Nepeannews 17122015 by Nepean News

FREE Thursday, 17 December 2015

ISSUE 165

WISHING ALL OUR READERS A HAPPY AND SAFE NEW YEAR! NEXT EDITION: JANUARY 7, 2016

Merry CHRISTMAS May all ll your wishes h come true this h Christmas! h Pictured: d Anthony h Garofali f l ffrom St Marys. Photo: K.Arena Photography

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Multi-sensory rooms By Kerrie Davies

MEMBER for Londonderry Prue Car was so impressed when she visited Kurrumbee School that she immediately went to work on ensuring they get some funding to enhance their leaning environment. “One of the first schools I visited after I was elected was Kurrambee School in Werrington. In my time as a Member of Parliament so far, few things have really affected me as much as what is happening every day at this school,” Ms Car said. “It is nothing short of inspiring. “So it was a huge privilege to announce that this school will receive just over $20,000 from the Londonderry Community Building Partnership Grants to outfit three special MultiSensory rooms to provide programs for the students with special needs.” Kurrambee School caters for students with diverse special needs, ranging from severe intellectual disabilities, severe physical disabilities, high medical support needs, Autism Spectrum Disorders and Behavioural Disorders.

Prue Car MP

Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Member for Londonderry

The Multi-Sensory Rooms will develop the students’ language skills, improve hand and eye coordination, increase sensory function, help block out distractions, reduce anxiety and assist students to remain focused. “I’m so impressed with Principal Lisa Moffat and the staff at Kurrambee for the truly incredible work they do every day,” Ms Car said. The school promotes excellence in teaching and learning, a happy, safe and joyful learning environment and a recognition of student dignity and independence. Their programs are directed at maximising students’ learning for living and improving their quality of life. Kurrumbee’s philosophy is to recognise students as individuals, family members and participants in the wider community.

Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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4 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

From the Editor’s Desk 203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalst: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Tom Carey 0425 803 180 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.nepeannews.com.au

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres. Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet. Check www.nepeannews.com.au for complete list of distribution outlets

by Kerrie Davies WELL here we are at the best part of the year, where hopefully your greatest worry is whether there’s enough sticky tape left to wrap your presents and the beer in the fridge is cold enough to drink. Here’s hoping you’ve had a great year, it has certainly been a big one. After the Rudd / Gillard / Rudd shenanigans of yesteryear, who’d have thought this year we’d be at it again with Tony Abbott being ousted from the throne? But its worth noting that this time around the polls have skyrocketed for the Liberals, and some great appointments to the new cabinet have been made, most notably our local resident Senator Marise Payne becoming Australia’s first female Defence Minister. Personally I’ve had a great year, I’ve tripped overseas to Hawaii, Fiji and Bali, become a nanny again twice, started another publication in the Blacktown region and survived a year of being married to my political nemesis without us killing each other. Nepean News has also had an awesome year thanks to our dedicated team, fantastic clients and readers. Our expansion into Blacktown with our second major publication, Western News, has ensured there was definitely no rest for the wicked. We’ve covered many stories, the good, the bad and the downright ugly. I’d like to end on the good. Some local women have really kicked goals this year, including Minister Payne as mentioned above who has been not just a proactive and effective member of the Senate, but an outstanding representative for our country; and our Mayor, Karen McKeown who has done a fabulous job as the face of this city. We also have some very hard working female members of parliament in Fiona Scott, Prue Car and Tanya Davies. Watching such capable women in powerful roles it is incredulous to think that not so long ago, not only were there no representatives in government, but we weren’t even allowed to vote. But let’s not forget the men. One only has to watch Penrith MP Stuart Ayres speak to see that not only does he have a passion for Penrith flooding through his veins, but he’s been an exceptional member and Minister for our community. It is not just the politicians that have an enormous impact and I’d like to name a few blokes who have been standouts for me this year: Tony Fryer, Ted Fish, Sam Vecchio, Garry Ayres, Colin Johnson, John Taylor, Garry Fizzell and Harry Morefoot. Unfortunately we lost the latter two during the year. These guys are the most ethical, authentic and sincere gentlemen you could ever hope to meet. If there’s a definition of a true blue Aussie, these blokes are it. They all have one thing in common; they’ve all served our country during various conflicts. They also donate their time helping others, raising funds and play a vital role in educating our kids about respect and honour. I say forget the calls of sending our youth back to doing compulsory National Service, just send them to these blokes for a week or two. It has been my absolute pleasure to get to know them, they really are the salt of the earth and I salute them. Hope you have a very Merry Christmas. See you next year!

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Stuart Ayres

Member for Penrith

By Kerrie Davies

SANTA has come early for the local community with great news from the CEO of the Henry Sports Club, Sharon Tassell. After a tumultuous period of financial strain, the club has managed to turn things around and patrons will be delighted to hear that fears of the club closing down appear to have been dealt with. “It is my greatest pleasure to advise that after 18 months of being under administration; we can happily announce that we are hopeful of satisfying the requirements of the Deed of Company Arrangement by the 29th December 2015,” Sharon said. “This will mean that the club will no longer be under Administration and is returned to the control of the directors. “This is a fantastic outcome and secures the future of our home to over 4000 members and

their guests and the jobs of 25 staff. “It is with thanks to the team from RT Hospitality Solutions who took over as Administrators in February 2014, as they saw the potential in our club and allowed us to continue to trade. “This would not have happened without our most loyal members who stuck with us, and of course the great team of staff at the Henry. “We look forward to a bright and prosperous future and the continuation of supporting our local Community.” Since its inception in the late 1960’s, the club has grown but still retains its intimate atmosphere and is distinct from other registered clubs. The growth of sporting clubs has been a wonderful development, ranging from golf, soccer, rugby league, cricket, softball, darts and fishing.

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Out of the woods

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Helping our most disadvantaged children NEPEAN Evening VIEW Club is spreading the word about The Smith Family’s 2015 Christmas Appeal to help raise $3.4 million by the end of the year to support disadvantaged children with their education. VIEW stands for the Voice, Interests and Education of Women and is the only woman’s volunteer organisation focused on advocating for and supporting disadvantaged young Australians through The Smith Family. “Throughout the year Nepean Evening VIEW Club actively fundraise and volunteer in support of The Smith Family and we are urging the community to help us by getting behind charity’s Christmas Appeal,” said VIEW President Judy Ryan. “One in three children living in Australia’s most disadvantaged communities are starting school behind their peers. Without extra support, disadvantaged children will continue to struggle at school. “Funds raised from The Smith Family’s Christmas Appeal will provide 8,500 students across every state and territory with access to important out-of-school learning programs next year.” “Supporting a child’s education and learning opportunities is one of

Children cannot choose their circumstances

the greatest gifts you can give this Christmas,” added VIEW President Judy. The Smith Family runs learning support programs throughout the year and these have proven highly effective in boosting the educational outcomes of disadvantaged children. In 2014, 1,089 primary students participated in the student2student reading program, with 95 per cent of students improving their reading. Of the nearly 3,000 disadvantaged primary students who attended The Smith Family’s after school Learning Clubs for tutoring, 89 per cent of students said it helped them try harder

at school. Donations to The Smith Family’s 2015 Christmas Appeal can be made at www.thesmithfamily.com.au or phone 1800 024 069. Nepean Evening VIEW Club is currently welcoming new members and is suited to women interested in meeting regularly, establishing lasting friendships and contributing to the community. “If you are looking for an opportunity to meet new friends, have fun and learn new things while supporting disadvantaged children, then Nepean Evening VIEW in is an ideal club for you” said Judy.

FOR years, Michael’s home life meant he was frequently absent from school. His single-mother was severely sick, often spending weeks in bed. He did the cooking each day and helped look after his younger sisters. When he did go to school, he knew he was different from the other children. He couldn’t read, and was scared to put his hand up in class, for fear of being found out. It was clear that Michael needed help at home and help at school. In Australia today, 1 in 10 children live in disadvantaged homes. For these 638,000 children, life is a daily struggle. The difficulties they face at home often have a negative impact on their life at school. Like many disadvantaged children, Michael was convinced he would always be poor, always be living on welfare, and never be as capable as his classmates. Thousands of children like Michael need your help this Christmas. Without your support, many more young children like Michael will never catch up with their classmates.

New beginnings and a new ride By Garion Thain

MARTHA Siede, a local woman with cerebral palsy, finally acquired a wheelchair accessible vehicle on Monday after over fifteen months of hard work, campaigning, and help from friends. Ms Siede appeared in a previous article in August wherein Little by Little Inc. President Allen Cullen praised her individual fundraising efforts and conveyed the charity’s work in helping her find a wheelchair accessible vehicle. These efforts paid off on Monday with Mr Cullen going to Penrith Toyota to visit Sales Manager Glenn Hadley, where he finally completed the process of acquiring the gold Toyota Tarago. Little by Little Inc. and Penrith Toyota have a longstanding friendship and Mr Cullen was happy to go to them to find Ms Siede a car. “Today we had the money necessary, paid for the vehicle from our good friends at Penrith Toyota and handed over the keys to Martha and her husband Andrew,” said Mr Cullen. “Martha showed tremendous drive

7 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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Martha Siede’s fundraising efforts, with help from Little by Little Inc. and St Marys Rugby League Club culminated in the purchase of a modified Toyota Tarago on Monday. Photo: Tom Carey

and did most of the fund raising herself, Little by Little Inc. was only too happy to help her.” Attending the triumphant key handover at Penrith Toyota was Ms Siede’s husband and carer Andrew as well as Jennifer Najdek from St Marys Rugby League Club, who donated $5000 to Ms Siede earlier this year.

Mr Cullen and Mr Hadley happily watched Ms Siede’s first entrance into the Tarago shortly after. Mr Cullen said online of Ms Siede, “May your life be that much better, you deserve for all the work you did yourself.” Mr Cullen and Little by Little followed Ms Siede’s efforts for over a year. Little by Little Inc. exists largely

in service of Kurrambee School in Werrington, but the charity has branched out further into the greater Nepean community in the last five years. For more information about Little by Little Inc., they can be found on Facebook under Little by Little Inc. or at their website at http://www. littlebylittle.org.au/

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Extra rubbish? No problem!

IT is the season to be jolly and with that comes the giving of presents and the extra consumption of food and bevies. The downside of the festivity is all the extra rubbish that needs to be disposed when the parties are done and dusted. But have no fear, council is here - and they’re one step ahead of the problem! Penrith Council is providing extra bin collections this Christmas to allow households to cope with any extra waste during the festive period. Council will provide two weeks of extra collections from 25 December to 7 January 2016 when residents can place all bins kerbside for weekly collection. Bin collections go ahead even if the collection day falls on a public holiday. To ensure the collection of your bins please leave all of them at the kerbside the night before your normal collection day and leave them there until they are emptied.

Penrith City Park proposal PENRITH’S City Park, an urban oasis possibly surrounded by compact housing and specialist retail opportunities, is a step closer after Council endorsed a planning proposal this week. The vision, which was supported by our community during the Penrith Progression process, is to create a City heart with links from the park and development through to High Street. Mayor Karen McKeown said creating this vision would revitalise City Centre shops and encourage the redevelopment of many High Street arcades into Penrith’s ‘laneways’, reminiscent of Melbourne. “A City Park has been considered an important component in the transformation of the Penrith City Centre since 2006,” Cr McKeown said. “In February it was identified in the Penrith Progression A Plan for Action, together with the Living Well Precinct, as a main priority for Council. When realised, the City Park will represent a significant infrastructure investment by Council for the benefit of the Penrith community.” The planning proposal seeks to rezone part of the block bound by Station, Henry and Woodriff Streets and the Allen Place carpark to B4 Mixed Use. Cr McKeown said this was in order to provide the greatest amount of flexibility in pursuing land uses that create amenity and vibrancy. Council is looking for partners to grow the local economy, attract investment and create jobs - as well as cater for the parking needs of our growing Regional City.

Prue Car MP

“

Member for Londonderry

A very Merry Christmas to you and your family. All the best for 2016 and enjoy the holiday season! Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

“

“I must stress that there will be no net loss of car parks in the City Centre in the future,” she said. “Parking is an important facility in our City, but there is real scope here to provide better parking as well as other services, enabling a vibrant City Centre to cater for a growing population.” Council is currently inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development of two City Centre sites at Reserve Street and Union Road. A third EOI will be sought in early 2016 for the delivery of the City Park and an adjoining mixed-use development. “The City Park will serve as a cool refuge in hot summers and provides a vibrant drawcard for community and cultural events,” Cr McKeown. As well as creating a city heart and laneway culture, the vision for the City Centre includes: • Building a bustling City Centre that’s a pleasure to walk and get around • Making inner City living a reality and business in the City Centre easy • Connecting our river to the City Centre • Creating a vibrant colourful outdoor life • Adopting fresh ideas, projects and partnership, helping us grow and prosper and • Delivering jobs for the future. A Gateway Determination to start the Local Environmental Plan amendment process will now be sought. Public authorities and the community will be consulted, as part of this process.

Help tackle domestic and family violence By Kerrie Davies

THE cases of domestic violence in this country, especially over the last couple of years have been nothing short of horrific. There’s Allison Baden-Clay, whose husband was convicted of murdering her after her body was discovered on a creek bed under a bridge 11 days after she was reported missing. Earlier this month Gerard Baden-Clay won an appeal against his murder conviction and the Court of Appeal substituted the charge for manslaughter. And who could forget the sickening tragedy of Luke Batty - killed by his owner father at a sporting ground in broad daylight in the most brutal way imaginable? While most of us could imagine his mother, Rosie Batty, spending the rest of her days in a state of shellshocked horror, her strength has been incredible and she has emerged as one of the strongest advocates for domestic violence awareness in the country. Unfortunately there are many, many more terrible tales and there’s a lot of work to be done in tackling the domestic violence issue.

Michelle Ellery, CEO of local charity Queen of Hearts Foundation with Rosie Batty

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith is calling on the Penrith community to help shape domestic and family violence (DFV) reform in NSW to better target perpetrators and improve support for victims. Mr Ayres said the NSW Government is developing a DFV Blueprint to

Tanya Davies MP Member for Mulgoa Phone 02 9833 2913 Email mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au

At this special time of remembering the birth of Jesus, may His message bring you and your family hope and joy at Christmas and into the New Year

enhance our response to DFV and public feedback is vital to how we respond. “DFV services play a critical role in helping keep our most vulnerable families safe. We know that having the right support in place is vital when victims make the move to escape violence so it’s important that we get it right,” Mr Ayres said. “This eight week public consultation period invites feedback from anyone who would like to contribute to this important conversation, including members of the public and anyone who may have accessed or provided domestic and family violence-related services.” “By participating in this public

consultation you will help us gain a better understanding of what works in the current service system, what doesn’t work and where there are any gaps.” The NSW Government has achieved significant DFV reforms this year including allowing video evidence in courts; updating the mandatory NSW 7-10 PDHPE syllabus to explicitly include domestic violence; expanding Safer Pathway to a further four sites; funding community based Men’s Behaviour Change Programs and introducing plain English ADVOs. These reforms are further supported by a $60 million package announced in October that targets perpetrators and supports people who experience DFV. “A comprehensive toolkit to help guide group discussions and submissions is available on the Have Your Say website,” Stuart Ayres said. The consultation is now open and closes 5pm Friday 5 February 2016. To join the conversation and to download the community workshop toolkit visit http://www.haveyoursay. nsw.gov.au and choose community services

Wishing the Penrith community a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High St, Penrith

9 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Imagine this!

Stafanie Taylor-Made for Penrith SYDNEY Thunderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international signing, Stafanie Taylor, was a surprise inclusion for Penrithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first grade team, inspiring them to an upset eight wicket over high-flying Bankstown in the latest round of Sydney Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grade Cricketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s T20 competition. Going into the clash at Howell Oval, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lady Catsâ&#x20AC;? as they are often referred to, hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t won a game since Round Two. But the inclusion of the West Indian star along with the return of fellow Thunder team mates, Mikalya Hinkley and Naomi Stalenberg (per photo) enabled Penrith to get a much-needed win. For Taylor, it represented an opportunity to re-acquaint herself with the wicket where just a week earlier, she blasted the Sixers out of the ground with a match-winning 59 not out from just 38 balls. But while the West Indian (12*) wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t required to do much with the bat this time round, Taylor was yet again impressive with the ball, taking an economical 1/11 from four overs. Nonetheless, given the Thunder have a long break before their next game against the Brisbane Heat, Taylor was grateful to get some match practice in. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a good feeling getting out there on the field,â&#x20AC;? Taylor said.

TOP points for imagination go to the aptly named ImagineNations Church this Christmas for their incredible Lights Experience. Be sure not to miss the amazing lights with a special Aussie themed display and a great night for the whole family! This is a free event, with food available for purchase. Proceeds will go to local charity WestCare. There is a large Aussie-themed Christmas lights display to walk through at your own pace any time between 8:30pm and 11:30pm. You can stay as long or short as you like. The Christmas Lights Experience is on this weekend: Friday, Saturday and Sunday Night (18-20 December). ImagineNations Church is a vibrant, growing Christian church located on Simeon Road Orchard Hills. For more information call 4736 3000.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a long break from the WBBL for us and it was actually good to just go out there with a bunch of girls who were young and determined, really love the game and played their hearts out. I liked their spirit.â&#x20AC;? Taylor was particularly impressed with the performances of her Thunder team-mates, Hinkley and Stalenberg. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She (Hinkley) did a fairly good job out there today,â&#x20AC;? Taylor explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naomi batted really well today. She got her innings going and played some impressive shots which was good to see.â&#x20AC;? Stafanie, often referred to as the female equivalent of fellow Jamaican, Chris Gayleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has settled into Sydney a little over a week after arriving but

admits her diet needs to improve. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been good except for the food,â&#x20AC;? Taylor said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still trying to get the food right.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The girls are lovely and making me feel welcome which is good.â&#x20AC;? Taylor is excited that the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of Big Bash League finally gives womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cricket the exposure it deserves. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what we want, we want the game to expand and with this type of competition we hope that there will be more WBBLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to come too,â&#x20AC;? Taylor exclaimed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope that good performances will see more people come out to watch and we promise that is going to happen.â&#x20AC;?

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POLICE FILES

Message from St Marys Police Please think about how you will be celebrating Christmas with family and friends. You don’t need police to attend an address of a loved one and inform them you will not be home for Christmas. Think how you would cope if Police Officers delivered this message to you at this time of the year. Don’t speed, don’t drink and drive, and if fatigued have a break. Drowsiness will kill you just as quickly.

Four on drug supply charge Police are investigating the supply of drugs within the Penrith area have charged four men with a range of offences. Officers from Penrith Local Area Command formed Strike Force Bouy in June this year. As a result of inquiries undertaken by detectives from Strike Force Bouy, last week, police executed two search warrants in Torton Place, Penrith and arrested four men. A 51-year-old man was charged with 14 offences relating to ongoing drug supply, possession of child abuse material, firearm offences, traffic offences, and dealing with proceeds of crime. Three men were charged in relation to alleged ongoing drug supply offences; with a 58-year-old

man charged with 11 counts, a 38-year-old man charged with two counts, and a 30-year-old man facing four counts, as well as dealing with proceeds of crime. All men were refused bail to appear before Penrith Local Court.

Penrith: tool theft warning Are your tools safe? A Tradie’s best asset. A lot of tool theft is opportunistic. A would be thief looking for an unlocked ute door or open toolbox. Don’t give someone the opportunity to take your assets. Have you locked the Truck? - Only ducking into the hardware for a second could cost you more than a bag of cement if you don’t lock your ute, van or truck first. Keep your vehicle and tool boxes locked even if leaving for a few minutes or if your on a job and you leave your vehicle in a driveway or on the street while you go into do the job. LOCK IT UP! Lock the Box! - Toolboxes look attractive so ensuring they are secure is a must. Check padlocks and locks regularly to check they are in working order. Replace any damage or worn out locks with good quality locks and chains etc. If you can’t keep your tools safe at night then taking them inside your home could be the next safest option. LOCK IT UP! Engrave your Tool! - Having your tools engraved with your Drivers Licence Number or other special mark could assist Police in identifying your property if they end up in the pawn shops. It will make them harder to sell and easier to identify. A tradie’s tools are important so make the effort to keep them safe!

11 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Secret debate

He Says................................... WHAT is it with Christmas that most of us feel compelled to return to English traditions of a hot lunch of ham, turkey, roast vegetables and anything else we can possibly heat up in the kitchen? Now I like the idea of the family get together over a meal, sitting around a table and talking about the memories of years past, what the future may bring and just shooting the breeze about life and family. Lord knows we don’t do it nearly as often as we should, but why is it essential that in Australia, in one of the hottest months of the year, we associate that with killing ourselves over a hot stove in the kitchen? If we lived in the northern hemisphere where it is cold and snowing, I can understand that tradition. There is nothing better than a hot meal to overcome those winter chills but at Christmas in Oz there is no snow and winter chills. How much better is it to hoe into

WIN!

some fresh cold ham and salads with an assortment of cold prawns and seafood? How much better to not be slaving in a 120 degree kitchen cooking an abundance of food to feed the family when you could be out in the open enjoying the Aussie summer. Not to mention the abundance of washing up that goes with cleaning up after the feast. It does not take away from the family gathering and the catch up with the uncles, aunties and cousins but it does make infinitely more sense. How about we give the cook a break and let her or him enjoy the day without the need to sweat out 10 kilos whilst the rest of us enjoy a refreshing beer or wine in a climate we should be embracing. A Merry Aussie Christmas to all.

WHAT’S THE BEST AUSSIE TUCKER ON CHRISTMAS DAY? .............................She Says

CALL me a traditionalist or whatever tag that fits, but I look forward to the yummy baked potatoes and gravy covered meats and chicken, the ham with cranberry sauce and the piping hot Christmas pudding covered with custard and cream. Sure it takes a lot of effort but it also brings back memories from a childhood long gone where Mum prepared all this food to rekindle that family feast get-together that is etched in the memory. It may not make a lot of sense but it helps to bring back the thoughts of days long past. I remember what used to be the good old Sunday baked dinner with the family around the table, Dad telling the kids not to speak with their mouth full whilst Mum played peacekeeper. Where after eating we could all talk about the week we had and what was coming up. Those days for most of us are

Who do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to win a table for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant including dinner and show.

long gone, in fact if we did it now everyone would be texting on their mobile phones or scoffing the food down so they could get away and do whatever seemed more important than spending time with the family. So forgive the traditionalist in me, but for one day of the year I want those old days back and if slaving for awhile in a hot kitchen is the way to get it, then turn on the oven and stove and let’s get cracking. Modern life has changed so much, time has become the overriding desire for everything and conversation has suffered as a result, so let me take this day to bring back so much that we have lost in the fast-paced days of busy lives. Save the prawns and oysters for Boxing Day when we can really relax. A very Merry traditional Christmas to all.

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Project: whisper – call out AN opportunity for young LGBTQI people to help create a new piece of theatre. Deadline: 6 January The team at The Joan is looking for people between the ages of 16 – 25 that identify as LGBTQI to take part in the development and presentation of Project: Whisper, a new creative initiative by The Q. Lead by theatre maker Felicity Nicol, the project involves workshops and rehearsals to be held over January and February 2016 with a performance at The Joan in early March, as part of our own Mini Gras Festival. Think theatre, think media, think tumblr meets memoir. You have permission to get excited. Project: Whisper is not about coming out, it’s about welcoming in. Working in collaboration with Young LGBTQI people from across Greater Western Sydney and in partnership with Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, the project explores identity and belonging, interrogating the question: what are we meant to be, other than who we are? There are many ‘hidden’ young LGBTQI people in Western Sydney. Most are afraid to come out as they think they are alone, are vulnerable

Hawkesbury Councillor and Nepean News columnist Michael Creed and partner James Whelan

and fear becoming targets of stigma and discrimination. Many are unable to talk about who they are, are frightened of being thrown out of their homes and being cut off from their families and friends. They are, more often than not, isolated. Project: Whisper is a microphone for those who haven’t spoken up before; a place for stories previously

untold; a space for you to be you. Get involved in Project: Whisper by expressing your interest online at The Joan’s website: http://thejoan.com. au/whats-on/project-whisper. The deadline for expressions of interest is 6 January and the project begins on 28 January 2016. This project is supported by Clubs NSW and ACON.

Team members needed

THOUGH New Years Eve is fun for many, sadly for many dogs it is their last night on this earth. While humans revel at loud parties and watch fireworks, many dogs panic, run scared, are hit by cars or are never found. Thanks to the many good people who help the facebook-based group Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals, those numbers are being reduced, but the more volunteers they have helping on NYE, the more dog’s lives will be saved. They will need help with the following, in shifts: 1. Transporters 2. Safe homes for the night (Nepean Vet will fill up very quick and be unable to take them in) 3. Help co-ordinating finders with transport and homes. 4. Scanners 5. Admin help. Please help them if you can. Head to Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals on facebook - it will save lives!

13 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

localnews local

Council Column By Kerrie Davies

Lemmy’s leaving Paul Lemm, Development and Environmental Health Manager last week announced his resignation from Penrith City Council after a career in public planning that has spanned almost 30 years. Mayor McKeown dedicated her Mayoral minute to Paul’s valuable input to the Penrith community through his role. “During Paul’s tenure at Penrith, the City has experienced significant growth and development activity,” Cr McKeown said. “Paul has been at the forefront of this growth ensuring that good development has occurred, shaping the City in line with the Council’s policies and vision. Paul has been a reformer of the DA service ensuring that our customers achieve the best possible service. “Under Paul’s leadership, our development customers are constantly engaged in a dialogue and partnership with our planning staff to ensure a culture of continuous improvement is achieved. Also approval statistics are continually amongst the best in the region for which Council can be proud. “Paul is well known in the industry as a person who breaks through on complex applications and is focused on good outcomes. He is well respected by the development sector for this. He has worked hard to develop a similar culture within his team. He is both an excellent mentor and nurturer of planning talent. “Paul is, in his field irreplaceable and we will miss him, but we wish him well with his new business.” The Councillors all joined in with good words to say about Paul, including Cr Hitchen who said he’d been extremely helpful and didn’t speak in a language that makes your eyes glaze over, and Cr Thain, who said Paul had left behind a real legacy and that there were now big shoes to fill. Councillor Marcus Cornish spoke of Paul attending his factory prior to being elected as a councillor. “He was very courteous and always very helpful. This is a great loss to council,” he said. Councillor Jim Aitken added that he knew of no developer that had ever criticised Paul’s work. “He is very trustworthy and Penrith is a poorer place without him,” he said.

Big ballet bonanza Cr Bernard Bratusa had requested a report which was presented to council this week on Council partnering with the Australian Ballet to deliver a free community event in Penrith in November 2016. The annual free community outdoor performance, “Under the Stars”, has become a much anticipated highlight of The Australian Ballet’s calendar. The event enables young and old to experience a unique performance, the event appeals to both seasoned ballet fans and newto-ballet audiences. The event has been previously held in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra. “This is a great opportunity, and given that the event has always been in a capital city, it will be great exposure for Penrith,” Cr Bratusa said.

Volunteer’s vehicles vandalised Councillor Tricia Hitchen called for an urgent report to see if there is anything Council could do to help Londonderry Rural Fire Service. “They’ve been having major problems with their vehicles being broken into. I realise it is essentially a state issue but it would be good to see if we can do something to help, especially coming into the high season for bushfires,” Cr Hitchen said.

15 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

localnews local

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18 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Our pets need blood too!

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at WellPet Vets phone 1300 WELLPET

Senior Veterinarian and CEO WellPets Vets Mountains, Nepean and St Clair

JUST like with humans, our pets will sometimes require a blood transfusion. There are many reasons why a pet would need a blood transfusion these include, but are not limited to: • Anaemia (low red cell count); • Low blood protein levels; • And low platelet numbers. Common causes for these problems are: • Organ failure of the kidney or liver; • Sudden blood loss from trauma or a bleeding tumour. This may occur inside a body cavity, and therefore be hard to identify; • The toxic effect of some poisons and illnesses; • Blood clotting defects; • Autoimmune diseases. Transfusions can be given in a number of forms. These include as fresh whole blood, or stored blood that has been refrigerated for up to 4 weeks. We can also give components of blood, for example plasma (proteins including clotting factors). Each of these will have a different purpose. The most common blood transfusion performed is a fresh whole blood sample. WellPet Vets is equipped to perform many types of transfusions. In some instances, it is necessary

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to obtain information relating to a pet’s blood type, which allows us to match the types so that we lower the risk of complication. Both the donor and the recipient must be blood typed. Blood types are antigen markers on the surface of the red blood cells. To type your pet, a specific blood test is performed to indicate which blood type they have. Cats are more likely to have severe reactions to transfusions that have not been typed. Dogs are less likely to have a reaction if given their first transfusion, however subsequent transfusions without typing will often result in complications. Transfusions are administered intravenously with a special filter. Blood transfusion is done slowly at first so we can observe your pet for any adverse reaction. The speed of the transfusion may then be increased so that it can be completed over

approximately four hours. Regular blood tests are performed before during and after the transfusion to monitor the success of the transfusion. At WellPet Vets our blood donors are often volunteered. Our staff pets, just like nurse Allison’s cat Alvin pictured here, will be admitted into hospital, given sedation and have a measured amount of blood taken for the transfusion. Unlike when humans donate, we do not provide a milkshake afterwards. Instead we replace the collected blood with intravenous crystalloid fluids to ensure the donor maintains their blood pressure and recovers promptly. We have a blood donation on call list for pets that can donate for us. If you would like to volunteer your pet to be on a donor list, please contact us and we will arrange for your pet to see the vet to discuss the process with you.

RECRUITMENT REVIEW

with Linda Kemp

Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

How to prepare and conduct an interview BY this stage you’ve written an awesome job description, advertised the role, shortlisted the candidates that look most suitable… now it’s time to prepare for the interview. Even the most successful business managers and owners are not necessarily experts when it comes to interviewing…so what can you do to increase the chances of a good outcome from the interviews? It’s important to prepare in advance, these are a few tips that can make all the difference. • Take some time to read through the job description and employee specification and make any adjustments that you feel necessary • Create an ‘interview questionnaire’ with the name, time and date at top and columns for questions, ratings, your comments. Have a copy attached to each resume so you can make notes as you go. Questions can include general aspects i.e. ‘why did you apply for this role?’ and specifics of the job description/skills required, e.g. if it includes handling customer complaints ‘tell me about a time when you have had to handle a serious complaint, how did you handle it?’ Try to have 8 -10 questions including ‘What would make you the best candidate for this role?’ or similar • Ensure that you have a balance of questions to understand how the candidate would handle different aspects of the role • No matter how much experience the interviewee has, they will probably be nervous,

take that into account • Ensure you don’t keep the candidate waiting, you have made a specific time for the interview, they may have a limited parking time or have taken time off work for the interview, be mindful of that • Greet the candidate, introduce yourself and any members of the interview panel and give a brief introduction about the company and the role • Discuss their background, going through their resume clarifying points re. previous roles, (make notes on the resume so to remember the answers later when recapping) • Explain that you’ve a number of areas that you’d like to cover and go through the interview questionnaire • Be objective, ask each question clearly and ensure that you give the candidates time to answer • Ask if they have any questions and where possible answer those questions thoroughly • Clarify their availability and salary expectations, thank them for their time, and let them know that you will be making a decision by xxx date/time • It’s a common mistake to assume that all of the candidates will want the role…they may not • Review your notes and make your selection based on all the information including notes, references and skills testing (if you are finding it difficult to choose, consider holding second interviews with the candidates you have selected). Good Luck!!

Complete Recruitment Solu ons is diﬀerent from most specialist recruitment consultancies…… you’ll see why from the moment you apply to us. For both temporary and permanent roles, we source the most suitably skilled and experienced candidates for our clients’ needs. Our guarantee to our clients means that all candidates are required to complete our screening process. This includes thorough reference checking, skills assessments and in depth interviewing. Here is a small selec on of the roles that we are currently recrui ng:

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CNC SETTER/OPERATOR $60K $70K WETHERILL PARK Permanent full me role – Se ng and Opera ng CNC Lathes. Must have Mazak se ng and opera ng exp (no programming req). FITTER/WELDER $32 $35P/HR SMITHFIELD Temp to perm role – MIG weld aluminium, mild steel and stainless – Fi ng and Fabrica ng work – Manufacturing petroleum/LPG tankers. CONSTRUCTION MANAGER $120K + CAR + MOBILE Permanent role – Current builders licence – New home building industry – Computer literate – Must understand council and RFS issues in Penrith/Blue Mountains area. PRODUCTION TEAM LEADER $65K $70K MID BLUE MOUNTAINS Permanent role – Excellent leadership & problem solving – LEAN Exp – Customer service driven.

INDUSTRIAL FORKLIFT DRIVER $26/HR + SUPER + OT EASTERN CREEK Temp to perm role – Working in the steel industry – loading and unloading b doubles, semis, ﬂatbeds – dog and chain exp. Must have Exp loading trucks with long lengths of steel/ mber or similar (varied lengths). PLASTERERS & CARPENTERS WESTERN SYDNEY BASED COMPANY COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL ONGOING WORK Projects based throughout Sydney Metro & CBD areas. FORKLIFT DRIVERS WESTERN SYDNEY Experienced, reliable, & eﬃcient forkli drivers and storepersons needed. MR, HR & HC DRIVERS Permanent roles available. Must have truck and dog experience and a good driving record. Plenty of over me available.

PERMANENT ROLES PURCHASING/WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS ST MARY’S LOCATION, PERMANENT ROLE $45K + SUPER + BONUSES This varied role is split between warehouse opera ons and purchasing/supplier management. LF forkli cket required as well as car licence and experience in both warehousing and purchasing. MAINTENANCE FITTER Windsor loca on – rota ng shi s - $70K + Super + Shi allowances Support produc on in this maintenance focussed role, unique product, excellent team. Lots of local casual ‘on call’ work for reliable industrial workers with own transport and references

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Continuation of the

‘Park View’ Hotel - 1937

HE Penrith Police Court in February 1937 Martin of the Park View donated two guineas for second charged Patrick Dowd who pleaded guilty to a prize. The race was later taken from the Western Highway charge of maliciously damaging three plate glass by the police who said the disruption would be too much windows and one mirror - the total value of £12 and the for the traffic and was run along Bringelly Road to the property of Charles Nelson Whiteman licensee of Park Highway (3½ miles). The race was won by Norman Shaw View. Constable Sindell said that Patrick was under the who was a NSW Rugby League sprint champion. Second influence of liquor and it appeared that he had gone to was Roylston and Arnold was third. In August 1938 an the hotel to get a drink but was refused and he broke application from Tooth & Co to the Penrith Licensing the windows and mirror. It was found that Patrick was Court was for substantial alterations to the hotel. The on relief work and a single man at the age of 62 years firm’s architect stated that the alterations would take four and living in a tent. He was fined £2 and required to months to complete and the estimated cost was £1,175. pay £12 compensation. Charles only had a short stay The order required that the work be completed within six at the Park View because towards the end of 1937 he months. By December the hotel was advertising for a went on holiday and transferred the licence to Vincent Housemaid to live in and assist the bar and giving award Henry Martin of Penrith. The Buffalo Lodge No. 227 wages. In the Nepean Times in February 1939 there is at St Marys was founded by Vincent and a Mr Wardrop a lengthy write-up regarding Vincent and the Park View of Blacktown in February 1938. In November, 1939 when two men – Walter Tyler and Eric Hildebrand who the license of the “Iron Duke Hotel” at Alexandria had been drinking at the hotel. pleaded “not guilty” at Elaine Forde with her Uncle was transferred to Charles Whiteman. Charles was Penrith Police Court for stealing a bottle of Jamaica rum, Norman Shaw at “Little Manly”, living with his wife at 84a Weston Street at Harris Park two parking lights and one lifting jack valued at £2 and Nepean River (circa 1940’s) when he died in hospital in April 1953. He was the a hat and all the property of Vincent. These items were Vice-President of the Parramatta Agricultural Society and also of Lodge hidden in a sidecar owned by one of the men who lived at the No 4 pipeline Parramatta, St John UGL of NSW. He was cremated at Rookwood. Also camp at Warragamba. They were both convicted and each sentenced to in the Penrith Police Court in November 1937, David Centennial Ireland one month’s imprisonment which was to be suspended on them entering was fined 10/- and court costs of 8/- for being unlawfully on the premises into a £20 each fine and good behaviour for the next twelve months and of the Park View at 10.40 a.m. on Saturday the 23rd October, the day of also each to pay 15/- for the witness’s expenses. Also in February Vincent the Federal election. This next article from the Nepean Times in May was assaulted by a St Marys’ storekeeper by the name of Harold Joseph. 1938 will have you shaking your heads – either in awe or laughter! Titled Apparently there was ongoing bad blood between these two men and “Road Billiards” it goes on to say that interest was stimulated in the St Harold struck Vincent in the face knocking out a front tooth and cutting Marys to Penrith billiards road race promoted by the Aroney Bros of High Vincent’s lip. Harold pleaded guilty and was made to pay a fine totalling St Penrith. The intending competitors had been having some “try-outs” £10.7.0 that included court costs, professional costs and compensation. By some of which were staged especially for Sydney press photographers and the end of 1939 Vincent was assistant Manager at the “Nepean Hotel” at for movie operators Fox Movietone who were in the district and filmed Emu Plains and lived in the hotel with his wife, occupying bedroom No. 3 the race and a practice race at Quarry Hill. It was quite evident that the on the first floor and in September 1943 Vincent was applying for a permit playing of a billiard ball along the road for five miles was not going to be for the sale, disposal or supply of liquor for consumption along with bona as easy as “shelling peas”. There would be numerous ‘’hazards” however, fide meals between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on the premises of the there would be much fun for onlookers who are sure to be numerous - The “Golden Fleece Hotel” in Scone which was granted. In May 1940 the Conditions: - (1) the competitor must propel the ball with a cue as in a licensee of the Park View was Sidney Thomas Shankland who employed billiard shot. (2) The competitor must follow the ball on foot the whole a special porter at the hotel who, if satisfied, would let in a known visitor. distance to the finishing post. (3) Either butt or tip of cue may be used. (4) A Penrith Court Case regarding just this arrangement was played out in The competitor may pick up the ball when off the road but must replace May regarding a taxi driver named Herbert Woodhead also known by the it on the earthen portion of the road (if there is any) and not on asphalt name of “Rose” who had come to visit the hotel in March and signed the or concrete. (5) The competitor may move the ball when ‘’stymied” by visitor’s book as “R. Rose, Bondi Road, Bondi” although he resided at any obstruction to allow a clear hit. (6) The competitor may use hands or Rooty Hill. Because the porter knew him he was let in even though it was feet to prevent the ball rolling back downhill. (7) The competitor must not 10.30 pm and after the 6 o’clock cut off. He pleaded guilty to a charge of guide the ball with cue, hands or feet when it is rolling on downhill. (8) being found on the licensed premises of the Park View in prohibited hours The competitor must not purposely obstruct other competitors during the but the case was dismissed under Section 556 (A) of the Crimes Act. race. The starting point was the Park View and the finishing point was the Source: Trove, NSW State Archives and the Nepean Times Aroney Bros refreshment rooms in High Street, Penrith. The race started Lyn Forde – Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society at 2.30 p.m. and the competitors were: - C. Hewitt, F. Ralston, D. Hackett, Inc. To be continued... N. Shaw, L. Smith, and F. Hudson. The St. Marys’ competitor L. Smith I would like to express our members thanks to all those who have visited however was a doubtful starter owing to a strain that was due to a difficult our facebook page and have supported our Society over the last (and past) masse shot. In the event of his withdrawal, J. Arnold of St Marys was to years and we would like to wish you and yours a very happy Christmas take his place. – Prizes were from the Aroney Bros who had donated £10 and a safe 2016. We will be closed until February 2016 (pending the for the race, £9 of which was the first prize and £1 third prize. Vincent completion of our renovations at the Chambers.)

21 Nepean NepeanNews News1719December February 2015 Issue 165 143

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23 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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properties on the market. But selling in a period of high demand, contrasted by low supply means you are one of the few properties still for sale. And in turn, you can then work hard on standing out from the competition, rather than getting swept away in the flood as we move through 2016. If you’re determined to sell, put your thoughts into action and enter the market. Remember that getting the best out of a sale is down to you, not what will or will not happen to property prices further down the line. Might as well start the year with a bang. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, see you next year.

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

THE SMART LINE with Steve Roddick

4 golden rules for first home buyers AS someone who has been trudging the rental treadmill for a while, or maybe has never quite found the right home at the right time, getting your foot in the door of the property market can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. But before you make that almighty jump, what should every first time buyer know? By keeping these four golden rules on hand, you’ll be well on your way to a happy, fulfilling life in your first home. 1. Don’t get sucked in It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the headlines – house prices are rising here, unit values are plummeting there. But in reality, pinpointing a boom suburb – or a flop – takes a bit more work. Leaf through house price data from the past few years to check for trends. It might be that an area has just come out the other side of a dip and is poised for a comeback, making it a good time to strike. On the other hand, the boom might be on the way out. 2. Start saving early It’s no secret that buying your first home takes a bit of saving slog, but this doesn’t need to come at the

expense of all the things you love doing. Once you’ve got your heart set on your first home, it’s best to start that savings expedition early. Getting into the groove can take a while, but a cut back or three over the long term could make all the difference for securing your first home loan! 3. Use your head Let’s be honest: It’s hard to take all the emotion out of purchasing your first property! If you’ve been working hard to get the funds together, finding a beautiful house can lead you to make a rash decision – one that could cost you financially further down the line. To avoid landing in hot water, weigh up all the costs and commitments that you’ll need to take on if you do make the purchase, including stamp duty and home loan repayments. Talk to as many people as you can. 4. Get Independent Advice Often our family and friends mean well but the old adage is often true, and I suggest before you take advice from anyone you should always “check the fruit on their tree”, think about it, how can anyone who has

not owned a business or investment property give you sound advice on either? If you have family members that have been down this road take advantage of their wisdom and advice by all means, but do your research, after all it is your purchase. You need to make clear and sound decisions with all the facts, and a mortgage broker, accountant, and financial planner is a good place to start. Merry Xmas and stay safe over the holiday period.

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sport

Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

GOLDEN POINTS WITH STEW MOSES

Segeyaro & Matagi Play Their Part in the Community The NRL announced that James Segeyaro and Suaia Matagi are Penrith’s representatives as NRL State of Mind ambassadors for 2016, joining ten incumbent ambassadors. The program is designed to encourage players, clubs and communities to speak up and seek help if they are experiencing any form of difficulty or difference in their mood. To learn more about the program and if you or anyone you know would like support, visit www. nrlstateofmind.com.au. The NRL’s announcement comes on top of Segeyaro’s recent work with with Loqules and charity group Livin to give nine severely disadvantaged boys and girls a Christmas present they will never forget. Segeyaro gave the select group a tour of Pepper Stadium, put them through a training session, played a game of touch footy, spoke about his struggles growing up and spread his personal story of following his dreams to play rugby league in the NRL. Trent Merrin, Sione Katoa, Te Maire Martin, Zach Dockar-Clay and Sam Clune also assisted in giving the group a day to remember.

Ex-Panthers Set to Move On as the Centre MerryGo-Round Continues With several clubs headed by Brisbane Broncos and South Sydney as reported last week still interested in signing ex-Panther James Roberts, it could come at a cost for another ex-Panther. Should South Sydney recruit the player they themselves sacked in 2012, they will need to release at least another player on top of the recently departed Chris McQueen (Titans) and Dylan Walker. One such player being touted to move on is Tim Grant. Despite having three years to run on his contract, the ex-Panther is reportedly being shopped around with suggestions that Wests Tigers or Canberra are possible suitors for his services. One player who won’t be moved on from Souths however is 2017 Penrith signing, Chris Grevsmuhl. This comes on top of recent news that another exPanther, Luke Lewis is being shopped around by the Sharks despite being contracted for another season.

Taking a Year’s Break from the Game? Another centre is set to sign elsewhere in 2016 but not as one would have expected. Port Macquarie News reported last week that

@THERIFFMARN

(World All Stars) who will both been selected on the bench for their respective All Star teams, for the February 13 clash at Suncorp Stadium.

Segeyaro gives these children a day they’ll never forget. Photo: Jeff Lambert (Penrith Panthers).

former Panther, Jamal Idris could make a shock return to rugby league with the Port Macquarie Sharks in Group 3 in 2016, in what would no doubt be a coup for bush footy. Idris, 25, quit the Panthers last month, citing personal reasons that included a need to take time out for a year, but that looks short-lived should he play with the Port Macquarie Sharks.

No No No to Tigers Halves Pairing! Last Sunday, the Sunday Telegraph reported Penrith are interested in signing Tigers halves pairing, Mitchell Moses and James Brooks. But Panthers Executive General Manager, Phil Gould AM was quick to refute those claims on social media and with good reason too given the number of options at their disposal. Te Maire Martin, who left the Tigers because of the Brooks / Moses halves pairing to sign a three year deal with Penrith, can particularly breathe a sigh of relief.

Will the Sharks Hook a Panther? One off-contract 2016 Panther certain to attract the Sharks’ attention for 2017 is hooker James Segeyaro. Given Cronulla’s need to eventually replace veteran hooker Michael Ennis, plus his close ties with ex-Panther, Wade Graham, Penrith could well have a battle on their hands to retain Segeyaro’s services beyond 2016, despite Phil Gould stating on social media he isn’t concerned by the speculation.

Peachey, Merrin Named in Indigenous / World All Stars Squad Penrith will be represented by Tyrone Peachey (Indigenous All Stars) and star signing, Trent Merrin

A Shock Five-Eighth Contender? While on Peachey, it’s believed new Panthers coach, Anthony Griffin is toying with the idea of playing the Indigenous All-Star at five-eighth in 2016 despite the utility player himself having a preference of playing in the back-row. With Peachey having played there before, the idea isn’t as silly as it sounds given that incumbent halves, Jamie Soward and Peter Wallace are yet to be confirmed as the first-choice halves pairing for 2016. The arrival of Trent Merrin and Suaia Matagi also means there are plenty of players vying for spots in both the front and back-row and Peachey showed in 2015 that he is more than just a bench utility.

Setback for a Young Panther Penrith’s Stanton Albert is set to be out of action for at least the next six months after Phil Gould confirmed on social media the PNG international will need to undergo further knee surgery on a troublesome ACL injury.

Christchurch Deal Too Good To Resist Plenty of Panther fans have be-moaned the deal to take a Panthers home game to Christchurch for the next two years, with an option for a further two years. Given that the deal is worth in excess of $300,000 a year, the reality is that until fans vote with bums on seats instead of their remotes, these decisions that are clearly in the best commercial interests of a club that continues to struggle to significantly grow home attendances, will continue.

Panthers Set to Play Pre-Season Game in PNG Expect confirmation shortly that Penrith will be playing a trial in Port Moresby on the weekend of the Auckland Nines against a PNG side to be named. The club will send a pro-dominately NSW Cup squad to play in Port Moresby. This is the Last Golden Points Column for 2015. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it as much as I’ve enjoyed putting it together. Everyone, have a safe and merry Christmas and I look forward to seeing you at a game in 2016!

BEHIND THE STUMPS Sydney Thunder Wrap Up Big Bash League Preparations at Howell Oval

WITH STEW MOSES @THERIFFMARN

Ladder: Round Seven

A near-full strength Sydney Thunder squad, On averages, Penrith’s standings are as completed preparations for Thursday night’s follows: Big Bash season opener at Spotless Stadium 1sts: 7th; 2nds: 1st; 3rds: 20th; 4ths: versus cross-town rivals, the Sydney Sixers, 10th; 5ths: 12th; Poidevin-Gray: 5th; Club with an intra-club T20 trial at Howell Oval, Championship: 6th last Saturday afternoon at Howell Oval. The Thunder squad (minus Usman Khawaja and Andre Russell) were split into two sides Women’s Wrap captained by Mike Hussey and Aiden Blizzard. Penrith’s first grade side has pulled off a After Hussey won the toss and elected to stunning eight wicket win over previously bat, opener Shane Watson starred, scoring 61 Sydney Thunder’s Shane Watson had everyone ducking for cover at Howell Oval. undefeated T20 team Bankstown at Howell runs from just 32 balls with three fours and six Oval last Sunday. Photo: Courtesy of Penrith City Council sixes, including three in one over off Jacques The win represents Penrith’s first since The win lifts the Black Cats into equal fourth Round Two and came at a good time given the welcome Kallis (0/23 from 2 overs), who was still clearly feeling the effects of jet-lag, having only arrived in Sydney days position on 24 competition points and now face Sydney return of NSW Breakers star, Naomi Stalenberg T20 Champions, Randwick-Petersham (also on 24 alongside with Thunder WBBL team mate, Mikayla earlier. Mike Hussey also looked in good touch (unbeaten 47 competition points) in this Saturday’s one day clash at Hinkley. from 60 balls) as his team posted 6/173 from their 20 Howell Oval, that will see the winner secure a top six But the big inclusion was that of Thunder team mate spot heading into the Christmas break. overs. and West Indian star, Stafanie Taylor. Spinner Chris Green (2/24 from 4 overs) and Taylor again proved economical with the ball Gurinder Sandhu (2/28 from 4 overs) were the pick of taking 1/11 off her 4 overs while Hinkley took 3/22 the bowlers. Poidevin-Gray Round Four: Crushing Loss for as Bankstown were restricted to 6/125 before Naomi In reply, Blizzard’s team fell short, finishing with Black Cats Stalenberg’s first appearance at the crease for Penrith 7/152 from their 20 overs. The Black Cats’ unbeaten run in their Poidevin-Gray this season, resulted in an unbeaten 50 for the NSW Kallis was dismissed early by Thunder recruit, Clint campaign, came to an abrupt end losing by nine wickets Breakers player as Penrith cruised to victory. McKay for 9 and opted not to bat again. to Manly at Manly Oval. Earlier, second grade’s resurgence in the T20 came to Aiden Blizzard, who was also dismissed in the same Penrith were dealt a blow with regular captain an end, losing to Bankstown by ten wickets in a bizarre over by McKay, returned to score an unbeaten 45 while Cameron Weir ruled out, still feeling the effects of game where just one wicket was taken for the match. Ben Rohrer showed glimpses of what he can do, scoring heat exhaustion suffered during the recent Under 19’s First Grade: 34 and 13 in his two stints at the crease. championships in Adelaide. Round 11: Bankstown 6/125 (M Hinkley 3/22, S Clint McKay (3/24 from 4 overs) and Andrew Stand-in skipper, Jake Wholohan’s decision to bat Taylor 1/11, N Stalenberg 1/25) def by. Penrith 2/127 McDonald (1/10 from two overs) were economical first seemed vindicated with the Black Cats 1/59 but (N Stalenberg 50*, S Arnold 45, S Taylor 12*) while Shane Watson (1/29 from 4 overs) bowled his first Ryan Hackney’s dismissal triggered a middle-order Second Grade: spell since retiring from test cricket. collapse that saw key batsmen, Jonathan Sammut and Round 11: Penrith 1/77 (E Breaden 25*, M Bennett Jake Wholohan both out without scoring before Penrith 24*) def by. Bankstown 0/78 were dismissed for 170. Round Seven: Another Big Run Chase? No Kaine Balgowan took an early wicket before Manly cruised to victory in just 36 overs. Problems for the Black Cats Repping the Black Cats The loss sees the Black Cats drop back to fifth and Day Two saw Penrith overcome a sluggish start Penrith’s Jake Wholohan playing a pivotal role, to chase down their third 300+ target of the season, will need to win both remaining games against Gordon taking 4/12 as NSW Metro accounted for ACT / NSW scoring 6/322 to defeat Gordon at Chatswood Oval by (home) and Eastern Suburbs (away) to secure their spot Country by nine wickets last Thursday in the final of the in the finals. six wickets. Under 19’s championship in Adelaide. Jonathan Sammut starred with the bat, scoring an Wholohan, who enjoyed limited opportunities in the unbeaten 106 off just 94 balls that included 15 fours and tournament, got his chance to shine on the biggest stage two sixes. Lower Grades Wrap: Round Seven and disappoint with his four wickets enabling NSW Sammut was ably supported by Matthew Hopkins Outright wins for seconds and fourths but losses in Metro to chase down ACT / NSW Country’s 160, losing (59) and Tim Cummins (40) before an unbeaten 94 run thirds and fifths. just the one wicket in the process. partnership for the seventh wicket with skipper Matthew 2nds: Gordon 89 (M McNamara 3/26, J Lee 2/12, K Halse (40) allowed the Black Cats to chase down the Neiss 2/24, T Finemore 2/27) and 104 (M McNamara total in just 82.5 overs. four wickets, J Lee and T Finemore two each) def by Next Up Gordon, resuming on 8/308 were quickly dismissed Penrith 8/163 (dec) (J Newton 37, M Newton 37) and Round Eight (one-day): Saturday 19/12 v Randwickby 320, with Ryan Smith taking both wickets to finish 2/31 Petersham (1st / 3rd / 5th – home) with 3/81, well supported by Chris Withers (4/92) and 3rds: Penrith 129 (L O’Hare 35) def by Gordon Poidevin-Gray Round Five: Sunday 20/12 v Gordon Michael Collins (2/46). 7/157 (R Lotiker 3/43, D Sparkes 2/23) (Howell Oval) Penrith staggered into lunch at 3/62 but Sammut’s 4ths: Gordon 109 and 206 def by Penrith 4/117 (dec) (Womens) Round Twelve: Sunday 20/12 v Sydney maiden first grade century saw the Black Cats secure and 4/200 (both teams away – T20) their first win since Round Four. 5ths: Gordon 9/218 (dec) and 5/89 def Penrith 118 #LoveTheCats

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27 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Cricket: Are the Sydney By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

THE Sydney Thunder, having completed their pre-season preparations last Saturday at Howell Oval in front of over 700 fans, are quietly confident about what this year’s team can achieve. But despite being excited by the prospect of having the club’s strongest roster to date, both skipper Mike Hussey and coach Paddy Upton refuse to buy into the pre-season hype that the team will finally make the finals at their fifth attempt. “Our expectations are high inside, we do believe we’ve got a good squad and we’ve been able to build that over a few years,” Hussey said. “But I don’t like to put a roof on how high we can go.” “Let’s just play as well as we can, execute as well as we can and let’s see where that takes us.” Hussey’s sentiments were echoed by Upton, who stated that while the fans can’t expect a finals spot this season, they can look forward to seeing a competitive team each game. “It would be an uneducated

Shane Watson in action with the ball.

comment from me to make as a coach to say one can expect a finals spot because it’s not our right, every other team wants it,” Upton said. “(But) there will be really competitive play, exciting neversay-die cricket and regardless of the result we’ll play entertaining cricket to entertain the fans and (that is what) they can expect every game.” “If we get everything in place which we will, if we get into a final there will be absolutely no surprises for me and hopefully the fans, they’ll be thinking “well I think they deserve to be there”. Upton also refuted suggestions that the Thunder’s were mentally not ready to play finals in previous

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Jacques Kallis – King of the Kids.

Coach, Paddy Upton is quietly confident

seasons, stating that there were other factors at play. “I don’t want to look for excuses at all but last season we were badly hit by injuries and when you have a decent squad and you get hit by injuries, it’s really difficult,” the coach explained. “I think this year we’ve got an even better squad.” “We’ve got more depth so any injuries that we do have which happens in a game it won’t be as telling on us.” “(Apart from) Hussey, Watson, Kallis, who have been there (before), you’ve got really mentally strong players, even among the youngsters, such as your Chris Green’s and Gurinder Sandhu’s, so I think we’ve

got the mental resolve, the depth and the strength to be able to go all the way.” Given the strength of the squad heading into season five, Upton admitted it is a nice change to have a selection headache going into game one. “It’s a wonderful headache to have,” Upton said. “There’s a lot of discussion about who the final eleven will be.” “You look our batters, we have a really strong top five-six” “We’ve got Kallis, Watson, Andre Russell, who are not only our top six batsmen but also all top level bowlers which gives us room to be able to play around with that eleventh spot

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Thunder finally finals bound? Mike Hussey was in fine touch last Saturday. Photos Courtesy of Penrith City Council

whether we play another seamer or a spinner.” “As a coach I couldn’t ask for more.” Hussey was pleased with the facilities on offer in Penrith for their final hit-out, which allowed some of his key players to fine tune their game. “The facilities here (at Penrith) are excellent which has enabled us to have a great hit out today which just what we needed to start off our campaign,” Hussey said. “Shane Watson (61 off 32 balls) looked in really good touch (and there were) some nice first time hit outs for Fawad Ahmed and Clint McKay (given its) their first time at the club.”

“I think (it was important that) everyone contributed at some point during the game.” While for Upton, the trial at Penrith represented an opportunity to bring the club to its fans. “This is the community that we represent so of course we’ve got to come out here and see the kind of following and the kind of enthusiasm there is for the Thunder here,” Upton said. “So many people in the crowd are wearing green which is fantastic.” Off the field, Sydney Thunder General Manager, Nick Cummins is excited by what has been achieved by the club but says it time

those efforts were replicated on it. “We’ve just about doubled our membership sales from last year (3,000) and we are capping there this year,” Cummins explained. “From a sponsorship perspective we’re now in the top four teams in total sponsorship dollars.” “Spotless Stadium has been a really positive move for us so our hospitality sales, corporate boxes and ticket sales have been really good as well.” “All the things I think Sydney Thunder should have achieved in BBL 1 are starting to come together now, which is why we’re hoping the performance on-field will complete the picture.” “We’ve got a team that can win it

SYDNEY THUNDER SCHEDULE #BBL05 2015-16 THURSDAY 17 DEC 2015 7.40PM VS Sydney Sixers Spotless Stadium, Sydney SUNDAY 20 DEC 2015 7.25PM VS Melbourne Stars MCG, Melbourne MONDAY 28 DEC 2015 7.10PM VS Adelaide Strikers Spotless Stadium, Sydney FRIDAY 01 JAN 2016 7.10PM VS Hobart Hurricanes Blundstone Arena, Hobart SUNDAY 03 JAN 2016 6.10PM VS Brisbane Heat Gabba, Brisbane THURSDAY 07 JAN 2016 7.40PM VS Perth Scorchers Spotless Stadium, Sydney MONDAY 11 JAN 2016 7.40PM VS Melbourne Renegades Spotless Stadium, Sydney SATURDAY 16 JAN 2016 6.10PM VS Sydney Sixers SCG, Sydney

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so we’ve got to make sure they play to their potential.” With the Thunder expected to be full strength (except Khawaja) for this Thursday night expected sell-out at Spotless Stadium, Hussey says that the Thunder women’s win over the Sixers hopefully will give his side the confidence to overcome their hoodoo of having not defeated the Sixers in the previous four seasons. “Hopefully it’s a good omen for us but they’re a tough team,” the skipper explained. “They’ve been a really good team for a long time.” “There is always a lot of pressure in any Big Bash game but the stakes are raised a little bit in the Derby but we’re looking forward to it.”

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29 Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

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Nepean News 17 December 2015 Issue 165

Panthers’ star signing settles in KEY signing, Trent Merrin, freely admits he is still coming to terms with swapping the beach life of the Illawarra for the heat of Penrith, as he prepares himself to be ready for Penrith’s round one clash with the Canberra Raiders. While Merrin still regularly commutes back to the Illawarra, he has found a place to live in Penrith which is fortunate given he says this year’s gruelling pre-season has been one of the toughest experienced to date. “I’m still trying to adapt.” Merrin admits. “It’s been one of the toughest preseasons I’ve been a part of especially as the weather comes into effect.” “When you’re running those kilometres out on the field, it’s definitely harder to get the breath back.” “Anthony Griffin has been relentless on the training paddock so it’s been very tough this pre-season.” “But in saying that it will all be beneficial down the track when we start playing so every negative has a positive.” Such is the toughness of pre-season training so far, it has prevented him from really exploring the sights of his new surrounds. “I’ve just been ripping in at training and going home to sleep and then doing it all again.” “I think that’s all I can do in preseason, I get too tired to get out amongst it.” But having familiar team mates has made the transition to the Panthers easier for Merrin. “Apart from Jamie (Soward), I spent a bit of time with Jeremy Latimore when he was at the Dragons as well,” Merrin said. “I (also) got the privilege to play with Chicko (James Segeyaro) and Reagan Campbell-Gillard in the Prime Ministers’ team (in Papua New Guinea) before the season finished.” “Everyone else has been welcoming, like I’ve been here for a while so the adjustment has been pretty swift.”

Penrith’s star recruit Trent Merrin, modelling the 2016 Alternate Jersey at the recent Members Brunch Photo: Jeff Lambert (Penrith Panthers)

Merrin’s decision to move to Penrith was in part inspired by recently sacked coach, Ivan Cleary but says Gould’s decision to change coaches in October, hasn’t impacted on what he wants to achieve in 2016, which includes getting the Panthers, preliminary finalists in 2014 before injuries derailed the club’s 2015 campaign, back to where they need to be.

“I had my own personal ambitions and goals before any coach was on the radar but there was a few things that I liked about Ivan and there’s a lot of things that I like about Anthony,” Merrin said. “It’s all about doing the right thing by my body and getting myself ready for the season,” the ex-Dragon said. “You want to be better than the year

before, especially coming into a new club.” “They (Penrith) had a great year two years ago and that’s where (the club) should be at.” Those goals also includes Merrin taking on a leadership role at the club. “If I can teach a few players the way I play the game or how I prepare than that’s a bonus at the end of the day,” Merrin said. “I’ll be definitely doing the best I can to take on that leadership role.” The former Dragon is also excited that the interchange rules will suit his game and hopes it leads to more game time in 2016. “At the end of the day it’s the coach’s call how long he wants the players to stay out on the field for but I’ll be pushing hard to give above and beyond what’s required,”Merrin stated. “That’s why you put the hard work in now is to be able to withstand it out on the field.” The 2016 draw has Merrin coming up against his former club at the ground he once called home; Win Stadium but the former Dragon hasn’t thought much about the clash, preferring to focus on the work ahead. “It’s too early to be thinking about the season at the moment,” says Trent. “I think I’ve just got to put the hard work in now and then once you start the trials you can start getting a feel about who we’re coming up against.” “When we come up against them then I’ll start to prepare.” There’s been a lighter side as well as Merrin settles in at the club, with the new Panther quickly discovering who the team’s jokers and pests are. “You can’t go past Matty Moylan he’s always giggling and stitching players up,” Merrin revealed. “He always tying their shoe laces the wrong way and hiding things so he’s definitely a pest.” “You’ve also got the “Fantastic Four” as they like to call themselves - Peachey, Cartwright, Yowie (Yeo) and Campbell-Gillard.” “They think they’re something special,” Merrin jokes.

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UNWANTED SEA-EAGLE LANDS AT PENRITH By Stewart Moses

@TheRiffMarn

Unit 2/70 Mulgoa Road PENRITH

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PENRITH has confirmed the signing of Kiwi international, Peta Hiku to a three-year deal reported to be worth $1.2 million, staving off interest from St George-Illawarra and Parramatta in the process. Whilst Hiku can play fullback, wing (where he has played the majority of his 61 NRL game career to date) and even five-eighth as illustrated on the Kiwi’s recent UK tour, it’s very likely the former Sea-Eagle has been signed as a direct replacement for recently departed centre, Jamal Idris, despite having played just 12 NRL games to date in the position. Hiku adds much needed potency to a Panther backline that is set to feature Moylan, Mansour, Whare and Watene-Zelezniak in 2016, having already scored 28 tries since debuting for Manly in 2013, a fact not loss on Panthers Executive General Manger

Rugby League Phil Gould AM. “The fact that Peta, at a young age, has forced his way into that tremendous Manly backline and has performed so well on the international stage for the Kiwis is indicative of his tremendous ability,” Gould said. “At 23 years of age he obviously has the best of his career in front of him and we are excited he is going to be a Panther for the next three years.” “He will perfectly complement the emerging young players we have here at Panthers.” The signing does raise some questions surrounding the futures of emerging talents, the Jennings brothers, Robert and George (both off –contract at the end of 2016) and Waqa Blake, who all had a taste of first grade in 2015. Their futures also in part may depend on whether the decision is made to shift Moylan into the halves which will allow either Hiku or Watene-Zelezniak to move to fullback, opening up a spot in the outside backs in the process.

Once an Eagle now a Panther, new signing Peta Hiku. Photo: Jeff Lambert (Penrith Panthers).

But should new coach Anthony Griffin prefer Hiku at fullback under such a scenario, it could also raise questions over Watene-Zelezniak’s future at Penrith despite being contracted until 2017, given his preference is to play fullback as well. The signing completes Penrith’s 2016 roster, with attention now focused on which players will be retained for 2017 and beyond, with Penrith’s Phil Gould already confirming on social media that talks have commenced to re-sign Josh Mansour.