Nepean News 15 March 2024

Saints President Warren Smith OAM retires after 38 years of unparalleled leadership

ESTEEMED St Marys Leagues

Club President Warren Smith OAM chose the Season Launch on Saturday 9th March to announce his retirement from the role at the end of the month.

After 38 years of dedicated service to the Club, 35 of those as President, Mr Smith decided to step down from his role, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled leadership and commitment.

In his heartfelt farewell speech before more than 300 guests, including NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car, Mr Smith expressed gratitude for the privilege of serving as President for close to four decades.

Under his stewardship, the Club has witnessed remarkable growth including the impressive $25 million Western Foyer Development, Saints Sports Bar and Saints Event Centre, and the 4-star Holiday Inn Sydney St Marys.

Reflecting on the journey, Mr Smith highlighted the evolution of the Club’s rugby league operations and facilities over its impressive 116-year history, attributing its success to the collective efforts of the Board, staff, sponsors, volunteers, and members.

“What the Board and those that came before us have collectively

created, on and off the field at Saints is truly something special, it’s something I’m immensely proud of,” Warren Smith OAM said.

“I strongly believe that you should always try and end on a high note and looking at the Club now, I could not think of a more fitting time for me to step aside and hand the reigns over to the next generation of Saints.” Adding that his successor would be David Cartwright.

The newly appointed President expressed deep appreciation for Warren Smith’s exemplary leadership and outlined his commitment to upholding the Club’s legacy. He acknowledged the significant contributions of Mr Smith and pledged to continue his vision with the support of the Board and fellow Directors.

David has been associated with St Marys Rugby League Club for 55 years as a player, coach, trainer, mentor and on the Board of Directors. He was elected to the St Marys Rugby League Club Board in 1997 and appointed Vice President in 2013.

Rod Desborough, CEO of St Marys Rugby League Club, paid tribute to Warren Smith’s remarkable tenure and credited his leadership for the Club’s unprecedented growth and success.

“I know Warren considers it an honour and privilege to be President

of the Club, but I consider it an honour and privilege to have had Warren as my President,” Mr Desborough said.

Warren Smith’s retirement marks the end of an era for St Marys Rugby League Club but also heralds a new chapter filled with promise and continuity.

Mr Smith now transitions into the role of Inaugural Patron, his invaluable contributions will continue to inspire future generations of Club members and supporters allowing him to continue to work with, and represent, Saints in the community and at industry events.

The entire St Marys Rugby League Club community extends heartfelt

thanks to Warren Smith OAM for his unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and enduring legacy.

As the Club embarks on its next chapter, it remains committed to honouring his vision while embracing the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Warren Smith OAM career highlights:

• As ‘Wazza’ Smith, participated in the annual Variety Bash for over 20 years, driving Saints Bash Car 2760 throughout Australia, raising more than $1.3 million for children.

• 1999 St Marys Rugby League Club Life Membership

• 2014 Leagues Clubs Australia Jack Martin Award;

• 2016 NSW Rugby League John Quinn Award;

• 2017 OAM, Queen’s Birthday Honours;

• 2022 Life Membership Leagues Clubs Australia;

• …and forever a SAINT!

St Marys Rugby League Club is one of the largest junior rugby league clubs in the world. In 2024 it boasts 58 sides and over 1000 players of all ages who don the mighty green and white jersey.

The 2024 season is shaping up to be another huge year for the family and community orientated club.

Hawkesbury animal shelter launches new website

DOGS and cats have plenty to cheer about with the Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter’s new website just launched this week! Check it out yourself at https:// hawkesburycas.com.au

Council staff have been working hard behind the scenes, paw to computer, to boost adoptions at the Shelter. Thanks to recently introduced shelter management software and the teamwork of Council staff in Information Technology, communications, and the Shelter – the brand-new website offers an enhanced customer experience, whether finding a new pet or looking for a lost one.

Owners can also post stories about their adopted pets, so go online now for some heartwarming stories about pets that have found their forever home. Other sections include upcoming and past pet events, how to donate to the Shelter and Frequently Asked Questions.

It also features new ‘stakeholder lost animal search’ functions, allowing the four other councils that also use the Shelter to embed their lost pets on their own Council website if they wish. This will provide a greater service to the Hawkesbury community, and the communities of the Cumberland, The Hills, Hornsby, and Penrith Local Government Areas that are also serviced by the Shelter.

Coinciding with the new website, the Shelter also has new branded marketing material to heighten awareness and to continue to improve outcomes such as pet adoptions.

Plenty of community engagement has been happening at the Shelter for 2024 with the Kissing Booth for Valentines Day being a great hit with the community, leading to multiple adoptions of dogs and cats.

Hawkesbury residents also benefitted from the free microchipping events held in March, saving residents the cost of microchipping, and ensuring that pets can be linked back to owners if they get lost. Owners are reminded to always keep your details up to date on the pet registry so that the microchip information is current. Also have a collar and tag on pets with a current phone number so that Shelter staff can contact you if your dog is found wandering the streets, saving your pet a trip to the Shelter, and saving you release fees. We want to keep your family together!

The Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter will

also be engaging with the community at Hawkesbury Fest in July 2024 for Local Government Week at Governor Phillip Park, Windsor, so put it in your calendar to come along, and follow Council’s Facebook and Hawkesbury Events Facebook for updates.

In person, you can always meet a range of friendly dogs and cats seven days a week at the Shelter at 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave, next to the Hawkesbury Community Nursery.

For opening hours and more information, visit https://hawkesburycas.com.au or call 4560 4644.

Celebrate Harmony Week

CELEBRATE Harmony Week

at Culture Fusion, a fun free multicultural event on Saturday 23 March 2024, hosted by Penrith City Council.

The whole community is invited to enjoy the best beats, bites and performances from all over the world from 4pm to 9pm at Lang Park, St Marys.

The stage performances and workshops will take you on a trip around the globe from the Pacific Islands to India, to Europe and everywhere in between. Attendees can feel the beat with a drumming workshop by Hands, Heart, Feet. Then soak up performances from Bulgarian Rhythms, a lion dance from Emerald Dragon, belly dancing from Christalina, a didgeridoo performance from Muru Mittigar, and a traditional Persian performance by AvaZan, an all female musical group.

belonging that we hope will extend far beyond just the one day,” Cr Carney said.

Visitors can enjoy cuisine from the Middle East with Stripped Street Food From Gaza, Hawaiian fusion cuisine from The Big Big Aloha, Filipinostyle BBQ from KAYLE Pinoy Style BBQ, and more.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Harmony Week is an important national celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity that recognises our shared values of equality and freedom.

“Culture Fusion is a fun free event that celebrates Harmony Week by bringing people together from all different backgrounds. Our aim for this event is to foster a sense of inclusiveness, respect and

“Our Penrith community comes from more than 110 countries, speaks more than 80 languages and practices many different faiths and cultural traditions built on over 60,000 years of First Nations Aboriginal Cultural Heritage. We are proud to celebrate this diversity as it enriches our community and strengthens Penrith as a more resilient and welcoming City.”

“I encourage everyone to attend the event to share in exciting experiences and traditions at a fun-filled night for the whole family to enjoy,” Cr Carney said.

Funding for this project has been provided by the NSW Government through Multicultural NSW in partnership with St Marys Town Centre and Penrith City Council.

Culture Fusion will take place at Lang Park located at 9 Carinya Avenue, St Marys.

Harmony Week will be celebrated nationally from 18-24 March 2024.

To find out more visit: penrith.city/culturefusion

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

OUR seniors are literally the backbone of this country. They’re the legends among us who just get on and do what needs to be done without seeking praise or recognition. They’re resilient, they’re driven and they are wise.

They’ve been there, done that and seen it all. Younger generations, children and grandchildren are often surprised and bemused when they realise the seniors they know actually lived very exciting and colourful young lives long before they were even a thought!

And they’ve lived to tell the tale - and are able to pass on some valuable lessons to those of us who are still striving to one day get there.

Seniors take up the lion’s share of volunteering work, they form the largest group of people who fought for our country and they’re our most law-abiding citizens.

And they’re often overlooked when it comes to listing what is great about this country.

They’ve lived through times that younger generations could never imagine –they’ve survived depressions when sometimes the family meal consisted of bread and dripping, they’ve lived without television, computers, mobile phones and facebook.

As kids they often had to share beds, clothes and even bathtub water.

Yet they never complained. They rolled with the punches and came out smiling. Seniors Festival Week is the time of year to celebrate all that is great about seniors.

If you’re not a senior, take some time to talk with one. Your mum, dad, grandparent, neighbour or someone at the club – and ask them about their life. Chances are you’ll find some qualities that I desperately hope don’t disappear when their generation eventually does; like good manners and respect. Bless you seniors, for all you’ve endured and all you continue to contribute; you really are our brightest shining light in a changing society.

New Service NSW in Glenmore Park

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE NSW Government is expanding access to Service NSW Centres for the residents of western Sydney, with a new Service NSW Centre officially opening at Glenmore Park.

Close to 50,000 customer visits are expected at Glenmore Park Service Centre in the first year, with communities in Glenmore Park, Jamisontown, Emu Plains, Glenbrook and surrounding areas set to benefit the most from the new Service NSW Centre.

The new centre offers a third option for people living in the foot of the Blue Mountains alongside the Penrith and Springwood Service NSW centres, with team members able to assist customers with a range of transactions such as licence renewals, Working with Children Check renewals and Owner-Builder permits.

Driver testing will also be accommodated at the Glenmore Park Service NSW Centre, with about 80 tests available each week.

“I am pleased to see the people of Glenmore Park and the surrounding communities, including Emu Plains and Glenbrook, will now have a Service NSW Centre right on their doorstop,” said Londonderry MP and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car.

“Western Sydney is home to many busy, hardworking families, and it is so important that our mums and dads have the services they need where they live.

“Opening facilities like this in growing communities means families are not spending unnecessary time away from one another while doing things like getting their licence renewed.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said Glenmore Park is one of many fastgrowing suburbs in Sydney’s west and this new Service NSW Centre will help ensure locals can easily access government services and transactions.

“The one-stop-shop Service NSW is about making people and business owners’ lives easier, whether it’s accessing cost-of-living support or applying for a Seniors Card,” Minister Dib said.

“Customer service is a priority at Service NSW Centres, with visitors greeted by a concierge and guided to the support and assistance they need, so they can complete their transaction more quickly and get on with their day.”

The centre is located on Level 1 of HomeCo. Glenmore Park Town Centre at 33 Town Terrace and is open Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm and Saturday 8:30am – 12:30pm.

For more information on the Glenmore Park Service Centre, visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/ service-centre/glenmore-park-service-centre

NSW public hospitals to begin safe staffing roll out

THE NSW Government is rolling out a major staffing reform set to boost the number of frontline healthcare workers in NSW public hospitals.

The government says the safe staffing levels rollout will see more nurses and midwives in NSW public hospitals between now and July 2027.

The new minimum staffing requirements will be rolled out in stages, starting at hospitals with emergency departments (EDs) that treat the most critically ill patients, and will be progressively implemented across other hospital departments.

The move follows extensive discussions at the Safe Staffing Levels Taskforce, responsible for the implementation of the Government’s commitment.

The Taskforce includes key leaders from the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association and New South Wales Health.

The safe staffing reforms will be first implemented at Liverpool Hospital and Royal North Shore Hospital EDs. The Safe Staffing Taskforce will review this initial rollout and use it to inform the roll out to future sites, which it will continue to oversee.

Phase one of the roll out will see a one-to-one nursing care ratio for generally occupied ED resuscitation

beds on all shifts, and one nurse to three generally occupied ED treatment spaces and ED short-stay units.

The NSW Government’s hospital safe staffing levels reforms forms part of a broader range of measures designed to build an engaged, capable and supported workforce, including:

• Saving 1,112 temporary nurses by making them permanent;

• Abolishing the wages cap and delivering record pay increases for nurses, paramedics and other health workers, as well as salary packaging;

• Beginning to roll out 500 additional paramedics in regional, rural and remote communities; and

• Doubling the health worker study subsidies.

The government states these

reforms will improve conditions and staff experience and, in turn, boost retention, capacity and capability.

“This Government continues to deliver on its commitment to ensuring our hospitals have the frontline healthcare workers they need to continue to deliver safe, highquality care to patients. This reform will mean more nurses providing frontline care to the people of NSW,” NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said.

“We listened to the nurses, midwives, patients and other stakeholders who have told us of the need for these changes and have acted to ensure we have a health system that delivers the best care possible for all of NSW, now and into the future.

“This important reform will deliver improved experiences and outcomes of care for patients while backing essential frontline workers in all corners of the state.

“It will help retain our existing staff while also helping attract our future workforce.

“When we boost and support our health workforce, we will see improved health outcomes. It’s as simple as that.

“I want to thank the Safe Staffing Taskforce for their work to bring this Government’s commitment to fruition.”

Airport Metro’s northern tunnel borers now half-way to St Marys

TWO tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are halfway to St Marys after each building 2.4 kilometres of tunnel for the gamechanging Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project.

TBMs Catherine and Marlene reached the milestone when they broke through at the Claremont Meadows services facility shaft, after launching at the Orchard Hills Station site in July and August 2023 respectively.

Tunnelling at an average speed of 120 metres a week, the TBMs are carving out the twin 4.3-kilometre tunnels to the new St Marys Metro Station site.

They have removed 600,000 tonnes of spoil so far, enough to fill about 95 Olympic swimming pools, and installed 17,820 precast concrete segments as they tunnelled under the M4 Motorway to the 21-metre-deep services shaft.

The TBMs will now traverse the 16-metre-diameter services shaft, which is used to supply materials like concrete and steel, before being relaunched to complete their journey. They are expected to reach St Marys in mid-2024.

A further two TBMs, Eileen and Peggy, are building the two 5.5-kilometre southern tunnels from Airport Business Park to the

Aerotropolis. Both are respectively about 3 kilometres into their journeys and are due to arrive at the Aerotropolis in late 2024.

The Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport line will be operational when the new international airport opens for passenger services, with the end-to-end journey time between the St Marys Metro Station and Aerotropolis Station to take around 20 minutes.

Visit sydneymetro.info/ westernsydneyairportline for more information about the project.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said we are one step closer to seeing transformative public transport delivered for Greater Western Sydney.

“When the new metro line opens, passengers will have a world-class transport option directly to the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and major job hubs, including the new Aerotropolis,” Minister King said.

NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen said the fleet of tunnel boring machines is making big strides as they carve out the key pieces of this

23-kilometre mega project.

“Once completed, this new cityshaping metro line will service travellers and airport workers with major population centres like Penrith, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD via St Marys,” Minister Haylen said.

“New suburbs will be able to grow around this brand-new metro line, giving Western Sydney the opportunity to attract new jobs and housing opportunities.

“I thank residents for their patience while we build this vital airport link,” added Senator for NSW Tony Sheldon.

Artist’s impression of St Marys Station.

New skate park and water play for Penrith this year

LOCAL families, teenagers and young children will have more exciting spaces to enjoy when the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct opens this year.

A variety of equipment for all ages has been installed in the new children’s play areas, with a large water play area a key feature of the design as well as a flying fox, climbing tower, slides, accessible spinners and trampolines, shade, and much more.

Construction of the youth precinct is also progressing with asphalt laid for the 245-metre pump track, beginner and intermediate skate bowls built within the skate park, floodlighting installed, and two multi-sport courts surfaced.

Parkour equipment, outdoor table tennis, a toilet block, public artwork, seating, shelters, and bike racks will also be installed in the youth precinct.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said it was important for young residents to have spaces that encouraged them to play, be active and socialise.

“We listened to the community who told us play areas, and particularly water play, was most important to them in the design of Gipps Street,” Cr Carney said.

“The play area will be located close to car parking and the main amenities

building with toilet facilities to make it as easy as possible for families to bring their kids and spend time here.”

“The community also voiced strong support for more sports courts and a skate park with pump track, so I’m thrilled that Council is delivering this plus plenty more for teenagers to enjoy in the youth precinct.”

Once complete, the 32-hectare precinct will also feature floodlit sports fields, netball courts, cricket practice facilities, a floodlit dog park, outdoor fitness equipment, amenities building with canteen, picnic areas, walking trails, and car parking.

The $44.5 million Gipps Street

Recreation Precinct project is proudly funded by Council and the NSW Government who are contributing a combined $13.5 million.

NSW Government funding includes the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program ($7 million), MultiSport Community Facility Fund ($5 million), Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund ($1 million), and the Places to Play Program ($500,000).

Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car said the community has waited almost 20 years for this to become a reality and she is thrilled that it is finally coming to life.

“The precinct is a great example

of governments – local and state –working together for the benefit for the local community who will soon be able to enjoy state-of-the-art facilities right on their doorstep.”

The Gipps Street Recreation Precinct will open in mid-2024.

Find out more at: yoursaypenrith. com.au/gippsst

For more information on the Places to Play program please visit: www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policyand-legislation/open-space/openspaces-program/places-to-play

You can also check out the latest progress here: https://youtu.be/sH WVLfUwwu8?si=rh1Vkhby7TAE mI2Z

Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car with Penrith Mayor Todd Carney checking out the latest progress in the children’s play areas in the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct.

Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Londonderry Prue Car with Penrith Mayor Todd Carney in the water play area which is under construction in the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct.

The Vandalisation of the Nashos Plaque in Victoria Park

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

IHAVE no idea why anyone would desecrate memorials within Australia. They are there to commemorate the significance of a person, people and the history of our great country. Maybe they didn’t understand the significance of this memorial, so I am going to remind them of the service these soldiers did to deserve the National Serviceman’s plaque. Most of them had just left school, and probably some were in the school cadets, but nothing like what they were being called up for by their birthday date and an Australian wide lottery. So this is for all of those brave young soldiers who fought in a very deadly battle. The 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) is a mechanised infantry battalion of the Australian Army that was based in Kepong Lines, Townsville as part of the 3rd Brigade. 3RAR traces its lineage to 1945 and has seen operational service in Japan, Korea, Malaya, Borneo, South Vietnam, Rifle Company Butterworth, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, Afghanistan and Iraq. They served two tours in South Vietnam, the first from December 1967 with the battalion stationed in Phuoc Tuy province as part of the 1st Australian Task Force. The battalion took part in several operations and was involved in mine clearing, counter mortar, rocket tasks and reconnaissance in force operations. Between December 1967 and March 1968 Whisky Company from the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment was attached to 3RAR as an additional rifle company for various phases of battalion operations. As the ready reaction force ‘A’ Company 3RAR was responsible for clearing and securing the nearby provincial capital of Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu during the Tet Offensive of February 1968. The battalion was then committed to Operation Coburg in February and March. During 26th–28th May 1968, 3RAR, while stationed at FSB Balmoral in a battalion defensive position, withstood two determined assaults by regimental sized units of the North Vietnamese People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN) during the Battle of Coral–Balmoral. The battalion also played a role in Operation Toan Thang in April–May 1968. It was relieved by 9RAR in November 1968 and the battalion returned to Woodside, South Australia. During its first tour of Vietnam the battalion lost 24 killed and 93 wounded. On the 8th May 1970 a group of soldiers from 3RAR who had served in South Vietnam attacked 1,000 Moratorium marchers who were peacefully protesting

against the war in Adelaide. This led to 21 soldiers facing disciplinary charges, including five who had been arrested by police and faced civil charges. The Army disciplinary heading led to at least 16 of the soldiers being fined or imprisoned for a short period. At least three of the soldiers were convicted when their cases were heard by the Adelaide Magistrate’s Court. Two did not receive a penalty and the other received a small fine. On 25th February 1971 the battalion returned to Phuoc Tuy Province and relieved 7RAR. It was based at Nui Dat and the Horseshoe. 3RAR joined with the work of pacification. The First Australian Task Fource (1ATF) had adopted the “Pacification Program” as its first priority in April 1969. Pacification involved seeking out and destroying the enemy in its base areas, preventing enemy access to the civilian population and helping to create a secure climate for South Vietnamese social, political and military life to develop. This work was demanding, dangerous and monotonous for the troops. It was the primary task carried out by the battalion during its second tour. By 1971 American and Australian forces in South Vietnam had reduced significantly and under President Nixon’s Vietnamization program U.S and allied forces undertook the process of handing military operations back to the South Vietnamese forces. The Vietnam’s People’s Armed Forces (PAVN) included Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Border Guard and Coast Guard took this opportunity to try and re-enter areas that they had been previously forced out of earlier. This included the Australian and New Zealand Tactical area of responsibility of Phuoc Tuy Province. During the second tour the 3RAR battalion took part in several actions and was involved in an attack of fierce fighting on an enemy bunker system in the Long Khanh province against well-trained PAVN regular forces as part of Operation Overlord (6-7 June). The bunker system was captured by the battalion, along with a second bunker system further south. On the 1st October the battalion ceased its offensive operational commitment and returned to Nui Dat before returning to Australia by the end of 1971 after an eight-month tour. The battalion departed Vietnam arriving in Fremantle on 16th October and was replaced by 9RAR. During these operations 3RAR lost four killed and 27 wounded.

Sources: Wikipedia online, Australian War Memorial website.

 3RAR soldiers South Vietnam during a January 1968 operation.

Celebrating our local leading ladies

BY KERRIE DAVIES

AS we celebrated International Women’s Day on 8 March 2024, the theme this year is ‘Inspire Inclusion’.

Our three local state members presented “Woman of the Year” awards to leading ladies in their respective electorates.

Penrith MP Karen McKeown OAM said it was exciting to announce the recipients of the Penrith Local Woman of the Year and the Local Young Woman of the Year.

“There were 15 nominations received for local Penrith women this year, it was a hard task to award just two local women from all the talent that we have here in Penrith,” Mrs McKeown said.

“The recipient of the Penrith Local Woman of the Year 2024 is Julia Parashko. Julia is a local teacher at Penrith Selective Highschool and works as a singing tutor after hours. Julia volunteers her amazing skills at various charity events by acting as event MC and singer at no cost. She is also involved with the committee for ‘Relay for Life’, as well as volunteering for the various ‘Pink Up Penrith’ events, the Emu Plains Christmas carols, and Christmas Tree Lighting. Julia also undertakes fundraising for the Cancer Council, and has offered years of service to the RSL, singing the national anthem.

“Our Penrith Local Young Woman of the Year 2024 is Lucinda Harvey. Lucinda founded the organisation “Saving True Blues” at the age of 19 after the tragic loss of a close friend to suicide. Saving True Blues is a state-wide initiative, that through programs such as the ‘4WD & CAMP 4 MENTAL HEALTH’, provides people a platform to have those important and difficult conversations about mental health. Saving True Blue also sells clothes, and every month, 10% of the profit is donated directly to Lifeline Australia.

“It was an honor to present Penrith Woman of the Year to Julia while acknowledging Lucinda as the

Penrith Young Woman of the Year at our

In the Badgerys Creek electorate, Tanya Davies MP spoke of the importance of recognising International Women’s Day.

“We celebrate the achievements and recognise the value of all women,” Mrs Davies said.

“I congratulate the exemplary service of Badgerys Creek Local

Deputy Premier, Londonderry MP Prue Car announced that Sharon Le Ban had received the Woman of the Year for the Londonderry electorate.

“Sharon’s leadership at Claremont Meadows Public School has been nothing short of remarkable,” Ms Car said.

“Her efforts took the school to

new heights, transforming into a thriving hub that has become integral to the communities of Caddens and Claremont Meadows.

“Under her guidance, the school’s support unit has also developed a strong reputation with local families.

“Congratulations Sharon, I cannot commend you enough for all you do.”

Nepean News would like to congratulate all of our our local leading ladies. Well done!

Annual International Women’s Day event at Penrith RSL.”

Woman of the Year, Leisa McGivern OAM, to over 60 foster children over the past 24 years.”

Penrith’s Local Young Woman of the Year 2024 is Lucinda Harvey. Pictured with Karen McKeown MP OAM.

Tanya Davies MP with Badgerys Creek Local Woman of the Year, Leisa McGivern OAM.

Penrith Local Woman of the Year 2024 Julia Parashko with Karen McKeown MP OAM.

Londonderry MP Prue Car with Sharon Le Ban, the Woman of the Year for Londonderry.

Cherishing the Golden Years: Celebrating the Legacy of Senior Pets

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

OUR homes are enriched by the comforting presence of our furry companions, who, over the years, have bestowed upon us a profound gift – a lifetime of unwavering love. As our pets gracefully transition into their golden years, it becomes our noble duty to repay their loyalty with the care and consideration that befits their distinguished status.

The first step in honouring our senior pets is understanding their unique needs and challenges. As our faithful

friends age, they often encounter a range of health issues that necessitate tailored care. Arthritis, dental problems, vision and hearing impairments, and organ-related ailments are common companions of old age. Regular veterinary check-ups become crucial to identify and address these issues early on, allowing us to provide timely interventions and ensure our pets’ continued well-being.

Creating a comfortable environment is paramount to the happiness of senior pets. Soft, orthopaedic bedding aids in alleviating joint pain, while maintaining a warm and draft-free living space is essential for their overall comfort. Accessible water bowls and litter boxes accommodate any mobility issues, making daily routines more manageable.

One prevalent concern in older pets is arthritis, a condition that can severely impact their mobility. Gentle exercises, such as short walks or moderate play sessions, can help manage arthritis

FRIENDS of Hawkesbury

MEET TUBBS ~ HE WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU

Tubbs is a beautiful middle-aged boy that has been waiting to meet the family that will open their home to him. Tubbs is a happy, outgoing dog that sits when asked. Tubbs will need further basic obedience training and a family that have the time to include him in their daily life. To meet this gorgeous boy, please visit anytime during open hours.

Cost: $99.00 Age: 7 years Type: Dog

Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier Sex: Male

symptoms. Moreover, the market offers a variety of joint supplements and medications that, when prescribed by a veterinarian, can enhance our pets’ quality of life by easing pain and inflammation.

Dental care is another critical aspect of senior pet health. Dental diseases can lead to discomfort, difficulty eating, and even systemic health issues. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, combined with dental-friendly treats and toys, contribute to maintaining good oral hygiene.

Emotional well-being is equally vital for senior pets. Spending quality time together, engaging in low-impact activities, and providing mental stimulation through toys or puzzles can counteract feelings of loneliness or anxiety. Our pets thrive on routine, and maintaining a consistent schedule helps reduce stress and fosters a sense of security.

Celebrating senior pets goes

beyond meeting their physical needs; it involves a genuine commitment to their holistic health and happiness. These remarkable companions, who have given us a lifetime of unconditional love, deserve nothing less than our unwavering devotion as they navigate the golden years of their lives. By understanding their unique requirements and embracing a proactive approach to their care, we can ensure that our senior pets continue to be cherished members of our families, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

KING CHARLES NEEDS A LOVING HOME

Charles is a sweet boy that has been with us a while now. In his previous life he was an outdoor cat and it will take him time to adjust to indoor / outdoor living. Charles loves to be the king of the castle and does like a pat and scratch behind the ears. Charles is available now so please come and meet him...

Cost: $99.00 Age: 3 years Type: Cat

Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Male

Bart has been at the shelter a while now and whilst with us, he’s been very well behaved, gentle and an overall calm dog who loves to be with people. Bart is happy to just chill out most of the day and we’ve had no problems with him in the exercise yards, next to other dogs. If you are interested in adopting this sweet boy, please come to the shelter to meet him with your family dog and the children.

Cost: $49.00 Age: 7 years Type: Dog

Breed: American Staffy

Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to

Mary Snape’s 104th Birthday

BY NOEL ROWSELL

MARY Snape (St Marys) turned 104 last week and celebrated with friends and residents at Boronia House, along with a family lunch at St Marys Leagues Club.

Born in Greenwich, England in 1920, Mary spent her childhood in England, meeting her future husband Walter in his parent’s fruit shop.

Mary was the 3rd of 7 children, enduring a harsh life following the death of her father when she was just 9 years of age.

Mary’s mother used to work night shift at the hospital, leaving the care of the children to the eldest among them.

One of Mary’s fondest memories as a child is playing with her siblings on the sunken Cutty Sark in the River Thames.

As a young woman at the start of WW11, Mary worked with her sister in the Land Army in Herefordshire, before working at Woolwich Arsenal (near London), making ammunition for the Allied Forces. On one occasion, the women working in the arsenal spent the night underground, during the bombing of London by the Luftwaffe (German Air Force). Another of her early fond memories is the camaraderie of the young women who worked in the Land Army.

Walter was called up to fight in WW11 but obtained special leave to marry Mary in St Dunstan’s Church, Bellingham, Kent in 1941, before heading out to rejoin the Allied Forces.

He was captured and subsequently transferred from Tripoli on the Italian Ship Ariosto, bound for Sicily, before the ship was sunk by the British, not aware the ship was carrying Allied Prisoners of War, resulting in the loss of over 100 British POW’s.

Walter however was subsequently among many British POW’s rescued by two other Italian ships, Premuda and Polluce, which were bound for Palermo.

Walter’s ship conveyed his group on the first part of their journey, with the final destination an Italian Prisoner of War camp (Campo 65 in Gravena, Puglia).

Following the war, Mary and Walter had five children (Terrence, Carolyn, Adrian, Elaine, Barbara), living for a time at Westwood Farm whilst Walter worked as a Quality Control Inspector. The couple also owned and operated a Pet Shop in Beckenham. As a young woman, Mary had a dream she would have 5 children and move to Australia. In 1965, Mary, Walter and the children emigrated to Australia, following 4 years of submissions to approve their move Down Under.

Following their month long sea voyage, the family eventually settled in Guildford in 1965 and would live in the suburb until 2005, with the extended family stretching to include 13 grandchildren, 25 greatgrandchildren and 2 great-great-

grandchildren.

Mary and Walter were described by their children as rock hounds, a different style of Grey Nomads. “They loved fossicking,” said Barbara and Adrian.

Walter suffered with a mild case of

Mary moved to the Mountain View Over 50’s Retirement Village in 2005 and would live there until 2017, when she moved to Boronia House.

Explaining her longevity, Mary said she didn’t smoke, seldom drank alcohol, has a positive attitude, always seeing the bright side of things and the best in people. “I also have the best children,” said Mary.

Polio in 1956, at the age of 36, which would keep him from work for the ensuing 6 months. He later passed away in 2000.

Seniors Week in Penrith CBD

11th-24th March 2024

The two Ians: outstanding local seniors

BY KERRIE DAVIES

ST CLAIR locals Ian Pike and Ian Baistow have each been awarded the prestigious 2024 NSW Seniors Local Achievement Award by Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek.

Mr Pike’s award is in recognition of his commitment as a Committee Member of St Clair & District Men’s Shed’s Building Committee since 2016 and for his services as President and newly appointed Secretary of the St Clair & District Men’s Shed.

Mr Baistow’s award is in recognition of his commitment as a Foundation Member of Cecil’s Place, which was the precursor to the St Clair & District Men’s Shed, for his services as Treasurer and as a Committee Member of the Shed’s Building Committee overseeing the construction and fit-out of the new Men’s Shed.

Mrs Davies commended the award recipients, stating “Mr Pike’s and Mr Baistow’s service to the Men’s Shed has enriched the lives of members of the Men’s Shed, as well as the countless organisations and community members who benefit from the contributions of the Men’s Shed.”

Mr Pike reflected on his service as a Committee Member since Incorporation,

whilst Mr Baistow reflected on his service as a Foundation Member, with both men expressing their appreciation and crediting their fellow members of the Men’s Shed.

“We are honoured to accept this award. We could not do our jobs without the co-operation

of every member of the Shed,” the gentlemen stated.

The awards coincided with the largest senior’s festival in the southern hemisphere taking place across the state.

The two-week event, which runs until Sunday, 24 March 2024, aims to recognise the contributions of our older generations.

More than 500,000 people take part in the event in NSW each year, and this year’s theme is Reach Beyond!

Mrs Davies said the festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate seniors in the community.

“Our seniors are such a valued part of our community, and I express my wholehearted thanks to them for the knowledge and achievements they have passed down through generations,” Mrs Davies said.

“As part of the festival, there are a range of events across the state including art classes, fitness and live music, as well as events that can be accessed online. I encourage you to spread the word to make sure all seniors can take advantage of the NSW Seniors Festival events.”

The NSW Senior’s Festival has been running for over four decades, providing entertainment and improving our seniors’ quality of life.

For more information visit: www.nsw.gov.au/ arts-and-culture/seniors-festival

Seniors Week

Senior’s week celebrates and acknowledges the important role that seniors play in our local Penrith community. The 2024 NSW Senior’s Festival theme is “Reach Beyond”

I encourage the Penrith community to seek out new experiences and make new friends, by ‘reaching beyond’.

Please see below websites for useful information:

2024 Senior’s Directory: www.nsw.gov.au/community-services/seniorscard/deals-discounts/discount-directories

Senior’s Community Services: www.nsw.gov.au/community-services/seniors

My Website: www.karenmckeown.com.au

Sign up to receive my newsletter: www.karenmckeown.com.au/news/newslettersign-up/

pictures This week in

Photos supplied by Richard Fox

International Women’s Day: the NSW Government ladies pictured with Premier Chris Minns.

A happy day at Penrith SES, who assisted in the search for Hussein, the missing boy with Downs Syndrome. After two long days he was found safe and well. A great outcome!

Penrith CBD Corp’s Coffee Catch up held at Penrith RSL.

Eleven canoe sprint paddlers have been selected for the Australian Olympic Team for Paris, with the announcement made on Saturday morning at the Sydney International Regatta, Penrith.

Aly Bull, Alyce Wood and Riley Fitzsimmons will contest their third Games, with Bull and Wood equalling the most Australian Olympic appearances for Australia for sprint canoe women with Anna Wood (1992-2000).

The full team is Tom Green, Jean van der Westhuyzen, Ally Clarke, Yale Steinepreis, Ella Beere, Noah Havard, Pierre van der Westhuyzen, Jackson Collins, Bull, Wood and Fitzsimmons.

A big happy 50th to well known charity auctioneer, TK aka Troy Kennedy. Pictured here with Andrew Paech.

Australian icon Pete Murray heading to Panthers!

BY KERRIE DAVIES

PETE Murray is heading to Penrith! We are teaming up once again with Panthers to give away two double passes and some free merch!

To go in to the draw, simply email us at nepeannews@aol.com with your favourite Pete Murray song in the subject heading by midnight on March 18.

Pete Murray is one of an elite group of Australian artists to have sold over 1.2 million records across his illustrious, 20-plus year career in music. He also achieved 3 ARIA chart-topping albums to date (2003’s FEELER, 2006’s SEE THE SUN and 2008’s Summer at Eureka) and has been nominated for a whopping 17 ARIA Awards.

Pete is one of Australia’s most loved singer songwriters. The quiet achiever of Australian music is committed to constantly growing and evolving as an artist and gets a thrill from offering fans new and exciting material with each release.

Renowned for his meaningful song writing, Pete’s songs cut to the core of human experience while also providing hope and helping listeners find he strength to carry on through rough times.

Nepean News spoke with Pete about his amazing career.

1. As a child, did you dream of being an artist or did you have other plans/goals?

Haha no way did I ever think I would be an artist. My first dream was to be an astronaut and a world champion surfer. I watched a movie about an astronaut and a surfer. I can’t remember what they were but I was obviously taken by both careers. The surfer one was a funny one because I lived in a small country town called Miles and there was no surf for miles!

2. What has been your most most enjoyable career moment?

I have done a lot of fantastic things in my career, playing in festivals around the world and having thousands of people at gigs singing my lyrics back to me but the thing I love the best is having my family come to my shows and sing with me. My eldest son Charlie has started playing with me a lot now which is so cool. Just having my family there at shows enjoying themselves is great.

3. What is the funniest thing that ever happened to you (whilst on tour perhaps?)

After being on the road for some time I woke up in a hotel apartment one night and needed to go to the toilet. As I got out of

bed I walked straight into the wall. I stopped and thought what the hell is going on. I thought where am I? What Hotel am I in? What city am I in? What country am I in? I had no idea where I was. I had to go to the window, and I looked out the window for about 3 - 4 minutes until I realised I was back home in Australia in Sydney. Then I just had to find the light switch and then the toilet!

4. How did you cope during lockdown?

Living in Byron Bay during lockdown was actually pretty good. We could get out and go the beach for a surf. It was pretty amazing seeing the town so dead which it never is. I also worked on some new music which was good.

2 DOUBLE PASSES TO BE WON!

5. What can people going to the gig at Panthers expect from your show?

My band is one of the best in the county so it’s pretty amazing to watch them play. Also lots of old songs and lots of singing along. I really work at getting the crowd involved so they feel like they are part of the show not just watching it.

6. What’s your favourite song to perform?

There’s a few. I like songs that people sing along to like Better Days, Opportunity, Feeler and So Beautiful but I also like playing songs like Fall Your Way which lets the band off the leash and has a great groove.

Group shot of those present on the day. Organised by Melissa McIntosh Federal MP.

International Women’s Day at Penrith Log Cabin: Kristy (Insta Care), Gina (NRS Security), Lana (Mamma Lana) and Samantha Talakola.

mother-daughter nurses caring

Warren

Celebrating Elvis’s Iconic career on the 40th Anniversary of his passing. Gone but not forgotten. Fabulous event at Penrith Leagues.

CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Landslide (9)

6 Form of Japanese poetry (5)

9 Threshold (7)

10 Pulled away (7)

11 Indigenous people (7)

12 Gourmet (7)

13 Farmers (9)

15 Nerds (5)

16 Gateaux (5)

19 Beau (9)

22 Has a mint flavoring (7)

23 Moved down (7)

25 Painkiller (7)

26 Stress (7)

27 Tugs (5)

28 Photographs (9)

DOWN

1 With the end toward the observer (5)

2 Male chicken (7)

3 Nevertheless (7)

solution 1/3/24

4 Chasm (5)

5 In an illegal manner (9)

6 Paying attention (7)

7 Trespass (7)

8 Stripped (9)

13 Travel along with (9)

14 It transports patients (9)

17 The most important person in a group (7)

18 Orbs (7)

20 Reverses the tape to the beginning (7)

21 Not later (7)

23 Ease (5)

24 Consumes food (5)

solutions: EASY and medium (top) 1/3/24

“WHAT do I do? My system doesn’t work and the company that did the installation have disappeared”.

We hear this way to often and it is a real shame that there are Sales companies out there promising the world at a cheap price to close a sale.

In the nine years Nepean Solar Solutions has been in Penrith, we have been called to repair and at times replace systems that were installed by these ghost companies and when there is an issue the customer has been left without support.

There are some ways to detect if the Solar company you are dealing with is reputable and professional. Check

Jim’s Gems

how they go about assisting you from the beginning. A professional will request some information such as recent electricity bills and perhaps a photo of your meter box.

This is the basic information required to commence a design. The electricity bills are used to determine the average daily electricity consumption over a period, excluding any appliance rates such as the controlled rate HWS or EV charging rates (yes there are specific cheap rates to charge the new electric car you have purchased).

How much you are paying each month or quarter may give us a rough idea on the usage but with such a widespread on prices per kWhr it will only be an educated guess. Remember we are trying to design the best system for you and your household.

From this we can generally determine a suitable size for your home and estimated price.

To confirm the size and suitability, we also need to conduct a site visit to look at any access issues, overall safety, locations for the setting up of our safety equipment and also to show

you what we propose and discuss alternative options with you.

If someone was to sell you a system over the phone, they will be focussing on what gets them a sale – period. They will have no consideration to you or your future requirements, you will have no after sales service nor anyone to call should you have a problem.

The are several good quality companies that are local, have plenty of experience and will offer you a system that will suit you at a reasonable price.

Remember, this is a long-term investment that shouldn’t be put out to market to get the cheapest price. A calculated payback price on the back of a beer coaster is only as good as the company that supplies and installs it and there is no payback on a system that doesn’t work.

If you have a question about your system or a question in general regarding Solar or Solar battery storage and you would like to learn more, please email me info@ nepeansolar.com.au or call our office on 4760 0809.

40 percent of Australians retiring with mortgage debt and rising

WITH STEVE BEARD Select Mortgage Broker

THE introduction of the government pension in 1900 for people over 60 and later compulsory superannuation in 1992 assumed that Australians would own their home outright by retirement age. It was an entirely rational assumption, given the data at the time. Keep in mind that at Federation, only four percent of the population lived past 65. Men could be expected to live to 55 and women to 59 years of age. The problem with organisations is that once rules are in place, they are rarely questioned and are enforced blindly. So, unless somebody dares to ask ‘why?’ these rules tend to continue long after they no longer make sense.

Which is what leads us to our current problem.

As homeownership rates decline and with 40 percent of Australians retiring with mortgage debt, those original assumptions are failing. What the

government of the time couldn’t have foreseen was the insidious effect of monetary debasement, which has always led to a rapid reduction in the purchasing power of money over time. We can see empirical evidence for this nearly everywhere we look, but in particular, it has caused house prices to continue to outstrip wage increases monotonically since at least the mid-1900s.

The Australian Housing Urban Research Institute (AHURI) estimates that 440,000 older households will not be able to find or afford suitable housing by 2031. Retirees in Australia are increasingly using their superannuation savings to pay off their mortgage debt, making them more reliant on the government aged pension to survive. Around 40 percent of singles and 33 percent of couples will use their entire superannuation balance to pay off their mortgage debt.

A report released by the Grattan Institute indicated that the proportion of Australians over 65 who own a home will fall from 76 percent today to 57 percent by 2056. The implication is that the

future looks harder than ever for each younger age cohort. More people will be renting, while others will carry higher levels of mortgage debt. The result of the central bank policies has always lead to the same outcome – a widening of the wealth gap and a hollowing out of the middle class. Unfortunately, we are forced to choose which side of the wealth divide we want to belong to. If we continue along this path without taking action, the retirement system will be unable to cope with the additional load in the future.

As a result, the only real solution is to boost your potential retirement nest egg to supplement your super. And one of the best ways to do this is to invest in good residential properties that will hopefully continue to grow in value over the longer term.

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

BY NOEL ROWSELL

ROWING NSW is pleased to announce the following athletes, based at the Hancock Prospecting Women’s National Training Centre (NTC) in Penrith, have been selected in the NSW State Team for the 2024 Kings and Queens Cups Interstate Regatta.

Tara Rigney – Nell Slatter Trophy; Georgie Rowe, Harriet Hudson,

Laura Gourley, Rowena Meredith, Samantha Morton – Queen’s Cup.

Jason Waddell (pictured) from the Nepean Rowing Club has also been chosen in the Men’s Lightweight Four, which will race in the Penrith Cup.

“It has been another big season in preparation of making this state team, with many early mornings and long sessions. It has been an enjoyable process and journey to get to this point, and now that I have

made the team, I’m looking forward to executing all that hard work come race day,” said Jason.

“It is very exciting being named in the NSW state team. This will be the 10th state Rowing team in which I have represented, with my first team being back in 2007. I am now the older athlete in the squad, so I hope I can impart some knowledge and skills to the others in the boat that will give us an advantage come race day.”

Jason Waddell at the presentation dinner and training on the Nepean River. Photos supplied.

Windsor Polo Club hosts International Royalty in April

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE NSW Polo Association and Windsor Polo Club welcome the 2024 Polo International to the Windsor Polo Club (WPC) on Sunday 7th April, when Australia will host India in a Men’s International match.

Teneille Murray, spokesperson for the NSW Polo Association, said “It has been over 18 years since India last played Australia on our home soil. It’s high time we are having them back. With Australia taking home the win in the last match, India will be coming back even stronger than ever.

“Adding to the allure of this year’s tournament is the confirmed participation of His Highness Jaipur Padmanabh Singh, known as Pacho. As a member of the Royal Family of Jaipur and the reigning Maharaja of Jaipur, the Maharaja’s presence on the field lends a regal touch to the proceedings. A seasoned polo player with a global reputation,

His Highness’ inclusion in the Indian Polo Team further elevates the stakes.

“This Year’s International will be an outstanding event for polo fans in the Sydney basin and is bound to generate interests from all around NSW.”

Murray said visitors are welcome at the Windsor Polo Club. “It is a beautiful place to relax, entertain, or celebrate with family and friends, whilst watching the exhilarating game of Polo unfold before you. You can either bring your own picnic and set it up under the big shady trees, or enjoy the refreshments and delicious food offered at the Clubhouse.”

Tickets to the 2024 International also include the opportunity to see both the Women’s International and Junior Finals. The women’s international match will see Australia take on arch-rivals New Zealand. The fierce rivalry between these two nations guarantees a thrilling contest as they go head-tohead for bragging rights and glory.

“To be able to host this calibre of players in this region underscores the high level of excellence of

polo in the Hawkesbury and our commitment to growing the sport in this region,” said Murray.

“Outstanding sporting events like this help build the presence and reputation of sports in our country, whilst also bringing together our community and supporting the tourism industry. We look forward to welcoming everybody to this exhilarating event.”

The Australian Men’s squad is: Blake Grimes (Ellerston Polo Club), Augustus Aguirre (Timor Polo Club), Alec White (Scone Polo Club), Lachie Gilmore (Scone Polo Club), Jack Grimes (Ellerston Polo Club), Ruki Baillieu (Eynesbury Polo Club).

The Australian Women’s team is: Chloe Allen

4 (Serpentine Polo Club, WA), Ashley Glennie

4 (Garangula Polo Club, NSW), Anna Dowling

4 (Millamolong Polo Club, NSW), Phillipa FitzHenry 5 (Downs Polo Club, QLD), ReserveShannon Booth 4 (Muddy Flatts Polo Club, NSW)

For more information or to purchase tickets go to: https://events.humanitix. com/2024polointernational

Arunga Wins Autumn Windsor Polo Tournament

BY NOEL ROWSELL

EIGHTEEN teams competed across four grades in the Autumn Windsor Polo Club tournament, played over 9th - 10th March.

The winners were: 8 Goal – Arunga

Polo Club (Chris Daily, Tom ParryOkeden, Agustin Ruiz, Bautista Panelo) def Jemalong Polo Club 8-7; 4 Goal Pool A - Jemalong Polo Club (Colt Kahlbetzer, Johnny Kahlbetzer (replaced by Ashley Glennie), Archer Buchert, Jake Daniels) def Kurri Burri

10-9; 4 Goal Pool B - Millamolong (Rowena Rainger, Charlie Boyd, George Philip, Ed Davidson) def LJ Racing & Polo 4-2; 0 Goal - Ilala Stud (George Fraser, Ray Bruce, Sam Smallman, Pete Handbury) def Grouse Polo 7-4; Subzero (played

over 2 days) – Arunga Polo Club (Greg Coops, Guthrie Williamson, Scarlett Storie, Henry Batchelor) def Killarney Orange 10-5; Champion Pony 8 Goal - Classified played and owned by Will Gilmore; Grooms Prize sponsored by LJ Racing & Polo - Friederike Ba

Action from the Men’s and Women’s International Polo matches at WPC in 2023. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Top ten placings at 2024 NSW Senior Amateur

BY NOEL ROWSELL

AFINAL round of 5-over 75 has proved costly for Jeff Gadd (Penrith GC), who finished tied for 3rd in the 2024 NSW Senior Amateur, just 2 shots off the lead.

Gadd was the early leader on Day 1, following an opening round 68, then again impressed on Day 2 with another 68 to sit just one shot off the outright lead. His final round 75 would however prove costly, with Andrew Tharle (Royal Canberra GC) and James Swanson (Shelley Beach

GC) both moving ahead of Gadd and overnight leader David Armstrong (Gold Creek GC), who also faltered in the final round, shooting a 6-over 76.

Dale Turner (Penrith GC) shot 68 on Day 3, one of the best scores of the round, to move up the leaderboard into 6th place, just 3 shots off the lead.

The tournament was held over 54 holes from Tuesday 5th – Thursday 7th March, utilising both Tamworth and Longyard golf courses.

The local players who survived the 36-hole cut finished in the following positions in the field - Jeff Gadd (Penrith GC) 211 - T3, Dale

Turner (Penrith GC) 212 - 6th, Denis Day (Penrith GC) 220 - T23, John Fearnley (Dunheved Golf Club) 224 - T38, Matthew Taylor (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 225 - T44, Stephen Hunt (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC) 227 - T51.

Louise Mullard (Wyong GC) was a runaway winner in the Ladies division, shooting a 4-under total of 212 to finish 9 shots ahead of Sue Wooster (The National GC) on 221 and Nadene Gole (Victoria GC) on 222.

Four local clubs hunting for Pennant Titles

BY NOEL ROWSELL

IT has been a successful year for local clubs in the Golf NSW Major Pennant competitions, with 4 clubs (Springwood Men, Glenmore Heritage Valley Men, Leonay Men and Stonecutters Ridge Women) all moving on to the playoffs, chasing their respective Division titles.

In Men’s Major Pennant, Division 1, Section 2, Stonecutters Ridge defeated previously unbeaten Avondale 5-2 to move up to 2nd spot on the competition ladder. Penrith also had a strong 6.5-0.5 win at home over Monash to secure 3rd spot in the Section.

Concord finished 1st in Division 1, Section 1, to move into the playoffs, with western Sydney players Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs), Ti Fox (Richmond) and Chayse Thorpe (Richmond) all members of the

Concord team.

In Division 2, Section 2, Bankstown defeated Twin Creeks 4.5-2.5, sending Twin Creeks to the Relegation playoffs. In Section 3, Dunheved 4.5-2.5 over Richmond, denying Richmond the

Section title, but Dunheved is also headed to the Relegation playoffs. Twin Creeks play Cumberland at 11:15am on Sunday at Liverpool and Dunheved play Monash at 7am on Sunday at Muirfield.

Yandamonium

Some things will never change

ONE of my favourite pastimes is gauging public opinion of topical matters and the most recent racial slur incident involving Spencer Leniu and Ezra Mam has been a real treat.

Here we have, for want of a better word, two black or dark-skinned men involved in an incident where one called the other a monkey.

The funny thing was the reaction by many who said Mam should “just ignore it” and “grow thicker skin” as well as the ancient attitude that “it’s part of the game”. There was also the line of thinking that it’s a “black on black” incident so it’s fair play. This was a view shared by many “white folks”.

However, we were more united a few years ago when the late Australian test cricketer Andrew Symonds was called the same thing by Indian villain off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. As a nation we became incontinent that this could still happen in world sport! The ingredients

were the same where we had two adult males of a darker complexion going head-to-head on the field of play and old Harbhajan over there called our Symmo a monkey.

This leads me to my second favourite pastime, which is white people seemingly dictating or deciding what black people should and shouldn’t be offended by. Any perceived or vocalised taking of offence is often met with, “come on bro, it’s just a joke” and the classic “I have black friends”. This is like saying you may only be offended if I deem it worthy. Oh yeah, and don’t get me started on the term “reverse racism”, nobody owns it!

As much as the National Rugby League tries to promote inclusion and acceptance and diversity and all the other buzz words, the fact is we are a very long way off the harmony and eradication of racism we strive for when the elite athletes are also throwing it around like a bit of harmless fun.

In Division 3, Section 2, Glenmore Heritage Valley won 4-3 over Eastlake to capture the Section title. In Section 1, Springwood fell 5-2 to Cabramatta away but still win their Section title. Glenmore and Springwood meet at 11am on Sunday at Manly, with the winner to advance to the Division Final and also win promotion in 2025.

In Division 5, Section 2, Wallacia won 4.5-2.5 over Macarthur Grange but still finished 3rd in the Section. Leonay won both the Section and automatic promotion.

Women’s Major Pennant: Division 1, Section 1: The Australian 5-0 over Stonecutters Ridge but Stonecutters still move on to the playoffs, taking on the powerful Concord, which includes western Sydney player Grace Lee (Glenmore Park).

Women’s Grade Pennant: Cromer 4.5-0.5 over Penrith. Mixed Pennant: Richmond 4-1 over Asquith, Rosnay 3.5-1.5 over Springwood.

WITH GREG YANDA

No need to panic

THERE must be a lot of footy fans with undiagnosed anxiety after the first round of the season. Panic, frustration, and disappointment swept the fanbase of the losing sides after the results and it’s not needed. One loss doesn’t mean the dream is over, six in a row might be a different story. Penrith lost to Melbourne on Friday but are ranked fourth in points conceded with four. You can make things look better with statistics, 70 per cent of people know that, Wests Tigers are unbeaten this year!!

See ya later

Action from the last round of the regular season at Dunheved. L: John Pagett (Dunheved) R: Dave Dennis (Richmond). Photos by Noel Rowsell

Jeff Gadd (Penrith GC). Photo supplied by Golf NSW.

Ezra Mam scored three tries in the 2023 NRL Grand Final.

Photo: NRL

Lillypilly has a diverse range of wines from dry to sweet, including dessert and fortified wines.

Winemaker Robert has won over 1000 awards and his passion for wine continues to enable him to capture the Riverina region’s unique climate and flavours in a bottle.

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ON THE

MARK

WITH MARK GEYER

AN NRL ROLLERCOASTER ROUND 1

WITH the opening round of this season’s NRL seemingly taking a lifetime to play given the Vegas extravaganza, lets look over the fortnight that was.

Manly 36 v Souths 24.

The opening game of the season didn’t disappoint with a whopping 70 points being scored. For the Sea Eagles Tommy Turbo, Luke Brooks, and Daley Cherry-Evans all starred, with their forwards laying an amazing platform. For the Rabbits, Latrell was strong in the first half as was Cam Murray who led from the front as captain. But with no Jack Wighton (still suspended from last year) and no Campbell Graham (pec injury) their outside backs lacked pizzaz. Unfortunately a rotator cuff injury could see Origin forward Jai Arrow out for the season! Manly looked great while Souths did in patches.

Roosters 20 v Broncos 10.

The other game that was played in Las Vegas obviously has had a thunderous postscript, which i’ll stay away from. On the field the return to Origin form from James Tedesco was a highlight. Joey Manu, Victor Radley and Lindsay Collins all starred for the Roosters, whilst the Broncos looked unlike their invigorating usual selves.

I think the loss of Flegler, Farnworth and Capewell is going to hurt them more than they first thought. Whilst they still have a team that will press for top 4 honours their round 1 counterparts look like they’re in for a MASSIVE season.

Knights 12 v Raiders 28.

The first ‘ambush’ of round 1. The Raiders came out of the blocks to hush the near capacity home team’s crowd. They were led once again by

Joe Tapine and Hudson Young, whilst guided beautifully around the field by Jamal Fogarty’s astute kicking game. The Knights were cumbersome and never looked like they were in the hunt. A bit of a worry for coach Adam O’Brien. What is also a worry is the Knights halves and hooker rotation. With Brailey out injured, Crossland started at number 9 with Cogger in the 14, with Gamble and Hastings 6 and 7 respectively. At one stage the 4 of them were on the field at the same time creating headaches and confusion for Newcastle’s floundering attack. But this game was all about Canberra who showed on their day they can beat anyone anywhere!

Warriors 12 v Sharks 16.

Another upset and another reason I only tipped two out of eight this round!

Up 12-0 you got the feeling it was the Warriors by how many! But the Sharks never gave up, in fact I think it’s just about their best win under coach Craig Fitzgibbon. Travelling across the ditch to snatch 2 points is worth 4 given the circumstances and the team they faced. Great win Sharkies but nothing to worry about as yet for Andrew Websters Warriors.

In a game that was all about defence, the Storm, lead by new skipper Harry Grant, defended their try line like their lives depended on it. The Panthers recent travel requirements, the World Club challenge and then on a plane to Melbourne would definitely have been a hinderance but it would not have been an excuse for Ivan Cleary. The Panthers had their chances but the Storm’s tireless defence was commendable. The Panthers now have the luxury of two home games to at least get a chance to sleep in their own beds when they take on Parra this Friday, then the Broncos the following Thursday night.

Parramatta 26 v Bulldogs 8.

A lot has been written post this game about the Bulldogs and how this and that should change but not much has been written about how well the Eels exploded out of the gate! They were on point from the get-go. Their big men in Paulo and CampbellGillard laying an enormous platform for the like of Bryce Cartwright and Clint Gutherson to do their stuff. Sure the Bulldogs are a work in progress and they’ll take time to click given

the radical transformation they’ve undertaken as a club but the Eels were rampant in front of a sold out Comm Bank Stadium. Friday night’s contest against the Panthers should be EPIC!

Titans 4 v Dragons 28.

Probably the biggest WTF game of round 1. A lot was expected from the Titans this season under new coach Des Hasler, conversely the opposite was expected from their opponents last Saturday the Dragons. The takeaways from this match were that Shane Flanagan is a real good coach who i think most have forgotten won a competition with the sharks back in 2016 against Melbourne. On the flip side only on first impressions the Titans could be in for a long year.

Dolphins 18 v Cowboys 43

The Dolphins were dealt a cruel blow by having Tom Gilbert rubbed out of another season due this time to an ACL tear. Last year it was his shoulder in the opening origin game. And with that you get the feeling the Dolphins chances of making the 8 this season also evaporated. Gilbert is the heartbeat of an ageing Dolphins pack and they needed him to go anywhere near a top 8 spot this season. The ‘hot and cold’ Cowboys were sizzling last Sunday reminding us all just how good they are on their day. Jeremiah Nanai, Zac Laybutt, Val Holmes and Reece Robson all starred for Toddy Pattens men and proved, even after one game, that they have the artillery to compete with everyone.

See you at the game this Friday.

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Melbourne 8 v Penrith 0.