Nepean News 18 March 2022

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Friday, 18 March 2022

ISSUE 325

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hile mosquito bites are generally no more than a nuisance, they can transmit infection with mosquito borne viruses, such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus or Japanese encephalitis virus.

Pools of stagnant water create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. It only takes two to three weeks to produce large numbers of mature mosquitoes.

To avoid mosquito bites and prevent infection: • cover up while outside with loose, light-coloured clothing and covered footwear • avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk • apply insect repellent on exposed skin that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus • use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to help repel mosquitoes • cover openings such as windows and doors with insect screens • remove water-holding containers outside your house where mosquitoes can breed • protect rabbits with mosquito proof hutches and keeping indoors in early morning and evening • when camping ensure your tent has flyscreening in good condition.

The following tips may assist in minimising the chances of mosquitoes breeding around the home: • remove all water-holding rubbish from around the yard

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• regularly flush out pot-plant bases • keep guttering clear • mow lawns regularly and clear any areas of moist, tangled undergrowth • make sure openings of septic tanks and water tanks are covered and screened securely.

Mosquito trapping is conducted at various locations in Western Sydney during the breeding season by local Councils and testing is performed at the Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory at Westmead Hospital.

For more information please see the fact sheets https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/ factsheets/Pages/mosquito.aspx and https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/.../japanese_ encephalitis.aspx or contact the your local Environmental Health Officer on 4560 4444 or Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District on 4734 2022 or 1800 253 511.

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Mosquito alert

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

95B Station St, Penrith Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Editor: Photographer: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Greg Yanda 0425 232 043 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

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Celebrating seniors

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here’s an old saying that “behind every good man there’s a great woman” and I’d like to ride on the back of that line of thinking and also claim that “behind everything good there’s a really great senior.”

Our seniors are literally the backbone of this country. They’ve been there, done that and seen it all.

Younger generations, children and grandchildren are often surprised and bemused when they realise the seniors they know actually lived very exciting and colourful young lives long before they were even a thought!

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

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

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

They’ve lived through times that younger generations could never imagine – they’ve survived depressions when sometimes the family meal consisted of bread and dripping, they’ve lived without television, computers, mobile phones and facebook. As kids they often had to share beds, clothes and even bathtub water.

Yet they never complained. They rolled with the punches and came out smiling.

Seniors Festival Week is the time of year to celebrate all that is great about seniors.

If you’re not a senior, take some time to talk with one. Your mum, dad, grandparent, neighbour or someone at the club – and ask them about their life.

Chances are you’ll find some qualities that I desperately hope don’t disappear when their generation eventually does; like appreciation, consideration and respect.

Bless you seniors, for all you’ve endured and all you continue to contribute; you really are our brightest shining light in a changing society.

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One of the new operating theatres present in the new Nepean Hospital Clinical Tower.

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flurry of excitement filled the corridors of the new Nepean Hospital Clinical Tower as hundreds of local residents got an exclusive sneak peek of the new, world-class facilities at Open Day. Guided by the hospital’s incredibly talented team of subject matter experts, registered visitors explored some of the hospitals new purpose built departments including birthing, operating theatres, recovery and the Emergency Department.

First time parents, Katrina and Darren, whose baby’s expected due date aligns with the hospital’s opening were thrilled they may be one of the first couples whose baby is born at the new hospital.

“It’s amazing, the facilities look so good.

I haven’t seen anything quite like it,” says Katrina.

“I love how the focus isn’t just on the bed for labouring and birth, there’s just so many options.

I plan to spend a lot of time in the water during labour and the bath here is way better than anything I could have imagined, I haven’t seen anything like it before.”

Community input has been integral to the building’s design since the hospital’s redevelopment was announced in 2016.

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District

Chief Executive, Kay Hyman says the feedback from Open Day visitors confirmed the community feels the new hospital building is their hospital.

“There’s been huge amounts of consumer input into the design and we’re really proud that it’s received significant input from our communities,” says Mrs Hyman.

“To have this fantastic building built and handed over to us, it’s just an amazing feeling. After what’s felt like such a long time, and in some way no time at all, I have absolute confidence that the new facilities for our patients and staff will help to provide better care for the community.”

The $1 billion expansion and upgrade of Nepean Hospital as part of Stage 1 and 2 of the Nepean Redevelopment will bring about a new era of health care to the region that transforms the way community accesses care.

As one of the tallest hospital buildings in Australia, at 14 storeys, the Stage 1 Clinical Tower will include an emergency department, 18 birthing suites, a neonatal intensive care unit, 16 operating theatres, more than 200 additional beds and a rooftop helipad.

The new Clinical Tower is opening in stages from mid-2022 following a comprehensive commissioning process.

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Report potholes With all the recent rain, Penrith City Council is asking residents to report any potholes they may notice through Council’s online service portal my.penrith. city.

Pictured is one that was reported on Friday last week. Once notified, Council closed the lane and investigated the cause of the collapse.

As part of our Essential Public Asset Reconstruction Works, the sinkhole was excavated to remove any loose material, then backfilled and compacted with the road surface reinstated. Future works will be conducted in the coming months to replace the stormwater pipe underneath this section of the road.

The road is back to normal with all traffic control measures removed.

Thank you for continuing to report potholes at my.penrith.city

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

New Clinical Tower tour patioman

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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local news TAFE NSW delivers life-saving training to boost nursing numbers

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AFE NSW is playing a pivotal role in training the next generation of healthcare workers and providing life-saving training in Western Sydney to address a critical shortage of nurses.

The most recent Health Workforce Australia report showed demand for nurses significantly exceeds supply with a projected national shortfall of approximately 85,000 nurses by 2025.

In Western Sydney, the Quarter health and education precinct in Penrith alone is expected to create 6,000 jobs in the next 10 years and new nurses will be needed to meet that demand.

President of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association, Karen Booth, said COVID-19 has highlighted the crucial need for nurses in our communities and said TAFE NSW is key to meeting future workforce demand.

“Right now, we need nurses and healthcare workers who can hit the ground running when they graduate.

TAFE NSW has a track record of providing an excellent training ground for our new workers because of it’s practical, hands-on training,” Ms Booth said.

Ms Booth said finding the right people for the right jobs was an important factor in building a healthy and productive workforce.

“Nursing is a profession driven by passion and a sense of purpose, so it’s important we guide and support new nurses and healthcare workers into the roles they resonate with,” Ms Booth said.

“I have found that because TAFE NSW has industry-qualified teachers, they develop workers that are welltrained, and also provide career guidance so that students find their niche and enjoy successful, fulfilling careers.”

Diploma of Nursing student Tarnie Horner from Blaxland is currently studying a Diploma of Nursing at TAFE NSW Kingswood. The 22-year-old is studying for free under JobTrainer after COVID-19 left her out of work.

“TAFE NSW has been a great opportunity for me, especially with the government support. I was working in hospitality and had lost all my income, so JobTrainer allowed me to study without any financial strain,” Tarnie said.

“I had always wanted to do nursing as I come from a family of nurses. I love working with people and being able to help them in a time of need.

The TAFE NSW resources have been amazing. There are simulated wards and real-life equipment to learn with and the teachers have all worked in the field, so it absolutely prepares you for the job and transitioning straight into work.”

Health, Wellbeing and Community Services Head of Skills Team for Western Sydney, Anne Goonetilleke, said the Diploma of Nursing offers a pathway into nursing in just 18 months.

“Since the NSW Government invested in JobTrainer 12 months ago, more than 136,000 people have undertaken free training and that number is growing by the day,” Ms Goonetilleke said.

“TAFE NSW also has formalised agreements within the public and private health sector for students to complete work placements and seek employment opportunities. There has never been a better time to consider a

career in nursing.”

Explore hundreds of courses in nursing and healthcare at TAFE NSW. For more information visit www. tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Accommodation support for flood vicitims A new $285 million Temporary Housing Support Package will provide accommodation support to flood victims who have lost their homes to ensure people can access more immediate and medium term accommodation support.

The housing support package will have the capacity to assist around 25,000 households and will be focused on allowing people to move out of their emergency accommodation and find a more permanent place to call home. They will also have access to up to 16 weeks rental support, by the end of March.

The package will also fund on-site pods in rural areas to allow people to stay on their properties while they rebuild, and motorhomes and cabin accommodation to ensure there is flexible accommodation to meet peoples’ varying needs.

The housing package is part of the Commonwealth and NSW Governments’ latest assistance package, which is providing more than $551.7 million for flood-affected communities, including support to small businesses, primary producers, councils, individuals, and families

hard hit by the devastating floods.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said with thousands of people displaced and many homes effectively uninhabitable, getting people out of evacuation centers and hotels and into more stable accommodation is key to helping people start their long term recovery.

“This housing support package will help put a roof over the heads of the thousands of people who have lost their homes to help them get back on their feet as quickly as possible,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Rebuilding won’t be a quick process and that is why we are using a flexible approach to provide people with the help they need now and into the future so communities can rebuild the homes and businesses as quickly as possible.”

Since 22 February, 45 LGAs have been declared as disaster areas and are eligible for support through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Deputy Premier Paul Toole said the accommodation support was crucial to helping flood victims begin the long road to recovery.

“This is an incredibly distressing time for many and providing additional accommodation options for those who have lost everything will help to ease some of the burden,” Mr Toole said.

“We are also providing the ability for people to stay on their properties, if possible, so they are in more familiar surroundings while they take time to consider their options.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said the NSW response would continue to be tailored to community needs as the financial costs of the floods are assessed.

“As the situation on the ground continues to evolve, so does our response. We are working night and day to get assistance where it’s needed most,” Mr Kean said.

“This is why we are extending our critical small business and primary producer grants, as well as funding solutions to the temporary housing problem faced by so many, especially in the Northern Rivers.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said Service NSW was working quickly to establish the new grant package online, with extended trading

hours getting help to people faster.

“Service NSW will assist DCJ in ensuring this next round of assistance gets to those who need it the most and continue to be the place where people can go to get the support and advice they need to plan for the next stage of this long recovery process,” Mr Dominello said.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the NSW Government will continue to provide support to individuals, families, farmers and business owners.

“As flood waters recede, we are setting up Recovery Centres as onestop shops for people to access cleanup services, financial assistance, insurance and legal support, business support and mental health services,” Ms Cooke said.

“The destruction caused by the floodwaters will take weeks and months to clean up, and we will continue to stand side-by-side with our flood-affected communities in the Northern Rivers region.”· Please contact Service NSW on 13 77 88, visit www.nsw.gov.au/floods or speak to evacuation centre staff.

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has announced Dr Nhi Nguyen as the Penrith Local Woman of the Year.

“I congratulate Nhi on this well-deserved honour that acknowledges her hard work across our region” Stuart Ayres said.

Nhi has and continues to lead the intensive care unit at Nepean Hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic response. Nhi also played a significant role in designing the state-wide Covid-19 response that was deployed to hospitals across NSW. “She has been an inspirational leader of many health workers who have faced significant and ongoing challenges over the past 2 years.”

“Nhi is one of the most highly regarded and well respected Doctors not just in Nepean Blue Mountains LHD, but across NSW and I commend her on her unflagging passion.”

“Nhi’s energy and commitment to serving our community is to be commended and it is my privilege to acknowledge her with this award.”

“While this award is recognition of Nhi’s outstanding individual contribution to our community, it is also a recognition of the exceptional work done by our local LHD staff in response to the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Stuart Ayres.

The Local Woman of the Year Awards is an annual program which recognises and celebrates the support women give to their local communities across NSW. Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor congratulated the State’s Local Women of the Year Award recipients.

“These women are the backbone of their

communities, volunteering their time and energy to make a positive difference,” she said.

“I would like to acknowledge their significant efforts to support their local communities and thank them for all the amazing work they do.”

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The Local Woman of the Year Awards are one way the NSW Government celebrates the achievements of women as part of International Women’s Day on March 8 2022.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Dr Nhi Nguyen is Penrith’s local Woman of the Year

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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local news Local migrant women to benefit with the launch of new training program

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acquarie Community College is pleased to announce the launch of its SKILLS4You program, specially designed to train and support migrant women seeking careers in the care sector.

SKILLS4You is tailored to increase opportunities for migrant women to gain skills for life and work in Australia, increasing their participation in employment pathways and connecting them with others in their local communities.

The establishment of SKILLS4You aligns with the College’s ongoing commitment to creating and providing learning opportunities that create social impact. The launch comes at an extremely crucial time as the care sector continues to battle critical labour shortages across Aged Care, Disability Care, and Child Care.

Macquarie Community College CEO Theresa Collignon said she is proud to be launching a program that is so vital to groups across the Western Sydney community.

“Macquarie Community College has always set the standard for quality adult community education. We are committed to ensuring that all our participants feel welcome, respected and supported along their learning pathways. As we say at the College – we welcome all who want to climb the ladder of learning – and they can start from any rung.”

The SKILLS4You program involves increasing participant’s English language and literacy skills, including language for the world of work in caring careers, understanding their level of employment readiness for local workplaces, setting specific employment-related goals and working towards achieving them.

Olga Terfezine, a Sudan-born,

Individual support class

Italian-Ethiopian mother of four successfully completed her Certificate III in Individual Support at Macquarie Community College. She faced years of false starts and putting her dreams on the backburner thanks to an inability to find a suitable education pathway.

“For me, the course at Macquarie Community College was the absolute best available for someone with my experience and general industry understanding. I was able to complete it at a pace that suited me and I have been lucky enough to gain a job through an aged care work placement that was organised by the College.”

“Thanks to the program I undertook, I’m now working in the disability sector with children aged 6-10 with Autism. It’s extremely rewarding, and I love what I do,” Ms Terfezine said.

Sydwest CEO, Elfa Moraitakis said SydWest and Macquarie Community College had a long history working together to empower migrant women and meet community needs. The College have been a trusted part of

this community for decades.

“We are always looking for great staff to work in our services. It is great to think that our clients from a Culturally & Linguistically Diverse background in our aged care and home care services will be able to be cared for by bi-cultural & bilingual staff. When both clients and staff have lived experiences as migrants and understand the cultural nuances in care, there is a unique and special

bond that can result.”

Macquarie Community College Director, Sue Advani said supporting migrant women has been one of her life-time commitments and the reason she became involved with the College.

“I encourage community networks and local agencies to get in touch with Macquarie Community College about this program. Participation in SKILLS4You could really make a difference and help migrant women find suitable employment in key growth areas.”

Macquarie Community College is under contract with the NSW State Government as a Smart and Skilled and Adult Community Education (ACE) provider, meaning the program is fee-free for eligible students. The College was also recently recognised by the NSW Department of Education as a High Performing Provider for Smart & Skilled.

Information sessions for potential applicants are being held on Wednesday 2nd and 9th March, with the first official class set to take place on Tuesday 22nd March. The information sessions will explore program requirements, employment outcomes and potential future pathways.

MCC_CEO Theresa Collignon and Michelle Rowland visiting prac room

One disaster after another, are you coping?

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, angry or upset after experiencing the trauma and loss caused by a disaster.

You should seek professional support if you need it, but there are a few things you can do each day to help you cope and process your emotions: • Give yourself time to process and accept what has happened, and remember that there is no pressure to feel better right away • Ask for support from people you love and trust, as they can provide a listening ear or help you with daily tasks that may seem too hard to manage as you navigate your emotions • Avoid spending lots of time alone - being around other

people after a traumatic experience will mean you’re less likely to experience poor mental health • Re-create a routine to help you build control over your personal situation • Take care of your physical safety by being careful around the home, while driving, and by avoiding alcohol or drug use as people are more accident prone after a traumatic event • Avoid an overload of media around the event as this can re-traumatise you Remember that you are not alone, and there is always support available if you need it: www.health.nsw.gov.au/ mentalhealthhelp

Changed traffic conditions on Badgerys Creek Road, Bringelly Road users are advised of changed traffic conditions over two weekends with the closure of Badgerys Creek Road, Bringelly. Detours will be in place from 6pm on Friday 18 March to 7am on Monday 21 March and 6pm on Friday 25 March to 7am on Monday 28 March.

The closures will allow for the safe relocation of utilities on Badgerys Creek Road, Bringelly.

Detours will be in place for motorists via Elizabeth Drive and The Northern

Road, Bringelly. Access for local residents and businesses will be maintained at all times during the closure.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.

Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience during this time.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

local news

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enrith City Council is planting trees along the nature strips of several streets, parks, and reserves over the coming months as part of Council’s Cooling the City strategy.

This work will see 5,000 trees planted in suburbs Council has identified as having fewer trees and with communities that may be vulnerable during periods of extreme heat. The suburbs in the project include Erskine Park, St Clair, Colyton, North St Marys, and Oxley Park.

By planting trees along nature strips in these locations, Council is providing additional shade for streets which may help cool homes and recreation spaces so community members can comfortably engage in outdoor activities over the summer period.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen praised the street tree planting and encouraged residents to get involved and learn more about the benefits of tree planting, with opportunities listed on Council’s Have Your Say page.

“The street tree planting is a continuation of work Council has previously conducted, including our successful Cooling the City Masterclass and heat sensor work

Penrith Deputy Mayor John Thain at a street tree planting location in Erskine Park.

with the University of Western Sydney,” Cr Hitchen said.

“We’ve heard from many residents about their experiences with extreme heat and identified from these conversations that they felt substantial tree cover was much cooler and made outdoor recreation more enjoyable.

“Residents will have the opportunity to attend event days where they can learn more about the species being planted in the area, the benefits of tree planting, and ways that they can get involved and help these trees thrive,” she said.

The Department of Planning and Environment’s Executive Director, Green & Resilient Places, Steve Hartley, said the NSW Government was committed to making Greater Sydney a cooler and greener place for everyone.

“One of the many ways we are working to cool our suburbs down all year round is through the Greening our City grant program that is proudly funded by the NSW Government.

“All trees planted count towards the Premier’s Priority to deliver one million new trees across Greater

Sydney by the end of 2022,” Mr Hartley said.

With this funding assistance, Penrith Council is achieving its vision of a greener, more liveable city in line with its existing Cooling the City strategy.

Council will be maintaining these trees during the first 12 months of establishment and will encourage residents to learn how they can help these trees thrive at engagement days and via the Greening our City’s Have Your Say page.

Residents can keep up to date with the street planting project and provide feedback by following the Greening our City Have Your Say page at yoursaypenrith.com.au/ GreeningOurCity Find out more about Penrith Council’s Cooling the City strategy at penrith.city/coolingthecity Find out more about the Department’s Greening our City at www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/premierspriorities/greening-our-city The project is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Greening our City grant. With this funding assistance, Penrith Council is achieving its vision of a greener, more liveable City in line with its existing Cooling the City Strategy.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Cooling the streets with tree planting

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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local news

Report shows local churches’ work is good news

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ocal churches across Penrith and Mt Druitt don’t just preach about the ‘good news’ of their faith during Sunday services; they’re seeking to live it out in the wider community every day of the week.

That’s the message coming out of a recent report into the work of churches and Christian organisations to serve those in need across the region.

The NAYBA Impact Audit, conducted in recent months by NAYBA Australia in partnership with One Church Penrith, puts facts and figures to the community service efforts of the local faith community.

The final audit report was launched at an event called “Serving Our City” Monday 14th March at Penrith Baptist Church, and presented to the newly elected Mayor of Penrith, Tricia

Hitchen. It includes the following results: • Almost $8.5 million in social impact value to the City of Penrith & Mt Druitt 2770 each year • Over 140,000 people in need served in the past 12 months – more than half the population of Penrith & Mt Druitt combined • 103 community service activities being delivered by churches and Christian organisations, addressing 14 of the greatest social needs in the region. NRL great, David Simmons, now a minister at Emu Plains Anglican Church and the Penrith Panthers Club Chaplain added his voice to the report: “I’ve been around footy clubs for almost half my life. I know the success of the great clubs wouldn’t be possible without those working behind the scenes. It’s the

Fabulous females

By KeRRIE DAVIES

Penrith CBD Corporation presented another spectacular local event last week - the International Women’s Day breakfast. With the message this year being #break the bias, the event was jam packed with local residents, business people and our elected representatives.

Held at Penrith RSL, the special guests were Tess Salmon, General Manager - External Affairs and Communication Western Sydney Airport, Joanna Schrumpf, Part Owner & Manager Director - Astina Group,

Debbie O’Connor, Creative Director of White River Design and CEO of The Creative Fringe and Bobbie Nicholls Area Manager - Officeworks.

We also heard from some of our elected representatives; Senator Marise Payne, Mayor Tricia Hitchen and MPs Stuart Ayres and Melissa McIntosh.

Proceeds from the event will go toward the Empowering Youth Day in conjunction with PCYC Penrith.

A very special thank you to sponsors Sharon Mudiman, Bespoke Realty, Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security, Kate Rafton, Rafton Family Lawyers and National Australia Bank.

same with churches and faith-based organisations. They work hard behind the scenes in our community, doing it out of love for God and a desire for the good of all people.”

Also in attendance at the event on Monday were Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa, and Prue Car MP, Member for Londonderry, together with over 70 faith leaders from Western Sydney and beyond.

Following the official proceedings, faith leaders spent the morning discussing the results of the report as they seek to find even better ways to work in unity with one another, collaborate with government and other sectors, and be a blessing to the community.

Mark Chapple, Baptist minister and President of One Church Penrith,

was impressed the event: “The NAYBA Impact Audit has been an extraordinary way of bringing together all of the churches and Christian organisations in Penrith and Mt Druitt. Now we have the exciting job of working out how we can be an even greater source of hope, light and love for those beyond the four walls of our buildings.”

This sentiment is echoed by Nic Mackay, National Director of NAYBA Australia, who helped to oversee the audit process. Said Mackay: “Something special is happening in Penrith and Mt Druitt, as church leaders and ordinary Christians unite to serve their city. I believe this is just the beginning of the transformation we will see in the coming years across the region, and particularly in the lives of those in need.”

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NSW Government Community Service Award - Sandy Golder

any families in the community that have children with Autism or other disabilities, know all too well how caring for these children takes a toll on the wider family. Family relationships and the mental health of mums and dads can be impacted. Despite these challenges, Sandy Lee-Anne Golder has found a way to use her energy to make a positive change in the lives of other families facing the same challenges.

Determined to see marriages remain intact, Mums maintain their mental, physical and emotional health, Sandy and her friend Stephanie founded Thrive Tribe and Co. Thrive Tribe and Co is an online and in person community that welcomes mums caring for children with disabilities to come together without judgement, receive support and share ideas.

Through their Facebook site, the platform allows the community to provide a constant source of support to each other. In addition, the organisation offers day programs with experts and wellbeing consultants to help work through the experiences the community goes through on a daily basis. They also host picnic days where whole families come together to build relationships, share stories, ideas and solutions. Camps are also organised, just for mums to get respite, information and to have fun so that they can be reinvigorated for when they return home. Thrive Tribe & Co are growing significantly in their reach and followers and women who register for their camps.

The story of Sandy Golder is one of true inspiration.

Through determination, she has prevailed despite the challenges life has thrown her way. Meeting her moment with passion in the service of others. Sandy is truly worthy of being awarded the NSW Government Community Service Award.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Prevailing despite the challenge

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Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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local news

The Royce Flood Relief Food and Clothing Hamper Drive

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ichelle Wolfe from The Royce put out a call for anyone wanting to donate some items that would help those who were impacted by the recent floods, and as you can see the residents were only to happy to assist!

“We have been fortunate enough to not be affected by the floods but as you know many in our community have not been as lucky,” Michelle’s appeal stated.

“The Royce will be holding a Flood Relief food and clothing hamper drive to give back to the beautiful community we live in and assist those who have been impacted. These items will be donated directly to a local charity called WestCare,” she explained, adding that there would be a few plastic containers in concierge where people could place their donations.

“WestCare will distribute the items we collate to those who need it the most, on behalf of us all.

Items that would be of most use: - New clothing including socks and underwear for babies, children, and adult’s- male or female.

- Food: non-perishable items, Dry goods groceries.

For Example: tin soups, pasta, pasta sauces, tuna, coffee, long life milk - Toiletries for male/ female - Nappies - Baby formula - New Homewares such as kettles, cookware, kitchen utensils, any home wares that could assist people who have lost everything.”

WestCare picked up the items from The Royce, which consisted of the items that Michelle said were needed.

Well done to all in The Royce community!

That mould and your health T

hat’s not dirt, that’s mould!

After all the heavy rain and flooding we’ve had recently you may find mould in your home.

Mould is a type of fungi that can be found almost everywhere.

There are many different types of mould that can make you sick.

You might be able to see mould, but you may also have mould if: • your home has been flooded • there is water damage • there are strong, musty smells.

To prevent mould growing after flooding, clean up and dry out the house as fast as possible (within 48 hours).

What does mould look like?

It is not easy to know what mould looks like. It can look like a stain, smudge or small spots. The most common moulds are black, green or white. However, mould can be many other colours from grey to orange to brown.

How does mould affect you?

Mould can cause you to have a blocked nose, cough, wheeze, respiratory infection, itchy eyes and skin.

For people with asthma, breathing in mould spores may cause an asthma attack. Most people will not be affected by mould.

If you or your family get sick after

contact with mould, speak to your doctor. In the case of an emergency, phone 000.

What can I do if I have mould in my home?

If you decide to remove mould yourself, make sure there is good ventilation – open windows where possible - and wear protective clothing such as a shower cap, rubber gloves, eye protection, suitable shoes and a P1

or P2 face mask (available from your hardware store).

• To clean mouldy surfaces, use mild detergent or vinegar mixed with water (4-parts vinegar to 1-part water).

• Mould that is hard to remove, use bleach mixed with water (250mls of bleach in 4 litres of water). Open your windows if possible.

• Carpet may need to be professionally cleaned or replaced

When cleaning mould the following people should not be nearby: • children under 12 years • pregnant women • people over 65 years • those with weakened immune systems, allergies, severe asthma or lung diseases.

Want to know more?

In NSW call 1300 066 055 to talk to your local Public Health Unit.

local news

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith encouraged eligible local small businesses to apply for a grant through the NSW Government’s Community and Small Business CCTV Fund to help reduce crimes like malicious damage, break and enter and shoplifting.

The fund provides free CCTV packages up to $5,000 to eligible community groups and small businesses in Western and SouthWestern Sydney including Penrith.

Stuart Ayres said preventing and reducing crime is a priority and this program goes towards protecting businesses and assisting our police to catch and prosecute criminals.

“CCTV cameras send a strong message to would-be criminals that if you do the wrong thing, you will be caught and punished accordingly.”

All CCTV systems through the fund are installed by a pre-qualified CCTV supplier and are registered with the NSW Police.

Applications are open to: • small businesses with turnover of less than $10

million or less than 20 employees • incorporated not-for-profit community organisations.

For more information and to apply please visit: www.crimeprevention.nsw.gov.au/cctvfund

› Medicine Affordability The Australian Patients Association has joined the push by community pharmacists in urging Canberra to make prescription medicines more affordable for non-concession patients.

CEO of the Australian Patients Association Stephen Mason said that the issue of affordability of prescription medicines is an ongoing concern for many Australians.

“Our research has found that almost 36% of people believe that prescription medication is too expensive and 20% of people say it’s outside of their regular budget.

“So it comes as no surprise to us that quarter of adults without a concession card surveyed by the Australian Pharmaceutical Guild say that they have struggled to afford their prescription medicines over the last three years and 13% have had to go without.

“With the cost of living soaring and the co-payment up to $42.50 as of 1 January this year, we are concerned that patients are being forced to choose between filling their scripts and feeding their families.

“Worse population health outcomes will increase the burden on the healthcare and hospital system if patients are forced to choose between prescription medicines and other essential items as the cost of living rises.

“As the peak body representing the interests of patients in the healthcare system, we are joining community pharmacists in urging Canberra to make healthcare more affordable.” www.affordablemedicines.com.au

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Apply now for free cctv to protect your small business

13

Converting your old video cassette tapes into digital files saved on a USB, DVD or the cloud is the best way to preserve and share your cherished memories.

Not only does it keep the memories alive for years to come, it also saves space in your home and helps reduce clutter, while giving you the option to share the memories with people in emails, texts or even Facebook posts. At ADVS we can turn your old videos, tapes, photographs, and records into digital files so that they can last for generations!

For years we recorded all our memories, weddings, birthdays and important celebrations on tape. We hoped that they would last forever.

Alas this is not the case unfortunately! Tapes and cassettes weren’t meant to last forever, mould, mildew, fading, shedding and physical damage risks degrading your tapes and videos.

Your treasured memories could be lost forever if they’re not converted and saved as a digital file!

Even if you’re doing a good job of looking after your tapes and cassettes they still could be at risk due to the harsh and erratic weather of Western Sydney. If you’re evacuating a fires, floods or storms you’ll often not think to bring your collection of video memories with you – but if they’re backed up into the cloud or on an external hard drive, you can easily escape with your memories safe.

At ADVS all your media needs are taken care of! Our expertise and premium technology ensure that your media has never looked better!

We have so far served over 250 customers locally and have processed over 4000 different types of media and counting!

We offer free pickup and delivery of your tapes so there’s no need to stress!

Give us a call or visit us at our website and one of our technicians will be in touch ASAP. Visit: www.advssydney.com.au Or call us on: 1300 462 248 ADVS. Bringing Memories to Life!

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

14

Celebrating SENIORS Retirement Living at The Royce Do as little or much as you like, it’s your choice.

T

he Royce is a vibrant, retirement community with an abundance of amenities including; Café Royce, an artisan cafe serving delicious, healthy meals and snacks, all made from tasty fresh ingredients and HWA Studio at The Royce, your very own commercial hair and beauty salon. Beautifully landscaped gardens are a standout feature of our retirement living community, with a wonderful array of flowering plants to awaken your senses.

Retire your way at The Royce. Do as little or as much as you want within a welcoming community. Wind down in the gymnasium, take a cooking class or simply enjoy a BBQ in one of the three communal courtyards or relax with family and friends from the comfort of your spacious balcony or terrace.

Living at The Royce means coming home every day to a warm, welcoming and fun-loving community with great facilities and a broad range of activities. To make life as easy as possible you’ll have access to a dedicated concierge (7 days per

Debbie and Norman Lincoln

The Royce residents

week), lock and leave mail and parcel services, a dry-cleaning service, use of The Royce car and a handyman to help with odd jobs in your apartment.

At The Royce we understand the deep and valuable connection people have with their pets. Animals are wonderful companions, not to

www.theroyce.com.au

mention very therapeutic which is why we welcome them as members of The Royce community.

Living at The Royce gives you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. To live life exactly the way you want to.

“The Royce feels like a dream

come true,” said residents Debbie and Norman Lincoln. “It is such a beautiful community in a great location, with amazing staff who are always happy, smiling and willing to help without question.”Call The Royce today for more information on 4744 6000.

Celebrating SENIORS

15

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith is encouraging locals in Penrith to nominate a senior for a 2022 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Award.

Nominations are now open for the awards program which celebrates the work and achievements of seniors in the community.

“Seniors are invaluable to Penrith as volunteers, carers and role models – even more so during such a challenging year,” Stuart Ayres said.

“If you know a senior who helps make our community diverse, inspiring and active, then I encourage you to nominate them for acknowledgement of their contribution.”

Winners of the Local Achievement Awards will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival which runs from 25 March – 3 April. The awards program are part of an exciting schedule of events across the state.

It is the largest festival for seniors in the Southern Hemisphere and enables older people to engage with each other, their community, services and supports.

Minister for Seniors, Mark Coure, said the festival and the awards highlight the vital role seniors play in the community.

“This annual festival is about celebrating the positive impact of older

Stuart Ayres MP with the 2021 Seniors Award Recipients

people in our families and society,” Mr Coure said.

“These initiatives also provide an important opportunity for seniors to participate in their communities in meaningful and engaging ways.”

It is one of many initiatives the NSW

Government promotes to support the state’s seniors in living happy, healthy and active lives.

“We will continue to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigmas by highlighting their continued efforts

in helping communities thrive,” Mr Coure added.

To nominate a senior or find further information on the program please call 02 4722 8660 for visit: www. stuartayres.com.au. Nominations close 5pm, Tuesday 22 March 2022.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Nominate a senior who is helping Penrith thrive

Celebrating SENIORS

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

16

Make 2022 a golden year with these exercise tips for seniors

R

egular physical activity isn’t just for young twenty-somethings working on their beach bods.

Being active most days, or preferably every day, is good for us at any age and it’s never too late to start – even in our golden years.

As you celebrate the beginning of 2020, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your daily activity goals for the year ahead.

As we get older we might find ourselves impacted by more aches and pains, health issues or by a fear of falls and injuries. But rather than being barriers to staying active, these are all reasons why exercise is so important to our health as we age, due to its role in keeping us strong, mobile and independent for longer.

If you’re a senior who would like to be more active and don’t know how, check out our list of exercise tips to get you motivated.

Firstly, how much physical activity should I be doing?

Being physically active is fundamental to ageing well.

Provided you are generally healthy and have no limiting health conditions, adults aged 65 or older should try to build up to at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most days or, ideally, every day. The key is to make moving a habit.

Your 30 minutes can be done all at once or broken into smaller increments, such as three 10-minute sessions per day. Of course, everyone has their limits, and it’s always best to start slowly.

If, currently, you are not physically active, start by

doing some exercise and gradually build up to the recommended amount. Remember, doing some physical activity is better than doing none.

Don’t forget to check with your doctor about suitable activities for you. If you’ve been inactive for a while, have a health problem, or are concerned about the safety of a new activity or being more active (e.g., doing something more vigorously), it can be helpful to receive some advice.

Why is exercise good for me – what will it do for my body as I age?

Physical activity is beneficial for seniors of all ages. It can make you feel better, is good for your mind and body and improves physical functioning.

Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of diseases like heart disease and stroke, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, some cancers and depression and dementia. It improves wellbeing, assists in weight management and can also improve bone health. In older adults, regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of falls and fall-related injury.

www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

18

Celebrating SENIORS It’s Zonta’s birthday! Seeking new members Tuesday 5th April 2022 Occasion: Zonta Club of Nepean Valley’s 29th Birthday Guest Speaker: Councillor Karen McKeown Place: Penrith Panthers Time: 6.30pm for 7pm Cost: $32 for a 2 course meal with tea/coffee RSVP: to rachelswong@hotmail.com by the 31st March

TOFS is an incorporated not for profit organisation, established in 2007 for retired or semi-retired men, that offer opportunities to explore Sydney and outer regional areas with men from all facets of life.

The purpose of TOFS is to promote and advance health, wellbeing, intellectual and cultural interests, combining varied outings and camaraderie.

Zonta Club of Nepean Valley

We seek new members for the local sub-group of Nepean/Blue Mountains, and a recruitment drive meeting will be held at the Penrith RSL Club on 14th April at 10am.

Contact details for anyone interested in: David Moore 0425 228 224 or email davmooreoz@bigpond.com

MEN You’re invited to lunch on us at The Shed When: 24th March and 7th & 21st April 2022 Where: St Clair & District Men’s Shed In the grounds of Mamre House - 181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills Time: 11.30am

EnQuiries: 0410 640 750

Proudly supported by Australia Post

Celebrating SENIORS

19

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith today joined Toby Chapman of Penrith Regional Galley to announce that seniors across Penrith are set to benefit from new programs through Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PPVA) and Penrith City Council (PCC) which are designed to keep them socially connected with others.

Stuart Ayres congratulated PPVA on receiving $17,172 and PCC on receiving $40,000 through the Reducing Social Isolation for Seniors Grants Program.

“Helping older people build lasting relationships shows we value their important place in our region as role models, carers and volunteers,” Stuart Ayres said.

“I’m proud our community has stepped up to promote activities and resources, which empower seniors to stay connected.”

PPVA will invite local seniors to meet together for their “Morning Makers” workshops that will be held on the first Saturday of each month at Penrith Regional Gallery.

Lead by local digital media artists, the collaborative and engaging workshops will incorporate everyday technologies, building digital literacy and digital art making on

Stuart Ayres MP, Volunteer - Judy and Toby Chapman

iPads. To book call 02 4735 1100.

PCC, in partnership with LEEP will deliver 10 Digital Literacy Mentoring Workshops for Isolated Seniors through community centres in 5 priority locations. LEEP mentors will work alongside individual seniors to develop strong relationships that will

extend beyond the life of the program.

Participants will gain skills and confidence in using digital devices to better connect with their local community, family and friends.

Minister for Seniors Mark Coure said 24 local councils and community groups have received a share in

$600,000 to run programs designed to reduce social isolation among seniors.

“Even without the challenges of COVID-19 – no one likes to be alone or feel disconnected from their community, especially not our seniors,” Mr Coure said.

“This funding is about helping create environments where people can come together, meet new people and, above all, enjoy themselves in a social environment.

“These programs are helping us achieve exactly that, whether it be helping seniors learn a new skill, connect with like-minded people or even rekindle their passion for a previous hobby,” he said.

Grants of up to $60,000 were on offer for NSW councils or organisations running communityfocused, meaningful activities. They must run until December 2022. The projects actively seek out socially isolated NSW residents aged 65 and older, and/or Aboriginal people aged 50 and over, and/or priority target groups.

For more information on the program and recipients, visit: www. facs.nsw.gov.au/inclusion/seniors/ reducing-social-isolation-grantprogram

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Penrith programs to keep seniors connected

Celebrating SENIORS

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

20

Veterans to converage on Penrith for Bowls with (health) benefits

A

n upcoming Veteran and Family Bowls Day will bring veterans from across Greater Western Sydney together in Penrith, with Invictus Australia, Bowls Australia and Penrith Bowling and Recreation Club uniting to promote the physical and mental health benefits associated with the sport of bowls.

Veterans of all ages, and their families, from across the region are being encouraged to attend the inclusive, free event, to be held at Penrith Bowling and Recreation Club on April 7th, following the success of previous events staged throughout last year in New South Wales.

Invictus Australia Engagement Specialist Rachel Kerrigan hoped many would converge on Penrith Bowling and Recreation Club for a fun evening of bowls, free food, laughs and the chance to form new relationships within the veteran community.

“Bowls is a really great sport for all ages and abilities, with regular competitions and social connections, on and off the green, and a perfect vehicle to help build physical and mental health among veterans and their wider families,” Kerrigan said.

“It’s not always the first sport that comes to mind, but it is such a fun way for veterans and their families to participate in and create a healthy social and active community. Bowls used to be considered as an older person’s game that younger people played - but it is fast becoming a game that everyone can play! The average age of both the Australian Men’s and Women’s teams is in their early thirties - with exciting and fast paced versions of the game being played by these top players throughout Australia being a draw card to the sport.”

Army veteran and recent attendee, John Ward said it introduced his family to an inclusive activity that has brought them closer together.

“Bowls is a great family fun-filled sport everyone will enjoy; our family had a wonderful day and highly recommend it to everyone. We have been back and played as a family multiple times since that day.”

The Veteran Family Bowls Event in Penrith will be staged on Thursday, April 7, with bowls activities from 5pm-7.30pm and a free BBQ will be provided.

“I encourage any veteran and members of their families to come along to meet like-minded people and learn a new skill to keep fit and healthy,” Ms Kerrigan said.

“It’s great to see local community organisations coming together to realise the vision of establishing a veteran community based around sport, family and mateship; it is becoming a reality in many regions of New South Wales and we would love to see it happen in more areas.”

Invictus Australia connects veterans and their families from around the country with sporting opportunities and supports ongoing involvement.

Celebrating SENIORS

21

T

he early signs of dementia are very subtle and may not be immediately obvious.

Early symptoms also vary a great deal.

Usually though, people first seem to notice that there is a problem with memory, particularly in remembering recent events.

Memory loss that affects day-to-day function It’s normal to occasionally forget appointments or a friend’s phone number and remember them later.

A person with dementia may forget things more often and not remember them at all.

Confusion about time and place It’s normal to forget the day of the week - for a moment.

But a person with dementia may have difficulty finding their way to a familiar place, or feel confused about where they are.

Problems with language Everyone has trouble finding the right word sometimes, but a person with dementia may forget simple words or substitute inappropriate words, making sentences difficult to understand.

Problems with abstract thinking Balancing a cheque-book can be difficult for anyone, but a person with dementia may have trouble knowing what the numbers mean.

Poor or decreased judgment A person with dementia may have difficulty judging distance or direction when driving a car.

Problems misplacing things Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or

keys. A person with dementia may put things in inappropriate places.

Changes in personality or behaviour Everyone becomes sad or moody from time to time. Someone with dementia can exhibit rapid mood swings for no apparent reason. They can become confused, suspicious or withdrawn.

A loss of initiative It’s normal to tire of some activities. But dementia

may cause a person to lose interest in previously enjoyed activities.

Only a medical practitioner such as your local doctor or specialist can diagnose dementia.

If a firm diagnosis has been made, it is helpful to find out about dementia and the support that is available to help you manage.

Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Warning signs of dementia

Legends of the Nepean Graham Chapman

By Noel Rowsell

G

1986 - Radio Announcer on 2GN Goulburn

ra h a m Chapman has become an unwitting celebrity during the recent flood crisis, with his frequent live coverage footage on the ‘Memories of Penrith’ Facebook page attracting millions of viewers from Australia and across the world, plus an ongoing flow of messages from both here and abroad.

It might be said Graham has become an ‘overnight’ celebrity but in fact, he has been putting the community first since he was a young boy living in Llandilo.

Graham joined the Rural Fire Service (then the Volunteer Bushfire Brigade) at the age of 12 and fought his first fire at the age of 14. He has served continuously in the RFS for 43 years and fought in every major fire in the district, plus many more further afield.

Born in Woy Woy in 1966, Graham subsequently moved with his family to a 5 acre farm at Llandilo, attending Llandilo PS then Cambridge Park HS. “I was blessed to be living in our

region during a changing era”, said Graham.

“The Panthers (Rugby League team) were new, people were moving to the vast open land of Sydney’s west and the future was unfolding before our eyes. I watched as my father and brother went off to fight the 1978 Blue Mountains bushfires and I, along with other locals, was forced to defend Llandilo as hot embers bombarded our region day after day. We were chasing grass fires everywhere. That gave me the understanding of the importance of helping fellow Aussies. I remember joining the local Llandilo RFS as a 12 year old and to this day, I remain an active member, although nowadays I am with the Castlereagh RFS.” “I left home at 17 and started a career in radio, working as a DJ, which was an absolute dream come true. I spent 10 magical years working at stations like 2RE Taree, 2GN Goulburn, 2WS Sydney, 2 Double O Wollongong and 2NX in Newcastle. Following my radio career, I decided to move into the television industry, where I worked for NBN television, which was part of the NINE network, for almost 7

2006 - Monitoring an Oncoming Fire Front

years. Eventually I started my own advertising and marketing business in Penrith, which was perfect as I raised 3 young children (Reagan, Alec and Chanel).”

Graham also met partner Diana seven years ago and she has become an integral part of his life.

“In 2017 I did something I always wanted to do and that was to start a tourism business offering day tours to the Blue Mountains. I combine my many years of radio and television into

Graham’s Camping Site at Mogo Zoo

a modern way of delivering a unique day tour and before Covid hit, the world was loving it. I use character voices, explain our (Australia’s) history and take people to the magical locations around the Blue Mountains.

At the end of every day I’m exhausted, as it’s a full day of talking, entertaining and the odd bit of very bad singing. It’s been a tough two and half years with fires, Covid, floods and no international tourism but somehow I have survived.

“In 2013 I started the Memories of Penrith Facebook site. It started because I wanted to find a picture from my childhood in Llandilo. I quickly realised that my site was an incredibly popular site, not just locally but around the world. The site has been recognised in State Parliament by local member Stuart Ayres, as a site that enjoys ‘trips down memory lane’ then can quickly turn to be an informative site in the case of local emergencies. My media and communications background allows me to bring live uninterrupted crosses from an actual scene, complete with commentary and interviews if required. I started doing live crosses during the fires and I quickly realised that the local community was in need of this information. During the floods of 2020 and 2021, I again broadcast live and was there to witness the North Richmond bridge go under for the first time in over a decade. In 2022, when the recent flood crisis hit our region, I was the first to declare that the Hawkesbury will again go under. It just made sense when I considered the dam was full and

Graham, Shaun and Jen Whitehouse, Diana - Glowworms Half Marathon

substantial rain was falling. In the past four weeks my online videos have been viewed by more than 3 million people.

I have received over 500 messages to the site of encouragement and support from across the world.

“The most famous video of all is the video where in 2020, I was splashed by a passing vehicle on the bridge on Eighth Avenue, Llandilo. This video has gone viral again, having over 2.2 million views. We’ve all been through a lot and the fact that people can smile and laugh at my expense I’m totally ok with that. Whatever it takes to achieve that happiness at the moment.”

Whilst Graham’s recent experiences have been as a spectator, it is his active involvement in community service which have provided some of his most life-challenging moments.

During the 2019-2020 fires which rampaged through most of NSW, Graham was involved with the fires at Mangrove Mountain, where his courage, experience and capability saved both his life and the lives of other volunteer fire-fighters.

Caught by the swirling blaze which threatened to totally engulf his fire tanker, Graham not only kept his head but also provided a calming influence for his crew.

“We had a wall of flames crowning in the trees reaching heights of 40 to 50 feet being fanned by strong winds, with our sector leader screaming over the radio for us to get out” said Graham.

“We attempted to leave but the tanker

stalled at a critical moment. We were left with no alternative but to operate our emergency sprinklers’.

“I couldn’t hear anything but the noise of the wind and the flames but I gave the engine one last try and although I couldn’t hear it start up, when I put it in gear and tried moving, the tanker started to edge forward.

“We were completely blind but I knew the track ran straight for the next 50-70 metres and the fire front was about 20-30 metres, so I was desperately hoping to edge the tanker clear.

“Amazingly we came out of the flames and I saw a 4-wheel drive alongside us pointing in the direction we had come.

“It was a senior commander and once we were clear of danger, I asked him what he was doing in there. He simply said, ‘I heard your red message and I was coming for you, I wasn’t going to let you die alone’ and he gave me the thumbs up.

“I’ve never forgotten either that moment or the courage of that man but I’ve never had the opportunity to get to know him or meet him again,” said Graham.

Not only has Graham devoted much of his life to the RFS, he has been a Soccer coach for 11 years, a Football referee for 41 years, runs Summer Football on the synthetic fields at Jamison Park for Nepean Football Association and also runs in the annual Ultra Marathon in the Blue Mountains. “This year I will

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Graham - Blue Mts Day Tours

be doing the 100km Marathon and hoping to raise funds for the RFS,” said Graham.

He also owns and run the ‘Great Camping Adventures’ company, which runs Blue Mountains Day Tours and also Camping at Mogo Zoo. “Penrith is an amazing community and my next exciting project is a 200page coffee style book which will be a kaleidoscope of images and captions from our Facebook site. This will be launched in May of 2023 to celebrate our ten years serving the community of Penrith and surrounding suburbs.

“I’m honoured to be classed as a local legend.”

Graham is looking for a volunteer to help collate information for his new book. This person is ideally a journalism student, who could use this experience in furthering their own education and career. Alternatively, a senior Australian with a historian / journalist background who would get satisfaction from the collection and collating of this information.

Graham has become the first person to be awarded Life Membership of the Nepean Referees Group, which he proudly described as ‘a real honour’.

Graham Chapman was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Mark (MG) Geyer.

If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

24

local news

Minis Down Under

By Noel Rowsell

H

a v i n g attended many International Mini Meets in the UK and also the 50th anniversary celebration in Australia, Mini Club of NSW (MCCNSW) members Michael and Lynne Benton were inspired to put together an event plan, for a 60th anniversary celebration of the Mini in Australia, to the Mini Club of NSW. “This was back in 2020 and the Club’s committee supported the plan with alacrity but, of course, none of us knew we were heading for a global Pandemic,” said Michael.

“We started with a date for the event of 2nd May 2021, then moved to 1st August, then the 21st November and finally 6th March 2022 - not even the 60th year any more! But we figured if the Olympics can move, then so can the mighty Mini.

“We did sense a faltering of interest, even in ourselves, caused by lockdowns and Covid but we decided to plough on.

“But the week before 6th March 2022 heralded some of the worst flooding the east coast of Australia has seen.

Our registered entrants were reporting serious local flooding and also Covid outbreaks. “We were nervous and coping with streams of phone calls and emails but also, encouragingly, late interest in participating.

“On the day (Sunday March 6) we were slightly down on numbers but managed 140+ Minis and derivatives on show, with trade stands representing Canterbury MINI Garage, Shannon’s, Mini & Moke World, Mini Works Australia, E-Valence and SU Midel.

“About 1,000 people were in attendance over the day, we raised over $2,000 from raffles and silent auctions for ‘Canteen’ and we covered costs for MCCNSW. Rosehill Gardens was an excellent venue, with superb support for our event. We have received numerous positive comments and most

importantly for us, reports from people who enjoyed themselves enormously and caught up with old friends - we couldn’t ask for anything more.

“MCCNSW hosts mini-drives every month and no doubt will be celebrating the 70th anniversary but for now we need a breather.”

There were several owners from the Lower Blue Mountains, Penrith and Blacktown districts who displayed their much-loved cars at the event.

Three western Sydney residents had particular reasons to celebrate, with Kylie Warren (Emu Heights) winning ‘Best Clubman in Show’, William Meyn (St Clair) winning ‘Best In Show’ and Natasha Hiron (Kings Langley) winning Best Mini Cooper / Cooper S / Mk1 / Mk2 In Show’.

Kylie took out the ‘Best Clubman In Show’ award with her 1972 Leyland Mini GT Clubman (Jaffa).

Before

It has been a sparkling transformation for Jaffa, which was awarded the somewhat ignominious ‘Rust & Dust’ award at a show in 2018. Fast forward two years and Kylie and Jaffa have soared to the top of the class at Minis Down Under, with Jaffa now beautifully restored.

“Thanks for reaching out,” said Kylie. “I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face today after winning ‘Best Clubman’.

“I bought “Jaffa” the 2/72 Leyland Mini Clubman GT in 2018, after passing it on the side of the road in Springwood with a ‘For Sale’ sign, completely unrestored and with its original paint work. “The engine had been rebuilt and I knew that the fact it had matching numbers meant it was a rare find.

“I joined the Mini Car Club of NSW, made great new friends and

drove it (Jaffa) around and enjoyed it for 12 months, before starting the full restoration. Myself, my husband Daniel, my father Geoff, my brother Michael and Jaffa’s previous owner (my now great friend Rob) all helped me restore it over the next 15 months.

“She (Jaffa) is a great little headturner and buckets of fun to zip around in. She’s not a museum piece, outside of lock-downs. I try to drive it once a week or once a fortnight and often do a lap from Emu Plains through Penrith to blow out the cobwebs.

William Meyn had an even bigger smile during the presentation of the Show’s awards, taking out the prestigious ‘Best Car In Show’ award with ‘Millie’, his 1969 Morris Mini Matic.

“Millie, as my girlfriend affectionately calls her, is a 1969 Morris Mini Matic,” said William.

“What makes Millie so special, she is a 1960’s Tiptronic ‘built for him and her’. As the old classic advertisement states,’ he’ can change the gears through 1, 2, 3 & 4 like a speed racer and when ‘she’ jumps in, pop it into D, like driving Miss Daisy.

“Millie’s is unrestored from factory, with the original vinyl floors, interior and paint in excellent condition for its age. It has a Ferris radio, which can be removed from the vehicle whist listening to music and having lunch in a park.

“Millie originated on the showroom floor of Lancaster Motors P/L (Parramatta Branch), a BMC dealer at the time as it states in the booklet.

Millie still has her original Owners Manual and Service Book from 1969, when it cost $7 for a 3,000 mile service. The car then found its way to Glenbrook and when the first owner’s husband passed away, his loving wife could not bear to part with the car.

“So Millie has been garaged for over 25 years and today (Sunday 6th March) was Millie’s day to shine, with a little elbow grease and $2 Windex and Tyre Shine, she polished up good for her age.

After

local news

“Now Millie has found a forever home in my car collection.

“I am proud to have a car which represents the embodiment and passion for the classic Mini.”

Graham Adam (Faulconbridge) is another local Mini enthusiast who showed off the four-wheel love of his life at Minis Down Under.

“I purchased Monty (1976 Leyland Clubman) 5 years ago, after flirting with mini ownership previously. I had a similar car in 2009~2010 but had to let it go.

“Through a friend at work, who was also into minis, many conversations were had and a decision made. My friend knew of a car coming onto the market that might be a good buy, so we went to take a look. And so Monty came into my life. The car was without a drive train, suspension, brakes and interior but all of these are now readily able to be sourced, so they were bought and installed for my future use.

“Monty was built to be reliable as a daily drive but fast and flexible enough

to be driven in Club Level Motorsport, most particularly Motorkhana (this is timed driving around flags in a test of agility and precision). As a member of the Lower Blue Mountains Christian Car Club and visiting with several other Car Clubs, Monty has competed in Motorkhana at up to State level, acquitting himself very well along the way.

“In 2021 Monty underwent some

cosmetic work to give him a new exterior, after fixing up the minor imperfections that come with age. The colour he is today is called Hairy Lime, the brightest and shiniest green you can find.

“Monty is driven every week and competes in Motorkhana competitions multiple times every year.

“I retired in January and we have now relocated to the Central Coast. Monty is now making new friends from Minis On The Coast and we are enjoying the opportunities to take him out every chance we get.”

Multiple photos of owners with cars and shots from the event with cars on show. Photos by Noel Rowsell & various owners

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

- 60th Anniversary of the Marque

25

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

26

local news

From Western Sydney to orbit: stellar new camera tech on the International Space Station

I

n a world-first, Western Sydney University and the United States Air Force Academy have successfully received neuromorphic data sent from space after launching ground-breaking neuromorphic cameras on the International Space Station (ISS).

Developed and built by the University’s International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS), the space-based cameras are part of Project Falcon Neuro – a joint initiative between the University and the US launched in December 2021, and recently installed on the International Space Station in January.

The two neuromorphic cameras are designed for earth observation and analysis of atmospheric events such as sprites – a fascinating high-altitude phenomenon caused by upward electrical discharges from thunderstorms.

Associate Professor Gregory Cohen, ICNS’s lead researcher on Project Falcon Neuro, says these ‘event-based’ cameras, as they are often called, are a completely different type of sensor that operates more like a biological eye than a conventional camera.

“These cameras don’t take pictures, but rather sense changes and only send those when they happen.

This method of sensing the visual world allows them to perform tasks that simply cannot be done with a conventional camera,” said Associate Professor Cohen.

On 24 January this year, Falcon Neuro captured data as the ISS passed over the coastline of Honduras.

The cameras recorded data that was later streamed back to earth and processed using algorithms developed by the ICNS research team at Western Sydney University.

“The result we saw from the first resolved data image was fantastic. Although it may look like a normal image when we display it, the information was collected in a completely new and novel way,” said Associate Professor Cohen.

“This is only the first step. Now we know the cameras are working and operating in space, we can start using them for scientific experiments and further explore the incredible potential of these sensors and what they can do from orbit.”

Associate Professor Cohen said this is an enormous technological advancement that is vital for Australia’s space capabilities and growing space sector.

“It’s easy to lose sight of just how hard building things for space can be. There are so many technical challenges between the scientific goal and actually placing a working sensor in orbit. It’s really a testament to the absolutely fantastic engineering

efforts by the technical team at ICNS and the cadets and faculty at US Air Force Academy,” he said.

Dr Matthew McHarg, Director of the Space Physics and Atmospheric Research Center at the US Air Force Academy said the collaboration between the two institutions has resulted in innovative engineering solutions to solve modern challenges and create exciting new scientific possibilities.

“Working with the Western Sydney University team has been a tremendous experience. The ICNS researchers had to heavily modify DAVIS cameras so they would work in space. We never could have successfully executed the Falcon Neuro mission without them,” said Dr McHarg.

Western Sydney University’s Deputy ViceChancellor Research, Enterprise and International, Professor Deborah Sweeney, said Project Falcon Neuro is an outstanding example of the University’s world-class research, development and industry partnerships in action.

“We are incredibly proud of our ICNS team and the University’s world-leading neuromorphic engineering research expertise, which is significantly strengthening Australia’s space industry capabilities,” said Professor Sweeney.

“Working with government, big-tech, as well as local and international research partners, we are helping to solve real-world challenges in the rapidlyevolving space industry.

Falcon Neuro was launched on 21 December 2021

to the International Space Station on the SpaceX CRS-24 resupply mission in the unpressurised cargo hold.

The cameras deployed as part of Falcon Neuro are biologically-inspired event-based cameras – the same revolutionary technology utilised in the Astrosite™, an earth-bound mobile space situational awareness (SSA) system developed by ICNS. To learn more about Project Falcon Neuro, please visit: www.westernsydney.edu.au/future-makers/ issue-five/biology-inspired-cameras-on-theinternational-space-station

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT

HIRE US FOR ALL YOUR BUS NEEDS! Phone

4732 2195

Victor & Cathy Glanville

Mob:

0416 157 668

14/14-18 Preston St, Penrith | enquiry@vicsmaxitransport.com.au

www.vicsmaxitransport.com.au

local news

N

epean Solar Solutions celebrates its seven-year anniversary this month.

This local business commenced operations back in 2015 starting from a garage turned office and small storage room with one employee, being me the owner Jim Hill.

I had been in the electrical trade for over 35-years by then and in the Solar industry since 2010. I saw a need in the local area to provide a tailored design and installation service using local, qualified technicians that would provide a quality installation with a back-up service for any post installation problems that might arise.

By ensuring we only carried quality products, we avoided having too many issues and I believe that this business philosophy has been rewarded with many jobs coming to us by way of referrals from existing clients.

Our business has grown steadily over these past years, and we now have a great team made up of administration support staff, tradesmen, and apprentices, all residents of the Nepean area providing our customers with fast and efficient service from our office now located in High St, opposite Penrith High School.

Our first installation was in Glenmore Park, which was a 5.0kW Solar System and since then we have maintained contact with the owner, we still monitor his system and sometime later installed a battery system which has allowed him to use more of his generated Solar power.

A vast majority of our work has been through word of mouth referrals and as we say, we sell what the customer needs, rather than what we are trying to push at the time.

Some of our highlights have seen our team complete a rollout of 35.0kW systems on new Ambulance Super Centres across Sydney (including Penrith) in 2020, retrofitting existing Ambulance

Stations also across Sydney in 2021.

This was through a tender system, and it was our certified ISO:9001 Quality Assurance systems and Approved Solar Retailer status with the Clean Energy Council and experience within the Solar industry that gave us the edge with these contracts.

The main benefits to using Nepean Solar Solutions are that we are locally based, we employ our own installers, we only supply and install quality products that have industry leading product warranties, we also monitor all of systems to ensure they operate as designed and any issues are addressed quickly.

Our services also extend to maintaining contact with our client’s post-installation to make sure they are getting the best deal from their electrical retailers and offer a range of Solar Battery Systems and more recently Electric Vehicle car chargers.

Thank you to all our customers

over the years, you have helped us reach this great milestone and we

look forward to many more birthday celebrations to come!

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Happy 7th birthday for Nepean Solar Solutions

27

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

28

local COLUMNIST

Ear infections (Otitis Externa)

W

ith the recent rain in Penrith, ear infections and skin complaints, are a common problem seen amongst our furry friends.

Ear infections can cause extreme discomfort and further health problems if left untreated.

There are many types of infectious bacteria, fungi, parasites, and foreign material which might cause inflammation and infection in the outer, middle, or inner ears.

Dogs’ and cats’ ear canals are shaped like a long, ‘L’. They are great for hearing, but this shape predisposes them to collect debris and moisture.

The most common causes of ear disease include allergies, heat and trapped moisture, excessive earwax, ear mites, foreign material like a grass seed, or an unknown growth or polyp.

There are many causes of ear problems in dogs.

This may include allergies, temperature, trapped moisture, excessive wax, ear mites, foreign material, polyps and unknown growths.

Some breeds, particularly those with floppy or hairy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, or Golden Retrievers, can be more prone to ear infections.

However, they can occur in any breed.

Healthy ears are generally pink, clean, and have an unobtrusive smell. A pet suffering from an ear infection could show a number of symptoms.

Symptoms of an ear infection may include ears appear red and inflamed with a coloured discharge, a strong odour, constant ear scratching or shaking of the head, swelling around the ear and whimpering due to discomfort. Serious ear problems may cause loss of balance, hearing loss, unusual eye movements and walking in circles or head tilting.

Ears are very sensitive. If you feel your pet may have a problem, please contact your veterinarian and arrange an appointment. Having your pets’ ears examined by a veterinarian will allow them to determine whether the eardrum is intact or if there are any foreign materials in the ear canal. Vets can also obtain a sample for further diagnostics. Your vet will diagnose the cause of the problem and provide the best treatment and home care plan to combat the condition and have your pet in top shape once again.

How are pet ear infections diagnosed?

A thorough clinical examination, including examining your pet’s skin, assessing the ear drum to ensure it is intact coupled with taking a small sample of the ear contents and looking under the microscope will allow your veterinarian to determine the cause of the disease. When a pet is in extreme pain and does not allow the examination, it may be necessary to sedate or anesthetise the pet for a more thorough examination and diagnosis.

How are ear infections treated?

In many cases, ear drops can be applied to the affected ear. If there is foreign matter or excess discharge in the ear canal, the pet may need to be sedated or anaesthetised so that it can be removed prior to the ear drops being administered.

Sometimes, more than one type of infection could be diagnosed, and this may require the use of multiple medications. Your veterinarian will recommend a tailored treatment plan based on the diagnosis.

Always follow your vets after care instructions and follow the medication directions that have been advised by your veterinarian. Do not use expired medications or medications that have been prescribed for another pet.

If you suspect that they have an ear infection or irritation, contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

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

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

F

riends of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of

MAX IS LOOKING FOR A FAMILY

these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

LUCKY GOT HIS NAME FOR A REASON

Lucky was caught in the engine of a car and thanks to the quick thinking of staff he made it out without a scratch! Lucky has been a pleasure to look after, he is a very sweet and happy boy!

Lucky is ready to start his new life now so please come and meet him anytime during open hours!

Cost: $225.50 Age: 9 years and 4 months Type: Dog Breed: GERMAN SHEPHERD Sex: Male

Cost: $171.30 Age: 8 weeks Type: Kitten Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Male

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

DYLAN IS READY TO RUN WITH YOU

Dylan is a speedy little pup who just loves to run and play he would be best suited with a family who have been looking for a little dog with lots of energy. If you are interested in meeting him please come to the shelter with the kids and your family dog just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together Cost: $416.30 Type: Dog Sex: Male

Age: 6 months Breed: FOXY CROSS Size: Medium

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

30

ENTERTAINMENT

The other side of travel Vanuatu: Before the fall

Cartagena Streets

By BEN CRANNEY

Bad travel experiences are a good problem to have, because it means you’re travelling. No amount of planning or luck will eliminate them, although you might think I didn’t have any because my column describes everything as ‘incredible’. They can also make for good stories, and here are a few of mine.

After a thunderstorm soaked and destroyed my passport, I take a dry bag everywhere. They are very versatile: keeping liquid out or keeping liquid in. Case in point, my dry bag became a ‘protect-the-car-from-vomit’ bag.

And it worked remarkably well. It even kept most of the smell in. And after a wash, it was good to protect my

Greek sunrise

passport again.

Another story started after a morning of scrambling up uneven, overgrown paths and avoiding clouds of sulphur gas rising from the earth to get to the top of a volcano in Vanuatu. My wife rolled her ankle at the top. She tells the story as me being her knight in shining amour, carrying her safely back down.

I’ll claim that, but she only went up in the first place to humour me.

Sometimes, bad things are a blessing in disguise. I watched the most amazing sunrise in the Greek Islands because my stomach woke me up.

But gastro doesn’t always hit at good times, like in the Cu Chi tunnels of Vietnam. I now carry gastro-stop and hydralite whenever I travel.

Another blessing was when we

became homeless in Seville, Spain, because we had the gall to question our host why everyone was smoking when she advertised a smoke free stay.

She was mid puff when she kicked us out. We found ourselves on a bus to an ‘incredible’ mountain village built around a crumbling fortress, a testament to the once poor relationship between Portugal and Spain.

Other poor international relationships were more contemporary, like in Serbia, when we had knives pulled on us because we tried to argue the price with the taxi driver. Or in Cartagena, Colombia, when the fellow taking us on a pub crawl threatened to kill me because I was Australian.

Turns out he was joking, but he left me sweating for 10 minutes in a place

Into the Cu Chi tunnels Photos: @exploringtheworldscranneys

that was, until recently, the murder capital of the world. Or when my wife called from US detention, in hysterics, because US border control thought she was sneaking in from Mexico.

So be prepared, but welcome the bad experiences, as they make the trip that much more valuable.

INTERNATIONAL

Ladies Day Penrith CBD Corp presented the annual International Women’s Day breakfast at Penrith RSL last week. A great day!

Social Butterfly

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

32

Blue Mountains Music Festival postponed

A

fter two pandemic-induced postponements, the 25th Blue Mountains Music Festival has again been delayed, this time because of the current severe weather event.

New dates for the live music program at venues around Katoomba have been set for October 7 - 9, 2022.

Ticketholders have been urged to retain their tickets for the rescheduled event.

They need not do anything tickets will remain valid and receipts exchanged for wristbands at the festival box office in October.

Those who can’t make the new dates can access a refund for four weeks from (March 8 - April 8, 2022).

Contact info@bmff.org.au.

Blue Mountains Music Festival was to have been a weekend of folk, roots and blues music; songwriter and instrumentals circles; heartland conversations; poet’s breakfasts and roving performers featuring high profile headliners, local talent, international acts and emerging artists.

It was to be a feature of the new Equinox – Autumn Celebration of the Senses festival created by Blue Mountains Tourism to highlight and unite all that is great about the region in Autumn. Details: https://www. visitbluemountains.com.au/equinox.

Blue Mountains Tourism president Jason Cronshaw encouraged ticketholders to continue their support of the festival, the venues and the music artists by rescheduling their visit.

“It’s so disappointing for everyone involved, but it was the responsible decision to take. The rescheduled festival will be worth the wait, I’m sure.’’

In the meantime, other Equinox festivities would go ahead as planned, and he urged people with existing bookings to visit as planned to experience the many other available activities the region had to offer.

Spanning the entire Blue Mountains region over four weekends between March 18 and April 10, 2022, Equinox will be a convergence of fine food and craft beverages, art and entertainment

and, of course, the natural World Heritage-listed environment.

It will still feature myriad free and ticketed events for locals and visitors of all ages, including FEAST dining and entertainment show at the Hydro Majestic Hotel, The Unfair Advantage card tricks show at locals secret venue Pigeon Lane and sunrise/sunset yoga.

Details: www.visitbluemountains. com.au/equinox.

www.majoroak.com.au

Now Re-Opened

ENTERTAINMENT

Conciertos Destilados: Daniel Rojas & Andrew Blanch

I

t’s a night of ‘musica fantastica’ at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre with the intoxicating Latin American sounds of Conciertos Destilados - a celebration of the guitar, Latin America and Australian music-making. With Daniel Rojas on piano bringing his composer’s ear and

charismatic flair to Andrew Blanch’s captivating skill at the guitar, the duo offer an exciting new take on iconic Spanish and Australian works.

Headlining the program is Rojas’ new Guitar Concerto No.1, along with Joaquin Rodrigo’s classic Concierto de Aranjuez, one of the best-loved

concertos of all time: distilled into their duo versions for guitar and piano, the instrument closest to an orchestra in itself.

Conciertos Destilados is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, as part of the Salon program in the Mullins Studio, on Friday 1

April at 7pm.

Tickets: Standard $35, Concession $30, Under 30s $25. A booking fee applies. www.thejoan.com.au/events/ conciertos-destilados/ Dine and Discover and Parents NSW vouchers are accepted.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Latin American Lounge at The Joan

33

OUT N ABOUT with Malama

To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au

Small Business Month in Penrith Rebuild, Recharge, Renew It was a fabulous business networking breakfast put on by Penrith CBD Corp.

Great to catch up with Eleni Petinos Minister for Small Business and Fair Trading and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres.

Clean up Australia Day

Helpers came out in droves to Queen Street St Marys on Sunday March 6 for Clean Up Australia Day.

Do you live, work or visit St Marys?

Penrith Council wants to hear from you.

In twenty years from now, what kind of place do you want St Marys to be? What do you hope will be different? What do you hope will stay the same?

Penrith Council is asking these questions at https://fal.cn/3mWgG to help guide planning and development in line with community aspirations and vision for the future of the city.

We invite you to come in and see our tasty range of Authentic Italian Smallgoods.

Using only 100% Australian Pork and certified Gluten Free we are certain there is more than one of our range that will satisfy your tastes.

MONTECATINI SPECIALITY SMALLGOODS Unit 1/6 Robertson Pl, Penrith NSW 2750

BY ROLAND MELOSI

PH 4721 2550 FAX 4731 2557

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

TRIVIA Wednesdays 7pm POKER Thursday 6pm, Sunday 2pm FRIDAY FILL THE FRIDGE Drawn 7pm SUNDAY raffle Drawn 6.30pm HAPPY HOUR Mon – Fri 4pm-6pm, Sat 12noon-4pm, Members Only Members Draw Friday 7pm, 8pm & 9pm Sunday 6pm, 7pm & 8pm Temporary Trading Hours Monday Midday - 10pm, Tuesday Midday - 9pm, Wednesday Midday - 10pm, Thursday 10am - 11pm, Friday & Saturday 10am - Midnight, Sunday 11am - 10pm

Shamrock Grill ~ Lunchtime Specials ~ Mon–Fri 12–2.30pm

Easter Raffle Sunday 10th April Tickets on sale from 5pm

SHOW

FREE ENTERTAINMENT friDAY 18 March

Chris Vineburg

SATURDAY 19 March

Natasha Duarte

friDAY 25 March

Darren Johnstone

SATURDAY 26 March

Steve Jackson

Saturday 9th April 7.30pm ~ Free from 7.30pm

SUNDAY 27 March 5PM

Blackwater

Ladies Day Celebrating International Women’s Day at the Pioneer Tavern last Tuesday.

Social Butterfly

02 4736 4647 | THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

We promote the responsible service of gaming and alcohol. All our advertising and promotions are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

SUDOKU: EASY

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

SUDOKU: HARD

ENTERTAINMENT

38

INSTRUCTIONS Fill the grid so

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

SOLUTION: 4 March MEDIUM

HARD

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Not the same (9) 6 Breast (5) 9 Land reclaimed from the sea (7) 10 Brain-teasers (7) 11 A type of sugar (7) 12 Separate (7) 13 Paradise (9) 15 A resin used in incense (5) 16 Gather (5) 19 Deplorable (9) 22 Female (7) 23 Cancels (7) 25 A plant sometimes used to make pies (7) 26 Mutilating (7) 27 Trench (5) 28 Child (9)

down 1 Fools (5) 2 Mediterranean sailing ship (7) 3 Before long (7) 4 Result (5) 5 Finish (9) 6 Type of skin ulcer (7) 7 Collect discarded material (7) 8 Hypnotize (9) 13 Libelled (9) 14 Indescribably (9) 17 Attack (7) 18 Chief sun god (Assyrian mythology) (7) 20 Masts, spars and sails (7) 21 Between (7) 23 Goddess of the sea ( Sumerian mythology) (5) 24 A sweetener (5)

solution 4/3/22

ENTERTAINMENT

MAZE

BEARS CAGE CLOWNS ELEPHANT FIRE HOOPS HORSES

JUGGLERS LION TAMER LIONS NET PEANUTS POPCORN

RINGMASTER STILTS TIGERS TIGHTROPE TRAPEZE UNICYCLE

➦

➦

Circus

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

WORD SEARCH

39

Samurai

Sudoku INSTRUCTIONS Samurai sudoku puzzles consist of five overlapping sudoku grids. The standard sudoku rules apply to each 9 x 9 grid. Place digits from 1 to 9 in each empty cell. Every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box should contain one of each digit.

NEPEAN HISTORY

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

40

The Royal Aero Club

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

I

n October 1914, a group of young officers of the newly Hospital where Dr Barrow examined Peter’s body at formed Australian Flying Corps met in Victoria. They Penrith Morgue. He said that in his opinion, death was decided that an Australian Aero club should be formed due to a fracture of the skull. Flying Instructor Tasman to be affiliated with the Royal Aero Club in London.

Herbert Dalton of the Royal Aero Club of NSW said that The first President Major H.A. Petre was sent out from Peter was a student pilot and his flying experience was England to inaugurate a flying school for the Australian approximately 45 hours, made up of dual and solo flying, Government. Further development of the Clubs was approximately 21 hours would have been the solo flying delayed by World War I and in 1919 individual sections but before Peter could be tested as a pilot, he would have of the Australian Aero Club was formed in Victoria, New to have a minimum of 40 hours total flying. He said that South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. In March Peter was to be tested for his licence the next day by him 1926 the national aero club movement was formalised as he had supervised Peter’s flying instruction and from under the name of the Australian Aero Club Federal Council his experience he would say that Peter had shown sound and consisted of representatives of the Victorian and New average ability and that he was on the premises when the South Wales Clubs only. In 1929 a new Constitution was aircraft was ready for Peter to fly that day, but he did not adopted and the name changed to the Associated Aero see the actual departure. He also said that he had flown Clubs. The primary object of the Clubs was initially to that aeroplane that morning and it was perfectly normal in develop interest in flying throughout the Commonwealth, operation and the course Peter was directed to fly on that with particular attention paid to Aerial pageants, air races day involved flying directly along the Nepean River and and public receptions for pioneer aviators at the end Peter was on his second cross-country solo flight. Eric  Newspaper photo of Peter of historic flights. These were accompanied by flying Buhois Spooner an accountant of Wahroonga said that from the Melbourne Herald displays and were well attended. As WW2 began to about 5.10 p.m. in March he was standing at the side of a threaten in the 1930s, the Clubs began to realise their defence potential house on the western bank of the Nepean River at Agnes Banks when he and they made strong representations to the Federal Government for saw a yellow single-engine aeroplane travelling in a northerly direction financial assistance to support pilot training at a reasonable cost for the and following the line of the Nepean River at about 160 to 200ft and it individual. When war finally broke out in 1939 several of the larger appeared to be running normally from the sound of the motor and was Clubs were turned into elementary flying training schools and provided descending at an angle of about 20 degrees when it levelled out at about the instructors, aircraft and ground maintenance facilities to train cadet 60ft above the treetops and flew on that course for about 100 yards. Eric pilots for the Royal Australian Air Force that allowed the RAAF to said he saw sparks coming from the front of the plane and he heard a concentrate on intensive instructor training. In December 1945 while on screeching noise that he later learnt was the cables parting, and the left a local flight a single engine aircraft went out of control and spun in wing dropped pointing to the ground and the nose of the plane rose and between Prince Henry Hospital and Long Bay Gaol in south Sydney. The he saw the plane falling but did not see it after it fell below the level of aircraft was destroyed and the pilot Miss Betty Faux (30) an electrical the trees. He ran in the direction of where the plane fell and located it worker of Kensington was killed in this aircraft rebuilt during the war by near the western bank and he noticed that the cockpit was about two feet the Aero Club of NSW at Mascot when replacement aircrafts required underwater but Peter was well under the water, he freed him from the desperate measures. The plane was based on the wreck of a Moth VHcockpit and cut the straps but the shoulder straps were quite tight, and so UHQ that was badly burnt in a hangar fire at Wagga in December 1939. tight that Eric had to put a little force on them in order to get the knife The rebuilt aircraft was designated a DH.60GIII Moth Major that was under and after he had freed Peter he was placed in a rowing boat and originally built by De Haviland and flight tested in December 1943. It taken to shore. Stanley Lintott, a farmer residing at Springwood Road in continued to fly with the RACNSW for almost exactly two years until Agnes Banks said he was sitting on the veranda of his home facing the the fatal crash. In 1948 the name changed to the Aero Club Federation Nepean River when he saw the plane fall into the river after hitting high of Australia and during 1960 the prefix ‘Royal’ was granted by Her tension wires. He rowed down with his brother to the plane and he was Majesty and the present title adopted. In March 1954, Peter Williamson present when Eric Spooner released the pilot from it and helped to place Eastaway (28-single) of Cremorne, a student pilot of the Bankstown Peter on the bank and said that he carried out artificial respiration in case Royal Aero Club died from the effects of injuries accidentally sustained that it was necessary. Peter’s parents George & Lillian of Holt Road, when the Tiger Moth plane he was flying hit an electric high-tension Cremorne were at the inquest when the coroner said the he was satisfied wire stretched across the Nepean River and the plane fell into the river from evidence in this most unfortunate accident that all adequate steps at Agnes Banks. Peter was taking his “A” class cross-country license had been taken by the Aero Club, both in the instruction of Peter and in test. At the inquest held at Penrith Court House, the District Coroner the checking and preparation of the plane and that the aeroplane was in Mr N C Gardner CPS found that no blame was attached to the Club. an airworthy condition and it was a most unfortunate happening that can Constable Ellis of Penrith said that he went to the Western bank of the only be ascribed to the failure of the pilot Peter to observe closely the Nepean River at Agnes Banks and saw an aeroplane submerged in the instructions that he had been given. Peter’s funeral was at St Augustine’s river close to that bank and saw Peter lying cold on a blanket on the Church, Neutral Bay and then to the Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

Sources: Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives- Ed Coates, Nepean Times riverside. Penrith Ambulance then took his body to Nepean District

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The restoration of ‘It Happens’ and the yacht (Left - before, Right - After)

By Noel Rowsell

C

lose mates David Chesters (Glenmore Park) and Craig Young (Caddens) became the ‘odd couple’ in 2019, when they decided to purchase a racing yacht together.

Lifetime sailor Craig and 3-year sailing newbie David were an odd combination for ownership of ‘It Happens’ but David jumped straight in at the deep end, joining the delivery crew in Hobart to help sail the boat back up the coast to Sydney.

“It was a trial by fire,” said Craig.

“Not only was the boat located in Hobart but cosmetically, it was run down, needed new sails, rigging and probably more than the usual yacht maintenance.

“This was David’s third-ever sailing trip and his first time in the ocean. He got to experience surfing at 19 knots on 10 metre seas crossing Bass Strait, the sound of thousands of dolphins resonating through the hull, sailing under the stars and getting smashed by 55 knot winds going past Bermagui on the NSW South Coast. But, they made it and the mast was still pointing in the right direction.”

“The plan was to renovate “It Happens” and then race it. The first thing was to replace the rigging (wires which hold the mast up), as they were

well past their use by date. A crane and the local riggers sorted that out for us.

Next was 10 days on the Hard Stand to sand it right back, reseal the hull, fix up all the war wounds and paint it.

We took the opportunity to do the deck and inside as well. We had little idea what we were doing and were grateful to Youtube and the local shipwright / painter who sat amused each day with a coffee. Thankfully he gave us advice / tips and in exchange we gave him wine. It turned out alright!”

“So our yacht was ready to get wet again and take on the local racing fleets. Apart from myself and one other crew member (Todd Boyle from Richmond), no-one had sailing experience. Again, YouTube proved valuable and we were lucky enough to get some very experienced helmsman, tactician and crew to jump on and educate us. The majority of the crew are from the outer Western Suburbs (Penrith area) and had never stepped foot on a yacht in their lives.”

“We started off racing out of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA_, which has Australia’s largest fleet. No point doing it by halves. And we wiped out a few times, came last or close enough to it but had a lot of fun! The first goal was to get around the course safely.

The next goal was to improve on the previous time and the final goal was to pick an opposing boat and try to beat

it. Not wanting to blame ourselves too much for the poor results, we decided to blame our 20 year old sails. We ordered a whole replacement set and off we went.”

We have gone from last place 3 years ago to now being one of the most competitive yachts in the fleet, finishing in the top 3 of most races / series we’ve entered. We loan the yacht to one of Australia’s leading female helms-woman, Bridget Canham, to race in the Australian Women’s Keelboat series (successfully) and we also support charity events throughout the year. We enjoy taking newbies out for a sail and / or a race to introduce people to this sport. Despite a lot of the commentary, it is not a rich person’s sport. It cost us less for this boat than a new Commodore and it’s about the same cost to own it annually as owning a BMW. But you cannot take 12 people out in a BMW, cruise up the coast and sleep in it.”

“Our next goal is to obtain Certification for ocean racing and we will race in some of the coastal events later this year.

“Next year we are aiming for the Hamilton Island Race Series, which is 4 weeks of yacht racing with Australian and overseas yachts - it is the Grand Prix of Australian yacht racing.

“We are keen to get some sponsorship, given the success of the

The crew out racing on Sydney Harbour

yacht and the size of advertising area (on the sails and the hull). It would be fantastic if that was local Penrith business.”

The local crew members include Craig Young – Business Director; David Chesters – Solicitor; Elizabeth (Libby) Drysdale - EO Media & Communications; Todd Boyle Penrith City Archers and University students Cameron Chesters and Chloe Young.

‘It Happen’s was buit in 1991 and is one of the fastest 40 foot yachts around.

Designed by Australian David Payne and built in Sydney, only 2 were ever made.

‘It Happens’ has had some major modifications and has a length of 38.7 feet and weight of 4400 kgs.

The schedule for 2022 is: Winter Harbour Series - CYCA https://cyca.com.au/cyca-winterseries/Spinnaker Division; SOLAS Rotary Charity Event; Great Barr Boat Race - Charity Event; Women’s keelboat Championships; Summer Twilight series - CYCA https://cyca. com.au/wednesday-twilight-series/; Australia Day City of Sydney Cup 2023 – https://cyca.com.au/australiaday-city-of-sydney-cup/ and Short Haul Pointscore - Ocean Racing Sydney to Pittwater and return.

Plus various single races which the crew like the look of in the interim.

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

Partners know when ‘It Happens’

41

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

42

SPORT Local junior footballer to contest Juventus Academy World Cup

By Noel Rowsell

9

-year old Mamre Anglican School student Manuel Marques Sidarous (Sun Valley) is about to embark on the trip of a lifetime, competing with the Australian U10 team at the 2022 Juventus Training Experience & Juventus Academy World Cup, which runs from 14th-18th June in Milan, Italy.

Manuel trialled last year amongst some of Sydney’s best young footballers, performing in front of a number of football coaches from Italy, as well as Australia’s very own Socceroos coaching legend Rale Rasic.

“After a careful selection process, we got the call for the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Manuel’s mother Frances.

Life is now certainly hectic for the youngster, who trains daily through the week with both the Juventus Academy and his Football NSW Skill Acquisition Program (SAP) club team Bonnyrigg White Eagles, followed up by games on both Saturdays and Sundays.

In addition to both Juventus and Bonnyrigg, Manuel is a member of the Mamre Anglican School’s soccer program, also just recently adding strength and conditioning training to his regime at Play Essentials with Pedj Bojic.

This body and mind training helps a player focus on both their body and mind, to ensure tbey’re

9-year old Manuel Marques Sidarous will play for the Australian team at the Juventus Academy World Cup. Photos supplied

strong both mentally and physically.

“Like many young footballers in a demanding and highly competitive sport, Manuel will now have the opportunity to play internationally in Milan, in

the famous Allianz Stadium, where many famous footballers have played before him, showing that if you work hard and have belief in yourself, any dream can become a reality,” said Frances.

Not only is Manuel a promising footballer, he is also an Honour Student at school, receiving the Dux Award (also known as the Academic Excellence Award), the ‘Commitment to Sport Award’ and ‘Voracious Reading Award’ in 2021.

Manuel epitomises the ability to succeed both scholastically and in sport, especially a sport you love.

The Juventus Academy World Cup commenced in 2018, when 32 teams attended from 16 nations, with 400 players and 280 companions. The tournament was won by Tunisia.

In 2019, there were 85 teams from 28 nations, 1004 players and 504 companions, with Torun (Poland) winning the U12 division and Romania the U10’s.

All players attending the Juventus Training Experience & Juventus Academy World Cup this year must be accompanied by an adult.

The Sidarous family is making it a trip to remember, with mother Frances, father Mena, son Matthew and daughter Elyse all making the trip in support of Manuel.

The team leaves on 8th June and have organised friendly games, prior to the commencement of the Juventus Academy World Cup on 14th June.

Vale Rod Sutherland 1962-2022 Rodney (Rod) Sutherland, one of Penrith GC’s most successful players, has passed away following a relatively short period of illness with Multiple Myaloma.

Described by his brother Peter as a loving and loyal son, brother, uncle and friend, Rod’s life values were honour, trust, truthfulness and respect.

His biggest passion in life was golf, which he took up as an 8-year old in the Cadet ranks at Penrith.

“He (Rod) was well loved and respected by many, wherever he went on and off the golf course,” said Peter.

Member #209 at Penrith, Rod enjoyed his first competition win at Penrith win as a 12 year old, partnering another golfing identity in Jock Reid.

A mild-mannered Australian Taxation

Office employee by day, Rod turned into a tyro on the golf course, putting together a resume the envy of most golfers.

Over the 51 years of membership at Penrith GC, Rod was the Junior Club Champion in 1982, Club Champion in 1994, 1997, 2008 & 2011, Match Play Champion in 2007 & 2008, Foursomes Champion in 1996 and 2010, Mixed Foursomes Champion in 2008 and 2009, served as Club captain from 2007 to 2010, was a member of Penrith GC’s Major Pennant team for many years and also a member of the Penrith Seniors Pennant team.

Such was his influence at the Club, the major prize in the annual Penrith Open is the Sutherland Cup, named in his honour.

Rod scored three hole-in-one’s during his career, two at Penrith and one at Nelson’s

Bay and won the Australian Tax Office Golf Club Championship an astonishing 16 times from his last 17 attempts.

He simply loved sport and participating, representing locally and at both regional and state level, in sports which included Golf, Soccer, Water Polo, Hockey, Cricket and Rowing (coxswain), plus he enjoyed a flutter on the races and pokies.

“Rod had fantastic hand-eye coordination,” said Peter. “He retired from the ATO in 2017, at the age of 55 years, after working there for 36 years.”

Rod’s funeral will be held in the North Chapel at Pinegrove Memorial Park on Wednesday 23rd March at 1pm and afterwards at Penrith GC. Attendees have been requested to wear Golf attire where possible.

Major Pennant playoffs deferred

By Noel Rowsell

D

ue to the extreme weather conditions across Sydney, Golf NSW postponed all but two matches from the weekend’s scheduled Metropolitan Major Pennant Semifinals and relegation contests.

In addition, all Pennant Finals which had been set down for Sunday, 27 March 2022 at Riverside Oaks Golf Resort, have also been postponed.

All relegation contests will be held at venues and dates to be advised, when course availability becomes clearer.

Golf NSW appreciates everyone’s patience in these exceptional circumstances as we work towards concluding the 2022 Major Pennant Competition.

The decision impacts on four western Sydney clubs which are due to play Relegation playoff matches, with

Penrith GC due to face Cronulla GC and Twin Creeks CGC facing Liverpool GC in Division 1; Glenmore Heritage Valley GC facing Bayview in Division 3 and Leonay GC facing Randwick in Division 4.

In the Women’s division, Stonecutters Ridge GC play Lynwood CC at a venue and date to be confirmed, with the winner to play Ryde-Parramatta in the Division 2 Final.

In Women’s Grade Pennant, leaders Penrith GC had a crushing 5-0 win over Mona Vale, with each of the Penrith players putting their opponents to the sword.

Isabelle Mansfield led the team at #1 and won 6&4, Mikayla Edwards won 8&6, Joanne Ogle won 6&5, Samantha Hamilton won 7&5 and Vicki Hall won 2-up.

If the division continues to form, it will set up an intriguing clash between competition leaders Penrith and Royal Sydney in the final round of the regular season on 25th March.

Penrith Women’s Major Pennant player Joanne Ogle.

File photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell

PENRITH PANTHERS

The end is near

Women’s game is growing

Well the final season of Bluebet Stadium as we know and love it has started. Depending on how old you are it’ll always be Penriff Park, Panthers Stadium, Penny Park and so on. If you haven’t been to the ground for a while or simply haven’t given it a second thought, now’s the time to head through the gates and reminisce about the history of the ground. Whether it was the great players that played there, the brilliant tries you saw there or even the time when a couple of club officials fell off the back of the Panthermobile when the back gave out in 2002. Nah it was funny!

Anyway, time is running out before the place is bulldozed so make the most of it.

The National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) competition is growing in popularity with the inclusion of two more teams this year, and it’s showcased players from many different backgrounds. One player who is getting a lot of attention is St.George-Illawarra prop Elsie Albert. She’s the captain of the Papua New Guinea national side and is as much a hero in the homeland as male predecessors including Marcus Bai, Adrian Lam and former Panthers hooker Paul Aiton.

She’s blazing a trail for women’s rugby league in a nation where it’s the national sport.

with GREG YANDA

Shan’t be going there.

I’m not sure you could pay me enough money to play cricket in Pakistan. The Australian cricket team is there for the first time since the 90s and there were death threats soon after their arrival for the test series. Why go back?

There’s plenty of good flat freeways throughout Australia if the Pakistanis were wanting to nullify the Aussie pace attack. Granted, some of them may now have potholes in them but you can always rotate the spinners, right?

And that’s full time.

Nepean News TRADES

43 Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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Celebrity ROUND 2

ROUND 3

MEL stg SYD GCT CRO NQC NEW BUL STG WES SOU PAN MEL CAN BRI MAN SOU pan MAN NZW PAR CAN WES BRI CRO NZW SYD NEW PAR GCT NQC BUL Mar 17 8.05pm

Mar 18 6.00pm

Mar 18 8.05pm

Mar 19 3.00pm

Mar 19 5.30pm

Mar 19 7.35pm

Mar 20 4.05pm

Mar 20 6.15pm

Mar 24 8.05pm

Mar 25 6.00pm

Mar 25 8.05pm

Mar 26 3.00pm

Mar 26 5.30pm

Mar 26 7.35pm

Mar 27 4.05pm

Mar 27 6.15pm

SCORE

Jeff Daniel Watson Galea--Club Adenbrook President, Homes St Marys - 9622 Band 4091 Club - 9623 1211

6 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

4 John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538

8 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

10 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

12 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

10 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400

6 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

8 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211

10 Greg YandaBenard - Sports Journalist, Nepean News Councillor Bratusa

8

TIPSTERS ROUND 2

ROUND 3

MEL stg SYD GCT CRO NQC NEW BUL STG WES SOU PAN MEL CAN BRI MAN SOU pan MAN NZW PAR CAN WES BRI CRO NZW SYD NEW PAR GCT NQC BUL Mar 17 8.05pm

Mar 18 6.00pm

Mar 18 8.05pm

Mar 19 3.00pm

Mar 19 5.30pm

Mar 19 7.35pm

Mar 20 4.05pm

Mar 20 6.15pm

Mar 24 8.05pm

Mar 25 6.00pm

Mar 25 8.05pm

Mar 26 3.00pm

Mar 26 5.30pm

Mar 26 7.35pm

Mar 27 4.05pm

Mar 27 6.15pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ

8 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

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10 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

14 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

8 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

8 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

10 Brock Shepperd - Mounties Rugby League Club - Ron Massey Cup Head Coach, Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

10 Andrew Keen - Penrith Air Supply - 4731 3033

12 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

8 Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets

6

Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

46

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Coach’s Corner I

The Resilience Tested Panthers

n an interview on Fox League’s NRL 360 on Monday night, Ivan Cleary gave a honest insight into the mindset of the Penrith Panthers team as they attempt to win back-to-back NRL Premierships in 2022. ‘We feel like our best football is ahead of us. If there is a secret in how to win back to back titles I hope I know it later in the season’ but the comment that to many would have gone unnoticed was the interesting one for me. ‘I think trying to motivate this team would have been a much more difficult task had we lost to Souths and were coming into the season on the back of two losing Grand Finals, motivating this group after winning the Premiership is not going to be an issue’. This speaks to the culture of the Penrith Panthers organisation, a huge shift to the culture prior to Ivan’s arrival early last decade. People can focus on the wins, the style of play, the super star players, making two Grand Finals in a row but what may be their most important attribute is the resiliency of the playing group.

When you analyse what the Panthers had to overcome to win the 2021 Grand Final you gain an insight into the range of factors which mounted up against them. Injuries, suspensions, a week one loss against South Sydney in the Finals, playing

away from home in a bubble and the fact they had lost the 2020 Grand Final. Despite all of this they then went on to defeat Parramatta in a dramatic and tough match in Week 2. In the preliminary final they defeated the Melbourne Storm who were the red-hot favourites to take the 2021 Premiership.

The Storm also had the benefit of an extra week rest and had defeated the Panthers in the previous year’s Grand Final. The Panthers then revenged their Week 1 defeat in the Grand Final by knocking off South Sydney in another close and grinding match.

The ability to be resilient may be the single most important factor in determining who advances and who is eliminated in professional sports. But how many of us truly understand what resiliency means?

Ultimately, it involves three key principles: 1. Adaptability. Having resiliency means we are agile, can make quick adjustments and are able to adapt to whatever structures needed to achieve the end goal. Look at the range of issues the Panthers have overcome in the last decade. Resilience has become second nature.

2. Persistence. Everyone discusses being persistent and how important it is to unlocking success. But talking about being persistent and living that value define who can truly unlock

Brock Shepperd Mounties Rugby League Club - Ron Massey Cup Head Coach Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

resilience. Without doing something persistently, how do we ever build resilience? When you watch the Panthers defence, look for how persistent they are when in tough situations. They keep moving, they solve problems and they do it consistently for the entire 80 minutes.

3. Learning. People with great resiliency crave knowledge, they want to be challenged and they are constantly looking to improve and get better. This has become somewhat of a mantra at the Panthers club. This is the element which will maintain long term success for the club. Players and coaches consistently stretching themselves to become uncomfortable and to learn new things.

Being resilient is not a matter of throwing out cliches and pleading with our team members to “grind it out.” It means articulating a vision and spelling out how to handle inevitable hardship long before it ever arises. Unless we explain what resiliency means and looks like, we cannot possibly expect our teams to exhibit it. The Panthers lived through and experienced resiliency for many years as they scaled the mountain back to Premiership glory in 2022. But as Ivan Clearly made very clear on Monday night, what the Panthers have built is something that will stand the test of time.

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Synthetic fields keep summer football on track

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Summer Football season, which is run by the Nepean Football Association Inc (NFA) on the recently opened synthetic fields at Jamison Park, commenced on 29th November 2021 and will conclude next week, with the final night the 24th March, 2022 The age groups which compete every season are from U/6 through to All Age. The NFA is located in Penrith and comprises four local government areas, being Penrith City Council, Blue Mountains City Council, Hawkesbury City Council & Wollondilly Shire Council.

The NFA also owns Nepean Representative Football Club (Nepean FC), Nepean Referees Group (NRG) and Nepean Dragons.

Football continues to be very popular in an area which has seen a tremendous growth in population over the last twenty years. With many new suburbs established and continuing to grow, the demand for sporting and recreational facilities is huge.

Nepean Summer Football manager Graham Chapman said “This years summer football has been an outstanding success with over 200

Summer Football in action on the synthetic fields at Jamison Park, Penrith. Photo by Noel Rowsell

teams and 1,500 players enjoying the small sided format. Most sports in our region have been washed out this summer, which is so unfortunate but our summer football season, on the new synthetic fields have played though the inclement weather. Out of 52 nights of football we only lost 4 nights and that was due to dangerous storm activity and local road closures due to flooding.

“Team positions for the NFA

summer football seasons book out very quickly with the next competition bookings opening in July this year.

“Our team is already excited about hosting Summer Football later in the year from September and can’t wait to do it all again,” said Graham.

The synthetic fields were officially opened by Penrith City Council spokesperson Karen McKeown OAM, Nepean Football Association Chief Executive Officer Linda Cerone

and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP on Tuesday, 14 December 2021.

The surface covers an area of 22,000 sqm and includes: 2 x FIFA standard football (soccer) fields, which can accommodate eight small-sided fields; 1 x senior size cricket pitch; 1 x AFL oval; amenities building (toilets only); drinking fountains; spectator boundary fencing (1.5 m high); LED floodlighting and pathway for ease of access.

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Let the games begin!!

W

hat an explosive start to the NRL season of 2022!

It had everything.

The Panthers picked up where they left off with a powerfully demanding display of ‘in your face’ rugby league. Edwards was epic. O’Sullivan busy and affective. Crichton slick and fit. Yeo a captain’s knock to be best on ground. Bring on the Dragons this Friday at 6pm.

Elsewhere around the league we saw our first upset of the season with Kevvie Walter’s Broncos flexing their youthful muscle in a powerful performance to dethrone last year’s grand finalists the South Sydney Rabbitohs 11-4. Good start.

Then the very next game at 3pm Saturday we witnessed an ‘ol fashioned Ambush!” The Newcastle Knights whose trial form was - let’s be honest - ordinary, leaped out of the sheds to best premiership favourites in lots of punters eyes the Roosters 20 points to 6!

Such energy and enterprise from Adam O’Brien’s men. Joey Johns, who is an assistant with the Knights, had his fingerprints all over this major upset.

Other teams to look good from round 1 were the Dragons, Eels, and Dogs.

The Melbourne Storm were the worst hit with the round 1 injury stuck, losing Christian Welch (Achilles - season) George Jennings (ACL- season) and Brandon Smith (broken hand - 4-6 weeks) all in the first game of the year.

Even though we’ve only seen 80 minutes of footy from each thus far in the season of 2022 one gets the feeling that we are about to witness an ebb and flow year like no other! I hope so! Bring it on!

And another thing…..

It’s only early days sure, but the new rule implemented in the off-season where a penalty will be blown instead of ‘6 to go’ when a team infringes on its opposing team coming out of their own end, has already changed the game.

Yes it’s a tad slower, but it allows the big players in the middle to play more minutes. Something I’m a massive fan of.

See you at the game x

MG (random Westie) OAM

S SUNDAY’T JACKPO $9,000 www.panthers.com.au

47 Nepean News 18 March 2022 Issue 325

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