Nepean News 17 December 2020

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ISSUE 293

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Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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Why aren’t all injured persons taken to Nepean Hospital?

By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

hen there is a local accident, the injured are often taken to Westmead Hospital, even if it happened right near Nepean.

Careflight and other emergency services will attend an accident scene and quite often the patients are then transported from the Penrith area to Westmead.

Readers are often asking, “why not Nepean?” and the answer is because Nepean Hospital is not a trauma hospital. When the victims are assessed at the scene, the call is often made that they would be better treated at Westmead, which is a trauma hospital.

Local MPs Stuart Ayres and Tanya Davies are inviting community members to participate in the planning and design of Stage 2 of the $1 billion Nepean Hospital Redevelopment, which includes a transformation of hospital and community-based health services.

So, if you want Nepean Hospital to be considered as a trauma facility, now is the time to speak up.

“The Hospital is one of region’s

most important community assets.

It’s important that the community has their say in shaping the future of the Hospital,” Mr Ayres said.

“Consultation is open to the entire community.

“Stage 1 consultation has helped shape the development of that building and I expect the same would happen for stage 2.

“The redevelopment presents a logical time to evaluate the provision of trauma services at Nepean. This should be patient-focused with the ultimate outcome meaning patients get the right care in the right facility,” Mr Ayres explained.

The “register your interest” campaign will run for two months before feedback sessions start in February 2021.

Stuart Ayres said Community input into the design of the Nepean Redevelopment will ensure the new facilities are patient-centred, welcoming and suit the unique needs of people in this area.

“Construction for Stage 2 is being fully integrated with the Stage 1 tower and is due to commence in 2022 when construction on Stage 1 is complete in late 2021.”

Tanya Davies said stage 2 community participation follows

on from the successful community feedback roadshow for Stage 1, which captured more than 1,200 comments from people in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

“When complete, the Nepean Redevelopment Stage 1 and 2 will future-proof world-class health care in the region for decades to come.”

Stage 1 construction, which is well underway, includes a new 14-storey hospital tower featuring a new Emergency Department, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, operating theatres, birthing services and more than 200 inpatient beds.

In addition to the new tower, the following works have also been completed at Nepean Hospital as part of Stage 1: o A new multi-storey car park with rooftop helipad (opened July 2019). o Expansion of services at Nepean Cancer Care Centre (opened August 2019). o New childcare centre on campus (opened in June 2020) For more information or to have your say, visit http://www. nepeanredevelopment.health.nsw.gov. au/opportunities/have-your-say-forstage-2

New construction and freight jobs in the heart of Western Sydney Significant investment and job generator during COVID economic recovery

U

p to 80,000 truck trips will be taken off Sydney’s congested motorways each year, while 230 jobs will be created in Western Sydney, as part of a combined investment value of up to $100 million to shift freight off the city’s road network and onto rail.

NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney and Member for Penrith the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP was the guest of honour at a sod turning ceremony to mark the milestone of major construction of a new freight hub in the heart of Western Sydney.

The new freight hub will allow shipping containers to be hauled by freight trains from Port Botany to St Marys rather than transported by thousands of truck trips on busy Sydney motorways.

Pacific National’s CEO Dean Dalla Valle said St Marys Freight Hub will shift up to 301,000 shipping containers onto rail each year, removing up to 80,000 truck trips off Sydney’s congested motorways annually, helping to improve road safety and the daily commute of thousands of motorists.

“By shifting more freight onto rail between Port Botany and Western Sydney, the number of truck trips

on the congested M4 and M5 motorways will be reduced by 8.7 million kilometres each year – that’s equivalent to 23 (one-way) truck trips to the moon,” he said.

Mr Dalla Valle said St Marys Freight Hub will allow more people to live and work locally, rather than commuting around 130 kilometres each day between Western Sydney and Port Botany.

“With Western Sydney’s population forecast to grow by another 1.7 million people by 2036, freight will be in high demand as will the need for new skilled employment in the region,” he said.

Mr Dalla Valle said the project will also play an important role in helping to boost the NSW economy as it recovers from the deep shocks of the coronavirus crisis.

“With the COVID-19 global

pandemic creating the most testing employment conditions since the Great Depression, the St Marys Freight Hub will create 60 construction jobs during the peak construction phase and 175 skilled jobs once fully up and running,” he said.

Pacific National has partnered with port logistics operator ACFS who will manage and operate the St Marys Freight Hub and deliver shipping containers the ‘last mile’ by truck to retail and wholesale customers at surrounding warehouses and distribution centres in Western Sydney.

ACFS Port Logistics Managing Director and CEO Arthur Tzaneros said St Marys Freight Hub was ideally located to process large volumes of containerised freight, with many of Australia’s major retailers and wholesalers operating national

warehousing and distribution centres within 15 kilometres of the new intermodal facility.

“Imported shipping containers will be hauled from Port Botany to St Marys Freight Hub by train and transported to nearby warehouses and distribution centres by truck.

“There are enormous opportunities to unlock the full potential of the Hub with future development of the site to enable unpacking of containers onsite, storage of goods, and then rapid distribution for B2B and e-Commerce. The opportunities are unparalleled in Western Sydney,” he said.

Mr Tzaneros said St Marys Freight Hub will be a game changer for commercial and industrial areas and facilities in Western Sydney where many large-scale customer warehouses and distribution centres are located.

“The strategically located 43-hectare hub – initially 10-hectares in size – will increase reliability and cost efficiency of freight movements for ACFS customers. It is located outside of Sydney’s road toll zone and will help ensure freight deliveries are not delayed in traffic congestion on the city’s motorways,” he said.

Mr Tzaneros said contents of shipping containers include everything from fresh, refrigerated and tinned food, groceries, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, building products, and household items like whitegoods, electronics and furniture.

local news

enrith National Servicemen’s Association Publicity Officer Maureen Gildart reports the 323 Squadron City of Blue Mountains Air Force Cadets held their end of year parade and awards presentation on Saturday 12th December at Glenbrook RAAF Base.

The Air Force Cadets program is in its 79th year of operation and will celebrate its 80th year in 2021.

For some of the Cadets, this was to be their last parade, whilst for other newer members this was their first major parade.

Nicholas Miller, Maureen Gildart, Fynn Carstens. Photo supplied.

Following a relaxation of Dux for 2020 was A/C Sgt Kate Roberts, who is Covid restrictions, the Cadets also the Parade Warrant Officer. have worked hard to re-group and prepare for both The Officer Commanding is Michael Boss, this parade and a return to regular parades in 2021. who has 12 years experience with the cadets and The City of Penrith National Servicemen’s was appointed after dedicated Executive Officer Association Inc. provided 2 of the awards for and Squadron Leader Dean Hawthorn passed encouragement, which were presented by Maureen away. to leading cadets Nicholas Miller and Fynn While this year has been difficult with Covid-19 Carstens. and the size of the cadet unit is down, this group of Nicholas is 15 years of age and is a second year Cadets have managed to overcome these difficulties cadet, who said Air Force Cadets is good and plans to achieve their goals and conduct training. on continuing as he enjoys it. He was also was “The Penrith National Servicemen’s Association awarded the Hawthorn Family Shield. is proud to support 323 Squadron Cadets and will At 14 years of age, Fynn is a first-year Cadet, continue in 2021,” said Maureen. who said he plans on going as far as he can within “I was also proud to receive an invitation to the Air Force Cadets and absolutely enjoys being a attend their final parade, for the second year.” member.

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 David Burnet 0412 448 883 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

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Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

s I sit down to write my last editor’s column for 2020, I feel so overwhelmingly lucky and grateful.

Fun and happiness has been pretty much restored as we head into the festive break.

Most restrictions have been lifted, people are interacting with friends and family again and the padlocks have been taken off the borders.

It is amazing how exciting optimism feels when you’ve come out of an experience that makes you appreciate all that you had.

I feel incredibly grateful that as a country, we have been hit with many challenges this year but we’ve managed to get to Christmas in better shape than anticipated.

We’ve had exceptionally good leadership and we’ve all done our bit.

Locally, we’ve achieved amazing things during unprecedented conditions.

We’ve stuck together and supported each other and it has faired us well.

On behalf of everyone at Nepean News I’d like to say a massive THANK YOU to all our local advertisers, contributors, elected representatives and readers for sticking with us.

Your support has ensured that we’ve been able to bring you the news and that we continue to be. We are enormously grateful.

Merry Christmas to each and every one of you.

May 2021 be everything that 2020 was not!

Happy days x

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith City Council is providing additional waste services including extra bin collections, two recycling dropoff weeks and a Christmas tree recycling day this Christmas and New Year to assist households with any extra waste they may have from the festive period.

Council will provide two weeks of extra bin collections from Friday 25 December 2020 to Thursday 7 January 2021, including public holidays, where residents can place all three bins at the kerbside for collection each week the night before their normal collection day.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM congratulated Penrith residents for never missing a chance to be champions with waste by correctly sorting. She stated that Council encourages the community to continue to responsibly dispose of the inevitable excess waste that will come with residents choosing to stay closer to home this holiday season.

“We are providing two weeks of additional collections, similar to services provided in past years, to cater for the increase in household waste and recycling around the Christmas and New Year holiday period,” Cr McKeown said.

“To make sure all the bins are emptied, the truck drivers are starting early and working late into

the evening, so please leave your bins out at the kerbside the night before your normal collection day and leave them out until they are emptied.” The recycling drop-off days are for residents to properly dispose of household recyclables at their convenience. The dropoff days will be available at Jamison Park from 3pm until 6pm every weekday from Monday 21 December 2020 through to Thursday 31 December 2020, excluding public holidays.

Council will be accepting all normal household recyclables that would go into the yellow-lidded bin, including glass bottles and jars, milk and juice cartons, paper and cardboard, plastic bottles and containers, and steel and aluminium cans.

Non-recyclable items such as polystyrene will not be accepted, however this can be dropped off at Penrith’s Community Recycling Centre. For more information, visit penrith.city/CRC The special Christmas tree drop-off on Saturday 9 January 2021 will be at Jamison Park from 10am until 2pm where real trees will be collected and mulched. Artificial trees will not be accepted on the day.

As part of the drop-off events COVID-19 safe plan, residents are requested to pack their drop-off items in the boot of their car and remain in their vehicles while staff unpack the boot to ensure a safe distance is maintained at all times.

For more information see page 12.

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Additional bin collections Creative Designs

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Wendy Gordon

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith congratulated Wendy Gordon of Cranebrook and Margaret Onus of Jamisontown whose stories are included in this year’s edition of Seniors’ Stories Volume 6.

“With only 100 contributors chosen from across the state for inclusion in the book it’s wonderful to see that two local authors are included.”

“I encourage everyone in Penrith to download a copy of the book. It’s a great read showcasing some examples of literary talent and creativity,” Stuart Ayres said.

“Seniors in our community have had so many amazing experiences and it is fantastic we are able to hear from them through the Seniors’ Stories book.”

An initiative of the NSW Seniors Card, members were invited to contribute short-stories to the book that were influenced by the theme of ‘Resilience’.

Seniors’ Stories Volume 6 is available to download now at: https://www.seniorscard.nsw.gov. au/news-activities/seniors-stories

Margaret Onus

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Local seniors share their stories

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Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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local news

Outdoor adventures for St Nicholas of Myra students

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined St Nicholas of Myra Primary School Principal, Anita Knezevic and school captains to announce that they have secured a grant of $80,000 to upgrade their playground.

Stuart Ayres said the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program is about delivering grassroots funding to enhance local facilities and provide positive outcomes.

“The new adventure playground at St Nicholas of Myra will encourage outdoor fun and recreation with a new safe, level playing surface with shade covering.”

“This new playground will ensure

students can enjoy outdoor play and fun activities for years to come,” said Stuart Ayres.

Ms Knezevic said we are very grateful in receiving this grant from Stuart Ayres towards the reimagining of our playground. Covid has taught us the importance of being active outside with family and friends. Without the addition of these funds, we would not be able to enhance our student’s wellbeing and laughter!

Applications for the 2021 Program are due to open in early 2021. For more information about the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, please visit www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

Motorcyclist lucky to avoid serious injury A 30-year-old man was lucky to avoid critical injuries in a multivehicle accident on the Great Western Highway earlier this week.

His motorcycle was struck by a vehicle from behind, causing him to go through the rear windscreen of the car in front. The man sustained injuries to his leg.

CareFlight’s Rapid Response Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance at 1:35pm on Monday and landed within a six-minute flight close to the scene of the

incident (near Eastern Creek) where NSW Ambulance paramedics were providing initial treatment.

CareFlight’s specialist doctor and NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic assisted in the man’s extrication and performed a clinical assessment on him, including an ultrasound to assess his injuries.

The man was taken by road with NSW Ambulance under ongoing observation from CareFlight’s clinical team to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition.

Photo: Careflight

Xcite for NeuroMoves Penrith S tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined George Paneras and Alex Batho of NeuroMoves/Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA), Penrith to announce a grant of $39,358 through the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Program.

SCIA will use this funding to purchase specialised equipment (Xcite) for SCIA’s community exercise service. Xcite is vital for the treatment of individuals with neurological conditions.

Xcite uses electrical pulses to promote muscle movement patters and helps strengthen weak muscles in people with paralysis.

SCIA’s NeuroMoves has been operating in the Penrith LGA since 2010 and currently assists 75 clients.

“Spinal cord injuries change life instantly and the social, emotional and financial impact on people with this type of injury can be devastating to them and their families,” said Stuart Ayres.

“Having access to this Xcite equipment will benefit at least 30 existing clients in Penrith plus other prospective clients,” said Stuart Ayres.

In 2019, the NSW announced a $15 million boost in research support for spinal cord injury. Spinal cord injuries impact more than 400 people in NSW each year with car accidents the leading cause followed by falls, colliding with a person or object, water related activities and other sporting injuries.

Council holds silence to acknowledge child’s tragic death At Penrith Council’s meeting this week there was an observance of a minute’s silence for the passing of the local little girl, Lucinda King, who lost her life last week after being hit by a truck in Cambridge Gardens.

“It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the tragic incident that occurred last Monday afternoon

at Cambridge Gardens involving a Council vehicle,” Mayor Karen McKeown said.

“We were all deeply saddened and shocked by the news that a child had lost her life and understand that this incident will have far-reaching impacts on her family, our community and our staff for years to come.

“My thoughts, along with those of my Councillor colleagues, the Leadership team and staff at Council, are with the family and friends of the victim, Council staff, and first responders to the scene.

“We stand in solidarity with our community in their grief and despair.”

“May Lucinda rest in peace.”

local news

11 Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

50 Years and Running

By Noel Rowsell

W

John in his Legend shirt and his shirt from the first City2Surf in 1971

hen it comes to running the annual City2Surf Fun Run, John Willcocks has proved to be unstoppable, although Covid-19 did put a huge dent in every runner’s plans in 2020.

Originally scheduled for the 9th August, the race was initially postponed indefinitely and when Covid restrictions showed some signs of easing, was rescheduled for the weekend of the 16th18th October, to be run at a venue/ destination of the runner’s choice but strictly forbidden on the traditional Sydney to Bondi course.

John chose the Bridge to Bridge route in Penrith for his 14km race (a 6.4km loop twice, then an additional 1.2km to complete 14kms) and an interactive App allowed him and all other runners on that weekend to monitor where they would normally be placed on the traditional course at any given time on their run.

Son Mark accompanied John on the run (John’s 50th and Mark’s 32nd race), whilst other runners in Penrith were also doing a similar course, in both directions, providing both John and Mark with the inspiration to complete the 14km journey.

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John’s 50th Year Medal and certificate, above his original (first) 1971 race number and certificate

John and Mark Willcocks celebrate the end of John’s 50th City2Surf and Mark’s 32nd

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By Deb Ferguson

E

mu Plains resident Tracey Horey, a dogobsessed Aussie and puppy-parent to anxious dog Rafferty is the co-founder of a unique new online platform set to take Australia by storm.

For years Tracey had struggled with the lack of options for her and Raff to play safely without the unwelcome interactions of other dogs (or humans) at the local off-leash dog park.

Add to that, the urban sprawl and housing blocks becoming smaller and smaller, she realised that if she was experiencing this kind of struggle, there must be thousands of other dog lovers around the country that felt the same way.

The idea of Sniffspace was born...Australia’s only online directory of privately owned, safe and secure off-leash spaces for dogs and their owners around the country.

Not only is Sniffspace the perfect solution for dog owners, it’s equally a

great idea for homeowners, enabling them to earn a passive income from their backyard when it’s not being used. Hosts can set up their own calendar on the site and bookings are done automatically with dog owners searching, finding and paying for the spaces they want to book at sniffspace.com.au.

Tracey’s first Facebook video explaining the concept of Sniffspace reached over 75,000 people in the first 10 days, a fair indication that she isn’t the only puppy-parent in town searching for a better alternative!

The drive is now on to find homeowners who like the sound of supplementing their income with a platform that is free to list on, with total control of their own calendar and automated bookings and payments. See www. sniffspace.com.au to learn more, or watch the video with co-founder Tracey Horey: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=acQQdMsOhJw

www.choicesflooring.com.au

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Emu Plains resident’s idea for anxious pets

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Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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local news

Council receives white ribbon accreditation

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith City Council is proud to announce it has officially been recognised as a White Ribbon Australia Accredited Workplace after successfully completing the White Ribbon Australia Workplace Accreditation Program.

The program, facilitated by community service organisation Communicare, champions a culture of respect and gender equality at all levels of an organisation, and supports organisations to respond to and prevent violence against women.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said Penrith City Council took part in the accreditation process to equip staff with the knowledge and resources to better understand what gendered violence is, how to identify it and what they can do to prevent it.

“As part of the accreditation program, we’ve also implemented mandatory and comprehensive Towards Zero staff training. This provides our staff with the knowledge and skills to ‘call it, challenge it and change it’ when faced with inappropriate behaviour. Through Towards Zero we’ve also put robust policies in place, created resources to support victims, and have trained support officers and single point contacts for victims of violence, bullying and harassment.”

“We’re very proud to be recognised as an official White Ribbon Australia Workplace and to play our part in responding to and ending violence against women, plus developing a strong culture that calls out any forms of violence, bullying or harassment no matter who is experiencing it. It’s incredibly important that we all stand up and speak out against any inappropriate behaviour and hold perpetrators accountable,” Cr McKeown said.

To achieve accreditation, organisations must meet 15 criteria under three standards to create a safer and more respectful workplace which is taking active steps to stop violence against women.

The program is internationally recognised and to

date has reached more than 600,000 employees nationally.

As part of the White Ribbon Australia Workplace Accreditation Program, Council delivered numerous key achievements including the: • formation of an internal White Ribbon Steering Committee • launch of the Towards Zero Violence, Bullying and Harassment program • development and release of our Domestic and Family Violence Support Statement • introduction of extended domestic and family violence leave provisions for Council employees • creation of resources to assist in our response to victims and perpetrators of violence • review of our domestic and family violence workplace risk assessment and workplace safety plan • delivery of education and training programs to

help build knowledge among employees and People Leaders.

White Ribbon Australia Executive Director Brad Chilcott congratulated Penrith City Council for joining the more than 240 Australian workplaces to have achieved accreditation.

“Violence against women impacts on the health and safety of employees, their wellbeing and their productivity. It also has a negative impact on workplace culture, organisational reputation and bottom-line profit and loss. We urge all Australian workplaces to take the lead of Penrith City Council and demonstrate a culture of zero tolerance of violence against women,” said Mr Chilcott.

White Ribbon Australia is a part of a global social movement working to eliminate gendered violence, striving for an Australian society where all women and children are safe, including in our workplaces.

To find out more, visit the Council website.

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T

anya Davies MP announced commuters driving to St Marys Station to catch public transport will soon have access to 250 new parking spaces, with planning underway for the proposed two storey upgrade to the existing multi-storey carpark on Harris Street.

“The work, which is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, would support the proposed new metro station and interchange at St Marys as part of the Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport project,” Mrs Davies said.

“The upgrade would not only provide greater public transport options for commuters using the station but also reduce congestion on our roads and support dozens of jobs in our local area.

“The proposal includes adding two levels to the existing multi-storey commuter car park to provide around 250 new spaces. These spaces would offset the future removal of some commuter parking as part of the proposed Sydney Metro - Western Sydney Airport, meaning there will be an overall increase of around 120 parking spaces in the area,” Mrs Davies said.

Additional key features of the

commuter car park proposal include: • a new lift and extension of the existing lift and stairs • additional accessible parking spaces • additional motorcycle parking

bays • provision for future electric vehicle charging spaces • CCTV, lighting and wayfinding for improved safety and security • provision for future Transport

Park & Ride infrastructure (Opal operated boom gates) The Review of Environmental Factors for the project is available to view online and the community is invited to provide their feedback on the concept design by 5pm Friday 18 December 2020: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ stmarys During construction, the multistorey carpark on Harris Street will remain open, however, parking on the top floor, second floor and some spaces on the ground floor will be unavailable in order to complete the work safely.

“The loss of these car spaces is temporary and we anticipate it will not have a significant impact on commuter use, with reduced parking demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We will closely monitor parking during the construction of the new carpark and explore potential alternative parking solutions if required,” Tanya Davies MP said.

Subject to planning approval, construction on the multi-storey car park extension is planned to begin in early 2021.

To find out more please visit: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/ commuter-car-park-program

Latest stage of The Northern Road upgrade opens to motorists

T

he Northern Road upgrade continues to drive forward with the full duplication expected to be open to motorists in 2022.

The latest section of the $1.6 billion Northern Road upgrade will open to traffic this weekend after the completion of a new 1.8-kilometre stretch of road.

The upgrade between Eaton Road and Elizabeth Drive has delivered a bypass of the Luddenham Town Centre with two lanes in each direction.

Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the upgrade will boost the road’s capacity to meet increasing demand in Western Sydney.

“It’s great to see more sections opening to traffic as we get closer to the finish line on the Northern Road,” Mr Tudge said.

“As the population grows in the west, it’s critical that we continue deliver infrastructure like the Northern Road on time.”

New South Wales Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the upgrade would provide easier, faster and safer travel for motorists travelling through Western Sydney and help support the new Western Sydney Airport.

“We are improving crucial infrastructure now ahead of the expected population and economic

growth we’re going to see,” Mr Constance said.

“Importantly, bypassing Luddenham town centre helped preserve the heritage buildings and homes along with the existing The Northern Road corridor, which is critical to the town’s historical character.

“This is part of our government’s commitment to build roads for Western Sydney and invest in the region’s infrastructure in advance of population growth, where a further one million people are expected to be living by 2031.”

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor said there would also be improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists by providing a new shared path.

“This project will see improved safety for all road users by installing traffic lights at some intersections,” Mr Taylor said.

“It will also include building a central median to separate opposing traffic flows as well as providing turning lanes at some intersections.

“The upgrade will improve access, safety and travel times for road freight in Sydney’s west and south west.”

The project is jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $1.2 billion and the NSW Government $351 million.

More information on the Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan is available at https://v2.communityanalytics. com.au/rms/wsip#.

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Extra parking planned for St Marys Station

15

Merry Christmas

​The Christmas gift that keeps food on our tables

I

n the lead up to Christmas, one of Australia’s largest charities is encouraging Australians to keep farmers in need in their thoughts by hosting Christmas parties with a cause or buying a gift card for a primary producer family as a gift.

CEO of Rural Aid John Warlters says it has been a particularly challenging year for the farming sector and a small gesture at Christmas time can have a major impact on rural families.

“Drought, bushfire and flood are regular and devastating realities for Australian farmers. These challenges create financial, emotional and practical hurdles for this crucial sector of our community and economy; the people who put food on our tables and clothes on our back,” Mr Warlters said.

“This year has featured all of these challenges. Vast swathes of farmland are still in drought and, in addition, covid created new pressures for farmers this year. Domestic border closures impacted the supply chain for farmers, and international border closures impacted the workforce of shearers and fruit pickers.”

But, Mr Warlters said this festive season, Australians can make a difference in many ways.

The gift of giving. Buy a gift card on the behalf of a friend or family

member and make a real difference in the life of a farming family. www. ruralaid.org.au/christmas Buy your Christmas Cards through us, and a percentage of the purchase

I hope you enjoy sharing this holiday season over Christmas and New Year with family, friends & loved ones.

I wish you all a brighter and more positive 2021.

MAYOR

KAREN McKEOWN

OAM

Phone: 0401 995 945 | karen.mckeown@penrith.city

will be given to farmers in need. www. charitygreetingcards.com.au/charity/ buy-a-bale.html Christmas party with a cause. Add a fun and inspiring theme to your party

such as “dress like a farmer” and raise some funds for primary producers.

Find out more ways to give our farming families a brighter Christmas at www.ruralaid.org.au/christmas

Prue Car MP “ Member for Londonderry

A Very Merry Christmas to you and your family. All the best for 2021 and enjoy the holiday season!

“

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

16

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. December 2020

Arcadia Place Santa still bringing Christmas cheer

2 Reindeer at Arcadia Place

By Noel Rowsell

A

rcadia Place Santa George Asciak has been celebrating Christmas with his fundraising light show and working as one of Santa’s helpers for the past 18 years but Covid-19 made 2020 just a little bit more challenging.

George’s Christmas display in Arcadia Place Colyton is down to approximately 25% of it’s regular size but local sponsors and the community are rallying strongly with their support, with all donations going to Nepean Hospital.

Santa had a special surprise for children in the hospital during the week, greeting them all

Santa on Zoom at Nepean Hospital

individually via zoom and ensuring presents were still brought down from the North Pole in a Covidfriendly manner.

Maryann Ciccone, Fundraising and Events Manager at Nepean Hospital wrote to George saying “I am very pleased you have selected Nepean Hospital as the beneficiary of your fundraising event. It is rewarding to know that the work we (Nepean Hospital) do is valued in the community.”

George is upbeat about the restrictions and is confident people will still donate to his fundraising

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year & all the best for 2021 COUNCILLOR

ROSS

FOWLER OAM

Phone: 0419 738 484

campaign for the Hospital, with donations of money or gifts.

The fundraising page is Making a Difference | George Asciak (gofundraise.com.au) and you can also follow his progress on his Facebook page Arcadia place santa | Facebook George is putting his toy-making and fundraising abilities to even more use now, during the remainder of the year, joining St Clair Men’s Shed to contribute even more of his energy and expertise in support of the local community.

“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”

17 Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Merry Christmas

We thank you for your support during the past year and wish you all the joy and peace of Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Suite 1, 86 Henry Street, Penrith 2750

info@grassiassociates.com.au

Solicitor Director: Joseph M Grassi Dip Law (SAB) LLM Accredited Specialist Property Law Notary Public Solicitor: Grant Wiblin LLB, BSocSc, GDipLegalPrac Licensed Conveyancer: Wendy Harvey | Office Manager: Lois Grassi | Administration: Emily Beal

Member

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

12

Merry Christmas We are open all Christmas and New years, Thank you for your loyalty and support in an unprecedented year, Bring on 2021 !!!

www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

4732 5369

Natalie, Janis and Teresa would love to wish you a very Merry Christmas & a safe New Year! nballard@novuslawgroup.com.au

ML No. 405714685

www.novuslawgroup.com.au m. 0404 474 084

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season and joyous New Year East West Kitchens & Joinery Phone 02 9673 2621 84 Glossop St, St Marys NSW 2760

www.eastwestkitchens.com.au

Andrew & Anthea Strathdee Together with the entire LMAC team would like to wish you & your family a Merry Christmas & cool New Year!

We wo uld & read like to wish & a sa ers a very M our loyal cl i fe & p rosper erry Christ ents o m u a s New Enjoy Year a s the ho head. liday s you al e l again ason and se e in 202 1.

NEPEAN BELLE PADDLEWHEELER

Wishing you all a verY

Merry Christmas and safe New Year

Thank you for the support you have shown us through this COVID pandemic.

Captain Chris & Carol Bennett

Merry Christmas

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

20

Have fun, be merry but please be safe on the road

W

e’ve all heard that old Bing Crosby Christmas song, “I’ll be home for Christmas”, a poignant reminder to us all of the importance of being amongst family at such a special time of year.

However the reality is that during the Christmas period, many lives are lost on Australian roads leaving countless families and friends devastated as they started to plan a funeral rather than celebrating around the Christmas tree.

As well as fatalities, there’s also the devastating impact of road trauma.

Research shows that for every one death on the road, 30 people are hospitalised, with estimates that approximately 35,000 people are seriously injured each year in crashes on our nations roads.

So as we head into the festive season, Road Safety Education Limited (RSE), the leading road safety education organisation and the provider of the RYDA program, urge us all to “Drive So Others Survive”, and use the words from various Christmas carols to help get us home safely.

God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen (and women!)…

Don’t let yourself drive if you’re feeling very tired, as fatigue can cause you to lose concentration on the road. Fatigue is suspected to be the primary cause of more than 20% of road fatalities. If you are on the road and you start to yawn, your eyes feel heavy or your concentration is waning, pull over and take a 15 minute power nap.

We wish you a Merry Christmas… – but not too merry… We’ve all heard the statistics and campaigns around drink driving in this country.

Whilst the legal limit of alcohol in your system on

the road is 0.05 in most cases, your best bet is to avoid drinking alcohol all together if you plan on driving the family around at Christmas time.

Alcohol impairs your judgement, gives you slower reaction times, causes fatigue and if over the limit, you may end up with fines and loss of your license, or worse – causing serious injury to you, your family and others on the road.

Silent Night …. The possibility of road crashes increases at night, due to visibility issues, fatigue and wildlife. If you are travelling at night and your car breaks down, ensure that you put your hazard lights on so that you’re visible to oncoming traffic.

On behalf of St Marys Town Centre Ltd, we would like to thank our businesses and the community of St Marys for your support throughout 2020.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.

Do you hear what I hear? …. Hopefully you are not hearing the sound of your mobile phone – a major distraction in a vehicle. Being distracted increases your chances of having a crash. It slows down your reaction times and puts you in danger of failing to see hazards such as traffic lights, stop signs or other road users, including pedestrians and bicycle riders. This Christmas put your phone in the glove box and drive safely!

Find lots of great safety tips visit Road Safety Education at rse.org,au Because after all, all your family really want for Christmas…. Is you!

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year & all the best for 2021 Councillor

JOHN

THAIN (02) 9833 2433 www.facebook.com/stmarystowncentreltd stmarystowncentre.com.au

Phone: 0411 427 812 john.thain@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

Lions fundraising efforts feel the bite of Covid-19

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Lions Club of Emu Plains has been just one of many local Service Clubs which have felt the financial brunt of Covid-19 in 2020, with their fund-raising activities severely curtailed and as a result, less funds coming in to support charities in the Nepean District.

Lions Emu Plains Publicity Officer Jim Devine said “2020 has been an ‘annus covid infectus adios trumpus’.”

“But, there have been some bright spots for the Club and some hope for both next year and the future.

I would like to thank all those supporters who together this year bought a record number of Christmas cakes and puddings, from the mighty corporate buyer like Sharon Mudiman and her Bespoke Realty Group to ‘1st timers’ like The Royce at Panthers, Tanti Financial Services and down to the individuals who bought a single Christmas mini-cake - Thank you.”

“To the Christmas cake selling team, thank you. To those advertisers and supporters of our raffles and other fundraisers, thank you. To the

21 Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Merry Christmas

Photos: Supplied by Jim Devine

press who carry our stories to the local community; Kerrie and Noel at Nepean News, thank you. To the charities we have supported and those we have missed, please note we will try our best to assist you in 2021, as much as our resources allow,” said Jim. “To our guest speakers of 2020, I hope you found the forum beneficial to your cause and we hope to cross paths again in 2021. To all those people who read this publication and are stimulated and would like to help, WE NEED YOU! join a (our) Lions Club TODAY. Thank you, Merry

Christmas and Happy New Year.”

Whilst Christmas is almost upon us and the Lions have sold all of their cakes and puddings, it’s never too late

to support local Service Clubs and know you are contributing to those less fortunate, particularly in the local area.

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

Wishing you and your family a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy & Safe New Year

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

Deputy Mayor

Phone 0417 365 313

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

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

22

local news

Brain cancer kills more young people than any other cancer

W

hile most families are eagerly anticipating Christmas together, catching up with loved ones they haven’t seen for months, Sarah and her family face a nervous wait.

This week, Sarah will have her first scans since her brain tumour was removed during emergency surgery in May. Until that fateful day, 46-year-old Sarah was a busy working mum.

After celebrating with friends for the first time since the lockdown, Sarah went to bed happy. That night she awoke with a severe headache and was vomiting. An hour later at the hospital, a CT scan revealed a large tumour on Sarah’s brain and an MRI showed it was pressing on a major artery and needed to be removed immediately.

“I went into surgery with Ciaran kissing me goodbye,” says Sarah.

“The next thing I remember was waking in ICU with heavy machines.

I remember feeling happy because I wasn’t in pain and I was still alive.

But I was very aware that I couldn’t move my legs or my head.”

Six months on, Sarah has made huge progress on the road to recovery and regained full use of her legs.

However, given the dangerous

location of her tumour, doctors could only remove about 85% of it.

This week, Sarah will find out if the tumour has grown and what that will mean for her future.

Sadly, Sarah’s story is not unique. This year, thousands of Australians with brain cancer will be spending Christmas with loved ones wondering whether it could be their last.

For many, this will be their first Christmas without a loved one who’s been taken by brain cancer, as just 2 in 10 people survive for five

years after a brain cancer diagnosis.

That’s not fair.

Surviving brain cancer shouldn’t be a Christmas miracle and that’s why your support this year is more important than ever.

Brain cancer kills more Australian children than any disease, and more young people than any other cancer.

Give the gift of hope this Christmas by donating today and helping to fund the world’s best brain cancer research and clinical trials. www.curebraincancer.org.au/

Spate of Christmas house fires prompts safety warning from sparkies

M

aster Electricians Australia is urging home owners to check the safety of their Christmas lights installations, following a spate of electrical fires in recent days.

At least two of the fires, in Brisbane and Adelaide, are believed to have been caused by festive light displays, while faulty electrical fittings have contributed to other fires.

MEA Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Richards said a house fire was tragic at any time of year, but there was a heightened risk of fire at Christmas time.

“Christmas lights displays bring so much happiness to families and to neighbourhoods, but as well as being festive they also need to be safe,” Mr Richards said.

“Already this summer we’ve seen a number of tragedies where families have lost their homes. Enough is enough – we don’t want to see lives lost as well.”

Master Electricians Australia has produced a safety checklist to help Australians ensure their Christmas displays are as safe as possible.

“This is a Christmas list that every Aussie home owner should be checking twice,” Mr Richards said.

The safety checklist includes: • Ensuring lights and other appliances have an Australian approval number • Having safety switches on all circuits in your home

• Only using designated outdoor electrical products outside the home • Not using double adapters on power boards • Having working smoke detectors

• Checking appliances and cables for damage before using them “If you go to the effort of decorating your house for Christmas, please go to the extra effort of a a quick internet

check to ensure you and your family are as safe as possible.”

The full, free safety checklist is available at www.masterelectricians. com.au

local news

N

epean Solar Solutions has committed to providing a high level of customer service and a minimum five-year whole of system and installation warranty on all solar systems after signing on to the Clean Energy Council Solar Retailer Code of Conduct. The code of conduct, which is currently the only solar industry code of conduct authorised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), is designed to give consumers peace of mind when making the decision to invest in a solar system by helping them select a quality retailer. Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Kane Thornton said people had a lot of things to consider when making a major purchase such as a solar energy system, and the process could be confusing. “By choosing to buy from a business that has signed up to our voluntary Solar Retailer Code of Conduct, you are choosing a business which has committed to a higher standard of quality and service,” he said. “The solar industry is well regulated, with all systems needing to meet Australian standards and be installed by a specially trained and accredited solar installer. This code is another important step that provides consumers with even greater confidence, and the ability to select a retailer who guarantees a high level of customer service.”

Nepean Solar Solution spokesperson Jim Hill said customers should look for the Clean Energy Council Approved Solar Retailer logo to choose a business that has signed on to the code.

A full list of Approved Solar Retailers can be found at approvedsolarretailer.com.au.

Customers can expect that a Clean Energy Council Approved Solar Retailer will: Pre-sale • ensure that sales representatives act ethically at all times • not engage in any dishonest or misleading advertising or sales tactics • educate consumers about their purchase by supplying essential information about the system in writing before entering into a contract. This includes

site-specific full system design and an average daily performance estimate for each month of solar generation Post-sale • uphold consumers’ legal rights relating to coolingoff periods and refunds. They will give customers the chance to cancel a contract and obtain a full refund if any changes are made that are not approved in writing (including variations to system design) • provide a minimum five year warranty covering the operation and performance of the entire solar system • fully inform customers about the processes involved between system installation and network

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Nepean Solar Solutions commits to raising the bar in the solar industry

27

connection, or facilitate this process on their behalf General business • provide consumers with all required documentation after the system is installed • adhere to all existing legislation and regulations • be fully accountable for the actions of any subcontracted parties, including CleanEnergy Council-accredited installers/designers • have a fair and transparent complaints process, and respond to customers within 21days of them making a complaint Please contact Nepean Solar Solutions representative Jim Hill on 0425 281 626 for more information or to arrange an interview.

• Tailored Design Solutions • Battery Storage Solutions • System Performance Monitoring 24/7 • Strong Product & Installation Warranties • High Government Rebates

Beat YOUR ELECTRICTY BILL

www.nepeansolar.com.au nepeansolar.com.au

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

28

local COLUMNIST

A holiday for your pet A

s local veterinarians, we often asked where to find the best boarding kennel or cattery in the area, or do we know any dog sitters. At Greencross Coreen Ave, we understand that sending your pet to a boarding facility can be a stressful time for both you and your family pet. It is important that you choose a facility or person that you can trust and understands your pets needs.

Your search for advice might begin with your local veterinarians but it shouldn’t end there. A great way to find the right boarding kennel is to check with friends to see if they have any personal recommendations, especially if they have a similar breed of dog. You can also check a boarding kennel’s website and arrange a visit of the facility. A reputable kennel and cattery will encourage a visit to meet their current happy boarders and friendly staff.

Remember if you are boarding your dog or cat in a facility they will need to be up to date with their vaccinations. If they have not had a vaccination in the last few years this will need to be performed at least two weeks before their stay. It is also a good idea to apply their regular flea and tick control also before admission and also ensure that their microchip details are up to date.

If your pet requires any special dietary requirements or medications it is a good idea to

discuss this with the staff. Any potential issues and special needs can be better managed if a plan is put in place and all options discussed. Leaving an emergency contact number and your regular veterinarians phone number is also important with pets that have special needs.

After the check in process, trust that your pet is in good hands, say goodbye and leave. Avoid a long goodbye as this often confuses your family pet. At Greencross Coreen Ave we are happy to arrange updates via email or Facebook to reassure you that your pet is enjoying their holiday as much as you are.

Boarding vacancies are limited. If you need to discuss boarding requirements for your pet you can phone any of our local Greencross clinics at Coreen Ave, Winmalee, Faulconbridge and Marsden Park.

We wish you and your pet a very Merry Christmas & a restful New Year. If you find yourself in need of a Veterinarian over the Christmas period phone us on 0247313055. We will be open over the Christmas/New year period for limited hours except Christmas Day and Boxing Day when we will be closed. In an emergency please contact the Animal Referral Hospital at Homebush on (02) 9758 8666.

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

Not everyone is a fan of New Years Eve!

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

s we head towards the end of the year, its a good time to think about your pets and the New Years Eve festivities. Although we all love to celebrate the dawning of a new year (especially after the one we’ve just had!) dogs and cats don’t usually enjoy the shenanigans.

There’ll be many celebrations locally that may involve fireworks, loud cheering, music and popping sounds. Unfortunately, what sounds like great fun to us isn’t to pets - it is terrifying.

The RSPCA says these out of the ordinary sounds can indirectly pose risks to animal safety by causing them to take flight and try to escape the loud noises.

“Dogs and horses in particular often try to run away when frightened by fireworks, and may injure themselves,” a spokesperson from the RSPCA said.

“Many of these animals can end up several kilometres from home. Dogs have been known to jump through plate glass windows to escape loud noises, and easily jump over, or dig their way under fences that would normally contain them.”

What can I do for my dog?

• Prepare early.

• Talk to your vet about the treatment options available for managing noise phobias – ask them about any new treatment options.

• Take your dog out for exercise before the fireworks start e.g. a reasonably long walk, then after a couple of hours you can feed them a meal. A tired and well-fed dog may be less anxious during the night. If you can, stay home to be with your pet.

• Let your dog be with you, remain calm and perform your normal activities. Avoid fussing over your pet excessively as this may encourage anxious

behaviour. Try to engage them in normal activities such as playing. Reward your dog for their calm behaviour, rewards include giving dog treats and their favourite dog toy.

• Keep your dog indoors if possible, close the blinds/curtains to decrease visual stimuli, and create a comfortable hiding place. An example of a hiding place can be a cardboard box with blankets inside.

Cover the box with another blanket and put on some soft music or the TV to help mask the noise outside.

• Distract your dog with games and food. Do not force these on your dog if they want to hide instead.

• Do not punish your dog if they show signs of fear and distress.

• Dogs who panic can choke themselves on a collar or lead, so never tether your dog during these times and never use a choke chain to restrain your dog.

• Make sure your dog is microchipped and that your contact details are up to date on the microchip register. Also ensure they are wearing an ID tag with your up to date contact details, so they can be easily returned if they accidentally escape.

• Direct supervision is important to help prevent injury or escape. If you cannot supervise your dog on

the night consider making alternative arrangements so your dog will be supervised by a responsible person directly or you could even consider boarding your dog with a good and reputable boarding kennel so they will be safe.

• Dog-appeasing pheromones may help to reduce the intensity of fear in your dog, and can help create a calming environment.

• Dogs should not be left outside alone as this greatly increases the risk of them experiencing fear and distress as well as a greater likelihood of escape.

What about cats and other pets?

The RSPCA suggests that cats should be kept indoors during fireworks displays.

“Most cats will find somewhere safe to hide and will usually venture out when the noise stops; ensure that they have some comfortable and safe places to hide Make sure you cat is microchipped and your details are up to date on the microchip register in case they escape and become lost,” the spokesperson said.

“Rabbits and other small animals like guinea pigs should be safely housed during the fireworks display.

“Horses are particularly vulnerable to bolting when exposed to fireworks. In preparation for a known fireworks event nearby, if possible, horses should be securely stabled or temporarily moved to a location away from the fireworks display, to minimise the risk of them physically harming themselves.

“Any sharp objects that might injure a panicking horse should be removed, stable windows should be covered to hide the sight of the fireworks and to reduce the noise, and food and water should be available for the horse.”

local news

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith visited Emu Heights Public School to announce they have secured a grant of $119,614 through the NSW Government’s 2020 Community Building Partnership Program.

Stuart Ayres said he was pleased to nominate Emu Heights Public School P & C’s application for this funding that will go towards construction of covered outdoor learning area (COLA).

“Improving facilities for students both in and out of the classroom are key priorities and this upgrade will offer a shaded area for outside learning as well as a great play space no matter what the weather.”

“This is a fantastic win for Emu Heights Public School and I look forward to seeing the finalised project.”

Mr Owen Sargeant, EHPS P& C President said this is very exciting news and reflects the commitment to the school from the P&C. “A permanent shade structure will provide a great opportunity for the students and teachers to

access opportunities outside of the classroom. Over time, it is proposed to add resources to the structure for greater usage by not only the school but also the community as a whole.”

The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 15,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

Applications for the 2021 Program

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Outdoor learning and play for Emu Heights Public school

29

open in early 2021.

For more information about the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a new year filled with happiness

AUSTRALIA’S FRIENDLIEST GRAPHIC DESIGNERS & PRINTERS

4731 5055

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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local news

Final design unveiled for regatta park’s transformation

R

egatta Park on the Nepean River is set to become the new focal point for nature, leisure and recreation in Western Sydney with the final design for a $24 million upgrade showcasing a spectacular transformation.

The final design released today is the result of years of careful planning, and consultation with the community and brings to life a shared vision for Regatta Park as a dynamic space that celebrates, activates, and enhances the Nepean River.

Funding to transform Regatta Park was announced as part of the Western Sydney City Deal, with $9 million contributed from Penrith City Council and $15 million from the Australian and NSW Governments through the Western Sydney City Deal’s Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the Regatta Park project showcases collaboration between all levels of government and the community to deliver a city-shaping project which will be enjoyed for generations to come.

“Regatta Park is an important and much-loved part of the Nepean River precinct and it’s wonderful to see all levels of government and our community work together to create an iconic park for Penrith that we can all be proud of,” Cr McKeown said.

“The delivery of the new Regatta Park precinct and Council’s ongoing program of work to revitalise the Nepean River will further strengthen Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city.”

Melissa McIntosh MP, Federal Member for Lindsay, said this significant investment will not only create a fantastic space for local families to enjoy, but also a unique area that will attract visitors from all over Western Sydney.

“Our community took an active role in designing an interactive play space which is fully fenced and includes play equipment for children of all ages which is a key feature of Regatta Park. This is a fantastic display of community spirit and I look forward to seeing the project when it is underway,” said Ms McIntosh.

“Families will be able to access a pathway to the river, new playgrounds, outdoor dining and kiosk areas as well as sporting ovals. These upgrades and enhancing our natural environment also mean families have access to healthy, active living in our community.”

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said Regatta Park was already a destination for Penrith residents and the planned upgrade would make the most of the open space.

“Fresh air, recreation, and the great outdoors have never been more important to Sydneysiders,” Mr Ayres said.

Aerial view of the proposed works at Regatta Park amongst existing mature trees and new trees at approx. 10 years maturity.

Artist impression of the proposed inclusive playground at Regatta Park, under the shade of existing mature trees.

Artist impression of the proposed water play area under a new shade structure, adjacent existing mature trees.

“This massive investment will transform the experience of a visit to Regatta Park and make it a valued local asset for generations to come.”

The final design features two new playgrounds, an accessible pathway to the river foreshore, over-water viewing platforms, a kiosk with outdoor dining areas, junior cricket oval, functional carpark and green open space areas for a variety of activities.

A key feature of the new Regatta

Park is a new inclusive play space which was designed by the community using an interactive online tool earlier this year. The play space is fully fenced and includes high-quality play equipment for kids of all ages.

An additional 400 trees are set to be planted throughout the precinct to increase Penrith’s green grid, provide natural shade as well as create a shaded link from Penrith’s City Centre to the Nepean River.

Further enhancement of Regatta

Park is planned in the future with the adaptive reuse of the Old Police Cottage. Council is working to restore this heritage building and bring it to life with a café and restaurant that offers magnificent views of the Nepean River.

Construction of the project is due to start in June 2021, with the upgrade set to be complete in 2022.

Find out more at: penrith.city/ regattapark or visit yoursaypenrith. com.au/regatta-park.

Discover Penrith CBD this Christmas Find the 12 QR codes for a chance to win $1,000 worth of vouchers www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au/christmas-code/ for details

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ENTERTAINMENT

L

ive music venues and small bars are set to enjoy more freedoms as the NSW Government’s 24-hour economy reforms to revitalise Sydney’s nightlife are rolled out.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said from today a series of liquor law changes to support live music venues and small bars will begin in time for the busy festive season.

“These laws will cut red tape and breathe new life into NSW’s 24-hour economy as the hospitality industry continues to recover from the impacts of COVID,” Mr Dominello said.

“From today outdated live entertainment restrictions such as limits on the number of musicians on a stage and the genres of music or types of instruments being played will be automatically lifted from liquor licences.

“Many of these archaic conditions date back decades and now no longer serve any purpose. Getting rid of them will free up venues to expand their entertainment offerings and give music-lovers more options for enjoying a night out.

“Councils will be given new powers to make it easier to remove these types of conditions from development consents.”

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said small bars and live music venues are increasingly popular in Sydney and regional areas, boosting jobs and their local economies.

“The easing of these restrictions will mean more locals and visitors can enjoy our world class entertainment venues and it will also help the hospitality industry continue its recovery after a tough year,” Mr Ayres said.

“Small bars that regularly serve

meals, host live entertainment or cultural events or have a retail offering such as a record store now have options to allow minors under the right circumstances.”

The latest changes for the hospitality sector taking effect on 11 December include permitting small bars to trade on Christmas Day and Good Friday, as well as new incentives like 30 minutes extra trading for certain venues in the City of Sydney that put on live music performances and arts and cultural events.

SUDOKU: EASY

The reforms follow on from the Government’s response to NSW Parliament’s Joint Select Committee on Sydney’s night-time economy, the NSW Government’s 24-hour Economy Strategy and complement recent changes to outdoor dining regulations, which make it easier for businesses to offer alfresco dining.

A new demerit point system that aims to reward well-managed venues, minimise violence and reduce serious liquor law breaches will come into effect on 1 January.

SUDOKU: HARD

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill the grid so that every column, every row & every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 with no duplicates

SOLUTIONS: 10 December EASY

MEDIUM

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Small bars and live music venues to enjoy more freedoms

33

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

34

ENTERTAINMENT

Keegan’s Kitchen Best drunk Christmas pudding recipe This is a recipe that was jokingly handed down to me by my nan, and it was handed down to her by her mother, so it is a multigenerational recipe. It is a bit of a joke how easy this recipe is but there are some hidden meanings behind some of the method. Remember Christmas was made for overindulging so when you’re making this pudding, if you’re able to, make sure you have a few drinks handy! This recipe is best read aloud at first.

Ingredients: 1 cup of sugar 1 cup of butter 4 large eggs 1 cup of dried fruit 1 cup of brown sugar 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1 teaspoon of salt Lemon juice mixed nuts 1 or 2 bottles of fine whiskey Method: Before you start, sample the whiskey to check for quality, you don’t want it to have gone off. Select a large bowl, measuring cup and other utensils. Check the whiskey again as it must be just right.

To be sure the whiskey is of the highest quality, pour one level cup into a glass and drink it as fas as you can. Savour the feeling.

With an electric mixer, beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl. Add one teaspoon of sugar and beat again.

CHRISTMAS JOKES What goes “Oh, Oh, Oh”?

Santa walking backwards!

Why was the snowman looking through the carrots?

He was picking his nose!

What is the best Christmas present in the world?

A broken drum, you just can’t beat it!

Meanwhile make sure the whiskey is as good as it was at first. Cry aanother cup.

Open second bottle if neshessary.

Add 2 large leggs, 2 cups of fried druit and beat until high. Shample the whishkey again to check it for consh… conshis… sonshistenshy. Next sift 3 cups of or antyhing-it really doesn’t matter… CHECK whiskey again for lumps by tasting it.

Grind a pint of lemon juice, fold in chopped butter and strained nuts. Add 1 babblespoon of brown sugar or any old colour you can find, my favourite colour is orange so that is a good one too. Mix well until you’re happy with it and it smells good I guess?

If you have any left over whiskey finish the bottle and add it to the mix.

Grease the oven and turn the cake pan to 350 gagrees. Pour the lot into the empty hiskey wottle from the first one, stir it into the boven and ake. Winish the friskey off if any left over and bo to ged.

What did Adam say the day before Christmas?

“It’s Christmas, Eve!” What did the stamp say to the Christmas card?

Stick with me and we’ll go places!

Why did no one bid for Rudolph and Blitzen on eBay? Because they were two deer!

What is Santa’s primary language?

North Polish.

What did Mrs. Claus say to Santa Claus when she looked up in the sky?

Looks like rain, dear!

What do you call Santa living at the South Pole?

A lost clause!

What’s the difference between Santa Clause and a knight?

One slays a dragon, the other drags a sleigh!

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Being the embodiment of (14) 10 Constructed (5) 11 Woefully inadequate (9) 12 Quivers (7) 13 Reading carefully (7) 14 Float (5) 16 X-Ray science (9) 19 Boxers (9) 20 Secret agents (5) 22 Runs away (7) 25 Made known (7) 27 Women in love (9) 28 Secluded places (5) 29 Impassive (14))

down 2 Using (9) 3 French for “Our” (5) 4 Photographs (9) 5 Build or erect (5) 6 Extremely wicked (9) 7 Runs an engine in neutral (5) 8 Faithfully (7) 9 Maltreated (6) 15 Bell’s invention (9) 17 Outlaw (9) 18 Deletions (9) 19 Assumption (7) 21 Gets pleasure from causing

pain (6) 23 Brooch (5) 24 Arguments (5) 26 Committee (5)

solution 26/11/20

ENTERTAINMENT 16th, 23rd And 30th January 2pm and 7pm

T

he timeless “Wizard of Oz” tale has been adapted into a dazzling musical. A cyclone carries Dorothy and Toto to the magical Land of Oz. When Dorothy’s house squashes the Wicked Witch of the East, she is ecstatically thanked by the liberated Munchkins and given permission to wear the witch’s powerful silver slippers. From there, Baum’s lovable characters, rubber-legged Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion and Tin Woodsman, join Dorothy on a journey to meet the great Oz. While on their trek, they battle the Wicked Witch of the West, who is determined to get revenge for the death of her sister. This bright musical is charged with a bundle of wonderful songs and thrill after thrill... like the escape from the Fighting Trees and encountering the enchanted poppies. Eventually, Glinda the Good Witch helps Dorothy defeat the evil witch and her winged monkeys. The great and powerful wizard grants Dorothy’s friends their wishes and of course, helps Dorothy return to Kansas.

A note from Ruby Productions “This year has by far been Ruby Productions most challenging year, having to close our little theatre group for seven months because of Covid 19.

When we open our first show in January 2021, we hope it springboards the other theatre communities in Penrith and surrounding areas to ‘re surface’ out of the ’darkness’. We look to the press and public to support us and bring theatre back into their lives.

2021 will mark Ruby Productions tenth anniversary we have been opened. We owe our longevity to the Ruby members who work hard and in particular the John Lees Christian Centre who without a doubt, we would not be here still running.

Our tenth year running has a production opening every month throughout the entire year. No other theatre company has matched us. We are a group of theatre lovers yearning to always do more and deliver even bigger and better shows. To keep updated with what we are doing go to our website at www.rubyproductions.com.au and you can also add your email address to our email mailing list to ensure you don’t miss anything we are staging!”

Ticket price is $25 for adults and $20 concession, $35 at the door.

LIMITED SEATING! To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/BLUOQ To reserve show only phone (02) 47355422.

“OZ” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Ruby Productions presents Oz the musical

35

Cnr Glebe Place & Richmond Road Kingswood NSW Ph: (02) 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

The Directors of the Gaels wishes all members a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year

E V E S R A E Y W

NE

from 8.30pm

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

FRI 18 DEC

Natasha Duarte

SAT 19 DEC

Darren Johnstone

SAT 26 DEC

Ryan Thomas

FRI 1 JAN

Annabel Chevel

from 8pm

SAT 2 JAN

Jay Parrino

SUN 3 JAN

Soul Jamz

ENTERTAINMENT

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has announced that the Penrith Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fire will be receiving a combined $54,000 in NSW Government funding for local arts and cultural activities.

These recipients are among 97 diverse projects as part of the first round of Create NSW’s 2020/21 Arts & Cultural Funding Program on behalf of the NSW Government.

Open to individual artists, arts and cultural workers, partnerships and organisations, the funding supports professional projects at any stage of the creative process, with the aim of delivering a more vibrant and accessible arts and cultural sector in NSW. The Penrith Symphony Orchestra will utilise their funding towards their 2021 Performance Season while the Museum of Fire will develop a digital excursion program aimed at school groups.

Stuart Ayres said the funding will contribute to supporting the local arts community in a time when it is most needed.

“We have a vibrant arts and cultural sector that has been hard hit by the combined impacts year, and I am thrilled the NSW Government is supporting the Penrith Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fire through the Arts and Cultural Funding Program.

“I know that the Penrith community is looking forward to experiencing and engaging with the local arts and cultural sector as they reopen their doors,” said Stuart Ayres.

Minister for the Arts, Don Harwin added “In a year like no other, I am delighted this funding will

support programs and projects estimated to employ over 6,000 artists and reach more than 1.4 million people as audiences and participants in arts and cultural activities across the State.”

Round 1 also includes over $535,000 for projects and programs that are Aboriginal-led or have a significant focus on First Nations content.

“People are hungry to return to theatres, galleries and festivals and to show their support for the sector after such a challenging year, and I’m looking forward to seeing these projects and programs come

KIDS MAZE

to life,” Mr Harwin said.

A full list of Round 1 recipients is available here.

All applications were assessed against published criteria and ranked in order of merit by the Artform Advisory Boards.

Round 2 of Create NSW’s 2020/21 Creative Koori, Project and Annual Organisation funding will open on 1 February 2021. For further information on arts, screen and cultural funding, including targeted support opportunities, visit the Create NSW website at www.create.nsw.gov.au.

WORD SEARCH

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS

GIFTS

JINGLE BELLS

CRACKERS

MANGER

SCROOGE

TREE

NATIVITY

GINGERBREAD

DECORATIONS

MERRY

PRESENTS

FAMILY

SANTA CLAUS

GRINCH

FRIENDS

JOLLY

JACK FROST

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Arts and cultural grants announced for Penrith

37

! a h Alo

MG Activ members celebrate the end of a challenging year There were flowered shirts and grass skirts galore at MG Activ last week when the gym was transformed into a Christmas Party venue!

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NEPEAN HISTORY

three days before the 21st December 1916 and had a “marked stiffness and retraction of the neck area”.

His temperature reached 100 degrees and was t Mary Magdalene cemetery has several observed as “stupid and cannot give any coherent people and families who are now known account of his illness”. Harry died of meningitis as “Australian Royalty”. This is why this in January 1917 aged 26 years and is buried at church and cemetery connected to Governor King’s Stratford-Sub-Castle (St Lawrence) Churchyard in family is very historical and contains over 1,800+ England in Wiltshire. A family member received a burials since 1836. One such Australian Royalty letter from Harry in December 1916 written from the family belongs to the Adams Family (no pun trenches somewhere on the Western Front and not intended!). The Australian side starts with convict long before he fell ill. The letter states “From Pte John Adams, born in England in 1798. At the age Harry Adams, 13th Battalion on active service, to of 23 years he was convicted of sheep stealing at St Marys Cheer Fund. Dear Friends, your parcel of the Derbyshire Assizes and given a life sentence Christmas goods to hand this morning. I thank you to Australia in 1821. He was one of 140 convicts heartily for sending them to me. You know the boys transported on the “Dick” in October 1820. The heartily appreciate a letter or a parcel from home.

1828 census places John as a Government Servant Things are not the same here as at home. It is bitterly and ploughman to George Cox at “Winbourne”. cold and snowing and raining all the time. The snow  Grave of John Adams In July 1830 he was granted permission to marry is falling thickly whilst I am writing this. I have had courtesy of Australia and Sarah Bankin at Cobbitty near Narellan. Sarah was six days furlough, which I spent in London. It is New Zealand Find A Grave Index. born in 1814 at Hornchurch, Greater London. She a great city, full of beautiful buildings and scenery arrived in Australia from England in December 1828 with her last which is quite different to good old Sydney. The people here cannot name wrongly put down as “Banken”. She was an assisted immigrant make us chaps out because we are so cheerful. Well, I would not along with her family on the “Borneo” originally landing at Hobart mind being home for a few days at Christmas but never mind, I can and later she came to NSW. Sarah’s father Richard was born in the only hope to be back for the following one. I was expecting to have County of Essex, England in 1757. He died in Windsor NSW in 1845. a month’s spell, but it cannot be done, as we have to relieve the 2nd Her mother Prudence Bankin (Nee: Perkins) was born in England Division. They will be able to have Christmas out of the firing line, in 1783 and died in Hobart in 1828 soon after arriving in Tasmania. lucky beggars. It was quite a shock when I got the parcel this morning.

John was given a Conditional Pardon in 1838. He died aged 63 at I came in from outpost duty and one of my mates said to me “I say, North Richmond and is buried in St Peters Cemetery there. His death Digger, there’s a parcel up top for you!”. We call everyone “Digger” notice said he “died at his residence in North Richmond leaving a here, as we have to dig ourselves in from being outed by Fritz.” A wife and a large family to deplore their loss, amongst who are Mrs memorial Service was held in January 1917 at St Mary Magdalene Peter Royal (Sarah Adams) of St Marys South Creek and Mrs William Church. The Rector Rev. Bowers preached a touching service that Dunn (Susan Adams)-Innkeeper of the Royal at Hartley”. Sarah died was attended by a number of cadets under the charge of Lieutenant in 1878 at the age of 64 years and is buried in St Mary Magdalene Hope and the Penrith District Band accompanied the singing of the cemetery. Their son Charles William Adams was born at St Marys in hymns. In June, 1917, Harry’s sister at St Marys, Mrs Emma Dollin 1851. He was a shoemaker, originally an apprentice to Paul Herford.

(Adams) received a sympathetic letter from Lieutenant G Waynflete He married Elizabeth Rope in 1879 who was the great-granddaughter who was in charge of Harry’s Company, 4th Battalion at the time of of the convict Rope/Pulley family also Australian Royalty. She was his death. In the course of his letter, Lieutenant Waynflete refers to born in 1858. Her parents were George & Eleanor Rope (Nee: Levers) “the deep regret felt by the company at the decease of Harry who was married in 1879 at St Marys. Charles died in 1897 at St Marys aged a general favourite amongst his comrades”. The Lieutenant was in 45 years and is buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery with Elizabeth charge of the firing party at Harry’s funeral in England and remarks who died aged 36 years in 1895. Their son Harry Adams was an “Old that he was impressed “with the solemn and sweetness of the service”.

Boy” of St Marys Public School in Princess Mary Street, St Marys Selina Burgess, Harry’s aunt, was his “foster mother” because both and lived in Gidley Street. Harry, born in 1891 volunteered in WW1. his parents were dead. She applied for a war pension and was refused He enlisted in 1916 into the 1st AIF, 4th Infantry, 13th Battalion. He as she was not “dependent” on Harry at the time of his enlistment, sailed to England from Sydney in 1916 on the “Wiltshire” and saw but later this decision was overturned, and she received £1 a fortnight. active service on the Western Front in September where the last attack On behalf of our Society I wish you all the best for Christmas and by the Australians at Pozieres commenced just before dawn when the the New Year. The Chambers is still closed until further notice.

British & Canadians took over the fighting. The AIF had been placed 7 times at Pozieres and had lost over 23,000 officers & men. They Sources: Church of England Baptisms, Marriages and Burials, Australian were then sent to Ypres. By October, the 1st-2nd & 5th Divisions of Convict Transportation Registers 1791-1868, British convict transportation the AIF were ordered back to the Somme. In December 1916 Harry registers 1787-1867, NSW Registers of Convicts’ Applications to Marry, 1826was sent back to England and admitted to the New Zealand No. 5 1851, Australia Marriage Index, 1788-1950, NSW Settler and Convict Lists Codford Hospital. He was in this hospital for 18 hours and was then 1787-1834, Australia Death Index, Empire newsletter September 1859, BDM online, Ancestry, Family Search (Mormon website), Nepean Times, National transferred to the infectious unit at the Salisbury Infectious Hospital Archives of Australia, Department of Environment. in isolation. The hospital statement said that Harry had been ill for

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

S

Michelle Latham

michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au

PH: 9623 6656 | MOBILE: 0418 250 242 186 Queen Street, St. Marys (Star Arcade)

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

In the Little Cemetery on the Hill

41

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals 1300 HEVNLY (1300 438 659)

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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SPORT

BRBW Host Women’s Aboriginal RL Knockout

Blacktown Red Belly Warriors Women’s team competed in the Tribal League competition which was played over 3 consecutive weeks and came 3rd overall. Photo supplied.

By Noel Rowsell

I

n 2020, the Blacktown Western Warriors and Red Belly Blacks Indigenous Rugby League Football Clubs merged to establish the Blacktown Red Belly Warriors.

Spokesperson Rondelle Stanley said “This merger further strengthens our presence and reach within the Western Sydney area, providing our indigenous youth (both men and women), with a strong foundation of family, cultural

pride, mentoring, life coaching and mate-ship for life.”

“Western Sydney has the largest indigenous population in Australia, yet many of our youth have limited awareness of their own heritage. It is our aim to not only provide a home for successful sporting achievements but also provide a home for successful cultural and life achievements.

Through song, dance, story-telling, cultural events and mentoring, we strive to educate our youth about their rich history, whilst encouraging engagement within their wider

communities,” said Rondelle.

“Established in 1992, the Blacktown Western Warriors Rugby League Football Club had always aimed to promote and encourage a safe, friendly and supportive environment for our Aboriginal youth and their families.

We have prided ourselves in not only fostering our players with a sense of self-respect, confidence, pride and honour that is demonstrable on the field but also with the awareness of each individual’s significance within our community.

Previous and present players include the likes of Cliff Lyons (NRL Manly Sea Eagles), Jarrod Sammut (NSW Penrith Panthers) and Jake Foster (NRL Canberra Raiders). My grandmother established this club in 1992 to bring the Aboriginal community together and showcase our talent playing the game we love. For many years she hosted an Aboriginal Knockout in Blacktown and my family and I have ensured her legacy lives on by working tirelessly in the community making sure we are creating the same opportunities for our mob.”

“The Red Belly Blacks were established as a brand within the Western Sydney Indigenous Sporting Academy (WSISA) in 2015,” said Rondelle.

Our core values have always been centred around providing the foundations of discipline, hard work, mate-ship and cultural awareness for our aboriginal youth in Western Sydney through the common ground of rugby league. It has always been our belief that with strong mentor-ship our youth will thrive.”

“As we embark on this new chapter, we are excited for what lies ahead for the Blacktown Red Belly Warriors family,” said Rondelle.

“We are kicking off 2021 by hosting a Knockout Tournament at The Kingsway St Marys on 6th February 2021.

Historically, there has been an

Annual NSW Aboriginal Knockout that is held across NSW. Whichever team wins the event becomes the new host for the next year. It started 50 years ago and initially was a men’s knockout but has grown to include the women and kids. The men are always the main event of these knockouts but this is the first Knockout tournament held in NSW with the women as the main event.

Blacktown Red Belly Warriors want to showcase the growth of women in league and create pathways for our up and coming girls.”

The teams that have already confirmed for the tournament include sides from Dubbo, Newcastle, North Coast, Kempsey, South Coast, Redfern and Western Sydney, across Women, U17 Boys, U16 Girls and U15 Boys.

Included on the day will be cultural workshops, kids entertainment, community market stalls and a positive step towards reconciliation and to create culturally sensitive pathways for our children Shaylee Bent, who is an Ambassador for ‘Tackling Violence’ and a NSW State of Origin player will lead the Blacktown Red Belly Women’s team and help showcase Women In League, hopefully building pathways for our young girls into rugby league.

People wishing to obtain more information about the tournament or enter a team should contact Rondelle Ryan or Kerrie Smith at blacktownredbellywarriors@gmail. com Councillor Greg Davies encouraged Penrith Council to support the tournament by becoming a gold sponsor.

“This a great opportunity to support women’s and indigenous sport in the area and will be a chance to boost the local economy and show off Penrith to all the participants and visitors coming from rural and regional NSW,” Clr Davies said.

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

44

SPORT

Panthers Group support talented local athletes

T

Western Sydney Academy of Sport CEO Martin Bullock commented “Panthers have been tremendous supporters of our region’s talented young athletes for many years and this is a further example of their commitment.”

General Manager of Panthers Penrith Leagues Club Jason Stone met the Academy’s Lone Star athletes and said “Panthers Group are thrilled to support the development of these young, local athletes through the Lone Star Program and encourage them to strive for even greater levels in their chosen sports”.

he Western Sydney Academy of Sport is excited to announce that the Panthers Group has come on board as a Program partner for our 2020/21 Lone Star Program.

The Academy’s Lone Star program provides benefits for athletes involved in sports not catered for in our primary programs. With the support of Panthers Group the program will provide educational and personal development opportunities for young talented athletes within the western Sydney region, with the ultimate goal of preparing them for progression to higher levels of their sport.

Business case for revitalising Penrith Stadium

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

he NSW Government will allocate funding towards the development of business cases for the renewal and revitalisation of Brookvale Oval and Penrith Stadium as multi-use community assets.

Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said the vision for upgrading these community assets is to ensure they are utilised by all sport codes, grassroots and professional, as well as entertainment, concerts, cultural events and local markets.

“We know there is interest in communities to overhaul community grounds so we are firstly doing the planning work to make sure the costs stack-up,” Mr Lee said.

“We are serious about continuing our investment into community infrastructure and the business cases for these suburban grounds will give us the best insights on the community benefits for revitalisation.”

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said an outer Western Sydney Stadium has always been part of the NSW Government stadia strategy and that it was good to see Penrith being identified as the preferred location.

“Given Penrith is centrally located in the Western Parkland City, has good current and future transport connections and is on the door step of the new Airport precinct it makes good sense to get started on Penrith,” Mr Ayres said.

“This business case will help shape the future investment into stadium infrastructure that will be critical for a growing Western Sydney.

“You really only get one shot in a generation to get stadium infrastructure right so it’s good to do your

homework first.

“A new stadium will help drive growth in Penrith’s expanding visitor economy and that can only be a good thing. It ultimately means more jobs, more events, more investment and a better experience for fans.”

The NSW Government also announced funding in the recent budget to develop a business case to revamp Jubilee Oval at Kogarah.

“When we build and renew community infrastructure we get the benefits for the people of

NSW. Revamping infrastructure like local grounds in Sydney’s South, North and West is a catalyst for jobs and economic growth, as well as providing communities with uplift in amenity and liveability,” Mr Lee said.

“Just look at how Bankwest Stadium has become a fan favourite, no matter what sport you follow.

“It’s important to get the basics right with these business cases so we can make informed decisions regarding any future investment into suburban grounds.”

SPORT

By Chris Kennedy, NRL.com Reporter

D

aly Cherry-Evans was a surprising omission from the Gallagher Kangaroos Merit Team announced on Monday but he will have at least one chance to force his way into the World Cup squad before the tournament in October.

In announcing the Merit Team on Monday, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo indicated the national team would play at least one Test between the end of next season and the start of the 2021 World Cup on October 23.

Unveiling the side at Rugby League Central, national selector Laurie Daley said the 17 players picked are those that he and fellow national selector Darren Lockyer would have been chosen if there was a Test this post-season.

Cleary, the star of Penrith’s run to the grand final, was chosen ahead of Cherry-Evans, who endured a frustrating season at Manly, at times appearing to try too hard as an injury-hit team failed to gather any momentum.

However, the 15-Test veteran had a towering Origin campaign, captaining the unfancied Maroons to a stunning series win and comfortably outplaying the young Panther, who backed up a quiet grand final performance with an up-and-down Origin campaign.

“If we were picking an Australian team, that’s the side we would have gone with,” Daley said.

“We just went in with that plan of making sure we recognised the players who played well.

“We wanted to reward those players and we decided we would just pick it as if we were going to select a team to play in three weeks’ time.

“The guys selected in this team delivered in their performances not only in Origin but throughout the season. It’s a very good team, a very strong team and Australia would be very happy if this team was able

to go ahead next year in the World Cup.” While Origin was a factor in the selections, season-long NRL form was a greater indicator and a key reason why grand final halfback Cleary unseated Cherry-Evans and why Clive Churchill medallist Ryan Papenhuyzen nabbed a bench spot after missing out on his Origin call-up due to a calf problem.

“There’s always plenty of debate around who misses out on selection,” Daley said.

“Again, we wanted to reward players who we thought we’d select that played good football over a consistent period of time. I think Nathan Cleary deserves his spot.

“He was the Brad Fittler Medal winner as well for NSW. His performances throughout the year, we just thought he was the option we wanted to use and obviously Daly had a magnificent series for Queensland but we just felt Nathan deserved a chance.”

Papenhuyzen was one of six potential debutants named, along with fellow Storm grand final winners Tino Fa’asuamelaui and Christian Welch, Cleary and Angus Crichton.

“All those guys played particularly good football,” Daley said.

“It’s always very rewarding when you get selected to represent Australia. It’s the highest honour our game has to offer. Sometimes that goes unrecognised because of the impact state of origin has had here. “[Papenhuyzen] matured as the season went on.

His performances in big games stood out. He was the Clive Churchill Medal winner.

“He would have been selected if injury didn’t affect his chances there in the Origin. He was in that squad, highly thought of and you’re looking for that versatility on the interchange bench and he certainly provides that.”

Crichton was honoured to be considered in the team.

“It’s a massive honour and a privilege; it’s very exciting,” he said.

“There’s a lot of work to be done between now and when the team actually plays but to be considered in a team like this is an honour.”

Abdo, who also unveiled global insurance broker Gallagher as the naming partner of the Kangaroos, said it was important to name a side despite not having any matches to play.

“We didn’t want to lose that opportunity and that tradition of celebrating the best of the best of Australian players,” Abdo said.

“Regardless of whether we’ll be playing a Test or not, these are the players that have been rightly recognised by the selectors as being the top 17 Kangaroos in Australia in 2020.”

Abdo was confident the World Cup in the UK would go ahead despite the current elevated COVID-19 infection rate but said contingencies would be considered. If all goes to plan, the Kangaroos will play at least one game in Australia before travelling to the tournament.

“We are planning for at least one Test match prior to the World Cup but who we play and where we play we’re still working on,” Abdo said.

As for the World Cup, the NRL is in regular contact with the RLWC organising committee.

“The tournament is scheduled to go ahead, tickets are on sale, they exceeded expectations around their ticket sales at this point but of course we continue to monitor the situation in the UK in terms of infection rates,” he said.

“The UK government is scheduled to make an announcement in January around the financial support for the tournament. That will be a key milestone in confirming whether it goes ahead.

“At this stage we’re still very positive and it’s all systems go for the World Cup.”

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

Cleary named in Kangaroos Merit Team

45

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

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SPORT

Twelve weeks of training done, unwanted kilos shed!

By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

HEN I first asked my mate MG to help me shed some COVID kilos and get me into shape, I’m not sure I actually believed it would really happen.

I love sleeping in and in all honesty I can be a really unmotivated person sometimes.

On top of that I love my wine and cheese platters too much, in fact we were scoffing down wine whilst talking about it back in September.

But, holy guacamole on a cracker, here I am twelve weeks later and I have lost the ten kilos and hit the goals I set for myself!! I’m also way fitter.

In fact I think I’m fitter than I was ten or even twenty years ago.

I rise at 5.15am four days a week to get to MG Activ. And guess what?

I look forward to it!

I’m far more disciplined than ever and I owe a million thank yous to MG and Logan. I’m also so grateful to have had my good buddy (and now also gym partner) Rachel by my side for the journey. She goes hard and she is looking amazing.

I’ve also received lots of encouragement from fellow gym buddies Gina, Jimmy Hill, Toby, Chez and Loz. You guys rock.

I’ll never be able to thank Mark Geyer enough - he’s changed my life and my outlook on everything.

I have far more positive energy than I’ve ever had.

I told him going in the door back in September that I was ‘not a gym type’ and that I’d be done and dusted by Christmas.

Not a chance! I’m part of the family now. I’m not going anywhere.

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

And that’s a wrap!

A

 Me and Logan with the Activ crew!

s I sit here writing my last column for 2020 for the Nepean News it’s actually quite eerie thinking about the events that have taken place these past 12 months.

Imagine the odds given to anyone trying to predict it all?!! A million to 1!!

But I’m not here to dwell on the crappy year it was, instead I’m going to finish off the year with a positive.

Last Saturday night we had our “MG Activ” Christmas party, at the gym. It was a magical night.

When my son Logan and I opened the doors to our family gym back in February we couldn’t have imagined in our wildest dreams the culture that would spawn from like-minded people wanting to better themselves physically and mentally.

We were open for a lousy 7 weeks before the pandemic hit. Oh no! How could we maintain the momentum that had amazingly built in such a short time? We lent all of our equipment out to our members and continued to provide ‘online programs’ for those wanting to continue their individual memberships. God love them.

So for 9 weeks we provided those who wanted them with daily workouts.

Then finally on June 13 we were back! And what a feeling it was. Our members have become like family, and although we are called a gym we are more like

 The Geyer girls having a ball

a club.

Back to last Saturday night’s Christmas Party.

As the gang were arriving and the Christmas carols were pumping, it was time for our awards.

First person to sign up - Big Daz (DC) Member’s Member award - Megs Transformation awards - Peita, Nads, Marky, and Jace.

And the inaugural MG Activ award (kind of like our own Dally M award) went to Nads.

The support of the Penrith and surrounding areas has been amazing. There are a lot of gyms in Penrith each doing an amazing job transforming their members on a daily basis, we at MG Activ are just glad to be able to do the same.

As the festive season hits us, embrace it like never before. Have a ball with your family and friends. Celebrate getting through a wretched year by being around those you love and care for most.

Have a fantastic Christmas Day, a magnificent New Year, and I’ll see you back here in 2021.

Stay Random xx

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 17 December 2020 Issue 293

on the

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