Nepean News 14 June 2024 DIGITAL

Help is always available

PENRITH Council posted about cost of living challenges on social media. “The reality is that 1/3 of Australians are currently experiencing financial hardship and/or food insecurity.” If you or someone you know, is doing it tough, you can access help by:

• Visiting the National Debt Helpline website for step-by-step guides and useful information on how to manage specific types of debts or call 1800 007 007.

• The Australian Government’s Moneysmart website offers free tools, tips and guidance to help

you take control of your money and improve your financial wellbeing.

• Call the Mob Strong Debt helpline on 1800 808 488 for free legal advice about money matters for First Nations Peoples.

For services closer to home, you can always reach out to The Penrith Community Kitchen via their website or they are open Monday to Friday 11:30am-1:30pm for a meal.

For more information about our upcoming Mayoral Chairty Fundraiser, visit https://brnw. ch/21wKDFN

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BeyerGarrett 6029 thrills Heritage rail fans

BY

HERITAGE rail fans in the Penrith district were treated to a rare appearance of the Beyer-Garrett 6029 heritage steam locomotive on Friday, as it wound its way through the district headed to Bathurst for a Heritage Rail Weekend from 8-10 June.

Logan Spice Photography captured this spectacular photo of the Beyer-Garratt as it left Lithgow, bound for Bathurst.

The full history of the BeyerGarrett 6029 can be found on Wikipedia at: https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/6029 Phone for

Distribution Map

NOEL ROWSELL

Beyer Garrett 6029 outside Lithgow on its way to Bathurst - photo courtesy of Logan Spice Photography

Hawkesbury District Hospital

FROM the 1 July 2024, operation and management of Hawkesbury District Health Service will transition from St John of God Health Care to Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) and be known as Hawkesbury District Hospital.

The name acknowledges the organisation’s history and its strong community connections whilst also aligning with the naming conventions for NSW Health and NBMLHD hospitals.

Most importantly for patients and the

community, there will be no changes in services offered by the hospital from 1 July. It will continue to provide 24-hour emergency medicine, maternity care, allied health support plus a host of other services the community has come to love and expect.

Whilst in the coming weeks there will be some physical changes to things such as hospital signage and uniforms, the highest levels of patient care and the wonderful, welcoming spirit of the Hawkesbury will remain.

The continuity of safe and compassionate care is a focus for NBMLHD to ensure a smooth transition for patients and staff.

BY KERRIE DAVIES

RFS Volunteer Captain Fiona Stalgis receives King’s Birthday Honours

BRIGADE Captain Fiona

Stalgis (Winmalee) is one of eight members of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) who have been awarded Australian Fire Service Medals (AFSM), in recognition of their dedication and support of the community.

Commissioner of the RFS, Rob Rogers, said the AFSM was awarded as part of the King’s Birthday Honours List, for distinguished service by members of Australian fire services.

“This award symbolises our nation’s gratitude to these men and women for their service to our community. I am proud to see these dedicated

firefighters join our well-respected AFSM recipients.” Commissioner Rogers said.

“All eight recipients have held leadership roles within their Districts and have been nominated by their peers in recognition of their dedication and contribution.

“As mentors for the next generation of firefighters, these members have a wealth of experience responding to emergencies and their years of service are greatly appreciated by their colleagues and local communities.

Fiona joined Winmalee Brigade in 1991 and has held numerous field and administration positions over

her 33 years of service, including Deputy Captain, Senior Deputy Captain and Captain. Additionally, Fiona was previously a member of the Blue Mountains Group Support Brigade (formerly the Blue Mountains Communications Brigade).

During the Black Summer bush fires of 2019/20, Fiona was appointed Deputy Group Captain, a position she maintained until 2021. During this time, she was involved both operationally and non-operationally with multiple brigades, particularly the west group of brigades within the District, providing leadership, guidance and support.

Funding announced for Community Building Partnership projects in Penrith

THE electorate of Penrith has secured $295,143.00 in funding for a total of nine projects through the NSW Government’s 2023 Community Building Partnership Program.

“The State Government funds will deliver much-needed improvements to local facilities including Emu Plains Community Baptist Church, Our Lady of the Way Catholic Parish Emu Plains, Emu Heights Public School, and Leonay Public School. Improvements will include an outdoor playground, outdoor kitchen recreational facilities, canteen refurbishment, and kitchen service facilities in a community sharing space,” Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said.

“This is fantastic news for Penrith.

“This grassroots funding will directly help create a more vibrant and inclusive local community with positive social, environmental and recreational

outcomes,” Karen McKeown OAM said.

“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference for community groups in the area.”

The successful project grants amounts provided were:

• Emu Plains Community Baptist Church - $13,900

• Our Lady of the Way Catholic Parish Emu Plains - $20,000

• Emu Heights Public School P & C Association - $27,500

• Leonay Public School P & C Association - $54,360

The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 19,700 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

For more information, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbp.

Housing right place, right time

DEBATE in the public arena on housing targets and the ability to deliver housing in the most appropriate locations is nothing new. Those discussions have long been a feature of Penrith City Council’s strategic and evidence-based approach to increasing housing supply, especially in St Marys which has been identified as one of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) sites.

Penrith Council has been engaging with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) to plan the future of the city and

welcomes the continued ability to do so in a localised, nuanced place-based approach that will deliver high-quality housing, community amenities and infrastructure outcomes.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Council’s strong strategic platform has been prepared, to plan for the future needs of the city and address the critical issue of housing.

“Council has been working with the department on responding to the challenges of the TOD and low/midrise housing policies,” Cr Carney said.

“We appreciate the efforts taken by

DPHI in recognising the work we have done, and welcome the deferral by the department for Council to continue its work in this space.

“Council is excited about the future of St Marys, and want to continue to work with the Government on issues such as flooding in the Penrith CBD, timely infrastructure delivery and funding – which are important to achieve not only housing supply, but also jobs and great community amenity.”

With an existing pipeline of housing, Council is continuing to undertake

extensive strategic work to inform this growth and is working to ensure this pipeline responds to the need for additional growth in the right locations, at the right time.

Critical to that growth is infrastructure. Council is committed to working with the NSW Government on setting evidencebased and infrastructure-supported housing targets while improving the identification, coordination and delivery of infrastructure with state and federal government.

Brigade Captain Fiona Stalgis

Paramedic training program improving maternity care in the community

MORE than 200 paramedics have boosted their skills in delivering emergency maternity care in the community, after completing a maternity training program developed by Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) and NSW Ambulance.

The program pairs paramedics with midwives for a full day’s placement at Nepean Hospital’s Birth Unit to support paramedics to manage out-of-hospital birthing and maternal emergencies, by offering interprofessional education and clinical placement support.

A typical day of activities in the program sees paramedics assist in all types of birth scenarios, including vaginal births (including water births) and emergency caesareans, as well as how to provide care during obstetric emergencies such as shoulder dystocia.

Nepean Hospital Divisional Manager of Women and Children’s Health and midwife, Kerry Tosswill, said the program is a great opportunity for these two highly skilled professional groups to come together to learn and share knowledge to improve patient care.

“For midwives, provision of labour and birth care are day to day experiences, but paramedics experience labour and birth less often in the community. When they do,

the births are often unexpected and may sometimes be emergencies,” Ms Tosswill said.

“The training program enables paramedics to provide care throughout labour, birth and early postnatal period. Midwives are able to share their expert knowledge to help paramedics further develop their skills to provide care during birth in the community, and this includes in the event of an obstetric emergency.

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive

Dr Dominic Morgan said this partnership with Nepean Hospital will further optimise maternity care in the local community.

“This is a great example of highly skilled paramedics working collaboratively with hospital maternity clinicians to share their skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to women and their babies,” Dr Morgan said.

NSW Ambulance Paramedic, Tim Timmer, has completed the training program and already applied skills learnt from his experience working with the hospital midwives.

“You develop a heightened confidence and when you apply that out in the field you can systematically go step by step knowing that you’ve seen this before, you know what happens next and this is what I need to do,” Tim said.

Lifeblood’s new system allows people to track blood supplies

IN an Australian-first, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s blood supply levels are now available to view in real-time in the hope it will encourage more people to donate more often.

Research by the nation’s blood service found that 75% of Australians say they would donate blood if they knew their blood type was needed.

Launching to coincide with National Blood Donor Week, the Lifeblood Blood Supply Update, which is updated daily, displays blood supply levels for each blood type. You can sort Australia-wide or by state.

The Lifeblood Blood Supply Update represents the number of bags (units) of donated red blood cells of that blood type that Lifeblood holds after supplying hospitals.

“We hope that by having up-to-date information about how much blood is held by Lifeblood, it will motivate more people to come in and donate, especially when their blood type is needed or running low,” Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone said.

At all times, Lifeblood needs to keep enough red cell units stocked and ready to meet expected demand. These levels go up and down based on how many units of each blood type is sent to hospitals and how many donors of

that type have given blood recently.

Blood types marked ‘very low’ means we need you to book a donation now; ‘low’ means more donors are needed; ‘need more’ means Lifeblood needs people to donate in the next five days; ‘Ok’ means that blood donations are still needed of that blood type; and ‘good’ means you should consider donating plasma if you can, or give blood to keep supplies at a good level.

May through to September are the months when blood supply levels are most likely to drop to ‘very low’.

“We’d love to see people keeping a regular eye on our blood supplies and making an appointment when their blood type is needed, especially during the colder months,” Cath said.

Lifeblood research reveals that two in five Australians don’t know their blood type or are unsure of which blood type they have.

“If you don’t know your blood type, donating blood is a great way to find out. Please make an appointment,

because no matter what blood type you are, every donation you give can save up to three lives,” Cath added.

A blood donation is needed every 18 seconds in Australia for cancer patients, people living with blood disorders, for surgery, and women giving birth.

While the Lifeblood Blood Supply Update only displays red cell levels, Lifeblood also needs plasma and platelet donations of all types every day.

You can book a donation by calling 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood. com.au or on the DonateBlood app. Keep an eye on Lifeblood’s blood supplies by visiting: Lifeblood Blood Supply Update at www.lifeblood.com. au/blood/blood-supply-levels

Everyone who donates during National Blood Donor Week and until July 14 will receive a limited-edition bandage designed by Indigenous Australian artist Aretha Brown.

First Nations peoples given best start to life at NBMLHD

NEW research has confirmed Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) is making significant strides in Closing the Gap, as more and more First Nations women and children experience positive maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

First Nations peoples make up approximately 4.7% of the NBMLHD population, the highest percentage of First Nations peoples across all NSW metropolitan health districts.

A Nepean Hospital led study examined birth and healthdetermining characteristics of 470 First Nations infants born at the Hospital, alongside their mother’s pregnancy and birth outcomes.

Clinical Associate Professor Dr Habib Bhurawala, one of the lead researchers on the study, says results showed that despite challenges facing First Nations mothers and infants, there was no significant difference in maternal morbidity or adverse birth outcomes for First Nations infants in comparison to non-First Nations groups.

“We found that First Nations mothers did not have an increased risk of maternal morbidity nor any difference in rates of caesarean section, resuscitation at birth,

NICU admission, preterm birth or birthweight,” says Habib, who is also Head of Paediatrics at Nepean Hospital.

“However, there is still more that can be done to address the immense challenges faced by First Nations parents during pregnancy. These women are still more likely to face socioeconomic disadvantage, teenage pregnancies, psychosocial issues, smoking, drug and alcohol use, and mental illness.”

Results from the research do not underscore the importance of providing culturally specific health services to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

NBMLHD Director of Aboriginal Health, Rachel Scobie says improved access to culturally appropriate health programs is helping communities engage more with health services across the District.

“The District places a lot of

emphasis on consumer-led feedback to enhance their health programs. We’re empowering Aboriginal communities to shape how they want services delivered so that they can feel safe and assured in knowing that health professionals can be trusted to improve their health outcomes,” says Rachel.

“This study highlights the importance of the continuation and expansion of First Nations-specific programs in NBMLHD to be able to support women and children through the antenatal period and infancy.”

NBMLHD offers a range of Aboriginal maternity care programs ( www.nsw.gov.au/departmentsand-agencies/nbmlhd/services/ aboriginal-health) to help women and their families feel safe during their journey from pregnancy, child birth and beyond including:

• Aboriginal Caseload Midwifery

• Aboriginal Maternal Infant Health Service (AMIHS)

• Aboriginal outreach clinic

• Mudang Mudjin (Building Strong Foundations service)

Full findings of the research can be found on the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health website at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/ doi/10.1111/jpc.16535

Clinical Associate Professor Dr Habib Bhurawala

NBMLHD Director of Aboriginal Health, Rachel Scobie

Bygone Beautys Annual Fundraising Dinner delivers care, compassion and hope to those living with cancer

THURSDAY night, 30th May, Leura’s Bygone Beautys hosted their annual Fundraising Dinner at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School. A resounding success, all funds raised will be generously donated to local, self-funded charity, Cancer Wellness Support.

A night of connections, fundraising and pure community with a purpose, with it being a sell-out week in advance, and donations given by those that could not attend.

Over 80 guests attended the night and enjoyed pre dinner drinks and canapes, a three-course menu, guest talks, and an entertaining live and silent auction.

Each year, proprietors of Bygone Beautys Maurice G Cooper OAM and Kerry McKenzie invites business and community leaders to gather for a worthy cause. All event ticket sales, auction proceeds and donations go directly to local, self-funded Cancer Wellness Support who have provided affordable cancer care for individuals and their families living with cancer in the local community since 2005.

This year, the event raised over $19,000. This contribution will enable Cancer Wellness Support to continue to offer subsidised therapies, purchase specialised equipment and relieve the cost-of-living pressures when

navigating a cancer journey.

Cancer Wellness Support operates from the Penrith Wellness Centre and the Robyn Yates Centre, named after the organisation’s founder, in Leura.

With over 40 fully trained therapists, Cancer Wellness Support provides a range of subsidised therapies such as counselling, oncology massage, lymphoedema management, reflexology, expressive arts therapy, reiki, meditation as well as facilitated support groups for client members and their families/carers.

With most funding coming through the organisation’s much-loved Blue Mountains and Penrith Op Shops, the organisation also relies on the generosity of its volunteers, sponsors, and donors to continue providing accessible and affordable therapies, in challenging circumstances.

Cancer Wellness Support Board

Chair, Ilse Blignault spoke of the organisation’s long running relationship with Bygone Beautys and how important it is to have the support of the community.

“Our relationship with Bygone Beautys goes beyond sponsorship. This long running relationship is a unique meeting of minds, a sharing of vision, commitment and dedication to community service. This event provides an opportunity for business and community to join for the common cause of bringing much needed, affordable therapies to those suffering the side effects of medical cancer treatments. On behalf of the Board, I offer thanks to Maurice G Cooper OAM, and Kerry McKenzie proprietors of Bygone Beautys for their unwavering support and generosity.”

Cancer Wellness Support CEO, Deborah Shepherd noted that the

complementary therapies on offer are all evidence-based and growing evidence on the multitude of benefits for both the individual navigating cancer, and their support network. Yet, a recent study cited that financial constraints were a major obstacle, approximately 84% and 50% it was the only constraints Community support such as the annual Bygone Beautys fundraising dinner assists Cancer Wellness Support o continue to offer affordable therapy sessions.

“A cancer diagnosis often puts additional financial pressures on families, and we do not believe that anyone should be prevented from accessing important support based on financial constraints.

This is community in action and enables us to not only assist an individual but to acknowledge the role of the carer and ensuring the support network is strong.

I would like to thank Bygone Beautys, their team and the community who came together and generously raised funds, with genuine care and regard for our purpose.”

It was a marvellous community event with so many kind-hearted people, says Maurice.

If you would like to enquire about Cancer Wellness Support’s therapies and services, please phone 4784 2297 or visit www.cancersupport.org.au

Funding boost to improve child health and wellbeing outcomes

3,600 MORE children will be able to access public allied health services each year as part of the the Government’s $40 million Family Start Package to deliver the essential health services our communities deserve, as part of th 2024-25 NSW Budget.

$20 million from the fundwill boost the public paediatric allied health workforce with an additional 32 staff.

Our health system faces significant challenges, but the NSW Government is making the diligent decision to boost child health assessments and early intervention services.

This will reduce waitlists and improve access to much needed diagnosis and therapy for children across NSW, including those in rural and remote communities.

The Minns Labor Government is also investing $2.3 million funding over four years to support Royal Far West (RFS). This will enable RFS to continue to work in partnership with NSW Health to provide a specialist, multidisciplinary health and wellbeing service for children with complex developmental concerns who live outside the greater metropolitan areas of NSW and cannot access these services locally.

This boost to allied health and early intervention services delivers on the Government’s commitment to supporting families.

This budget cares for NSW, ensuring we have the essential services the people of NSW rely on, so that every family can access the quality health care they need.

“Timely access to paediatric allied health services for children with developmental vulnerabilities

is shown to improve their educational, social, employment and economic outcomes later in life,” said NSW Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park.

“This investment is a step towards improving developmental outcomes, school participation and

academic performance of children across NSW. “We’re ensuring children and their families can access health services closer to home and when they need them, improving their health, development, and overall wellbeing.”

Suzie and Matthew Gale Maurice Cooper OAM

Death of Percy Fulton

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

PERCY Claude Fulton passed away at the Nepean Cottage Hospital after a short illness of about three weeks in November 1912. He was the fifth son of William Charles (snr) & Annie Butler Chisholm. Percy was born in Penrith in February 1872. His father William was born at Castlereagh in November 1832 and married Annie at Sofala in July 1860. He was an Alderman of Penrith Council but had to retire owing to an affection of the eyes. He died in 1902 aged 69. His funeral was the largest seen in the district for many years, with friends coming from every part of the district, as well as from the metropolis and suburbs. His remains were encased in a polished cedar silver-mounted coffin and buried at St Stephens Anglican Church, Penrith. He was the son of John Walker Fulton & Elizabeth Cartwright and the grandson of Reverend Henry James Fulton and Ann Walker. His father John was born on Norfolk Island in 1803 and died in 1850 at Castlereagh. His mother Elizabeth was born in 1804 in Cheshire, England and died at Castlereagh in 1890. The family were enterprising storekeepers carrying on a large business in Penrith and elsewhere. Percy’s brother William (Jnr) had a store in High Street in 1878 that was next to where his father William’s (snr) store at Cumberland House. Next door to him was Peter Smeaton’s boot and shoe store then Mr A Laing’s baker’s shop. Percy was a watchmaker and jeweller by trade and for years carried on that business successfully occupying part of the Emporium building. In August 1895 an advertisement in the Nepean Times read “Percy Fulton, Watchmaker and Jeweller, High Street, Penrith. (Next Door To Post-Office.) Watches, Clocks, Jewellery Etc., Repaired. Also, a Good Stock of Jewellery Always on Hand”. He also turned his attention to other matters. Percy had a great love of sport and at one time was considered a good cricketer, and his kindly disposition and sympathy towards others won him

hosts of friends. When the news of his death at the early age of 40 years became known, extensive regret was felt and sympathy with his death was faithfully forwarded from all quarters far and near. Percy remained unmarried and leaves to mourn his loss is a mother and five siblings, William, Edgar, Clarrie (Penrith), Ernest (Wellington) and Austin (Carroll) about 20 miles out of Gundagai and one sister Mrs Steel (Sydney). Over five hundred persons in all, relatives and friends out of respect for the historic family of Fulton attended the funeral on Sunday afternoon last. Among the immense following familiar faces were recognised from the outlying districts of Luddenham, Mulgoa, Castlereagh, Emu and other parts and nearly all the prominent men of Penrith and St Marys. The cortege left the residence of Mrs Fulton (snr) in High Street a little after 4 o’clock. First the hearse with its dead occupant almost hidden with wreaths, then the mourning coaches carrying the mourners followed by hundreds of sympathising friends mentioned. As they neared the old church on the hill, the solemn tolling of its bell was the only sound that broke the silence crossing the overhead bridge and turning into the straight road to the cemetery, the funeral procession with its whole length crept on silently until the hearse reached the entrance into the Penrith General Cemetery at Kingswood NSW. The coffin containing the body of Percy was borne to the grave by his three brothers, Edgar, Ernest and Clarrie and his nephew W Dickenson. Mrs John Price and Son were trusted with the arrangement of the funeral. Photo of grave courtesy of Find a Grave website.

Sources- Nepean Times Advertisement 24th August 1895, 16 November 1912, 8th August 1836, Australian Royalty online, Ancestry.

Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.

Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor. We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

 Photo of grave courtesy of Find a Grave website.

Yes Way Jose! Indian-Mexican Cuisine Opens at Manufactor

MANUFACTOR is thrilled

to announce the launch of the No Way Jose IndianMexican food truck at its Penrith site ahead of a permanent restaurant opening later this year. With its innovative cuisine mashup, No Way Jose adds a new flavour to the lineup of cult F&B offerings already on site at Manufactor, and brings a fresh and exciting culinary experience to the Western Sydney community.

Manufactor, located at the historic Crane Enfield Metals building in Penrith, has quickly become a hub for innovation, manufacturing, and delicious food. Launched by local businessman John Joannou, Manufactor has breathed new life into a previously dormant industrial site with a vision to make Penrith a vibrant hub and manufacturing epicentre for the state.

No Way Jose was born from a flavour fusion envisioned by Ravi Singh, coowner of Little Birria Mascot, after his mother suggested adding Indian flavours to Mexican dishes. This idea has resulting in signature menu items such as tacos with Paneer (Indian

cottage cheese) and the popular Dirty Nachos topped with soya keema.

Initially launched as a food truck to test the market, No Way Jose received an overwhelmingly positive response,

filling a unique gap in Sydney’s food scene by offering Indian-Mexican fusion with a wide variety of vegetarian options. Culinary experts Ravi, the owner, and Sai, the head

chef, bring a wealth of experience to No Way Jose, with Sai boasting over 18 years of culinary expertise, trained in India and has worked at Dum Pukht, one of the world’s top 100 restaurants. Meanwhile, Ravi brings a strong background in hospitality since 2006, having collaborated with renowned chefs like Jock Zonfrillo and also coowns Little Birria Mascot.

In the lead-up to the opening of its permanent venue at Manufactor, the No Way Jose food truck will be stationed outside Drink West Brewery every Sunday for the coming months, bringing its fusion flavours to the Western Sydney community. When the permanent venue opens at Manufactor, No Way Jose plans to celebrate with a special new menu and exciting promotions, details of which will be announced closer to the opening date.

Manufactor is located at 2115-2131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith, NSW 2750. To learn more visit https:// manufactor.com.au/

To learn more about No Way Jose visit www.instagram.com/ nowayjosesydney/

Award-winning Australian children’s singer, Emily Who returns to the joan with new, accessible concerts

JOIN renowned Australian children’s singer, Emily Who (Winner of two of The What’s On 4 Kids Awards 2023 – ‘Judged’ and ‘People’s Choice’) for her new, interactive and inclusive children’s concert, A Day for Adventure at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 21 – 22 June.

Jam-packed full of catchy songs and fun, Emily will spark imaginations and have you moving and grooving as she takes you on a journey under the sea, to a farm, to the jungle, and even back in time to dance with the dinosaurs!

These shows will be presented as relaxed performances and will be Auslan interpreted, making them accessible to the broader community.

Relaxed performances are designed to reduce anxiety and create a supportive atmosphere for patrons with autism spectrum conditions, intellectual impairment, learning disability and other sensory and communication needs. There is a relaxed attitude to traditional theatre etiquette, such as noise and movement amongst the audience. Other elements include the doors to the theatre being left open to allow audience members to enter and exit as needed and light and sound

effects being toned down or removed.

An Auslan interpreter will interpret the spoken words and sound effects of the performances, enabling deaf patrons who use Auslan to engage with the concert.

Gather your friends and family and plan an exciting day out to the theatre now!

ABOUT EMILY WHO

Emily Who recently released her fourth studio album for preschoolers and is best known for her annual

children’s performances with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Kur-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra.

Regularly performing in festivals, including, the Sydney Fringe Festival and Riverside Theatres’ Spot On Children’s Festival, last year, Emily also performed with Bluey and Paw Patrol at Sydney Zoo and was nominated for ‘Best Kids Show’ at the Sydney Fringe Festival.

She is also the creator of two webseries, including, the Kids Couch

Concert Series and Musical Pirate Adventures, on which she collaborated with Arcadia Winds.

Emily volunteers for Storyville and Books In Homes, regularly reading stories for young children.

CAST & CREATIVE TEAM

Emily Who: Emily McKnight Stage Manager: Christopher Starnawski

Emily Who Team: Peter Bailey, Robin Gist and Edward McKnight Set and Costume Designers: Lucy-Rose Tyler and Sarah Tyler Choreographer: Phoebe Fuller

KEY DETAILS

Dates & Times: Friday 21 June at 10am & 12:30pm.

Saturday 22 June at 10am.

Accessibility: All concerts will be presented as relaxed performances and will be Auslan interpreted. Suitable for: Ages 0 – 5 and their families.

Duration: 45 minutes (No interval). Venue: Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith.

Ticket Prices: Standard $20, Family of Four Pass $70. A fee of $5 applies to all bookings.

For more information and bookings please visit: www.thejoan.com. au/events/emily-who-a-day-foradventure/

Australia’s Premier Comedy Roadshow heads to Penrith for one night only!

AUSTRALIA’S biggest and best comedy spectacular is setting off on its 26th annual road trip to bring the finest talents from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2024 to the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith on Tuesday 18 June at 7:30pm.

Featuring a stellar line-up of beloved comedy royalty alongside some of the freshest sensations, get ready for a hilarious night full of sketch, stand-up, satire, silliness and song.

The full line-up for this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow in Penrith includes:

• Justin Hamilton – This year’s host has carved out an incredibly successful stand-up comedian, writer and stage director. Over the past 29 years he has received numerous accolades and awards including the Arts Monthly’s Comedian of the Decade in 2011, Director’s Choice Award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2007, Best Comedy Show at the Adelaide Fringe 2019 and 2023. Most recently he has been working as the key writer for Rove’s 2DayFM Breakfast show, Rove & Sam.

• Lewis Garnham – One of the most distinctive and exciting new voices on the Australian comedy scene, Lewis captivates audiences around the country with his potent combination of laconic, intelligent and introspective comedy. Nominee for the Best Newcomer Award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2018 and Best Comedy at FRINGE WORLD Perth 2018, Lewis makes regular appearances on Triple J, Triple M and ABC Radio and hosts the podcast, Can I Borrow Your Mind.

• Takashi Wakasugi – Moving from Japan to Australia in 2018, Takashi began his comedy career in earnest and was picked as a performer for Comedy Zone Asian at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2018. His fresh insights into everyday life in Japan and perspectives on Aussie life will have you roaring with laughter. Takashi has performed on ABC TV’s Tonightly with Tom Ballard and Comedy Up Late.

• Alexandra Hudson – Since her comedy debut in 2020, Alexandra has gone on to take out numerous awards including joint first place in the National Final of the Raw Comedy Competition at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2022. Alexandra entwines entertaining musings about her experiences as a disabled woman and her observations about the mostly foreign non-disabled world she lives in into her sketches.

• Maddy Weeks – An award-winning comedian and nominee for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2024 Best Newcomer Award,

ORCHARD HILLS

Maddy has been described by the ABC as having ‘bucketloads of joy and energy on stage’ and is fast becoming one of the most captivating acts on the Australian stand-up scene.

Gather your pals, secure your tickets, and get ready for a well-deserved blast of comedy when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow brings the best comedic talent to town!

‘We were laughing from the moment the lights went down … well into the drive home.’ Scenestr LINE-UP

Justin Hamilton – Host

Lewis Garnham – Comedian

Takashi Wakasugi – Comedian

Alexandra Hudson – Comedian

Maddy Weeks – Comedian

KEY DETAILS

Date & Time: Tuesday 18 June at 7:30pm.

Duration: 135 minutes (including 20-minute interval)

Venue: Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith.

Ticket Prices: Standard $45, Concession $40, 35 & Under $30. A fee of $5 applies to all bookings. The Joan Members are eligible for a 15% discount on tickets.

Audience Information: Recommended for ages 15+. This show contains coarse language, adult themes, sexual references and materials that may offend. Smoke machine/hazer may be used during this performance.

For more information and bookings please visit: www.thejoan.com.au/events/micrf-24/

Decoding your cat’s body language

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

DECODING your cat’s body language is a fascinating and essential skill for every cat owner. Our feline friends use a unique blend of body movements and vocalisations to express their feelings and needs. By learning to interpret these signals, you can better understand and fulfill your cat’s desires and ensure their well-being.

When deciphering cat body language, it’s crucial to consider the context. Pay attention to the environment and what might be affecting your cat’s emotions. For instance, a cat cornered by a person might feel scared or threatened, while

a seemingly upset cat with no apparent cause might be experiencing pain or illness. Each cat is unique, and their signals can vary slightly based on their personality and past experiences.

Tail Signals: The tail is one of the most expressive parts of a cat’s body. A high, upright tail often signals that your cat is feeling confident and friendly. If the tail is quivering, it’s a sign of excitement or greeting. Conversely, a low or tucked tail can indicate fear or submission. A puffed-up tail typically means the cat is startled or feels threatened, while a swishing or twitching tail often signals irritation or agitation.

Ear Positions: Ears are another clear indicator of a cat’s emotions. Forward-facing ears suggest curiosity and attentiveness, while ears that are flattened against the head may indicate fear, aggression, or extreme annoyance. Ears that rotate backward and sideways, often referred to as “airplane ears,” can signal that your cat is feeling threatened or ready to defend itself.

Eye Movements: Cats’ eyes convey

a lot about their emotional state. Slow blinking is a sign of trust and affection; it’s a cat’s way of showing that they feel safe and comfortable around you. Direct, unblinking stares, however, can be a sign of dominance or aggression. Dilated pupils can indicate excitement or fear, depending on the context, whilst constricted pupils may signal anger or intense focus.

Body Posture: A relaxed cat will lie on its side or back, with its belly exposed, indicating trust and contentment. A cat that crouches low to the ground with tense muscles is likely scared or preparing to defend itself. Arching the back, combined with fur standing on end, is a defensive posture intended to make the cat appear larger and more threatening to potential dangers.

mean anything from a greeting to a demand for food or attention. Hissing, growling, or yowling are clear signs of distress, fear, or aggression.

Vocalisations: Cats also use a variety of sounds to communicate. A gentle purr often signifies contentment, though cats may also purr when they are in pain or anxious as a selfsoothing mechanism. Meowing is typically directed at humans and can

By paying close attention to these non-verbal cues, you can enhance your communication with your cat, ensuring they feel understood and secure. This deeper understanding can help prevent misunderstandings and create a more harmonious relationship between you and your feline companion.

For assistance with your pets, please phone our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on (02) 4736 2027.

Federal Budget breakdown

IF I had to summarise the budget in a word, it would be ‘OK’. These are the key points.

The federal budget will provide cost of living relief through tax cuts on 1 July, lower power bills, higher welfare payments, and relief for small businesses. In short, the government is trying to fix the things they messed up in the first place through an overaccommodative, then over-restrictive monetary policy and an enormous immigration intake. Having said that, it’s way better than the alternative.

How it affects investors largely depends on whether the budget is inflationary or deflationary and how it affects interest rates. Of course, the Labor government will do its best to secure a rate cut before the election to give them the best chance of getting re-elected.

Let’s look at these one at a time.

On the cost-of-living front, there’s a $300 energy bill subsidy and a $325 rebate for small businesses. Although small, it does help a little, given that energy prices have increased about 30 percent over the past year. More importantly, they should reduce the energy inflation rate by half a percentage point.

There are also some cuts to HECS debts (around $3bn based on the 2023 indexation). The exact amount is yet to be determined, but it is based on a formula that includes how much accommodation each university provides to students.

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

“BATTERIES are way to expensive”, “I’ll wait until they’re cheaper”.

These are a couple of common responses that I hear when discussing batteries with clients.

As I pointed out in previous articles, the shift in how we use electricity, how we now get charged exorbitant

The cost of PBS medicines (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) has also been frozen. The copayment amount that must be contributed to the cost of PBS subsidised medicines will be frozen at $7.70 for pensioners and concession card holders until the end of 2029 and at $31.60 for all other Medicare card holders until the end of 2025.

Next, stage three tax cuts take place starting on the 1st of July. Any form of tax relief is welcome, and it does go some way towards fixing the rising cost of living. The change is likely minimal for property investors – it spreads some of the tax returns you would have received at the end of the year throughout your weekly salary. All of which helps to manage your cashflows.

under $20k for a further 12 months until June 30, 2025.

On the social security and aged care front, deeming rates will stay frozen for the remainder of the financial year. These assess income from financial investments likely to benefit age pensioners and other income support recipients.

Rent support will increase. On September 20th, the maximum Commonwealth Rent Assistance payment will increase by 10 percent (in addition to the usual half-yearly indexation). This will benefit the elderly and those requiring some government assistance.

Overall, the budget is likely neutral regarding its effect on inflation and unlikely to affect the RBA’s decisions.

Regarding the inflation outlook, it was interesting that the treasury expects inflation to fall much faster than the RBA, with headline inflation expected to return to 2.75 percent by the middle of next year. This is likely because of the subsidies on rent and energy inflation. Overall, our view on the interest rate situation hasn’t changed, and we still expect interest rates to fall in the second half of the year.

Small businesses with an annual turnover of less than $10m will also get tax relief through an instant asset write-off extension This will allow an immediate write-off for eligible assets

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

This information is of a general nature, and you need to take all your own circumstances into consideration before making any commitments.

Jim’s Gems

rates for buying and how the retailers give us a pittance for our excess Solar during the day, but what can we do about it?

If you have Solar installed and see the F.I.T (feed in tariff) credit on your electricity bill, that is not an indication of what your Solar has generated, but rather what your Solar System has generated, and you have not used.

Think of it as excess Solar or wasted energy.

You pay for a Solar System, get the benefit of cheap power during the day, sell the excess at 5-cents and they then sell it back to you at night at 40-cents!

So, you think about a battery system, but you hear they’re all too dear.

Well let me tell you, there are several affordable options around,

good quality, reliable, all with long warranties. These can be installed for under $10k and you can even set them up with wholesale electricity retailers, like Amber for instance and earn up to $17.00/kWhr at certain times when the wholesale electricity price spikes and recharging your battery from the grid when prices are very low, even negative at times!

There are many other benefits to having a battery such as grid outage protection and keeping those necessary appliances such as fridges and lights powered when the grid fails. With payback periods reduced to well below the warranty periods and power prices continuing to rise in the future, now might be just the time to revisit a look into battery storage for your home.

Untill next time, think about how storage may work for you.

If you have a question about your system or a question in general regarding Solar or Solar battery storage and you would like to learn more, please email me info@ nepeansolar.com.au or call our office on 0247 600809.

WITH STEVE BEARD Select Mortgage Broker

Olympic history beckons for Melissa Wu

FOUR-TIME

Olympian Melissa Wu has been crowned the Women’s 10-Metre Platform Australian Champion at the Australian Open Championships, which were held in Adelaide over the King’s Birthday long weekend.

The result paves the way for Melissa, who was born in Penrith, to be nominated for Australian Paris 2024 Olympic Games Team selection, which would make her the first diver to represent Australia at five Olympics.

The hotly-contested event saw the 32 year old battle it out with 17-year old Ellie Cole (NSW) and 27-year old Emily Meaney (QLD) for the title.

Following the event, Melissa was still processing the enormity, not just of the result but what it will mean.

“I’m feeling relieved that the competition is over, I really enjoyed competing here in this pool,” said Melissa.

“I had a lot of nerves heading into this event, I always get super nervous when I compete and have done so from a young age, but I think all the work

I’ve put in over the years with the mindset and experiences I’ve had, I’ve learnt to deal with that a little better now.

“It was really awesome to dive with the younger divers of the next generation and see them come through. I’m proud to have actually taught a few of them how to dive, as their first coach, so having the opportunity to dive alongside them is pretty cool.

“To know that Olympic selection is a real possibility is a really incredible feeling and looking back now on my

career, I can appreciate the gravity of what this competition means.

“It hasn’t been something I’ve focused on, trying to become the first Australian diver to go to five Olympic Games, as I am pretty process driven. But looking at everything I’ve overcome to compete at this competition is pretty amazing, I’m pretty proud of myself.”

Diving Australia’s Performance Director Steve Foley said the achievement would have a positive impact for diving in Australia.

“I think Melissa summed up her

results best herself. She had a tough preparation with injuries but how resilient is this athlete to not just get the job done but really put on a show,” said Foley.

“We have a plethora of young athletes competing in the platform events now and there’s no question that’s the positive impact Mel has had on diving in Australia.

“The fact she can now be nominated to attend her fifth Olympic Games is just inspiring for everyone on our Diving Australia roster, I am in awe of her.”

Panthers face tough double-header Round 10 in NBL1 East

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Panthers senior men’s and women’s basketball teams face another imposing double-header of games at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC) this weekend, in Round 10 of the 2024 NBL1 East Basketball competition.

Saturday night will see the Panthers host the Maitland Mustangs (women 5.30pm, men 7.30pm) and a split result is a likely outcome, following the results between the respective teams in

Round 7 of the competition.

On that night, the 14-placed Penrith women turned in one of their most inspiring efforts this season, overcoming the loss of three key players in the final quarter to snatch a thrilling 1-point win (69-68) over the 12th-placed Mustangs in Maitland.

The 15th-placed Penrith men were however overwhelmed on the night, falling 110-73 to the 2nd-placed Mustangs.

Sunday will see the Panthers host the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, in the first encounter between the two

clubs this season.

The Sea Eagles women’s team is currently riding high on the competition ladder, sitting in 4th place with an impressive 9-2 win-loss record. The team is currently averaging 82 points per game (Panthers 68) and conceding 63 ppg (Panthers 84).

Penrith’s success on both nights will primarily rest in the hands of the starting five, with an emphasis on Tahlia Tupaea, Mia Heide and Chloe Williams. Tahlia is currently ranked 4th in the NBL1 East Women’s division for Points Per Game, whilst

Mia is ranked 2nd for Total Rebounds and 3rd for Blocked Shots.

The Sea Eagles men are also currently in 4th spot in the Men’s division, whilst the Panthers are languishing back in 15th spot. The Panthers have shared the scoring highlights around several players this season but the leaders in the categories are Ben Kearins (PPG and Assists) and Joshua Kalwy (Total Rebounds and Blocked Shots).

Sunday’s games against the Sea Eagles are also at the PVRSC, with the women at 1pm and the men at 3pm.

(L-R) Ellie Cole, Melissa Wu, Emily Meaney. Right: Melissa Wu. Photos courtesy of Get Snapt / Diving Australia

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Action from this year’s NBL1 East basketball competition. (L-R):Mia Heide, Tahlia Tupaea, Joshua Kalwy and Ben Kearins. Photos by Noel Rowsell

HSRCA’s Sydney Classic attracts large fields

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2024 Historic Sport & Race Car Association (HSRCA) Sydney Classic enjoyed a magic weekend of historic motor racing over the King’s Birthday long weekend, with idyllic weather conditions bringing out the fans.

The weekend featured the biggest collection of historic race and sports cars at Sydney Motorsport Park in nearly five years of action at the circuit.

More than 200 classic, historic and vintage race cars took to the track across two packed days of Motorsport. The race meeting featured events for all historic categories and include a special celebration of Bob Britton’s Rennmax cars.

HQ Racing NSW was also featured over the weekend, taking part in an HSRCA race meeting for the first time, whilst Group N contested an endurance race before lunch on Sunday.

The full list of categories was: Group N; Group S; L, M, O & Formula Ford; Formula Vee; C & A & Invited; Q & R Sports & Racing; Regularity; Supersprint; and HQ Racing.

Full results from the weekend can be found at http://racing.natsoft.com.au/results/#2

Silver Lining for Jess Fox OAM in Prague

WORLD and Olympic champion Jess Fox OAM has won back-to-back World Cup silver medals at the ICF World Cup 2 in Prague, finishing second in both the Women’s Kayak and Canoe Finals.

Jess added the WC1 silver medal to Friday’s WK1 silver medal, as she continues to build towards the Paris Olympic Games.

As she did in the Kayak Final, Jess posted the fastest time on course but uncharacteristic penalties on course proved costly for the Olympic Champion.

She was however pleased to once again finish on the podium, with one more World Cup to go before

the main show at the Paris Olympic Games.

“It was a really good run, there were some good attacking bits, I improved on my semi but unfortunately the penalties cost me the win today. I was a bit frustrated with the last touch but very happy to be racing here. It’s an amazing atmosphere and good to be on the start line feeling those nerves.

“There was a bit of uncertainty a few days ago with the flooding, but they’ve managed it really well, we’ve all adapted, changed the format and I think that worked really well and we’ve made the best of the situation, so no issues from me.

“Another World Cup in Kraków [Poland] next weekend, before heading to Paris for a good block of training. This is our racing block and then we’ll

get back to some good training with less than 50 days to go, it’s exciting,” Jess said.

Friday’s racing took place under revised racing conditions in Prague, after high river levels forced the postponement of the opening day of competition. There was just one heat run in both the men’s and women’s K1, with the top ten in both progressing straight to the Final.

After qualifying in second place, Jess recorded the fastest time on course but penalties on course proved costly, with the World Champion taking the silver medal.

Fellow Australian Kaylen Bassett made it through to the Men’s Kayak (MK1) Final, where he delivered a PB to finish 7th overall.

Noemie Fox wins Silver and a Paris Olympic quota berth

NOEMIE Fox has delivered a fairy-tale finish at the ICF World Cup 2 in Prague, to earn Australia an Olympic quota spot in the Kayak Cross and all but consolidate her place in the Australian Olympic Team in Paris.

In back-to-back racing on the final day of competition, Noemie was nothing short of impressive, having to compete in five races before booking a spot in the Final, where she staged a stunning come-from-behind performance to take the silver medal.

With only three quota spots on offer in the new Olympic discipline of Kayak Cross, the stakes couldn’t have been higher.

But Noemie, a seasoned professional, held her nerve and executed her game plan perfectly to put her in the frame to qualify for her first Olympic Games, alongside sister Jess Fox OAM.

An emotional Noemie understood the enormity of her achievement, following the race, and was eager to savour the moment.

“It’s been such a long day, I’ve gone through step by step, go through the time trial, go through the first round, the goal was to do the most rounds possible and end up in the Final and end up on the podium.

“It’s been such a long journey and I feel so grateful to have had the most incredible support team here with me, and to be able to celebrate it and join the Australian Olympic team, and join my sister, it’s so incredible and I’m so happy.

“The semi final with the reigning World Champion, past World Champion and European medal;ist was probably the hardest thing. So once I got through that, and I was in the final, I was just wanting to enjoy it and not come last, and that’s what I did.

“Paris has always been a distant dream and one that I wanted to latch onto, whilst staying a little bit rational knowing there were so many steps to get to this day and where we are. I think [Paris] it’s going to feel a bit like a home Olympics, being half French and with such a huge family and fan base in France.

“To be able to line up with Jess as well and the other two Australians Tristan [Carter] and Tim

[Anderson] it’s just going to be so incredible and I can’t wait to start thinking about that journey.”

Like her sister Jess, Noemie has been coached by her mum Myriam who competed for France at the Olympics in canoe slalom. Myriam, on the sidelines in her canoe and kayak coaching role, couldn’t hold back her excitement when she realised she would have her two daughters competing for Australia at the Olympics.

“I feel ecstatic. It’s a dream, it’s like an Olympic gold for me to have two girls at the Olympics. It’s a dream come true for Noemie. She’s been working hard and her coach Pierre had a good strategy preparing for today, I’m just so happy,” she said.

Noemie Fox in action in the Kayak Cross in Prague. Photos courtesy of Paddle Photography / Paddle Australia

BY NOEL ROWSELL

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Jess Fox OAM in action in the WC1 Final in World Cup 2. Photos courtesy of Paddle Photography / Paddle Australia

Rain fails to stop Macarthur Junior Masters

HEAVY rain mid-week threatened to prevent any play in the 2024 JNJG Macarthur Junior Masters, which was scheduled for Sun 9th - Mon 10th June at both Camden (Studley Park) and Campbelltown golf courses.

Both courses received over 100mm of rain mid-week but thankfully, whilst two further late bursts of rain on Saturday did eventually prevent play at Camden, the organisers were fortunate Campbelltown missed the worst of those conditions, allowing play on both days.

Due however to the conditions and being restricted to one course, the event was reduced from 36 holes to 18, with Boys from the 13 & Under and 14/15 Year groups playing on Sunday, and the 16/17 Boys, and all of the Girl’s divisions, playing on Monday.

A total of 179 players teed off over the two days (137 boys, 42 girls), with the best performances from western Sydney clubs in the Girls ranks including Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge) tied 7th outright and 6th in the 16/17 Years Girls; Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge) tied 9th

10th in 16/17 Years Girls; Jessica

and

a tie for 27th outright.

Section titles on target in the 2024 Master Pennant

IT was a mixed bag of results for local golf clubs in Round 4 of the 2024 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition.

Cromer defeated Stonecutters Ridge 5.5-2.5, Dunheved drew 4-4 with Mona Vale, Maly defeated Springwood 5-3, Twin Creeks defeated Bayview 6-2, Glenmore Heritage Valley drew 4-4 with Lynwood, Penrith defeated RydeParramatta 5-3, Leonay drew 4-4 with Richmond and Wallacia fell 6.5-1.5 to Kareela.

With only 2 rounds left to play, the local teams are in the following positions.

Division 1: Stonecutters Ridge are currently in 1st place in Section 1 and play away over the next two weekends, firstly against 3rd-placed Kogarah, followed by 4th-placed Cabramatta. Stonecutters are still favoured to win the Section. Dunheved are in 2nd position in Section 2 and play 4th-placed Castle Hill over the next two weekends. Two wins would give Dunheved a chance of winning the Section, but they will rely on 3rdplaced Liverpool taking at least one round win over 1st-placed Mona Vale.

Division 2: Springwood is in 3rd spot in Section 1 and their home and away matches with Marrickville over the next two weekends will determine which club heads to the Relegation playoffs. Twin Creeks are

placed 1st in Section 2 and have two away games against Lakeside Camden and Oatlands. Twin Creeks will be favoured to win the Section. In Section 3, 1stplaced Penrith meet 2nd-placed Lynwood away and at home. Two wins or a split result would give Penrith the Section title. Glenmore Heritage Valley are currently in 4th place in Section 3 and need 2 wins over 3rd-placed Ryde-Parramatta to avoid the Relegation playoffs.

Division 3: Leonay are currently in 2nd place and meet Section leaders Kareela away and at home over the next two weekends. Leonay need two wins to capture the Section title, although 3rd-placed Richmond could also threaten to claim the title, if they grab two wins over 4th-placed Wallacia. Double wins for both Leonay and Richmond would take the result to a countback, with Leonay only half a win ahead of Richmond after four rounds.

outright and 1st in 14/15 Years Girls; Marie-Claire Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge) tied 21st outright and

Fog (Penrith) 27th outright

9th in 14/15 Girls.

Chayse Thorpe (Concord) did best in the Boys division, finishing at +1 to be tied for 10th outright, whilst Darcy Mackay (The Australian) finished +5 in

File photos of Annoushka Maikap, Chayse Thorpe and Savannah Webb . Photos courtesy of Annika Boyd / JNJG

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Wayne Palmer (Richmond) and Laurie Cupples (Leonay) in action in Round 4.

Photos by Noel Rowsell

McLean brothers selected for U19s Origin

BY PANTHERS MEDIA

Panthers brothers, Jesse and Casey McLean have been selected in the NSW U19s representative team to face QLD U19s at Leichhardt Oval on Thursday 20 June.

THE game will kick-off at 7:45pm and be broadcast by Fox League on Fox Sports, as well as Channel Nine and 9Now.

NSW UNDER 19s SQUAD

1. Chevy Stewart (Canberra Raiders)

2. Jesse McLean (Penrith Panthers)

3. Casey McLean (Penrith Panthers)

4. Hayden Buchanan (St George Dragons)

5. Michael Gabrael (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)

6. Jake Elliott (Sydney Roosters)

7. Mitchell Woods (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

8. Loko Pasifiki Tonga (St George Dragons)

9. Matthew Arthur (Parramatta Eels)

10. Fanafou Seve (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

11. Jermaine McEwen (Newcastle Knights)

12. Noah Martin (Canberra Raiders)

13. Blake Steep (Sydney Roosters)

14. Zane Harrison (Tweed Seagulls)

15. Jacob Halangahu (St George Dragons)

16. Kaiden Lahrs (North Queensland Cowboys)

17. Sam Tuivaiti (Parramatta Eels)

18. Connor Votano (Newcastle Knights)

19. Cody Hopwood (Newcastle Knights)

20. Logan Spinks (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

Panthers edge Manly as To’o bags hat-trick

BY CAMERON MEE NRL REPORTER

A

first-half hat-trick to Brian To’o has fired Penrith to a 10-point victory over the Sea Eagles.

THE match was a free-flowing, entertaining affair, with the two teams combining for 11 tries and 54 points. Sea Eagles winger Tommy Talau crossed for four on his own, however it was not enough to secure his team the win.

Whilst Manly were clinical in attacking territory, Penrith were methodical throughout and finished with an 87% completion rate that allowed them to largely dictate proceedings.

To’o and Talau each scored first-half hat-tricks in an eventful opening 40 minutes.

The Penrith winger opened the scoring, however it was the visitors who dominated the middle period of the first half.

Talau crossed for three tries in the space of eight minutes as the Sea Eagles sent multiple attacking raids down their left edge.

Penrith’s left flank was just as lethal, however, and improved field position eventually led to To’o’s second in the 32nd minute.

The winger completed his hat-trick four minutes later, with the Panthers thrilled to head to the sheds with a 16-12 lead courtesy of Paul Alamoti’s two conversions.

To’o had remarkable stats of three tries, 158 running metres, four line breaks and 11 tackle breaks in the first half. Talau was just as good, with three tries, 124m, three line breaks and four tackle busts.

The action shifted to the right-hand side of the field after the break, with winger Sunia Turuva extending Penrith’s margin in the 51st minute.

The 21-year-old started the try-scoring motion by bursting straight through the middle of the Sea Eagles defence before he was eventually dragged down. The Panthers attacked left on the ensuing play before Jarome Luai swung the ball back to the right and Turuva eventually had an unimpeded run to the tryline.

The premiers turned the screws from that point, slowly wearing their opponents down and taking control of the contest.

The pressure led to a Liam Henry try and suddenly Penrith had turned a 12-4 deficit into a 28-12 lead with 19 minutes to play.

Manly, however, still had an ace up their sleeve and Talau had his fourth moments later to keep his side in the contest.

Penrith kept their noses in front when Turuva finished off one of the tries of the season before Jason Saab joined the try-scoring party to set up a grandstand finish.

That was where the scoring concluded, with the Panthers holding on to claim an enthralling 32-22 win.