dragons looking to topple the competition leaders this Saturday, let’s get behind our team that has busted their guts to be on top of the toughest competition on the planet.
MG pictured with the great Doc Neeson who sadly passed away last week.
wrestle - now for the smooth dudes who finish off their forwards’ hard work. Peter Wallace. Yes I was one. One of those that asked, “Why Peter Wallace?” after he signed to come back home. Now I’m one of the thousands saying, “Thank God for Peter Wallace”. He has been bloody amazing. And what of his sidekick, the enigmatic Jamie Soward? How good has he been for his new club? How good is it to see a massive
smile on his dial weekly? How good is it to see him backing himself in open play? Then outside Wallace and Soward is, in my opinion, the comp’s best centre in Dean Whare - he has it all. And what about this new kid, Isaiah Yeo? What a replacement he has proven to be for big Jamal Idris. He’s a keeper! Then we get to perhaps the competition’s best three ‘back men’. Dave Simmons, like a fine wine gets better with age, Josh Mansour,
WE lost one of Aussie Rock’s real legends recently with the passing of The Angels front man, Doc Neeson. I remember vividly growing up with song after song from the band which was country’s best in the late 70’s early 80’s. I had met Doc on several occasions and on each was blown away by how humble a fellow he was. His health hadn’t been that great of late and a brain tumour diagnosed last year finally getting the better of the great man. When I first started on The Grill Team on Triple M nearly five years ago, Doc came in for a chat and a song. We had a coffee after the show and he remarked how good Triple M had been to him over the years – he was the first of our star guests to sign our “Pole of Fame”. If only you realised Doc how good you had been to your loyal listeners over the past 40 years! You’ll be missed mate, but your music will live on forever.
45 Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
Y Mark T O O F R E MY WORDS V E F
46
sport
Nepean News 12 June 2014 Issue 126
BARRIER RISE
with Tony Brassel
LET’S have a rundown on how our barrier trial tips from the last edition have fared. A few of them have got to the races but there is also a handful yet to strut their stuff. AROUSED: Resumed from a spell with solid 5th (3.5 lens) in a 1000m BM 75 at Hawkesbury on June 3. Showed plenty of toe and will strip much fitter for the outing. BENNETTA: Graham Begg slipped this classy miss up to Brisbane to resume in the Group 2 QTC cup at Eagle Farm on May 31. The mare stormed home from 10th on the turn for third behind Sacred
Tony Brassel is one of the most respected judges of horseflesh in the country. He is a form expert and racing analyst with SKY Racing and radio 2KY and has now joined the Nepean News’ stable of quality journalists.
Star and Masthead. Stick with her. BEAUTY IS: Made a solid debut when third in a 2YO Maiden at Hawkesbury on June 3. Backed off the map on that occasion but those who did their brass will soon recoup their losses. CAESAR AUGUSTUS: Les Bridge is still to produce this New Approach youngster. ISLES OF WONDER: Gai Waterhouse has won two recent trials with this Manhattan Rain filly – one at Randwick and the latest at Gosford on May 19 in an open trial. MANHATTAN ISLAND: “K” Moses puts this
polish on this unraced Manhattan Rain gelding. His second in a trial at Randwick on May 23 indicated he possesses plenty of ability. PINK PERFECTION: Peter Moody’s Mosman filly is still to get back onto the racetrack but has been brought to peak fitness with two recent city trial wins. Speedy customer set to score firstup. WINDRUNNER: David Vandyke has given this Commands filly two barrier trials recently and she’s won them both in good style. Don’t miss here!
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Thursday, 12 June 2014
sport
HARPO’S MARKS
A FEW editions diti back I wrote that a group of blokes who played for the Panthers in the early days, went up to the Gold Coast to see an old mate, Ralph Michaels, who was recovering from surgery to remove brain tumours. We took Ralph and his lovely wife, Glennis, just across the road to the Palm Beach Surf Club for what turned out to be a memorable and LONG lunch. Ralph was partially paralysed down his right side but fortunately his right claw was able to handle a schooner or 12 and he joyfully led us in the reminiscences as we told porkie after porkie about our footballing abilities. It was a wonderful occasion and one which all of us will never forget. Sadly, I have to report that our little team, bolstered by former Richmond team-mates, once again regrouped on the Gold Coast last Thursday to bid farewell to Ralph, who had passed away the previous Friday night. That dirty, rotten cancer had spread to his liver and lungs.
Glennis nursed him through his final weeks at home and was ably assisted by the arrival from her home in Mexico of daughter, Amanda, a registered nurse, and her husband and two young children. The large church at Reedy Creek was packed to bid farewell. Among those who attended the moving service were John Cartwright and the entire Gold Coast Titans first grade squad – Ralph’s son, Steve, is on the Titans player list. Ralph’s old footy mates who flew in from all over the country were Nick Saad, Dennis Coffey, Paul Wayling, Phil Bowen, Sam Gwynn, Bruce Miller, Phillip Ryan, Max Moffatt, Bob Beattie, Phil Sullivan, Lou Tomkins and your little, dumb mate. Ralph played his junior and early senior footy at Richmond. He was a member of the inaugural Penrith S.G. Ball (under 15) rep side in 1967 and later played three first grade games for the Panthers in 1971 before
linking with leading Brisbane outfit, Norths Devils. Other outstanding Penrith DJRL juniors in the early stages of their career with the Panthers that year were Ian McKechnie, Dennis Coffey, Zac Olejarnik, Gary Nelson, Reg Walton and the late Bruce Ward. A tall, speedy and skilful centre, Ralphie played two stints with the Devils (71-73 and 77-78), spent a season with Hull in England (197374), led Ayr to a grand final victory in 1976 and also won a premiership with Burleigh Bears in the powerful Gold Coast competition in 1979-80. Ralph Michaels – champion footballer, father and husband, grandfather and friend. SAD MARKS: R.I.P. Ralphie. He will be sadly missed. HIGH MARKS: Looking forward to Origin II. Sam Thaiday will add a lot of much-needed starch to the Maroons’ pack. This promises to be a bewdie!