The annual easter egg hunt and family fun day presented by St Marys Town Centre will be back at Coachman’s Park for 2023. The local community are invited to enjoy a day of free magical fun and entertainment including an easter bunny dance party, face painting, magic shows plus special guests elsa & Olaf.
There will also be a bunny food making activity the kids will love and a performance by Minchinbury dance academy, BAM Performing Arts.
Children are invited to wear their best easter hat to participate in the easter hat parade and dress up to join the popular easter egg hunt - visiting Queen
Street St Marys Town Centre retailers to collect easter treats! With great prizes to be won, it is sure to be a day the whole family will enjoy.
When: Saturday 1 April 2023
Time: 10am to 2pm Location: Coachmans Park, St Marys
To register and receive an easter hunt bag and instructions plus view the full program of events, visit eventbrite via the QR code.
“There are so many amazing women across our community that work incredibly hard and are an inspiration to so many,” said Londonderry MP, Prue Car.
“Libby Clark is just one of these amazing and inspirational women in our community, congratulations on taking out this year’s Londonderry Local Woman of the Year Award.”
Congratulations to Farah Madon, named Local Mulgoa Woman of the Year.
“It was an honour to present her with the award at the NSW Women of the Year ceremony,” said Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies.
“Farah’s work as an architect designing accessible homes for people with disabilities is inspiring and making a positive impact in our community.
“Well done Farah!”
Penrith Woman of the year - Joy Impiombato
“Joy continues to make a tremendous contribution across Penrith with her unwavering passion to make our community a better place,” Penrith MP Stuart Ayres said.
“It is my privilege to present her with this award and to acknowledge her tireless work and commitment to improving the lives of many, particularly kids across our community.
“Joy has been working in the community service sector in Western Sydney and Penrith for 25 years.
“During this time she has worked across disability, youth work, child protection, and
managing Aboriginal services.
“She is most proud of her achievements in early intervention in Aboriginal services including innovative pathways for children to not fall behind such as the establishment of Koolyangarra Aboriginal Family Centre and the Braddock Early Learning centre.
“As well as contributing to the work the Closing the Gap ITC team achieve to close the life expectancy gap for Indigenous Australians.
“It’s the connections made with community members who are courageous to share their stories and invite change in their life that inspires her. Running events like NAIDOC Cup that help give kids strength in their cultural identity and
3/149 Great Western Highway, Kingswood
Available services:
• Routine family practice, including
• Work cover, care-plans & immunizations
• Pathology
• All mental health issues -
Depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, relationship issues, marriage break up, under performing students (11 & 12 and post graduate and UNI) and CEOs
• Addiction control (smoking, alcoholism, marijuana, and substance abuse)
• Habit control - bedwetting, stuttering, obsessive, compulsive disorders
• Performance enhancement in sports arts and studies
• Counselling for various issues
• Health check
• And state of the art hypnosis for many psychosomatic conditions
• Easy appointments available “walk-ins” also accepted
3/149 Great Western Highway, Kingswood NSW 2747
Ph. 4736 6900
By KeRRI e DAVI e S
In just over a week it will be time for the vote count to begin; and decide who who will represent us locally and who will run the nSW government. Candidate signs are in front yards, candidates are out and about in force at train stations and shopping centres, and election promises from the two major parties are flowing out thick and fast.
The local representatives we’ve had for the past four years; Stuart Ayres, Tanya Davies and Prue Car are all throwing their hats into the ring again and hoping you’ll agree they deserve to stay.
In my view they’ve all done an exceptional job over the past four years. They’ve steered us through what has been the most challenging time in living memory for most of us.
Stuart, Tanya and Prue - thank you for all the hard work you have put in over the last challenging term.
We also have some great candidates who are vying for the three local positions.
It is now over to the voters to decide whether they’d like things to continue as we were or go for change.
At least we get that choice.
When you line up at the local school to cast your ballot, spare a thought for those in countries who don’t enjoy the rights we do.
We may not all agree on who is the best party or candidate for the job, but living in a free democratic country ensures we always have the right to express what our opinion is, and vote accordingly.
And if the result comes in differently to the way you voted, I can guarantee the sky won’t fall in.
I’ll have more to say in next week’s digital edition of nepean news, but by the time our next printed edition comes out we’ll likely know if we are governed by state Labor or we’re sticking with the Liberal one.
Further to that, whoever is in power might make some changes that you don’t agree with - but again, the beauty of having democratic rights means you’ll get to have a say again in four year’s time. We live in the greatest nation in the world, in the greatest state in the country.
Make your vote count!
Cambridge Park is set to become greener thanks to Penrith City Council securing $614,000 in funding to plant more than 1,800 trees across the suburb as part of the NSW government’s greening Our City grant program.
The trees will be planted along residential pathways and in recreational parks, including the Harold Corr Oval, across Cambridge Park. all trees used in the program have been specially grown in Council’s nursery, ensuring that they are well adapted to Penrith’s unique climate.
Penrith mayor Tricia Hitchen said the project is part of Council’s Cooling the City Strategy which identifies ways to cool the region to improve
liveability and prioritise protection from heat for the community.
“We thank the NSW government for this fantastic funding boost which will allow more trees to be planted across Cambridge Park, helping to increase canopy cover and address the impacts of urban heat,” said Cr Hitchen.
“Trees make a significant difference to our lives: they mean a cooler suburb, improved air quality, better public spaces and more habitat for our birds and wildlife,” she said.
“This is one of the many tree planting projects currently being undertaken by Penrith City Council across our region, and we’re proud to say that
we’re committed to supporting our Council and community’s vision to grow a greener city.”
The project will include community consultation activities with residents and businesses commencing from april this year, with the tree planting due to start in autumn 2024.
For more information on Council’s tree planting projects, visit: www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ waste-environment/resilient-penrith/treeplanting
This project is part of the Greening our City grant program that is proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Local Government NSW.
You are invited to our Club’s 30th Birthday. Please join us in celebrating our club’s achievements over the past 30 years and our dreams for the next 30…
Tuesday 4Th april 2023, 7pm
WHERE: Panthers Club upstairs in the meeting rooms, signs will advise on which room
THe Zonta Club of Nepean Valley held their annual international Women’s day dinner on the 7th march at the Penrith Panthers Club.
international Women day is celebrated each year on the 8th march recognizing women for their achievements regardless of national, ethnic, linguistic, economic or political divisions. The Zonta international community also celebrates Zonta rose day on the 8th march. it is a time to reflect and give tribute to the women who have empowered us. This year’s
iWd theme is #embrace equity. according to internationalwomensday. com, truly embracing equity “means to deeply believe, value and seek out difference as a necessary and positive element of life. To embrace equity means to understand the journey required to achieve women’s equality.”
We enjoyed the inspiring presentation from guest speaker kerrie davies, editor of this publication. as well as the members of our Zonta Club, we welcomed eleven visitors including mayor Tricia Hitchen, Lisa Finn Powell representing Penrith Performing and Visual arts, malama Psarianos and Stuart ayers mP.
ATTIRE: In keeping with the theme of 30th anniversary, please wear green/jade and/or gold for the Zonta Rose.
If you have pearls or diamonds, wear a piece.
Cost: $32 for the meal- entrée, main and birthday cake.
If so inclined, please bring some extra money for the raffle and trading table.
RSVP: rachelswong@hotmail.com by 26th October
Bank details for prepaying: Zonta Club of Nepean Valley BSB 062 589 | Account 2805 1874
Chris Barton is planning to walk non-stop from Echo Point ( Katoomba) to Manly Beach on saturday 25th March, a walk of approximately 130km and around 180,000 steps
Chris aims to complete the walk in under 24 hours to raise awareness and funds for youth Mental health.
he said “This is not an organised charity event but something i will personally be doing, as i am really trying to get some funds and awareness going for youth mental health.
Chris’ 13-year old daughter Cheslea has struggled over the last couple of years with severe mental health challenges and anxieties, which have impacted her life in many ways, including being unable to attend mainstream schooling.
“This has impacted our family life and really highlighted to me the impact mental health challenges can have on teenagers, and their families, and the importance of quality programs to assist.
“i would like to play a small part to help raise awareness around this real issue, after seeing the struggles my daughter
goes through, and pushing myself to the limit in this way is the very least i can do to help raise awareness.
“Through my walk, i am also raising funds for ##Batyr, which does wonderful work in youth mental health in Australia. All money raised from my walk will go directly to Batyr to assist fund the awesome high school programs www.batyr.com.au/
The link to my fundraising page is https://batyrsfundraising-hub.raisely.com/chrisbarton and i’m hoping to attract the support from a high profile sportsperson, who may want to walk some of the way with me, as it can only bolster the effort to help raise awareness.
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Blacktown City FC and Executive Chairman Bob Turner have already committed to donate to the fund-raising.
## Batyr was launched in 2011, after founder Sebastian Robertson experienced the frustration and isolation of living silently with mental ill-health whilst at university. Sebastian recognised that it was time to have open honest conversations about mental health with young people, and founded the organisation, naming it after batyr (‘hero’), the Talking Elephant from Kazakhstan.
OyS and girls aged 7 – 13 years are invited to join Penrith City Children’s Choir’s next project, starting on April 2.
Directed by Lucy McAlary, the choir’s second project for the year focuses on two native American Chants. Add your voice to the haunting beauty of ‘Ancient Mother’ and the pounding rhythm of ‘The Earth is Our Mother’. The Children’s Choir will be working towards a public performance at Penrith City Choir’s May concert ‘All American’. The adult chorus will sing modern sacred music, folksongs and spirituals and a medley of Frank sinatra hits. Adults and children will combine for an exciting finale.
There are no auditions. Just bring your love of singing!
For an information Pack & Application Form contact: PCCC Administrator, Rebecca Padgett 0417 433 903; Director, Lucy McAlary 0432 625 986; or email pccc@penrithcitychoir.com.au
For full details of our 2023 program go to www.penrithcitychoir. com.au/penrith-city-childrens-choir
PEnriTh City Council is a proud supporter of Earth hour and is encouraging the community to join us as we take part in the global movement on saturday, 25 March 2023 between 8.30pm and 9.30pm.
Each year, Council celebrates Earth hour by turning off non-essential lighting at its facilities across the City for the full hour between 8.30pm to 9.30pm.
Penrith Mayor Tricia hitchen said that Council will lead by example and encourages residents to join the movement and switch off for Earth hour in a show of support for creating a better future for our people and our planet.
“Earth hour is a powerful way for Penrith residents to show their commitment to shaping our future. if we all turn out the lights for just one hour during the Earth hour initiative, we can all make a difference,” Cr hitchen said.
“i encourage residents to consider how they can make simple changes that will lead to a better future for our City and the generations to come –whether that’s deciding to swap your electricity for solar power, simply choosing to ride a bike to work instead of driving, or planting a native tree in your yard,” she said.
“Council is a leader in sustainability and is committed to playing our part by growing our environmental initiatives, reducing our emissions and encouraging our community to do the same.”
in addition to switching off for Earth hour each year, Council has delivered many other sustainable initiatives, including:
• Council’s Electric Vehicle (EV), a Renault Kangoo, turns four this year and has travelled 60,166km and been recharged using 100% Greenpower with a cost of only $1,260 (as of 1 Feb 2023). The EV does not create any greenhouse gas emissions when driven and is powered only by renewable energy.
• the installation of rooftop solar systems at Council facilities to generate renewable energy. in 2021-22 Council generated 1,507GJ of electricity from the solar systems at 43 sites across the LGA.
• extra LED lighting at Council facilities to reduce energy consumption and re-direct costs to other important resources.
• our partnership with Endeavour Energy to upgrade all remaining non-LED streetlights (approximately 9,808 lights) to an energy efficiency LED fitting, saving 3,424,623 kWh per annum and equating to a reduction of 2,774 tco2e.
• Council’s 10-year renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement, seeing our large sites, small smart-metered sites and street lighting now powered with renewable energy generated by a NSW solar farm.
• Our ongoing commitment to plant more trees across our City, restore and protect bushland areas, and create a green corridor network to mitigate climate impacts such as urban heat.
remember to switch off for Earth hour on Saturday 25 March from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. To find out more visit earthhour.org.au
Learn more about Council’s sustainable initiatives and goals at penrith.city/sustainability
Saturday, March 25 is the NSW State Election. If you haven’t already pre-poll voted or voted by mail, you can vote locally on the Saturday and probably enjoy a sausage sizzle while you’re at it.
If you live in the Penrith LGa you will be in one of three electorates; Penrith, Londonderry or Badgerys Creek.
the electorate of Badgerys Creek was formerly known as Mulgoa.
To find out which electorate you are in, visit https:// elections.nsw.gov.au/
New South Wales is divided into 93 state electoral districts. Voters in each district will elect one person to represent their district in the Legislative assembly. Voters will also elect 21 of the 42 members of the Legislative Council.
the current state members are Stuart ayres; Penrith, tanya davies; Mulgoa (now Badgerys Creek) and Prue Car; Londonderry
the candidates for each electorate are:
Penrith:
Vanessa Blazi – animal Justice Party
timothy Pateman – Legalise Cannabis Party
Minoo toussi – Greens
Stuart ayres – Liberal
Geoff Brown – Sustainable australia Party
Karen McKeown – Labor
Belinda McWilliams – One Nation
Londonderry:
Prue Car – Labor
Samantha talakola – Liberal
david Maurice – Greens
Luke tester – One Nation
david Bowen – Sustainable australia Party
Badgerys Creek:
tanya davies – Liberal
Benjamin Green – One Nation
Nick Best – Greens
Garion thain – Labor
Peter Cooper – Sustainable australia Party
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
I feel there is a mood in the community for a fresh approach to tackling the rising cost-of-living and fixing our education and health systems. After 12 years in office, local residents see a NSW Liberal Government which is no longer focussed on them. Labor’s Fresh Start Plan will get NSW back on track by tackling the cost-of-living, and improving health and education.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
The policy that has resonated most with residents in Western Sydney is Labor’s plan for a $60 weekly cap on tolls. Particularly for tradies and people who use their car, ute or van every day for work, Labor’s toll cap will provide much-needed cost-of-living relief. And it will be workers in Western Sydney who will benefit the most.
What is the one thing that worries you most should the other side win the election?
I’m particularly concerned about the sale of Sydney Water if the Liberals are re-elected for a second decade in office. Locals will remember the Liberals promised no more privatisation before the last election, but once they got voted in they broke that promise and sold off Westconnex. Only Labor will end Liberal privatisation of our essential assets.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
The feeling on the ground has been very encouraging. I have had people coming up to me thanking me for giving them an option other than the major parties. I have engaged with people directly and have had open discussions on various policies of One Nation. People who have never voted or considered voting for One Nation have had a change of heart once I have explained the common sense approach of One Nation. It is hard to argue against policies that make sense. I have enjoyed educating and changing the minds of those open to logical solutions.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
NSW School Education. Many parents have spoken to me about their concerns about their children being subjected to teachings about gender theory and identity politics in the classroom. One Nation is the only party openly calling out this and fighting for a back-to-basics curriculum and fighting for parents to consent to withdraw children from gender and sexuality propaganda in the classroom. People have said we have won their vote based on that policy alone.
What is the one thing that worries you most should the other side win the election?
At this stage, with a comparison between Liberal and Labor, there is not much difference between them like in times past. They both are left-leaning parties with similar policies and have similar approaches to failing our state with a relentless net zero energy policy, which will continue hurting the people’s pockets. I hope that whoever wins can focus on helping NSW with the high costs of living rather than feeding the woke brigade for another 4 years of madness. The balance of power is crucial in this election, and the people will suffer if they don’t vote for common-sense solutions.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
This has truly been the most incredible experience and I am so humbled by the time I have spent in the community door knocking, visiting train stations and speaking to small businesses. It has been a real thrill to talk to locals about building new high schools in Jordan Springs and Marsden Park, upgrading and widening roads like The Northern Road, Richmond Road and The Driftway. There is also a lot of excitement about the investment in building a brand new 10 Court MultiSports Arena in our local area.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
There has been a huge level of support for the NSW Liberal’s Kids Future Fund, it will set up every child for their future so they can invest in education or housing when they reach 18.
What is the one thing that worries you most should another party win the election?
There are long term economic challenges ahead with interest rates rising and pressure on family budgets. The Perrottet Liberal Team have the financial plan to keep NSW moving forward. We don’t want Londonderry to stall under Labor.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
I think the campaign has been conducted in good spirit and I have been heartened by the strong support from people across the Penrith community. People have raised with me the impact of the nine interest rate rises and prices going up (inflation) since Labor was elected federally. People are telling me this is a reminder about how important it is to have good economic managers in government.
There’s lots of positivity towards all the things that the Liberal Government has delivered for Penrith like the hospital, school and station upgrades, improved roads, parks and sports facilities and they want to see a long-term plan to keep it going.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
Two things have stood out…Kids Future Fund being a great way to save and give our kids a financial head start to adult life and building a stadium rather than apartments on the Paceway site.
What is the one thing that worries you most should another party win the election?
One Nation voters accidentally helping to elect a Greens-Labor coalition. People thinking about voting One Nation should put a 2 next to their local Liberal candidate or they risk accidently electing a left-wing Labor government controlled by a Greens minority. That’s a nightmare for our economy.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
This election is going to be close.
I have been out every day knocking on doors, meeting with locals and hearing directly from them about the concerns they have and the challenges they face.
They are concerned about cancelled and merged classes in our local schools, waiting times and staff shortages at Nepean Hospital and cost of living made worse by tolls and electricity prices.
After 12 years in office, Dominic Perrottet, Stuart Ayres and the NSW Liberals are tired and too focused on themselves and selling of our assets.
It’s time for a fresh start for Penrith.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
People across our community are struggling with the rising cost of living - made worse by Dominic Perrottet and the Liberals selling off our electricity network and motorways to private companies that are now making super profits.
They went to the last election promising to not sell off
anymore of our assets and then broke their promise by selling the remaining half of WestConnex.
Labor’s Fresh Start Plan will introduce a $60 a week toll cap, and establish a publicly owned clean energy company - putting an end to the privatisation of our energy assets, keeping the lights on, and putting downward pressure on power prices.
What is the one thing that worries you most should the other side win the election?
Since coming to office 12 years ago, Dominic Perrottet and the Liberals have sold $93 billion of our public assetsincluding our energy network and motorways – to private companies.
This has caused higher prices for everyday essentials like electricity and road tolls.
If the Liberals win this election, they will see it as a green light to sell even more - including Sydney Water.
Before the last election Mr Perrottet promised he had “no plans” to sell more public assets, but then he sold our motorways, saying “plans change.”
We need a fresh start. Vote Labor to stop the sale of Sydney Water and protect our public assets.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
Voters are telling me that they are sick of politicians and broken promises. They want politicians to protect our environment, stop overdevelopment and stop corruption – and that’s exactly what I will do if elected. I’m running for the seat of Penrith to de-corrupt politics in NSW and implement sustainable solutions for our future.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
Sustainable Australia Party’s policy to place a moratorium on housing sprawl and ensure that we both protect our bushland and farmland from overdevelopment.
What is the one thing that worries you most should another party win the election?
The thing that worries me is that vested interests will continue to dictate planning and development policies to the Liberal and Labor parties instead of putting the needs of the community and the environment first.
In less than 100 words how would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
I am very encouraged by the community’s positive response to the infrastructure transformation and extensive family cost of living support our Government has delivered over the past 12 years. Families in western Sydney are aspirational and want this to continue for their children and children’s children. They remember our State was failing for 16 years under the last NSW Labor Government. That’s why I take nothing for granted and I am working hard each day to ensure financial and economic growth and support can continue for families under a re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government.
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
While thousands of families access the 70+ cost of living support programs, voters, especially mums, have embraced the Kids Future Fund announcement. Starting next year, for every NSW child aged 10 and under, and continuing for every child born in our state, we will create a Kids Future Fund account, starting with a $400 contribution from the Government. The fund, which allows contributions from parents and grandparents can only be accessed at 18 for education or housing costs. Families receiving the Family Tax Benefit will receive an annual government contribution to their child’s fund regardless of any co-contribution from the family. This will give a new generation of children a financial head-start and help them secure their future.
What is the one thing that worries you most should another party win the election?
I am deeply concerned that if Labor win government they will take our State and quality of life back to the bottom of the pile. They have already announced they will cancel two metro train lines to the new airport, they will eliminate the choice our Government provided for first home buyers when it comes to stamp duty, they will cut our $250 energy rebate and cancel the life-changing Kids Future Fund policy stealing thousands of dollars from our children’s future. Families and NSW cannot afford Labor. Only a re-elected Liberal and Nationals Government can be relied upon to deliver our economic plan to keep NSW moving forward.
Families in Penrith are set to benefit from a new covered outdoor learning areas (COlas) at four schools under a re-elected NsW liberal and Nationals Government.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said this investment will deliver major improvements to local schools and support students and teachers.
“Because of the NsW liberal and Nationals Government’s long-term economic plan, we are investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years,” mr Perrottet said.
“We’re committed to delivering infrastructure upgrades to schools across NsW to ensure young people get the best possible start in life, and under a re-elected liberal and Nationals Government, the Penrith community will benefit from these upgrades.”
member for Penrith stuart ayres said the new COlas will be a wonderful addition to the schools in the area, and will deliver modern resources to students now and into the future.
“We have fantastic local schools and these new COLAs will allow students to enjoy the benefits of outdoor learning as well as provide a sun-safe play area during school breaks,” mr ayres said.
“Because of the liberal and Nationals long-term economic plan we can commit to these projects and help meet the needs of this community.”
The four schools set to receive new COlas includes Cambridge Park Public school, Jamison High school, Penrith south Public school and Henry Fulton Public school.
minister for education and early learning sarah
mitchell said she was pleased to be able to make a commitment to students and families in the Penrith area.
“The liberal and Nationals in government have a proven track record of delivering schools for growing communities,” ms mitchell said.
“Families know under labor they risk going backwards, given labor’s track record of closing 90
schools when they were last in government. it’s only the liberal and Nationals Government that will keep NsW and our young people moving forward.”
The NsW liberal and Nationals Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NsW. This builds on the more than $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure.
This latest commitment is another example of the NsW liberal and Nationals Government’s nationleading work to give our kids the best start in life:
• A $15.9 billion Early Years Commitment, including delivering universal pre-Kindergarten for every child in the year before school and rolling out a full suite of health and development checks to NsW preschools.
• By building modern schools that prepare students for success investing $8.6 billion for hundreds of new and upgraded schools over the next four years;
• A once-in-a-generation back-to-basics school curriculum that puts literacy and numeracy first for all students.
• A $250 million tutoring program to support up to 120,000 students in 2023, bringing the total to $890 million invested in tutoring since 2021.
• Making sure we have the best teachers in our classrooms by supporting our students with a guaranteed 6% pay rise for teachers over the next two years, and a $100 million commitment to pay excellent teachers salaries of up to $152,000.
How would you sum up the feeling on the ground throughout your campaign?
When you put your hand up to represent a whole community, you’re never sure how it’s going to go. That said, the feeling on the ground these last few months has been really positive. Getting the chance to listen to what people need has been a privilege that I won’t take for granted. When I get a chance to chat to residents, many seem to agree that I’m doing it for the right reasons or give their well wishes. But for this last stretch I’m just focusing on the voters and not getting too caught up in the ‘feeling.’
What is the one policy idea/ announcement that voters you have spoken to have resonated the most with?
We’ve announced several policies intended to benefit Badgerys Creek voters directly, and I think the overarching theme of their appeal is that our policies acknowledge the fact that we are one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and that unless we have a government that invests in our local infrastructure and services, our electorate will buckle. So if I had to name one that people are resonating with the most, it would be the announcement of a new hospital for Badgerys Creek. It’s one of our best examples of that idea, and will take pressure off of Nepean.
What worries you most should another party win the election?
Aside from my big concern that our communities will struggle to cope if another party doesn’t invest properly in Badgerys Creek, what alarms me the most is the possibility of Sydney Water being sold-off. Some people very close to me work there and they’re worried about what it could mean for their futures, not to mention our water bills. I’ve had several concerned residents approach me on the stump to ask if I support privatising it, I have signed a pledge to never support the selling of Sydney Water.
A NSW Labor Government would seek to finalise the Luddenham Village Plan in conjunction with relevant councils and stakeholders as quickly as possible, to provide certainty to businesses and residents.
Labor Candidate for Badgerys Creek, Garion Thain made the announcement after consulting with concerned residents, the Shadow Minister for Planning and other stakeholders.
The Luddenham Village Interim Strategy has sat in limbo for some time with residents stating to Mr Thain that they have been kept in the dark by the NSW Liberal government and the Minister for Planning.
Mr Thain said finalising the plan is seen as an
important next step in allowing residents and businesses to prepare for their future in a rapidly growing electorate.
“While the rest of the Aerotropolis plan is forging ahead, Luddenham residents have been forced to wait without news for agonisingly long – leaving them uncertain of their future,” Mr Thain said.
“They’ve told me that without the plan being finalised they won’t know what the future of their homes or of their town looks like.
“A NSW Labor government would work with relevant stakeholders to finalise the plan as quickly as possible so Luddenham can move forward with the rest of our area’s future – I’ve listened to them and I think that’s only fair.”
A Minns Labor Government will invest $22 million to turbocharge the early childhood workforce with new scholarships, professional development and research into improving early childhood learning outcomes, it has been announced.
Loondonderry MP Prue Car, who is also NSW Deputy Labor Leader and Shadow Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning said Labor’s plan will help address workforce shortages and help prepare the early childhood sector for universal preschool - two key Labor priorities to improve declining outcomes.
“Labor has already committed to build 100 public preschools in our first term of government to help achieve universal preschool education access. Today’s announcement will ensure that NSW has a world-class workforce for those new preschools and other childcare settings,” Ms Car said.
“NSW Labor will prioritise upskilling our early childhood workforce, maintaining and expanding existing services, and encouraging workers to pursue a long-term career in early education.”
The funding will go towards:
• Investing $9 million in scholarships - up to $25,000 scholarships for early childhood workers to upskill to both bachelor degrees and diplomas. Under the program, students will be able to stay in the workforce while they learn, and receive financial support to assist with course fees, study materials and other expenses.
• Launching a $10 million Professional Development Fund - offering paid professional development leave to early childhood workforce, regardless of qualification. This will tackle increasing burnout and staff retention challenges. The Fund will complement national efforts to address this issue, as outlined in the Federal Government’s Shaping our Future strategy.
• Funding Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Research - with $3 million for a new study into childhood delivery models, to improve the availability and efficacy of early childhood education. The research will include a focus on a strong workforce pipeline, to deliver early learning now and into the future for NSW.
“This announcement builds on Labor’s commitments to boost early childhood education in NSW,” Ms Car said.
“This includes creating 100 new public preschools co-located with government primary schools and 50 new and upgraded preschools colocated at non-government schools, within the first term of a Minns Labor government.
“With Labor, every new public primary school will be built with a co-located preschool. And Labor will also build preschools at existing underutilised schools.”
Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader said the best investment we can make in our children’s future is to invest in their education.
“Nothing is more important than education and when you consider that there are 3000 teacher vacancies and declining education standards we have to fix it - and Labor has the plan to do it,” he said.
“The choice is clear: under the Liberals you’ll get declining services and falling education outcomes. Labor will give every child in NSW the best opportunities to succeed from their early years right through to
Ms Car said NSW will have a pipeline of world-class staff in the early childcare workforce, with support for early childhood workers to build long-term careers in the sector.
“Families are concerned about the impact of staff shortages in preschools, childcare centres and schools right across the state. NSW needs a Labor Government which will turn this around now,” Ms Car said.
“After 12 years of Liberal neglect, only Labor has the plan to fix staff shortages and turn around our declining education outcomes in NSW.”
Grandparents will have the opportunity to help secure the future of their grandkids as part of a re-elected Liberal and nationals plan to futureproof the finances of a whole generation through Kids Future Fund accounts.
premier dominic perrottet said this would give grandparents the opportunity to give their grandkids a headstart in life.
“We know that grandparents want the best for their grandchildren, which is why we’re giving them the opportunity to help set their grandkids up financially for the future,” Mr Perrottet said.
“through the Kids Future Fund, grandparents will be able to partner with parents to make contributions to their children’s future and help change the lives of the next generation of kids across nsW.
“For some kids in nsW, there could be up to six adults contributing to their fund, making small investments over time to grow their wealth and help secure their financial future.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW paul toole said even a small contribution could help grandparents build a sizeable nest egg for their grandkids over time.
“nothing brings greater joy to a grandparent than seeing their grandkids grow up and knowing they’ve got what they need. any money they chip in to their grandkids’ Future Fund will grow right along with them, setting them up for the future,” Mr Toole said.
“plenty of us remember getting cash inside a birthday card from gran or pop. Getting a nest egg that could help set you up to buy your first home or train for your first job is a gift with lasting impact.”
Treasurer Matt Kean said enabling grandparents to contribute to the Kids Future Fund would help bolster their grandchild’s wealth and help them on the path to financial security.
“a small cash birthday or Christmas present placed in the fund would deliver big dividends down the track,” Mr Kean said.
“This initiative will help build financial security for a whole new generation.”
as part of the Kids Future Fund, parents and grandparents together will be able to contribute up to $1,000 annually to each fund.
the Kids Future Fund:
• Each account will receive an initial $400 contribution provided by the Government when it is created.
• Each year, the child’s parents (or grandparents) will be able to contribute up to $1,000 per year to the account. the Government will match these
contributions up to $400 per year until the child turns 18.
• If parents (or grandparents) make a contribution of $400 each year, alongside the Government’s co-contribution, the fund is expected to be around $28,500 by the time the child turns 18.
• If parents (or grandparents) contribute the maximum amount of $1,000 per year, the fund is expected to be around $49,000.
• For families receiving Commonwealth Family Tax Benefit A, the Government will automatically contribute $200 a year to the child’s account without requiring a matched contribution from parents (or grandparents).
• If the parents (or grandparents) also contribute $200 each year, the Government will match this with an additional $200.
• Contributions can be made to the fund after the child turns 18, however the Government will not provide any further matched contributions.
• When the child turns 18 they will be able to draw down on the fund for only two purposes:
- Housing – e.g. a contribution towards purchasing a residential property
- education – e.g. textbooks and other learning materials, laptops, private tuition fees, microcredentials, tools required for getting a qualification
• The fund will be open for children aged up to 10 years old (in the 2023 calendar year). From 2024, new accounts will only be created for newborns.
• There are around 974,000 babies and children aged up to 10 years old in NSW in 2023.
• There are around 100,000 babies born in NSW each year.
Activity PA rtici PA nts
Coffee n Chat Veterans
Descri P tion/t iming
Mon – Fri early mornings – simply just a chat on the Train veranda (Veterans Support Centre)
Social Guild Veterans & partner Occasional social outings local or coach overnight
Hospital Visitations Veterans & partner Teams of 2 visit veterans in local hospitals
Guitars for Vets Veterans
Monthly BBQ B’fast Veterans & family
Exercise classes White or gold card holders
Walk n Talk Veterans & family
Small bus day-trips Veterans
Computer Classes Veterans and partner
Wednesday mornings @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train); learn to play or join a jam session
8.00am Last Thursday of each month @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train)
Tue and Fri @ 8.00am @ Ripples, St Marys; occasional walks from/to the Train in lieu; must meet criteria
Monthly walk on local footpaths from/to the Veterans Support Centre (the Train)
Occasional, weekday or weekend; greater Sydney area; lodge interest at Veteran Support Centre
Tuesday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners
Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club
Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner
Packing Care Boxes Veterans
Barefoot Bowls Veterans and partner
Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area
6-monthly day trip to Randwick to pack care boxes
1st Friday of the month - mornings @ St Marys Diggers Club
DAte Activity
Wednesday 1st, 15th, 22nd & 29th March Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets
EVERY THURSDAY Coffee n Chat
Friday 3rd March Exercise Class - Coffee n chat - Barefoot Bowls
EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat
EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n chat - Computer Intro Class
Wednesday 8th March Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets - Care Box Packaging
Friday 10th, 24th & 31st March Exercise Class - Coffee n chat
Saturday 11th March Walk n Talk
Thursday 30th March BBQ B’fast
co-conducted by St Marys RSL sub-Branch and St Marys Veterans Support Centre
a WeLLBeInG PrOGraM designed for all Veterans and their family
Yes, here at st Marys!
Are you a veteran? Are you interested in meeting other Veterans of a like mind in activities of interest to you? Minimal cost involved - maximum gain for you.
The program contains a broad range of ativities from coffee chats, to local walks, to computer classes, to guitar lessons, to barefoot bowls, to exercise classes, etc etc - check the Wellbeing webpage for St Marys RSL sub-Branch to scan the full list of activities on offer, who they are for... or phone/email the contacts below and lodge your interest.
Some activities on offer are for your partner also; some for the whole family; age ? (younger or older) - all welcome. You don’t NEED to be a member of RSL ... but it helps ... that way you can keep up with what’s happening.
Come, try it and see! Want more DETAIL?
ALSO, for VETERANS wishing to lodge a claim with DVA ... our ADVOCACY Service has a very high level of successful outcomes
Our new Wellbeing Program for Veterans and their families in St Marys kicked-off on Friday (3rd March) with a good roll-up of bare feet - for Bowls. A dozen adventurers (most with little to no understanding of the game) happily shed their shoes and socks (not TOO smelly!!) for an hour to test out the superbly mown ‘lawn’ of the Green. Our Tutors from St Marys Diggers and Band Club Bowlers, Oscar and Michael, were very patient, even when the ‘IN’ ring was on the outside a few times.
A couple of ‘observers’ (contemplating whether they might try it themselves next month) watched humorously while the four ‘teams’ persisted in maintaining a good distance from the kitty! However, there were a few occasions where the bowl kissed the kitty … more by accident. Tony Briffa proved to be the day’s champion with some consistently excellent results.
After socks and shoes were retrieved, we all headed in to Hall St Café for a well-earned cuppa,
compliments of the rSL sub-Branch. Thank you Michael and Oscar for your tutelage.
The scheduled timing on the Program for Barefoot Bowls is the ‘first Friday of each month’, however for April, that will be Good Friday so our next rollup will be Friday 5th May at 10.00am for 10.30 start. All Veterans and partners are very welcome to join in a bit of fun, all for only $5 cash on the day …. you just need to let Leanne know (9833 4700) by 3rd May (why not ring NOW – if it’s out-ofhours, leave your name and phone number), so that our Tutors will know what equipment they need.
By Noel Rowsell
ANeW podcast, “roadshow and Tell” which showcases unique and specialty museums, has released an episode featuring our local institution, the Penrith Museum of Printing.
The episode features an interview with museum president Bob Lockley, as well as a tour of the museum at the Penrith Paceway complex, along with demonstrations of its fully operational machinery.
Bob speaks with Kate, the host, on the relevance of printing and typography today, as well as the history of the printing press and the diverse printing techniques used to create publications such as the Sydney Morning Herald over time.
The episode was released on 6th March 2023. The ‘roadshow and Tell’ podcast, recently launched, also features a teapot museum (Bygone Beauties Treasured Teapots) in Leura.
‘roadshow and Tell’ is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. New episodes are released fortnightly, with complementary photos from the museums and trivia on the Instagram feed: @roadshowandtell.
IT would be fair to say Craig Shanahan (the Blind Chef Cafe & Dessert Bar) has been given far more than his fair share of adversity in his 32 years.
Craig was diagnosed with cancer at the age of two, having his left eye removed in the operation to remove the cancer and save his life.
The chemotherapy and radiation therapy he received from the ages of 2 - 5 hindered his physical development and affected his heart, which led to complications and corrective surgery later in life, including foot reconstruction to both feet.
As a 23-year old, Craig was beginning to put a career together as a successful chef, before being diagnosed with a brain tumour and consequently losing the sight in his right eye.
In 2022, Craig was struggling to overcome the challenges of Covid on his new business when his heart finally began to succumb to the ravages of his past health issues and in early 2023, he received a heart transplant.
Craig is now back at work, with a new team (which includes his mother Sue, sister Amanda, 3rd-year apprentice chef Antoine and casual chefs as well as front of house staff Ayla, Georgie, Keisha and Livie) looking to once again build the Blind Chef Cafe & Dessert Bar into a must-visit destination in Penrith.
Born in Nepean Hospital in 1991, Craig lived in St
Clair, attending Blackwell PS and Erskine Park HS.
He was a successful baseball player, comfortable as Pitcher, Catcher or Third Base and playing 1st Grade with the Colyton Chiefs. “I batted right handed so my left eye injury was always facing the Pitcher,” said Craig. “I’ve no doubt it put quite a few of them off their game on the day.”
Craig studied for and achieved his Certificate ll and Certificate lll in Commercial Cookery at Ryde TAFE and would later achieve a Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Hospitality Management.
When he was 23, and living in Queensland, his family and friends noticed a change in behaviour, which he initially put down to being tired and stressed from working 40-50 hour weeks. His health ultimately led to a consultation and he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, which was described as being ‘the size of a mango’.
He was put on a course of steroids, which resulted in his weight ballooning from 85-108kg. He suffered a bladder infection, followed by a fall and was in hospital for the next four months.
Unable to fly, Craig eventually was driven back to Sydney and he would remain bed-ridden for 12 months, struggling to come to grips with his blindness.
Vision Australia came to the rescue, instructing Craig in the use of a cane and also setting up both his phone and computer to talk to him.
Growing in confidence, Craig started going to the
Craig kneeling with Rockogym and also undertook computer classes, determined to conquer the challenges of his disability.
On the business front, Craig served an apprenticeship at Mauriziou’s in Wetherill Park, then went to work at Arthur’s Restaurant in Kellyville, also working at that time in a cafe in North Sydney in the mornings.
Craig’s burning desire was to own his own cafe, where he would be able to employ people of all disabilities.
Craig invested the bulk of his savings into renovations at the Blind Chef in 2019, only to have the Broker later deliver the chilling news the bank was no longer going to offer him a loan.
After months of stress and worry, the local NAB branch advised Craig they would approve his loan, flying the General Manager up from Melbourne to inspect the Cafe and approve the deal.
At the 11th hour, Australia was hit by the Covid epidemic and Craig’s loan was again blown away by circumstance. His friends however rallied to his cause, starting a GoFundMe page to keep him afloat.
In September 2020, NAB came through with a loan for 50% of the required funds and once again, it was Craig’s friends and others who rose to the occasion.
“The amount of people who helped with the fit-out of the Cafe was amazing, including tradespeople who put up their hands to work,” said Craig.
In April 2021, the Blind Chef Cafe & Dessert Bar opened for business at the top end of High Street, Penrith and Craig was determined to work through the many and varied challenges he was still facing, one of which was his latest fight for survival.
In 2022, following the completion of the 7km Sun Run, Craig was listless and lacking energy.
He was subsequently diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, with his heart recording 200 beats / minute on an ECG test.
He received shock treatment to bring the heart back into normal rhythm and it would be a further 6 weeks before he saw his specialist.
His weight had ballooned to 115kg and was told his heart was now operating at approximately 16% capacity.
He was admitted to St Vincent’s Hospital for 2 weeks, then would spend the next 7 months in and out of hospital and added to the transplant list.
A heart became available on 2nd December but fate hadn’t finished playing tricks, as Craig was ill at that time with Covid.
Another donor heart became available on 10th January, 2023 and Craig received a heart transplant later that night.
He spent additional time in hospital due to a chest infection but fate was still mocking him, with his chef having recently left the business and the two new
appointees both declining to start work, virtually at the 11th hour.
The family stepped in and Sue and Amanda are now both working in the Cafe, with Sue progressing from ‘Till Lady’ to now knowing every job on the premises.
Antoine is now the chef, along with Emily the Pastry Cook, who was also away with Covid at the time of our interview.
“Everything is in the business,” said Craig. “We do struggle with location but we receive wonderful support from the people in Penrith. We do meals for Rotary, Guide Dogs Australia, we’ve had the Luke Priddis Foundation Dinner, the members of the Chamber of Commerce are very supportive, I’m also a member of the Business Network Institute (BNI) and we are catering at the upcoming Disability Exhibition at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, Cambridge Park. We are catering for venues as far away as St Leonards.”
Craig Shanahan was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.
If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
Baby Craig Sue, Craig, Amanda Camp Quality Craig cookingThEy say that a good pedicure will result in your feet looking and feeling so good that you want to show off your toes to the world. But what about our pets? Are your dog’s nails constantly tapping across your porcelain tiles or wooden floor boards and in need of a pedicure?
Clipping your dog’s nails may seem stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With a better understanding of how often you should trim your dog’s nails, as well as the right tools and treats on hand, you can make it a positive experience for both you and your dog.
Why is nail clipping so important? - Trimming your dog’s
nails is important for their health and well-being. If their nails get too long, they can lead to lameness, ingrown toe nails, and even damaged joints. Left untrimmed, your dog’s nails grow into a curved shape. Eventually, they may penetrate the skin, making it uncomfortable and even painful for them to walk. Long nails also put your dog at risk of injury if they get caught in the fabric of furniture or carpets.
How often should you clip your dog’s nails? - This will depend on how quickly their nails grow. The nails should be clipped as often as they need to be to prevent them from touching the ground when they stand. This can mean clipping them as often as every 4-6 weeks.
How do I clip my pet’s nails?Gently hold the toe between your fingers and work slowly and carefully. Clip the tip of the nail only and don’t forget the dewclaws, located on the inner side of the paw. Avoid clipping past the curve of the nail or you will risk hitting the quick of the nail that contains the blood vessels. A nick
there is painful and will bleed. For dogs with dark nails, watch for a chalky white ring and do not clip beyond this point.
Start your dog early - The younger that you start clipping your dog’s nails, the better. As a puppy, your dog will be more open to new experiences, and you have an opportunity to build positive associations that will carry them through to adulthood. Touch your puppy’s paws often and reward them with a treat afterward, even if you’re not clipping their nails. This helps get your dog comfortable with having their paws touched which will not only make clipping their nails easier, but it can make future vet appointments less stressful as well.
Make nail clipping fun - For most dogs, nail clipping is a stressful experience – or at least something they would rather avoid. Reward your dog frequently for calm behaviour, and give them plenty of praise and treats. The more positive you can make the experience, the easier it will be next
Is it me, or are a lot of people on social media overwhelmingly stupid?
Even the aliens on other planets are saying, “hell no. We are not going there; they are a messedup bunch down there.”
I often ask new clients if they wear their underpants on the outside of their jeans. Of course I get some questioning looks, and then I say, ‘well why place all your sordid details on social media?”
I am no rocket scientist or brain surgeon thingy ma jiggo, but I do know that the baddies look at social media posts.
yep you read it right, the BAD peoples!
This post for example: ”Oh God I get sick of being put on close at the pub and closing every night at 11pm.” Then add a check in, location services, pictures, map, “I am always the last one here…sigh.”
All I can say is that comments like this are at upper cut level– with a Bruce Lee famous roundhouse kick. People might as well have a flashing neon light,
time. Try using ‘dog-safe’ peanut butter on a lick mat as a stress relief treat and distraction.
Seek professional help - If trimming your dog’s nails is too stressful for both you and your dog, seek help from your veterinary team or a professional groomer. If the experience is all too stressful, your vet can discuss sedation and/or a brief twilight anaesthetic to avoid heightened anxiety.
Be consistent – If you find clipping your pets’ nails stressful, it is tempting to put this task off. Remember, the experience gets easier the more that you do it. Dogs love routine, and clipping their nails regularly helps them get used to the process. It also keeps their nails at a manageable level, making it easier to clip them next time.
If you would like more information about clipping your pets’ nails, phone the team at Orchard hills Vet on 4736 2027.
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security
“hey, rob my house because I am out for the day!” or “hey, hold up my pub at 10:50pm because I am the only one here …sigh!”
Even posting your holiday pics highlights the fact that you’re not home.
Photos and pictures, for goodness sake think about what you’re posting and who can potentially see it.
“Look at my sweet baby girl only 5 in her new bathing suit, we are staying at bonehead point, in dropkick apartments right on the beach.” As vomit provoking as it may sound, there are really sick people on social media, so you can’t be too careful. And bath photos … don’t get me started on them.
“We are off on holidays for a week, great to get the whole family out of the house.” (smiling Emoji) with duck face kissing selfies. All I can say is that unless your Persian cat staying at home has been martial arts trained and is a black belt in kicking the crap out of anyone entering, then this is a stupid post … just say’n.
I love the medical posts, dear numbskull group, my baby has a giant red mark on his head, can anyone diagnose that for me, I am so worried #feelingdepressedandanixious.
Thankfully, Bill sitting down at the pub on his 13th beer, has just read the post and he will tell you it is a possible bee sting and to rub metho on it – as his dad did in 1974.
From a security perspective, I often urge people to have a think first before posting stuff on social media. The potential for exposure is huge if it is a public post, and people need to be mindful that they are sharing personal information and private photos with a lot more people than Aunty Ethel and Uncle Bob.
Be choosy with what you share online! you’ll protect the safety of your family and home from the baddies, and there will be a lot less groans coming from the goodies who have to read it all. Juz say’n.
Nepean
Solar turns 8
NepeaN Solar Solutions, a leading provider of solar and battery storage systems, is proud to announce its eighth anniversary in the industry. Since its inception in March 2015, the family and locally owned company has been dedicated to providing innovative and sustainable energy solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial clients in and around Western Sydney.
Over the past eight years, Nepean Solar Solutions has experienced tremendous growth and success, expanding its services and reach to become one of the most trusted names in the area. In 2023, they are celebrating a number of milestones, including:
• The completed installation of over 15,000 solar panels, generating more than 6MW of clean energy.
• The completed installation of over 170 battery storage systems, providing customers with reliable backup power and increased energy independence.
• The expansion of operations to complete multiple installations per day.
• The development of partnerships with leading manufacturers and suppliers to provide top-quality
equipment and products to customers.
• Participation in numerous conferences, seminars, and events to educate and promote the benefits of renewable energy solutions. according to owner Jim Hill, the success of the company is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the team, as well as the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. He said, “We are thrilled to reach this milestone and we are grateful for the trust and support of our customers and partners. We remain committed to our mission of providing reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy solutions to our clients, and we look forward to many more years of growth and success.”
as part of the anniversary celebration, Nepean Solar Solutions is offering a special promotion on their services. Customers can take advantage of an eight percent discount on solar and battery solutions from now until the end of March, to enjoy the benefits of clean energy and energy independence at an affordable cost.
team of experts can be contacted at the details below: DON’T LET YOUR SOLAR POWER GO TO WASTE FOR A LIMITED TIME ADD A NEW BATTERY TO ANY NEW OR EXISTING SOLAR SYSTEM Alpha Ess Smile B3 5kwH
$6,450 Contact us TODAY 4760 0809 info@nepeansolar.com.au Licence No. 286440C | CEC Accreditation No. A7901859 nepeansolar.com.au
Clearly a local from his Panthers jersey, Kenneth is a diecast model car fan, which means you’ll be able to find a range of model cars in store as well as Rolling Stone magazines, records and jerseys.
If you’re in the area, visit Kenneth at 150B Queen Street St Marys.
Enjoy short films by local filmmakers and hear from film industry experts at the StarBurst Film Festival and Filmmaking Symposium on Saturday 1 April.
From 9am, join a panel discussion with experts in the film industry who will share tips and insights on how to access film funding and broadcasting agreements. Then from 1pm, enjoy a range of short films made by local creatives that were submitted as part of the StarBurst Film Festival.
It was a 60’s night at The Royce Penrith when residents and visitors danced as hippies in a groovy night of Peace and Love.
One Stop Cake Decorations has some Easter School Holiday Classes coming soon. Call for more details!
4722 9580 shop@onestopcake.com. au
Local residents young and old were in force on Clean up Australia Day recently where 7 bags of rubbish was collected from Queen Street St Marys.
Items collected were: light fittings, cigarette butts, a 2 wheel female bike, cardboard, lolly and chip wrappers, bottles, building materials, plastic straws, broken glass, cigarette lighters and coffee cups. All volunteers enjoyed being active in the local community removing rubbish and the tangible outcome which has made them feel good about the action they have taken.
Want to be part of the Festival? There is still time to submit your short film, go to www.starburstfilmfestival. com to find out more!
• StarBurst Film Festival and Filmmaking Symposium
• Saturday 1 April from 9am
• Tickets: $15
• Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, Penrith
As you would know, our local area will be seeing a lot of changes over the next few years.
We’ve been working closely with our local business owners and getting out into the community to promote what St Marys as to offer. But the most important thing we’re doing is listening to YOU.
We want to hear your thoughts and ideas on what you want to see in St Marys over the next 5 years so together, we can see it vibrant and thriving!
So, let us know in the comments below or send our page a message. We’re excited to hear from our St Marys locals and to build a brighter future for our community.
We invite you to come in and see our tasty range of Authentic Italian Smallgoods.
Using only 100% Australian Pork and
are certain there is more than one of our range that
satisfy your tastes.
The Australian Street Rod Federation Nationals is a biannual event bringing together hot Rod and Custom car enthusiasts from all over the country for a long weekend of fun and games. The Nationals or the “Nats” as they are fondly known will be held over easter 2023 at hawkesbury Showground.
The 2023 Nationals is the 25th running of this event that first commenced in 1973 at Narrandera NSW. The last time it was held in the hawkesbury was 2001 with a massive turnout of entrants and locals alike enjoying what was a fantastic event.
The 25th Nationals was supposed to be held in 2021 in Albury NSW but along with many other events, we had to cancel due to Covid. So, this event is the culmination of over 4 years of planning and work, and it’s going to
be hUGe. We are very fortunate that our many sponsors have come along for the ride and stayed with us through it all and finally we get to showcase them all in the Traders Pavilion over the duration of the 25th Nationals.
There will be over 800 hot Rod and Custom cars on display throughout the weekend, along with A tribute to 100 Years of T Buckets. We have two international guests with Matt Murray from iron Trap Garage, Pennsylvania USA (check out his YouTube channel its definitely worth the look) and Greg Stokes from GMS hot Rods in New Zealand. They will both be hosting a “meet and greet” on Saturday and Sunday so don’t hesitate to come and say hello.
There will also be amusement rides for the kids (or the big kids), market
stalls, our sponsors trade stands, a major raffle will be drawn Sunday afternoon, buy a ticket for just $5 and you could win a composite hot Rod Body courtesy of C & W Components valued at $18K to start your own hot Rod Project!!
Food Trucks including Black Bear BBQ, Mate Burger and Kd’s Coffee are just the tip of the culinary iceberg. We have bands on the big stage with the Stray dogs and hellcat iii playing just to name a few, backed up superbly by dJ Antony the music will be epic.
The Sydney Swing Katz will be performing on our 100 square metre dance floor on Sunday as a prelude to our Best dressed Parade being coordinated by viva La vintage Photography, Australian Pin Up Pageant and Lana Rose Fashion. everybody is welcome to enter the
Best dressed Parade with some great prizes on offer.
There really is something for everyone and is the best value family day out over easter!!
There is plenty of FRee parking via gate 4 of the showground, or if you prefer to use public transport Clarendon Station is the closest to the venue and there will be a FRee shuttle bus running right to the entrance for your convenience.
on Saturday and Sunday we invite the public to our Family Fun day and the gates are open from 10am to 4pm. Tickets for the public event are available at: www.123tix.com.au/ events/35869/25th-australian-streetrod-nationals and are $25 for adults and kids UNdeR 15 ARe FRee
We look forward to seeing you all “At the Nat’s” .
GinA FieLd is a shining example of a woman determined to break down gender barriers and not only succeed but to become one of the best in a male-dominated industry. Starting her own security company 25 years ago as a home-based business with only one employee, nepean regional Security is now one of the most recognised and awarded security companies in the State.
winning over 30 industry awards including an international business award and the nSw Business woman of the Year, Gina has featured on TV business programs, radio, newspapers, magazines and is a regular column writer for nepean news, aptly named G Spot (soon to be rebranded to Left of Field).
now employing over 30 FTe personnel, nepean regional Security has been successful in Local, State and Federal Government Tenders and being selected to be on the whole of Government preferred suppliers panel.
As well as running her 24/7 365 days a year
business, Gina has an interest in watching other small business grow. She supports shopping and employing locally, whilst encouraging women to make the career change to the Security industry. in her spare time she does public speaking and mentoring at business events and local schools. She has been an inspiration in business and was called
a “ Tycoon” in business by the Sunday Telegraph.
“Starting was purely to keep myself employed,” Gina said.
“i could never have imagined that i would still be around 25 years later, running a 24/7 for 365 business.
“The highlights of my business have been being awarded large Local and State Government tenders, expansion, being financially stable and being able to dictate the pathway of nrS as the control freak that i am.
“There have been extremely low and challenging times with the tall poppy syndrome, some high maintenance staff, economic changes, tight margins, and pricing increases; it’s been an evolving learning and growth experience, which has enhanced my life.
“However, I have had to sacrifice a lot as well.”
Gina is an outstanding local leading lady and we are a very lucky region to have her. Penrith has featured on the world stage thanks to the success of nrS and Gina has been awarded nSw Business woman of the Year. what an incredible journey!
Congratulations on your 25 years in business Gina Field and nrS!
Unwind, eat and play as Penrith Producers returns to Triangle Park on Friday, 31 March from 5pm for the first of four events in the series this year. Penrith City Council is putting the spotlight on the talented local makers, artists, and producers in the area by increasing the scope of the event with additional road closures along riley Street and High Street in the Penrith City Centre.
Penrith mayor Tricia Hitchen said she was looking forward to the return of Penrith Producers and is excited to see the event growing its offerings by providing more local makers, producers, and creatives the opportunity to get involved.
“Penrith Producers is a muchloved event, and i am so pleased to see the event build on its successful
history, and to offer new experiences for everyone in the community”, Cr Hitchen said.
“Penrith Producers is all about supporting local business and celebrating the world-class offerings we have locally. it’s a great way we
can get together with friends, family and neighbours to enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks in the beer garden, as well as the chance to browse a wonderful range of market stalls with unique handmade goods and specialty foods.
“it is an encouragement to the community that you don’t have to venture far to have a great night out in Penrith.”
A new addition to Penrith Producers in 2023 is the inclusion of creative workshops and kids’ activities, making it a family-friendly night for everyone to enjoy. The increased space will allow for a wider range of market stalls with a diverse mix of homemade products on offer, from homewares through to specially crafted drinks.
Live music on stage at Triangle Park by talented local musicians will complement the fun and relaxed atmosphere as event goers welcome the weekend in style.
The first Penrith Producers event will be held in Triangle Park, Penrith on Friday 31 march from 5pm-9pm. Find out more at penrith.city/events
Featuring Joey Fimmano, Lisa Crouch and Christian Guerrero at the Joan Sutherland
Performing Arts Centre
on Wednesday 22 March
From power ballads, to show tunes and classic favourites, three multi-talented musicians, perform some of the world’s biggest songs! Joey Fimmano is heading up a stellar cast including big band singer
Lisa Crouch and Latin performer Christian Guerrero.
This trio of talent is backed by the fabulous Greg Hooper Quartet (piano, bass, drums and guitar). morning melodies fans are in for a treat!
Morning Melodies: Headliners is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on 22 march 2023, 11am. Tickets: Pre-booked and paid $22, Purchase on the day $25. Tickets include a pre-concert morning tea at 10am.
www.thejoan.com.au/events/ headliners-2023/
In January 1896 an accident happened to Railway Guard Frederick William Hainsworth. Fred was born in 1849. In the History Page in July, 2022, I wrote about him coming to Australia on the ship ‘Elamang’ arriving at Sydney in March 1877 and employed by the nSW Railway Department as a porter at Bathurst where he married Annie Devany and they moved to Penrith in 1878. Their family cottage was in Belmore Street. Fred was employed as a guard on the railway here. Fred’s accident happened at Bathurst when the train started leaving the station and a door was still open and he went along the side and closed it but was caught and wrenched off the train dropping onto the open bridge and killed. His body was brought back to Penrith by train and he was buried in St Stephen’s Cemetery at Penrith. His son Hugh Frederick born in Bathurst in 1878 followed his father to work on the railway. In november 1903 an accident happened to an Irish man named John Gunn as he was taking a short cut, being in a hurry to meet the train at the Medlow railway station and while crossing the line he was not aware that the train was so close. His death was instantaneous and his body was frightfully cut up from being dragged under the train. Hugh was 25 and at the inquest said he was a fireman on the No 31 down train and employed by the railway department and was arriving in the train at Medlow. When a quarter of a mile away from the platform he was looking in that direction and could see the line was perfectly clear and he heard the driver sound his whistle as usual. He had nothing more to do as the steam was shut off and he was keeping a sharp lookout. He saw no one approaching and knew nothing about anyone being run over until the driver sang out to him “is he out” and the only thing he saw was the hat of John Gunn fly out from the side of the line and he noticed the driver had applied the Westinghouse brake at the same moment he called out to him and they pulled up in about 40 or 50 yards. He then remained in charge of the engine while the driver went back to see who was run over. Fast forward to 1917 and an inquest in the Penrith Court House on the death of Hugh who died from injuries received from falling from a railway engine in October. At the inquest Harry Edwin Field said he was a fireman in the employ of the Railway Department as fireman on No.1 Passenger Mail train that left Penrith about 9 pm and Hugh Hainsworth who was wearing a cap that night was the driver. He said Hugh was speaking to him shortly after passing Emu Plains Station about the dirty state of the coal, and about half a mile to the Glenbrook tunnel he missed him and thought he must be on the footplate looking around the engine but did see him leave the cab. They reached the tunnel and he knew Hugh would not be on the footplate going through there and because Hugh had not reappeared he drove on to Glenbrook and reported the matter to the Night Officer. He knew drivers went out on the footplate to investigate as occasionally the donkey engine might cease working which meant attention was needed. The night was fairly dark and they were travelling about 15 miles an hour, so Hugh could leave the cab easily and he was attending to his own work of keeping a look out as there was plenty to do. He had known Hugh for about two years and he was a man of very temperate habits and we had been friends since and it did not strike him that he could have stopped the train when he
first became anxious about Hugh at the tunnel but being so near to Glenbrook he thought it wise to go straight on there. He qualified as a fireman and could drive the engine. Hugh was in good spirits on the trip and did not appear depressed in any way and he could not suggest any cause for the accident but Hugh might have been leaning over to pull the water range down or looking to see the side of the engine and over-balanced himself; or more probably been leaning outwards from the engine and tender with his back towards the engine. This is a common practice with drivers and there is a regulation that the driver should watch to see if the train is following properly but he was fully occupied on the trip and therefore did not notice Hugh’s disappearance. James Riley said he was a Railway ganger and on the night he was awakened at 9.30 pm and he was informed that Hugh Hainsworth had been lost off a train somewhere between Emu Plains and the tunnel, so he got on his tricycle and searched and he found the body about 11 p.m., more than 3 miles from the tunnel, lying on the downside of the line and 4 ft from the rail. He lifted Hugh onto the tricycle and Hugh said “I am done,” being the only words he spoke. He brought him along on the tricycle half a mile and got a mate to put Hugh on the double tricycle and brought him to Emu Plains where he went to ring up Dr Higgins and Hugh was taken to the Hospital. The next morning, he returned to the scene and found a cap, and looking at the cut on the right side of the cap he thought Hugh must have been looking back to Emu Plains when he was struck, and he must have been struck hard and held on for a while and then fallen off. Where Hugh’s body was found the sleeper at that spot had hair and blood on it showing that he had fallen on it. Wesley Thomas Cavanaugh the Railway Stationmaster at Emu Plains said he was there when Hugh was brought to the Station then unconscious and he saw the examination by Dr Higgins and presumed Hugh was coming around the projection at the time of passing Hall’s Bridge and he would have 9 inches less of space and his theory was that Hugh had been returning from the side of the engine to his cab in a stooping condition when he struck the post that corresponds with the cut on the cap. Dr Higgins said that he went to Emu Railway Station and examined a man in a very critical condition and recommended his immediate removal to the Hospital. On his arrival he discovered a fracture of the skull about 3 inches long and he was suffering from shock at the time and practically pulseless, but two days later his condition did not improve and an operation was undertaken to release the pressure caused by a depressed fracture, but some hours later he died. The cause of death being probably due to a laceration of the brain and haemorrhage and the depression on the skull was more than likely caused by coming in contact with the sleeper where the body was found, and the injury to the skull was across the back of the head and not the side. The Coroner’s finding was Hugh Frederick Hainsworth at the nepean Cottage Hospital, Penrith, died from laceration of the brain and haemorrhage consequent thereon, the result of injuries accidentally received at Emu Plains whilst driving no. 61 down Mail train.
Sources: Nepean Times, Mountaineer Katoomba, Ancestry, NSW Registers of Coroners’ Inquests, Australian Birth Records, Australian Death Index, NSW Deceased Estate Files-Probate, Family Search (Mormon website).
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AmAssive
“We
“After a break from racing over the Christmas period, the interest and support we received for this race day is a clear indication of what we can achieve in 2023.”
The day included music from the James Brothers, as well as the TAB Time Trials activation, where one lucky racegoer won $500 after proving to be the fastest jockey on the day.
On the racetrack, local galloper Phearson capped off a wonderful day by winning the $150,000 Polytrack Provincial/midway Championships Heat, thus qualifying for the $500,000 final to be run at Randwick on saturday 8 April.
Hawkesbury Race Club has a busy period of racing coming up over the next few months, including another saturday racing event on 1 April, before the Clubs biggest race day of the year, the Richmond Club Hawkesbury Gold Cup Race Day, on saturday 22 April.
“We have big plans in store for this year’s Cup Day event, and last Saturdays race day fills us with confidence that the 2023 Hawkesbury Gold Cup will be our biggest and best yet,” said Heddo.
THe Penrith Panthers have fallen in both game’s of a double-header clash with the sydney Comets, on saturday night at the Alexandria Basketball Stadium, in the first round of the 2023 NBL1 east Basketball competition.
The Penrith men were in action at 5:30pm and began the game well, leading 18-17 at the first break, before the Comets settled into their task, racing
away with a 35-17 second quarter to eventually lead 52-35 at half time, then 72-48 at the final break.
The Comets went on to win 90-65, led by ilisia Washington with 19 points, isiah Osta-Pinder 16 and Julian Revel-Reade 13. Pranaya sakya led the Panthers with 17 points, ahead of Noman massimino with 12 points and 15 boards.
The Penrith women followed at 7:30pm and could not hold back a rampant Comets line-up, who led 27-14 and 52-26 at the first two breaks. Penrith
rallied to win the second half 35-34 but the game had already escaped them, as the Comets went on to win 86-61.
vanessa Panoussis led the Comets with 35 points, ahead of Hannah Griffin 16 and Jada Crawshaw 12, whilst Tahlia Tupaea led the Panthers with 22 points, ahead of meg Jefferson with 12 points and 12 boards.
Both Penrith teams are away to illawarra on saturday night.
MeMBer for Mulgoa tanya Davies has announced the completion of the upgrade of the Cook and Banks oval Cricket Nets, which was made possible with funding from the NsW Government, Penrith City Council and Cricket NsW.
“I am thrilled to see the upgrade of the Cook and Banks oval Cricket Nets come to fruition. this project will benefit not only the local cricket community, but also the broader community who use this facility for recreational activities,” Mrs Davies said.
“through the Community Building Partnership grants, the NsW Liberal and Nationals government are investing in infrastructure projects that deliver positive social and recreational outcomes while also promoting community participation and inclusion.”
“It is great to see the NsW Government investing in local sporting infrastructure, which will provide a positive impact for the community for years to come.”
Cricket NsW Ceo Lee Germon said the funding was a collaborative effort.
“this project is another great example of several stakeholders working together in an effort to improve infrastructure that will help inspire more people to play and love cricket,” Germon said.
“We would like to thank the NsW Government and Penrith City Council for their contributions.”
Penrith Mayor tricia Hitchen said it was important to provide local sports clubs and their members with high quality facilities for training and competitions.
“It’s great to see local cricketers using this upgraded facility to practice their skills,” Cr Hitchen said. through the Community Building Partnership, the NsW Government contributed $48,000 to the upgrades, Penrith City Council contributed $27,000 and Cricket NsW through the australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund contributed $13,685.
the upgrade of the Cook and Banks oval Cricket Nets is part of the NsW Government’s ongoing commitment
Grassroots rugby league in Penrith will be strengthened by a $2 million commitment by the NsW Liberal and Nationals Government to construct a new clubhouse at allsopp oval in Cambridge Park, if re-elected.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the investment is only possible because of the Liberal and Nationals longterm economic plan and would be a game changer for community sport in Penrith.
“Penrith is a sporting powerhouse, and this funding commitment will go a long way to boosting grassroots participation and developing local talent,” Mr Perrottet said.
Member for Penrith stuart ayres said the NsW Liberal Government’s funding commitment for allsopp oval would go a long way to improving the venue for local rugby league.
“We know that greater access to more inclusive facilities will help keep young people active and playing sport in Penrith,” Mr ayres said.
“Community sport runs off the hard
work and dedication of our volunteers, so this investment from the NsW Liberal and Nationals Government is an appreciation for all that these local heroes do.
“It’s exciting to think we might have the next Nathan Cleary or simaima taufa coming through our local club.”
Minister for sport alister Henskens said modern and fit-for-purpose facilities are critical for making sure local sport is accessible to people
from all walks of life, including girls and women.
“the NsW Liberal and Nationals Government has invested more than $2 billion in grassroots community sport infrastructure and programs since 2017, and with women’s sport going from strength to strength, this investment has had a particular impact on making facilities more female friendly,” Mr Henskens said.
Cambridge Park Junior rugby
League Club Nicole Brennan said new amenities would help accommodate for the growing number of players the club has but particularly their everincreasing number of female players signing up to play.
“this investment will give our club the facilities we need to improve the experience of players, volunteers and supporters, plus having a fit-forpurpose female-friendly building is a game changer for us,” Ms Brennan said.
LocaL junior golfer Tyler Nesci is now on the next leg of his golf journey, signing with the University of West Georgia (UWG), based in carrollton Georgia, which is approximately an hour drive from atlanta. UWG is a top 100-ranked Division 2 Ncca school.
“I am studying Physical Education as my major degree, and sports management as my minor degree,” said Tyler. “So basically, after I complete my four years here, I will have a degree in Physical Education (PE) and Sports Management.
“I plan on attending UWG for the next 4 years, with aspirations of bringing both a conference and national championship to West Georgia.
“The link for our spring season schedule is:
https://uwgathletics.com/sports/mens-golf/ schedule?path=mgolf
Tyler was initially a member of Leonay Gc, before also joining concord Gc, where he played in the Eric apperly Shield Pennant competition. He was also a member of the Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) foundation and played in multiple JNJG Tour events.
In news received just prior to going to print, Tyler was announced as ‘Gulf South conference freshman Player of the Week’ following a great performance at the bearcat classic.
Tyler began the tournament with a 76 on Monday, then came back with a 72 in the second round. He was phenomenal in the final round, firing a three-under 69 while rolling in six birdies.
overall for the tournament, Tyler rolled in 11 birdies and was five-under on the par fives at Greenwood country club.
THREE local golf clubs have won semi-final matches on Sunday 12th March and will all play in finals on Sunday 26th March, at a course to be advised.
Stonecutters Ridge defeated Ryde-Parramatta 4.5-2.5 in Division 2, led by its impressive array of junior talent. Harrison Wilde, Ryan cadle, Jacob carpenter and Daniel Williams all won their respective matches, whilst Kade Webber halved his match, thereby elevating Stonecutters into the Division 2 final and also winning promotion to Division 1 in 2024.
Dunheved lost 4-3 to cromer in the other Sf, which will see cromer advance to the Division final and also win promotion for next season.
Richmond defeated Royal Sydney 4-3 in Division 3, with Damion Miller, craig Ellings, Ti fox and Jason Moss all winning their respective matches. Richmond will now move on to the Division final against Massey Park on 26 March, and will be promoted to Division 2 in 2024.
Glenmore Heritage Valley defeated Palm beach 5-2 in Division 4, with Will Hoven, andrew Robb, Scott Dowsell and Steve Zingle all winning their respective matches, whilst ben Michelmore and David bishop both halved their matches. Glenmore will now play campbelltown in the Division final and have won promotion to Division 3 in 2024. Wallacia Gc played carnarvon in a Division 4 Relegation match, losing 5.5-1.5. Wallacia will now drop back to Division 5 in 2024.
There was also great news locally in the 2023 Golf NSW Women’s Major Pennant, with two of the region’s top young golfers qualifying to play in the Division 1 final.
concord won 4-1 over The Lakes, with Grace Lee (Glenmore Park) playing #3 for concord and winning 5&3. The australian won 3.5-1.5 over St Michael’s, with 12-year old camilla Kim (Kellyville) playing #5 for The australian and winning 2&1. concord and The australian will meet in the final - details Tba
In Women’s Grade Pennant, Penrith appears to have a stranglehold on the title in Division 4, following a crushing 5-0 defeat of cumberland on March 10. Penrith play bottom-placed Moore Park this friday, then host the final round of the competition on 24 March.
SofTbaLL australia recently completed the last of five Under-14 Development camps, which were held in Queensland, Victoria, South australia, New South Wales and Western australia.
The purpose of these Development camps is the dedicated development of the sport’s aspiring Under-14s, who were nominated by their states, with some of the best coaching and guidance australia has on offer.
Led by National Men’s and Women’s head coach, Laing Harrow, each camp was also fortunate to include coaching from players of both the aussie Spirit and Junior Steelers teams, as well as members of the sport’s national group of coaches, within their respective state.
alongside the performances of eligible players (born 2009 or later) at the Under-16 National championships, the Under-14 Development camps were also a selection event for a touring squad that will compete at the 2023 Easter classic in New Zealand from 7th-10th april.
Local 13-year olds Tyler Ingold (blue
Mts baseball and Softball club) and Tylar bald (Glenmore Phantoms Softball club) from the Penrith city Softball association, have been chosen in the 30-player squad, continuing their ongoing success in the sport.
“Tyler Ingold started playing softball in 2015 when he was 6 years old and plays for the blue Mountains baseball and Softball club, in the Penrith city association,” said Melissa Ingold. “He and Tylar (bald) have represented the Penrith association at every level from U10’s, U12’s, U14’s, U16’s and only just recently been selected in the U18’s team, which is amazing considering they are only 13.”
“both boys were in a Metro NSW squad which played a national tournament at canberra in april 2022 and were picked again in the Metro NSW squad for 2023, which will head to Redcliffe, QLD in July to play at a regional tournament against other states.
“Tyler and Tylar have also been selected as a member of the 2022/2023 Western Sydney academy of Sports Softball Program and will play a tournament in May at canberra, competing against other academies across the state.”
PENRITH Panthers is pleased to announce the re-signing of young forward Liam Henry until the end of the 2026 season.
The 21-year-old prop was already contracted to the club for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, but has signed a two-year extension that will see him remain in Panthers colours until the end of 2026.
A Blayney Bears junior, Henry has played for the Panthers’ Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup teams since joining the club in 2019, and made his NRL debut against the North Queensland Cowboys in Round 25 last year.
“Re-signing with the Panthers means everything to me because I love this club – it feels like home,” Henry said.
“They gave me an opportunity and I want to repay the faith. I’m really excited to remain with the Panthers for the next four years.”
Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron was pleased with the re-signing of Henry.
“We are thrilled to see Liam commit to the club and we look forward to seeing him progress his rugby league career in Panthers colours,” Cameron said.
“Not only is Liam a talented rugby league player, but he is also a respectful and hardworking young man, who represents the club with pride.”
Panthers Recruitment Manager Jim Jones congratulated Henry on his contract extension.
“Liam is a dedicated player, who has earned the respect of all at Panthers,” Jones said.
“He has a great future with the club, and we look forward to his career progression.”
Muddy Flats Polo Club in Richmond
was the host venue for Goulburn Polo Club to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the first Polo match played in Australia on Saturday 4th January, albeit 3 years overdue thanks to floods and Covid.
The match also celebrated the life of four brothers, who would take Australian Polo to England and the uSA, achieving great success and renown.
In 1930, Goulburn Squares and Goulburn Stripes played against each other, at a time when Australia had a population of just 7 million people and a cricketer don Bradman was only at the beginning of his legendary career.
Jim Ashton, Bob Ashton, Geoff Ashton and Phil Ashton were the sons of James and Helen Ashton, living on a property called Markdale, near Crookwell.
The boys developed a passion for Polo and played for Goulburn.
On the Friday before match weekends, they would walk their horses the 80km from their property Markdale to Goulburn, each driving up to 15 horses apiece, then return home on Monday following the completion of the tournament.
Jim was the undisputed boss of the group, described by his son Wal as ‘very strict and hard working’.
Bob was a ‘horse whisperer’ and could tame any horse he was placed on. He did however suffer from a legendary shocking temper, said son Tim.
Geoff was very relaxed, a good athlete and certainly the most gifted rider, said son Geoff. But he did not always have the best horses as his best mounts were often comandeered by Jim and distributed among others.
Phil was a nice man, physically
tough but quite reserved in temperament, said daughter Cathy.
As a group, the boys were extremely close and formed a formidable combination at Polo.
In 1929, an invitation was made at the behest of uS President Roosevelt, thanks to a meeting with father James Ashton, to take an Australian Polo team to Long Island, USA. The boys planned to go on the trip and subsequently sell their horses to recoup the cost of the trip and of course make a profit. The Australian Polo Association were dubious and the boys put up the challenge - if they defeated Harden, who had beaten them on 19 previous occasions, in the Final of the dudley Cup, they would form the nucleus of the Australian team.
The boys won the Cup on this occasion and were never beaten by Harden again.
The organising committee subsequently chose a team of 6 players but left 2 of the brothers (Jim and Phil) out of the team, resulting in the subsequent withdrawal of Jim and Bob and the cancellation of the trip.
The Ashton brothers subsequently self-funded their own trip to England, where they would play in the London season in 1930 and defeat the strongest team in England at that time, the Hurricanes.
The trip to England was, of course, by ship and was planned methodically. A training box was erected on the main deck, so the horses could be
exercised regularly and not lose too much condition.
The worst moment on the trip was just after they exited the Suez Canal and entered the Mediterranean Sea. Freak waves almost took one of the horses and then Phil was also lucky not to be washed overboard.
The brothers went on to win the Whitney Cup, the Rainier Cup and the Indian Empire Shield, then were runners-up to the Hurricanes in the Hurlingham Challenge Cup, with their style of play described as ‘a revelation’.
The end of the season should have been a triumph but it was the onset of the Great depression and the Ashton’s were unable to sell their horses, which was going to be a financial disaster and possibly the loss of the family home, Markdale.
An offer to come to the uSA was made and the four boys packed up their kit and horses and travelled to New york, where they would play in a series of events on Long Island.
The Ashton’s won 5 of their 7 games and also dazzled on the social set, rubbing shoulders with celebrities such as Bette davis and Adele Astaire (sister of Fred).
uS philanthropist Larry Sandford set up an auction for the brothers, climbing out of sick bed to be there in support.
An enormous crowd of 800 people attended the auction and ‘they wanted to pay top dollar for the Australian horses.
ultimately, the horses sold for
uS$77,600 (uS$5,000,000) in today’s terms to ensure the Ashton’s could pay off their travel debt and mortgages on their individual properties.
In 1937, the four Ashtons returned to England to play in the Hurlingham Challenge Cup, where they would defeat England’s current #1 ranked team ‘the Jaguars’ 9-7 to win the Cup.
The historic reenactment of the Goulburn Squares vs Goulburn Stripes was played in front of an impressive crowd of 250+ people and was widely acknowledged as one of the best Polo games of the season, with Squares prevailing by a single goal.
On hand at Muddy Flats for the match were several descendants of the Ashton brothers, including Wal Ashton and Toby Goodman, both playing in the Goulburn Stripes team.
Windsor Polo Club’s first tournament of the season was an unforgettable weekend of thrilling polo action, marked by the return of enthusiastic players and over 22 teams competing.
The winning teams were: 4-Goal Pool A: Arunga - Mark Greig, Ben Jones, dylan Jones, Thomas Martin (substitute Fletcher Thew); 4-Goal Pool B: Classic Safari Company- Julie McIntosh, Shannon Booth, Ray Bruce, Aiden Nunn); 0-Goal: TRFd PoloJack Raval, Tim Berry, Pete Handbury, Adam Meally; Subzero: M Polo - Tim Berry, Kim Mcdougall, Adam Sims, Ed Matthies; Groom’s prize - Sarah Nunn (thank you to LJ Thoroughbreds for sponsoring).
Within every successful business and sporting organisation the need to effectively manage the small details often determines the outcomes achieved. Whether positive or negative, wins or losses, the deciding factor will often fall into the category of a small detail. A small detail missed can void the perfect plan. Every detail needs to be as important as the next. it is the accumulation of small details which creates the basis for success. this accumulation allows every member to perform their specific role without distraction or confusion which leads to the bigger elements taking care of themselves.
Early in my coaching career i wanted to know and learn the buzz words, drills and games. to have this knowledge was to feel as though you somehow had the inside word and a gateway to success. But the reality is the buzz words, drills and games constantly change depending on what the successful clubs from the previous season utilised to gain their success. We look at success, copy it and roll forward. the cycle
which develops is the other organisations study and break down these successful elements and do their best to copy them to gain their own success. Whilst in this mindset organisations overlook the small elements whilst also not taking into consideration the consistent evolution of how the game is played. it is consistently changing however the core small elements rarely change. Look at the early success of the Dolphins… a perfect example of how doing the fundamentals well determines results in a positive manner.
What are the small elements? the two biggest areas in my experience along with my constant research into best practice are the following: 1. the ability to effectively execute fundamental skills at a high level consistently whilst under pressure and fatigue. 2. the players clearly understanding what is expected and effectively contributing to the team on a consistent basis. Craig Bellamy is the proven master of these two elements. it would be disrespectful and narrow minded of me to suggest
this the key to his success, because it is only the foundation. From a holistic perspective it is only scratching the surface on what Bellamy demands of the Melbourne Storm players and the staff within the organisation in order to achieve the consistent success they have been able to achieve over the past two decades, even despite the constant drain of their better players to other clubs.
So as junior coaches we need to value the small elements which build and develop successful and competent players. teach them the fundamentals and then allow the game to teach them how to apply them in certain situations. As coaches we talk far too much to junior and development athletes, give them the basis and outline of what you want them to do, and then let them get as many repetitions in open environments actually performing the skill, this is where the learning and the vital lessons take place and as coaches we are to set this environment and use our discretion to guide the players in the right direction.
with MARK GEYER
Back in late 1993, whilst I was playing for the Balmain Tigers, I was approached by a consortium of gentlemen who were to be the main stakeholders in a new rugby league team that would be based in Perth from 1995.
They would be called the Western Reds.
also making their maiden voyage into the aRL that season of 95, would be the New Zealand Warriors, the North Queensland cowboys, as well as the South Queensland crushers.
The summer of 1994 came around quickly and soon I found myself, along with my heavily pregnant wife (8 months) in a hotel in Perth awaiting our rental property in South Perth to be ready for us to move into.
Mind-blowing that here we were about to play rugby league in a predominately aFL dominated city on the other side of australia. I remember the off-season being intense in more than one way.
For starters it was absurdly hot, around 37 degrees on average throughout our inaugural pre season.
and windy, with Perth being the third windiest city in the world only behind christchurch and chicago (didn’t know that till I was over there and noticed that everyone has corrugated iron roofs) and the wind in summer right on cue would rear its ugly head daily around 3pm. It’s called the Freemantle Doctor, and in the three other months is a welcome relief once it comes, but in the sweltering summer is just another obstacle to overcome while doing time trials and defensive drills.
In fact, most of us would need the ‘Doctor” on more than one occasion throughout what was a torrid 3 months of perspiring.
Finally game day was upon us.
Our opening game for this new franchise was to be played against the St George Dragons; a team most thought we would be doing okay if we got within 20 points of them.
That weekend was a magical weekend of rugby league. The four new
consortiums would all play concurrently with our game in Perth, because of the time difference of 3 hours as well as the TV broadcasters schedule, to be played on the Sunday at 1pm Perth time 4pm Sydney time.
and the mercury was forecast to hit 41 degrees around kick-off!
The poor Dragons didn’t know what was about to hit them. a 41 degree dry heat while playing rugby league on a cricket ground being the Waca!
For the record, the Western Reds were the only newcomer team that prevailed on that historic weekend downing the Dragons 28-18.
The Broncos beat the Warriors 25-22, the Raiders too good for the crushers 24-6, and the cowboys went down to the Bulldogs 32-16.
I speak of my time in Perth because watching the NRL’s new franchise, the Dolphins, strutting their stuff in the opening two rounds took me straight to a place. a GREaT PLacE!
Like us in Perth, and the other three entities back then, the Dolphins created history when they toppled the more fancied Roosters in their debut game. and like back in 1995 when there was also a 20 team competition, the latest discussion of a 20 team expansion has me excited.
But unlike back then, there is no underlining simmering of discontent about a breakaway league (Super League) about to engulf us.
a 20 team competition makes sense.
Play each other once for a 20 round competition with an Fa cup style of comp running adjacent to appease the broadcasters. We could then stop the competition mid season to let the origin games unfold week after week for 3 weeks without aNY interruption.
anyway, food for thought. Its just that anytime a new rugby league franchise is spawned in our league it makes me feel giddy.
See you at the game!
