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Thursday, 13 April 2017
ISSUE 198
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Locked up!
ANZ Penrith Bank Manager in lock-up! Bert Bronkhorst was one of many community members and leaders, business leaders, celebrities and sporting heroes who volunteered to get thrown in the can. It was all for a good cause; to do time and stop youth crime, raising funds for Penrith PCYC’s youth development and police crime prevention programs for local youth. Photo: Ian Moses, Open2View Penrith
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EASTER SUNDAY
FUN DAY
16th April ENTERTAINMENT from 12pm EASTER BUNNY 2pm EGG & SPOON RACES EGG PAINTING BOUNCY CASTLE (weather permitting)
ANZAC DAY Celebrate the spirit of anzac with us
TUESDAY APRIL 25TH
TWO UP 1pm to 5pm
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We have the BEST venue out West for Two Up!
Stay after 2 Up for something different!
THE BLUE MUGS UKELELE GROUP are here to entertain you in the afternoon
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is the place to go,” said Mayor Cr John Thain. Council’s award-winning Night Time Economy Strategy provides a blueprint to make Penrith residents, now and in the future, feel safe and enjoy the night life. “Council is planning to bring 10,000 new residents, more than 10,000 jobs and 5,000 dwellings to the City Centre by 2031.” “We want to spark the kind of ‘vibe’ that encourages people to socialise and engage with their community at all hours of the day and night. “We’re going to link different areas of our City to encourage a Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain and Council’s Assistant General Manager more vibrant atmosphere, enhance Craig Butler at the ‘SPARK… your city after dark’ event, celebrating Penrith’s bright night time economy. arcade trade and promote dining in and around the City Centre. Council celebrated its night time economy We’ll improve lighting, footpaths and signage and launched a new website at the ‘SPARK… and work with local businesses to support indoor and outdoor activities in spaces big and small. your city after dark’ event on Thursday 6 April. The SPARK website contains the latest And of course, we’re planning a range of events information about what’s happening and what to bring more life to the heart of the City,” said to do in the Penrith CBD after dark, including a Cr Thain. Council is working to create a City Centre guide to the exciting restaurants and eateries in High Street, Henry Street, Station Street and the that is busy, diverse and safe at night. For more information on the growing dining options in City Centre. “Whether you want to find a place to have Penrith’s City Centre and to keep up to date with dinner or you’re looking for an update on how progress on Penrith’s night time economy, visit Council is progressing in this space, the website the SPARK website.
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Night economy spark
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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry
Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Giving Hope Today Sunday Worship 10:00 AM Boy’s and Girl’s SAGALA (Similar to Scouts) 6:00 PM Monday Women’s Meeting 10:30 AM Thursday Street Dreams (Dance Group) 4:00 PM Thursday Kid’s Club 4:00 PM Friday (Dedications, Wedding or Funerals by appointment) 48 Luttrell St Glenmore Park P: 02 47331133 W: www.salvos.org.au/penrith E: salvospenrith@gmail.com
4 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
From the Editor’s Desk 203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:
Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Tom Carey 0425 803 180 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com
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by Kerrie Davies IT is hard to believe we are in April already! I must admit April is one of my favourite months of the year. The unbearable heat is behind us, but the bitter cold hasn’t set in as yet; and then there’s the abundance of public holidays that enable us to take the first breather since Christmas. It’s also a month of giving thanks. Church-goers will spend a fair chunk of this month giving thanks to the man upstairs, and as a nation we will give thanks to our defence forces past and present on Anzac Day. Let’s all set our alarm clocks nice and early on Anzac Day and head to the Dawn Service to show our diggers how much we appreciate the sacrifices they made for our nation and it’s people. Lets pause and reflect on the thousands who never made it back. Even if it is raining on Anzac Day morning and you’re warm in your bed, spare a thought for those who crawled through mud and often went with no sleep at all in order to survive. We no longer have any Australian WW1 vets living, My mother’s oldest sibling, John Buchanan Richardson, aged 93, (my Uncle Jacky) is one of an elite group of WW11 veterans still living; but that list is declining. In fact this year he’s now the only one left from WW11 in his Sub-branch. As time rolls on more and more great souls who gave the greatest sacrifice in the earlier theatres of war will leave this earth, and each year there will be less of them standing proudly displaying their well-earned badges on Anzac Day. Let’s stand by our diggers and roll up in droves this Anzac Day and as proud Australians let’s salute them now before it is too late. Lest We Forget.
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Celebrating 100 years Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP, had the pleasure of celebrating the 100th birthday of Kemps Creek resident, Ethel Smith. Tanya celebrated the special occasion with Ethel, her family and friends, where she was presented with a congratulatory message from the Speaker of the NSW Legislative Assembly, Shelley Hancock MP. Ethel likes to stay active by participating in various activities at the Emmaus Retirement Village. Her friends say that they reluctantly get involved in in-house competitions and games because Ethel wins almost every competition. Ethel is also kept very busy enjoying quality time with her 5 children, 22 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 3.5 great great grandchildren. When asked what her secret was to a long life, she modestly replied, “I don’t know how I got to this age but I have enjoyed life and have gotten involved in many things along the way.” “I would like to wish Ethel a very happy birthday and congratulate her on reaching such an incredible milestone,” Tanya Davies said. Ethel Smith celebrated her 100th birthday on 7 April 2017.
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9834 1044 NEPEAN DISTRICT
Stuart Ayres
MP
Member for Penrith
Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Girl, 11, donates $13,500 to hospital BROOKE Jones, a charity driven 11-year-old girl, has raised more than $13,000 for the Nepean Cancer Care Centre at the Nepean Hospital. Through her charity, Brooke’s Car Rally, the 11-year-old has raised more than $40,000 for numerous charities in the Nepean region across the last four years. Her enormous acts of charity are inspired by her mother’s diagnosis with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, when Brooke was 7. Staff at Nepean Hospital, including Dr Taper who cared for Brooke’s mother after she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, have welcomed the massive donation from Brooke. The donations will go towards patient facilities in the Cancer Care Centre. Earlier this year Brooke received the Young Woman of the Year award from the Member for Lindsay, Emma Husar. Even with this massive donation heading to the hospital, Brooke has made it her mission to pass the $50,000 mark for funds raised for charities. All money raised this year will go towards the Nepean Cancer Care Centre.
Breaking down barriers By Keegan Thomson
AIMING to raise awareness and lift the stigma around breast cancer in the Indian and Sri Lankan communities, Portraits in Pink is a special new exhibition on at the Penrith Library. The brainchild of the Pink Sari Project, Portraits in Pink is a community initiative which recognises Indian and Sri Lankan women who’ve survived breast cancer. Manisha Vyas, a breast cancer survivor from western Sydney, said the stigma around breast cancer within the Indian and Sri Lankan communities are devastating entire families. “In many communities of the sub-continent, daughters of women who have had this disease are subjected to discrimination along with the women themselves,” Ms Vyas said. “The women become vulnerable as they perceive mastectomy as loss of their femininity.” Ms Vyas said she has had conversations with survivors and she’s made it clear that there are many other ways to express womanhood. “I say to them, life is way more important and there are many more ways to express your femininity,” she said. Ms Vyas’ portrait is featured in the exhibition with her
photograph being taken by local photographer Siddhesh Rishi. Another one of the women featured in the Portraits in Pink exhibition is Lali Kumar, who said she felt enormously optimistic throughout her entire cancer battle. Her words are featured in the exhibition. “My daughter came and broke the news to me. “I found out that I had breast cancer, but for some reason, I was very happy. I can’t explain why. “I just accepted it,” she said. The exhibition will run at Penrith Library until April 27. Entry is free.
Laughing all the way to the bank By Keegan Thomson
AFTER initially thinking it was a joke, a retired Penrith woman is now laughing her way to the bank after she won a first prize jackpot of $100,000 in the Lucky Lotteries. The woman who wishes to remain anonymous said at first she thought it was a scam. “You know what, I thought it was scam. When someone said it was about lotteries I thought ‘oh another scam’ and hung up,” she said. “It’s a bit of a shock I can tell you. “I’ve settled down a bit. It’s the most I’ve ever won,” she said. When she first found out about her big win she said she couldn’t stop laughing. Penrith’s most recent lucky retiree said she used to have a connection with the lotto, some 60 odd years ago. “I actually drew the lottery once. “About 60 years ago, they used to have a big barrel and used to draw the numbers out. “They had to put me on a stool as I’m only short!” she said. Despite the big win, the Penrith woman said she didn’t know what she’d plan on doing with her massive $100,000 in prize money, but she did say it will go a long way. “I’ve got no idea at the moment. But
The owners of Lal’s Nextra Newsagent at Penrith Plaza Westfield are cheering for their lucky customer. Photo: Kennedi Geyer
it will make a big difference to me,” she said. The lucky ticket was purchased from the local Penrith Plaza Westfield newsagent, Lal’s Nextra. Shiu Lal, the owner of Lal’s Nextra, said the newsagent was celebrating
the fact that a ticket sold from their store was able to produce such a big win. “It’s amazing,” he said. “Congratulations to our lucky winner.” Mr Lal said the whole store is especially happy for the winner
because she is a regular customer. “The staff here are all very happy because she is one of our regular customers,” he said. “She was in tears of joy. This is what we work for - to make people happy,” he said.
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St Clair High set for $20 million rebuild following fire
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Education Minister Rob Stokes and Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies have announced St Clair High School will be extensively rebuilt with an Innovation Centre offering 16 future-focused classrooms plus a variety of flexible learning spaces and research areas. A fire devastated much of the school in June 2014 – destroying classrooms, computer labs and library areas. More than $20 million will be invested to rebuild St Clair High with significantly improved facilities and extensive landscaping to give it a university campus feel. Mr Stokes said he made a priority of visiting the high school to assess the school community’s needs shortly after becoming Education Minister earlier this year. “It was clear to me how important it was to get this redevelopment happening,” he said. “Mrs Davies has worked tirelessly on behalf of the St Clair community for the rebuilding project to not just replace the lost classrooms but substantially upgrade the facilities offered,” Mr Stokes said. The Innovation Centre’s design is intended to create learning environments that promote collaboration between students and accommodate the latest teaching methods. As well as 16 classrooms, the Innovation Centre also will feature a lecture theatre, a hub/café area, a large tiered learning space with links to external seating and extensive landscaping. There will be a commercial kitchen for teaching purposes. Mr Stokes said the Innovation Centre would replace temporary classrooms that have been set
up at the site across the school’s sporting field in the aftermath of the blaze. The sporting field will be restored as part of the project. “The new Innovation Centre will be a modern learning facility providing students and teachers with 21st century learning and teaching tools,” Mr Stokes said. Mrs Davies said she was proud to have secured the additional funding required to expand the school facilities. “I am delighted to announce funding for a new Innovation Centre that will provide a vastly
improved range of educational features and flexible learning spaces,” Mrs Davies said. “The new building will help serve the needs of our local students, providing access to state-oftheart facilities which will help students reach their full potential.” Over the last two financial years, just over $1 billion has been allocated to public school infrastructure – $456 million in 2015/16 and $554 million in 2016/17. This has led to 11 new or relocated schools and 14 major upgrade projects being delivered.
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Cheque for Mama Lana’s
POLICE FILES
Shooting in Whalan
Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined Lana and Roger Borg of Mama Lana’s Community Foundation (MLCF) to announce a grant of $20,130 through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership (CBP) program. MLCF is a wholly not-for-profit organisation dedicated to helping homeless and disadvantaged people in our community. The foundation offers hot meals six nights a week, supplies food and toiletry packs, as well as providing clothing, sleeping bags and blankets to keep the homeless and disadvantaged warm during cold nights.
“It was my pleasure to recommend this project for funding to assist Mama Lana’s with much needed improvements to their food storage system,” said Stuart Ayres. This grant will allow for the construction and installation of a combined freezer/coolroom offering increased capacity for food storage. It has also allowed for the removal of 7 freezers and 4 fridges reducing electricity usage and costs. “CBP funding helps community groups make a positive difference to our local community,” added Stuart Ayres.
POLICE are investigating after a man was shot in Sydney’s west on Saturday night. At 6pm on Saturday night, April 8, police were called to Waikanda Crescent, Whalan, after a 23-year-old man was shot outside a home. He received two wounds to his legs, and was taken to Westmead Hospital, however the injuries are not thought to be life threatening. Police from Mt Druitt Local Area Command (LAC) attended to the shooting and have established a crime scene, which will be examined by forensic specialists. Officers are looking for two males who fled the scene in two vehicles. One is described as a silver BMW, while the other is described as a grey Mitsubishi Lancer with a partial registration of CTE.
Pursuit through Kingswood
A man has been charged after a police officer suffered minor injuries following a pursuit through the western suburbs of Sydney last Friday afternoon. About 2.50pm on Friday April 7, officers attached to Penrith Highway
Patrol attempted to stop a vehicle on Stafford Street, Penrith, after it almost collided with another vehicle. The car failed to stop and police commenced a pursuit which travelled through a number of streets reaching speeds of more than 100km/h in a 50km zone. Both vehicles stopped at traffic lights on the cross of Parker Street and the Great Western Highway at Kingswood where it has been alleged the driver reversed into the police car causing damage. The officer attempted to arrest the driver, suffering a laceration to his arm, but the man was able to run away. The second occupant of the car, a woman, was arrested, however she was later released without charge. About 10.30am on Saturday April 8, police arrested a 29-year-old man at Lake Haven Shopping Centre, in Lake Haven in relation to the pursuit. He was taken to Wyong Police Station and charged with the use of a weapon to prevent lawful detention, resisting arrest, police pursuit, disqualified driving, use of unregistered vehicle, use uninsured vehicle, and breach of bail. He was refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court.
No chocky for doggy this Easter
With Easter just around the corner we thought we would discuss two common food types that we see around this time of year that can get our pets into trouble – chocolate and fatty foods. One of the most common diseases that we see in dogs around Easter and Christmas is a disease called pancreatitis – pancreatitis is very common after dogs eat a food that is high in fat. What is the pancreas and what’s pancreatitis? The pancreas is a small organ located behind the stomach. It has two main functions – the first is to produce insulin which regulates blood sugar. The other function is the production of digestive enzymes that helps the body break down and utilise food. Pancreatitis occurs when this organ becomes inflamed. There are several causes of pancreatitis such as medications and metabolic problems. However, one of the most common reasons for pancreatitis is due to a high fat meal, even a tiny piece of ham or sausage. What are the signs of pancreatitis and how is it diagnosed? Symptoms vary depending on severity but include a painful abdomen, depression, vomiting, fever and diarrhea. In very severe cases, dogs may
become collapsed and develop life threatening infections. Pancreatitis is usually suspected based on history and presentation. A definitive diagnosis is usually made with a combination of bloodwork and abdominal imaging (ie. x-rays or ultrasound). Treatment for pancreatitis is supportive and the aim is to correct dehydration, provide pain relief, control vomiting and prevent infection. Affected animals generally need to be placed on intravenous fluids for several days and given anti-nausea medications, pain relief and antibiotics. The prognosis for the majority of dogs with pancreatitis is good as long as they stop eating fatty foods! We all know that there is no shortage of chocolate around Easter time but it is very important that we all keep chocolate away from dogs and cats. Chocolate
contains cocoa and cocoa contains a compound called theobromine. Theobromine is unfortunately toxic to both dogs and cats. Chocolate toxicity occurs mainly in dogs as they are more inquisitive and they are more likely to eat foreign objects but it can also be seen in other pets. How much chocolate is toxic? The concentration of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate. Generally speaking, the darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine and hence the more toxic it is. If your dog eats any amount of chocolate, it is important to immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. The symptoms of a toxicity depend on the amount of chocolate eaten and they can vary in severity. They generally include excitement, trembling, vomiting, diarrhoea, increase heart rate and tremors. In severe cases, affected animals can even seizure and die. Unfortunately there is no anti-toxin available for theobromine and treatment is generally supportive. If your dog has eaten chocolate in the previous few hours then your veterinarian can induce vomiting through the use of medications. Medications such as activated charcoal can also be given orally as this binds up any leftover toxin. Animals that are already showing symptoms are also usually placed on a drip to help flush the toxin from their body. Have a happy and safe Easter and remember to keep your pets away from fatty foods and chocolate.
Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750
Phone 47 313 055
anzac TRIBUTE W
hen war broke out in 1914, Australia had been a federal commonwealth for only 13 years. The new national government was eager to establish its reputation among the nations of the world. In 1915 Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula in order to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies. The ultimate objective was to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul in Turkey), the capital of the Ottoman Empire, an ally of Germany. The Australian and New Zealand forces landed on Gallipoli on 25 April, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders. What had been planned as a bold stroke to knock Turkey out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months. At the end of 1915 the allied forces were evacuated, after both sides had suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers had been killed. News
of the landing on Gallipoli had made a profound impact on Australians at home, and 25 April soon became the day on which Australians remembered the sacrifice of those who had died in the war. Although the Gallipoli campaign failed in its military objectives, the Australian and New Zealand actions during the campaign left us all a powerful legacy. The creation of what became known as the “Anzac legend” became an important part of the identity of both nations, shaping the ways they viewed both their past and their future. The Dawn Service observed on Anzac Day has its origins in a military routine which is still followed by the Australian Army today. During battle, the half-light of dawn was one of the most favoured times for an attack. Soldiers in defensive positions were woken in the dark before dawn, so by the time first light crept across the battlefield they were awake, alert, and manning their weapons; this is still known as the “standto”. As dusk is equally favourable for attacks, the stand-to was repeated at sunset.
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
ANZAC: Shaping an Australian society
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anzac TRIBUTE
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The History of Two-Up
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
By Keegan Thomson
ON Anzac Day we pause to remember those who’ve fought for our freedom by observing different sacred and secular traditions. Over time those traditions have weaved their way into the fabric of Australian culture. One of the most loved traditions played exclusively on Anzac Day is the age old game of Two-Up. In the simplest of terms the game of Two-Up is pretty much glorified head-or-tails game with the added element of gambling. Although the game is banned nationally on any other day, there is an exception on Anzac Day. The rules and gameplay of TwoUp vary but on a traditional level they’re all the same. A ‘ringie’ places two coins tail side up on a kip (or paddle) whilst punters gather around a circular tarp on the ground. The spinner then uses the kip to toss the two coins at least 10 feet into the air with the crowd betting on whether the coins will land heads or tails up. The ringie’s job is to ensure the coins travel at least 10 feet into the sky and land on the circular tarp. If the spinner tosses the coins and they both land tails then the spinner keeps playing. If the coins both
land on heads then the game is over and the spinner loses. On the sideline the ‘boxer’ takes bets from punters who’re both betting on the luck of the spinner and the individual results of the tosses. The boxer is also usually the facilitator of the venue or a publican. Historically speaking the origins of the game are a little shady but it has been reported that games of Two-Up were played across the colonies as early as the 1790s and in the New South Wales gold fields
during the 1850s. The game became associated with the Anzac legend after diggers from World War One started playing it in the trenches. M. G. Heuston, served with 2/12th Commando Squadron during the Second World War, and he supplied the Australian War Memorial with an anecdote of his time running Two-Up games across battlegrounds. “In some places, a multitude of currencies was used. It was the boxer’s call which stated the exchange rate for any or all currency. In addition, he could exchange currencies. “At the end of the game, if the tail betters had had a good day, they would sling (tip) the boxer, to compensate him for the use of his facilities. “As the game was held more often than once a week, you found that some of your customers went broke. The boxer usually lent them enough for cigarettes and a beer until next pay. “A game would run for up to three or four hours,” M. G. Heuston wrote. You’ll find Two-Up played at many venues across the Nepean on Anzac Day. The rules may vary from place to place but the spirit in which it is played remains. Good luck and gamble responsibly!
Mayor John Thain Lest We Forget on Anzac Day 25.4.2017 John Thain: 0411 427 812 jthain@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au
Station St, Penrith Ph. 4732 4777
We pause with respect to honour those who fought, and those continuing to fight, putting their lives on the line for our great country.
anzac TRIBUTE By Keegan Thomson
LOCAL RSL subbranches are currently finding it hard to recruit younger veterans from contemporary conflicts and war zones into their memberships. At the moment less than 10 per cent of the membership held by veterans at the Penrith RSL sub-branch are under the age of 55, with only 4 members out of some 770 aged between 20 and 25. Brain Cartwright, the Vice President and Manager of Marketing and Recruitment at the Penrith sub-branch, said the effort to get younger veterans involved has been going on for the past five years. “How do you get new people in? That is the fifty million dollar question, isn’t it?” Mr Cartwright said. “We’ve literally had these conversations on again, off again for the past five years now but we don’t have a simple solution,” he said. Speaking to Nepean News Mr Cartwright, a veteran himself, said the problem needs to be looked at in a number of different ways. “I think what we need to do is to look at the problem from a different
More than 90 per cent of Penrith RSL’s members are over the age of 55. Photo: Facebook.
perspective,” he said. “One thing I see an issue in is, we’re deploying more and more troops overseas to numerous different conflicts and that presents a lot of new challenges. “Another thing is that contemporary vets are doing it tougher than anyone returning home from conflict before,” he said. “When they’re coming back the struggles are different.”
Stuart Ayres
One of the challenges facing contemporary veterans is homelessness, with around 40 veterans of modern day war finding themselves homeless across western Sydney, according to Mr Cartwright. Since the conflicts in East Timor in 1999, Mr Cartwright estimated that Australia has sent tens of thousands of troops overseas to fight or act on behalf of Australia.
According to Mr Cartwright those troops of the modern era are facing a whole new devil. “The contemporary vets, the vets from the wars of the past two decades, are facing a different kind of war,” he said. “They don’t know what the enemy looks like in these new conflicts,” he said. “It means you can never switch off and you’re always on guard.” With the large number of younger troops and vets not enrolled in any RSL sub branch, the team at the Penrith sub-branch are aiming to bring in new policies and incentives for younger vets. “We want to have a drop in centre set up so these vets can come in have a cuppa, play some cards or just have a chat with some like minded people,” Mr Cartwright said. “We want to also help the families of troops who’re overseas at the moment so that when they come back home they’ll have a support base here in the RSL,” he said. If you’re a veteran and you wish to become a part of the Penrith RSL sub branch you can visit their website at https://subbranch.penrithrsl.com.au/.
11 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Search for young veterans
MP
Member for Penrith
‘We pay tribute to those ‘We pay tribute to those Australians who foughtAustralians for who fought for our country and our values. our country and our values. Lest we forget’ Lest we forget’ Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, 510-534 Tattersalls 510-534 High Street, Penrith Shop 23, Penrith Centre, HighCentre, St, Penrith
Anzac Anzac Day is a time to reflect and remember the Australians who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. We shall commemorate the service and the sacrifice made by our men and women for our freedom.
St Marys Town Centre | PO Box 306 St Marys NSW 1790 02 9833 2433 | www.stmarystowncentre.com.au
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old, Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.
Lest We Forget www.wsnewsgroup.com
anzac TRIBUTE 12 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
By Keegan Thomson
TONY Mullavey received his “call up” to fight in Vietnam when he was only 19 years old, but young Tony had no idea what kind of conflict he was getting himself involved in. “I’d never even heard of the bloody place,” he said. “You knew there was something going on but you didn’t take a whole lot of notice of it.” After his numbers were called up Tony decided it was time to finish his apprenticeship as a baker and marry his teenage sweetheart, and in 1968 his training to be a military man began. “They stripped you down from what you were as an individual and made you into a member of the military. “We were told to jump when someone said jump, run whenever someone said run and shoot when someone told us to shoot,” he said. Growing up in Bathurst, a long way from the jungles of Vietnam, Tony’s simple upbringing shaped him into the solider he became. “Being a country boy I knew how to shoot, I was carrying a rifle from the time I was six years old.
A day in the life of...
“I thought since my trade was as a baker they’d send me to be a cook but because I’d grown up with a rifle in my hand I was a pretty good shot so they sent me to infantry,” he said.
On January 6, 1969, after completing his training, Tony was sent off to the wet, hot and humid jungles of Vietnam. “Before we left they told us we’d be fighting against the Viet Cong. We were told they wore a pair of sandals, black pyjamas, a Chinese style hat and they carried an AK-47 assault rifle. “The funny thing was, when we arrived in Vietnam everyone there wore black pyjamas, sandals and Chinese style hats. The only thing they didn’t have was the rifle,” Tony said. After being moved around Tony settled in the First Australian Task Force base in Nui Dat, in South Vietnam. His first job as a soldier was to partake in search and destroy missions deep into the Vietnamese jungles. Search and destroy missions involved a group of around seven soldiers marching out into the jungle in an attempt to find enemy bunkers and hide outs. When they found them they’d dig in and destroy them.
anzac TRIBUTE A Vietnam Solider
During the war the Viet Cong used a number of different trap mechanisms to maim or kill their enemy. Those traps included hidden spike pits with glass and knives at the bottom, grenade mines and in some cases hidden poisonous snakes in disposed weapons boxes. One morning, during a routine patrol of the base at Nui Dat, Tony fell victim to one of these traps hidden by the Viet Cong. “We were making our morning patrol of the area around the base. We would do it every morning to
check the perimeter for any enemy who might have set up over night. “One morning while, I was doing my patrol, I was walking along the path when I put my foot on a patch of ground. It didn’t feel right but I didn’t think much of it until without any warning I fell through the ground and into a great big bloody hole. “When I hit the bottom I was pretty worried but after a second or two I realised I couldn’t feel any pain in my feet or on my body, so I knew I was alright,” Tony said. The hole was around seven feet deep but with some help he was able to climb out unharmed. Towards the end of 1969, after he’d done his time, Tony was shipped home to Australia, though when he arrived back in Sydney he found himself in the middle of a complex and divided country. “There was so much going on because of people protesting. “Hindsight teaches you a lot but at the end of the day the government will still do the same thing over again and make the same bloody mistakes,” he said. Tony Mullavey is now the President of the St Marys Vietnam Veterans’ Outpost. They live by the motto, “Honour the dead but fight like hell for the living.”
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
“We would spend around six weeks in the bush on search and destroy missions. “We would be resupplied daily but it was a hard slog through the bush. “For me, my time in Vietnam was 300 days of slogging your guts out in the bush. “We would be patrolling and looking around for all sorts of things. You wouldn’t stop searching with your eyes. Just looking back and forward for anything or anyone. “It was boring but we’d always be hoping we wouldn’t have a contact with anyone,” Tony said. The jungles in Vietnam were thick, dark and dangerous, but for Tony a little Aussie bush ingenuity helped him conquer some of the hardest challenges. “The bush was so thick and you had to be really quiet when walking around. “The Viet Cong knew their land and would often spot us before we’d see them. “We had the problem of how do you cut through the bush without making any sound? So I got my dad to send me a pair of secateurs so I could cut through the bush without making much noise,” Tony said.
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“The ANZAC spirit was born on the shores of Gallipoli on the 25th of April 1915. We honour the sacrifices of the ANZACS, who fought for our freedoms and values that day. We also pay tribute to all men and women who have served or are serving in the Australian Armed Forces. For those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service, we will remember. Lest we forget.”
Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry Ph: 9833 1122 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au
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Legends of the Nepean By Garion Thain
Dr Rohitas Batta and his family have been residents of Sydney’s Greater West since 1998. Working, teaching, volunteering in the area, watching his children grow
Dr Rohitas Batta’s family when they arrived in 1998
up in local schools and just recently receiving an award from the United Indian Associations for his community involvement are aspects of Dr Batta’s life that he relishes every day. After being recognised for his community involvement, Dr Batta met with me at Panthers Penrith to talk about what his Excellence in Community award means and his further commendation of “Jewel of the Indian Community,” from the Ghandi Peace Centre. Dr Batta, who has lived in Kingswood, St Clair and now close to Cranebrook since coming to Australia as a skilled migrant, says he feels relentlessly lucky to live in a country of opportunity for himself, other migrants and his children. “The Greater West and Nepean we love – we are attached to it. People are very friendly, we’ve been able to have the best life in this area,” said Dr Batta. Dr Batta says the result of this is his passion to assist migrant communities, saying his aim to help migrants assimilate has been supported from all levels of government and other organisations. “I’ve served in Penrith courts, and offered migrant domestic violence victims legal advice,” said Dr Batta.
“A part of this assistance is choosing to involve yourself in proud traditions. I have helped organise ANZAC events in Penrith,” he continued. Dr Batta is President of the local Lions Club which endeavours to provide local and foreign assistance to the less fortunate. “Our motto is to serve, we try to serve the community,” he said. “This takes many forms, one aspect is annual campaigns, for diabetes awareness or organ donation awareness.” Dr Batta’s awards from the United Indians associations and Ghandi Peace Centre, Australia, are reflective of his broad involvement in IndianAustralian and migrant causes. Choosing to embrace his roots is a role he believes helps migrants integrate and enjoy their new home. The list of said organisations is staggering, in just 19 years becoming involved heavily with Ethnic Communities Council of NSW, Technocrats’ Association of Australia (TAA), an ambassador for The Follow Your Dreams Foundation Australia and a member of NSW Ministerial Consultative Committee. Dr Batta’s heavy focus on bridging communities has seen him enjoy
relationships with local and state government, even speaking to the Premier as an invitee to the Premier’s roundtable meeting. Dr Batta says he is grateful to the region that took him, his children and his father in. He lauds the treatment his father has received, saying his spritely father has only recently needed aged care in his old age. He is proud of his son and daughter for their placements in Penrith High School. They have both since graduated and began their careers. Dr Batta reaffirms the community’s role in their quality of life, further observing that Western Sydney is undergoing a period of intense growth, saying times like this are an example of the prosperity he mentioned. He said cities like Parramatta are an example of a city which has grasped an opportunity to have a working CBD and envisions similar outcomes for cities like Blacktown and Penrith if the opportunity is handled correctly. He said he believes Penrith council has an unprecedented bi-partisanship on key issues related to the prosperity of the city which has given him confidence. “The region needs more,” said Dr Batta.
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Dr Rohitas Batta
“Let us have more jobs, declare a CBD, put the people on that front. People here are had workers,” he continued. “In the wake of an airport, corporate offices could be moved to the west.” Dr Batta said his recent recognition by the Indian-Australian community
has emboldened him to stand up and speak about topics like innovation, safety and aged care, of which he has “first-hand experience.” Conveying an urgency not to sell health short, Dr Batta said that the present is a golden opportunity to “cut across party lines,” or so he is
hopeful. At the end of the day, as Dr Batta and I talked about the region we live in, a place he has devoted his family, professional and volunteer life to, Dr Batta summed up the importance of having a go where you live; “This is our home.”
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Dr Batta and I met at Panthers in Penrith to talk about his love of Sydney’s west and his city of Penrith over a beer.
Dr Rohitas Batta was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Greg Davies. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
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localnews
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Nashos meeting Penrith National Servicemen’s Assn will be holding their AGM at Penrith RSL on Sunday 16th April 2017 at 10.00am for Free Morning tea followed by the AGM at 10.30am sharp. Then on Sunday 23rd at 2.30pm they will be holding their Anzac March and service at the Memorial Park Penrith.
Incinerator meeting MEMBER for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies, will be attending and speaking at a community forum regarding the proposal to build a Waste to Energy Facility at Eastern Creek. The meeting will be held tonight -Thursday April 13 - at the Erskine Park Community Hall at 7pm, and everyone is welcome Mrs Davies recently confirmed that the NSW Planning Minister has agreed there will be an independent assessment of the proponents claims undertaken before the project proposal goes to the Planning Assessment Commission for review.
Our cops are tops By Kerrie Davies
VIOLENCE, petty crimes, harsh crimes, domestic disputes and traffic incident tragedies are, thankfully for most of us, just a headline in the media that catches our eye, but for our women and men in uniform it is something that they face all day every day. Last week the Rotary Clubs of St Marys and Wallacia-Mulgoa Valley hosted the annual St Marys LAC Police Officer of the year award for 2016 at St Marys Leagues Club. As sponsors of this event since its inception in 2009, I represented Nepean News at the event and was once again left in awe of the job that our local police do day-in day-out to protect our community. It was great to see our local cops acknowledged and recognised for the times they have gone over and above the call of duty in order to serve the pubic and keep us safe. You could have heard a pin drop as the work of each finalist was detailed in the lead-up to the winner announcements. A speech was delivered by Cr Greg Davies, who was among the politicians
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Community Award winner Constable Jermaine Whitly with fellow award winners Constable Alexandra Smith and Senior Constable Daniel Peen
who were present which included Emma Husar MP, Tanya Davies MP and several Penrith Councillors. In his speech he received applause when he ventured into the topic of courts and punishments, stating that public perception appeared to be that our courts could do more in aiding the police in ensuring criminals were brought to justice and given fair sentences. The Community Award was taken
out by Constable Jermaine Whitly; Probationary Constable by Constable Alexandra Smith; the Peer Award went to Senior Constable Daniel Peen, and Leadership went to Sergeant Mark Harvey. Constable Whitly, upon acceptance of his award said that he was doing his dream job. “At the end of the day my job is to keep the peace and I’ll continue to do just that,” Constable Whitly said.
Heavens Above
New Lions President By Jim Devine
The Emu Plains Lions Club have just held their elections for office bearers for the 2017-18 year. The newly elected President is Alan Cooper, replacing Ian West, a member for 17 years and who has presided over the Club for the last three years. Past president Ian West, who stood down, is recuperating at home following his second knee replacement operation, but sent his congratulations to Alan and the other two ‘returned’ officers. Alan thanked Ian for his direction and unwavering support for the local community and associated charities. ‘We are facing a situation that a lot of service clubs face; diminishing memberships and reducing donations or funds contributed,” he said. “Lions have been around for 100 years internationally and 70 years in Australia and the current membership work hard to ensure that Lions will continue long into the future.” Secretary, Sue Hunt and Treasurer, Dave Markham were re-elected. Anybody interested in joining Lions and making a positive contribution to the local community and charities, should contact Sue Hunt on 4735 7789 or 0409 393 711 or jacknsue@ bigpond.com.au
with Reverend Ross Hutchison
What Floats Your Boat? From the get set, your and and my life’s journey began with a smile. A smile from your Dad and a smile from your Mum! Then whacko!!
17 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
e n t e r t a i n m e n t
The spark happened that ignited the beginning of what became you! That’s a miracle! You were born and that’s another miracle! You were born with everything that is unique to you. Every part of you is a brand new life. Created with unique and special gifts ... These gifts are your’s and yours alone.
Outgoing President, Ian West (left) and newly elected President, Alan Cooper (right).
Now the excitement begins, because we get to work with these dazzling talents! As I quote in my book, “talent is only the beginning!” From my spiritual point of view...These gifts are given to us by The Creator Of All That Is Given so that we may return them gift-wrapped, fully used, expanded and exploited to the Joy Of Life and for the benefit of all mankind!!!
The Emu Plains Club is holding an Easter raffle on Saturday 15 April at the Lennox Village, Gt Western Highway, Emu Plains, where you can obtain more information on membership and how you may become involved.
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e n t e r t a i n m e n t
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An hysterical Australian play opens soon, don’t miss out on seeing this great production! Lewis is a young Sydney amateur theater director at his first experience: he is offered a job with a Governmental program for the rehabilitation of mentally ill patients in a Sydney institution for mentally ill. His project is overrun by one of the patients Roy who wants to put on stage Cosi Fan Tutte (Mozart). None of the patients in the cast can sing and none of them knows Italian which is the language of the libretto. Through a lot of difficulties Lewis and his cast develop a deep understanding. The play smartly adapted for the unusual cast is finally produced: lots of unforeseen situations solved ‘a la crazy way ‘but indeed brilliantly. Ticket price is $25 or $20 Concession. call 47355422 John Lees Centre 15 Evan Street, Penrith.
By Kerrie Davies
The legendary Elvis Presley has been celebrated worldwide - he was one of the biggest and most important stars of the 20th Century pop culture. A cultural icon who was often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll.” Now direct from the U.S comes the ultimate debut Australian Concert Tour of “Elvis - An American Trilogy” - the complete story that takes three of the World’s leading Elvis Tribute artists starring in a spectacular live concert production that takes you on a journey through the music of the “The King” in the history of entertainment. The three stages in the success of “ELVIS - The King” stars Vic Trevino Jnr, who embodies the Rockabilly Sound of the young Elvis; Gino Monopoli recreates the sophisticated sound of the Elvis movie years with tracks from iconic films “GI BLues”, “Kid Gallahad”, “Speedway” and many more. He is magnificent as he recreates the 1968 comeback TV Special. Steve Michaels channels Elvis in the famous White Eagle jumpsuit. He recreates the seventies with “An American Trilogy” featuring the moves, the songs and the nuances that made Elvis the most recognisable figure in the History of World Music. Gino Monopoli spoke with me last week about the tour, which is heading to our neck of the woods later this month. “The show is rolling really strong, it has exceded our expectations,” Gino said. “The fans have really embraced and supported the show. It is great to see so many in the audiences singing along, they know every note!” Gino said the cast was thoroughly enjoying their time in Australia and were looking forward to performing at the the Evan Theatre at Panthers on April 29.
“ This is a fantastic and vast country, full of diverse people and happy smiles,” he said. Don’t miss the show at Panther on Saturday, April 29. Call 4720 5555.
Another spin on the turn table
SUDOKU: EASY
Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Elvis: An American Trilogy featuring three great performers
“Cosi” funny local play
Madonna - Madonna By Keegan Thomson
SOLUTION: 30th March
INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates
In the winter of 1983 the world was introduced to a one woman tour-deforce who would single handedly go on to inspire hundreds of musicians, artists, fashionistas and actors for decades to come. On July 27, 1983, New York performer Madonna Louise Ciccone released her self titled debut album, Madonna. Already a well known name in the New York dance clubs, Madonna was able to cut herself a little piece of the pop music pie after her hit songs Holiday and Lucky Star landed at number one on the US dance music charts. The first track to launching the album into the stratosphere of pop culture history is the track Lucky Star. Opening with a heavy dance pop and disco vibe the repetitive, hooky chorus puts everyone in a good mood from the get go. Borderline captures the raw appeal of Madonna’s skills as a pop musician. Lyrically she’s singing about the struggles of a relationship that is pushing her to the limits. Musically the song is pure pop with a punky undertone. Taking a turn into the dark side Madonna dips her feet into rock-pop with her fast
paced dance floor jammer, Burning Up. With shredding guitars, playful piano chords and handclap drums the song hints at the type of music Madonna would go on to produce in the years to come. From the get go Madonna knew the kind of artist she wanted to be. She always wanted to be a star. Her hard work paid off and now she is one of the most influential pop stars ever. Today it is hard to tune into a radio station or watch a music video without finding some version of imitation or Modonna-esque trope present. She is and forever will be one of the most original pop musicians and her debut album is the start of her trajectory.
Top five things to do with kids these school holidays TOP FIVE LOW-COST & FREE EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Head to the Joan for a very special production of the 1899 Australian classic Dot and the Kangaroo from April 12-13. Ticket available now.
The school holidays are underway and parents or carers needing some inspiration and ideas to keep the kids busy should look no further than Penrith. There are lots of great free or lowcost events and activities for kids and families happening across Penrith throughout the April school holidays. “As a parent myself, I know how stressful and expensive it can be trying to occupy kids during the school holidays. So to make things easy, we’ve compiled our top five list of lowcost and free activities for kids to do in Penrith,” Penrith Mayor John Thain said. “From princess and pirate cruises along the Nepean River to art workshops and science shows, there’s
Penrith Regional Gallery is inviting kids to have fun with colour, lines, shapes and patterns in their holiday workshops.
Penrith Library has an exciting program of shows and workshops with something to suit kids of all ages and interests.
something to interest and entertain kids of all ages in Penrith these school holidays. “Penrith is also home to many worldclass attractions so if you’re travelling from out of the area and you want to make the most of your time here, you can plan your trip and research the area at visitpenrith.com.au,” Cr Thain said.
1. Princess and Pirate School Holiday Cruises Jump on board the Nepean Belle for their Princess and Pirate School Holiday Cruises on Wednesday 12 April 10-11.30am or Thursday 20 April 10-11.30am. For just $19, children aged 3–12yrs can dress up as a pirate or princess and cruise along the Nepean River playing fun games and perhaps even winning a prize. There will be party food and drinks for the kids, and adults can indulge in Devonshire Tea for just $25. 2. Workshops and Shows Penrith Library has an exciting program of shows and workshops. See a unique combination of dance and magic at the Dance Magic Show or introduce them to the wonderful world of mime at the Big Bag Show. There’s also workshops in embroidery, electronics and illustrations.Penrith Regional Gallery has creative workshops from 17 – 21 April giving kids the chance to have fun with colour, lines, shapes and patterns. 3. Brunch with a Ranger Join a National Parks & Wildlife Service Discovery Ranger on Tuesday 18 April from 10.30am-12.30pm for a tour through Agnes Banks Nature Reserve, a pristine and colourful wildflower reserve. A brunch of croissants, tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be supplied. Suitable for children 6 and over, and their families. Bookings essential. Adult $5 per person. Child $2 per person. 4. Beauty & the Beast in the park The remake of Beauty & the Beast may be breaking box office records around the globe, but it’s the Acting Factory’s production of this Disney classic that has everyone in Penrith excited. Pack a picnic, bring a rug and enjoy this special event by the river. Production runs from April 20-23, 11am and 1.30pm. Entry by donation. 5. Dot and the Kangaroo at The Joan Head to The Joan for this very special retelling of the 1899 Australian classic Dot and the Kangaroo from April 12-13. This theatre performance is for children aged 4-8 years and combines physical theatre, interactive digital technology and storytelling. Tickets on sale now, Adult $25, Child $20, Family $80.
19 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
e n t e r t a i n m e n t
Your chance to win a double pass VIP upgrade Purchase 2 or more General Admission or Golden Circle tickets before April 20 for your chance to WIN a double pass VIP upgrade Enter the promo code: VIPVIP
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ANZAC DAY Tuesday April 25 2 Up in JA Room 12-5pm
BACKLASH from 3pm
20th Anniversary Gaels Club
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Bistro Open for Lunch & Dinner
FREE ENTERTAINMENT
Saturday 15 APRIL - 8PM STEPPIN OUT
FRIDAY 21 APRIL - 8PM SKYZ THE LIMIT
Saturday 22 APRIL - 7PM LENNY DUFF
FRIDAY 28 APRIL - 8PM JACK THOMSON TWINS
Saturday 29 APRIL - 7PM SHAYLEE WILDE
SCREWS BEING TURNED ON INVESTOR LENDING With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker
The property prices in Sydney and Melbourne just keep on escalating with the average Sydney price increasing by 6.1 percent in the December quarter and 70 percent over the last 5 years to December 2016. Demand continues to remain strongly driven by low interest rates, growing population from immigration, tax incentives for investors and a desire for Asian nationals to park their wealth into the safer assets outside their own country so they can’t be confiscated by their governments. Normally when property prices start to run like this, the Reserve Bank increases official interest rates which reduces demand. However, the economy is not strong enough to handle any increased rates as demand for general goods and services will reduce and affect the already fragile confidence and economy. Now there is mounting pressure from the community and some politicians to reduce the advantage
that property investors have enjoyed since the 1980’s. These advantages include the ability to claim property losses against the taxable income, and the ability to borrow more from lenders as they can use the rental income received to increase their overall income. There is also some talk about removing the 50 percent reduction to capital gains tax on net profits that can be claimed if the property is held over 12 months. The Liberals and National parties are resisting making any changes to these benefits but the other parties have announced that they will make changes if Labor takes over in Canberra at the next election. In an effort to reduce demand from investors and reduce owner occupiers (especially first home buyers) being squeezed out of the market, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRAgovernment authority who regulates the banking industry) has told lenders to cap and reduce lending to investors in two major ways. Firstly they told them to limit the
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increase in investment lending to 10 per growth of their lending book. This measure has seen some lenders stop lending to investors all together and other lenders put restrictions in place in regards to their lending policies and increasing interest rates to investors. For example, The CBA won’t accept applications to refinance investment loans unless there are also owner occupied loans being refinanced as well. Last week, APRA also announced that they are concerned about the high and escalating number of loans (37 percent of all home loans) that are written with interest only repayments. These loans mean that the principal is not being reduced and are typically used by investors to maximise their cash flow so they can buy another investment property. APRA want this type of lending reduced to 30 percent of total lending. History shows that when the cost of finance increases and the access to finance becomes more difficult, then demand for property decreases. It is then hoped that property prices stop increasing so owner occupiers have
a more level playing field at auctions or in price negotiations and less competition from investors. The Reserve Bank is also worried about the increasing amount of consumer debt and the negative effects on confidence and the economy in general if property prices in Sydney and/or Melbourne decline. If property prices decline people usually reduce their spending. This will mean less demand for goods and services which will further reduce business confidence which has been a little shaky for the last few years. The federal government is trying to increase business confidence by reducing company taxes. They hope this will stimulate companies to employ more people and increase hours worked. Wages in Australia are only increasing by around 1.2 percent which is lower than inflation and the lowest growth in history as well. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.
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CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Rehearse (8) 5 Relating to the iris of the eye (6) 9 Attacks (8) 10 Be against (6) 12 Draws through a straw (5) 13 Blimps (9) 14 Dried grape (6) 16 Cigar (7) 19 Seeing (7) 21 A style of architecture (6) 23 Pasta (9) 25 A mendicant preacher (5) 26 Stableboy (6) 27 Thoroughly soak (8) 28 Faery (6) 29 Hated (8)
DOWN 1 Kudos (6) 2 Companion (9) 3 Guided journeys (5) 4 A native member of a state (7) 6 Be a delegate for (9) 7 Hindu loincloth (5) 8 Distilled wood tar (8) 11 Heroic (4) 15 Most meager (9) 17 Not reproductions (9) 18 Eludings (8) 20 Fence door (4) 21 A contorted facial expression (7) 22 Pal (6) 24 Plays a role (5) 25 An unpleasant woman (5)
solution 30/3/17
21 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
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nepeanhistory
24 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
St Marys diggers of ANZAC
W
ar Clouds over Europe just over 100 years ago were responsible for the awakening of our small country and the questioning of our ties to the “mother country”. Life and working conditions in Australia in the early 1900’s was harsh, dangerous and unsanitary. However, Australia had a reputation throughout the late 1800’s as the ‘working man’s paradise’ mainly because of the adoption of the eight-hour day and other benefits. For the manual labourer of Australia usually made up of the working class, work was tough and uncomfortable with low pay and long hours. Despite these conditions the workers were hesitant to complain for fear of being dismissed from their job and unable to provide for their families. The middle class were usually white-collar or professional workers who undertook less physical work and received a higher pay. Many manual labourers in Australia worked in the rural sector, of which many were sheep shearers who had to shear 100 sheep just to earn £1, and if their work was not to the satisfaction of their employer the shearer’s wages were withheld. The shearers also had to endure unsanitary and vermin infested conditions in the shearing sheds and the accommodation that was provided for them. So it was on the 30th July, 1914 when a cablegram came from the British Government to the Government of Australia informing that there was an imminent danger of war. Almost every Australian at that time knew of a quarrel between Austria and Serbia with the intervention of Germany, but few realized that the Emperor and the German Government were deliberately employing dangerous war rhetoric with Great Britain and that it was possible that Britain might be dragged into any international struggle. In Australia it was thought that if Great Britain was involved, then what was the position of those British colonies that inhabited lands far from the “old world” and were loosely bound together under the name of the British Empire? Of the people who had sprung from “British stock” only the United States of America had left the Empire and grown to maturity as an independent nation. The other offshoots like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Newfoundland were still adolescent. The world regarded them and their motherland as one community. Foreign nations had begun to know something of several British colonies as producers of raw materials and of new ideas but their population was still in its infancy and was not yet a factor in international politics. Although the British Dominions had reached the stage where they were fast developing foreign relations, the British Government still undertook the conduct of their dealings with other countries. Here in Australia we were apprehensive that we
would be bound to provide armed forces other than those we individually chose to provide, or would commit to support a policy that we might not individually approve of. All of the “British” colonies at that time had established within their own coasts, some organization for home defense as well as voluntary civilian military service. Our St Mary’s volunteers who enlisted in August 1914 sought excitement from their daily drudge of low paid or no paid work. They would be getting paid to fight for their country and besides “it will all be over before Christmas” was the sentiment at that time. They were going to fight for their love ones and their homeland but they soon found out that they were enlisting under the “British” war machine and most were not happy. Of course we know that after the incompetence of the British War Cabinet and the disastrous Gallipoli campaign, the Australian and New Zealand volunteers were finally incorporated under their own Government and from that time were known as the “Diggers” of ANZAC. The 1st Battalion was the first infantry unit recruited for the Australian Imperial Forces in New South Wales during the First World War. The battalion was raised within a fortnight of the declaration of war in August 1914 and embarked just two months later. After a brief stop in Albany, Western Australia, the battalion proceeded to Egypt arriving on 2nd December. The battalion took part in the ANZAC landing on 25 April 1915 as part of the second and third waves, and served there until the evacuation in December. Ongoing research has so far produced thirteen volunteers who enlisted from St Marys between August and December 1914. Five were killed or died of wounds or disease at Gallipoli, three were killed in France and never returned to their family. Five of those remaining St Mary’s volunteers had to suffer through Gallipoli and the Western Front before they came home, mostly broken men. The suffering of those folks at home would have been unimaginable. No one could understand the suffering of those men who on trying to enlist, were rejected by the military because of height, weight, health or age and who received a “white feather” (resembling cowardice) from female members of the districts families whose husbands, sons or lovers had enlisted and were called up to fight. So on the 25th April (ANZAC day) spare a thought for those volunteers of over 100 years ago, who fought and gave their life for an “adventure” that turned out to be anything but! Lest we Forget. Source: Australian War Memorial & National Archives and research from: Lyn Forde, Vice-President of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
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Whare commits long-term future to Penrith By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn
Penrith’s impressive retention drive has continued with the resigning of Dean Whare until the end of the 2022 season. The five-year deal ends speculation that Whare would link up with either former club, Manly or join former coach Ivan Cleary at his new club, the Wests Tigers. The speculation was fuelled in part by suggestions that the club’s aggressive retention program that has seen all but a handful of players in its top 25 squad retained, would see Whare squeezed out by the salary cap. But the Kiwi international who admits he was surprised by the length of the deal, says he’s grateful for the opportunity to be a part of what he sees as an exciting future at the foot of the mountains. “I was very surprised by the length of the deal but I’m very grateful,” Whare told Nepean News. “But Penrith have a lot of faith in me and see me in their future despite having a lot of young guys coming through the ranks. “With the group of players that we
Penrith’s Dean Whare will be at the club until the end of 2022. Photo: 77 Media.
have, I’m excited about the direction we’re heading as a club.” What makes this deal even more special is the commitment shown by the club despite the fact that Whare is just six games back from an injuryplagued two seasons. But the centre, who has played 70 NRL games to date for Penrith, was always confident that provided he played some NRL games early on, his future at the Panthers would be resolved. “I had to get a few first grade games
under my belt first,” Whare said. “I knew that if I played well I would get a contract somewhere but Penrith was the only club (for me). “It’s like home to me so it was an easy decision to re-sign and I am just happy to secure my future now.” Panthers Executive General Manager Rugby League Phil Gould AM says the deal reflects the club’s gratitude for Whare signing with Penrith at a time his career was about to take off at Manly. “Words cannot describe how highly I regard Dean Whare both as a person and a player,” Gould said. “I have a long-standing gratitude towards Dean for agreeing to trust us with his career when he joined us from Manly in 2013. “We are extremely grateful for the service he has given our club since the day he arrived and he is a very important part of our club going forward.” The new deal means that Whare will be 32 when the new deal ends at the end of 2022. But any talk this will be Whare’s last contract are premature, with the centre stating that the injuries that has restricted him to just 14 games over the past two seasons, maybe a blessing in disguise as it may allow him to play
on for a couple more years thereafter. “I will be 32 when this contract is up and that’s when most players retire,” Whare said. “But if I’m playing well and feeling good you never know, there could be a couple more years after that in me. “Even though I’ve been injured and it wasn’t great at the time, in hindsight I think it’s also been good for me. “Having the year off last year has freshened me up and playing first grade again I feel like a junior.” With his long-term future now secured Whare says provided he can maintain his spot in his preferred right-centre position for the Panthers, his next goal is to represent New Zealand in this year’s World Cup and expand on his 15 test career. “Making that Kiwi team now, that’s a big focus for me,” Whare confirmed. “I missed out last year through injury and watching the boys play. “I cheered for them but I was still spewing I wasn’t out there with them. “At the moment playing consistently is my main goal and I’ve got my opportunity to play in the centres now. “Hopefully I can stay there if I play consistently well and if I do well for Panthers then hopefully I will make that New Zealand World Cup squad.”
25 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
Dal and Mal realise life-long NRL dream By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn
The undoubted silverlining to what was largely a bad news week at the foot of the mountains was the NRL debut afforded to Malakai Watene-Zelezniak ,the older brother of Dallin, in last Friday night’s clash with South Sydney at Pepper Stadium. With Dallin and Malakai finally getting their opportunity to play together in the NRL, the pair became first pair of brothers to represent Penrith since Tony and Frank Puletua did so in Round 26, 2006 and just the seventh set of brothers to do so in the club’s fifty-one season history. While Dallin has been destined for a prosperous NRL career, having already played 56 NRL games and two tests for New Zealand, since debuting as an 18-year old in 2014, it’s been a very different story for his 25-year old brother. Having come out of the Holden Cup in 2011, Malakai’s NRL dreams not only appeared over when he wasn’t wanted by the Panthers but was almost lost to the sport forever when he made the switch to play rugby union. But in a twist of fate, constant nagging from his younger brother and NSW Cup coach Garth Brennan, rekindled the rugby league spark in Malakai, just as he looked set to hang up the boots to focus on his career as a prison officer, despite enjoying his time in rugby where he played for Penrith, Eastern Suburbs and even for
Malakai Watene-Zelezniak didn’t let anyone down in his NRL debut. Photo: 77 Media
NSW Country Eagles in the National Rugby Championships. “I was looking at hanging up the boots again trying to settle into another career (as a prison officer) to provide some security for my young family,” Malakai told Nepean News. “But Dal was the one pushing me, saying no don’t do it (retire). “I thought hard about it for two weeks but he was pretty persuasive so I ended up coming back. “I enjoyed my time in rugby but coming back in my first game of league I was surprise how quickly it
all came back to me. “Running hard, tackling hard. I had a big smile on my face after my first game back. “I’m grateful Brenno (Garth Brennan) gave me that opportunity to come back into Cup and develop as a better player. Despite the 21-20 loss, the smiles on the brothers couldn’t be wiped away, with Dallin describing it as “my most treasured moment at this point of my NRL career.” For Malakai, his debut undoubtedly shows dreams can come true through
Coach’s Corner
hard work and perseverance. But despite returning to the Intrust Super Premiership as Matt Moylan, Peta Hiku and Waqa Blake return for the must-win clash with Cronulla, the winger says any further opportunities to play in the NRL for Penrith will be a bonus. “That’s my number one item on my bucket list and to achieve it with my brother, there’s just no words to describe it,” Malakai declared. “There’s nothing else on the bucket list that will top that. It was my dream that came true. “Just to be able to play tonight and have the opportunity as a (Penrith) junior to put on the Panther jersey is a dream come true and anything else after this is just a bonus.” The debut also capped a big week for Dallin, who was only too happy to re-commit his future with the club for another three years, having previously signed one-year deals in the past as he mulled over his personal future and whether he was happy to play on the wing instead of his preferred fullback position. “I’m very happy that I will be at the club for another three years,” Dallin said. “They’ve been good to me and I’m very lucky and privileged to be resigned.” “Previously when I re-signed with the club, I was still tossing up whether I was going on my mission or stay and play football and the position I was playing too. “But I’m married now and ready to start a family so having that security is important.”
Brock Shepperd Sydney Roosters NYC Development Squad - Head Coach Kaizen Sports Performance Rugby League Academy - Head Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast | b.shepperd@hotmail.com
How Can I Incorporate Fitness Into My Training Sessions? Junior coaching programs should never include traditional fitness or conditioning drills. Fitness should never take precedence over the development of skill and the enjoyment of athletes at the junior level. Fitness can easily be implemented into your coaching sessions through adopting the ‘less talk more action’ approach from a coaching perspective, get the players moving as much as possible for as long as possible. Within a one hour training session athletes should be moving for a minimum of 50 minutes. Fitness will be achieved during the drills and games which you have set up to be competitive, fun and challenging within each session. The best part of having games and drills achieve your fitness outcomes is that the athletes do not associate fitness with any specific aspect of your training sessions which maximises their enjoyment. It should also eliminate the ‘oh no, not this again’ comment which can become all too common from players!
Coaches who have players repetitively run laps or sprints to achieve fitness goals in my opinion are wasting and burning critical time which would be much better spent developing skills and teaching the fundamentals of their specific sport. Junior athletes sign up to learn, have fun and play! So create an environment which allows them to do so. For the coaches doubting this approach… Firstly when do players ever run a lap during a game? When do players ever run in a straight line for any more than 10-20 metres during a game? The answer is rarely if ever. This type of fitness training does not directly relate or improve the skill of Rugby League, Netball, Soccer, Rugby or AFL players. No wonder the players are saying ‘oh no, not this again’! As a coach if a drill or game I am running does not directly flow into an improvement or development of a skill or tactic for my players when transferred onto the field on game day then I must ask myself: What is
the benefit of me running this drill or playing that game within my training session? We must always be working on the process of building the skills of our players which will in turn over time improve the performance of our teams. The best type of fitness junior athletes can get is within live games. Encourage players to get to training early and allow them to create their own games and own rules. There will be plenty of time for your players to focus on fitness and conditioning once the game becomes serious as young adults. But as coaches if we are not providing a fun, engaging and challenging environment the players will not stay within the game long enough to even get that chance. The main priority as a junior coach should be to retain our players within each of our individual sports through fostering an environment of learning through fun, challenging and engaging coaching programs.
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Repeat Sets with Stew Moses
@TheRiffMarn
HOOK’S WAY OR THE HIGHWAY – SHORT TERM PAIN FOR LONG TERM GAIN? The decision by coach Anthony Griffin to drop Matt Moylan, Peta Hiku and Waqa Blake from last Friday night’s clash with Souths for breach of team protocol following their 28-6 loss to Melbourne the previous Saturday, looked to be a very gutsy call indeed. The Panthers were already reeling from the news that Sam McKendry had been ruled out for the season, while Tyrone Peachey’s fractured ribs suffered against the Storm meant he joined the likes of Josh Mansour, Bryce Cartwright, James FisherHarris and Tim Browne on the side-lines. Nonetheless going into the game, most fans seemed to be on Griffin’s side citing that such action can only strengthen the team’s culture, despite fielding a team well down on experience compared to their opponents. However the mood quickly changed after the Panthers went down by a point in the last minute of play to slump to 12th position with just two wins to their name after six rounds, with fans and sections of the media alike questioning whether it was the right decision given the desperate need for points. But Griffin at the post-match press conference refused to comment and instead talked about the pride he felt about the team’s ability to stay in the contest despite the loss. “I don’t want to talk about that. We had a team out there tonight representing our club that made the club proud,” Griffin declared. “The game slipped away from us a couple of times, the first twenty minutes and the middle twenty minutes of the second half especially. “We showed a tonne of character in the middle of that second half. “But unfortunately those last two three minutes the game slipped away.” Six days earlier the Panthers continued their run of outs against the Storm, having now lost 18 of the last 19 games played including all seven games played at AAMI Park.
Penrith’s Intrust Super Premiership side has slumped to fifth position, four points out of the top four after back-to-back losses at St Marys Stadium against Canterbury and Newcastle. The loss to Newcastle ranks as the biggest upset of the season to date given the inclusion of Moylan, Hiku, Blake and Viliame Kikau. The score could have been anything as the Panthers dominated proceedings in the opening half hour to lead 16-4. But errors coupled with some resolute Knights defence saw Newcastle storm home to deservedly win 26-20. The look on the stand-in skipper’s face says it all. Photo: 77 Media.
While a 28-6 score-line may have flattered the error-riddled Storm, it highlighted how resolute the home side‘s defence was, with the Panthers only scoring six points despite dominating possession. However Griffin was more concerned his team didn’t try to grind out a low-scoring result and was equally disappointed by the ease in which Penrith conceded points. “I thought we had some periods where we built pressure but we did a few things wrong in attack,” Griffin lamented. “Even though we didn’t get points on the scoreboard we learned that our attack created enough chances. “We dropped the ball twice over the line and had one disallowed. “To their credit they were there (in numbers) a few times as we were going over the line. “In a game like this against Melbourne you’ve got to have a 10-8 or a 12-10 mind-set and grind out the game. “But the thing that disappointed me the most was how easy they got their points.”
David Tangata-Toa’s Holden Cup side has been the undoubted bright spark over the past fortnight showing plenty of skill and courage to surge to the top of the table on the back of a fivegame winning streak. The Panthers defeated Melbourne 36-20 on the Sunshine Coast, before storming back from an 18-0 halftime deficit and 24-6 during the second half to snatch a late 28-24 win over South Sydney. After an erroneous team-list on NRL.com was the catalyst for incorrect media reports suggesting Moylan had quit as captain, Penrith’s 21-man squad (arguably their strongest of the season to date) for Sunday’s clash with defending premiers Cronulla, is in numeric order as follows: Moylan (C), Blake, Whare, Peachey, D WateneZelezniak, Martin, Cleary, Tamou, Wallace, Campbell-Gillard, Yeo, Fisher-Harris, Merrin. Interchange: Harawira-Naera, Latu, Kikau, Akauola, Leota, Browne, Hiku, B Cartwright. It’s a must-win clash for a side that came into 2017 with top-four aspirations, given the Panthers then face tough away games against Parramatta and Brisbane before the representative weekend. See you at the game. #PantherPride
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60 Lauren Fitzpatrick - Penrith Valley Prestige Cleaning - 0415 166 306
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52 Tricia Hitchen - Deputy Mayor - 0417 365 313
56 John Thain - Penrith City Mayor - 0411 427 812
58 Jeff WatsonBenard - Club Bratusa President, St Marys Band Club - 9623 1211 Councillor
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52 Prue Car - Memberfor Londonderry - 9833 1122
64 Victor Glanville - Vic’s Maxi Transport - 4732 2195
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Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
MG on the mark
with MARK GEYER
Footy dominating what seems to be daily headlines Moylan, Blake, and Hiku
New Tigers mentor Ivan Cleary
As always in rugby league, it seems like there has been a major ‘happening’ per day since I last wrote. The Tigers, Cooper Cronk, Des Hasler, Billy Slater, and our own Penrith Panthers have dominated headlines in the last fortnight. And there will be lots more when we next chat. The game that just keeps giving. Back closer to home Panthers honcho Anthony Griffin was forced to make his toughest decision since taking the reins at the foot of the mountains recently. Following the Melbourne Storm game two weekends ago “Hook” issued his charges a stern warning, “Head back to the hotel and stay there, no going out, you haven’t earned the right,” or words to that affect. But three players didn’t listen and were subsequently caught and dropped. Matt Moylan (captain) Waqa Blake, and Peta Hiku being the players in question. Lots have had their say on whether the coach made the right move or in fact did he over-react to three young men simply wanting to head out and let off some steam? I’m with the coach on this one. In trying to establish a culture and winning ethos within the team it has to be made clear that NO player or players are bigger than the team. Looking at his decision now near a week and a half later and it’s plain to see the dropping of the three more likely than not cost the Panthers two competition points as the mountain men went down by a miserable point against the Rabbits. But without the tough love Griffin is trying to install, its real easy for footy teams to slide right off the rails. ( Tigers being case in point). Griffin had to make a tough call on Tyrone Peachey that has seen him become our most consistent players.
Watch for Moylan, Blake, and Hiku to be amongst our best as the season moves on. And another thing.... Speaking of the Tigers, what a month they have had. Rumour and innuendo has flushed them of any positive news as story after story emerged out of their camp of the inmates running the asylum. A coach was sacked, the “big four” don’t know whether they are Martha or Arthur, then they fly to North Queensland to play against Jonathan Thurston’s Cowboys as the round’s biggest underdogs and win!! With new coach Ivan Cleary steering the ship! Talk about turmoil. The Tigers recent dramas could be made into a movie and still be called fiction such has been the never before wheelings and dealings taking place. Watching and observing like an addicted reality tv worshipper I have learnt three things. 1). The big four need to swallow their pride and join together in trying to win a comp for their supporters. 2). Attitude will always win over ability. 3) Ivan Cleary is definitely the man to once again galvanise the Tigers. Don’t touch the remote, the fun has just begun.... See you at the game.
MG (random Westie) OAM
GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses
@TheRiffMarn
WILL NRL’S MOOTED SALARY CAP RUIN PENRITH’S IMPRESSIVE RETENTION DRIVE? The Panthers have continued to go about retaining their top 25 squad for 2018 and beyond with the retention of Kiwi internationals Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (2020) and Dean Whare (2022). The re-signings means that of Penrith’s top 25, only Viliame Kikau and Sitaleki Akauola remain unsigned while fringe NRL players Corey Harawira-Naera, Malakai Watene-Zelezniak, Sione Katoa and Michael Oldfield are among several second-tier players yet to be re-signed. But reports that the NRL, who incredibly have yet to finalise the salary cap for 2018, has reportedly proposed a base salary cap of $8.3 million are set to have ramifications for all clubs who have budgeted for $9-10 million dollars. All clubs are likely to have no option but offload players, who in turn face an uncertain future as other clubs won’t have the cap space to sign them. Although Penrith is understood to have budgeted at the lower end of the scale, there may still be a need to offload two, possibly three players should the NRL not improve its offer. One player who could leave despite being under contract until the end of 2018 is Dylan Edwards, who will no doubt be in the sights of newly appointed Wests Tigers coach, Ivan Cleary should James Tedesco leave the Tigers for another club. Matt Moylan is set to remain at fullback and the retention of Whare and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak ensures competition for spots in the outside backs continues, meaning Edwards may have to consider opportunities elsewhere should he want a regular first grade spot. Another player with a clouded future with the club is Peta Hiku. Since his return from a season-ending knee injury in 2016 and before being demoted to the Intrust Super Premiership, Hiku has only started once and has otherwise been restricted to 20-30 minute appearances coming off the bench. Despite being under contract until the end of 2018, there are suggestions that Hiku is being shopped around to other clubs. One player who has left the club in recent weeks is lower grades hooker-half, Zach Dockar-Clay, who has linked up with Panthers legend, Tim Sheens at
Will the salary cap force Corey HarawiraNaera out of the club? Photo: 77 Media
UK Championship club, Hull KR. Dockar-Clay has largely languished in the Ron Massey Cup in 2017 after the club signed Mitch Rein and Darren Nicholls. Hence it’s no surprise to see the club’s 2016 ISP Player of the Year released to join ex-Panthers Maurice Blair, Andrew Heffernan, Kieran Moss, Mitch Clark and Jake-Butler Fleming at Hull KR. The move has already paid dividends with Dockar-Clay coming off the bench, scoring a try and playing an instrumental role in Hull KR’s comefrom-behind win over Swinton last weekend. Spare a thought for Jed Cartwright who has been one of Penrith’s best in the Intrust Super Premiership this season. Not only did the back-rower cop a one week’s suspension for a high tackle in Penrith’s loss to Canterbury, but a serious back injury curtailed a possible NRL debut in any event, and is set to keep him sidelined for the next few months. Penrith’s injuries, suspensions and demotions means that after six rounds the club has already used 25 players with only the Gold Coast (27) having used more, which in part explains the stuttering start to the season given the lack of week-to-week continuity. Of more concern has been the fan reactions on social media to the performances of key forwards, Trent Merrin and James Tamou, who claim the pair don’t provide enough bang for their buck. The criticisms are by enlarge, over the top and unwarranted. But with only nine players having played every game thus far, six of them being forwards including Merrin and Tamou plus Isaah Yeo,
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Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Peter Wallace and Leilani Latu, Nepean News decided to compare their opening 2017 v 2016 performances – with surprising results. The results show that between them, Merrin and Tamou are struggling albeit slightly in the areas of metres gained, tackle breaks, linebreaks, errors and penalties conceded. But are they not alone. Latu and Campbell-Gillard have both struggled to make the same impact with ball in hand as well. Latu’s attacking stats are especially down, which is not surprising given the absence of Bryce Cartwright, whom Latu shares a strong partnership with but along with CampbellGillard, has improved defensively. The big improver is Isaah Yeo, who has increased average metres from 84m per game to 112m as well as making more offloads (11 v 4) whilst halving both errors and penalties conceded. Despite the team’s indifferent start to the season on the field, the second Members council meeting confirmed that the Panthers continue to enjoy plenty of off-field success. Penrith is placed seventh amongst the NRL clubs for total members, which are up on this time last year (16,497 v 15,883). In addition, 2017 membership revenue targets having already been met, indicating record levels of fans converting to full-season memberships. And with a Bathurst membership package set to be released in coming weeks, Panthers staffers are confident that the club will reach at least 18,000 members in 2017. Look for the club to release an indigenous jersey ahead of Penrith’s Round Ten home game against the NZ Warriors. Designed by club staffer and former player Glenn Liddiard, the jersey is sure to be well received by fans. Last Friday’s clash set a new attendance record between the two clubs at Pepper Stadium, when 15,535 fans attended, breaking the 2003 record of 15,251. See you at the game. #PantherPride
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31 Nepean News 13 April 2017 Issue 198
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Thursday, 13 April 2017
sport
Local boxing champ headed for China By Conner Lowe
Arlene Blencowe from Jamisontown started her career as an amateur boxer in 2010. She was striving for a place on the Australian Olympics team but was unsuccessful during selection for the 2012 London games. This led to Arlene’s decision to turn professional in 2012 and strive for more success. “The situation at the time was hard because I had two young kids and as a single mother and amateur boxer I was travelling a lot for fights and fight camps. So when I didn’t make the Olympics team I had to either wait for the next commonwealth games or Olympics or to turn professional which was the best decision at the time,” she said. The following year was Arlene’s pivotal year where she won two world titles in boxing. Arlene described her mental state going into her first world title fight and her emotions after winning the
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world title. “Well I wasn’t originally meant to fight, but there was an injury to the contender and she had to pull out and I took on the fight with only a week until it was scheduled,” Arlene said. “So I had to have a weight cut to make the weight division for the fight and although I train all year round, I hadn’t had my usual preparation before a fight. “I went into the fight as the underdog, but mentally I had the mindset that I wouldn’t lose and that helped me to win all 10 rounds of the fight and to lift my first world title
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and I was so relieved and happy I had won,” she said. During January in 2013 Arlene’s trainer advised her that she should mix her boxing training up with wrestling and Jiu Jitsu training. In April that year Arlene had her first MMA fight after only months of training. “It was a weird feeling, I had never stepped into a cage to fight before so when the gate was looked I had so many different emotions run through my body,” she said. “In the first year of fighting in MMA I lost four fights, since then
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I have only lost two fights to the number 2 and 3 in the world. If I could duplicate the mindset I had when I first won my world title in boxing, I have no doubt I would also be a world champion in the MMA as well,” she said. Arlene spoke about what she still wants to achieve in both boxing and MMA fighting and her progression so far as a fighter. “I still want to go back to boxing and go down in history as the first ever female in the world to hold a world title in both boxing and MMA. “My career so far has been a valuable learning experience for myself, I take a lot of pride out of my wins but also the losses too because it helps me learn and progress and always get better,” she said. Arlene has her debut fight in the Australian Fighting Championships in China on Saturday 15th of April against Rhiannon Thompson. Arlene will hope to continue to display her strength in the cage and show that she can be the number one female MMA fighter in Australia.
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