Nepean News 13th September 2018

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ISSUE 235

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TIME TO FIRE AGAINST THE SHIRE

They’ve weathered the Storm. Fought back against the Warriors. But can “Mr September”, James Maloney and his Panthers overcome not one but two hoodoos this Friday night at Allianz Stadium? Not only have the Panthers not won consecutive finals in their last five finals campaigns but will need to defeat bitter rivals, Cronulla for just the second time in ten games, to set up a preliminary finals clash away in Melbourne. As finals fever begins to grip Pantherland, the Nepean News has got your footy fix covered. Credit: NRL Photos.

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Carolyn’s Guide to Retirement Living in Western Sydney Meet Carolyn, an expert with years of experience in the retirement living sector. Here she continues her column sharing insights and answers to the frequently asked questions people have about living in a retirement village.

Can visitors stay over if I move to a village?

Yes, it is your home, so friends and family are most welcome to stay. Of course, other residents appreciate the fact that they know who their neighbours are, so for extended stays, residents need to talk to their village manager and let them know who is staying and for how long. For example, if your visitor is staying more than 30 days in a row, or for several months over a year, that will need to be documented and discussed with your village manager.

Learn more about the benefits of retirement living and the exciting planned development of an over 55’s village to the community of Jordan Springs by calling Carolyn on 0430 189 447 or visit jordanspringsretirement.com. You can be amongst the first to receive VIP updates on the new development, home designs and how to buy.

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Contact: (02) 9673 1009

www.newhorizonschurch.org.au

T

he 2018 Day of Peace will be held on Saturday 22 September from 10am – 2pm at the Mondo greenspace (between Westfield and the Joan).

It will be a day of entertainment and celebration, with wonderful and unique performances including spoken word poetry recited by a young poet from Western Sydney, live music and activities including henna tattoos and a play area for young children.

Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain said the Day of Peace promotes respect across the community.

“This event is designed to encourage understanding, cooperation and good relations between organisations and people of different faiths

within the Penrith community,” Cr Thain said.

“It also acknowledges something that binds us together – all people, and all religions share a common desire for peace, security and dignity,” he said.

The Day of Peace is an initiative of Council’s Penrith Multifaith Peace Group, and celebrates the United Nations’ International Day of Peace. The 2018 theme is ‘The Right to Peace’.

Council’s Penrith Multifaith Peace Group was established in 2016 and includes representatives from over 20 churches, faiths and organisations from the local Penrith area.

More information is available at: penrithcity. nsw.gov.au/DayofPeace2018

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

Penrith’s Day of Peace celebration

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys 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

(Dedications, Wedding or Funerals by appointment) 48 Luttrell St Glenmore Park P: 02 47331133 W: www.salvos.org.au/penrith E: salvospenrith@gmail.com

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

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203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

HE St Clair community, which I am part of, suffered a great loss when family doctor, Dr Elizabeth Torrance, or “Dr T” as she was affectionately known, lost her life to brain cancer.

Dr T was a brilliant and shining gem in the world of medicine; and she could have written the tutorial on bedside manner, as she touched the heart of every patient who went to visit her.

I was lucky enough to be one of those patients, as were my three children.

Not only did she give sound medical advice, but she followed up with love and concern for every patient she saw.

In our changing world full of medical centres, where few get to really know their family doctor, Dr T was the exception to the rule.

Her patient books were full to capacity, and the surgery rooms packed to the rafters on any given day, with those who felt that indeed Dr T was well worth the wait.

And not only did Dr T remember every patient’s name, she remembered what they did for work, the names of their kids, and basically any information they’d ever shared with her.

She was certainly one in a trillion.

Local residents Melissa Dykes Dunlop, Debbie Brown Meier and Dr Torrance’s nieces Natasha and Miriam floated an idea some time ago that a local park be named in honour of Dr T. That dream has now become a reality, and Mayor John Thain opened the Elizabeth Torrance Park on the corner of Feather and McIntyre Streets St Clair last week.

St Clair residents will now have a place in which to visit and reflect on the wonderful doctor, mentor and friend who played a major part in many of our lives.

RIP beautiful Dr Elizabeth Torrance, we hope you knew how loved and adored you were by an entire community.

What are the signs of pyometra?

P

yometra is a common disease in undesexed female dogs that requires major surgery. Pyometra is a serious infection of the uterus that results in the accumulation of pus within the cavity of the uterus. It is generally seen in older female cats and dogs who have not been desexed.

Pyometras can become life threatening especially if the uterus ruptures inside the body. Untreated pyometra can cause dehyration, kidney failure and eventual death from infection and toxin accumulation.

What causes a pyometra? Each time a dog has a season (generally twice a year), she undergoes hormonal changes. These changes affect the uterus and cervix and make infection more likely. Infection

is usually caused by a very common organism called E. Coli. The disease usually becomes apparent several weeks or months following heat.

What are the signs of pyometra? Pyometra is obviously only seen in females and can occur at any age but more commonly occurs in dogs over the age of 6. Early signs can be subtle and could just include increased licking around the back end or just being a bit tired and not as hungry as usual.

In the advanced stages you may notice that she drinks lots of water and sometimes you may even find a reddish-brown discharge coming from the

back end. Some dogs will have a distended abdomen and become very depressed and tired.

How is pyometra diagnosed? A good history is generally suggestive of pyometra but xrays/ ultrasound and blood tests are generally needed to confirm the diagnosis and assess how sick the dog is.

Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, the best treatment option is surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus as soon as possible. Some animals are too sick for an anaesthetic and need to be stabilised prior to surgery.

Can it be prevented? Yes! The only way to prevent this condition is by having your dog desexed. If you are not intending to breed your dog, then she should be desexed at anytime from 6 months of age. Not only does desexing prevent pyometra and cancers of the reproductive tract, but if you get your female dog desexed before her first season then this reduces the chance of breast cancer developing later in life by 90%.

If you have any questions about desexing your pet, please contact Coreen Avenue Veterinary on 4731 3055.

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

local news

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith was joined by NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian during a visit to St Nicholas of Myra Primary School to announce funding to support the expansion of their Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) services.

Stuart Ayres said St Nicholas of Myra has received a grant of $30,000 to cater for up to 59 spaces in their before and after school care service.

Ms Berejiklian said it is fantastic to announce this

increase in capacity that will benefit the families in the Penrith community.

School Principal, Anita Knezevic welcomed the funding that will go towards equipment, storage and site modification.

The NSW Government created the $20 million Before and After School Care Fund to help deliver up to 45,000 additional out of school hours care (OSHC) places.

NSW schools, local councils and not-forprofit OSHC service providers may apply

for grants under the Fund. “I am pleased to be a part of the NSW Government who understands the need for flexibility and we continue to deliver and increase the number of before and after school care places to support working parents,� added Stuart Ayres.

More information regarding the program can be found online at https://education.nsw.gov.au/ about-us/using-school-facilities/out-of-schoolhours-care/before-and-after-school-care-fund

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

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local news

By Noel Rowsell

S

outh Creek Station is not on the NSW Rail timetable yet there is a train ready in waiting twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week.

Officially opened on November 15, 1993, the station was the brain-child of local businessman Mr Paul McDonald and is situated on land owned by the St Marys RSL and Ex-Services Club.

The site is at the gateway to St Marys off the M4 Motorway and operates as a Tourist Information Office and Training Facility.

It is also the St Marys Outpost, founded by the Vietnam Veterans of Australia and providing support for current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and providing welfare and pension assistance.

The Rails and Sleepers used on site were sourced from the old ADI site at North St Marys and all authentic Railway items were restored and hand-finished.

Local vandals struck on the same night the first carriage was placed onsite but the installation of a perimeter fence and guard dog quickly curbed the early vandalism.

The first carriage became the Community carriage, to be used by Community groups and businesses for

Station View

Locomotive BHP

meetings and training (this carriage includes a central Boardroom – or Classroom).

The second carriage on site became the Community Display Carriage but it was in a shocking condition upon delivery, with age damage and vandalism.

Although the Display carriage (Mail Van) was the second carriage on-site, it would become the last to be completed, due to the extensive renovation work needed.

Two suburban double-decker carriages were then delivered to Penrith, where the particular carriage destined for South Creek received extensive restoration to the exterior, prior to it’s transfer to the Museum of Fire rail siding.

From there, it then undertook the

final transfer by road transport to South Creek.

The railway lines for the doubledecker had however been laid to Country specifications, whereas the carriage was to City specs, so quick work was needed to widen the rails at South Creek to accommodate the new carriage.

Once in place, work quickly began on the interior of the upper deck, including repairs, painting and new floor covering.

Only the best of the original seats were used in the reconfiguration of the upper deck, with tables also being placed between each pair of seats so the carriage could be used for functions.

The focus then switched to the lower level, with once again all of

the seating being removed so repairs, painting and the new vinyl flooring could be installed.

The seats were not replaced on the lower level and this is now a function room.

Both ends of the double-decker carriage were converted, with a kitchenette / service area at one end and wash room facilities at the other.

The penultimate moment for the station was the arrival of heritage locomotive BHP #16, which is on loan from the NSW State Rail Museum at Thirlmere.

Once the locomotive had been carefully sited at the front of the rolling stock, the landscapers moved in and the final result is the beautiful South Creek Station, welcoming visitors to St Marys.

Glitz and Glamour in Penrith for this year’s Afford’s Got Talent

F

or the fourth consecutive year, Afford (The Australian Foundation for Disability) hosted the annual Afford’s Got Talent event recently to showcase and celebrate the diverse and amazing abilities of the many people with disability who attend Afford sites across Sydney.

Penrith residents from the Afford Group Homes mesmerised members of the audience at this year’s event by dressing in shirts displaying flags from all around the world.

The group overwhelmed the crowd with Acknowledgment to Country and the Australian National Anthem (Multicultural), followed by an inspiring Welcome speech by Afford Chairman, Ross Fowler, before the night carried on.

Performances by Afford Supported Employees from the Minchinbury ADE included an Indian Dance, Grease Remix and a rendition of Slim Dusty’s We’ve Done Us Proud.

Clients from Afford Jamisontown Day Program and Cherrywood Day Program were thrilled to perform Dance Jam and Do Re Mi respectively, while Mt Druitt Day Program clients took to the stage for a tremendous dance and song routine.

The Afford’s Got Talent event is staged purely for client enjoyment

Jamisontown Day Program cliens performed Dance Jam

and was first held four years ago to provide clients with the opportunity for self expression in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The event is a chance for clients with their families and carers, along with Afford staff to come and celebrate the unique talents and abilities of those in the Afford community. It is an opportunity for everyone to let their hair down, socialise with others and form new friendships.

Held on 3 August at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith, this year’s Afford’s Got Talent showcase was packed with an amazing 27 singing, dancing and

musical performances from Afford clients.

Bright, sparkly, colourful, bow tied, glitter covered clients filled the room with everyone dressed to impress in matching outfits. There were teams of blue glitter suits, cowboys, Hawaiian dancers, bow ties and suits, face paint, matching Afford site shirts and much more.

The evening began with a delicious sausage sizzle, followed by scrumptious cakes and treats brought in by each site.

Steven Herald, CEO at Afford says that Afford clients look forward to the Afford’s Got Talent event every year

and enjoy the opportunity to get up on stage.

“Afford’s Got Talent is a wonderful event that celebrates the unique abilities of every client.”

“Afford’s Got Talent is a truly inspiring event that allows all clients to express themselves, build their confidence in being in the spotlight and also encourages new friendships,” said Mr Herald.

“Performers practice for many weeks and months to get their routines and songs just right. It’s amazing to see all the hard work come together on one evening and the wonderful talent that we have in our Afford community.”

“Afford’s Got Talent is about each and every client. It showcases their determination to achieve and perform in front of a group of peers, family and friends.”

Afford is a leading not-for-profit disability organisation that supports people living with disability across New South Wales and Queensland.

Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in NSW for 65 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people across Sydney every day.

For more information about Afford, visit www.afford.com.au or call 1300 233 673.

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

All Aboard at South Creek Station

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

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local news

Q and A with Lindsay MP Emma Husar

By KeRRIE DAVIES

F

OR a period of almost a month there was barely a publication that didn’t have a story about our local Federal MP, Emma Husar on the front cover.

It began with Buzzfeed alleging dozens of complaints from former staffers, and in the days that followed just about every media outlet in the country was running some version of commentary about Ms Husar, her staffers, her office or speculating on Opposition Leader Bill Shorten’s knowledge of any complaints raised.

Eventually, following massive media coverage, Ms Husar released a statement regarding her intention to bow out of politics at the next election.

Ms Husar has now returned to work in her Penrith office and has this week returned to parliament. Your writer met with her last week to have a chat about the events of the last few weeks.

KD: Was there any validity at all to any of the allegations made by former staff members about your conduct or how your office operated?

EH: Being new to Politics in a marginal seat electorate, I definitely didn’t have the benefit or experience within the ‘party machine’. I am not perfect and there are things that I could have done better, there were complaints which were quite petty (for example buying fundraising calendars for the team) and there were things that were simply untrue. The assessment into my office showed clearly that there was nothing of significance and no reason to leave Parliament. I have apologised to anyone I let down and have always taken any opportunity available to learn more.

On reflection, do you think there were components of the job that were unknown territory for you, and that ALP or parliamentary training should form part of the early appointment period for new MPs? There are two formal days of training provided in house practice that relates to my work in Canberra and how the House operates. There is nothing else available by way of formal training.

Establishing an electorate office is much like opening a small business and I have said for sometime it has been like trying to fly a plane, while learning how to fly it and building the plane at the same time. My focus has always been on the constituents I serve and making sure their needs are met, we have a lot of people in our community who need help with Centrelink, the NDIS and the Nepean Hospital. They will always come first.

Do you think a male MP would have been subjected to the same level of media scrutiny following the allegations?

Many of the allegations raised by the named complainant were gender based, extremely hurtful and most importantly, untrue. If we’re being honest we’ve seen some pretty poor behaviour by male MPs who were not forced out of their seats by relentless slut-shaming. In fact we don’t ever use that as a tactic on men to undermine or diminish them.

Has the experience changed your view of a career in politics?

It’s all about perspective. This episode was the work of a few faceless people, and one named complainant and is not reflective of the good work Labor policies can deliver. I am still as passionate as ever about helping people, about changing the things that are broken – like education funding, electricity certainty, family court reform and the roll out of the NDIS. I am more cautious now and will probably wear my heart on my sleeve less than before. I still fiercely believe in our democracy as the only way of changing things.

During the media storm was there a single moment frozen in time where you thought things can’t possibly get any worse than this very moment?

The day I had to announce I wasn’t recontesting. I have given my all to my role as the member for Lindsay and for our community, putting in 12 and 14 hour days, working 7-days most weeks and getting to know our community.

It felt very unjust that one person with a heap of vexatious allegations - and media reporting them unchecked could bring that all down.

You’ve had a lot of supporters and a lot of critics throughout the last month. What would you say to the critics who say the allegations of the former staffers have not been addressed?

The assessment process has concluded and given its findings. The Party Ombudsman has reviewed the process and been critical of it.

What would you say to the supporters who are asking you to reconsider stepping out of politics and run again for Lindsay?

I have written to all of those supporters and thanked them for their continued support. I share their frustration and their disappointment.

If you stick to your decision to leave politics, will you return to teaching or do you see another career path you’d like to pursue?

I left teaching because the education system is broken. It is still broken and that is one of the major motivations I sought election to Parliament. My main aim is to keep advocating for the people who need it.

Who do you think the next Labor candidate for Lindsay should be?

Someone with passion, energy, vision and real life experience who is from our community and who loves and respects it.

What would you say to young women who are considering a career in politics?

No system is perfect, you can’t effect change standing on the outside or by being a by-stander. You’ll need a good dose of resilience and determination.

What happened to me isn’t new. Just because we have more women it doesn’t automatically change. So what I would say to both genders about considering a career is that it isn’t just about changing the gender of your elected representatives, it’s broader.

It has to also be about changing the culture. It’s remembering that this role is an honour and that you are serving your community.

What have been your proudest achievements and what will you be disappointed at not being able to see through?

Being involved and steering the

Inclusive Playground at Jordan Springs. I started that before I was even an elected MP but had the privilege of opening it as the Member.

Establishing the Women of Lindsay awards to support and encourage the stories of our local women to be told and celebrated. Working with Women’s Community Shelters to open the Haven, after the Liberals defunded specialist housing services in our area.

Standing up for kids with Autism against discrimination when Pauline Hanson said they didn’t belong. And sharing my journey with DV, which empowered both men and women to speak up and smash the myth that DV is relegated to a particular stereotype.

I have been working on the adoption inquiry looking at low rates of local adoption and how we change that to get better outcomes for kids. Family court is in a world of pain and has had significant funding cuts. The plan under this Government will endanger lives and I am concerned for children who will be further disadvantaged in that system. I have also spent some time working with stakeholders around how we better support victims of DV. And of course the NDIS and the botched roll out. Locally the Nepean Hospital remains critically short staffed and the WSA needs a proper jobs and infrastructure plan. I’ve spent a lot of time in Canberra speaking up and advocating for the west.

22,000 jobs for Penrith Penrith is projected to be home to over 22,000 new local jobs as a result of the recent land use planning announcement by the NSW Government for the land surrounding the Western Sydney Airport.

The release of the first stage of the Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan supports Council’s vision for significantly more local jobs in the region, with the airport being a catalyst for this growth.

“Planning for land use around the airport isn’t just about buildings. This transformative investment is about the future jobs, educational opportunities,

housing and parklands that will be available to our residents,” said Penrith Mayor John Thain.

“This is another game-changer for Penrith, with the capacity to supercharge our local economy and provide an array of lifestyle benefits for our City’s residents,” Cr Thain said.

These new opportunities will be located within the Northern Gateway Precinct in Penrith, at the entrance to Western Sydney Airport.

The Northern Gateway Precinct will be a centre for jobs focusing on high technology, education, research and development, with links to food

production and processing. This complements the world-leading developments already underway in Penrith.

“There’s no doubt that strong links will be developed with The Quarter, Penrith’s award-winning health and education precinct - a leading centre for engagement and innovation that’s set to create an additional 6,000 local jobs over the next decade,” said Cr Thain.

“The Northern Gateway Precinct includes the Sydney Science Park at Luddenham, which is forecast to create over 12,000 knowledge based jobs and unique future opportunities for

collaboration and growth; resulting in valuable opportunities for our residents.

“Critical to making the most of these future partnerships is ensuring our residents have access. That’s why we championed the case for the North South Rail Link and support the major road upgrades being delivered as part of the Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan,” Cr Thain said.

Stage 1 of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis Land Use and Infrastructure Implementation Plan is on exhibition until 12 October 2018.

To find out more and to have your say, visit: planning.nsw.gov.au

local news

Tackling the introduced vegetation

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Nepean River is a wonderful playground for fishing, boating and other leisure activities, not only for local residents but also visitors to the district.

However, it is also a vibrant breeding ground for introduced weeds such as Balloon Vine, Moth vine, Lantana, Madeira vine, Castor Oil, Coral Tree, African Love Grass, Privet, Green Cestrum, African Love Grass and Rhodes Grass.

There are a thankfully a number of dedicated groups working continuously on controlling and eliminating this introduced vegetation along the river, with a view to re-

CVA volunteer & Rob Spilling

introducing native vegetation to the Riverbanks.

The Bass Sydney Fishing Club was set up as a conservation-minded Club approximately thirty years ago, with a view to establishing a workable fishway on the Liverpool Weir.

In 2008,the club was approached

by Greening Australia to support an application to stock South Creek, a tributary of the Nepean River.

The Club refused initially, with restocking seen as a pointless exercise unless problem areas such as weed infestation were resolved.

Bass Sydney then undertook the planting of hundreds of trees along South Creek and only stopped at that location due to lack of funding.

Some time later, the Club approached Penrith Council in

Some of the re-planting and the volunteers enjoy a welcome tea break

regards to a spot on the Nepean River at Emu Plains and were subsequently allocated a 3.2 hectare section of the western side of the River.

Eight years later, Bass Sydney is still working tirelessly along the River and has recently been joined in the exercise by Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA), under the guidance and supervision of Penrith City Council.

Penrith CC Ranger Rob Spilling said “Bass Sydney Fishers facilitate the Bush-care group on the first Saturday of the month between 8.30am and 12noon, when they finish with a BBQ”.

“Their contribution is supported with follow-up works by the Penrith City Council Regeneration team”.

“Planting has been done at various

stages to re-vegetate after weed removal” said Mr Spilling.

“This is necessary, as competition between natives and weeds is the best way to suppress the weeds”.

Plants being reintroduced along the Riverbank include Casuarina cunninghamiana, Eucalyptus amplifolia, Callistemon saligna, Acacia binervia, Acacia floribunda, Acacia linifolia, Acacia parramattensis, Dodonaea viscosa “cuneate”, Bursaria spinosa and Breynia oblongifolia More information on CVA can be found at: http:// conservationvolunteers.com.au/ about-us/ More information on Bass Sydney Fishing Club can be found at: https:// www.basssydney.com/

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

Conservation volunteers caring for the Nepean River

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

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local news

St Marys Rugby League Club is turning PINK this October

B

reast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women with an estimated 18,087 women and 148 men being diagnosed with the disease in 2018 – that’s an average of 50 people every day.

St Marys Rugby League Club is doing something to help, turning PINK this October and asking all Members and Guests to be brave, be bold and be involved and help the Club raise funds for a variety of Cancer organisations throughout the month.

Every Sunday in October the Club will raffle off over $4,000 in prizes in their Tickled Pink Raffles with all profits going to Pink Ribbon Day. There will be pink cocktails on sale throughout the month, collection tins for the Cancer Council are already out and around the Club and will be followed by McGrath Foundation tins.

Girls Night In on Friday October 5th is the Clubs’ annual event for the Cancer Council. This much-loved, cheeky night is a huge night on the calendar and this year’s looks set to be even bigger and better with a Hollywood theme and feature band “One Hit Wonders’. Tickets include

champagne on arrival, cocktail food, guest speakers, prizes and auctions.

Tickets are just $35 each or $315 for a table of 10.

For the first time, the Club will also hold a Pink Afternoon Tea on Sunday October 14th to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation. This

inspirational event will include talks by Tracy Bevan, McGrath Foundation Ambassador & Director and entertainment by well-known local Pink tribute performer Megan McGuire. A huge array of fabulous raffle prizes and silent auction items have been donated including concert tickets to Bon Jovi & Shania Twain, a $2,000 DecoGlaze™ glass splashback voucher, a Singer sewing machine, a $500 BP fuel card, a tandem skydive, Colette handbags, nights away at Crowne Plaza & Holiday Inn hotels and many more fantastic items. Tickets to this inaugural event are just $28 each.

Tickets to Girls Night In and Pink Afternoon Tea can be purchased at St Marys Rugby League Club or by calling the Club on 9677 7777.

To find out more, head to the website http://www.stmarysleagues. com.au/whats-on/

Council signs new waste contract

O

n Friday 24 August, Penrith Council signed the new 10-year Waste Collection contract. The contract was awarded to Suez after a long and competitive tender process, and will commence from July 2019.

This is another step towards protecting our environment through effective waste management for years to come.

Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain said this new contract will not only allow Council to continue delivering a quality service, but will also provide significant service enhancements.

“Council is committed to providing a great quality service to residents that protects and preserves our environment. This contract allows us to do that, which is a win for everyone,” Cr Thain said.

“Under the new contract, new cutting-edge technology will be integrated into the service to improve the experience for all residents,” he said.

“This technology means Council can respond to queries faster, and use information to improve performance and reduce missed collections over time.

“All enquiries will be brought inhouse at Council, so residents will have a one-stop-shop for their waste needs, making it a lot easier for them to get assistance if needed.

“Residents will also continue to have access to existing services including four free bulky waste collections each year, extra collections over Christmas, specialised collection events throughout the year, and the free Community Recycling Centre,” Cr Thain continued.

Penrith Mayor John Thain signs the new waste contract

And the best news of all? “Prices will remain relatively stable for the next 10 years. This is a huge win for residents and is only possible because

the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) system insulates residents from rising landfill charges,” Cr Thain said.

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

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local news

Inspirational local girl on the path to success

By Adam Wright

K

ate Murdoch might be best known for her skills as an Australian Paralympic rower, but it’s her ability to adapt to change, as her eyesight fails, that is giving her options for future success.

She is upfront about being legally blind, but spend a few minutes with her and you quickly learn she’s not afraid to tackle the challenges a world without sight presents her.

Between rowing training, travelling, competing and working with the Office of Environment for Western Sydney Local Health District, she has managed to graduate from Certificate IV Massage Therapy and has enrolled in a Diploma of Remedial Massage at TAFE NSW. She studied massage theory at TAFE NSW Nepean and completed practical skills and experience at the TAFE NSW Blue Mountains massage facility. This purpose-built centre opens to public clients offering students hands-on experience.

Kate was inspired to study massage as a result of her time as an athlete. In the lead up to, and following her Rio Paralympic races, she literally spent time in the hands of, and working alongside, massage therapists and physiotherapists.

She had always been impressed with how their skills and knowledge could be used to help heal injured parts of her body.

“With my loss of vision I’ve been

considering other career options.

I was looking for something more hands on,” Kate said.

“When I was initially exploring ideas about learning massage, I contacted a few training providers and when I told them I’m blind they all said they couldn’t help me.

“I’m pleased to say the response from TAFE NSW was the complete opposite. They said they could absolutely help me. They were very welcoming and supportive.

Kate’s TAFE NSW teacher would use her as the model to demonstrate massage techniques to the class.

“That was clever because it meant I could feel what was happening,” she said.

“Studying with TAFE NSW also meant I was in control of when I could study. I work full time and am dependent on that income.

The courses were very hands on and practical too. My intention now is to do some voluntary work in the sports community to improve my skills while I work out my next step.

“I’ve had an amazing time with lots of support from TAFE NSW I want to learn everything I can.

“I love that I can now use massage to ease people’s physical issues in so many ways. To be able to help people through this is lovely.”

To explore Semester 2 training options offered by TAFE NSW visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

local news

By Jeremy Nash

P

ENRITH based The Creative Fringe recently hosted the RSPCA’s cupcake day to help raise much needed funds for the organisation. Over 60 people attended the event, including Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP. There was an impressive array of prizes which were generously donated by local businesses and community members, along with a table laden with delicious food.

“As a pet friendly work place the safety and welfare of our furry friends is near and dear to our hearts of everyone who works in our space,”

commented Community Manager, Rienna Kroh.

“Every Friday our studio pup Lily comes in to keep us motivated and entertained, so having the RSPCA Fundraiser morning tea was an easy initiative for all of our co-workers to get behind.”

Some of the prizes on offer included a Penrith Panthers jersey, hat and signed book, a double pass to Pinot and Picasso, a dining voucher for the Lakeside Restaurant and hair and beauty vouchers. Altogether they were able to raise an impressive $950.

“Our aim was to raise $500 for the RSPCA,” said Mrs Kroh.

“But thanks to our guests and local

businesses we well exceeded that target. We are continuously blown away by the support and kindness of the Penrith community.”

Mrs Koh is excited at the potential to host more events in the future.

“This was the second time we have hosted a morning tea for the RSPCA and I am sure it won’t be the last,” she said.

During the morning tea, CEO of The Creative Fringe Debbie O’Connor took the opportunity to further thank the Penrith community for getting behind their Think Outside the Square Challenge.

She was able to present Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn,

who is also Penrith Community Kitchen’s Committee Secretary, with 20 handmade blankets that will help make these cold nights a little more comfortable for some of our locals.

“We are so grateful for the continued support from The Creative Fringe and their community,” Gai Hawthorn said.

“It’s really great to have people who want to help the whole of the community.”

This year alone The Creative Fringe community has knitted and crocheted 70 blankets that have been donated to Mama Lana’s Community Foundation, The Haven and Penrith’s Community Kitchen proving that they are embracing co-working with a conscious.

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

Raising money for our furry friends

13

14

Legends of the Nepean Luciano Vranich

By Noel Rowsell

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enrith resident Luciano Vranich Dip Ed. has just begun his twenty-second year as President of the Henry Lawson Camera Club and undoubtedly lives for photography.

Luciano (please don’t call me Lu) joined the Henry Lawson Club in 1984 and has built a sterling career and reputation in the photography industry, as a photographer, judge, educator and more.

Luciano has served in many important roles at the Henry Lawson Club, including as a Director from 1990 to 1991 and then from 1996 to 2005, Honorary Treasurer from 1997 to May 2008 and Editor of the “Oracle” newsletter from 2004-2008.

In 1986, Luciano became the secretary of the Penrith Photographic Society and served in that role until 1992.

 Luciano Vranich montage - taken by John Maynard of Ryde Eastwood Camera Club.

In 1992, Luciano was the Chair of a sub-committee to form a new club, the Penrith Emus Photographic Club – and became Secretary of that club.

A teacher by profession, Luciano introduced photography into the school curriculum in 1985 and taught the subject until his retirement in 2002.

Not quite finished with his educational ideals, Luciano subsequently joined the University of the Third Age as a tutor in photography and also serves on the Committee.

Luciano took on the role of President of the Federation of Camera Clubs (FCC) from 2000-2002, at a time when the organisation appeared to be on the brink of collapse.

He later served from 2008-2010 as Secretary of the FCC, which had again found itself in difficulty.

He was also Chair of the Honours Sub-Committee; member Educational Sub-Committee; writer of policiesService Policy, Club Activities, Club Assistance Scheme, Application form

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Luciano Vranich was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by David Pearson.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

for Club Assistance Scheme; Assistant treasurer; F/stop editor.

Locally, Luciano has been the organiser for the Inter-club competition in 2008, assisting the Penrith RSL Photography Club.

Luciano was also involved in the Amateur Photography Day, in conjunction with Fairfax Media and started competitions and exhibitions of photography at the Penrith City Library in 2003 - these exhibitions have continued to the present day.

Luciano has been a judge at Camera

Clubs throughout NSW and also lectured on various photography subjects, including documentary, landscape, infra-red, filters, portraits with meaning, street photography and many more.

He has also judged at the Luddenham, Penrith and Blacktown Shows in the photography section.

One of Luciano’s career highlights was an invitation from Penrith Council to be a judge for a selection of art works being sent to Beijing.

Luciano also represented Penrith

City Council at Sister City Penrith Cumbria (England), accompanying wife Jean - who went as the Assistant Governor of the Rotary district.

In 2009-2010, Luciano received two FCC honours: Exceptional Service Award (FCCESA) and Exceptional Merit (EMFCC).

In 2010 -2015, he created the “Henry Lawson Camera Club Digital Invitational Competition”.

In 2012, Luciano had two images shown in the London Festival of Street Photography.

Luciano has also been a featured exhibitor at the annual ‘Head On’ Photo Festival, making his debut in 2012 with his portfolio titled ‘Abstractions’ and featuring every year since then, with this year’s subject ‘Entrapment’.

The Head-On Foundation (est.

2008) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the work of photographers at all stages of career, encouraging excellence and innovation from making photography accessible to all and raising awareness of important issues through photography.

Luciano’s interest and fascination with street photography has continued to grow and every Wednesday is devoted to street photography in Sydney, when he leads a small group of friends and club members to various locations, chasing interesting and often intriguing subject material.

The Henry Lawson Camera Club meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 7:30pm, in the theatre at the back of the Henry Sports Club, Werrington County and visitors are always welcome.

15

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR

HOME

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

16

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For all your landscaping needs

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

K

nown for helping locals and businesses to transform their outdoor spaces, Nepean Landscape and Building Supplies has recently received a facelift of its own.

Under new ownership and management since October last year, the local supply yard has undergone a complete transformation and is ready to make your landscaping dreams come true.

Manager Peter Saoushkin said providing good quality customer service was the team’s number one priority.

“Out team are here to ensure that customers receive the best product knowledge and that all their building

and landscaping needs are met,” he said.

Open six days a week and conveniently located at 22 Coombes Drive, Penrith, the business is fully stocked to meet everyone’s budget and needs.

From pavers, blocks, retaining walls, sand, soil, timber, mulch and decorative gravel, you’ll be surprised at the amount of variety on offer.

“We do everything, from commercial to residential quantities of all our products,” Mr Saoushkin said.

To find out more about the services and supplies on offer, call 4723 9100 or pop in and visit Peter and his team.

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Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

18

local news

Get ready to dip with the multi-award winning Nepean Pools

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EMPERATURES across the west are finally starting to warm up again, so if you have been thinking about planning your new pool now is the time.

The award-winning Nepean Pools is located in Penrith, meaning local residents are lucky enough that when it comes to organising your new pool there is award-winning service and a great product nearby.

Nepean Pools is a member of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association (SPASA) which represents the entire Australian aquatic leisure industry. SPASA is responsible for ensuring the relevance and credibility of all it’s members.

At the recent National SPASA awards, Nepean Pools absolutely blitzed, taking out two gold awards and for the NSW & ACT awards they took out a whopping six golds, five silvers and a bronze in the Fibreglass Pools category!

However this isn’t the first time that the Penrith local business was recognised for their efforts at the

annual SPASA awards, in 2017 they were awarded a gold and two silver, and in 2016 they won three silvers; proof that this pool company is consistent with their top level of service.

They’ve also taken out the accolades in previous Master Builder’s Association awards, winning the Excellence in Swimming Pool Awards in both 2016 and 2017.

Nepean Pools have a range of top class, state of the art fibreglass swimming pools, all with a Lifetime Structural Warranty. Each of their pools offers Fade Free colour achieved with their Pool ColourGuard Lifetime Surface Guarantee, which is exclusive to Nepean Pools.

The team at Nepean Pools pride themselves on delivering a seamless ‘full service installation’.

This means they’ll work with you and your family from the very early planning stages, through the installation and all the way to the final finishing touches.

They’re professional in not only pools, but their in-house landscaping team will help with your tiling, decking, retaining walls and decorative water features.

Nepean Pools’ fibreglass swimming pools also come with a string of other special features, including a range of colours, lights and a number of different swim jet options, all ready to install in your new pool.

Give the team at Nepean Pools a call on (02) 4722 9201 and talk to them about their special deals leading up to Summer, or visit their website at www. nepeanpools.com.au.

When your pool is installed by the team at Nepean Pools you not only have the backing of a company with an outstanding reputation, but also a family business with over 35 years of experience in the industry that operates under a Master Builders Licence and a project co-ordination service that ensures a smooth process from start to finish.

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“They ‘R’ Back!!”

Saturday 22nd September Now the Cast is as follows...

Making a triumphant return we will be featuring

Arena McClellan

Natasha Tatarinoff

Emily Nkomo

Omar Maayah

They will be supported by the

Top Line Professionals

Brett Thomas

Marty Morton

Rossco is threatening to put Himself into the Show too... So Look Out!!!

“Last June, following Local Talent Quests, it was declared that these talented youngsters should be given a chance to enhance their career and skills by being put in a specially designed Professional Show, supported by Full Time Professionals... And Boy !..

Didn’t that happen!!!... It was such a success that it has led to this new Show happening on Saturday 22nd this month at The Penrith Paceway .. A Great Night is assured” said Rosco.

This time the show will be backed by our brilliant local big band...

Bird Yard Big Band The Band has 17 members who are just Superb It will be another great night out full of fantastic new talent!! Brilliant comedians and superb music and dancing plus delicious food!!! A perfect night out!! (We may introduce a few further surprises)

Dinner and Show Only $65 per head - Paceway Showroom 7pm for 7.30PM Bookings Essential | Phone 4721 2620 | PENRITH PACEWAY

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

20

ENTERTAINMENT

Four-Colour-Season F OU R C OL OU R S E A S ON THE SONG COMPANY

WITH DANCERS FROM Thomas E.S. Kelly’s Karul Projects

TI C K E TS The seasons, the sky, and the gum leaves in voices and dance.

An atmospheric journey from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons to new Australian music.

BOX OFFICE

|

4723 7600

|

STANDARD $55 CONCESSION $50 UNDER 30 $30 STUDENTS $20

FRIDAY 28 SEPT 7.30PM

www.thejoan.com.au

JOAN SUTHERLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE 597 HIGH STREET, PENRITH NSW 2750

T

he traditional four seasons of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter have been depicted in European art and music for centuries, but the Aboriginal experience of the seasons is a far more varied and subtle story that tells of the patterns of animal and plant life and their direct impact on survival.

Four-Colour-Season is an evergreen selection of song and brand-new Indigenous dance to match the patterns and movement of the Australian seasons. Taking an atmospheric journey from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons to new Australian music, the act of singing is intrinsically linked with storytelling and culture.

In this sympathetic synthesis of art forms, The Song Company is joined by a duo of dancers from The

Thomas E.S. Kelly Project to trace the course of the Earth’s annual journey in movement and song, both old and new.

Through song lines and vocal music, knowledge and philosophy are passed down through generations.

Thomas E.S. Kelly creates work that offers audiences an opportunity to learn about Aboriginal Australia and where that fits into to the modern world - acknowledging the past to understand the present, to better the future.

The program includes arrangements from Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and music ranging from Alice Chance’s Pallah-Pallah to Francis Poulenc’s Un soir de neige.

Bookings www.thejoan.com.au or 4723 7600.

The Pioneer Tavern invites you to an Audrey Wilkinson Wine Appreciation Night Join Audrey Wilkinson, renowned 150 year old Hunter Valley winery, for a 6 course feast carefully paired with Audrey Wilkinson wines.

DATE: Thursday 18th October LOCATION: Pioneer Tavern, Cnr Maxwell St & The Northern Rd, Penrith TIME: 7pm

To book call (02) 4736 4466 or ask at the bar.

Limited tickets available - book now to secure your seat!

02 4736 4647 THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

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MONDAY Barramundi Night $15 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Bangers & Mash Night $15 THURSDAY Parmy Night $15

• Includes a 2 course meal and glass of bubbly • Entertainment by “Steppin’ Out” from 12pm • Best Dressed & Lucky Door prizes to be won • Tickets $45 pp (bookings essential)

Between 5 & 8pm (Conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

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FRIDAY 21 SEPT - 8PM

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Shaylee

Skyz the Limit

Muddy Feet

Advancement Club Hall / Vogue Theatre / Theatre Mt Druitt / Family Cinema

by Les Tod OAM

T

he foundation stone for the Advancement Club Hall was laid on 18 April 1925 by the President of Blacktown Shire, Arthur Morehead. The hall was situated in Mt Druitt Road South and money for its construction was raised from the local community, principally through a series of social evenings in various private homes.

A huge crowd attended the official opening on 8 February 1925 as well as many civic dignitaries. A second celebration took place on 21 August 1925 for the Crowning of the Queen, officiated by the Blacktown Shire Council President, and featuring the crowning of Miss Edna Gehde as Queen.

Over the years that followed the hall was used extensively for dancing, library, a Roman Catholic church until a proper church was built, and by organisations such as the Masonic Club, Buffalo Lodge, Independent Order of Oddfellows, Park Committees, Labor Party Meetings, Boy Scouts, Weight Watchers, dancing classes, Sunday School and many more.

In November 1925 St Mary’s Police wrote “it is up-to-date in every way and a credit to the district, and complies with every regulation of the Act.” By the end of World War 2 the hall was suffering due to lack of maintenance, and an agreement was made with Mr Dick Simpson, the operator of the Tasma Pictures in the Wallgrove Migrant Camp, to convert it into a cinema. Simpson had to construct a projection room, install theatre seats and install a screen. He opened his Vogue Theatre on 5 June 1946 with Elizabeth Taylor in MGM’s National Velvet. He would run this film again on the first anniversary of the Vogue.

Mr Simpson recalls that there were no street lights in those days, and if one looked from the theatre, lanterns and torches could be seen as patrons made their way to the hall. Riders left their horses hitched to the fence outside, and sulkies were left in a nearby churchyard.

In 1949 he applied for permission to increase seating from 317 to 343 by adding two rows to the rear seating.

In 1955 widescreen CinemaScope was installed, which necessitated a new screen and alterations to the stage area, CinemaScope – more than twice the width of normal cinema screens – was the technological marvel of the day, and many blockbuster films were made in the new medium.

In 1957 a new foyer was erected on the northern side of the hall.

In 1966 Mr Simpson informed St Mary’s Police that the building

 Photo courtesy: Les Tod

was now owned by Blacktown Shire Council. (19) Police advised the Chief Secretary “visited hall on 25 September 1966. I was present when Mr Simpson removed the old curtain that was suspended between the screen and the back wall.”

Dick Simpson sold the Vogue Theatre in 1968. A pioneer of cinemas in the far western suburbs, he passed away in 2014.

In 1970 it was still screening three times weekly, although by 1974 this was down to two nights a week. The seating at that time was 260.

In 1974 it was renamed the Family Cinema, utilising a subsidy from the Whitlam Government to show a policy of family film screenings only. This grant was swiftly withdrawn by the following Fraser Government.

In 1976 extensions were completed for the construction of a kiosk and a covered walkway as well as new male and female toilets.

By 1978 it was the Vogue Theatre again, and Dick Simpson continued to work there as projectionist, under operator Stuart Ford. Around that time seats were installed from the former Hoyts Esquire Theatre at Chatswood.

In 1983 more seats were replaced using almost-new seating from the former Mall Cinema at Merrylands. Air conditioning and stereophonic sound were also installed.

The cinema closed after the September 1984 school holidays, then reopened for the December 1984 school holidays. It closed permanently at the end of January 1985 and all of its cinematic fittings were removed.

The hall’s career as a cinema had finally come to an end.

The projectors are now in the possession of Mt Druitt Historic Society.

Many local adults fondly recall going to the Vogue as children, and the hall still stands in use by the community for which it was built.

23 Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

MOUNT DRUITT:

NEPEAN HISTORY

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

24

SPORT

PVSF Senior Sport Star Award

By CONNER LOWE

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he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Shaylan Whatman the Senior Sport Star Award for the month of July for her amazing development and skill in Softball.

Shaylan has been playing Softball for nine years and in this time has attained some incredible achievements. Here is a list of her achievements over the past 12 months: - U/19’s Australian Squad: Participated in Friendships Softball Series (Brisbane, July 2018) - U/19’s NSW State Softball Team (January 2018) - Selected in the All Australian Schools Softball Merit Team - NSW All Schools Softball team - Co-captain - named MVP of the tournament.

- U/19’s Penrith City Softball Representative Team (Captain) - Coaching - Glenmore Phantoms Under 16s team - Australian Friendship Series - Member of Western Sydney Sport Academy Softball Program - Glenmore Park Phantoms Club Person of the Year Shaylan spoke about how she felt upon receiving her award and her greatest achievement in Softball thus far.

“Being nominated is such an honour and with softball being back in the Olympics it’s amazing seeing softball athletes being recognised and the sport being promoted,” she said.

“Being a part of the Australian Friendships Series two years in a row was a massive achievement for me, getting advice from coaches from all around Australia definitely helped me

acquire a new skill set.”

Daniel Murphy, the Vice-President of the Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club spoke about Shaylan and her dedication to the sport.

“Shaylan is an extremely talented athlete, who is committed to reaching her full potential in the sport of softball,” he said.

“She is an excellent role model to all her team mates, and the younger players at her club. Shaylan always tries to be involved at the local level by helping out and has begun coaching junior teams in Glenmore Phantoms Club.”

Shaylan also spoke about what drives her in the sport and how often she is training through her final year of high school.

“The competitive nature that is constant throughout the game really drives my passion for the game. The

social aspect of the game also brings so much fun and energy to the games, being able to play with and against my friends is awesome,” she said.

“Train for softball roughly 4 times a week during my HSC period.

Hopefully I’ll be able to work hard and go overseas to play for Australia eventually.”

We would like to congratulate Shaylan on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Softball for the future.

PVSF Junior Sportsperson Award

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Emma Matthias from Emu Plains the Junior Sportsperson Award for the month of August for her amazing development and skill in athletics and soccer.

Emma Matthias has been doing little athletics for over five years, and her recent achievements have been very impressive.

In the Under 11 competition, she finished in first place in javelin, shot put and discus at both zone and regional level. She set a zone record for javelin and a regional record for shot put.

These results were good enough to get Emma into the state competition where she finished first in javelin,

second in discus and third in shot put, winning the State Champion award for the second year in a row.

She also holds the Emu Plains athletics club records for discus, shot put and javelin.

“I am very glad to have been nominated and I feel honoured that others have recognised my achievements in athletics,” Emma said.

“I love competing in athletics and the competition. I love meeting and improving on myself and trying to better myself.”

These achievements have not come without hard work, with a lot of training both with her coach and at home involved.

“I train for my throws at least three times a week with my coach Hayden Perry for a minimum of two hours,” Emma said.

“He then gives me homework to do, which is my strength work at home which I do most nights. When athletics starts back up I will be going to athletics twice a week on top of my training.”

Additionally, Emma also plays up two age groups for the Penrith RSL Under 14 Girls soccer team.

“I’ve played since I was four and I’ve grown up around soccer. I enjoy playing up the age groups because it pushes me to be a better player,” she said.

“I enjoy getting outside running around and kicking the ball around.

I also enjoy soccer and being a team player.”

Emma is hoping to one day represent her country in athletics and lists an important role model in achieving that goal.

“I would like to go to the Olympics

and Commonwealth Games. Dani Stevens inspires me every day and I would hope to inspire others to also live their dreams.”

We would like to congratulate Emma Matthias on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in athletics and soccer for the future.

Congratulations to 2018 Winners of Nepean Valley Sports Foundation Awards Volunteer of the Year Petrina Pula – Penrith RSL Rugby Union Club

Coach Award Chris Coleman – Softball

Administration Award Josh Gately – MacKillop Baseball Club

Team of the Year Panthers U18 SG Ball Team

All Abilities Award Mikayla Kumar – Goalball

Masters Athlete Award Linda Hernando – Long Distance Running

Referee/Umpire Award David Atkins – Rugby League Jim Anderson Memorial Award Bill Borg – St Clair Rugby League The St Marys Leagues Junior Sportstar of the Year Award David Quinn – Ice hockey

Rising Star Award Ebony McLean & Matthew Alcock – Acrobatic Gymnastics The Panthers World of Entertainment Senior Sportstar of the Year Award Jacob Donaldson – Fastpitch Softball

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

team playing throughout the finals teams.

The men’s first division saw a talented Panthers team easily defeat a courageous Rooty Hill RSL. In division two of the men’s competition Penrith RSL defeated Emu Plains.

Jan Harrison, a life member of the Nepean Hockey Association spoke about the presentation and when the new fields will be ready to go.

“The highlight of the presentations was the attendance and presentation of the trophies and medals by Councillor Mckeown,” she said.

“Sadly, the new turf was not completed for the Grand finals, but we look forward to the first games to be played on the new turf when the summer competition commences.”

Judy Gray, a Life member of Richmond, Nepean Hockey Association and the Western District Women’s Hockey Association presented the State Shield to the winning clubs. Judy along with Margaret Kristaly (Richmond), Michelle Kennedy (Emu Plains) and Melissa Lambeth (Emu Plains) will represent NSW in Bunbury WA for the Australian Championships later this month.

T

he Nepean H o c k e y Association Grand Finals were played on a fantastic day held out at UWS on Saturday. The Gold Medal Masters Ladies from the State Tournament in July were in action throughout the three NHA Grand Finals.

It was a great day for the Women’s and Men’s hockey divisions with Richmond, Emu Plains, Penrith RSL, Rooty Hill RSL and Panthers Hockey Clubs competing over the day.

In the ladies first division, history was made when Emu Plains defeated Panthers 2-1 in an extremely tight contest. The centre erupted as Emu Plains have been the only team to defeat Panthers in the round games this season. Panthers have been undefeated since the Western Districts Women’s merged with the men to become Nepean Hockey Association in 2011.

Richmond Women’s Hockey Club finished runners up in division two and division three going down to Panthers in both matches. There were 10 of the ladies from the Master’s State winning

Westfield Matildas return to Penrith headlining a week of sporting action

P

enrith Council has again partnered with Football Federation Australia to bring the Westfield Matildas to Penrith for a clash of international proportions.

The Westfield Matildas, who defeated arch rivals Brazil in a nailbiting victory in last year’s match at Penrith Stadium, will take on 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers Chile on Saturday 10 November.

Penrith Mayor, Cr John Thain, said the announcement is a major coup for the city and has again proven Penrith is the home of world class events in Western Sydney.

“By securing the Westfield Matildas vs Chile match, Council has delivered on its commitment to providing headline events for locals to enjoy in their own backyard and cemented Penrith’s reputation as the home of major events and sporting action in Western Sydney.”

The Westfield Matildas’ vs Chile match, will headline a massive week of sporting action in Penrith including the NSW Golf Open Championship 5-11 November and Veterans Cricket Australian National Championship 1015 November.

This impressive sporting line-up is expected to attract thousands of visitors to Penrith, providing a substantial economic boost to local businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

“The exceptional quality of Penrith’s accommodation, dining, outdoor, adventure and cultural experiences, will ensure visitors want to stay after the sporting action is over, injecting

valuable tourism dollars into the local visitor economy,” Cr Thain said.

“With its reputation for hosting internationally renowned events and with so much for visitors to see and do in Penrith, it’s easy to see why Penrith was a natural choice to host this thrilling clash between two proud sporting nations.”

Westfield Matildas Head Coach Alen Stajcic will be using these two matches as part of his team’s preparation for the FIFA Women’s World Cup which will be held in June next year in France.

“Chile are an emerging nation in international women’s football and have qualified for next year’s FIFA Women’s World cup for the first time in their history,” said Stajcic.

“They (Chile) had a fantastic Copa America this year and have showed a great level of technical proficiency, as we would expect from a proud South American footballing nation.

“For us to prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup we need to play against a diverse range of opposition and Chile will be great challenge for us.

“The atmosphere at our matches in Penrith and Newcastle last year was amazing and I know that the players are looking forward to running out in front of large, vocal home crowds,” concluded Stajcic.

Tickets for the Westfield Matildas vs Chile are now available at matildas.footballaustralia.com.au/ tickets Once you’ve got your tickets head to visitpenrith.com.au to plan your big week of sporting action in Penrith.

(L to R) NSW Sports Minister The Hon Stuart Ayers MP, Westfield Matildas Head Coach Alen Stajcic, Westfield Matilda Chloe Logarzo, Penrith City Council Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen and Penrith City Council Mayor John Thain.

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

A huge upset in the Nepean Hockey Association Grand finals

25

SPORT

Cricket scores new nets at Jamison Park

By Jeremy Nash

M

ember for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Mayor John Thain, have joined together with members from Cricket NSW and Nepean District Cricket Association (NDCA) to officially open the new cricket nets at Jamison Park.

The NDCA received a $40,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program to make the upgrade possible.

Mr Ayres said the new nets meet Cricket Australia recommendations and safety guidelines and will be a terrific benefit to the cricket community in the area.

“The massive popularity of cricket continues across Penrith and these

nets ensure the players have safe modern facilities,” Mr Ayres said.

The Treasurer of the NDCA, Jim Micsko, was very grateful for the upgrade as it will help meet the growth and demands of cricket in the area.

“On behalf of our Association and affiliated Clubs, I thank Minister Stuart Ayres for this funding to support all of the patrons of cricket in the wider Penrith area,” said Mr Micsko.

Mayor John Thain is excited about the impact the new nets will have on cricket players in the area.

“I think it’s fantastic. It’s a great opportunity for young kids and cricket players to have some practice in some nets that are high quality and I hope it improves their sport,” he said.

CROSSWORD

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

26

ACROSS 9 Gave off (7) 10 Stretchable (7) 11 Engages for work again (7) 12 Beseech (7) 13 An expression of criticism (9) 15 Breadth (5) 16 Japanese warrior (7) 19 Mocks (7) 20 Horrible in savagery (5) 21 Most nauseous (9) 25 Hunting guide (7) 26 A wise king of Israel (7) 28 The _______ Falcon (7) 29 Ennoble (7) DOWN 1 Listener (6) 2 Senior church official (6) 3 Sun (4)

4 5 6 7 8 14 16 17 18 22 23 24 27

City in south central Ukraine (6) Protected (8) Ramparts (10) Was present at (8) Whiskies (8) Exposes to radiation (10) Being the exact same one (8) Senior generals (archaic) (8) Asks (8) Christian holy holiday (6) Hostility (6) Kindling (6) Permits (4)

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Thank you Lord Jesus for all the blessings given to my family, especially my daughter.

May the name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and praised throughout the world forever. Amen.

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

T

he latest Inter-Club event in the Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfers Association took place at Wallacia GC on August 31, with the home club’s members utilising their home course knowledge to win the day’s major prize.

The Wallacia team of Paddy Thorpe, David Knox, Glen Vine and Frank Killeen romped to victory with 158 points, ahead of the Richmond team in second with 154.

The individual and two-ball awards were also dominated by players from Wallacia and Richmond.

2BBB: Glen Vine & Peter Curtis (Wallacia) 48 points; Rod King and Dennis Pickering (Richmond) 47 points c/b.

2BBB Medley: Judy Loader and Steve Loader (Stonecutters) 45 points; Mei McCormick and Matt Morrow (Leonay) 44 points c/b.

Div 1 Men: Ian Jordan (Richmond) 40; Bill Tonks (Dunheved) 38; Frank Killeen (Wallacia) 37 c/b.

Div 2 Men: Garry Denny (Leonay) 39; John Ross (Glenmore) 38 c/b; Brian Metcalfe (Leonay) 38 c/b.

Div 3 Men: Paddy Thorpe (Wallacia) 43; David Knox (Wallacia) 39; Fred Walshaw (Richmond) 38 c/b.

Ladies: Julie Berg (Wallacia) 33; Leonie Manczak (Richmond) 31; Annette Leck (Richmond) 30.

The next Inter-Club will be held at Glenmore Heritage Valley on September 26.

The final round of the T.L. Warren and W. Gibson Trophy Pennants competition was held last Sunday but despite some last-round victories, none of the local Golf Clubs have qualified for the playoffs.

However, whilst not strictly a local club, Richmond GC did progress from the Western Sydney Region, following a last-round win over Lynwood Country Club.

The first round of the elimination finals is on 16th September, with Glenmore Heritage Valley GC and Eastlake GC acting as host venues

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

Wallacia Stroll to Victory in WSRVGA Inter-Club

27

Action from the WSRVGA Inter-Club event at Wallacia GC. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

(Team match-ups to be announced).

The results of the final round were: T.L. Warren (B Grade): Leonay 2 def Antill Park 1; Wallacia 2 def Bondi 1; Balgowlah 2 def Penrith 1; Richmond

2 def Lynwood 1 W. Gibson (C Grade): Leonay 2 def Antill Park 1; Wallacia 3 def Bondi 0; Penrith 2 def Balgowlah 1; Lynwood 2.5 def Richmond 0.5

Jeff takes out the Nepean News 2018

T

he 2018 Rugby League Competition might be at the serious end of the season but we have concluded our tipping Competition and we have a winner.

Jeff Watson, Club President of St Marys Band Club is our winner on 244 points. Over the last few rounds Victor Glanville from Vic’s Maxi Transport has been nipping at Jeff’s heals but just couldn’t grab him, with Vic coming in second on 238 points. Third was our very own columnist Brock Shepperd on 230 points.

To all our celebrity tipsters thank you

Celebrity TIPSTERS for your involvement throughout the season as it adds some fun competition to our League coverage, you have all been great participants.

Our winner receives 2 tickets to the grand final. Once again congratulations Jeff Watson.

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Jeff Watson Sharon Spindler Romano Garofali Victor Glanville Brett McVea Toby Hughes Daniel Galea Vic Shipley John Thain Iris Russell Thor

Coach’s Corner W

And then there were six...

hat a fantastic first week of the NRL Finals we have just witnessed. The Melbourne Storm defending premiers who defended their home patch against an ill disciplined South Sydney team who will lament that loss after gifting Melbourne opportunities through errors and penalties at critical times. That result sees the Storm get a week off to wait for the winner of the Panthers and Sharks match and it has set up a massive all Sydney derby match between Souths and the Dragons who managed the biggest upset of week one after they smashed the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium to send Wayne Bennett’s men out of this years competition. The Broncos season was riddled with inconsistency and it has cost them before they could fire a shot in the post season. The Dragons were fantastic they played with plenty of energy and composure at crucial stages.

The Panthers were super impressive in the first week of the finals as they hammered the Warriors at ANZ Stadium. The halves combination seems to be getting better each week and the forward pack is returning to the kind of form that saw them lead the competition halfway through the season. They will now face a Sharks side who had plenty of chances to upset the Roosters but failed to capitalise on several occasions. The Roosters and Storm now look ominous chances to make the Grand Final as the week’s break is a huge advantage. The Roosters have a slight concern with Latrell Mitchell facing a charge for a crusher tackle on Josh Dugan, I tend to think he will fail in his bid to get off that charge.

Next time you read this column it will be Grand Final week! So here are my predictions... I think the Panthers upset the Sharks this Friday night, I hope the Panthers keep the shackles off in attack and

244 WINNER 218 202 238 (2nd) 218 198 220 220 214 204 222

Mark Geyer Prue Car Cr Aaron Duke Peter Zaccazan Paul Wallace Jim Hill Emma Husar Steve Beard Aaron Tyers Brock Shepperd Sharon Mudiman

210 220 212 190 208 206 214 210 206 230 (3rd) 220

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

throw the ball around. If they do I think they have too many points in them. If the Sharks get it their way they will be tough to beat. In the preliminary final I think the Storm would be far too good for the Panthers, but if the Sharks manage to get through it could cause the Storm some issues with their dour style as it has a history of causing the Storm issues in big matches. In the second match I like Souths to end the Dragons season. Mainly due to the fact Souths have had an 8 day turn around into the match while the Dragons only have 6 days and a host of injuries. That will set up a massive preliminary final against the Roosters... who wins that match? Flip a coin I just hope they sell Allianz Stadium out and we see a fantastic contest. But give the Roosters the edge with the weeks break and especially if Mitchell can get off his charge at the judiciary. Enjoy the footy!

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

28

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Brave “Bill” overcomes nerves, ready to push Penrith’s title hopes

By STEWART MOSES

M

@TheRiffMarn

uch has been made of Fijian powerhouse back-rower Viliame “Bill” Kikau’s emergence as a key element in Penrith’s push for premiership glory in 2018.

After an indifferent start to his NRL career in 2017, Kikau has bounced back spectacularly in 2018 having missed just the one game and has lifted his playing minutes from 21 minutes to 69 minutes, forming a potent left edge combination with Waqa Blake and Josh Mansour in the process.

But despite his new-found confidence, nothing could prepare Kikau for last Saturday’s elimination final encounter with the New Zealand Warriors, with the Fijian forward admitting nerves nearly got the better of him before putting in a strong performance in his maiden NRL finals appearance.

“Leading up to the game I was a bit nervous. I had a less than average sleep the night before just kept waking up.

Viliame Kikau overcame nerves to be one of Penrith’s best last Saturday night.

Credit: NRL Photos.

I think I was thinking about the game way too much,” Kikau told Nepean News.

“But I made up some sleep on game day with little naps throughout the day which helped and I knew then I was ready.”

“I think it was everything that led up to the game, knowing what this means to the club.

“I only watched the Grand Finals growing up so that’s the first time I’ve

ever been at an NRL final, let alone playing at one.

“I’m so lucky enough to be a part of this, I’m over the moon.”

Having played in last year’s ISP finals and then the World Cup for Fiji, Kikau, who has played more than any other Panther over the past twelve months, concedes that his body is overdue for a rest as he nurses an elbow injury similar to that former skipper Peter Wallace took into the 2016 finals.

“I’m really enjoying playing footy but it’s taking its toll on the body. I’m hanging for a break to be honest,” Kikau admits.

“It’s taking a couple of days to get over (games) and whenever I can get a day off then I can get the body rested.

“The elbow ligament needs to be rested, but its finals week and they gave me the decision to make.

“I don’t know when I will play finals footy again so I’ve made the decision to play on.”

The Panthers have some unfinished business to take care of first before there is any notion of a break, starting with this Friday night’s elimination

semi-final versus long-time foes, Cronulla, having lost eight of their last nine games played including both games in 2018.

Despite that less than enviable record, Kikau believes they are playing the Sharks at the right time and is especially looking forward to the challenge of playing opposite former Panthers’ legend Luke Lewis, who could ironically play the last game of his stellar career against his former club.

“Obviously we’ve lost twice to them this year and while they are a good side, the playing group that we have right now is confident,” Kikau declared.

“Last week’s game against New Zealand will have us ready for this game.

“It comes at the right time for us and I think we’ll give them a good run for their money.

“I’m blessed to be playing against the best opponents like Luke Lewis, who is a legend of the game.

“I’ve played him before and while it will be a tough challenge for me, I’m looking forward to it all the same.”

It’s finals time and Mansour’s ready to roar again

By STEWART MOSES

I

@TheRiffMarn

t only feels like yesterday that Josh Mansour left us with that endearing roar of delight towards the Allianz crowd after scoring in the 2016 finals against Canterbury.

But since then it’s been a rollercoaster ride for the representative winger with serious knee and facial injuries having curtailed significant portions of Mansour’s past two seasons.

But despite being eight games back from his latest injury, Mansour admits it’s only recently that the confidence has returned to his game.

“I think our last three games (I’ve felt more confident),” Mansour told the Nepean News.

“I’ve just got to keep taking it game by game now.

“It’s a bit of a rollercoaster couple of years. I’ve had to fight a lot of adversity.

The biggest issue according to Mansour has been trying not to think too much about the prospect of taking further knocks around that left eye.

“Probably about three weeks ago (I stopped thinking about my left eye), if I’m going to be totally honest,” Mansour admitted.

“It was definitely playing on my mind a bit.

“I copped a few hits here and there in the first couple of games which was frustrating.

“The Canberra game especially kind of rattled me a bit.

“But I haven’t stayed down that’s for sure.”

Penrith’s back-to-back wins versus Melbourne (for the first time in Melbourne since 2005) and week one finals opponent, the NZ Warriors, have arguably been two of Mansour’s best games of the season.

And ironically it has come off the back of a controversial incident during

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the recent Storm clash that led to the NSW and Australian winger being sent to the sin-bin by Gerard Sutton for the first time as a footballer.

Whilst not proud of his reaction to the decision, Mansour remains adamant he was hard done by despite fearing he had let down the team in the process.

“Obviously I vented my frustration, I think you could hear it on the TV so yeah it definitely crossed my mind (being embarrassed by what was said),” Mansour conceded.

“But it was my first sin-binning ever.

It was something new to me.

“In my view, I didn’t think it was a penalty but at the end of the day, the ref called what he saw, well the bunker did and I had to move on from it.

“The thought I’d let the boys down was what hurt me the most so I just had to get back on and make sure I helped the boys in whatever way I could.”

Mansour says it could yet prove to

Mansour back to his old self again.

Credit: NRL Photos.

be the defining moment for a team that was coming under plenty of scrutiny, as they continue their push through this year’s final series.

“I think that’s the best thing. Out of all the frustration and adversity we copped, we stuck solid together as a team and that’s the pleasing thing about it as we look ahead.”

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PENRITH PANTHERS

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

PANTHERS WEATHER THE STORM, SEE OFF THE WARRIORS BUT FACE NEW HOODOOS The Panthers having finished fifth (as predicted by yours truly before season’s start) have for the third consecutive season, reached week two of the finals after back-to-back wins over Melbourne (their first at AAMI Stadium and just their second win overall since 2005) and the Warriors, with the James Maloney’s return from a knee injury proving to be pivotal to both wins.

While Penrith may have put to bed the Storm hoodoo, the NRL’s worst head-to-head record between any two clubs, prior to their five tries to two 22-16 win, by eliminating the Warriors 27-12 last Saturday night, the Panthers now face THREE key hoodoos going into this Friday night’s first ever finals clash against bitter rivals, Cronulla.

The Panthers have lost eight of their last nine games against the Sharks, having last defeated Cronulla away from Penrith way back in 2012 and have lost all five clashes since their last win back in 2015.

The Panthers also haven’t won their second finals appearance since 2003 – that includes the 2004 prelim final, losses in both finals appearances in 2010, another prelim final loss in 2014 and back-to-back week two losses in 2016 & 2017.

To make things even harder for the Panthers, they have the least success under match officials Ashley Klein (7 wins from 25 games) and Adam Gee (4 wins from 13 games).

The Panthers’ showdown with Cronulla comes after their latest come-from-behind win, this time against the Warriors.

The Panthers trailed 12-2 after 15 minutes but as Panthers coach Cameron Ciraldo explained, he wasn’t too concerned by yet another slow start.

“I thought we were doing some good things at the start,” Ciraldo said.

“I wasn’t too concerned. Two tries (we conceded) we can fix.

“You give teams like that a start it’s hard to crawl back but we turned it around pretty quickly and pretty well.”

It was James Maloney’s kicking game that turned the tide Penrith’s way, with three unanswered tries including a double to Tyrone Peachey, allowing the home final team to wrestle back control of the game to lead 18-12 at the break.

The kicking game from the Panthers halves was relentless in the second half, with the Warriors often starting their sets from deep inside from their own 20m line, restricting the likes of Shaun Johnson, Issac Luke and Blake Green from setting

Catch all the live coverage of a clash worthy of a Grand Final between two teams who have won a game apiece in their 2018 head-to-head clashes, on Hawkesbury Radio 89.9FM.

The Panthers celebrate another finals win.

Credit: NRL Photos.

up any dangerous attacking plays.

A professional and composed rather than a brilliant 9-0 second half shut out, ensured the Panthers would run out comfortable winners.

Ciraldo, the most inexperienced NRL coach ever to win a finals game (in just his fifth game in charge), refused to look past this week’s clash against Cronulla, when asked about the team’s title chances.

“We’ve got to get through next week first and that’s going to be a tough game,” Ciraldo said.

“It’s going to have to take a big effort. We’re going to have to be better than tonight.

“We don’t think too far ahead. I just said to the boys we need to recover from this and get ready for the next game because it’s going to be a huge game.

“There’s no point talking three weeks ahead if we don’t get through next week.”

ISP minor premiers Penrith, are just one game away from back-to-back grand finals after withstanding a second-half Bulldogs fightback to run out 28-18 winners at Panthers Stadium and will now play third-placed Newtown this Saturday afternoon at Leichhardt Oval as they look to extend their 13 games unbeaten run for one more week.

For the Jets clash, Penrith have been boosted by the inclusion of Jack Hetherington, whom replaces Corey Harawira-Naera, but Corey Waddell will miss the preliminary final after he failed to have his contrary conduct charge downgraded to one week instead of two at the judiciary.

A win will see Penrith into the ISP grand final the following Sunday at the same venue against the winner of the St George-Illawarra v Canterbury Bulldogs preliminary final.

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Equally the Jersey Flegg side is also just one win away from a grand final appearance having knocked off second-placed Cronulla 18-10 at Panthers Stadium in a match where the Panthers could have easily won by a bigger margin such was their dominance for most of the game.

Their path to the Grand Final won’t be easy as they will face off against the minor premiers, Newcastle after they were surprisingly defeated by Mounties in week one of the finals.

As with the ISP side, the Panthers will play at Leichhardt Oval this Saturday from 3:15pm with the winner through to the grand final, the following week at the same venue against the winner of the Mounties v Cronulla Sharks clash, with live coverage provided via Hawkesbury Radio 89.9FM. The Panthers will go into this Friday night’s clash with Cronulla once again as the outsiders with the pundits, but it’s possibly their best chance of defeating Cronulla for the first time since 2015, having named the same 17 that defeated the Warriors last Saturday.

Penrith’s 21-man squad for the Sharks clash is as follows: 1. Dallin WATENE-ZELEZNIAK 2. Josh MANSOUR 3. Waqa BLAKE 4. Tyrone PEACHEY 5. Christian CRICHTON 6. James MALONEY 7. Nathan CLEARY 8. Trent MERRIN 9. Sione KATOA 10. Reagan CAMPBELL-GILLARD 11.

Viliame KIKAU 12. Isaah YEO 13. James FISHERHARRIS INTERCHANGE: 14. Tyrone MAY 15. Moses LEOTA 16. Corey HARAWIRA-NAERA 17. James TAMOU RESERVES: 18. Wayde EGAN 19. Jack HETHERINGTON 20. Kaide ELLIS 21. Tyrone PHILLIPS Should the Panthers defeat the Sharks, they will be one week away from a grand final appearance but would face a return trip to Melbourne to take on what will be a vastly stronger and well-rested Storm outfit to the one that was defeated less than a fortnight back by the Panthers.

Make your support count and show your #PantherPride at the finals.

29 29 Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

Repeat Sets

SPORT

Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

30

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PENRITH PANTHERS

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

PANTHER FANS GIVE ANZ STADIUM THE THUMBS DOWN Debate raged leading into and even after the conclusion of last Saturday’s home finals at ANZ Stadium regarding the venue’s use for Penrith’s home final, which attracted just over 17,000 fans.

A combination of events and scheduling restrictions around key venues meant that the Panthers home game against the NZ Warriors was moved from the Moore Park precinct, which was already hosting the Sydney Roosters-Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Swans-GWS Giants finals, to ANZ Stadium.

Penrith officials tried in vain to convince the NRL to play the game at the smaller Panthers Stadium where a 21,500 crowd would have made for a much better atmosphere than the vast spaces of ANZ Stadium.

With legal agreements in place regarding finals venues, it’s understandable why the NRL held firm as they have done with previous requests from other Sydney clubs.

What isn’t understandable however is the attitudes of many Panthers fans who decided not to attend because of the venue.

It was a risky position for fans to take especially when the Panthers with the home ground advantage, were facing possible week one elimination and needed all the support it could get.

Despite favourable transport and ticket options on offer, it was disappointing to see the attitudes many fans took on social media especially when fans of other clubs quite rightly would have loved to have that opportunity of watching their team live in the finals.

Given the more difficult logistics associated with this Friday night’s clash at Allianz Stadium as opposed to last Saturday night’s more favourable time and venue, it will be interesting to see how many Panther fans make the trek.

Plenty were applauding the Isaac Luke “tackle” on James Maloney as the hit of the season but how did Luke not only not get penalised for a dangerous throw given Maloney landed neck first into the turf let alone not charged by the Match Review Committee?

It explained why Maloney, who has been carrying a neck injury for some time, could not move his neck sideways after the game and was absent from the post-match press conference.

Maloney will play this Friday night against yet another former club Cronulla, (he could play

Over 17,000 fans turned up to ANZ Stadium for last Saturday’s “Home Final”. Credit: NRL Photos.

against four of his former clubs, this finals series) with the assistance of painkillers.

Yet another former Panther has taken aim at their former club and the area within which they once lived in, in the lead up to this Friday night’s final.

“It’s a good lifestyle here in Cronulla, the people are so lovely. It’s beautiful, especially on days like this. I’d rather be here than sitting somewhere out west,” former Panthers and now Sharks hooker James Segeyaro, told the media earlier this week.

It follows similar comments made by Luke Lewis before season’s start and adds more fuel to what is already expected to be a fiery affair with Matt Moylan also featuring against his former club.

He copped plenty of criticism after the Knights game and was promptly dropped the following week for Wayde Egan.

But since making his return to the side over the past fortnight, Panthers hooker Sione Katoa has been one of the team’s best, as he shares the hooking duties with Tyrone May. His selective darts out of dummy half have created two tries, while his kicking game takes the pressure off Maloney and Nathan Cleary.

Penrith will continue its revised preparations for its remaining finals games with loud music introduced at training sessions to replicate the gameday environment and to encourage players to use their voices more on the field.

The club will also continue to walk to its’ gameday venues, having first done so in their wins over the past fortnight.

Coach Cameron Ciraldo has had plenty of recent assistance too with Peter Wallace, Greg Alexander, Guy Missio and Ben Harden joined by the likes of former players David Simmons (outside backs), Scott Sattler (middles), Tony

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Puletua (edge forwards), Royce Simmons (hooker) at training.

Even 2003 premiership-winning half Craig Gower has popped in, while Darryl Halligan was seen fine-tuning Nathan Cleary’s goal-kicking after his off-night against the Storm where he kicked just one from six before returning to form with five from six last Saturday.

Don’t under estimate the impact newly-qualified blue shirt, Peter Wallace has had on the team’s reversal of fortunes in the past fortnight either, given his influence as skipper of the playing group, earlier this season.

Another aspect of Ciraldo’s coaching that appears to have differed from Anthony Griffin’s is that it would seem the former refused to take up the opportunity to invite the referees to Panthers’ training session and provide guidance on where it was all going wrong for the NRL’s number one most penalised and sin-binned team, according to Phil Gould AM on his weekly podcast.

Correspondence has also been high between Ciraldo and referees’ boss Bernard Sutton with questionable refereeing decisions raised in the wake of their games against the Warriors and the Storm, culminating with last week’s appearance of Gavin Reynolds and Gavin Badger at a Panthers’ training session.

It may have just worked last Saturday with the Panthers getting a better rub of the green from match officials Matt Cecchin and Henry Perenera.

Congratulations to Panthers fullback Caleb Aekins, named Intrust Super Premiership Player of the Year and Shawn Blore, named NSW Under 18s Rep Player of the Year at the Brad Fittler Medal awards night at the Star Event Centre.

As we go to print, Panthers back-rower Viliame KIkau has been nominated for the representative player of the year award, which will be announced at Tuesday night’s RLPA awards function.

Panthers back-rower Corey Harawira-Naera, has been granted an early release from his contract which ends at the end of the 2020 season, to take up a lucrative four-year deal with the Bulldogs, starting from next season. #PantherPride

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PENRITH PANTHERS

with MARK GEYER

“Cometh the hour, come the man”

 Auditions are over, Ciraldo is the man

O

r in the Penrith Panthers case, the Men! What a polished performance the mountain men delivered last Saturday night against the unpredictable NZ Warriors. And what a time to deliver.

Not only did Penrith evade elimination they have now set up a mouthwatering contest against the Cronulla Sharks this Friday at Allianz stadium, a game they will feel more than confident of winning.

I’ll get to individual performances in a sec, for there were some last Saturday night that just need mention.

But let me first give a great big slap on the back to rookie coach Cameron Ciraldo. I had the pleasure last week of interviewing him twice, once for the Rush Hour on radio, the other for ch7 news. On both occasions the impressive mentor left me with the feeling of confidence, confidence in his own ability, confidence in his playing group, and confidence in the process that if he takes this Panthers team deep into September (which in my eyes he already has) the first grade coaching job should be his for the next two seasons at least.

Players simply respond better to a coach they get, it’s as simple as that. No different to those in the work force who have a boss they love, productivity thrives.

 The only way is up

It’s apparent Ciraldo ‘has the dressing room’, and that means a LOT. In only his 5th game as a first grade coach he lead his chargers to one of their better performances of the season. The outside noise has gone silent again.

As for the players who played out of their skin, where do you start?

Dallin Watene- Zelezniak was great, Katoa played his best game in first grade, Kikau kicked butt, again, Cleary got his mojo back, the Peach was awesome, but the real X Man was James ‘Jimmy’ Maloney. Quite simply he just always delivers on the biggest of stages. I can’t think of another player who would have played on after the rib tickler he copped from Isaac Luke, but play on he did and his game management was supreme.

Bravo Panthers, they say semi final footy is indeed a reset of the previous 25 rounds just played, and after a tumultuous 5 weeks which has seen the Panthers dominating headlines for reasons they’d have rather not, a semi final statement winning performance has them hogging headlines for all the right reasons.

Bring on the Sharks!

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

31 31 Nepean News 13 September 2018 Issue 235

MG on the mark

SPORT

READY FOR SPRING 31 Muru Drive, Glenmore Park $729,000 - $779,000 4

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