Nepeannews 18july13

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4721 2620 Thursday, 18 July 2013

ISSUE 104

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LOCAL JOBS $60 Mil Investment: At the site of the Erksine Park development, General Manager Operations, Keith Mentiplay, Devondale Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co Limited and Penrith Mayor, Councillor Mark Davies. Read more on page 10.

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3 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

A place to reflect

NSW Governor Marie Bashir at Memory Park last week. Photo Kieren Tilly

NSW GOVERNOR Marie Bashir attended a special ceremony at Memory Park last week to unveil two commemorative plates; one dedicated to those who served in the Korena War and one to signify the re-dedication and re-opening of Memory Park.

Penrith Council and Penrith RSL SubBranch members have put a lot of work into the rededication service and construction of the beautiful memorial that now stands.

Mayor Mark Davies said the ceremony echoed the significance of Memory Park

as a place of commemoration and quiet reflection.

“Memory Park holds both solemn and uplifting memories for the community of Penrith. It’s a place where these memories can be respectfully felt and shared, and where fresh memories are created.

“Thank you to everyone involved in this project, especially Penrith RSL sub-branch.

Penrith City Council is pleased with the outcomes we have achieved together during the upgrade of the park,” he said.

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From the Journo’s Desk

4 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

by Greg Martin

203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Advertising Representative: Journalist: Journalist: Photographer: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

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Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

Check www.nepeannews.com.au for complete list of distribution outlets

IS it once again the Australian media kiss of death?

Ashton Agar’s history-making debut for Australia in the First Ashes Test at Trent Bridge captured the imagination of the cricket world.

The 19-year-old fell just two runs short of a memorable century in his first innings wearing the famous baggy green cap.

In doing so he set his own little bit of history by creating a new record at bat for a number 11 batsman on Test debut.

It truly was a remarkable debut on the world stage but crikey, didn’t the media and a lot of people back here go a bit overboard.

Fair dinkum, even Kevin Rudd wanted to create an Ashton Agar Day! Many cricket commentators - especially a lot of Aussie writers and broadcasters – trumpeted Agar as the saviour of Australian cricket.

Look, it was a wonderful debut by the youngster but.....and everyone should take a Bex and a good lie down .... remember that one swallow doesn’t make a summer.

The kid’s batting was superb and was aided by the Pommy bowlers who thought they just had to go through the motions to get his wicket.

By the time they realised the youngster could wield the willow, he had got “his eye in” and made them pay for their early rashness.

Second time ‘round, the Pommy bowlers treated him with respect and easily kept him quiet before claiming his wicket cheaply.

I sincerely hope the media Kiss of Death hasn’t been applied to Agar.

Obviously he can bat and shows plenty of promise as a spin bowler.

Let the young man develop his game without putting all this undue pressure on him by already likening him to great all-rounders such as Ian Botham, Alan Davidson, Garfield Sobers, Jacques Kallis, Shaun Pollock and Keith Miller.

Just think back to all those young Aussie tennis players over the past few decades, who after winning first round matches at Wimbledon, all and sundry built him or her up as a chance to go all the way.

Before falling in the next round!

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Council’s Animal Services staff with new vehicle that makes their job safer and more efficient, as well as more comfortable for the animals!

PENRITH City Council is one of the best in NSW when it comes to re-homing lost and abandoned dogs. Of all dogs impounded at the Hawkesbury Animal Shelter from our area, approximately 92 per cent are returned to their owners, sold to new owners or rescued by appropriate organisations.

The Rangers and Animal Services staff make every effort to identify the owner of any dog found wandering, and impounding is always the last resort. They return many dogs to their grateful owners without impounding. In

the past six months they have returned 127 dogs to their owners.

Owners can increase their pet’s chances of being returned home safely by making sure they are microchipped and that their contact details are up to date on the Companion Animals Register through any local council in NSW. Remember if you are selling or giving away your dog or cat, it is the current owner’s responsibility to update the register with the new owner’s details.

For more information, contact Animal Services on 4732 7543.

5 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Staying dry and aiming high

By Annette Thain

SPARE a thought for those dedicated NCCC staff, including Senior Occupational Therapist Dawn Hutley, who are abstaining from alcohol over the month of July in order raise funds for patients at Nepean Cancer Care Centre.

“Dry July not only improves patient comfort but also enables staff to do their jobs more effectively through the new and improved equipment we’ve been able to purchase. Best of all, Dry July doesn’t just benefit one tumour group; it benefits everybody where we work and our community” says Dawn Hutley.

If you would like to help staff make improvements in the treatment and care of cancer patients and their families, donations may be made at dryjuly.com/team/nepeancancercarers Last issue, cancer patient Patrice Thomas endorsed the efforts of NCCC staff as “genuine, kind and caring”.

Now Patrice shares her own story and the importance of having a quality cancer treatment centre available at Nepean Hospital. “For the staff to go above and beyond their daily duties

to help their patients shows just how committed and extraordinary they are,” says Patrice.

In 1999, Woodford resident Patrice Thomas’ life was turned upside-down.

The former university academic went from a fulfilling and demanding fulltime career to spending her days juggling hospital visits and doctor’s appointments after a sudden and unexpected breast cancer diagnosis.

Two weeks after her initial diagnosis, Patrice underwent surgery to remove the cancer which was followed by six rounds of radiography every day for a month and five years of medication to prevent the cancer from returning. Despite the initial success of these treatments and four cancer-free years, it struck again in 2009.

“In just two weeks I went from a place where I was in complete control of my life to a place where I felt totally helpless, and I had to go through the same thing all over again 10 years later,” Patrice says. “For me, the psychological element of diagnosis and treatment was the most difficult aspect of it all, particularly when I was diagnosed the second time – I’d beaten cancer once and didn’t know

what my chances would be of beating it again.”

“We should never underestimate the value of staff who have good listening and communication skills and who can help patients feel supported, cared for and understood,” Patrice explained. “And feeling comfortable during treatment, both physically and mentally, is another important factor because it is such a stressful time.”

Four years on, Patrice has recovered well from her major surgery but is still working on complications arising from lymphedema. She is looking forward to coming off her cancer drug (which has its own set of debilitating side effects) and building her health and wellbeing.

This year, the NCCC team is hoping to raise $150,000 to put towards additional patient comfort items with some of the suggestions on the list including renovations of the hallways, LED light ceiling displays for patients undergoing radiotherapy or the addition of a shade awning outside.

NCCC staff, Kate and Dawn, in the garden for cancer patients funded by 2012 Dry July

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Farewell to a mighty fine man

By Kerrie Martin

LAST week I was very saddened to hear of the passing of a local resident, Peter Horsfield. Peter struggled most of his adult life with Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease, and ironically passed away during Diabetes Awareness Week.

We never actually met face to face; but I guess typical of the technological era we live in, we established a friendship via email and facebook.

A regular sender of letters to the Editor, many a great story in Nepean News was inspired by a letter from Peter.

I didn’t have to meet the man to know he had a big heart with a passion for helping others; many of his letters touched our hearts and got us thinking about the plights of people that were right under our nose.

Originally born in England, Peter’s father was in the army, so they moved quite a bit. They came to Australia in 1966, he later married Vickie Horsfield in 1982 and had two daughters, Roslyn and Mary. His grand children Marli, Caleb, Lucianna, Zion and Quade thought the world of their Pop.

Peter’s dog, Poppit, whom he nick-named his soul mate, is also missing him dearly.

Suffering with Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, and a brain injury meant that Peter had it anything but easy, but he was the type that just got on with life and involved himself as much as possible. He was studying a Bachelor Degree at UWS, was a member and board member of the mature-aged Student Council within UWS. Peter also volunteered his time with the National Seniors Association.

“He loved being a part of the community (like your paper), helping others and contributing a lot of his time and effort to associations and groups,” Peter’s daughter Roslyn reflected.

In the true spirit of the wonderful person that was Peter, he was still trying to make life better for others even when faced with the end of his own life.

“Dad requested that there be no flowers at his funeral, rather he would like donations made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research foundation to help “find a cure for this insidious disease” (his words),” Roslyn said.

“Having five grand children, his hope is for this disease to be curable before it affects his grandchildren and others.”

Diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic disease, impacting Australians at all ages and stages of life.

This year the Australian Diabetes Council is releasing a free “Ages and Stages of Diabetes” booklet during Diabetes Awareness Week, which will also be available on its website: www. australiandiabetescouncil.com Nepean News will certainly miss Peter’s contributions.

7 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Just beat it BEAT IT is an innovative, tailored physical activity and lifestyle program advocated by theAustralian Diabetes Council and supported

by Valley Fitness. It is designed to assist those at risk of, or living with, diabetes and other chronic conditions, through education and physical activity – all in a safe and supportive environment.

BEAT IT classes are fun, safe and supportive. Classes start slowly and build up as you become more confident and your health and fitness improve. Classes are run twice weekly, with each class including a combination of aerobic and resistance training exercises. BEAT IT is a group based program, giving you the benefits of exercising with other people just like you allowing you to motivate and support each other along the way.

Each program runs for 12 weeks and we are happy to announce that Valley Fitness will be starting their second program on the 29th of July! There is a cost associated, but if eligible Medicare may subsidise a portion of it. For more information, please call Andrea on 0410 312 424.

Jo needs our help JO Geronimi is a 36 year old local mother of three who was diagnosed with Meningioma five years ago; a brain tumour behind her right eye. Jo underwent major surgery followed by massive radiation, which resulted in her losing the sight in her right eye and hearing loss on her right side. While some of the mass was reduced, the full tumour could not be removed. The tumour is now growing and penetrating the frontal lobe.

The amazing Dr Charlie Teo has agreed to operate and believes he and his team can remove the tumour and give her some quality of life. If you would like to help Jo and her family, The

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Penrith Panthers have provided their Fernhill Room for a Trivia Night to assist Jo Geronimi in her fight against Meningioma.

Tickets for Friday 26 July are $20 which includes a light supper. Activities commence at 6.30pm and include Trivia, silent auctions, raffles, random games and great prizes. Some of the prizes include passes to Luna Park and Captain Cook Cruises plus gift vouchers from Harvey Norman and Big W. For details contact Helen on 0433 789 742.

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NAIDOC Week Celebrations

By Annette Thain

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year’s theme celebrates the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the Yirrkala Bark Petitions to Federal Parliament in August, 1963. The Bark Petitions were in protest to the Commonwealth’s granting of mining rights on land excised from Arnhem Land Reserve. These were the first traditional documents to be recognised by the Australian Parliament and helped shape the nation’s acknowledgment of Aboriginal people and their land rights.

Ability Options Employment Mt Druitt held an open day on July 9 to celebrate NAIDOC Week and to promote their services for Aboriginal people with a disability. Ability Options is the only organisation in western Sydney providing employment services specifically to Aboriginal people with a disability or health condition.

Ability Options’ Acting Chief

Local dancers present Spear of Friendship

Celebrating NAIDOC Week with Ability Options and guests

Executive, Stephen Goode, said, “We strongly believe in investing time and resources to create job pathways for Aboriginal people in a way that is supportive and respectful of their culture. We know first-hand the impact that having a job can have, it allows people to reach their full potential and benefits families and the community at large.”

Uncle Greg Simms is an Aboriginal Elder in western Sydney who belongs to the Gadigal (whale people) of the Darug nation. Uncle Greg, the Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer with Ability Options, says,

“Once people meet us, they realise we’re different from other services because we take the time to listen to their story and goals. We also provide mentoring and support to employers to ensure the placement works for them and their new staff member.”

The celebration began with a heart-warming Welcome to Country from Uncle Greg, “Warami. Mittiga guurum burruk (Hello. Friends, it’s good to see you).” Uncle Greg continued to welcome the gathering to Darug land and encouraged them to learn more about the Darug culture; “There’s nothing better than sharing

stories, anyone can share no matter what culture they come from, we don’t exclude people. We share our stories and values.”

Next, a dance group group called bulaar gulay yuullii gulay (our postcode 2767) performed a Welcome Dance, followed by dances to represent the brown snake, wedgetail eagle and a fruit gathering dance by the female memers of the group. Onlookers were recruited to join the emu dance and learn a few of the dance techniques.

The dancers gifted Ability Options with a traditional spear as a symbol of their partnership and friendship.

Visitors were then invited to join Uncle Gregg and the Ability Options team for rock painting and lunch.

If you are interested in getting a job, or would like FREE recruitment services, call Ability Options Employment Mount Druitt on (02) 9625 3266 or visit www.abilityoptions. org.au

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

$60M facility From cover story A LEADING Australian dairyfoods processor is to build a $60 million state of the art facility, affirming the soon-to-be-completed Erskine Park link road is paying off for the employment zone.

Council successfully lobbied for the link road so businesses in Erskine Park Employment Area would have a direct link to the national road network and the wider Australian Market.

This week Australia’s largest dairy food company, announced it will build a $60 million Sydney milk processing plant on five hectares at in Erskine Business Park.

“Already the Erskine Business Park has a significant transport and logistics sector and is a strategic distribution hub for goods throughout the country,” Penrith Mayor Mark Davies said.

“Devondale’s decision to set up here was based on the quality of land and infrastructure available as well as its ideal access to transport links.”

Cr Davies said Penrith is well placed to be part of the solution to Sydney’s current and future jobs shortage.

“Developing the expanded Western Sydney Employment Area is the single biggest opportunity to address Western Sydney’s alarming jobs deficit,” Cr Davies said. ““More local jobs is a priority for our community and Council works hard to advocate for opportunities and infrastructure to make this a reality,” Cr Davies said.

A chocoholic’s paradise

Michelle Morgan, Owner/Chocolatier-Zokoko. Photo: Kieren Tilly

By Kieren Tilly

MOST Chocoholics dream of owning their own chocolate factory however Zokoko owner and chocolate maker Michelle Morgan made this dream a reality and in turn has committed herself to the ongoing production of gold award artisan chocolate.

Located in Emu Heights since 2009 hand in hand with the family’s coffee roasting business, Zokoko produces chocolate lines comprising both single origin and or blended chocolate using single origin cacao( the bean from which chocolate is derived) from locations as diverse as Bolivia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and far north Queensland. Michelle fell for cacao in Costa Rica on a coffee bean sourcing trip with husband and respected coffee

roaster, Dean Morgan.

The “bean to bar” process can take between three to five days to complete.

No two batches of cacao beans are alike and the chocolate maker must be prepared to constantly taste and test the ingredients.

“The more you work with it, the more you are able to pick up the subtle changes at every stage - in fact be prepared to ‘listen to the beans’.’’

Michelle said. Anyone who spends time with this proud wife, mum and chocolate maker will immediately realise the two ingredients she does not mention on the packaging: - passion and love.

Michelle’s hands-on approach not only applies to creating fine chocolate, but all the less glamorous aspects of running any business behind the

scenes. Added to this is her personal interaction with the growers of the raw cacao both here and overseas.

Michelle and Dean are acutely aware of their social obligations as business owners to both the bean growers and their communities, supporting them via technological advances, protection of the local environment, advice on the global cacao market or simply hosting growers study tours to the facility in Emu Heights.

It would be fair to say Michelle regards Zokoko as not just a family business but a family in the truest sense of the word, from the cacao fields to the smiling face on Old Bathurst Road that serves you your block of Alto Beni 68 per cent.

My advice- Try the Alto Beni!

Contact Zokoko on 1300 965 656.

WHO & HOW CAN PEOPLE VOLUNTEER AT THE RONALD McDONALD NEPEAN FAMILY ROOM? The volunteers at the Family Room assist the staff and families in many different ways. We are always looking for enthusiastic, kind people to help around the Room on weekdays/weekends in various capacities.

These include: ✔ Meet, greet & register families ✔ Orientate families to Family Room ✔ Ensure beverages are available to guests - eg. tea, coffee, snacks ✔ Provide information, support and resources to guests ✔ Light cleaning of bedrooms, bathrooms, all other rooms, fridges and freezers, pantry and storage cupboards ✔ Stocktake items in family room ✔ Assist with administrative tasks as delegated by Family Room Cooridnator ✔ Clean toys and play equipment ✔ Assist with fundraising ✔ Communicate with other volunteers Volunteers will be manning the Family Room Monday to Friday - 8am to 8pm, and weekends and public holidays - 8am to 6pm.

The length of shifts will vary, averaging between 4-5hours/shift on a rotational basis. Call Raylene on 4721 2992 for more

details.

More than a swearing disorder

By Kerrie Martin

LITTLE Thomas Hampton was constantly getting in trouble at school for poking people, not sitting still and interrupting the class.

His parents were at a loss - a specialist had confirmed with them that their son had Asperger Syndrome - a high functioning form of Autism, but they weren’t convinced that was all that was going on with Thomas.

“He tended to do a lot of things that just didn’t seem normal,” Thomas’ father Lee said.

“He would make noises sometimes, his body would twitch, he would have what appeared to be facial grimaces and eye rolling.

“I would ask him “why did you do that?” and his answer would be a shrug of the shoulders and”I don’t know”. People would say to us, “don’t worry he’ll grow out of it” or “really? I haven’t seen anything.”

“So you can imagine we were frustrated - because it appeared we were either imagining it or grossly over-exaggerating it.

Even our own doctor said, don’t worry, all kids have tics when they are little, he will be ok and will grow out of it.”

One night Lee and Katie watched a program on Foxtel about this thing called Tourette Syndrome (TS). It followed the stories of about six young American kids from the age of about 8 to 18 and their struggles with this disorder.

“It was like a light came on, every symptom these kids had, Thomas had them.

Finally we had relief, an answer,” Lee said.

After some to-ing and fro-ing, Thomas was eventually diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome and Asperger Syndrome (high functioning Autism) in October 2011.

“Since then we have found that Thomas falls into the top 15 per cent of worse case scenario, so now we wait and see what his future brings, and how bad it gets,” Lee said.

Lee said a common misconception about TS is that many see it as the swearing disorder.

The Hampton family in Florida for the TS Charity Fun Run Conference the little Boy with them is Jaylen, he is a representative for TS in the USA and was in the documentary that the Hamptons realised what Thomas had.

11 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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“Copralalia” is a form of Tourette Syndrome that causes one to use inappropriate language and or gestures. It is a rare form that affects less than 10 per cent of sufferers.

“The real TS is characterised by two categories of the tics of TS and some common examples include eye blinking, head jerking, facial grimacing, barking noises, squealing, pulling at clothing and repetitive movements of the torso or limbs,” Lee said.

“My son is only in the infancy of this neurological disorder and it will most likely get worse when he enters puberty.

“There is no cure, only medications that can dull the symptoms for some or high-risk surgery that is rarely taken up.”

Lee is hoping that people will get behind a special charity golf day that aims to raise funds for Tourette Syndrome Awareness at Glenmore Heritage Valley on September 13.

“One of my best mates, Murray Rayner had mentioned he wanted to run a Golf Day to try to help out in any way he could. He is a great bloke like that. So here we are two months away from what I hope is a successful charity event,” Lee said.

You can call Lee on 0408 880 050 if you’d like to participate, donate any items or become a sponsor.

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

WHO AM I?

?

I’ve worn more hats than your average Milliner If I dyed my hair grey I’d probably win a Steve Martin look-a-like contest hands down I have an interest in mares and mayors In my spare time I can often be found putt-putting my way around Wallacia I have had some rants in my time but it was always Just An Opinion Result on page 43

Strong tick of approval THE Penrith community can be assured that the City’s infrastructure is being well looked after with the Division of Local Government giving the Council a ‘strong’ rating for its asset renewal and maintenance program.

Penrith City Mayor Mark Davies said the division’s recent Local Government Infrastructure Audit Report had rated Penrith City Council in the second category on a scale of Very Strong (1) to Distressed (6).

“This ‘strong’ rating reflects our Asset Renewal and Maintenance programs that in 2013-14 will invest: • More than $14m in road and drainage networks • $1.1m providing new and improved pathways • more than $2m in buildings • $1.6m renewing our City Centres • and $7m in our parks and recreation assets.

“Renewing the infrastructure that’s so important to our community is a huge challenge but a top priority for Council.

“With limited resources and pressure to accommodate a growing population, we need to make sure our Regional City has what it needs

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(L-R) - Ripples St Marys Leisure and Hydrotherapy Centres General Manager Gregory Crawford and Penrith Mayor Mark Davies keeping things flowing at Ripples.

now and for the future for the community.

“I’m pleased Council’s efforts to manage assets and infrastructure responsibly, and in consultation with our residents, has earned Penrith a strong rating.”

The audit assessed the management practices of each NSW council, including Council’s Community Strategic Plan, Long Term Financial Plan and Workforce Plan.

The report can be viewed at www.dlg.nsw.gov.au.

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AHHH the joys and the pitfalls of giving birth…… your wonderful bundle of joy has turned 18 and guess what? You as the doting parent have been asked (told, informed, directed) that it is your duty to throw a party in honour of them getting to this milestone.

Now, I will inform you that before you even order the cake or write the short invite list with Aunt Myrtle and Uncle Bob and a few second cousins, it’s already on the social media hitting about 2000 people that are (salivating) more than happy to gate crash your house

and trash it for the occasion.

So what do you do? My answer is control, control, control. Take the party away from your house; hire a hall, its controlled by a finish time.

Write a list and send out invitations, and be strict, no invitation no entry (Sorry Grandma Jo).

Access control, hire security to check off lists and hand out wrist bands and let them deal with the uninvited. The youth of today do like a drink and some are like fish drinking water, never know when to stop. My suggestion is that if there is going to be alcohol, have it

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

controlled and no, not by grandad that has had 15 beers already and can’t stand up, telling war stories. A designated bar attendant (controller) and preferably someone with RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol).

Oh also just a hint, the head of the party should also stay sober, I don’t know how many times I have spoken to the hall hirers that can’t even string two words together.

(Not a good look…seriously now… come on). Another suggestion is just hiring a venue that can do all of this for you. Relax!

Music is very important so

playing kungfu fighting at midnight when you are trying to clear the joint out is not a good idea. Try Beethoven’s greatest hits, in extended version So there you have it ….control is the answer. Your child may hate you for embarrassing them in front of their friends , however the party was a success (tick), no one was hurt (tick) your house wasn’t trashed (tick) your child will get over it (tick) and now you have time to organise the 21st. Good Luck!

Oh and don’t forget to tell the local Police you are having an 18th.

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Secret debate

Abusivee parents: Remove their ir kids or teach the them em parenting skills?

He Says........................... .........................She Says DAMNING statistics were recently released indicating that of 50,000 cases reported only about 21,000 are dealt with.

It is easy to point the finger at DOCs, but with limited case workers and resources the problem is much deeper than that.

The redneck ranters are already saying let’s just take the kids and put them up for adoption. Why is it that people assume there is always one simple answer?

In severe cases tougher rules should apply but there has to be another way to address the problem and one of those ways is better education and training for parents.

Facts are that for every dollar spent on early intervention there is a saving of 8 dollars in the future.

The problem with this is Governments these days concentrate more on 3-4 year election cycles and budgets.

Projects that take 16-20 years to show long term benefits don’t

WIN!

fly well with those in charge of handing out the cash.

Don’t blame the pollies - send the message that we will support them if they put more effort into longer term policies.

Our schools are closed in the evening, how about utilising these with some compulsory training for new parents?

We always talk about job training, but we don’t consider it important enough in the difficult task of raising children. One big advantage is you could target problems in the making and use resources more effectively.

We pay allowances to help parents with the cost of raising children – why not make the payments subject to skill training as we do in most things to encourage participation?

This strategy would be far cheaper and much better for the community than simply creating another stolen generation.

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

I THINK we are way too lenient on really bad parents, and the price paid for that leniency is the highest cost imaginable - the life of an innocent child.

All too often we hear following the brutal death of a toddler or child that the offenders were “known to DOCs” or that the neighbours or teachers had voiced their concerns on a number of occasions.

So we have people looking out for the child, but still somehow the child goes from ‘at risk’ to dead.

What a disgrace that we have failed to control this.

The life and subsequent murder of the Mt Druitt child, Kiesha, was a devastating tale.

The most appalling fact was that Kiesha had presented to hospital earlier with cigarette burns and bite marks allegedly given to her by her mother.

Let me repeat that, because we’re not talking about a smack

on the tail for being naughty here - biting a toddler like an animal and stubbing a cigarette out on her baby flesh.

A person capable of this should lose the right immediately to raise a child - why are we giving these despicable creatures second, third and umpteen chances?

If a mother shows such abhorrent cruelty to her own child, what hope is there she’ll have any consideration for the rest of society?

Yet the lefties will tell us that people like this need our support and help! Sorry, but it is just too risky to leave a child with someone dishing out that level of abuse and hoping that a bit of training might change them from a monster to a loving parent. That consideration should have been taken away from little Kiesha’s mother the minute she felt the need to stub a cigarette out on her beautiful daughter.

WHO’S WINNING Personality or Policies?

HE WINS

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

THE G SPOT

13

14

local news

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

One Big Macca’s Celebration Locals invited to celebrate 1st Birthday of McDonald’s North Penrith MCDONALD’S North Penrith will soon be turning one – and invites all members of the local community to join in on the official birthday celebrations on Saturday 20 July.

Since it opened its doors in July 2012, the crew and management of McDonald’s North Penrith continues to work hard to ensure that every customer who walks through their doors receives an experience that delivers on the McDonald’s promise of quality food, clean restaurants and fast, friendly service.

McDonald’s North Penrith Licensees Frank and Marie Meduri are thrilled to have reached this important milestone and urge all members of the local community to come along and enjoy the celebrations.

“Our family have had the privilege of serving members of the community from all walks of life, from families, elderly citizens or local students who often come in to enjoy quality coffee from our McCafé, one of our delectable menu offerings and a free internet connection,” said Frank.

“We’re passionate about our local

community and our North Penrith restaurant is a great success thanks to their constant support. The birthday celebration is our way of showing our appreciation to the Penrith community, as we couldn’t have done it without them,” added Frank.

The festivities will begin at 11am, with plenty on offer for adults and children alike, including face painting, a jumping castle and a birthday cake.

The 2GB Continuous Call Team will be broadcasting live from 12pm. Ronald McDonald and Hamburglar will also pay a visit to the restaurant at lunchtime to join in on the fun.

Since its opening last year, McDonald’s North Penrith has provided important community support, employing more than 130 local residents, as well as sponsoring local sporting groups such Brothers Rugby Club.

Frank and his son Operations Manager Domenic Meduri are also active members of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce, and are committed to achieving their goal of providing a boost to the local economy.

Birthday celebrations: Frank Meduri and his son, Dom. Photo: Kieren Tilly.

“We are proud that McDonald’s North Penrith has helped create jobs for locals in the region as well as

further strengthen the local economy to benefit all members of the community,” concluded Frank.

Abby’s collapse

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT with Dr Tony Karolis phone 4733 3456

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

By Dr Claire Petterson

RECENTLY at Nepean and Mountains Animal Hospitals we met Abby, a 9 week old female Pomeranian cross Shitzu. Abby presented to our Mountains Animal Hospital in a collapsed state. She was unable to walk and unresponsive to her surroundings. Before the incident, Abby had had diarrhoea, was lethargic and eating less. Her owners became

Abby during her hospital visit

alarmed when she collapsed and she was brought straight in.

On arrival, we placed an intravenous line in Abby’s front leg, and supplied oxygen via a face mask. We gave her fluids and glucose intravenously, as well as rubbing honey on her gums. Soon after receiving fluids and glucose, Abby

became brighter and was able to sit up. An hour later, she was mobile and had even regained her appetite. After a night on fluids and regular feeding, Abby made a full recovery and was able to go home.

The cause of Abby’s collapse was low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycaemia. Young toy breed

puppies such as Pomeranians and Chihuahuas are particularly prone to this condition. Low blood sugar can be brought on by environmental factors such as stress, missing a meal, becoming chilled and exhaustion from playing too much. It can also be caused by vomiting, diarrhoea, inherited problems, severe infection or hormone deficiencies. Blood tests can help diagnose these conditions.

In Abby’s case, blood tests showed a mild infection. Abby was treated with antibiotics. A few weeks on, Abby has recovered fully and has not had any further incidents of hypoglycaemia. Her owners have been careful to feed her regular meals, with honey on hand if she begins to show signs.

Young puppies need to be fed small, frequent meals of a premium brand puppy food. It is important to keep them warm and minimise stress, especially in the first few days of settling in at a new home. Symptoms of low blood sugar include weakness, shaking, trembling and collapse. Left untreated, low blood sugar can result in coma and even death. If your puppy shows signs of low blood sugar, do not hesitate in contacting a veterinary hospital. We are available at all hours at Nepean and Mountains Animal Hospitals.

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

16 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

BOB Ausburn’s spirits lifted when he spoke about his reunion with his future wife on his return from serving King and Country in the Pacific as an artilleryman during World War II. The Legend of the Nepean had just told me that his beloved Eve has

passed away in April, 2011.

“We were married on July 19, 1946 and had 65 wonderful years together as husband and wife,” Bob told me.

Bob and Eve had three daughters, Jocelyn, Dale and Kim – there are now four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

It was then that I posed the question to Bob about meeting up

again in Sydney with his sweetheart of three years at war’s end.

“You wouldn’t believe it,” Bob said with a laugh.

“A couple of days before I was still in New Guinea when me and my cobbers were told to pack our gear and embark on a ship which would take us back home.

“The ship docked in Sydney and we boarded buses to take us out to Marrickville where we were to be immediately discharged.

“The bus was travelling slowly up George Street. I was looking out the window and couldn’t believe my eyes.

“There was Eve Kelly and a couple of fellow nursing friends from Nepean Hospital walking out of an arcade.

“Oi, Eve, see you on The Fish tonight,” Bob recalled shouting out to his loved one.

‘The Fish’ and ‘The Chips’ were names given to two fast trains from the Blue Mountains to the city – they ran in peak periods morning and night.

You can well imagine the euphoria of their reunion on the Country platform later that evening!

The interview for this article was conducted at Nepean Rowing

Club – appropriate really because the rising 90-year-old – he becomes a sexagenarian (he laughed when I told him that) on September 28 –has spent most of his adult life “hanging ‘round the club”.

Bob is a legend in rowing circles and is revered by generations of rowers who have represented the Nepean club since its inception in 1928.

The still sprightly 89-year-old has been a wonderful servant to Nepean Rowing Club which, he stresses, has also given much in return.

As well as donning club colours in numerous events, Bob has served as club captain and vice-captain, been a long-time selector and for yonks developed a respected relationship with local media as the club’s publicity officer.

Bob was awarded a NRC life membership and he and Eve, who was also an integral member of the club, had one of the club’s sleek foursomes boats named in their honour.

“Being a member here has been responsible for the development of so many life-time friendships – many of those friends are now gone but I’m blessed that there’s plenty of old mates still around,” Bob said.

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/shedsnhomes.sydney • Call us today on 0449 174 337 Email: paul.lommerse@shedsnhomes.com.au

BOB AUSBURN 1923, the second-youngest of the eight children of Albert “Dick” Ausburn, a hard-working shearing contractor and his wife, Alice.

He attended Penrith Public and Penrith Intermediate High and then took up full-time employment at Frank Miller Men’s and Sportswear in High Street.

“I had worked for Frank at the store after school and on Saturday mornings and during holidays doing odds jobs such as sweeping and cleaning windows,” Bob said.

“When I finished school, Frank offered me a full-time job as a shop assistant and I was in the trade until I retired in 1983.

“I worked for Frank, who was an inspirational and kindly mentor and friend, until he died in 1974, I managed the shop until it closed two years later and then spent the following seven years at Neale Brothers Menswear until going on the pension.”

But “going on the pension” didn’t mean Bob had put the cue in the rack.

As a passionate historian on all things NRC, he remains heavily involved with the club.

Indeed just last Sunday at annual

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

One of those “old mates” is John “Cas” Cook who, along with Bob, made their own little bit of history back in the 1938-39 summer rowing season.

Cas, 16-year-old Bob and Don Dengate and Herb Mallard were members of the Nepean RC foursomes crew which scored a thrilling victory at the NSW Championships, becoming the first boat to win a state title for the club.

Bob rowed at No 2, one seat ahead of Cas who stroked the crew.

“We had a ding-dong battle over the entire mile and a half (2.4km) with the Glebe boat – it was neck and neck all the way and it was only in the final half dozen strokes that we pulled ahead to win,” Bob recalled.

“The crowds along both banks of the river crowds cheered themselves hoarse and of course the locals went crazy when we crossed the line in front.”

Bob and Cas and a crew of around 15 veteran rowers get together each Tuesday at NRC “for coffee, reminisce about old mates and tell lots and lots of lies about our rowing prowess”.

A member of one of Penrith’s pioneering families, Bob was born in

17

awards presentations he gave an address outlining the history of the club to an enthralled audience whose ages spanned several generations.

Until recent years he was an ardent volunteer at Nepean Hospital’s cardiac unit where he helped conduct exercise classes for those, like himself, who had undergone heart surgery.

Bob keeps himself fit by completing a series of exercises each morning and night and is a regular social bowler.

“Use it or lose it,” he quipped.

Longevity has been an Ausburn family trait – sister, Lislie, earlier this

year celebrated her 100th birthday and his younger sister, Bonnie, turns 83 in September.

I asked Bob why there was such a long gap in years between his birth and that of the seven years younger Bonnie.

“Dad went shearing,” he laughed.

Bob Ausburn was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean

by Bruce Turner If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at greg@nepeannews.com.au

Creative

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M Magazine z e & Ne Newspaper e De Design Business Stationery Invitations Banners / Posters / Flyers Newsletters Signage

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TAX TIME

18 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

By Nadim Joukhadar Freedom Taxation Services

IT’S that time of the year again when I am the most popular person at BBQ’s, birthday parties, the footy or any other functions.

With the Federal Government changing the tax free threshold from $6,000 to $18,200 a lot of people may be under the impression they do not have to lodge a tax return for the 2013 year.

The problem is that even if you income is under this figure of $18,200 you may still need to lodge a tax return. The most common reasons for this include the fact that you; • are entitled to the private health insurance rebate • had pay as you go (PAYG) withheld from payments received during the year • had a reportable fringe benefits amount on their PAYG payment summary • had reportable employer superannuation contributions on their PAYG payment summary

• made a loss or can claim a loss made in a previous year • were an Australian resident for tax purposes and had exempt foreign employment income and $1 or more of other income.

You can check if you need to lodge an income tax return, by referring to the ATO website at http://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/ Tax-Return/2013/Completing-your-return/ Do-you-need-to-lodge-a-tax-return-/ This year the ATO has also released a series of videos on you tube on how to complete certain areas of the tax return. While there is nothing wrong with people completing their own returns, especially when they are straight forward I just advise caution. ATO officers tend to be more heavy handed when dealing directly with taxpayers.

I’ll have more tips next edition. If you have questions feel free to call my office on 4731 6000.

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Nepean News 4 July 2013 Issue 103

3

Heavens Above Learning about

20 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Be Your Own Champion Have you got a dream?

If you haven’t, get one soon. Please.

As a wise composer once wrote (Hamerstein I think) “If You don’t have a dream...How ya gonna have a dream come true?”

Then you will have something you can work towards and become “A Champion” It’s all about You! Plenty of people will tell you to forget it! “You’ll never do it!”

But please remember, it will always be your dream -no matter what it has to go through.

People who find fault in others are the real losers.

They are the ones who have never done anything or they’ve given up!

Otherwise they would be respecting those who “Have A Go” They wouldn’t criticise anyone for wanting to Give It A Go. So, grab onto your dream.

Ride it every inch of the way, and you will become Your Own Champion.

LEO

by Aunty N.

LEO, the Lion, is the fifth sign of the zodiac for those born between July 23 and August 22. Their ruling planet is the sun; the centre of our universe. In much the same way, Leo often considers themself to be indispensable and the centre of the universe. The Lion loves praise and needs to be careful not to surround himself with sycophants. Leo’s best friends are those loyal supporters who are scathingly honest and not afraid to draw attention to the lion’s shortcomings.

Leos are devoted to high ideals; they aspire to be honourable, conscientious, and generous. At their best they are honest, loyal, dynamic and creative. The Lion is not afraid to face adversity and has the capacity to work very hard to achieve long term goals. Leos are not adverse to having fun or enjoying the finer things in life, only Taurus has a greater appreciation of material wealth than the Lion.

Vanity and ambition are Leo’s downfall; they may also have unrealistic expectations of others, which can lead them to act in

a bullying manner. Leos who fail to overcome these traits can be demanding, domineering, insensitive and destructive, they risk drowning in egocentrism and materialism.

The Lion can flourish in any career they put their mind too but excel in positions of leadership and/or creativity. Careers suitable for Leos include politics, theatre and film.

Best relationship matches are Aries, Sagittarius and Taurus. Leo and Aries are independent, active and headstrong; together they can generate a lot of passion. Sagittarius and Leo will make an exciting connection with the emphasis on fun, travel and adventure.

Day in the life of

Penrit h Visitor Information Centre

By Kieren Tilly

A FRIENDLY face and a can-do attitude is what visitors and residents alike will find when they walk through the door of the Penrith Visitor Information Centre located on the grounds of Penrith Panthers Entertainment .

Whether seeking the finest in food that Penrith Valley can offer, accommodation to suit any budget or the must-see attractions, calling in to speak to the staff on duty is a necessary first step on the road to truly discovering Penrith.

As the majority of “Penrith Ambassadors” assisting visitors to the area have built their lives in Penrith and are spending their retirement in Penrith, they feel obliged to ensure that Penrith as a tourism destination

retains its reputation as laid back and open without the hustle and bustle.

Amongst these Ambassadors is volunteer Mr. Pat Breheny whose desire to help is only matched by his passion to see Penrith succeed and prosper in terms of the tourism trade during his tenure at the centre.

Pat, a 2004 recruit, describes helping people as the thing that keeps him coming back.

“The happiness the gladness at having been helped, you can almost feel it in them (the visitors)” he said.

He also believes that a strong tourism industry would result in opportunities for young people in the area to gain meaningful long term employment.

Working hand in hand with the ambassadors, Information Officers such Susan Hamilton described the

Penrith Ambassador - Pat Breheny with Information Officer Susan Hamilton onsite at Penrith Visitor Information Centre.

strengths of the volunteers as being “passion, love and ownership of the area.”

Greeting approximately 15,000 visitors annually from all over the world, the centre has become something of a one-stop shop for those seeking any information relating to businesses “of visitor interest.”

Susan emphasised that Penrith is known for wearing a number of hats as a tourist destination as opposed to being known for a singular attraction.

“Local businesses are certainly onboard as unofficial ambassadors for visitors and the compliments we

receive via word of mouth confirm this,” Susan said.

It would appear that the tourism business in Penrith is everyone in Penrith’s business.

And for those volunteers lucky enough to be selected to work at Penrith Visitor Information Centre?

The opportunity to work amongst a dedicated, welcoming group of people is only matched by the satisfaction of helping a helping a stranger in town become a friend of Penrith.

For all tourism related inquiries please contact Penrith Visitor Information Centre on 1300 736 836.

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Nepean News 20 June 2013 Issue 102

22 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Danira’s Boutique Spa 4 kids EVERY little lady loves to be pampered, especially on her birthday.

For a birthday party with a difference for your special princess, consider Danira’s Boutique and Spa for Kids at 164 Station Street, Penrith.

Danira’s Boutique and Spa for Kids has created a fairy-tale atmosphere where every girl can feel like Cinderella or their favourite celebrity. Flowers, chandeliers and mirrors are just part of the décor to inspire your birthday girl and her guests to relax and have fun while enjoying the ultimate pampering party.

Mums and Dads are welcome to attend, with tea and coffee facilities available in the adult area.

Upon arrival at Danira’s Boutique and Spa for Kids, guests will be greeted with Pink Lemonade and offered a spa robe to wear for the occasion.

Next it’s off to the Pamper Room for a relaxing foot spa infused with rose petals, followed by a pedicure and manicure with their choice of OPI

or temporary nail polish. Guests are then invited to lie on a pink, vibrating massage table for a hypoallergenic ivory face mask.

Once the pampering is complete, guests may make their way into the Disco Room which features a touch screen Karaoke facility and dance floor. Computer games are also available plus craft activities such as jewellery making. Younger guests may also enjoy trying on the various dress-up outfits.

Party food is available throughout the occasion in the Princess Cake Cutting Room which includes a chocolate fondue with marshmallow dips on sticks.

All guests receive a complimentary gift bag and the Birthday Girl also receives a photo CD to remember the occasion.

Pamper Party Packages are available from $400 for a minimum of eight attendees. Ages recommended are four to twelve years. For enquiries call Danira on 8095 1236.

Danira’s Boutique Spa 4 Kids Danira’s Boutique Spa 4 Kids is having a Disco Pamper Day on the weekend 20th and 21st July - $35.00 per child Ivory face masks | mini manicures with lots of polishes to choose from .... come and have a great fun day with a disco, limbo, musical chairs.... pink lemonade .... chocolate marshmallow and choc strawberries to enjoy while you get pampered - bookings essential First session 10am to 12.30pm second session 1pm to 3.30pm Text or Call: Reception:

0434 116 933 8095 1236

164 STATION STREET, PENRITH

or

0406 502 269

WE ARE NOW TAKING BIRTHDAY PARTY BOOKINGS Different packages available

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Yearly & seasonal special events & festivals Memory Park day activation Evening Activation & local promotions PR & marketing the CBD

LOCAL TALENT ~ COMMUNITY SPRIRT

Business improvement programme Public Domain Programme Enivironment Sustainable Programme Education Programme for local business

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TNZ Coatings For more info contact Gai or Sue on 4722

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ACTIVATE • REJUVENATE • POPULATE

26

local news

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Take the challenge

Quick tips for a healthier you

VALLEY FITNESS ST Mary’s is offering the ultimate weight loss and lifestyle program. The famous “60 Day Weight Loss Challenge” will provide you with the support, knowledge and motivation to lose those unwanted kilos and keep them off.

On July 20 Valley Fitness will be launching its Famous 60 Day Weight Loss Challenge for 2013. As part the 60 Day Weight Loss Challenge participants receive weekly personal training sessions two training sessions per week in the exclusive altitude chamber which is proven to accelerate training benefits and weight loss along with nutritional consultations and a personalised weight loss program and unlimited club membership.

To provide additional support and motivation weight loss challenge participants will be paired with a “buddy” who will be your training partner throughout the entire 8 week weight loss and lifestyle change journey.

Results over the past four years have been so positive with people, who have never been into a gym before losing up to 23% of their body weight within the 8 week program.

• Wherever possible, take the stairs not the lift • Park your car 15 minutes away from where you’re going so you can clock up a 30 minute walk • Make a commitment to take your dog on regular walks • Don’t buy takeaway every time you’re too busy to cook - make a sandwich instead • Choose water as your preferred drink • Don’t skip breakfast • Limit your intake of coffee and alcohol • Keep your diet low in fat - especially saturated fat. Saturated fat, which is the predominant fat in animal products, fried foods, chocolate, cakes and biscuits, is more easily deposited as fat tissue than unsaturated fat. Saturated fat can also be converted into cholesterol and cause blood cholesterol levels to rise.

Nita AS K

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

Valley Fitness is so confident that this program will enable you to lose weight it is offering a money back guarantee.

The results achieved throughout last season’s 60 Day Weight Loss Challenge were remarkable, 92% of participants lost weight along with centimetres off their waist, hips or abdominal region. More importantly they reported feeling fitter and have more energy at work and when playing with the kids Valley Fitness offers over 2000sqm of state of the art health and fitness facilities which include a ladies only training zone, free crèche, diverse group exercise timetable, separate cardio and weights training zones , friendly customer service staff and highly qualified Personal Trainers focused on guiding you to succeed.

The 60 Day Weight Loss Challenge is a life changing program that will allow you to look and feel great bout yourself. So if you’re looking to get your weight loss journey started look no further than Valley Fitness. Feel free to contact us on 96234100 or drop into the centre located within the Gateway complex on the Great Western Highway, St Marys.

Cosmetic tattooing How does it work?

Permanent cosmetics are a type of cosmetic tattooing that uses pharmaceutical grade pigments which are applied to the second layer of your skin. This results in a wonderful shadow of colour that looks like perfectly applied makeup.

How long does it last?

Permanent cosmetics are exactly as they sound - permanent! Over the years the colour may fade, but don’t worry, you can simply have a top up every year to 18 months which makes them look as good as new.

Does it hurt?

It’s no more painful than having yyour eyebrows tweezed and our ttattooist uses sophisticated equipment tthat eliminates any distress.

Our tattooist...

Sarah Kroh is a permanent cosmetic makeup artist based in Australia.

Having completed her training with Karen Betts of Nouveau ContourThe UK’s leading training academy.

She then became a member of her elite training staff having the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients

including Jade Goody of Jades salon and Big Brother UK series.

The method of Cosmetic tattooing Sarah uses allows her to create beautiful natural looking Eye Brows.

Defined , Enhanced or Bold Eyeliners and recreate lip lines to make lips appear fuller and defined with soft hues of colour.

Keep in mind that Sarah can create hundreds of different looks and each Cosmetic Tattoo procedure is created for the individual, using both her skills and knowledge and the needs and expectations of the client.

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44

Nepean News 4 July 2013 Issue 103

AINs ONLY

28 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Back to Basics Care

Education exclusively for AINs

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CONTACT:

0405 918 094

CROSSWORD ACROSS 8 Journey (4) 9 Intermediary (10) 10 Exit (6) 11 Deities (8) 12 Hawaiian island (4) 13 Willful (10) 17 When fruit is ready to eat (4) 18 Inhale through the nose (5) 19 Consumes food (4) 20 Moving to another country (10) 22 A hollow in a cliff (4) 23 In England, it’s a lift (8) 27 Shrewd (6) 28 Struggled (10) 29 Require (4)

DOWN 1 A practical approach to problems (10) 2 Small orb (8) 3 Knock out gas (10) 4 A mild expletive (4) 5 A distinct part (4) 6 Peril (6) 7 Cast or form (4) 14 Proof of innocence (5) 15 Precautions (10) 16 Births (10) 19 Thrilling (8) 21 Rule (6) 24 Be fond of (4) 25 Identical twosome (4) 26 A tributary of the Rhine River (4)

solution 4/7/13

entertainment INFAMOUS American gangster, George Celino Barnes – better known as Machine Gun Kelly – was born on this day in 1895 and also died on the same day of the year in 1954.

Kelly gained his nickname for a fondness for his favourite weapon, the Thompson submachine gun.

Thompson spent the last 21 years of his life in prison after being convicted of the kidnapping of a wealthy American businessman.

The great Groucho Marx‛s one-liners had people laughing for more than 100 years.

Outside of a dog, a book is man‛s best friend. Inside of a dog, it‛s too dark to read.

2.

From the moment I picked up your book until I laid it down, I was convulsed with laughter.

Someday I intend reading it.

3.

I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book.

4.

I never forget a face, but in your case I‛ll be glad to make an exception.

5.

I sent the club a wire stating: “Please accept my resignation. I don‛t want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member.”

6.

I‛ve had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn‛t it.

7.

Those are my principles, and if you don‛t like them... well, I have others.

8.

He may look like an idiot and talk like an idiot but don‛t let that fool you. He really is an idiot.

9.

Either this man is dead or my watch has stopped. (Groucho in movie Monkey Business).

EVENTS 1925 Adolph Hitler publishes his personal memoir, Mein Kampf. It was a best-seller in Germany and Austria.

1955 Walt Disney opens the first Disneyland theme park in Anaheim, California.

BIRTHS 1635 Robert Hooke, English scientist (d. 1703).

1848 W.G. Grace, English cricketer (d. 1915).

1918 Nelson Mandela, revered South African politican.

1921 John Glenn, American astronaut/politician 1925 Shirley Strickland, Australian track and field star (d. 2004) 1949 Dennis Lillee, Australian cricketer 1950 Richard Branson, English entrepreneur-businessman.

DEATHS 1610 Caravaggio, Italian artist.

1817 Jane Austen, English novelist.

1892 Thomas Cook, English founder of Thomas Cook Travel).

SUDOKU: EASY

WORD SEARCH

10. We‛ve got to speed things up in this hotel. Chef, if a guest orders a three-minute egg, give it to him in two minutes. If he orders a two-minute egg, give it to him in one minute.

If he orders a one-minute egg, give him a chicken and let him work it out for himself.

(Groucho in movie A Night in Casablanca).

SOLUTION: 4th July

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Step back in time

JOKES 1.

29

OLD TV SHOWS

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

ALICE BEN CASEY BEVERLY HILLBILLIES CHIPS CANNON CAPTAIN KANGAROO DOBIE GILLIS DONNA REED DR. KILDARE EMERGENCY FLIPPER FLYING NUN FUGITIVE GOMER PYLE

GOOD TIMES GREEN ACRES GREEN HORNET HOWDY DOODY I SPY IRONSIDE JETSONS KOJAK L.A. LAW LASSIE LOVE BOAT MAD ABOUT YOU MAUDE MEDICAL CENTER

MIAMI VICE MOD SQUAD MOONLIGHTING MURPHY BROWN ODD COUPLE PEYTON PLACE RAWHIDE RIFLEMAN RIN TIN TIN SOAP ST. ELSEWHERE TAXI THREE’S COMPANY WALTONS

entertainment

30 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Glitz, glamour and ohhhh those legs

By Kerrie Martin

BLESSED with supermodel looks, fabulous legs and standing at a statuesque six feet, Rhonda Burchmore has spent her entire life dazzling audiences with her precision-perfect dance steps, commanding stage presence, superb comic timing, effervescent personality, and most of all, that stunning voice.

Her latest show, Legs 11, is a feelgood, musical biography of 25 years in the spotlight, set to an inspiring and fascinating backdrop of songs and stories that shaped her life.

Growing up in Beverley Hills, Rhonda said she lived in a tiny home – a stark contrast with the glamour and glitz that her life was to become.

“I went back there recently, feeling sentimental about where it all began,” Rhonda said.

“I’m so lucky to do what I’ve done; to think that I went from a modest street to wining and dining Bill Clinton – I know it sounds corny

but it shows anything is possible!”

Interestingly, her next door neighbor in that street was another child that would go on to be a household name – Mr Bouris – the small street that housed about ten families was home to Rhonda Burchmore and Mark Bouris!

Talking about her life in the spotlight, Rhonda remembered her first appearance on TV in the Junior Cabaret; not one of her finest moments!

Rhonda was given about 12 hours to learn a song called “I know a place” – an ironic song title for a performance that showed she may know a place but she didn’t know the words!

“Fortunately I was saved by Jeff Harvey and was able to get back on the horse,” Rhonda laughed.

“My career could have been finished before it began and all these years later it still haunts me!”

In Legs 11, Rhonda shares the journey of her life; from the makeshift dance studio her dad built on the veranda of the family home,

to performing around the world including London’s West “I love the glamour; I love the frocks. I think you owe it to the audience to put on a show. As they say, it’s not called show business for no reason.”

Over the past 25 years, Rhonda Burchmore’s stage credits have grown to cover an amazingly diverse array of the world’s best musicals and shows. In her “Legs 11” repertoire, she has included songs from some of the favourite shows she has starred in, including Sugar Babies, Hot Shoe Shuffle, Stop The World I Want To Get Off, Annie Get Your Gun, Guys & Dolls, Into The Woods, Mame, The Drowsy Chaperone and Mamma Mia. Songs include Birth of the Blues, What Kind Of Fool Am I, The Last Man In My Life, Dancing Queen, Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend, Shakin’ The Blues Away, Fever, and many more.

Book now for “Legs 11” at EVAN Theatre, Penrith Panthers on Friday 2nd August - Bookings: (02) 4720 5555.

WITH RHYS GOODEY

WE think winter’s grim in Sydney, but in France it’s much more severe. Alsace, the province in the north east, has freezing cold winters from late November almost to April, the little halftimbered mediaeval towns and vineyards covered in snow. But the vines don’t mind up to four months of snow. Summer comes short but hot, autumn then long and warm ; the ripening profile for wine grapes is ideal. The soil is churned out of the foothills of the nearby mountains over millions of years , and with marl, schist and granite aplenty, it is perfect drainage for the hardy vines’ roots.

Choose Riesling for fish and poultry dishes, truly dry but aromatic and crisp.

Gewurztraminer and Edelzwicker, still dry and more highly perfumed with scents of lychee and mango, are lovely with white or washed rind or even blue cheeses, otherwise with spicy Indian or South East Asian food.

Pinot Blanc is a less aromatic dry white perfect for marinaded tuna or a baked schnapper or poultry dishes.

Pinot Gris is less sweet than the Australasian version, but has a lovely round mouthfeel and apricot and other stone fruit tastes perfect for chicken, pate, cheese plates and spicy fishcakes.

The Cremant (sparkling wine) is made like Champagne but at half the price, punches well above its price tag.

One red dominates Alsace, the Pinot Noir, mild and smooth as velvet and long finishing. You would love it with fondue, raclette, mushrooms, salmon and red meat dishes.

The vineyards we deal with are guided by agriculture raisonee ( minimal chemical interference ) or else have gone fully organic and have low levels of sulphur dioxide.

Two kindred reds , the Gamay of Anjou and Beaujolais add to the variety if you are a red drinker. If you are going to France, don’t miss Alsace, an easy TGV train ride from Paris. Contact us for vineyard visits.

Cheers! Rhys info@arkwines.com (02) 9327 8883

The Whites:

The Sparklings:

1. Charles Baur Riesling 2009 Eguisheim Alsace 2. Domaine Frey Sohler Riesling 2010 Eguisheim Alsace 3. Charles Baur Gewurztraminer 2009 Eguisheim Alsace 4. Charles Baur Edelzwicker 2008 Eguisheim Alsace 5 Domaine Frey Sohler 2010 Pinot Blanc Scherwiller Alsace 6. Charles Baur Pinot Gris 2009 Eguisheim Alsace

7. Domaine Frey Sohler Dry Riesling Cremant Scherwiller Alsace 8 . Charles Baur Cremant Eguisheim Alsace

The Reds: 9. Charles Baur 2009 Pinot Noir Eguisheim Alsace 10. Charles Baur 2009 Pinot Noir Scherwiller Alsace 11. Domaine des Quarres 2010 Anjou Gamay 12. Domaine Chavet 2011 Macon Gamay Beaujolais Rouge

Choose any twelve of the above wines for $175 (value $240+) delivered COD directly to you anywhere in metropolitan Sydney up to Blue Mountains.

Just ring 9327 8883 or 0410 98 36 98 or email info@arkwines.com with your selection or order through the website

www.arkwines.com THIS IS A FANTASTIC WINTER OFFER JUST FOR READERS OF NEPEAN NEWS - DON’T DELAY, ORDER NOW!

Mike’s Pantry with Mike Creed

Lemon Meringue Pie INGREDIENTS: Crust 1 cup all purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon sugar 1 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil 2 tablespoons butter 1 - 2 tablespoons ice water Filling & Meringue 1 cup + 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup cornstarch 1 1/2 cups water 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 4 eggs, separated 1 1/2 tablespoons finely minced lemon zest 2 tablespoons butter INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat oven to 220C To make the crust: Mix the flour, salt and sugar together in a large bowl. Add oil and butter

and, with a mix-master or clean hands, combine until mixture forms peasized particles.

Add 1 tablespoon of the ice water. Stir the dry mixture with a fork, mixing until liquid is just incorporated. If dough is too dry, then add more water, 1 to 2 teaspoons at a time.

Form dough into a ball and flatten out slightly to a big disk, fold over each side into the middle, so there are 3 layers. Wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in refrigerator for 20 minutes.

After dough has chilled, press the portion into a flat round disk. On a lightly floured surface roll out dough into a 1/8-inch-thick circle that is about 1 inch larger all around than a 9-inch pie dish.

Place crust in pie pan and crimp the edges. Prick crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing while baking. (If pastry puffs, carefully reach in oven

and prick pastry again where puffing.)

Bake for about 8 - 10 minutes until golden brown then remove from oven and cool.

Reduce oven temperature to 200C. Meanwhile, make filling: In a heavy sauce pan whisk together 1 cup of the sugar, cornstarch, water and lemon juice until well combined and cornstarch is dissolved.

Place over medium heat and stir constantly until mixture is thickened and lightly simmering.

Mix together the egg yolks in a small bowl with a little of the hot mixture to temper the eggs, and whisk quickly into the simmering mixture.

Cook about 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until totally thickened.

Remove from heat and whisk in lemon

zest and butter.

Cool, stirring often. When filling has cooled slightly, pour into the cooked pie shell.

To finish pie: Make meringue by whipping the 4 reserved egg whites in a mixer on medium high speed until frothy.

Gradually beat in the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, a little at a time with mixer on high. Continue beating until stiff and glossy but not dry. Pile meringue on pie, sealing meringue onto edge of crust to prevent shrinking of the meringue.

Swirl with a spoon for a decorative, peaky top and bake in the 200C preheated oven for 6 - 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Place on a rack to cool.

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

out west WINE

31

entertainment

32 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro DON’T miss one of the world’s alltime favourite operas when the Joan Sutherland Performing Art Centre and the renowned Pacific Opera Company present Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro (Le nozze di Figaro), on Saturday 10 August, 8pm.

A single day of madness, a wedding of two servants, a scheming, skirt-chasing Count and a plot rife

with the complexities of marriage, jealousy, infidelity and infatuation; The Marriage of Figaro is often proclaimed as the most entertaining operatic comedy ever written, the music filled with wonderful fluid orchestration and beautiful shimmering melodies.

In this witty, elegant blend of high comedy and Mozart’s sublime music, Pacific Opera perform this hilarious

work in the style of Opéra Comique, where some of the recitatives are replaced by dialogue. This version was how the author Beaumarchais presented the first French performance of Figaro before the King Louis XVI’s court - a performance which so shocked the king that he forbade its public presentation.

Continuing the story of The Barber

of Sevillle, The Marriage of Figaro recounts a day of lunacy in the palace of the Count Almaviva near Seville, Spain. Having lost his romantic youthfulness, the count has become a scheming, bullying, skirt-chasing baritone. He keeps finding excuses to delay the wedding of his two servants, Figaro and Susanna. Figaro, Susanna and Countess Rosina, conspire to embarrass the count and expose his deviousness. Through Figaro’s and Susanna’s clever manipulations, the Count’s love for his Countess is finally restored.

Accompanied by the Penrith Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Paul Terracini; Pacific Opera’s “Figaro” is directed by Mackenie Steele with Music Direction by Glenn Amer and stars: Daniel Macey, Javier Viarino, Maia Andrews, Pamela Andrews, Laura King, Sepehr Irandoost, Joelene Griffiths, Damian Arnold, Georgia Kokkoris, Karuna Kourkova, Rhian Saunders and Hannah Greenshields.

Pacific Opera’s The Marriage of Figaro Saturday 10 August, 8pm.

Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith.

Ticket s A $49 / C $45 / Group 10+ $42 each.

Bookings: 4723-7600 or visit: www.jspac.com.au

Preston Reed, and Chillan brothers Martinez.

Richard Savery (clarinets/ saxophone), has toured the UK, USA and the Caribbean Islands, and performed with such artists as Alan

Cumming, Lance Horne, Phil Stack, Tim Davies and Amanda Palmer.

Marianna Ensemble at The Joan, 597 High Street, Penrith. Tickets $20-$30. Bookings ring 4723 7600 or go to: www.jspac.com.au

A story of love DON’T miss the renowned and exquisite Marianna Ensemble when they present “Historia De Un Amor” – A Story of Love at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Sunday 28 July, 3pm.

With musicians hailing from both Russia and Australia, this awardwinning Sydney based art-music quartet, perform vibrant arrangements of jazz, classical, folk, opera, and contemporary music.

“A Story of Love” is told through the performance of beautiful and timeless Gypsy, Russian and European love songs that feature throughout the concert including: Historia De Un Amor, Dark Eyes, Habanera and Kiss of Fire.

Joining the Marianna Ensemble on stage will be Australian champion ballroom dancers, Vladimir Okunev and Adelina Abushaeva, providing a complete feast for the ears and eyes!

These expert dancers will perform original choreography to Marianna’s amazing music, spectacularly dressed in stunningly designed costumes.

Rediscover passion and romance as

you watch exquisite dancing to the best love songs of our time.

The multi-award winning Marianna Ensemble is frequently featured in ABC classic FM live and recorded broadcasts. They perform regularly at major Australian jazz and world music festivals, as well as major jazz and classical venues.

Maria Okunev (voice/piano/ guitar), was the Director of Music with the Australian Youth Choir between 2004 and 2008 and is a recording artist with the ABC. She has been a finalist of numerous national opera awards and a winner of the Mietta award and has starred in several principal operatic roles in Australia and overseas.

Anna Okunev (violin), is considered one of the most versatile violinists in Australia, she has performed nationally and internationally with some of the world’s greatest contemporary and classical acts.

Blake Keep (guitar),has toured with some of the major jazz/world musicians including Lulo Reinhardt,

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

44 Nepean News 23 May 2013 Issue 100

Secure 2 holidays with a $60 deposit (this entitles you to 2x4 nights or 8 nights) and receive a third deposit free, then you can enjoy an even longer holiday or give one away.

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

nepean history

35

1813: The Four Sumpter Horses of Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson

...Continued from 4th July, 2013....

by John Low

DESCENDING Mount York (May 29) they used a hoe to cut a small trench to prevent the horses from slipping, but even so “the descent was so steep, that the horses could but just keep their footing without a load, so that, for some way, the party were obliged to carry the packages themselves.” (Blaxland 1823, p. 74) On the return ascent of Mount York (June 2) they again had to carry the horses’ loads for part of the way and later, towards the end of the return journey (June 4), “one of them fell this day with its load quite exhausted and was with difficulty got on after putting its load on the other horses” (Blaxland 1813, p. 11).

On only one occasion did they actually lose a horse. It got away in the night (May 16) and fortunately they found it again the next morning “about a mile and a half back” (Blaxland 1813, p. 4).

The most serious and regular problem was lack of feed and water.

Good grass was generally difficult to procure on the mountains, reported Blaxland, the horses surviving on “coarse swamp grass or rush [as] nothing else could be got for them” (Blaxland 1813, p. 5).

“It was”, confirmed Wentworth, “the scanty fare which these swamps afford that enabled our horses to exist.” (Wentworth 1813, p. 112) Where grass and rush was available it had to be cut and loaded on the horses for later use.

Occasionally only enough water could be found for the men and the horses went without.

Perhaps the decision, unlike the majority of earlier expeditions, to go out in the cooler months was made not only with the men in mind, for there is little doubt that the horses would have fared very badly in the hot, dry months (Brownscombe 2004, p. 223).

By the time they got the horses down Mount York “they were getting into miserable condition” (Blaxland 1813, p. 9).

Soon, however, they passed into “open meadow land clear of trees, covered with grass two and three feet high” and “encamped on the bank of fine stream of water to rest themselves and to refresh their horses” (Blaxland 1813, p. 10).

Feed for horses continued to be a problem even after the road was

built and had to be carried until inns offering baiting facilities began to appear in the 1820s and 1830s.

It is interesting that many of the feed and water locations identified in 1813 eventually became regular stopping places for stock, then as locations for inns and eventually towns.

Springwood, Lawson (‘Christmas Swamp’) and Wentworth Falls, for example, can trace their stories in this way.

So, back to the question posed at the beginning – a wise innovation or a silly mistake?

It seems to me that the inclusion of sumpter horses to carry the provisions and equipment was a carefully planned one made in conjunction with the strategy of tracking along the ridge and that their presence was also important in demonstrating the practicality of moving livestock along the route the expedition travelled.

The horses certainly experienced difficulties but they did cope and, despite all the problems, all four returned safely, proving the quality of locally bred horses and their ability to survive in inhospitable terrain.

As suggested by Favenc, this was the horse’s first real test in inland exploration and did in a sense begin what he termed “a new phase of exploration” (Favenc 1888, Ch. 2).

George Evans, sent out by Governor Macquarie to confirm and survey the newly discovered route later that year, saw no reason not to follow Blaxland’s example and also included horses in his party.

After the road was built, Bathurst established and exploration extended further inland, horses became a common component of exploratory expeditions.

John Oxley in his exploration of the Lachlan River in 1817 took 13 horses, while explorers like Parr, Howe and Gregory Blaxland’s nephew John who later (1817-1824) explored the Northern Blue Mountains also made use of horses. (Macqueen 2004) When Melbourne folk were confronted with the extraordinary sight of Burke & Wills leaving that city in 1860 with 28 horses and 24 camels, horses (and other baggage animals) were well and truly taking “their share of sacrificing their lives in the cause” (Favenc 1888, Ch. 2).

Cremation Celebration Services Dignified Burials RSL Services Memorial Services

“Now offering Pre-Paid Funeral Plans” Michelle Latham (JP) 1300 HEVNLY (1300 438 659) P: (02) 9623 6656 • M: 0418 250 242 E: michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au W: www.heavenlycelebrations.com.au Office: 196 Queen Street, St Marys NSW 2760 (Directly opposite St Marys Library)

Nepean News 20 June 2013 Issue 102

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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Nepean News 4 July 2013 Issue 103

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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real estate

40 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

UNLOCK YOUR FUTURE

INVESTMENTS

With Josh Vrsaljko

Purchasing off the plan WHEN it comes time to look at purchasing a property, whether it is owner occupier or for an investment, buying off the plan has many advantages. Buying off the plan is when you enter into a contract to purchase a property prior to the completion or start of construction of the property.

This can often seem daunting to home buyers, as there is no finished product for inspection it becomes harder to get a feel for the home. As with all property investing, knowing the market and doing your research is key. Research the development, the developers and the builder. In most cases, builders who sell property off the plan will have show homes and or colour rooms where you can view the quality of the products and finishes on offer.

Don’t let the fact that you can’t touch or feel your property turn you off. The benefits of purchasing property off the plan heavily outweigh the disadvantages. While all of the

Do you have time to compare over 30 lenders?

Let us do it for you!

OUR SERVICES ARE AT NO COST TO YOU! Specialising in: • First Home Buyers • Investment Properties • Self-employed - “Low Doc” Loans • Credit Impaired • Debt Consolidation

STEPHEN BEARD

7 DAYS A WEEK

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Ph: 4739 4500 Mob: 0403 166 207 E: beards@selectgrp.com.au

advantages may not apply to you, these are some of the major benefits.

Price – There are significant price savings when purchasing off the plan. When developers release the land to the market, their prices are often lower to encourage quick sales.

Builders often buy mass blocks in the development at the lower prices, in the event that capital growth will allow them to sell their products a lot cheaper when it comes to time of registration.

Tax Benefits – As with all investment property purchases, there are significant tax benefits available.

Tax depreciation is much greater.

The newer the property, the greater the benefits. Buying off the plan maximises your tax deductions. Most builders selling property off the plan will supply depreciation schedules with their properties.

Equity – prolonged settlement on off the plan purchases means you can easily earn equity on your home.

Equity is the difference between what

you paid for your property and what it is worth. If you purchase a property off the plan valued at $420,000 and the value on completion is $500,000 you have an instant $80,000 in equity.

Time – depending on your individual contract, you will need to put down a small deposit and not have to pay the balance until completion.

This allows you more time to save for a bigger deposit reducing your mortgage amount and repayments in the long run. Having this extra time for the construction of your property allows investors time to organise tenants and allows owner occupiers to sell their existing property.

Flexibility – A great benefit to purchasing off the plan is that you can often choose from everything available in the development, things such as position and aspect. A wider choice means greater opportunity.

You may be able to choose from floor plans and external designs and choose from a range of high quality finishes to make the property more appealing

to potential tenants. These things can offer you better capital growth and maximise rental yields.

Buying a property that has not yet been built may seem a little risky, but it can be a great way to secure a property, possibly at a lower cost. When you are purchasing off the plan, the following things will ensure you’re off the plan purchase is a smooth ride: • Purchase from a reputable builder, look at other projects they’ve built. Make sure you have a clear and well defined list of all fixtures and fittings and finishes. eg. Carpets, light fittings, kitchen surfaces, appliances etc. Look for fixed price contracts • Research the market conditions and speak to an expert to determine the property prices.

• Research the developer • Carefully review the contract with a legal professional.

As always with property investing, you can avoid the pitfalls by reviewing your property selection criteria and doing your research.

TAX TIPS SO YOU CAN PAY LESS With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

HAPPY new Financial Year to all! So it’s that great time of the year when we have to get ready to do our tax returns. Here are some great tax tips courtesy of Select Alexander, Chartered Accountants.

A good strategy to reduce tax payable is normally to accelerate any income tax deductions into the current income year, which will reduce overall taxable income in the current year.

The tax rates for resident individual taxpayers for the 2012/13 income year are as follows (note that the tax rates will remain the same in the 2013/14 income year): Income threshold Tax payable 0 – $18,200 Nil $18,201-$37,000 19% of excess over $18,200 $37,001-$80,000 $3,572 + 32.5% of excess over $37,000 $80,001-$180,000 $17,547 + 37% of excess over $80,000 $180,001 and over $54,547 + 45% of excess over $180,000 Note: The Medicare levy of 1.5% generally applies in addition to these rates.

Common work-related claims made by individuals

The following outlines common types of deductible expenses claimed by individual taxpayers, such as employees and rental property owners, plus some strategies that can be adopted to increase deductions for the 2012/13 income year.

1. Depreciable plant, etc. costing $300 or less Some purchases you may consider include: fax machines, books and trade journals, briefcases/luggage or suitcases, calculators, electronic organisers, electronic tablets, software, stationery, tools of trade.

2. Clothing expenses Purchase or pay for work-related clothing expenses prior to the end of the income year, such as: • compulsory (or non-compulsory and registered) uniforms, and occupation specific and protective clothing; • other expenses associated with such work-related clothing, such as dry cleaning, laundry and repair expenses.

3. Self education expenses Consider pre-paying the following self education items before the end of the income year: • course fees (but not HECSHELP fees), student union fees, and tutorial fees; • interest on borrowings used to pay for any deductible self education expenses.

Also bring forward purchases of stationery and text books (i.e., those which are not required to be depreciated).

4. Other work-related expenses Employees can prepay any of the following expenses prior to 1 July 2013: • union fees; • ubscriptions to trade, professional or business associations; • magazine and newspaper subscriptions; • seminars and conferences; • income protection insurance (excluding death and total/permanent disability).

Note: When prepaying any of the expenses above before 1 July 2013, ensure that any services being paid for are to be provided within a 12 month period that ends before 1 July 2014. Otherwise, the deductions must generally be claimed over the period of the prepayment.

If you think doing your tax return is too hard, then like me you should contact the helpful staff at Select Alexander who can ensure you only pay the tax that is required. You can contact them on 9680 3311.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

16 SOLD 44 | Nepean News 1 November 2012 Issue 86

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sport

Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

Amy gets our vote

By Greg Martin

AS the infamous Tammany Hall leader, William “Boss” Tweed would say, “vote early and vote often”.

Voting in the second round of the Big League Magazine Cheerleader of the Year award commence today (July 18) and continue until next Thursday, July 25.

Vote early, late and often for the Phantastic Pantherette, Amy Zahra, who goes one-on-one with a Roosters cheerleader in one of eight second round ‘matches’ to determine the eight finalists.

The 21-year-old North Richmond beauty was is in her current position following two earlier judgements from Big League officials and then the voting public.

Photos of every club cheerleader in the National Rugby League were sent to Big League Magazine some very lucky stiffs there were given the task of selecting two representatives from each club to go into round 1 voting.

Amy and a fellow Pantherette got the nod from the judges and then last week the majority of voters plumped for Amy over Rebecca in round 1 which determined each club’s sole representative in the latter part of the competition.

Have a gander at the accompanying photo and tell us if Amy Zahra hasn’t the necessary attributes to become Big League Magazine Cheerleader of the Year!

Amy is proud of the job she and her fellow Pantherettes do in adding glamour to the excitement of a day at the footy.

Nepean News

However there’s much more to this young lady than what meets the eye!

She has the brains to go with the beauty.

Amy is a quality assurance officer with Hollard Financial Services and is charged with creating, implementing and managing her company’s quality control process.

Amy “loves her job” but says “it would be a dream come true” if she could make a career of dancing professionally.

“I have been dancing since I was eight and just love it,” Amy said.

“I am really into hip-hop, Funk and jazz and those movements and steps have helped me with my dance routines as a Pantherette.”

Amy says she was persuaded to audition for the 2013 Panthettes squad by a friend and former member of the troupe, Rebecca Owen.

“So last January another friend, Caitlin Vogelzang and I auditioned and both of us were selected as members of the squad,” she said.

“We just love the whole experience – the training, the performances, the appreciative fans at the games and of course watching the Panthers play up- close!”

You can vote for Amy by texting her name to 19 99 22 20 but all voting details can be found on the back page of Big League Magazine.

Get in early and get in often!

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Teams fly as semis are nigh

By Noel Rowsell

LIFE has suddenly become even more interesting in the 2013 Waratah Championship League (WCL) basketball competition.

The number of rounds left this season is obviously decreasing each week but conversely, the number of teams still in contention for the playoffs has begun to swell.

The particular teams headed for the playoffs seemed almost a formality just a scant few weeks back but shock results and late-season form reversals has seen a belated rush to the top, although the first three positions appear to have been settled.

Manly Warringah (18 wins -1 loss), Sydney City (15-4) and Northern Suburbs (14-5) all appear safe, leaving six teams - Central Coast (10-9), Hornsby (10-9), Penrith (10-8), Hills District (10-9), Newcastle (9-10) and Bankstown (9-8) - all chasing the remaining three spots.

Illawarra (7-11) had also been rough outsiders prior to last weekend but a loss to Hills District has probably ended their campaign.

That factor will be immediately put to the test this Saturday, when Penrith host Illawarra in round 17 of the WCL competition.

Penrith’s debutant women’s team is not in playoff contention but almost toppled the undefeated competition-leading Spiders last weekend.

Sean Albert stands tall to launch a field goal attempt over a Hornsby opponent.

That game was yet another promising result for the Panthers, who can claim a victory over the Hills District Hornets and a solid performance against the Bankstown Bruins as some of this season’s highlights.

This week’s question is whether the young Panthers can find such inspiration again, in order to upstage third-placed Illawarra on Saturday.

Hornsby (15-0), Bankstown (13-2), Illawarra (11-4), Hills District (11-5) and Northern Suburbs (10-6) all appear on track for the playoffs in the women’s division, leaving Sydney City (9-7) and Newcastle (8-7) fighting for the sixth and final spot.

Saturday’s games are at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC) Herbert Street, Cambridge Park - women take to the court at 3pm followed by the men at 5pm.

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43 Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

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WITH H MARK GEYER

I dips me lid to Lidds IT’S a fine thing seeing a former teammate doing special things away from the footy field.

Glen Liddiard would be the first to tell you his full potential in rugby league was far from reached.

What looked like becoming an illustrious career began as a 16 year old when he played first grade with Oldham in England alongside his older brother, David.

Then he was a rookie phenom with Parra but his career petered out in 1995 when he appeared in the last of his 69 first grade games with the South Queensland Crushers.

But “Lidds” has reinvented himself big-time. For the past couple of seasons he has been the Indigenous welfare worker with the Penrith Panthers, helping young indigenous lads from all over the country settle into their surroundings without the added burden of home sickness.

His work has gone pretty much unnoticed and I suppose that’s the way he wants it, but it cannot be underestimated just how profound an affect he has had.

The latest case-in-point is young James Roberts. Roberts, who is the nephew of ex-Panther and Rooster, Amos, was shown the door in the off-season by the Rabbitohs.

Phil Gould quickly snapped him up and with the help of the club, in particular Glen Liddiard, his life has been totally turned around.

So much so, in starring in the Panthers recent win over the Titans in Darwin where he picked up his first-ever first grade hat trick of tries.

Most aren’t given second chances in life, but now two blokes who have - Glen Liddiard and James Roberts are sharing the experience together.

Glen Liddiard’s mentorship has helped James Roberts get his life back on track and subsequently, his rugby league career. The 20-year-old, now happily back in the family fold, has starred for the Panthers in recent outings.

LAST Friday, as you do, I was sitting with a few mates chatting about the quality of pubs we have here in the city of Penrith.

A quick look at the definition of the word pub states as follows: “a place of business where alcoholic beverages are sold and drunk-short for public house”.

I think the definition has to change. It also now must include “where restauranttype food is available”.

Pubs have definitely changed over the years. In particular since July 1 2007 when smoking was banned in them.

What at first outraged licensees has now made them think of other ways to lure customers. Food being the main one.

I have eaten at every pub (and had a schooner or two as well) in the Penrith area in the past six years, and I’ve gotta say, the food they’re all dishing up is absolutely superb. And it has got to be!

What was once referred to as ‘pub grub’ has totally been revamped into food that would not be out of place in most fine eateries. My mates and I all had experiences and stories of sitting in the car with our schooner of coke in the beer garden or car park waiting for dad to come out from his “meeting” to take us home.

Pubs are now kid-friendly. Games rooms with the addition of cordoned-off areas have now made your local a place to take the whole family, even if you’re a teetotaller.

We have close to 180,000 people in this fair city, and I would dare hazard a guess and say that the majority have at least walked into a “public house” once or twice.

That figure may skyrocket when the locals start to realise just how good the “pub grub” has become. Local pubs have become so much more than a place for the blokes to hang out. These days everyone is welcome.

The next time you aren’t quite sure what to dish up for the family one night for dinner, consider heading to your local. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

“Reunite The Nation” Talk to me: www.facebook.com/wilcoxforlindsay or email: wilcoxforlindsay@gmail.com

Nepean News 18 8 July 2013 Issue 104

MG

on the mark

45 4

46

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Nepean News 18 July 2013 Issue 104

ON THE MAT THE Zone 5 Singles Finals were played over the weekend of July 16-17.

In the first round of the State Singles, Jeff Madden (Lithgow Workers/Blue Mountains) defeated Martin Byrnes (Mudgee/Central Tablelands) and Lee Stinson (Orange City/Western Districts), tossed Ken Haynes (Crookwell/Southern Tablelands).

Cliff Fay (Penrith/Nepean) and Gerard Beath (Cowra/Lachlan Valley) both had byes.

In the second round Lee Stinson beat Jeff Madden and Gerard Beath was a shade too good for Cliff Fay in a cliff (excuse the pun) hanger - 31-29.

The final was between Lee Stinson and Gerard Beath with Lee running out the eventual winner.

The Zone 5 President’s Reserve Singles is for players graded 5 or below.

The first round saw wins to Wayne Radburn (Millthorpe/Western Districts) over Ian Nelder (Canowindra/Lachlan Valley) and Ian Pender (Wallerawang/ Blue Mountains) over Darrin Elbourne (Portland/Central Tablelands). Graeme Tutt (Robertson Southern Tablelands) and Paul Golder (Kingswood/Nepean) both had byes.

The second round saw wins to Wayne Radburn over Ian Pender and Graeme Tutt over Paul Golder. The final between Wayne Radburn and Graeme Tutt was a hard-fought affair with Radburn coming out on top.

Zone 5 Senior Singles were played in conjunction with the other two categories. In the first round Maxwell Brus (Grenfell/Lachlan Valley) d Jim Parkins (Gulgong/Central Tablelands) and Bill Walton (Blacktown Workers/ Nepean) d Kevin Fitzpatrick (Wentworth Falls/Blue Mountains).

David Price (Camden/Southern Tablelands) and Bob Hamilton

With Col Crossingham

(Molong/Western Districts) both had byes.

The two matches in the second round saw wins to Bill Walton and Bob Hamilton, leaving them to fight out the final in which Hamilton was victorious.

MICK Anderson took out the Major Singles title at Austral Bowling Club by defeating Steve Wilcock in the final 31-14. Great work Mick and good luck in the District Champion of Club Champions!

THE Ambrose Maiden Shield was contested at Penrith Bowling Club on Sunday, July 7. It is a triples tournament played in the memory of Ambrose Maiden, a stalwart of the Penrith club and a huge supporter of junior bowls both at the club and in the Nepean District.

It is played over three games of 12 ends and the winner is the team with the most wins.

There were four prizes on the day and fourth place went to Jill McDonald, Carl Healey and John Harmer, third place to Matt Cooper, Joe Scott and Ted Sommerville, second place to Tom Holburn, Matt Schultz and Shane Clarke and the winners were Ben Pintaric, Gary Pearson and Lance Winsor.

AFTER numerous delays caused by weather, district commitments and numerous other intrusions ,St Marys RSL Bowlers were able to play their Men’s Major Pairs Final on Saturday and their Men’s Triples Final on Sunday.

In the Pairs Final Mal Cameron (skip) teamed up with (lead) Martin Baker to beat John “Spook” Davis (skip) and Martin “Spud)” Murphy (lead) 25-13.

On Sunday, Spook and Spud teamed up with Eddy Rijk to play their second final in two days. However, they once again ran into stiff opposition to be defeated once again by the team of Joe White, Jock Brown and Steve Swan 23-9.

Not a good weekend for Spud and Spook. Congratulations to all the winners.

Shane Clarke and 9-year-old Thomas Holburn who paired up to finish creditable runners-up in the Ambrose Maiden Shield.

THE Zone Pairs Finals were held at Campbellltown City Bowling Club last weekend. In the State Pairs a couple of young guns from Penrith BC, Troy Rodgers and Trent Whittingham were there representing Nepean District.

In the first round they defeated Mark Sheppard and Brian Judge from Lithgow Workers BC 28-13. In the second round they accounted for Mark Gorrie and Hilton Mobbs from Gulgong 30-18.

That put them into the final against Stephen Carr and Lee Stinson from Orange City BC. They held their own against the more experienced pair from

Orange, with Lee Stinson backing up after winning the Zone Singles title the weekend before.

After a hard-fought game the final score was a creditable 22-16 loss to our boys.

In the President’s Reserve Pairs, Nepean was represented by the local lads from Austral, Troy Smith and Alan Lowe, substituting for Ray Silverstone. They had a bye in the first round and defeated Tom Maher and Trevor Williams from the home club of Campbelltown City 22-13 in the second round.

In the final they were outclassed

by Mat Jeffries and Rob Walters from Portland 27-4.

Harry Buckley and John Phelps from Blacktown City BC flew the flag for Nepean in the Zone Senior Pairs.

They too had a bye in the first round and they beat Gerald Hennessey and Ken Sampson from Mudgee BC in the second round 22-18.

They played John Kelly and Ken Corfield from Bargo in the Southern Tablelands in the final and were victorious 22-15. They will now go on the represent Zone 5 at the Bowls NSW State titles at East Maitland in October.

ON a social note we had 48 travelling bowlers visited from Newcastle last weekend. There were bowlers from many clubs throughout the Newcastle area including Stockton, Water Board, Kahibah, Wallsend, Swansea and Rathmines to name a few.

Making them feel welcome we had bowlers from Penrith, St Marys RSL, Kingswood, Glenbrook Panthers, Richmond, Pitt Town, and Blacktown Workers.

Old friendships were renewed and new ones made and the camaraderie was fantastic.

Local rowers receive annual awards A LARGE crew of rowers, family members and friends packed into Nepean Rowing Club last Sunday for the annual presentation of awards.

Kate Murdoch was twice called to the dais to accept awards for the Maurie Reddan Presidents Trophy and the Callaghan Plumbing Trophy for Adaptive Rower of the Year.

A highlight of an entertaining afternoon was an address about the history of Nepean Rowing Club by legendary member, Bob Ausburn, who is leaving no stone unturned in unearthing the club’s history.

Read more about Bob Ausburn on our Legends of Nepean article on pages 16-17.

The award winners are: Maurie Reddan – Presidents

Trophy (For Highest Point Score 2013): Kate Murdoch.

Bruce Neale Award (Most Improved Rower 2013): Campbell Beer.

Lloyd Death Memorial Trophy (Coxswain of the Year): Campbell Beer.

Club Person of the Year 2013: The ‘Salter Family’.

Terry Basket Memorial Trophy (Novice of the Year 2013): Chanel Breeze.

Ralph Rylance Memorial Trophy (School Rower of the Year 2013): Joel Salter.

Towards 2016 Olympics Trophy 2013: Erik Ford.

Masters Trophy (Highest Point Score 2013): Pal Grady.

Visally-impaired rower, Kate Murdoch, accepts the Presidents Trophy from NRC president, John Campbell.

Callaghan Plumbing Trophy (Adaptive Rower of the Year 2013): Kate Murdoch.

Oarsome Award for Special

Achievement 2013: Tom McMahon and Joe McMahon.

The Masters Club Person of the Year 2013: Tina De Vries.

Ask Box Head Box Head is a vital part of the Storage King Penrith team and apparent knows everything. Did you know he has the record for the longest head spin and also invented the Greek alphabet. Do you have a question for Box Head? Then email it through to penrith@storageking.com.au and look out for it in the next issue of Nepean News.

QUESTION: Dear Box Head, How much space to I need to store my 2 bedroom home?

- Jerry ANSWER: Hi Jerry, Well lets see, if I use my inbuilt storage space calculator and divide the number books in your book shelf, by use by date of the milk in your fridge.

Then add amount of dusty unused golf clubs in your garage and… TA DA!!!.

You have your answer.

Which is a half garage unit of 3 metre by 3 metre. Unless of course you want to include your prized lama collection, in which case your might need a 4 metre by 4 metre unit.

But did you know, cold weather makes fingernails grow faster and people who read the word yawn or yawning begin to feel the urge to yawn.

Amazing.

Yours in Storage - Box Head.

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Thursday, 18 July 2013

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HARPO’S MARKS

L LITTLE wonder cr cricketers the likes oof DK Lillee and S Shane Warne have hheads like billiard balls (don’t let Warnie’s War hair-inserts fool you!).

What is this preoccupation with team-mates racing over and patting and tussling the hair of bowlers who take wickets?

Not just a quick pat on the head from 10 team-mates but fair-dinkum, full-on tussles, rubbing away as though they are trying to lure a genie out of a bottle.

Such is the rubbing on occasions, methinks some of these blokes should get a room!

Tell ya what, I’d hate to have 10 blokes touching my lovely curls who have spent the day spitting into their hands, scratching nether-regions and picking their noses.

It’s the same on the footy field – perhaps even more so.

Crikey, even when a player drops a pass or loses the ball in a tackle, team-mates race in from all over the field to give him a pat on the head or

caress his backside.

Again, get a room!

I was chatting with fellow Nepean news columnist, Mark Geyer, and even this very emotional man, thinks, the “love-making” has got out of hand.

“In my day, if you were close to a bloke who made a great tackle or scored a try, you would give him a pat on the back while others would call out ‘onya mate, wotta tackle’ or whatever,” MG said.

“What really gives me the sh--- is when a player makes a mistake and team-mates rush from all over to offer condolences accompanied with pats on the head or hugs.

“Bloody ridiculous!”

I WAS never really a fan of Ricky Ponting, main reason being his drunken antics as a young cricket on the world stage.

Criikey, he did a few things which would make a league player blush!

But over the years, my opinion of Ponting has mellowed as the man matured as both a player and citizen.

So I dips me lid to Ponting

following his final, memorable appearance in first class cricket at The Oval last week when he hit an unbeaten 169 for Surrey against Nottinghamshire.

Let’s just have a brief look at his career.

The 38-year-old played 168 Tests, 375 one-dayers and appeared in 289 first-class games.

His Test average was a remarkable 51.85 while in amassing a mammoth 24,150 first class runs, including 82 centuries, his average was even better – 55.90.

Ponting will play out the English one-day series with Surrey before heading to the West Indies to represent Antigua and Barbuda in the rich Caribbean Premier League hit and giggle (July 30-August 24).

He says he hopes to pursue a commentary career and develop business interests once he hangs up that well-worn bat.

HIGH MARKS: Ricky Ponting.

Thanks for the memories.

LOW MARKS: Patting on heads gets the pat here.