Nepeannews 15december2016

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Thursday, 15 December 2016

ISSUE 190

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PENRITH’S BIG BASH Penrith Mayor, John Thain pictured alongside Penrith Cricket Club womens’ skipper and recently re-signed Sydney Thunder squad member, Mikayla Hinkley, is excited with the return of the Sydney Thunder for two women’s Big Bash League games this Friday and Saturday at Howell Oval against the Adelaide Strikers.

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localnews local WESTERN Sydney Local Health District veteran and passionate health advocate, Primary Healthcare Education and Research Unit Associate Professor Smita Shah, has received a surprise accolade to add to her collection of awards.

The Mount Druitt Medical Practitioner’s Association, headed

by President Dr Hani Bittar, proudly presented Associate Professor Australian Medical Associate vice president Dr Kean-Seng Lim, Shah with the inaugural WSLHD Primary Healthcare Education and Research Unit Associate Professor “Member of the Year” Smita Shah and Mount Druitt Medical Practitioner’s Association President award at its 25-year Dr Hani Bittar and WentWest CEO Walter Kmet. celebration dinner.

Granted not only in recognition of Associate Health Network is proud to partner with Professor Shah’s outstanding contribution to Associate Professor Shah and the SALSA the association, the award also acknowledged program in providing some of the necessary her grassroots impact on improving community funding to keep this valuable program health outcomes, through the delivery of the implemented in western Sydney high schools,” award-winning peer-education high school he said.

“Its success owes a lot to the strong program Students As Lifestyle Activists collaborations forged and sustained by Dr Shah (SALSA).

“I am delighted and honored to receive such a over many years across the health, education and business sectors.” prestigious award,” Dr Shah said.

For more information on the SALSA program, “To be recognised by my peers is something I contact the WSLHD Primary Healthcare value dearly, I am very humbled.”

WentWest CEO Walter Kmet shared his Education and Research Unit on 9845 6505 or check out the website: http://tinyurl.com/ enthusiasm for Dr Shah’s efforts.

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Furious reaction on our facebook site POSTS on our facebook page revealing the sentence received by Bobby’s abuser sent our readers in a spin of disbelief and fury. The public reaction to this sentencing is loud and clear. NOT GOOD ENOUGH. So what injuries does one need to suffer from to have the offender receive the maximum sentence????? This is it! How can it get any worse.

I don’t think pleading guilty should lessen any sentence either. This really deserved the maximum sentence. The family should appeal. And the courts should make it easy to do so, not drag it on for another two years.

Donna Fleming OMG!!! This is a disgrace to human society, especially when this waste of air space gets to live while these babies/children are trying to deal with the injuries and mental scarring that they have been subjected to, No wonder people take the law into their own hands when our legal system lets them down in many cases. It’s about time we stand up for ourselves and those who can’t do it for themselves.

Suzie Meill Beb It’s ridiculous how our court system lets down the people that need the most protection. While the scum keep getting a slap on the wrist only to go and reoffend majority of the time.

Rudi Kalemusic I am so disillusioned with our justice system. When this low life gets out (hopefully prison justice will be more effective) all future earnings should go to Bobby for his life long care and medical expenses.

Bettina Lisson The sentence should be the expected lifespan of the victim. His life will never be as it should be.

Theresa Horne Words fail me. This is a disgusting sentence. In 8 years he will get his life back but this poor baby boy and his family won’t. And to get protection in jail? No way. He does not deserve it.

Alison Hammond He should never be allowed near decent people again. Out in 8 years it’s a travesty John Thain

From the Editor’s Desk

by Kerrie Davies WHILE babysitting this innocent seven-month old baby, he inflicted upon him the most disgraceful injuries you could ever imagine - multiple skull fractures, fractured his vertebrae, broke both his ankles, bit him and bruised his genitals.

And yet in just a few years this sickening mongrel could be living in your street.

Yes. That’s the reality when our courts persist in handing down lenient sentences for abhorrent crimes - in this case the judge decided to give Nolan just eight and a half years of the 25 year maximum available to him.

It makes you sick to the stomach, doesn’t it?

It is over two years ago now that little Bobby, from Glenmore Park survived the unimaginable - against all odds. But he can’t walk. He is severely brain damaged. He has lost the quality of life he deserved before that monster got his hands on him.

And yet Nolan won’t be paying for what he has done with his life.

Not even close.

Surely the time for our court system to get an overhaul is well overdue.

Perpetrators of the most horrific crimes can’t keep getting let back out in the streets after such a short time. There are loads of cases, including murders, where the abuser had been previously convicted of other crimes yet was back out on the streets far too early.

Could it be any clearer that the system does nothing to protect the innocent?

What kind of message does it send if a piece of garbage like Nolan can cause such horrendous injuries to this innocent little darling, ruin his life, and be back among the public before his victim even starts high school? ur I feel ashamed that our courts could let Bobby andd his family down so badly.

It is time for ourr community to make somee noise and demand tougherr sentencing from our courts.. n Which injury inflicted on this tiny baby was not considered a crime worthy of the maximum sentencing available?

Campaigns need to started, petitions signed and politicians need to listen.

When the vicious and senseless attack was taking place, all little Bobby could do was look at his abuser with questioning eyes. He had no way of stopping the blows. The system needs an overhaul - NOW. We owe it to this little fella to protect him and others like him, and lock creatures like Nolan away from society for a very long time.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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STUART AYRES MP, Member for Penrith is encouraging local NSW Seniors Card holders to visit his office to pick up a copy of the 2017 NSW Seniors Card Directory.

“These directories are full of discounts and special offers which are available to NSW Seniors Card members from thousands of

participating businesses across NSW,” said Stuart Ayres.

The NSW Seniors Card is one of the most commonly used services for NSW residents over the age of 60.

“Previously the Seniors Card Directory was mailed directly to members however this year can be collected from my office,” said Stuart Ayres.

An online version of the Directory is available at www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au.

Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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A Christmas lunch for all

By Keegan Thomson

A GOOD old fashioned Christmas arvo nap is the best way to process and breakdown the excess prawns, ham, cakes and wines we all over-indulge during Christmas lunch, but across the west there are hundreds of people who can’t afford to over-consume simply because they don’t have enough money for a sprawling Christmas lunch.

On Christmas Eve-eve, December 23, the Penrith CBD Corporation is putting on a special Christmas luncheon for disadvantaged people and families of the west.

Gai Hawthorn, CEO of the Penrith CBD Corporation, said everyone deserves to have a Christmas lunch feast no matter what their circumstances.

“We want to give underprivileged people of Penrith a Christmas luncheon with all the fare and excitement of a traditional lunch,” Ms Hawthorn said.

Working with the Penrith Community Kitchen, the Christmas Luncheon will host a slew of Christmas activities including a carolling choir, gift bags for adults, presents for kids and even a visit from Santa.

“It is going to be a proper Christmas for people who don’t have the chance to share a full Christmas family meal on the big day,” she said. “It’s a whole community effort and the CBD is all about working together.”

The funds for the luncheon were raised across the year with donations coming in from businesses around the Penrith CBD. Ms Hawthorn said the event couldn’t take place without the generosity of all the businesses across Penrith.

“All of the funds, the food and

the gifts come from donations from the community and the businesses in and around the CBD,” she said.

“We wouldn’t be able to host the lunch without the generosity of the community.”

“Last year there was a little girl who received her first doll and she was seven-years-old. She had a big smile on her face and I’m sure she’ll treasure that doll for years to come,” Ms Hawthorn added. “It’s the little things that make the big differences.”

Currently the CBD Corp are looking

for last minute fundraisers to drop in and donate.

“If you donate $25 you’ll be able to buy someone a relief hamper filled with food, toiletries and things which will help people get through the holiday period,” Ms Hawthorn said.

If you’d like to donate to the Penrith CBD Corp Christmas Luncheon you can drop into their office at Suite 3, 488 High Street, Penrith.

The Christmas luncheon is on Friday December 23 with doors opening around 12:00.

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7 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

Council feud over airport

By Keegan Thomson

PRESSURE is being put on Penrith Council to change their stance on the Badgerys Creek Airport which was signed off on earlier this week.

Newly elected Labor Councillor, Cr Ben Price has spoken out against the council’s stance on the airport urging them to reconsider their support.

“To say they’re going to maintain the curfew at Kingsford Smith and then dump all the planes at 3 am in the morning over the west, that doesn’t pass the equity test,” Cr Price said.

From the get go (this time round) Penrith City Council has said they would support the airport at Badgerys Creek as long as there is a night curfew in place and a North-South rail link running from the airport to Penrith. Both of these prerequisites have not been met and there are signs that neither of them will be met at all.

Cr Price said the infrastructure Minister has written to council to say there was never an intention for a curfew on the airport and there isn’t going to be a curfew put in place in the future.

Cr Ben Price speaks out against the airport. Photo: Supplied.

“The game has changed since council first threw their support behind it. There is no word on the North-South rail link and we’re certainly not going to get a curfew as it stands today,” Cr Price said.

“There has to be a line in the sand where you say OK, we’re not getting what we’ve asked for so what are our options, and one of those options is to withdraw our support,” he said.

Recently the EIS on the airport stated there could be up to 45 flights over the area between the hours of 10pm and 7am with the most impacted on areas being around the Penrith LGA. With Cr Price breaking ranks and speaking out against the airport he risks upsetting his fellow Labor

councillors, but he says the issue goes beyond party allegiances.

“As a Councillor sometimes you have to go beyond the party lines and ask what is best for the community and what is best for the rate payers,” he said. “I’ll be looking for support from wherever I can get it.”

Cr Price joins Independent councillors Cr Marcus Cornish and Cr Kevin Crameri who have also gone on the record to voice their concerns over the council’s stance on Sydney’s second airport.

Last month Cr Crameri spoke to Nepean News and suggested the council do something about the airport or they all resign.

Cr Stephen Bali, President of WSROC voiced his concerns over the

lack of information around the curfew.

“Equity is a key concern for WSROC and unlike Kingsford Smith, Western Sydney Airport has no specific operating limitations, no noise abatement strategy, and no insulation or noise sharing programs,” Cr Bali said.

Cr Bali also said he wants to see further plans for employment growth surrounding the airport.

“In addition to protections, WSROC wants to see the government’s plan for maximising the airport’s potential for employment, access to services, social inclusion, and regional connectivity,” he said.

Early development on the site is due to be completed in 2018 with the airport set to open in the mid 2020s.

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Christmas lights shining bright

By Keegan Thomson

WITH more than a quarter of a million christmas lights decorating the house at 12 Carpenter street, Colyton it is clear that Sharon Peach and her daughter Ebony have the brightest house in the west.

The pair started their annual Christmas light caper a few years ago after they decided they wouldn’t put in a half effort.

“We started with a few little lights and then I decided we needed to do better,” Ms Peach said.

“I can’t do it half heartedly, it’s either be the best around or don’t even bother at all,” she laughed.

Working for eight long weeks leading up to Christmas the pair worked together putting up the 350,000 odd Christmas lights. Sharon’s 15-yearold daughter Ebony said a lot of hard work and commitment goes into the display.

“We’re spending at least seven hours a day across an eight week period putting up these lights,” Ebony said. “It it a lot of hard work.”

With all the work and hours involved Ebony joked saying she, “doesn’t even like Christmas time that much” and admitted that her family doesn’t even put up their Christmas tree until Christmas Eve because they’re so busy.

But Ms Peach gave Ebony all the credit for the detailed design of the Christmas light installation and the increased public awareness of this year’s display.

“She’s the brains of it all. She’s a wiz on the

9 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Sharon and Ebony Peach decorated their home with some 350,000 lights. Photo: Kennedi Geyer.

computer and she’ll whip up a poster for the lights or for our business,” Ms Peach said.

Each year the pair work to raise money for local children’s charity Rosie’s Place.

“Last year we raised $1,200 for Rosie’s Place but this year we’re on track to raise over $2,000,” she said.

On top of it all the mother and daughter pair also work together in the kitchen running Sharon’s Superb Slices, a small business which sells cakes and baked goods.

“It is a crazy time of year and I reckon we get maybe five hours sleep a night at the moment,” Ms Peach said. “We’ve got Christmas lights running all night long and in the day we’re baking in the kitchen

running Christmas orders and making cakes for our nightly cake stall.”

The lights at 12 Carpenter street, Colyton will be on each night leading up to Christmas. Sharon’s Superb Slices will be selling cakes and there will be a donation bucket with all donations going to Rosie’s Place. Lights will be on from around 8:00.

We’re on the hunt for the best Christmas lights in the west! Head to our Nepean News facebook page and let us know for your chance to win a table for 4 to the Major Oak. Competition closes Friday December 16.

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

GETTING TO KNOW....

Bobby the Brave’s attacker

Nathan Pentecost

By Keegan Thomson

Panthers Wheelchair RL Captain with Conner Lowe

1.

What was your first paid job? I worked in a childcare centre in emu plains.

2. What is your guilty pleasure? Unfortunately, McDonalds.

3. What is your biggest fear/phobia and why?

I don’t like thunder.

4. What is your worst habit? Probably staying up late and being tired the next day.

5. Best advice you have ever been given?

Always work on the small steps and small goals to achieve bigger goals.

6. If you only had $50 left in the bank, how would you spend it? Probably buy a piece of jewellery for my wife.

7. Favourite holiday destination and why?

New Zealand, just a beautiful place to be. I probably would retire there if i could.

8. Do you have a favourite sporting team?

Penrith panthers 9. Name one reason that you love Western Sydney? I love the people in western Sydney they are so friendly and always good for a chat.

10. In three words, describe your perfect Sunday? Playing wheelchair rugby league.

SITTING in the Darlinghurst Supreme Court last Friday, we heard the sentence handed down to the man who has been called a ‘monster’ who ‘breached the trust of a family’ and who left a defenceless seven-month-old baby boy from Glenmore Park with catastrophic life-long injuries.

Andrew Nolan, 34, was sentenced to eight and a half years in gaol after he bashed the then seven-month-old Bobby ‘the brave’ Webber within an inch of his little life in 2014.

The Webber family with their supporters outside the Supreme Court.

On an evening in September, 2014, Photo: Keegan Thomson Bobby was left in the care of his nonbiological uncle, Mr Nolan, who took it upon himself tears, Elise Webber said she was disappointed by the to inflict devastating and life threatening injuries to results. the seven-month-old boy. During his sentencing the “We were hoping he would be sentenced to the court was told of the level of anger and physical harm full extent of the law, like 25 years, but we were let which Mr Nolan inflicted upon the little boy. down,” she said.

Bobby’s mother, Elise Webber cried as District Barry Webber, Bobby’s father, was more than Court Judge Philip Ingram described the attack angry with the results. He questioned ‘the system’ on her son. He said the attack left Bobby with an saying “you’re supposed to have faith in it but when “extraordinary scope of injuries” which included you get a result like this you can’t help but feel like broken ribs, skull fractures, fractured ankles, bruised it is broken”. genitals, carpet burns a bite mark and multiple During the police investigation Mr Nolan gave four forehead wounds. different accounts of the night Bobby was attacked. In Outside the courthouse the Webber family were one account he said Bobby had sustained his injuries physically shaken by the sentence, it was clear they because he had dropped Mr Nolan’s mobile phone on had expected harsher sentencing. Fighting back her his head multiple times. On another account he suggest

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an intruder came in through the front door and bashed Bobby whilst Mr Nolan slept on a nearby couch.

Later on in the investigation Mr Nolan admitted he had changed Bobby’s nappy and then decided to put his foot on the infant’s back with force and rubbed him face first along the carpet.

Mr Nolan also said he had hit Bobby twice with an open hand and had thrown him into his cot though Judge Ingram could not accept this account given it did not explain the child’s fractured ankles.

As a result of the attack, Judge Ingram said Bobby has been left with “life long catastrophic injuries” which include seizures, blindness, cerebral palsy, he is a quadriplegic and will require the use of a wheel chair and round the clock care for the rest of his life.

Mr Nolan was given a max of 12 and a half years in protective custody after sources suggested Mr Nolan’s life might be in danger if he were put in with the general prison population. The judge said it was clear Mr Nolan was remorseful. Mr Nolan will be available for parol in 2023.

Those present to support Bobby and his family didn’t agree that he was remorseful.

After the sentence was handed down someone called out across the court “f***ing dog”.

As he was lead out of the docks Mr Nolan replied, “See you in 12 years.”

Members of Bobby’s family have set up a donation page at https://www.gofundme.com/bobby-the-brave with all funds going to the ongoing rehabilitation and support for Bobby the Brave. As of December 9 the page had raised $54,000.

BOBBY THE BRAVE has received some muchneeded community love in the form of a $17,000 cheque from the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The money raised came from a golf day with local businesses across Penrith including one uber generous donation from Kingswood Compounding Pharmacy who donated $5,000 as well as free medicines for the rest of Bobby’s life.

In a statement, the Chamber said Bobby and his family were the obvious choice for the funds.

“After meeting with Bobby and his mum Elise and hearing Bobby’s tragic story it was full steam ahead for the Chamber to organise one of the

best Golf Days the Chamber has organised,” the Chamber said.

On facebook the Webber family thanked the Chamber and the local businesses.

“As we recieved the giant cheque I had tears rolling down my face and really struggled to string a sentence together. Words were not enough to show our appreciation,” the status said.

“Penrith is full of Angels, thank you so much for your support of Penrith’s local hero,” it read.

The donation and the life time supply of medicine will surely help the Webber family who are facing an uneasy, up-hill battle.

11 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Legends of the Nepean

By Garion Thain

IN 2015, I had the pleasure of interviewing local resident Evelyn Hitchenon and her family. Ms Hitchenon had just turned 100 years old and was celebrating, having received a signed letter from Queen Elizabeth II and the Prime Minister. Her family was quick to mention her resilience and good humour, saying she stunned doctors.

Interestingly, celebrating with the Hitchenon family was her GP of 40 years, Dr Ramasamy Muthukrishnan, who was thanked for taking good care of Ms Hitchenon, who said she “always does what my Doctor tells me.”

Dr Muthukrishnan is loyal to his patients, holding a belief that they can become agents of their own health as well as mental clarity.

Dr Muthukrishnan is not just a GP, however. The man is also an

Dr Ramasay Muthukrishnan is a Penrith GP and author, publishing two books on hypnotherapy, of which he is a specialist.

author, with a firm interest in the human consciousness and the role individuals play in conditioning their own sub-conscious. He is one of the few GP’s in Australia practicing hypnosis therapy, patients being referred to him from interstate to undergo his therapy, which he says is the scientific method of hypnosis.

He has just released his second book, Kick Start Your Consciousness, a follow up to his previous self-help book Software for the Soul. I thought it might be interesting then to ask the Penrith doctor about his work, what he believes in and why he chooses to practice in the Nepean.

Dr Muthukrishnan graciously spoke to me again this month to share an insight into his practice.

“Life is like a big addiction, in a way,” said Dr Muthukrishnan.

“Addiction is programming.

Properly done, scientific hypnosis can change this.”

Dr Muthukrishnan says that regrettably the act of ‘hypnosis’ has earnt a sketchy reputation from mainstream depiction and practice as a gag of sorts.

“People think of magicians, party games with hypnosis,” he said.

“They think of the guy on stage walking like a chook.

“It doesn’t help that a lot of hypnotherapists don’t practice scientifically,” he continued.

“Ideally, hypnosis belongs to the GP.” Dr Muthukrishnan champions his method, the proof of which he says is in the hundreds of fulfilled patients and national recognition. Before asking him to elaborate, I queried how he first developed an interest in the conditioning of the sub-conscious.

Dr Muthukrishnan revealed he already had an interest in meditation before coming to Australia, 43 years ago.

“When I came from India, I was amazed by the stress levels people were under in an affluent country like Australia,” he said.

“People were physically healthy, but depressed,” he continued.

“I studied hypnosis and combined it with my own meditative techniques, to relieve patients from stress and their anxieties.”

In his recent book, Dr Muthukrishnan states that many patients undergo changes after the initial session. One man, a problem

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DOCTOR RAMASAMY MUTHUKRISHNAN gambler, allegedly screamed “I am God!” in joy after his first visit. This is because, Dr Muthukrishnan says, the subconscious is an incredibly powerful tool, and the capacity of thought to influence habits is hard to comprehend for most people because they instead rethink the same thoughts every day. The repetition becomes addictive.

“It is [only] now common knowledge that the average person thinks 60,000 thoughts a day,” Dr Muthukrishnan says in Kick Start Your Consciousness.

He says that through hypnotic subversion of background thinking, not only do habits change but the patients’ overall outlook does as well.

“The effect on those with anxiety for example is immediate,” he said.

“I also run a clinic at the hospital and have done therapy on patients and their carers. They become very

different kind of people and are able to relax more.”

Behavioural changes occur, he said, because hypnosis by-passes excuses and defensive behaviour a patient would exhibit whilst fully conscious.

“How will a smoker or drug addict change? Ordinarily, they would be defensive,” said Dr Muthukrishnan.

“Under hypnosis they can accept it, and enact change.”

Dr Ramasay Muthukrishnan’s practice may seem odd to some and is by no means a part of the mainstream consciousness yet, however for such an interesting practice to be operating in Penrith to positive reception and national prominence is certainly worth looking at.

Dr Muthukrishnan conveys his ideas passionately and accommodatingly and was indeed an interesting chat, and a fascinating legend as we head to close out 2016.

13

Doctor Ramasamy Muthukrishnan was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Korena Hale.

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

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

Christmas troubles

CHRISTMAS is almost upon us. With all the delicious food that is around, animals can be just as tempted to indulge like us. While we might be left with a sore tummy and a few extra kilos, the consequences for animals can be much more severe.

Many Christmas foods contain ingredients than can be toxic and even fatal to animals.

Fruitcake is one of the most important things to keep away from your pets over Christmas. Most fruitcakes contain alcohol, raisins and grapes which are all toxic to pets. These can cause irreverisble damage to an animal’s kidneys and cause lethargy and vomiting.

Chocolate is another toxic food to pets that is often laying about during the Christmas period.

Even a small amount of chocolate can be toxic to an animal so it is important to seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet eats any.

Christmas favourites like pork or ham should also be kept away from pets. The high fat content of these meats can cause pancreatitis in pets. This can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting and lethargy.

Another less common toxin is xylitol – this is

an artificial sweetener found in many foods and chewing gum. It is reported that xylotil is 100 times more toxic than chocolate.

During the Christmas season we also usually see a kitten or cat with a string foreign body. This is where a piece of string or tinsel becomes obstructed in the animal’s intestines. The contractions of the intestines allow the bowel to move along the string and the bowel then becomes twisted upon itself. This becomes a life threatening problem as the string acts as a ‘saw’ through the intestines.

This often is an emergency and requires surgery

to remove the foreign object from the intestine and sometimes requires bowel to be resected.

Most animals will recover from this procedure but recovery can be long. Symptoms of bowel obstructions often include vomiting, decreased appetite, abdominal pain and lethargy. Animals that love eating strange objects are especially at risk.

Most animals will vomit from time to time but it is important to know when to seek veterinary attention.

If your animal is having multiple vomits and is not eating then it is important to see a veterinarian.

When animals have vomiting and diarrhoea, the fluid loss adds up quickly and they can become very dehydrated – seeing a veterinarian when there is both vomiting and diarrhoea is recommended.

Most happy adult dogs and cats with the occasional vomit that continue to eat normally with no changes in behaviour are probably ok to be left and monitored. Otherwise a trip to the vet is recommended. In the meantime withhold food for 12-24 hours and always remember to check around the house and in the backyard for any further signs of vomiting.

We hope you enjoy this festive season and remember to be careful with Christmas goodies like tinsel and fruitcake.

Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

Phone 47 313 055

The Australiana Pioneer Village in Rose Street Wilberforce - Last day for 2016 is Sunday 18th December we then open on Sunday 8th January and the Sunday’s after this as well as the 10th and 11th and the 17th and 18th of January for our beach party themed days.

Be prepared to get wet so bring a towel. These days are all 10am-4pm.

We are also opened on Australia Day Thursday 26th January 2017.

We are open from 9am-5pm.We have many displays, demonstrations, games, live entertainment and activities throughout the day.

We have many displays, demonstrations, games, live entertainment and activities throughout the day.

We will also have the following at a small charge of $5.00 each: Miniature Train Rides, Carriage Rides, Hay Wagon Rides, Pony Rides, We will also be having an Animal Nursery We will be having the Dunny Race as well and this year we will supply the materials for you to make your own. So come prepared for a fun family day out.

PHONE 4575 1777 ROSE STREET, WILBERFORCE NSW www.theapv.org.au

WELL here it is kidz the end of another glorious year (Where the hell did it go?). With Chrissy only next week (and no shopping done yet …holy crap!!!!) I must say that I have been extremely humbled, overwhelmed and at times having groups hugs from fans that that have dabbled in and followed my Gspot throughout the year.

I wish to thank you all for allowing me to share my experiences and pain with me. From drunken boneheads, to phlegm spitting/eating fans of the Gspot, car security, fully “ SICBRO” number plates, home security, flatulent cats, anxious overweight gold fish, 75 smelly family members in a caravan to save on accommodation cost and

an uncle that had bladder problems.

Yes folks, you have seen all and been there on the front line with me.

So …with New Year’s Eve just around the corner, I guess it is fair to say that the beloved boneheads will be grooming themselves for the drunken night of their lives. These folks are the clowns that create the most carnage in the shortest period of time and then end up asleep near a water fountain in their own vomit. (Great night…

Thumbs up, ya champion!).

Now …I know you are ALL sincerely hanging on the edge of your seat right now waiting on some amazing worldly advice on my take on New Year’s Eve ( Similar to the announcement of the winner is …

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

SYDNEY… same excitement right?)

Ummmm hmmmmmm ok let me think (Scratch scratch) - Just stay safe, drink responsibility (or don’t drink at all) don’t drink and drive, organise a designated driver (or take public transport) organise your night, stay home and have a BBQ, make sure your pets are safe and your yard is secure and don’t be a drunken or one-punch bonehead.

Also, if you have a home or business make sure you have security in place; alarms, deadlocks, back to base monitoring. If you are going away, get someone to stay at your house or organise security patrols for your business (Quick plug there).

It is also a time for celebration not

fights and arguments, Police don’t have time to attend stupid domestics over what colour the fireworks are, or your uncle’s cousin’s sister’s brother said something stupid like you’re fat and ugly. It is about a New Year, new slate, new canvas and a fresh start.

(Be happy).

So there you have it folks, the last Gspot for 2016 and as I hear the angels signing, the birds chirping and the possums ironing my work clothes, I wish you and all of your loved ones a very safe, happy and a boneheadfree zone for the festive season.

NOTE: No animals were harmed in the writing of this column. The goldfish went to weight watchers.

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15 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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A day in the life of... Santa Claus

By Keegan Thomson

CHRISTMAS is known as the most wonderful time of the year thanks to all the gift giving, partying and the summer holidays but for one man Christmas is the business end of the year.

Santa Claus, also know as Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick or Kris Kringle, is one of the hardest working blokes around, and one of the hardest working people this reporter has ever interviewed. He has the mammoth task of single-handedly distributing some seven-billion odd presents across the globe between the late hours of Christmas Eve and the early hours of Christmas morning.

Speaking to us exclusively Mr Claus said the most important part of his job is the teamwork.

“Behind every present and gift for every girl and boy across the world there is a whole team of elves who help make sure the delivery will happen on time,” Mr Claus said. “It really is a big team effort.”

“A sleigh is only as fast as those pulling it and without my great team of reindeers I wouldn’t be able to make it all the way around the world in time for Christmas morning,” he said.

Basing himself out of the North Pole, Santa Claus is not only the chief-

Santa Claus took some time out of his busy schedule to talk to us.

deliverer of Christmas presents worldwide but he is also the head-honcho of the North Pole toy workshop.

“Toys are my hobby but gifting them to good boys and girls across the world on Christmas day is my passion,” he said. “Not everyone gets to work in a job that is their passion so I guess I’m very lucky.”

Proposed rezoning of land at Penrith Lakes PLANNING Minister Rob Stokes today released on public exhibition a proposed rezoning of over 450 hectares of land at Penrith Lakes.

An amendment to the draft State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (Penrith Lakes Scheme) proposes additional parkland, environmental protection, tourism and employment opportunities and residential areas.

The development of the Penrith Lakes Scheme arises from an agreement in 1987 between the then Premier, the then Planning Minister and the Penrith Lakes Development Corporation (PLDC). The agreement allowed the site to be quarried in exchange for the rehabilitation and dedication of land to the NSW Government. Quarrying activities on the site finished in September 2015 and PLDC has been progressively rehabilitating the site.

The proposed amendments to the SEPP would provide for: • a waterway zone of approximately 80 hectares; • parklands covering approximately 110 hectares including the existing Sydney International Regatta

Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium; • an environmental area protecting approximately 118 hectares of land; • an employment area covering approximately 33 hectares to provide low impact local employment opportunities; • a tourism area of about 52 hectares that will protect heritage items such as the Upper Castlereagh Village, while promoting other uses such as cafes and tourist accommodation; and • residential areas that will allow for a total of up to 30 dwellings on large lots of 2 hectares.

The proposed SEPP amendments reflect investigations into flooding in the Hawkesbury Nepean flood plain.

The remaining area of almost 1330 hectares of Penrith Lakes will remain as ‘unzoned land’ while flood investigations continue in consultation with landowners, PLDC, Penrith City Council and the community.

The communities of Western Sydney are encouraged to review the draft zoning proposals. Submissions can be made until 23 December using the online form at www.planning.nsw. gov.au/proposals.

Across the year Mr Claus will spend most of his time on the North Pole overlooking the toy production and making preparations for Christmas but he said there are a number of other jobs which need to be done on the lead up to December 25.

“Something that takes up a lot of my time is the naughty and nice list,”

Strike Force Trawler A LONDONDERRY man will face court next month after being charged by detectives from State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad as part on covert online investigations into child exploitation.

Strike Force officers began engaging online with a man from Londonderry in June.

Police will allege in court the man believed he was speaking to a man and his 13-year-old son and that he made numerous sexually explicit comments regarding and to the child, and sent child abuse material.

It will also be alleged in court the man also believed he was speaking to the mother of a nine-year-old girl and that he made numerous sexually explicit comments regarding the child, and sent child abuse material.

About 4pm yesterday (Thursday 8 December 2016), detectives executed a search warrant at a home at Londonderry and arrested a 30-year-old man.

During the warrant, police located and seized cannabis, a mobile phone, a laptop, and electronic devices.

The man was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with two counts of use carriage service to transmit child pornography, and

he said. “It can take a lot of time to check it twice so that I can make sure I’m able to gift all the good children of the world the right presents.”

Other things Santa Claus does across a year will include reindeer grooming, baking Christmas treats, visiting children across the world and a lot of letter reading.

“Throughout the year I might receive maybe two to three million letters from all corners of the world in hundreds of different languages,” Mr Claus said. “I need to read them all so I can get some idea as to what presents children are wishing for come Christmas time.”

Mr Claus said one of the best parts of his job is all the travelling he does.

“Not many people can say they get to visit every country in the world at least once a year,” he chuckled. “It is a real blessing to be able to say that I’ve met children from all side of the globe.”

Out of all the children he’s met, Mr Claus said some of the best behaved and well manned children come from western Sydney.

“For me there is always a special place in my heart for the children of western Sydney,” he said with a rosy grin on his face. “They’re always first in my good list and they always leave the best treats and biscuits out for me.”

possess prohibited drug.

He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday 31 January 2016.

Strike Force Trawler is an ongoing Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) investigation into the sexual abuse and exploitation of children facilitated through the internet and related telecommunications devices.

Regular covert online investigations are conducted by the Child Exploitation Internet Unit and police in NSW work closely with their law-enforcement colleagues interstate and overseas.

Anyone with information about internet predators should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Nashos meeting PENRITH National Servicemen’s Association will be holding our monthly meeting on Sunday 20th November at Penrith RSL Club starting at 10.30am free morning tea provided. We will be also holding our Christmas Party on Friday 2nd December at Penrith RSL Club Tindale St Commencing at 6.00pm Cost is $40.00 includes a 2 course Dinner all welcome.

Further details contact Maureen on 0448 983 399.

17 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

Giggle & Hoot’s Magical Christmas

A live musical spectacular, Giggle and Hoot’s Magical Christmas, 16 December at The Joan!

IT’S Christmas time in the land of Giggle and Hoot and everybody is busy getting ready for the arrival of Hootoclaws for his special Christmas Night Watch.

Trees are being decorated, presents are being wrapped and all that is left to be done is Twinklify the very dark night sky…… but what happens when all the stars suddenly disappear?

Will Jimmy Giggle and Hoot be able to brighten the sky again and help save Christmas? Will they need help from some special Owl Pal friends?

Find out in this live musical spectacular, Giggle and Hoot’s Magical Christmas, at The Joan!

Giggle and Hoot, the much loved ABC4Kids preschool program, focuses on preschoolers’ lives and routines through songs, stories, friendship, laughter and imagination.

The live show, incorporating these themes, will be one of the most anticipated and hottest tickets for families this year.

So Owl Pals, get your giggle-tastic selves ready because Giggle and Hoot’s Magical Christmas is coming to Penrith this December!

Contact Joan Sutherland Booking office T: (02) 4723 7600, E: boxoffice@jspac.com.au

Locals to perform new Goldilocks play

By Conner Lowe

RUBY Productions is back in January with a new and revived story of ‘Goldilocks’ whichwill be performed by locals at Emu Plains sports club.

Ruby Productions is a theatre company located in Western Sydney offering quality productions and great opportunities for experienced and aspiring actors, directors and creatives.

The play is directed by Nathan Large and has very talented cast members performing the play.

Nathan is a very talented director and has been a cast member for Ruby productions in the past.

“Obviously there is a lot more responsibility that comes with being the director, but with such an amazing cast it has really helped with the stress and chaotic work schedule,” he said.

Nathan spoke about the twist to the story and the amazing cast who will be performing the play in January.

“The play is written by Anthony Brown and there is a new twist on the old story. The original ‘Goldilocks’ story has been changed with the three bears now gone, Goldilocks will return to fairy-tale land and gets herself into some mischief.

“The play is very funny with a couple of songs and it is very good clean family fun. The play has a great cast with lots of young people all with bright futures ahead of them,” he said.

Nathan also talked about why there is a change in the play and how the preparations for the play are intense.

“We changed it just to modernise the story and make it more interesting. Everyone knows the original so we decided to put a spin in it, there are quite good characters in the play and as always plenty of surprises.

“We have auditions and then its usually about 12 weeks before the production, followed by weeks of rehearsals. This one is a bit longer so the cast can have Christmas holidays, it’s quite a hectic work schedule, but because you are with everyone all the time everyone becomes great friends,” he said.

19 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

The show will be performed on January the 11th,12th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st at 10:30 am and 2:30pm.

Ticket price is $20 Adults, $15 Children and Concessions.

To book tickets go to www.trybooking. com/225909 To reserve show only phone (02) 47355422.

“GOLDILOCKS” will be performed at Emu Sports Club, 1 Leonay Parade; Leonay. www. rubyproductions.com.au

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Keegan’s Kitchen

with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Garlic bread and prawn salad For me the flavour of Christmas is prawns.

Fresh, barbecued, grilled, cocktailed, prawns in a salad, prawns with some sauce, prawns on a bread roll or even prawns with a splash of lemon, it doesn’t matter how you do it they’re going to taste perfect. I found this recipe and thought it sounded like a great starter for Christmas lunch. Don’t be put off by the garlic bread because it will add some extra crunch to the dish. If you’re not a fan of prawns you can always substitute for some fresh feta cheese.

INGREDIENTS: 250 grams of cherry tomatoes Olive oil Big rustic baguette 160 grams of melted butter 1 bunch of chives, chopped 2 gem lettuce 1 large avocado, sliced 2 sticks of celery, sliced thinly diagonally 1/2 cup green olives 1.2 kilos of cooked tiger prawns, peeled Juice of 1 lime 1/4 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce 1/3 cup of butter milk (milk can do) 1/4 cup of sour cream 2 tablespoons of tomato paste 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

Heavens Above Dreams To empower yourself with the thoughts of thanks for the good things that happened for you in 2016 and dream of the things you want to come about in 2017.

METHOD: 1. Preheat your oven to 200°c. Place your fresh tomatoes onto tray lined baking paper and sprinkle with oil.

Season to your taste and bake until soft.

2. Cut 1cm thick slices into the baguette but do not to cut right through the loaf.

Mix the butter, chives, garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl then spread mixture into the slices of the loaf. Wrap in foil and bake until butter is melted and bread is crusty.

3. Separate and wash the lettuce leaves on to a plate and arrange with tomatoes, avocado, celery, olives and prawns.

4. For the dressing you want to hand whisk the buttermilk, sour cream, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, and tabasco in a jug. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve with thin slices of garlic bread on the side.

21 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

You are the master of your life You are the master of our talents What are the great things in your talent arsenal that you can magnify?

To increase the value of your life to yourself and bring even greater value to those around you?

Be aware that all of mankind’s achievements began with a dream So dream on and dream big!

Also.... don’t be backward in coming forward to help others achieve their dreams too.

This is the perfect season for reflection, contemplation and determination’ And allow me please to remind you.......

Don’t let anyone steal your dreams!

Cheers for now, Your Mate Rossco

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Wealth (7) 5 Put on clothes (7) 9 Pernicious (9) 10 What fish breathe with (5) 11 Inner spirit (7) 12 Dawn (7) 13 Crystal (9) 15 Secure or fasten (5) 17 Loose temporary stitches (5) 19 Space for movement (9) 22 Unsinkable ship (7) 25 Inate skills (7) 26 Pulsate (5) 27 Cover with zinc (9) 28 Courage (7) 29 Dragged the bottom of a harbor (7)

DOWN 1 Not succeeding (7) 2 Repeat payments to performers (9) 3 Take one’s clothes off (7) 4 Soften and moisturize skin (9) 5 Writing tables (5) 6 Causing the improvement in offspring (7) 7 Ragout (5) 8 Tropical starchy tuberous root (7) 14 Beset with controversy or conflict (9) 16 Existing in abundance (9) 17 Basin (7) 18 Give a title to someone (7) 20 Government financial assistance (7) 21 Give false information (7) 23 Latin for “Earth” (5) 24 Clever (5)

solution 1/12/16

nepeanhistory nepean

22 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

John Macarthur’s Cloak H

OUSED in the Parkside Cottage Museum at Narrandera built a century ago, is one of the most celebrated items on display a scarlet coloured merino woollen cloak deemed to be the only one of its kind in the world made from the fortunes of the first bale of wool sent to England by the Macarthur family in 1816. The first sheep to arrive in Australia came with the First fleet in 1788 but by the end of that year all but one had been slaughtered for food or had died.

Credit for the introduction of the Spanish Merino originally goes to Captain’s Waterhouse and Kent who were sent by Governor Hunter to the Cape of Good Hope in 1796 to buy cattle. There they met Captain Phillip Gidley King who was on his way home to England and persuaded them to buy 26 Spanish Merino blood sheep but several of them died on the voyage back to Australia. On arrival Captain John Macarthur immediately offered to buy all the surviving sheep for 15 guineas per head but the offer was refused and it was not until later that a few sheep were distributed to Macarthur, Reverend Marsden and others.

Though the Australian Merino derives its name and basic appearance from the famed royal flocks of Spain it is in every way a distinct breed that adapted to the specific conditions of this country.

In 1804 Macarthur made a further very important purchase of seven Spanish fine wool Merino rams and one ewe from King George 3rd who had been able to obtain these sheep from Spain in exchange for some Flemish horses. By skilful breeding and selection Macarthur evolved the first Australian bred pure Merino sheep. The same year, Reverend Samuel Marsden had his own wool made up into a suit by Thompsons of Horsforth in Yorkshire in England and so impressed King George that he gave the Reverend a present of merinos from his Windsor stud. (The Powerhouse Museum has eight samples of the first wool produced in Australia that was cut from Samuel Marsden’s sheep and given to Governor King

by Samuel on the 11th August 1804 and sent to England to prove that Australia could have a wool industry. They were found in 1886 among papers in the Colonial Secretary’s office in London and given to the Powerhouse Museum previously called at that time Sydney’s Applied Arts & Sciences). Marsden was an important promoter of Australian wool and he concentrated on the development of strong heavy-framed sheep such as the Suffolk breed that had a more immediate value in the colony than the fine-fleeced Spanish merinos imported by John Macarthur and even though Marsden’s contribution to technology, breeding and marketing it was later far eclipsed by that of John Macarthur. Macarthur’s striking scarlet opera cloak lined with fleece from the pioneer NSW wool grower’s early flocks is believed to be from the 1816 shearing and the only surviving specimen from early Macarthur sheep. The cloak could have rotted in the rain and mud under the Narrandera sports field’s grandstand where it had been found in 1970 and rescued for the collection housed in the Parkside Cottage museum. The cloak was rescued by members of the Museum committee from the floor of the local grandstand where it had been tramped into the mud by half a generation of football boots. Though the cloak bears marks of its neglect it remains basically intact. It was taken to the district by Dr Harold Lethbridge who settled in the district after World War One and lived in his historic home ‘Maranoa’ until his unexpected death in 1944. Harold, known to all his friends as “Lether” was a remarkable man, a proficient and versatile medical practitioner.

Born on his father’s cattle station ‘Maranoa’ in West Queensland he

hunted, learned bush lore and how to eat grubs, possums and climb trees. He studied medicine at the University of Sydney and became a resident medical officer at Prince Alfred Hospital and later at the Children’s hospital in Glebe Road. Wanting to practise in the bush he went to Narrandera first as assistant and later in the Riverina. He was a ‘horse and buggy doctor’ in a very large district where he became an experienced general practitioner. Even in retirement he continued in medicine. How the cape became part of his collection is not known but his ancestors were related by marriage to the Macarthur family. Captain Philip King, son of the colony’s Governor Phillip Gidley King, had a daughter Maria who married John Macarthur’s nephew Hannibal and it appears Dr Lethbridge could have obtained the cloak through his connection with Robert Lethbridge. Its authenticity was originally challenged and in 1974 the late John Garran, son of the Australian constitutional authority Sir Robert Garran researched the cloak’s history to make sure of its authenticity. He unearthed several references to the cloak along with others made at the same time. His findings led him to the official Macarthur papers which told that on March 5 1818 John Macarthur Junior wrote from London to his father at Parramatta saying that he was going to send samples of cloth manufactured from the Macarthur wool to high ranking colonial officials to interest them in it. On February 28 1820 John Macarthur Senior wrote from Parramatta to his son in London “We are all much pleased with our coats and I am well satisfied with what you have done”. From his further study of the papers and of the dates of vessels sailing from Sydney to London at the time, John Garran deduced the coats were made from the clip of 1816. He wrote to Narrandera: “It is reasonable to assume that John Junior decided that the manufactured cloth would be more acceptable as presents if it were made up into garments and accordingly had cloaks made from it, some of which were sent to NSW where one became the property of Robert Lethbridge.”

As a further test John Garran had samples from the cloak scientifically tested by a leading Sydney furrier and the Gordon Institute of Technology and their results confirmed his own research. The findings vindicated local tourist officer Dan Clarke and other members of the Narrandera and Sturt Historical Society whose efforts to have the cloak recognized were initially greeted as “hooey.” Dan, a former journalist became so interested in the history of the surrounding Murrumbidgee area that with local Rotarians he got the district historical society going in 1968.

The society’s first president was at the sports ground in 1970 and saw a muddied piece of cloak sticking out of what could have been rubbish.

He immediately suspected what it was and called Dan. Hot on the heels of the find came controversy. Dr Lethbridge had housed his collection in Narrandera public school where it was moved and ended up under the grandstand and exposed to the weather and vandals. A Sydney professor rescued some pieces that are now in the Institute of Anatomy at Canberra.

The Historical Society had saved what else there was to save. Members held raffles to raise the money to buy the 100-year-old Parkside Cottage to house what is a most interesting museum collection.

Photo courtesy of Australian Dictionary of Biography Sources: Narrandera Parkside Cottage Museum, Narrandera Shire Library, Australian Women’s Weekly (23/8/1978), Australian Dictionary of Biography, Powerhouse Museum, the Big Merino website Lyn Forde – Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

OFFER ENDS 31ST DECEMBER 2016

Offer ends 31/12/2016. See in Store for Terms and Conditions.

Ask

LATTS

All your real estate questions answered, with Darren Latty ~ darren@prd.net.au Is there too much development going on in Penrith?

OVER the last 18 months or so we’ve finally started to see some new developments in Penrith – something I’ve been waiting for given the age, quality and limited numbers of our existing units. But with many more applications being approved by Council there are a growing number of people who concerned about over supply. Do we need to worry?

Definitely not yet, and here’s why…

1. Major growth As I write this our government have just given the final greenlight to the Western Sydney Airport. Last week

it was the $550m expansion of the Nepean Hospital that was confirmed.

These major projects have been on the horizon for years but are finally moving from the drawing board to reality. Love it or hate it, they’re going to create a lot of new jobs and those people will want to live somewhere close to work. In fact, it’s predicted that by 2036 a total of 664,000 new homes will be needed in Western Sydney, and Penrith is a major hub for that growth.

2. Cultural shift There’s a demand for centrally

located, quality housing options – from both first home buyers and downsizers.

Realistically it’s not possible for everyone to have a quarter acre block that’s also within walking distance of the shops and the station. So we have to build up, not out. Growing numbers of people are willing to trade the traditional suburban home for the convenience and low maintenance of a newly built apartment.

3. Not all of them will get built Just because an application has been approved that doesn’t mean the building will eventuate. In the

vast majority of cases builders and developers need to sell a certain number of units before they can gain access to their finance. So if there is not enough demand and the units go unsold, the development will not be able to go ahead. This is a selfregulating mechanism which helps to control over supply, as developments can only be built when the demand has already been demonstrated.

Property should be approached as a long term investment in your future.

Fortunately for us, the future of Penrith is looking rosy!

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23 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Lalor’s weekend of wickets revives Black Cats’ season

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

JOSH Lalor’s last minute decision to return from a quad strain injury to play against Gordon, may well have been the tonic Penrith needed to revive a season that looked to be slipping away in amongst a five-game losing streak in all forms of the game.

Whilst centuries to Tom KohlerCadmore and Jonathon Sammut steered Penrith to victory over Gordon last Saturday, it was the devastating spell just before tea the Saturday before from Lalor that ultimately setup the Black Cats’ win, finishing with the figures of 5/57.

Lalor revealed that whilst it was nice to take the wickets, it was an important team-talk at lunch that really set the team up for the win.

“I think we were in a bit of strife at lunch when they were 2-80 odd and looking pretty comfortable,” the leftarm quick said.

“Halsey and I had a bit of a chat to the boys about a couple of things I think we were lacking the last month

A very happy Josh Lalor after taking his 350th first grade wicket for Penrith.

Credit: 77 Media.

or so, those one percenters.

“We’ve been a bit lack-lustre. We weren’t doing the important things, looking after each other in the field, backing each other up, providing plenty of support in the field for the bowlers.

“Having been on a pretty good run the past couple of years not losing too many games you sort of forget how important those one percenters are.

“We’ve been expecting things to happen and that’s where we’ve probably been lacking.

“But we managed to turn that around after lunch when we got a few wickets in that middle session which really set us up for the last session where we went really well.

“We took the last wicket at quarter to six in the afternoon and while it was a pretty long day, I think the boys stuck at it really well and I managed to get a few wickets as well, which was nice.”

Lalor wasn’t finished there though and the next day took a further three wickets in Penrith’s T20 win over Blacktown, their first win in any form of cricket since Round Three.

Whilst happy with the eight wicket haul that enabled the NSW quick to reach 350 first grade wickets for the club, Josh says the T20 win could provide the momentum shift the club has been looking for.

“Cricket’s a game where you have a lot more bad days than good so to have a nice weekend like that is very good,” Lalor declared.

“We identified that this weekend is a key one, with an important match

against a top team and two T20’s so we need this as a big momentum shift.

“If we didn’t have a good weekend than that was going to put us in a pretty bad stead for the rest of the season.

“We’ve had a great couple of weekends and hopefully this will carry us into Christmas.”

Lalor admits that playing in Penrith’s T20 match also served as an ideal preparation heading into his second BBL season at the Brisbane Heat, where he believes the side, who failed to make the finals last summer, will surprise.

“For me having a good hit out there against Blacktown is really good practice,” Lalor said.

“I got to execute a few skills and they worked out pretty well and now I’m off to Brisbane to play a few more T20s before heading into the Big Bash.

“It’s my second year at the Heat and I think we have a great roster and a really flexible roster.

“There’s a lot of options in terms of playing extra bowlers, playing extra quicks, playing extra spinners, playing extra batters, even playing extra wicket keepers now McCullum’s in the team.”

25 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

Sydney Thunder to take Penrith by storm with two WBBL games

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

HAVING successfully hosted the debut match of the Sydney Thunder in the inaugural season of the Women’s Big Bash League last summer, Penrith will be home to two WBBL games this Friday and Saturday when the defending champions take on the Adelaide Strikers.

The match is expected to be again well supported by local fans given the Penrith connection with Naomi Stalenberg and Mikayla Hinkley among the Thunder’s playing ranks.

The recently re-signed Hinkley, who missed last Saturday’s surprise loss to the Stars at North Sydney Oval, will be hoping recent T20 form for Penrith, where she blasted an unbeaten 73 from 57 balls, will pave the way for her to be able play at Howell Oval.

The Penrith skipper says she is looking forward to the hometown support she and the Thunder will receive this week, especially with India international Harmanpreet Kaur likely to play.

“Howell Oval is a great place to play cricket and last year we were all blown away by the support we had when we played here,” Hinkley said.

“A lot of us had played in big stadiums before, but the atmosphere at Howell Oval, with more than 1,500 supporters cheering us last year on was a very special moment.

“It’d be great to see another big crowd to cheer the Thunder on and see the likes of Alex Blackwell, Stafanie Taylor and Indian international, Harmanpreet Kaur play.”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Nick Cummins, acknowledged the local support played a big part in bringing back the WBBL games to Howell Oval, citing the club’s connection with Penrith in both the women’s and men’s squads.

“It was such a great way to launch the competition last year at Howell Oval where the crowd really got behind us and to be play there again this year is a real thrill,” said Cummins.

Both of Penrith’s female cricketers, Naomi Stalenberg and Mikayla Hinkley are again set to feature this weekend for the Sydney Thunder. Photo: 77 Media.

“To play in Penrith with the links with Mikayla Hinkley, Naomi Stalenberg and Ryan Gibson, Pat Cummins in the men, there’s a real strong connection between us and the region.”

While many pundits were surprised by the Thunder’s dual title wins last season, the Sydney Thunder GM says it doesn’t really change expectations from their perspective for this season.

“I think everyone completely under-estimated the squad last year,” Cummins declared.

“We thought we had a really good chance of winning it, certainly making the finals so our expectations are no more or less coming into this season with the squad we have.

“Our expectations are to be in the top four and be amongst it when the whips are cracking.

“I think our squad last year was really good and it’s even better this year with 12 months of experience plus Harmanpreet Kaur joining.

“We all got to see what she’s capable of last Saturday night.”

Cummins says although last season’s on-field

success finally replicates the successes the franchise has achieved off it, he concedes that the title wins has resulted in an increase of interest from the general public, culminating in stronger ticketing and membership sales as well boosting corporate sponsorships.

“The past few years we’ve been doing really good work off the field and the wins last year have really validated everything that we did,” Cummins said.

“The wins have turbo-charged a lot of the things we have worked on such as memberships, ticket sales and sponsorship which has really been boosted as everyone gets excited about our success.

“Last year we had 3,000 members and at the moment we are sitting at 5,600 and we’ll exceed 6,000 by the time the season starts.

“From a ticket sales perspective the Sydney derby (which didn’t sell out last year) will sell out in the next few days.

“And sponsorships have gone up about 20% year on year. We’ve had new sponsors join us as a result of our success.”

Another sporting challenge for Emu Plains local

By Conner Lowe

EMU PLAINS local Nathan Pentecost has represented Australia in wheelchair track racing, powerlifting, and wheelchair rugby league. Nathan has excelled in all of those sports and loves a new sport to challenge his abilities so this year he signed up for lawn bowls.

Lawn bowls was once the exclusive domain for seniors, but now the sport in recent years has attracted an increasing number of younger players. Nathan will be challenging himself with his wheelchair rugby league team mate Joel Vanderzwan.

Nathan is the captain of the Penrith Panthers wheelchair rugby league team and has many sporting achievements throughout his excellent sporting career.

“I have represented Australia in three different sports and am currently the captain of the Penrith Panthers wheelchair rugby league team.

“In wheelchair track racing I was the U/18 Australian record holder in the 200m and 400m events, in powerlifting I was the U/23 Australian record holder and in 2008 I was the vice-captain for the Australian wheelchair rugby league team at the

world cup where the team earned a silver medal,” he said.

Nathan and Joel are being trained by coaches at the Penrith bowling and recreation club, with the hope that the skills and knowledge that they gain from the training can help them in local competitions. If they prove their mettle they will become good enough to enter state and even national competitions.

Nathan spoke about his end goal for lawn bowls and the reasons why he left other sports.

“I always love a new challenge, every year for a different charity I will raise money and do a 100km push around the regatta centre.

“Joel and my main goal is to represent Australia in the 2018 commonwealth games for lawn bowls. So the challenge for myself and Joel is to learn a new sport and then compete with the best and do so in such a short period of time,” he said.

Nathan also spoke about how he wanted to help lawn bowls as a sport and see it expand for the future of the sport.

“I’m hoping to find success with lawn bowls, at the moment I am enjoying the sport but I also want to promote lawn bowls and attract younger people to the sport,” he said.

Although Nathan will be spending a lot of time training and learning the skills for lawn bowls he will not be stepping down from captaining the Penrith Panthers wheelchair rugby league team.

For now, there’s plenty of hard work, practicing and training sessions in store as Nathan and Joel embark on their journey ahead.

BEHIND THE STUMPS

WITH STEW MOSES @THERIFFMARN

BLACK CATS BACK IN BUSINESS AFTER CONVINCING WIN PENRITH is back up to ninth after a successful fortnight’s cricket culminating with their best win of the season, defeating second-placed Gordon by seven wickets on the back of centuries to Tom KohlerCadmore and Jonathon Sammut.

Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl first for the first time this season, but it appeared that the change in tactics had failed when Gordon had reached 3/179.

But cometh the hour cometh the man as Josh Lalor, turned the game on its head with a devastating spell of fast bowling which had Gordon reeling at 8/199 before managing to conjure up a total 265.

But as was the case in the previous game at Howell when Northern Districts chased down a similar total with ease, Penrith through Kohler-Cadmore’s unbeaten hundred that breaks a barren run of outs for the English import along with Sammut’s second hundred of the season, never looked trouble chasing down the total.

Coach Steve Small was clearly satisfied with the result, saying that the strong performances in the club’s dual wins in the T20’s competition the previous Sunday over Blacktown and the Central Coast, was a key factor in the win against Gordon.

“3/266 is quite an imposing score line so I’m pretty happy how the game transpired,” Small declared.

“It was great to see Tommy make a hundred and also Jona converting one of the fifties he has made here earlier in the season into a hundred as well so we couldn’t ask for anything more.”

“The two wins on the Sunday in the T20 gave us impetus with the intense fielding which couldn’t be replicated at training so those two games were good, giving us a bit of momentum coming into today.”

The batsmen also responded to the challenge of having two extra bowlers in the batting line-up with Brenton Loudon making his debut, which saw Matthew Halse and Jake Wholohan listed to come in at 6 and 7 respectively.

For Kohler-Cadmore, the UK import was pleased to be able to finally post a score, but dismissed suggestions he played any differently given his first 50 came off nearly 200 balls before scoring the second fifty at a run-a-ball.

“It’s kind of been a slow start for me but nice for me to actually go out, contribute and win a game,” the Penrith opener said.

“I didn’t play any different today. I just got through the new ball and got some runs whereas last four games previously I haven’t got past ten, so it’s not like it’s been anything other than getting out early.

“They did bowl well to me, it wasn’t an easy scoring pitch really so I just sat on the pitch, waited and waited for the bowlers to give me a bad ball to hit it for four.

“It was a hard pitch to rotate the strike around so I

It’s been a big fortnight for spinner Luke Hodges, who not only continues to take key wickets when given the chance in first grade, but also became a proud father for the first time when his partner gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Jaxon Wayne last Thursday.

After Round Seven, the Black Cats are back up to fourth in the club championship, after wins in all grades except fourths. Apart from first grade, second grade find themselves in 13th position and fourths slip to seventh, while thirds (2nd) and fifths (1st) remain entrenched in the top six.

A very watchful Tom Kohler-Cadmore returns to form with a unbeaten century. Photo: 77 Media.

took my time and I knew that if I was out there at the end of the day then we would win.”

In further good news for the club, two players who lost their place in the first grade squad, Matthew Hopkins and Max McNamara, responded with match-winning efforts in second grade.

McNamara, who had not taken a wicket in first grade this season, bagged six wickets while Hopkins scored an unbeaten century.

As the club prepares to take on nemesis club, fourthplaced Bankstown this Saturday in a one-day clash that marks the final game before the Christmas break, coach Steve Small is less than impressed that neither Bankstown Oval (ground unfit for play) or Howell Oval (WBBL) is available, forcing such a crucial game to be played at third-fourth grade ground, Jensen Park.

A mixed week for some of our Black Cats playing representative cricket. Ryan Gibson missed out on the runs in both the recent Sheffield Shield clash against South Australia in Adelaide as well as the two T20 trial games for the Sydney Thunder versus Hong Kong in Orange.

But Pat Cummins was instrumental in his return to the international arena, taking wickets against New Zealand, highlighted by a 4/41 effort in the second game at Manuka Oval, as the Aussies cleanswept the Kiwis in the three-game series.

In the wake of Sammut’s second century of the summer, coach Steve Small has confirmed that the Glossodia junior, who has already scored over 600 runs in all forms of the game for the Black Cats, is on the short list for a possible call-up to the NSW Futures League side.

Having won the WNCL in convincing fashion, Lady Cats Naomi Stalenberg and Mikayla Hinkley now turn their attention to the WBBL where already the Sydney Thunder have suffered a surprise albeit close loss to the Melbourne Stars last Saturday.

While Mikayla Hinkley did not play, Naomi Stalenberg continues to impress, scoring 24 not out off 17 balls, as the defending champions failed by 6 runs to chase down the 148 total set by the Stars.

Stalenberg managed to back up the next day to help Penrith White defeat Sydney at Drummoyne Oval, scoring an unbeaten 56 off 32 balls that including one of the biggest sixes seen in recent times.

Meanwhile, Hinkley scored an unbeaten 73 runs in Penrith Black’s equally convincing win over Northern Districts at Howell Oval, earning a spot in the Thunder 13-player squad for Tuesday’s return clash with the Stars in Albury in the process.

The clash was also memorable for Mikayla’s mum, Kim Hinkley, who got to play a competitive cricket game with her daughter for the first time.

Both teams will now be looking to build on their first T20 wins of the season when the competition continues this Sunday with double-headers at Howell Oval (Black) and Graeme Thomas Oval (White).

In other representative news, congratulations to Ashley Day and Hannah Darlington who were both selected in the Under 18’s Talent Squad at the conclusion of the recent championships played in Hobart, with Hannah also securing a two-week stint with the Thunder in the process.

While Amy Edgar and Lisa Griffith (named as skipper) have been selected for the NSW Country team that will play in the Country Championships in Wollongong, during January. #LoveTheCats

27 Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

Contract talks on hold as Whare focuses on comeback

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

PENRITH Panthers centre Dean Whare, has dispelled rumours linking him with a return home to former club Manly, but has also confirmed he will put contract talks on hold until his comeback from what he describes as being the most frustrating period in his career to date, is complete.

But whilst those contractual talks have been put aside, Whare, one of a select few Panthers yet to be re-signed for 2018 and beyond, remains hopeful that he’ll extend his stay at the foot of the mountains as he approaches his fifth season as a Panther.

“I’ve put talks on hold until I start playing again and play some good footy,” Whare states.

“At the moment it’s all about me getting on the field and playing the best I can for Penrith and the contract will work itself out from there.

“I love this place. The club has been awesome, the coaching staff has been tremendous and now with the group of players we have its hard not to want to stay here.

“I’ve got a great bond with the boys and this club is heading for great things.”

Whare’s injury run over the past two seasons has been such that it has restricted the centre to just fourteen games in the past two years, and while the centre is back training again, he won’t be fully right to participate until January.

But given how bad the injuries have been for Whare over that period, he’s just happy to be able to have a pre-season given that previously, end of season tours with the Kiwis have impacted his pre-season preparations.

“It’s definitely been frustrating with a few unlucky injuries especially with my back and my bulging disc and then going into an ACL injury was really bad,” Whare affirmed.

Panthers centre, Dean Whare seen here modelling Penrith’s 2017 away jersey, says competition for spots in the outside backs can only benefit the club.

Photo: Jeff Lambert, Penrith Panthers.

“Two injuries where I felt helpless but I’ve had that time off now and I’m raring to go.”

“I haven’t had one (pre-season) in four years, being on tour all the time so whilst it’s been a tough time in my career, it’s worth it in the end having this pre-season.

“It’s been good getting the kilometres under my belt and being back with the team now is refreshing.”

Whare concedes that despite the injury setback to winger Josh Mansour, the path back to first grade won’t be easy given the emergence of Tyrone Peachey and Waqa Blake as the club’s NRL centres in 2016.

But the Kiwi international also says that competition for outside back spots between he, Peachey, Blake, Peta Hiku and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak can only benefit the club in the long run.

“It’s been great that the boys were able to go so well in the outside backs last year and it creates that pressure on myself to try and improve to get better and do as much as we can for the team,” said Whare.

“I know it has encouraged me to train a lot harder and be fitter and stronger.”

Waqa’s development as a NRL player in 2016 can ironically be attributed to Whare, having done a lot of work behind the scenes with the promising centre.

“I’ve been with Waqa the past 2-3 years and he’s come out last year and done an awesome job,” Whare said.

“He came to me with a lot of questions, how can I improve this, how can I improve that.

“I gave him the best way that I learnt, especially in regards to training drills and little things like that, to help him improve.

“He just needed a bit of game time and more consistent football to be able to progress in the manner that he has.

Waqa’s definitely a full time first grader now.”

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COACH’S CORNER

BROCK SHEPPERD NRL Level 3 High Performance Rugby League Coach Masters of Coach Education, Sydney University Listen in to the Fifth and Last NRL Podcast, available every Wednesday in the Podcast App, iTunes and on audioBoom b.shepperd@hotmail.com

MAKE PLAYING SPORT FUN AND ENJOYABLE IN previous generations junior athletes and families who participated in sport would characterise their involvement through highlighting the opportunities for players to have fun in an open and creative environment. Parents would see the benefits in having their child challenged through some degree of physical hardship and discipline. It also provided the opportunity for young players and their parents to network and build friendships through their involvement in their specific sport.

Fast forward to the current day and the reasons that players and parents become involved in sport have not changed. However the environment in which is provided to them has changed. To a large degree the fun has been taken out of sport. The younger generation has moved towards video games and technology to provide the fun, challenges and socialisation opportunities in their lives. That is the reality and we are now starting to identify potential health problems related to the trends in youth leisure activities with climbing rates of obesity and type two

lifestyle diabetes.

Rather than sampling in several different sports junior athletes tend to specialise in one sport from a very young age. Within their chosen sports the junior athletes will be specialised into a position which is predominantly based on size, natural speed or skill.

Parents and coaches are guilty of encouraging early specialisation to gain a competitive advantage. But we also need to think about the effect this is having on the young athlete.

As coaches we tend to select our team each week ensuring it is full of the best players because our mindset is to win at all costs. It is scary to see games from Under 6’s through to Under 12’s where coaches and parents treat the team as though they are elite NRL players and the sole focus is on winning.

As coaches we tend to set up our training sessions with block drills which focus on repetition to ensure the team is successful. But what are we teaching our athletes in this type of environment which is focused on winning and repetitive block skill drills? Are we

teaching the players to think and to make decisions?

Are you at times critical of your players when they make errors on the field because they made a poor decision?

This is having a flow on affect through to our major competitions and sporting teams. We are seeing a lack of creative and dynamic players at all levels of sport. With all of that stated how do we as coaches go about practically providing a better environment for our junior athletes? Firstly, we need to make playing sport fun and enjoyable. All players at all levels of sport play because they enjoy it and the friendships they build through playing the game. That needs to be the foundation of all junior coaching: Fun and engagement. Not results...

Finally, I would like to wish you and your family a safe and merry Christmas and a very happy New Year. Thank you for all your feedback and support during my first year writing this column and I hope you have enjoyed the content I have attempted to convey.

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Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

MG ON THE MARK

WITH MARK GEYER

ALL ABOARD FOR THE SILLY SEASON!

Grill Team

IT’S been a busy couple of weeks since we last chatted. Let’s start with the Grill Team’s last day for the year. For those not aware I work on breakfast radio on Triple M from 6am- 9am weekdays and our show is called the Grill Team.

When your alarm frightens you every morning around 3.30am, the last show of the year, followed by six weeks of relaxation is more than welcoming.

But this years last show was even sweeter.

We had an outside broadcast at Freshwater. At the winner of a 4 million dollar beach side mansion that was won in a RSL lottery draw. The winner and his family just happened to be Grill Team listeners and invited us to their ‘house’ for our last show. Yes please. What a great way to say goodbye to a great year. We’re back on deck on the 23rd of January, and I can guarantee you all, there will not be one alarm clock going off between now and then!!

Something else.....

Last week my wife Meagan and I along with a couple of friends, Kaz and Bobby, were invited along to the Kingswood Smash Repair Christmas

Fernhill

party at Fernhill. It was my first time there for a function, wow! A big thank you to Kristi and Rod from KSR for the invite, I didn’t know something like this existed in our little nest out West here.

I’d heard lots about it but until you go there and experience the history and beauty associated with the place you don’t get any real perspective on just how good a venue it is. We’d also like to thank Tommy our favourite South African, for entertaining us into the wee hours with his musical abilities.

And another thing....

On October 30 we (my wife and I) celebrated 24 years together as a married couple. But, because I was in Melbourne with the Grill Team for the Cup we didn’t really acknowledge the day.

Yeah I know ladies, my bad.

So to atone I booked us into Sebel Resort and Spa at Hawkesbury Valley for a day of pampering. Men, do yourselves a favour, if you want to spend a day with the love of your life that’s a bit out of your comfort zone then this is for you.

My birthday

We arrived at 8.30am, jumped into our robes then spent an hour laying side by side getting the best therapeutic massage I’ve ever gotten. Then, the facial.

Now I consider myself a bit of a man’s man and to be honest a facial has never been on the bucket list. How wrong I was. The hour spent receiving the facial felt like I’d slept for a week once finished.

I’d recommend it to everyone. Especially men who have never contemplated it. With my birthday recently falling on the 7th of December the night at the Sebel, with the unbelievable service of GM Dave Ross and his team, served as a double celebration.

And yes, I paid full fare! It was just an experience I had to tell you about such was the total and utterly high levels of de-stressing. Do yourselves a favour as Molly Meldrum would say.

See ya soon for the Nepean News Christmas special edition out next week on December 22.

MG (random Westie) OAM

penrith panthers

WITH STEW MOSES

@THERIFFMARN

PANTHERS YOUNG GUNS NAMED IN EMERGING BLUES – BUT NO PEACHEY? Penrith will supply the most number of players for NSW’s Emerging Blues Squad that will come together early next year, with Nathan Cleary perhaps registering the most amount of reaction with his selection along with Bryce Cartwright and Reagan Campbell-Gillard.

With Daley stating that all players named are a realistic chance of Origin selection if not in 2017 then certainly in the future, one name who was perhaps a surprise omission was that of Tyrone Peachey.

The omission of the Penrith utility, who at the Auckland Nines launch confirmed that he wants to fight to retain his spot in the centres despite the availability of Kiwi internationals, Dean Whare and Peta Hiku, looks to be a tough decision considering his form both in a new position coupled with his leading role as a utility in City’s big win over Country last year, makes him ideally suited as an Origin utility.

Peachey, also confirmed at the Nines launch that he hopes to play in the Nines tournament but added that will ultimately be up to the coach.

Continuing with the Origin theme and the NSWRL announced the relocation of their training base to Kingscliff, virtually just a stone’s throw away from the Queensland border for Games 1 and 3 in next year’s series.

The rights to host the Blues for Game Two in Sydney remain up for grabs with Penrith, with its facilities on offer through the new academy, certainly in the mix.

The announcement was also significant in that coach Laurie Daley has already had to respond to selection questions when the season is still months away from kicking off.

In response to the question of how to accommodate James Tedesco, Jarryd

Blacktown and Brookvale at varying stages during the season.

As part of the announcement and the unveiling of their playing strip, Manly have revealed that a number of players who featured in Penrith’s ISP team in 2016, have been signed, with Brendon Attwood, Maliko Filino, Ray Lesoa, Chris AuneseScanlan, Jerry Key, Josh Tangitau, Marli Sini, Shane Kiel and Matt Place among the names.

Another interesting signing is former Panther, Sarafu Fatiaki.

Hayne and our own Matt Moylan in the Blues line-up, Daley confirmed he will be looking to utilise all three players, suggesting that Tedesco (fullback) and Moylan (five-eighth) could very well play in their Game Three positions, while Hayne would be a leading contender to once again play in the outside-backs.

Speaking of the Auckland Nines and as confirmed in our last edition, Penrith has now released a jersey for the tournament.

The jersey, as modelled by recently re-signed centre, Waqa Blake (pictured) is similar in design to the new range of jerseys released for the 2017 season except that the gold, white and black keeps in line with the club’s off-field colour scheme rather than the 1991-inspired home and away colour scheme.

On the injury front, Tim Browne (ankle) recently had surgery in November but is expected to be back in time for the trails while Dean Whare (knee) doesn’t commence full-time training with the squad until January.

The recent Christmas party for Panthers members was nothing but a huge success with a large turn-out of fans on hand to welcome back the existing players and getting to know some of the newbies.

James Tamou was a very popular, even confirming that he had recently married his long-term partner the weekend before.

While Sitaleki Akauola proved himself to be a man of many talents, whipping up more than just the odd tasty cup of coffee.

And Moses Leota confirmed that he is excitedly counting down the days to the birth of his first child, given that the baby, which was due early in the new year, could now come as soon as Christmas.

Nepean News 15 December 2016 Issue 190

GOLDEN POINTS

31

In some further lower grades news, Penrith have made some additions to their ISP squad with Lachlan Stein (outside back – Cronulla) and Nick Lui-Toso (prop – North Queensland) joining the ranks.

Recently re-signed centre Waqa Blake models Penrith’s Auckland Nines jersey.

Photo: Penrith Panthers.

Former Panther, James Segeyaro, has confirmed that since returning to Australia from the UK, he wants out of his new deal with Leeds, who have responded in kind, slapping a transfer fee that’s in excess of $425,000 AUD and have effectively torn up his deal, which was only confirmed less than three months ago.

Whilst Segeyaro is more than entitled to seek a release on compassionate grounds, the club also needs protection particularly when the player waived his right to return to Australia back in September, yet wants a release because he is homesick less than three months later?

Plenty of interest in the launch of the Intrust Super Premiership’s newest feeder club, with Blacktown Workers formally teaming up with Manly to form the Blacktown Sea Eagles, which will play out of both

As we go to print, still 8,641 members with the club appearing to be reluctant in releasing regular updates over the past few weeks, but I am told that the actual membership numbers are up on this time last year.

It’s hard to believe that it was just over three years ago that one-time lead feeder club, Windsor Wolves played in the NSW Cup Grand Final and only last year had both Ron Massey and Sydney Shield sides one game short of making a grand final.

But in a startling revelation, Windsor has confirmed that they will be pulling out of NSWRL competitions and focus on fielding teams in the Penrith Juniors competition, including up to and including A Grade.

Finally a shout-out to our own Mark “MG” Geyer, who recently turned 49. Happy Birthday Big Fella!

See you at a game in 2017. #PantherPride

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Thursday, 15 December 2016

sport

St Dominic’s win silver at Australian School Championships

By Noel Rowsell

ST DOMINIC’S College (Kingswood) has returned from the Australian Schools Championships in Melbourne with a Silver Medal in the Under 20 Division One Men’s division.

St Dominic’s won through to the playoff rounds with a 5-1 recorded in the preliminary rounds, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Rowville Secondary School by 64-44.

St Dominic’s subsequently defeated HBA 6458 in the semi-finals to qualify for the grand final, where once again Rowville would prove invincible with a 72-45 victory to take the Gold Medal.

Head coach Leon Hine said “We (St Dominic’s) were the overall strongest defensive team in the division, despite losing starting point guard Mashwang Meshwang to injury midway through our first game”.

“Lachlan Charlton led the Division in threepoint shooting percentages and hit a ‘buzzerbeater’ against Hallem to secure a vital win”.

“Jasper Rentoy averaged 18 points per game and also led the Division in Free Throw Shooting percentages, whilst Kevin Achampong put in an outstanding effort and very consistent play all week” said Hine.

“The team maturity, execution and focus al week was refined and it was a great effort by all the players to accomplish this standing”.

The full St Dominic’s Under 20 Men’s team

Back Row: Mashweng Meshwang, Lachlan Charlton, Kevin Achampong, Chris Nicholson, Joel Klein, Alex Mackay, Leon Hine - Coach. Front Row: Jasper Rentoy, Tom Charlton, Jack Baldwin

is: Alexander Mackay, Christopher Nicholson, Jack Baldwin, Jasper Rentoy, Joel Klein, Kevin Achampong, Lachlan Charlton, Mashwang Meshwang, Thomas Charlton, head coach Leon Hine.

The St Dominics Under 17 Boys also competed in Division One in their age group but struggled from the outset, finishing well outside the major placings.