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ree flu shots for NSW residents will be extended until 17 July amid concerns vaccination rates are still not where they should be. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the latest data shows only one in four children aged under five has had a flu shot, while the figures are even lower for kids aged five to 15. “It’s really worrying that just over 18 per cent of children and teenagers have had a flu jab and for kids aged six months to five years, the figure is 25 per cent,” Mr Hazzard said. “These numbers are particularly concerning given in the last month, four times as many kids have been admitted to Sydney’s two children’s hospitals with flu than with COVID.” Mr Hazzard urged families to use the school holidays to book in for a free flu shot. “It only takes a few minutes to get a flu jab but that time could mean the difference between you or one of your loved ones ending up in ICU so please, book in today,” Mr Hazzard said. The uptake of the influenza vaccine in adults is equally worrying, with less than 40 per cent of 50 to 65 year olds and only 64 per cent of those aged over 65 having a flu jab. NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant urged more people to come forward for their influenza vaccination to prevent unnecessary hospitalisations. “More than 1,000 people presented to our EDs

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Dr Shinwari giving former Mayor, Councillor Greg Davies his free flu vaccination at Melville Rd Medical Centre St Clair.

with flu-like illness last week and almost 165 were so unwell they were admitted, including very young children,” Dr Chant said. “Please take advantage of the offer of the free vaccination to protect yourself against the flu this winter. There is plenty of supply and appointments available at GPs and pharmacies.” The low uptake in Sydney’s west and south-west continues to be of concern, Mr Hazzard said.

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Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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Nurses at war

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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During the war, 16 nurses from the Penrith district served overseas with the Australian Naval and Military Expeditionary Force in Rabaul. Penrith City Library’s Research Services team has compiled their stories in the Nurses at War booklet that details their lives and experiences as nurses during this time. You can download your free copy of Nurses at War from www.penrithhistory.com/memories-of-war/penrith-district-nurses/

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r u e C a r M P , Deputy Leader of the Opposition and state member for Londonderry has confirmed she will be running for the seat again at next year’s state election. “It’s official; I’m proud to be endorsed as the NSW Labor candidate for Londonderry!” Ms Car said. “It’s been my privilege to represent our community over the past 7 years. We’ve had some big wins, but there is still so much to do. “This Liberal Government has ignored the needs of our growing community for too long. “I won’t stop fighting until our community has the infrastructure we need such as high schools in Jordan Springs and Marsden Park, stage 2 of Ropes Crossing Public School and an upgrade for Richmond Road.“

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Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Endorsed as Labor’s Candidate

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre supporting patients

hen a person is diagnosed with cancer, the diagnosis brings with it a multitude of complex challenges which affect both the patient and their family. The caring and experienced social workers at the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre understand the many issues cancer can raise, such as financial worries, impacts on selfimage and relationships, keeping the home maintained or managing anxiety and wellbeing. Working as part of the Centre’s psycho-oncology team, the social workers provide specialised care and work with patients and their families to help ease the burden during a most difficult time. Senior Social Worker, Betsy Sajish has helped to support cancer patients and their families for more than fifteen years. She says that while each patient case is different, the ripple effect of cancer on family dynamics and life pressures can culminate to create additional challenges for families. “Whether it’s emotional, social, or financial, everything gets affected

by a patient’s cancer journey. It goes without saying, they are entering a very difficult time. We are here and we can help by offering emotional and practical support to ease the burden for patients and families,” says Ms Sajish. Supporting inpatients and outpatients at all stages of the cancer journey, the social workers can

be thought of as problem-solvers. Examining the issues each family faces and providing psycho-social care through personalised support, resources and referrals to improve wellbeing allows the patient and their family to focus on their treatment and wellbeing. Ms Sajish says common issues that patients and families may experience

during this time include the emotional reaction to having cancer, effectively communicating with children to help ease anxiety, and carer stress and fatigue, typically experienced by the patient’s partner who often becomes the primary carer and advocate. In what can be an emotional and challenging role, Ms Sajish says her colleagues and the patients she supports keep her motivated to continue delivering high quality care. “There is a great team at the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre. Everyone who walks in through those doors does their best for the patient.” “I also have a lovely patient group. The strength that emanates from them makes me want to do my best. You can see how even the small things you do can help them and when you know that you’ve made some contribution to their experience, that’s very motivating,” Ms Sajish says. The social work team can be accessed via referral for patients under the care of the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre.

Extra $408 million to fast-track elective surgery The NSW Government will invest a further $408 million in the 2022-23 Budget to fast-track elective surgeries delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic response. NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said the funding boost will take the Government’s total commitment to reducing wait times to almost $1 billion. “This additional $408 million will make a real difference to patients by bringing their surgeries forward. We will increase elective surgery activity in our public hospitals and continue our collaborative care arrangements with private hospitals, meaning public patients will get faster access to the care they need,” Mr Perrottet said. Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the NSW Government’s investment

will boost staff by 267 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) and open additional theatre lists at some hospitals on evenings and weekends. “I want to thank the community for its patience during this most challenging time. This additional funding will enable the fast-tracking of procedures that were delayed to ensure our health system had the capacity to deal with the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Hazzard said. Minister for Regional Health and Mental Health Bronnie Taylor thanked the hardworking staff right across the state who continued to provide all emergency surgery and urgent elective surgery throughout the pandemic. “This is a credit to our outstanding healthcare workers who worked tirelessly in the most difficult of

circumstances to continue to provide high-quality care,” Mrs Taylor said. “Despite the many challenges that COVID-19 continues to present, and now the flu, thanks to our incredible healthcare professionals we expect elective surgery to be operating at up to 125 per cent of pre-pandemic capacity

at some sites as we seek to address the pandemic delays.” NSW Treasurer Matt Kean said the funding is a boost for the community, but also for the healthcare professionals who provide surgery in NSW. “Each year in NSW, more than 320,000 people have emergency or elective surgery in our public hospitals. By increasing staffing by 267 FTE with this funding, we’re also helping to ease some of the pressure on that dedicated health workforce working so hard to make sure everyone in NSW has timely access to surgical care,” Mr Kean said. “These additional staff will include doctors, nurses and allied health professionals and extra shifts will also be offered to existing staff to allow extra surgery lists to be completed.”

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he NSW Government is supercharging the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector, supporting families with better access to world-class services, through a $281 million package in the 2022/23 Budget. This package is designed to boost the supply of early childhood teachers and educators and includes new higher education and vocational education and training (VET) scholarships of up to $25,000. In addition, there will be employer supplements for staff retention and partnerships with tertiary and VET providers to create new pathways into early childhood careers. Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres said NSW is leading the way on improvements for our youngest learners and their early childhood education, and that having quality educators is key to that. “Early learning professionals are invaluable. The work they do sets our children up for brighter futures, which is why we are making a record investment in the early childhood education and care workforce,” Stuart Ayres said. “Increasing the early childhood workforce will increase access to high quality early childhood education and care, give families greater choice and give more children the best start in life. “I welcome this investment from the NSW Liberals and Nationals that supports families in Penrith and ensures a brighter future for NSW.” Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said this significant investment underscores the commitment of the Liberals and Nationals Government to the ECEC sector and will create lasting benefits now and into the future for

Stuart Ayres MP on a recent visit to Little Zaks Academy in Cambridge Park

NSW children, families and the economy. “I have had many conversations with early childhood teachers and educators, peak bodies, service directors, and stakeholders about the need to invest in our early childhood education and care workforce, and I am so proud that the NSW Government is delivering that support in spades today,” Ms Mitchell said. “Growing and supporting our workforce will help ensure our youngest learners develop strong

educational foundations ahead of starting school and have the opportunity to thrive as lifelong learners.” The system stewardship initiative will also enable the Department of Education to develop the data capabilities to understand key drivers of ECEC access, quality and affordability in NSW. It will also develop an ECEC sector support network to provide more information and support to services.

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Boost of childcare professionals for Penrith

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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Rally sends strong No Incinerator message

lacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM has thanked local residents who gave up their Sunday afternoon to ‘Say No’ to the construction of any large-scale incinerators at Eastern Creek in Western Sydney. At the invitation of Mayor Bleasdale, a large group of local residents gathered at Minchinbury Oval last Sunday to hear from a range of speakers including federal MP and Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Hon Chris Bowen. Speakers at the rally also included Mayor Bleasdale, the Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali, the Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla and representatives from the Greens and the No Incinerators for Western Sydney residents’ group. “We had a range of speakers with a range of views but they were all united in their opposition to building any large-scale incinerators at Eastern Creek.” Mayor Bleasdale said. “Council has been fighting against these incinerators for nearly 8 years. In 2018 plans for an energyfrom-waste incinerator at Eastern Creek were thrown out by the NSW Planning Department and the Land and Environment Court. “In March 2019, then Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on radio that an incinerator would never be built at Eastern Creek and then last year,

Part of the big crowd at Sunday’s Say No to Eastern Creek Incinerator rally.

the NSW Government announced its Energy from Waste Infrastructure policy that clearly ruled out any new energy from waste incinerators being built in proximity of residential areas in Sydney “But now, Next Generation is asking the Land and Environment Court to consider an amended development application for a proposed Incinerator at Eastern Creek. “I can’t explain why, but the NSW Government has simply failed to put its policy announcement into action. Simple regulations would put an end to building these incinerators in the Sydney basin – that’s why we organised the rally to tell the

Government to bring in the regulations immediately,” Mayor Bleasdale said. Minister Bowen described the proposed incinerator as; “This ridiculous, stupid, idiotic proposal.” “This community doesn’t deserve to have an incinerator planted right in the middle of us. It’s not hard, both sides of politics support the ban, they can just do it by regulation, they said they’d do it in a press release, but a press release doesn’t stop an incinerator,” Minister Bowen said. Kim Wright from ‘No Incinerators for Western Sydney’ told the meeting; “The ACT has banned incineration, if it’s not OK for the ACT, it’s not OK for the rest of us.

“Let’s be clear about one thing. Our elected politicians (NSW Government) have the ability to stop this, but they don’t.” Both local Members of NSW Parliament, Edmond Atalla and Stephen Bali said their number one priority was to see the Government bring in the regulations immediately which would prevent any incinerators being built in Western Sydney. Mayor Bleasdale told the rally; “The people of Western Sydney need a ‘full stop’ on these incinerators. New South Wales Treasurer, Matt Kean, you announced the policy, now it’s up to your government to give it teeth, bring in the regulations!”

Mayor Bleasdale addressing Sunday’s Rally.

Edmond Atalla MP

Minister Chris Bowen described the proposed incinerator as “ridiculous and idiotic”

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined Melissa McIntosh, Member for Lindsay and Tricia Hitchen, Penrith City Council Mayor to announce that local sporting clubs and the wider community will benefit from upgrades that are now underway at Doug Rennie Fields. Stuart Ayres said the Doug Rennie amenities building upgrade is set to include two unisex change rooms, an officials’ change room, canteen, storage, accessible toilets, landscaping and spectator seating. “Sport is part of the fabric of the Penrith community and this amenity building upgrade is a win for our local sporting community. “Investing in new and existing sports amenities is vital to ensure players, coaches, volunteers and spectators have the best possible facilities to encourage ongoing active participation.” Penrith Mayor Councillor Tricia Hitchen said Doug Rennie Field was the latest sportsground to receive an upgrade to improve sport and recreation infrastructure across the Penrith LGA. “We want to ensure that everyone in the community has opportunities to participate in sport and other physical activities by having access to high quality facilities,” Cr Hitchen said. “Council values the support of the Australian and NSW Government in partnering with us to deliver these community facilities which are in demand by local sporting groups and residents.” Melissa McIntosh, Member for Lindsay said it’s wonderful that our community will benefit from these much-needed upgrades, particularly local kids

who need active and healthy lifestyles. “I’m pleased to deliver my 2019 election commitment and have all three levels of government working together to ensure great outcomes for our community.” The upgrade is partially funded with $750,000 through the NSW Government’s Greater Cities

Sports Facility Fund with contributions from Penrith City Council and the Australian Government. The Greater Cities Sports Facility Fund saw $50 million awarded to sporting bodies and councils over two years for new and upgraded sports facilities to improve health and wellbeing and to create construction and employment opportunities.

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Doug Rennie upgrade underway

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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St Clair & District Men’s Shed acknowledge contributors By Noel Rowsell

he St Clair & District Men’s Shed had a special presentation at their Australia Post Men’s Lunch on June 2, recognising both Kim Carter and Linda Whittaker for their contribution, along with numerous other people, to the creation of ‘Cecil’s Place’, the forerunner to the current St Clair & District’s Men’s Shed. Shed President Paul Tarlinton and Secretary Andrew Moody made the presentation of certificates. The two ladies were described as warm, effervescent and enthusiastic guests and commented on how far the Shed had progressed from its humble beginnings. Speaking at the presentation to Kim and Linda, Mr Tarlinton said “On behalf of all our members, we sincerely thank and salute you and hope you will delight us with your presence again in the future.”

Kim Carter and Linda Whittaker with Paul Tarlinton and Andrew Moody. Photo supplied.

Penrith City Choir Penrith City Choir has resumed live rehearsals and now meets at Glenbrook Baptist Church on Wednesday evenings during school terms. The choir has operated continuously since 1977, even during the pandemic via Zoom sessions. Three concerts are planned for the remainder of the year, including

a performance of Handel’s Messiah with the Penrith Symphony Orchestra in December. Some experience of choral singing is an advantage but not necessary. Interested singers can register their details online at www.penrithcitychoir. com.au/form.html or phone 0400 516 630.

Peach Tree and Lower Surveyors Creeks flood study

enrith City Council is preparing a Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan for the Peach Tree and Lower Surveyors Creeks and wants to receive local knowledge so the information used to undertake the study is as accurate as possible. “Flooding is a very real issue in many areas of Penrith and Council

wants to make sure its planning includes the knowledge that only locals can provide,” said Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen. “This local knowledge will help us develop realistic and effective plans to reduce the risk and costs of flooding and help people respond in the case of an emergency as well as guiding future development

in the area under examination. “This is why we are contacting residents in South Penrith, Jamisontown and parts of Penrith.” Information surveys have been sent out by mail to all those living within the study area of Peach Tree and Lower Surveyors Creeks catchment, with the survey also available on Council’s website. Residents are

encouraged to complete the survey and return it by 14 July 2022. “The process also looks at making the community more resilient and prepared, including evacuation education and preparation,” Cr Hitchen added. For more information and to download the surveys, go to www.yoursaypenrith.com.au

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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Council commits to innovative road reconstruction plan

enrith City Council is breaking new ground with a commitment to use recycled glass in all future road works. Following a successful trial in Stafford Street, Penrith, where endof-life glass collected from a local supplier was crushed down and used in the road’s asphalt mix, Council will continue to use recycled glass for future road resurfacing works. Council’s review of the trial revealed incorporating glass in the bitumen delivered a win for the circular economy and a more durable road surface. Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said Council is proud to be leading the way in a move that will not only streamline road works in the Penrith Local Government Area but also lay the foundations for a more sustainable circular economy for our City. “Council is always looking for opportunities to improve our services and following the recent flood events which wreaked havoc on Penrith’s roads, we have been eager to implement preventative measures and long-term solutions,” Cr Hitchen said. “Through our commitment to the circular economy by using recycled glass in future road works, we are providing more robust roads for the safety of our residents and

visitors, while contributing to the circular economy at a local level,” she said. This month alone, Council is using recycled glass in projects at three sites – Copeland Street in Kingswood, Jamison Road in South Penrith, and Ninth Avenue, Llandilo. Council will source and repurpose just over 257 tonnes of recycled glass for these projects which form part of

our scheduled road reconstruction works. “I am proud to share that these three projects will save more than 1 million recycled glass bottles from landfill and be put to good use, improving the longevity of our roads and reducing maintenance costs in the years to come,” Cr Hitchen added. “Penrith is encouraging other councils to consider this innovative

plan that will futureproof our roads and is a win for the environment.” During 2020/2021, Council collected 14,965 tonnes of recyclable material from the yellow-lidded recycling bin which was diverted from landfill. Of this, glass currently makes up 30%. Find out more about Council’s Waste Strategy and services at penrith.city/waste

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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

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Why is my dog coughing?

ogs can cough for many reasons. With the COVID-19 threat still persisting, many pet owners worry that their coughing canine companions have contracted the latest coronavirus strain. Despite the almost negligible threat COVID-19 poses for your pooch, kennel cough—or canine infectious tracheobronchitis—is a real risk, and currently extremely common among the canine population. If your four-legged friend has recently returned from yet another walk to the dog park or stayed in a new environment with other dogs, and begun hacking and gagging, kennel cough is likely to blame. How do dogs contract kennel cough? Many different bacterial strains comprise the general term “kennel cough;” however, Bordetella bronchiseptica is the most common strain, which is why kennel cough is often referred to as Bordetella. These bacterial particles can spread easily from dog to dog, or to a dog from a contaminated surface, including kennel areas, food and water bowls, bedding, and leashes. Healthy dogs can contract kennel cough by being

symptoms. However, symptoms generally resolve after approximately 7-10 days. It’s important to keep a close eye on your dog as pneumonia or bronchitis may develop in more serious cases. How can I keep my dog safe from kennel cough? Vaccinate! To help protect against canine cough there is an intranasal, oral or injectable vaccine available. Avoid boarding facilities that do not require proof of vaccinations and be aware that not all dogs attending dog parks will be vaccinated. With proper precautions and appropriate vaccinations, you can greatly reduce your pets’ chance of developing an annoying cough. For more information contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on (02) 4731 3055.

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

xxxx

near a coughing dog, or by coming in contact with a surface contaminated with a sick dog’s respiratory emissions. Dogs most commonly pick up kennel cough from boarding facilities, dog parks, or straying into areas of other dogs. One of the major issues with canine cough is the fact it is highly contagious and can quickly spread. What other diseases can cause coughing? In addition to kennel cough, there many other conditions may cause your dog to cough. To confirm whether your dog’s cough is due to a kennel cough infection, your vet will need to perform a physical exam, and may also suggest blood testing and chest x-rays. Other diseases that cause coughing includes congestive heart failure, heartworm, pneumonia, airway obstruction, collapsing trachea and cancers. What are the symptoms of kennel cough? Typically, the symptoms of canine cough present 3-7 days after exposure to the virus. The key symptoms include a hacking, non-productive cough, gagging, sneezing and/or a runny nose. Some dogs may cough so hard and persistently that they vomit. Getting excited, as well as exercise can worsen

The G Spot

oday I have decided to enlighten you with car security tips. Yep, you got it, I usually charge lots of money for the crap that’s about to pour from my fingertips, however you my avid fans, get it all for free. From what I have gathered over my time on the planet, is that the almighty car can mean many different things to people and at times, I have often wondered why some males have married their wives and not the beloved car. That hunk of metal that you have cashed yourself up to your eyeballs in, that sits (quietly) on the driveway is also the bearer of many of your darkest secrets such as the odd scratch, body gas that could wipe out the state forest and the odd nose pick at traffic lights. Singing Mariah Carey in high C and thinking that you sound great and not to mention the many babies who can give thanks to the backseat. Now before I give you my (what I consider) security expertise my friends, I have often wondered why some people feel the need to name a car like Berty, Prudence or Thumper? Or have personal number plates with “Killer” or “Throbber” on a car the size of my finger nail or not enough vrrrrooom in the engine to kick start a kettle? Yes, I know I am off track, but I just needed to share that with you. Handy hint- want a plate like “Throbber” maybe upgrade from the 1300cc and go to a V8 (Eye wink). Hint one - Nothing quite spells please smash my window and grab me like an iPad, iPhone, navigator,

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

laptop and any other electronic contraption on the planet left on show in your car. Really good idea to take all that crap with you, because nobody except the baddies really care that you own a laptop bigger than Sydney airport’s flight command centre equipment. Oh and take the loose change in the console also. Give it to charity! Hint two - The 11th commandment - Locketh thy car, (Can I get an Amen on that) you would be soooo surprised how many boneheads leave their car unlocked in car parks or driveways and wonder why it got stolen or broken into. We have all been guilty of this; rushed, kids screaming, dog hungry, bottle’o calling your name in 3D, however it is imperative (my big word for the day-Imperative) to lock your car every time you get out of it. (Copy that, roger wilco). Hint three - Car alarm system, now to be perfectly honest, car stereos are not a big thing these days on the stealing scale as most cars come with the brand new one. However, some people do still buy a bells and whistles one. If you are going to have a 6 million dollar car stereo in ya car – probably best to get an alarm installed. Hint four - Okay hands up who leaves car keys in the ignition while getting fuel (Don’t lie, come on you know you do; I can see you reading this with a grin on your face). Okay, well, this deserves the Chuck Norris upper cut award in bronze, because yes folks, cars have been stolen from servos. Take

your keys with you, sorry yeah I know it will add 3 seconds to the fuel up time and take three off your lifespan. This is a big tut tut tut with an index finger point, coming from me and I’m the supposed expert, remember? Hint five - Parking the love machine in a dark place, now unless you are doing a stick up (hold up) drug transaction or some other activity, that we can’t really describe here, it is a great idea to park in welllit areas and where people are around. Hint six - Pimping da ride - (Can I get a hell yeah) you love the $10,000 tyre rims with the Swarovski crystals on each nut, don’t you? Well so do the baddies. If you are going to beef up the bad boy, it may be a good idea to have it as the Sunday ride only, fully garaged (you thought I was going to say fully sick didn’t you?) and also maybe as a handy hinthave a very hungry Pit Bull stapled to the driver’s side door or front bonnet. It’s great that you are spending the equivalent of a mortgage on your car, and starving the family, however, be aware that it will draw as much attention as a state of origin match. Just be aware that it is high on the richter scale for car theft. (Just say’n). So there you have it, Gina’s handy tips on car security, if all else fails..walk. (Cheaper anyway). We won’t laugh at your gr8 personal numbA pl8s ( tick) no animals were injured or stapled during the writing of this article ( tick) and the bottle’o is still calling your name (tick).

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enrith City Council has finalised its Disability Inclusion Action Plan for 20222026 and is ready to begin the Plan’s implementation over the next four years. At the Ordinary Meeting on Monday night, Councillors endorsed the Plan which has 58 actions that will make Penrith more inclusive and support everyone to engage in community life. Councillors also voted to provide additional funding to realise four aspirational ‘stretch’ projects identified as part of the Plan. Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen thanked the Penrith community for taking the time to provide their feedback on the Plan and is now looking forward to seeing it implemented. “We’ve spent the last few months engaging with the community for their feedback and are proud to present a finalised Plan,” Cr Hitchen said. “Every day, people living with disability can experience barriers that prevent them from leading meaningful, independent lives. Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan identifies opportunities for Council in continuing to make Penrith a more accessible and inclusive City for everyone,” she said. The Plan was developed with Council’s Access Committee with input and real-world experiences sought from people living with disability, carers, friends and service providers. The community was invited to share their insights about what’s working and barriers to participation in Penrith. The draft Plan was put on public exhibition, a formal process for the community to provide feedback on Council strategies and plans before they

are adopted, throughout April and May 2022 with the draft Plan receiving a 91% satisfaction rating among participants. In addition to the 58 actions that have been identified to improve access and inclusion across the City, four stretch projects were identified in the

final Plan – a public awareness campaign, autismfriendly playspace guides, a plan to boost meaningful employment for people living with disability, and developing Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plans (PAMP). In wanting to ensure that all projects could be delivered for the benefit of our community, Councillors committed additional funding, enabling all of these aspirations to be met over the next four years. “Thank you to my Councillor colleagues for their generosity and for recognising there is value in these projects – this complements the work Council has been undertaking and through the Plan we will establish ourselves as a leader in our endeavour to create an accessible City,” Cr Hitchen said. “The Plan will not only result in improved outcomes for people living with disability but for the wider community as well. Everyone benefits from increased flexibility, access, and service improvements. “I look forward to hearing more from the community on the projects we will be implementing across Penrith over the next few years.” Council’s work in this space has spanned decades, with the Access Committee celebrating a milestone of 30 years of service in 2022. The Access Committee represent the many facets of living with or supporting those with disability in our community, and provide valuable guidance and practical feedback to Council to inform how infrastructure is developed and programs are delivered to best support access and inclusion in our community. Read the final Plan at penrith.city/disabilityplan

Sue Kennedy - Author Academy By Noel Rowsell

ue Kennedy is the founder and principal of the Author Academy. Her goal with the Academy is to empower a potential writer to become a published author, by guiding them step by step to completing their book. As an author coach and publisher, Sue offers her expertise which has spanned over three decades and she also has an extended team of professionals to assist a budding author. Now in business for more than 30 years, in addition to being an author coach, Sue is also an accomplished writer, editor, publisher, ghost writer and artist. “I always wanted to write,” said Sue. “Everyone has a story and I empower people to bring that story to fruition. “I was at a low point in my life at one stage and considered taking my own life. I looked into the eyes of my two dogs and saw the love and trust they had in me and I realised I had to pull myself together. “I researched, wrote a book and then self-published it, learning how along the way.” Sue wrote three books in a short

Sue Kennedy with students from one of her disability classes at Nepean Community College. Photos supplied

space of time and has now written a further 7 (10 in total), in addition to teaching others how to write and publish. She began teaching seniors, disabled students and small business owners at Nepean Community College, helping them learn and understand the everincreasing digital world. Sue has created many courses and pre-Covid, was teaching 5 days per week and up to 3 courses per day. She also found time to run the Author Academy, run her own publishing company, (The Book Printing Company) and paint. Sue has an online bookstore and holds readers’ summits, the next being during Readers Week in August. She currently has a stable of 20 plus authors in the Academy, including

Jessica Bonham, who has written and published a fantasy fiction trilogy (Unveiled, Awakened and Renewed). “I’ve published 100’s of authors over the years,” said Sue. “At the time of writing my books it would have been so much easier if I had an author coach to show me, teach me, and guide me through the process of writing each of my books. To guide me through each step of getting it ready to publish. I never knew that there was even such a thing as an author coach. As I unpacked my journey, I realised that it was time to share my success and guide others, through a step by step process, to find their soul language which illuminates their path and lights the way for others, by sharing their story through the written word.”

A bout of Breast Cancer in 2019 did little to slow Sue down and following Chemotherapy, a Lumpectomy and Radiation treatment, Sue is doing well and the cancer was removed successfully. Sue also holds painting workshops and says you can achieve ‘healing through art’. She has an Art Therapy Diploma, an Advanced Therapy Diploma and a Clinical Art Therapy Diploma. Sue works extensively with women who have come through trauma and find it hard to stabilise their lives, by giving them the way through their situation through writing and painting.

Sue Kennedy

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Council endorses Disability Inclusion Action Plan

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

ENTERTAINMENT

Crowds flock to

By Noel Rowsell

hirlmere village woke to the enchanting sound of steam whistles, on both Saturday and Sunday morning, for the beginning of each day of the annual Thirlmere Festival of Steam. Just under 8,500 visitors bought tickets to the Railway Museum and Train Rides over the Saturday and Sunday, making this the largestever Festival of Steam held by the Museum. In addition to those ticketed numbers, were the hundreds, if not

thousands of non-ticket holders who visited Thirlmere over the two days of the Festival, just to enjoy the free street parade, market stalls, amusement rides, display of vintage cars and much, much more, including the dramatic departures and arrivals of the various steam engines on their regular trips to either Picton or Buxton.. Street closures were essential and such was the popularity of the event, many visitors had to park over a kilometre or more away from the town centre, just to find parking spaces. Crowds filled the various streets offering food stalls and the market stalls continuously over the two days

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of non-stop action, whilst live music kept the crowd fully entertained, either with the street band or with the various stage performers, including Mahalia Barnes. The Festival of Steam had been scheduled for earlier this year but following the extreme weather event which culminated in Wollondilly being declared a disaster region, Wollondilly Shire Council and Transport Heritage NSW had jointly agreed to postpone the Festival to later in the year. At that time, Wollondilly Mayor Matt Gould said, “This decision was

not taken lightly and has been made in order to respect the integrity of this well-loved event. Whilst this is extremely disappointing for everyone, it does means that the deferred event will not require scaling back and will reflect instead, the grandeur of such a premier steam event for the region.” That proved to be the case and the success of this year’s Festival is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Museum volunteers and staff, along with Wollondilly Council and its employees, along with the many stall holders and exhibitors.

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Festival of Steam

This week in

s e r u t c pi

The cutie on the far left, “Gizmo”- now named Yogi Bear was in pretty rough shape when she was adopted by a local family. She’s got several other dogs she lives with and as you can see she has slotted right in with them!

Every Panther fan around was incredibly proud of our NSW representatives in Sunday’s State of Origin

Aerial view of Luddenham Raceway

Start Ayres MP at the post-budget breakfast joined by Treasurer Matt Kean MP talking about the boost Western Sydney will get as a result of the budget.

‘Girl gang’ out in force at 6am at MG Activ (York Rd Penrith)

Your new rebel sport store is open at Westfield Penrith. Pop in and save with $20 off for every $100 spent! (Today and tomorrow Saturday 2 July 2022)

At Nepean Men’s Shed’s recent Shed Muster Day, $650 was raised through gold coin donations. Last week this money was presented to Royce Simmons, former Penrith rugby player and coach, for his support of dementia research. Royce’s Big Walk.

Prue Car MP had an extra special constituent visiting the office this week; her son Max! “Shout out to all working parents juggling school holidays and work over the next few weeks, you’ve got this,” Ms Car said.

Shaw Oval cricket pitch in Winter, following the deluge of rain earlier in the year

Huge shout out to BIG W Penrith for the generous donation of Art & Craft supplies for the Penrith PCYC’s School Holiday Program!!

NEPEAN HISTORY

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

n the early years of the railway, accidents among their employees were much higher than today. In January 1896 an accident happened to Railway Guard Frederick William Hainsworth. Fred was born in 1849 in Farnley, Yorkshire, England the son of William and Ann Hainsworth (Frankland). At the age of 25 in 1874 Fred was given an appointment for work at Leeds station for the Midland Railway Company. This Company was one of the largest in Britain in the early 20th century, He came to Australia as an unassisted immigrant on the ship ‘Elamang’ arriving at Sydney in March 1877 and was employed in the NSW Railway Department as a porter at Bathurst, also that same year he married Annie Devany at Quirindi (Orange) and they moved to Penrith in 1878 where Fred was employed as a guard on the railway here, where he was known as a good worker and was universally respected by both the Department and his fellow employees. Fred’s accident happened at Bathurst. Fred noticing the door of one of the train carriages was still open as the train started leaving the station, he went along the side and closed it but was caught by some of the bridge timber and wrenched off the train dropping onto the open bridge. He was taken to the hospital where his injuries besides a broken leg were numerous and mostly internal. He recovered consciousness before his death with Annie by his side the whole time. Fred was forty-seven years of age. His body was brought back to Penrith by train and he was buried in St Stephen’s Cemetery at Penrith. The funeral procession consisted of members of the Western Pioneer Lodge I.O.O.F., his fellow employees and the principal Officers of the Railway Department as well as several leading citizens, but it was not as large as it would have been due to the notification of his passing not reaching many of Fred’s old friends who did not know he had died until after he was buried. Annie was left with eight children, their ages ranging from about 19 to a baby. Fred’s life was insured for £200 and a comfortable family cottage in Belmore Street in Penrith. Another death of a well-known Emu Plains family man Henry James Cornell was accidentally killed on the railway line at Parramatta in April 1922. Henry was born at Emu Plains in June 1865 to William and Harriett Cornell (Farrant). In September 1896 at the age of 31 Henry married Christina Willis at the Holy Trinity Church Newtown (Erskineville). The family resided in Argyle Street at Parramatta and Henry had been engaged for some time as a ganger. Henry was working in the vicinity of Parramatta station and finishing work as usual at five o’clock, he went to the tool house and locked his tools away. Immediately after he set out along the railway line in the direction of his home and not far from the bridge spanning Church Street he was struck by the train from Richmond that was due at Parramatta about seven minutes past five and was thrown clear of the line. The train was immediately brought to a standstill and showed that Henry’s feet and legs were hanging over the embankment with the rest of his body on the pathway at the side of the line and when he was picked up he was pronounced dead. Although his flesh was not torn he had sustained terrible injuries and Henry’s body was conveyed to Parramatta Morgue. Just prior to the accident, Henry’s son was standing on the corner of Church and Argyle Street and he saw his father leave the western end of the railway bridge on his way home. Almost immediately after he learned that an accident had occurred, he raced to the spot fearing his father might be the victim. His fears, alas, were soon confirmed. Just how Henry happened to be on the line is not quite clear as a western bound train left Parramatta station three minutes past five and Henry walked up behind it but this train had passed the one

Photo of the 1930’s Penrith Coal Loader courtesy of Australian Railway Historical Society

from Richmond near the bowling green and as the accident occurred a few yards from the bridge, Henry must have had a clear view of the line. The only solution is that Henry was deep in thought and crossed over or was already walking on the up-line unconscious of the train’s approach. Sometimes Henry would ride home with the assistant ganger on a railway tricycle but on this occasion the assistant ganger got away before the western train. At other times Henry was in the habit of walking along the line as he did on this ill-fated day. Although severely dented, Henry’s watch was still working when taken from his clothing by Constable Vogel. Henry had been in the railway service since he was sixteen years old and had been working around Parramatta for many years. It is stated that just prior to the fatality, Henry was in his usual good health and spirits. He was 56 years of age and was buried at Rookwood Cemetery in the Anglican section. The last sad accident in November 1924 was that of a young man from St Marys named Hilton Russell Francis who was killed at Penrith railway yard in a railway pit. Hilton was born at St Marys in 1895 to Harry and Alice Frances (Morrison) who were married in 1890 at Ashfield. Hilton was a casual worker assisting to elevate some coal, and for this purpose was standing in the pit with the upper portion of his body out of the pit and leaning across between the front and back wheels of a truck when the truck moved and crushed his arm and body and he died before he reached the hospital. The Coroner’s Report stated that Hilton, 28 years of age had “sustained spinal injuries accidently received through being crushed by a moving truck while working at the Railway Coal elevator at Penrith Railway”. Dr Higgins was in attendance and the Coroner was Mr Judges. Hilton is buried at St Mary Magdalene Anglican cemetery at St Marys. At that time, Hilton was the youngest son of his widowed mother Alice. Hilton’s dad Harry was an Alderman on St Marys Municipal Council in 1914 and the stepbrother of Mr R T Ball (Minister for Works). Harry worked in his younger days for the Bennett Brothers coachbuilding firm in St Mays and afterwards was employed by George T Bennett as a wheelwright where he was working at the time of his death from congestion of the lungs at the age of 48 years and is also buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery. The family lived in Putland Street at St Marys. Photo of the 1930’s Penrith Coal Loader courtesy of Australian Railway Historical Society.

Sources: Nepean Times, Trove, Ancestry, Find a Grave website, 1961 English Census, BDM Register (NSW),Sydney-Australia Cemetery Headstone Transcriptions (1837-2003),Sydney-Australia Anglican Parish Registers (1814-2011), Australia-Marriage Index (1788-1950),Coroners Index (1821-1937).

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Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Railway Deaths

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS The real estate market is transitioning from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

he real estate market is transitioning from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market. Prices are starting to come down which is a normal part of the property cycle after the last 20 months of booming prices. Prices are driven by demand, which usually reduces when money (loans) become more expensive. Interest Rates Rises The Reserve Bank (RBA) has increased the official cash rate interest rate by 0.75 percent during May and June to now be 0.85 percent. The rate was previously set at historical lows to keep demand and the economy strong. Now we have high inflation for the first time in Australia for 23 years. History shows high inflation usually follows times of free and (ultra) cheap money supplied into the economy. The RBA think inflation will continue to climb this year due to the increasing costs of living from higher energy, fuel, food and rent etc. The RBA will continue to increase the variable interest rate in order to reduce overall demand which usually reduces prices eventually. The big problem currently is most of the price increases are being caused by overseas influences (war, covid supply

problems and historic supply of free money put into the American economy for example). So how far will the variable rates increase? The RBA and economists have different predictions that range from more increases of anywhere between 0.75 percent to 1.50 percent on top of the two increases over May and June. Expect the next rise in July and more this year as well. There are some “experts” who also think that the RBA will increase too much too soon and could cause a recession in 2023. Depending on how high inflation is above the RBA’s target of a maximum of 3 percent, the RBA may then start to decrease rates around mid-2023. So, is it too late to fix my home interest rate? Yes is the short answer. Fixed rates have been increasing since August with large increases over the last 2 months. Most lenders now have their 1 year fixed rates at over 3.50 percent, 2 year rates over 4.0 percent and 3 year rates over 4.50 percent. If you are paying over 3.10 percent approximately for your home loam, you should be talking to your lender firstly to see how prepared they are to keep your business. Then you should be talking to me (or your trusted mortgage broker) to see what other lenders can offer you. It is still possible to secure variable rates as low as 2.72% currently which can save you thousands in

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interest each year. And speaking of mortgage brokers, if you have a good one, then they would have been speaking to you over the last 12 months to discuss your situation and fix in a portion of your debt. This time last year, you could get a fixed rate under 2 percent for up to 4 years. If your mortgage broker wasn’t communicating this with you, then in my opinion you need a more proactive broker who has your interest at heart and helps you save money when possible. Lenders never contact their clients and recommend that you should ever fix your loan or recommend anything of course. Rents increasing. As less people buy property to live in and investors buy less property to rent out, rents always rise. It appears local rents haven’t increased as much yet as rents in regional areas of NSW, Queensland and Melbourne at this stage, but I expect local rents will keep increasing due to the low vacancy rates. Vacancy rates are dropping as well so you will find it harder to secure a property, especially houses. Sydney vacancy rates are now under 2 percent which indicates a supply shortage. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp. com.au if you want to discuss your situation or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

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SPORT By Noel Rowsell

he Nepean H o c k e y Association sent a very young side to the NSW Boys U/15 Field State Championships in Grafton on 1719th June, hoping to have a great tournament and enable the young players to learn from this great opportunity. The composite Nepean team consisted of just 5 boys who were U/15’s, 5 x U/13 boys and 2 boys who are still U/11 players. The first game against Illawarra was also the boys’ first game together as a team and although they played strongly throughout, a late goal from a short corner would see Illawarra win 1-0. Game 2 against Orange ended in a 1-1 draw, with the boys stepping up in Game 3 to record a great 3-0 win over Hunter. Game four was against the home team Grafton, which ended in a 2-1 loss for Nepean and an overall finishing position of 4th, albeit qualifying the team for the semi-finals and a re-match with Illawarra. Nepean scored first in the semi-final, with Illawarra equalling just before half time to lock the score up at 1-1.

Team photo and action from Grafton. Photos supplied. Back Row: Karen Canning (Manager), CJ Honeman, Cody Rutten, Campbell Wilson, Harrison Canning, Hugh Niblett, Xavier Canning Front Row: Elijah Eagleton, Julian Castle, Jonathan Price, Riley Justin, Beau Hughan, Tremayne Schmitt, Krys Dempster (Coach)

Two disallowed goals for Nepean in the second half would ultimately allow Illawarra to escape with a 1-1 draw and, being the higher-placed team, move on to the Final. “A special mention goes to our three older boys Campbell Wilson, Harrison Canning and Cody Rutten, who all displayed great leadership and sportsmanship,” said coach Krys Dempster. “They now leave this age group to move up to U/18’s. “Also a special mention to the youngest player Xavier Canning, who at 10 years of age put on the goalie pads and had an awesome tournament, only conceding 5 goals.

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Nepean Hockey Association finishes 3rd at State Championships

“This team showed pride in representing the Nepean Hockey Association and displayed great respect and sportsmanship towards officials and fellow players, finishing the tournament in 3rd position.” The Nepean Under 15’s girls played their State championship in Parkes from 27th- 29th May and were unlucky not to win a game. Fielding a predominantly U13 team, Nepean improved each game, over the duration of the Championships, against older opponents. Nepean lost 1-0 to Canberra, 3-0 to Sydney East, 1-0 to Bathurst, 5-0 to New England and 1-0 to Parkes.

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Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

SPORT

Pennant Golf enters playoff stage By Noel Rowsell

ennant Golf has dominated conversation over the past week, with some clubs targeting Pennant flags whilst others were fighting to stave off relegation. Major Pennant golf resumed with two crucial games for local clubs, with Penrith away to Cronulla and Twin Creeks away to Liverpool. Penrith took the upper hand in their 2-game series, defeating Cronulla 4-3 away from home and are now in the box seat when the two clubs meet again in Penrith for the second leg on 10th July. Twin Creeks suffered a huge 6-1 loss to Liverpool away from home and will need to reverse the result to have any chance of taking out the 2-game series. It does however appear to be heavily in favour of a Liverpool victory and Twin Creeks dropping to second division in 2023. Other Major Pennant games were not scheduled to start until next

Jonah Metuangara and Blade Gadd both won their matches against Cronulla on Sunday. File photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Sunday, when Glenmore Heritage Valley head to Bayview and Leonay host Randwick. In Master Pennant, the local derby between Springwood and Leonay was played at North Ryde GC and went in

favour of the mountain men by 4-53.5, who now move on to the Final and have also won promotion in 2023. Stonecutters Ridge met hot favourite Monash at Asquith, falling 7-1.

Nepean News TRADES

In Relegation games from Master Pennant, Twin Creeks fell 5-3 to Kogarah and will drop back to Division 2 in 2023, whilst Wallacia fell 4.5-3.5 to Marrickville and will drop back to Division 4 in 2023.

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SPORT By Noel Rowsell

hirteen local juniors will compete for the NSW Junior Golf Championships next week, which are being held at Byron Bay GC and Ocean Shores GC from 5th-8th July, 2022. Stonecutters Ridge GC will again provide the majority of western Sydney players, with Annoushka Maikap, Michelle Yang, Ruby Ison, Cooper Ison, Darcy Mackay, Kade Webber, Zayne Meincke and Ryan Cadle, who will be joined by Noah Reitsma (Wallacia CC), Blake Hodges (Dunheved / New South Wales GC) and three local residents who are all members of Concord GC, being Grace Lee (Glenmore Park), Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) and Tyler Nesci (Leonay). Leading contenders include Grace Lee, who is coming off a runaway win in the Girls division of the CHSSA Championships in Yamba, along with Coby Carrruthers, who had a Top Ten finish in the Boys division of the same event.

Coby Carruthers (left) supplied by Golf NSW. Grace Lee (right) provided by JNJG

Grace Lee’s runaway victory at CHS & All Schools Championships

Grace Lee in action. Photos supplied by Golf NSW By Noel Rowsell

race Lee (Glenmore Park / Concord HS / Concord GC) and Jeffrey Guan (Kareela / Endeavour HS / The Australian GC) have both recorded runaway victories at the NSW CHS and All Schools Golf Championships, which were played at Yamba from 20-22nd June. Grace was far too strong in the Girls Championship, leading from start to finish over the three days and was the only girl to finish under

par, with an outstanding total of 211 (8 under), 8 shots clear of Charlotte Perkins (Endeavour Sports HS) and Ella Scaysbrook (Macquarie College) in 3rd. Guan is ranked as one of Australia’s leading juniors and claimed his third consecutive win at the Championships, finishing 7 shots ahead of his nearest rival William Moody, followed by Chun-Ta Wu (c/back). Jeffrey shot a three-round total of 206 (10 under par), William 213 and Chun-Ta 213 (c/back).

Grace Lee & Jeffrey Guan - Winners of the Girls & Boys Divisions respectively.

Western Sydney junior Chayse Thorpe (Colo HS / Lynwood CC) finished in a tie for 7th on +4, whilst another local Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / St Dominics College / Concord GC) finished 9th on +5. Chayse and Coby both qualified for the Final 16 on Thursday, which decided the top 6 boys and 6 girls to represent NSW at the School Sports Australia Golf Championships. In the Final 16, Grace continued her relentless pressure at the top of the Leaderboard, eventually winning

with a comfortable 6-shot margin to Michelle Bang and 8 shots clear of Ella Scaysbrook. Jeffrey took his foot off the pedal to a degree in coasting to a four-round total of 278, allowing William Moody to close to within 2 shots at 280, followed by Chun-Ta Wu on 284. The Tony Stair Challenge, contested by CHS, CIS and CCC, was taken out by the CHS Team, featuring western Sydney locals Grace Lee and Ryan Cadle (The Ponds / The Ponds HS / Stonecutters Ridge GC).

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Locals out in force for NSW Junior Championships

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

SPORT

Three times a charm for Jessica Fox

Jessica Fox Wins WK1 Gold in Slovenia. Photos courtesy of Balint Vekassy (ICF) By Noel Rowsell

lympic champion Jessica Fox continues to dominate on the ICF World Cup circuit, taking her third consecutive K1 crown in Ljubljana-Tacen, Slovenia. This latest win was an emotional one for Jessica, who had been feeling ill before her K1 final but still managed to record a time quick enough to see her secure her third World Cup gold medal for the season. Jessica said her run was far from perfect, but she was proud of what she achieved under the circumstances. “Today’s been a bit emotional because it’s been a real mental battle,” Jessica said. “I was feeling really ill this morning and vomiting, so to actually make the final and then pull it out in the final and keep pushing to the finish, I’m so proud of that run, I can’t quite believe I won today. “It wasn’t perfect, but often it never is, you’ve just got to keep composed and keep pushing. I felt like it was quite an ugly run, but the time was still solid.” Jessica finished 2.78 seconds ahead of Great Britain’s Mallory Franklin, with Ukraine’s Viktoria Us taking the bronze. The World Cup WK1 standings after the first 3 events have Jessica at the top of the ladder on 160 points, ahead of Tereza Fiserova (CZE) 126, Viktoria Us (UKR) 120, Mallory Franklin (GBR) 118 and Ana Sitila (BRA) 116. The next World Cup meet is in Pau, France from 26th-28th August, followed by the Final in La Seu, Spain from 2nd-4th September.

Selfie by Jessica at the event in Slovenia

Representative school sport fees covered for nsw students Student access to representative school sport will be increased through a $1.2 million investment to fund local and state sports association affiliation fees in 2022 for every student in NSW public schools. Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the move would both reduce the financial burden on families and the administrative burden on schools.   A 2021 Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne study showed half of Australian children had participated in less organised sport and other physical

activities since COVID-19, with one in three doing a lot less or no sport. Cost was one of the main reasons cited by parents for failing to re-engage with sport, Mr Ayres said. “By directly funding the sports associations we are making access to sport more equitable and inclusive, taking away cost as an obstacle for families,” Mr Ayres said. Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said there was a significant administrative burden associated with collecting and handling these affiliation fees, as schools collected the funds from parents/carers and then reallocated the

funds to the associations. “Under the new arrangement, students at smaller schools and schools for specific purposes that traditionally did not take part in representative sport due to the administrative burden will now able to experience the chance to play for their schools and regions,” Ms Mitchell said. “These changes align with our commitment under the Quality Time Action Plan to cut red tape in schools by 20% in low-value administrative tasks by the end of 2022.”   The Representative School Sport Pathway provides students access to representative pathways in a range

of sports. Schools affiliate with their local and state sports associations and are charged fees to cover costs for the delivery of the pathway.   Ms Mitchell said the link between student wellbeing, academic success and physical activity was well known, and the department would continue to promote high-quality sport and physical activity opportunities for students.   “We want to return to pre-COVID levels of participation and uptake of sport and physical activity at school, at home and in the wider community, and this funding injection is one way we can help make that a reality.”

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

anthers on the Prowl, the Penrith Panthers community development foundation, is working hard to raise awareness and open the conversation around male mental health through a life-changing and world-first group mentoring program. Starting on Friday 1 July, 40 Year 10 students from Cambridge Park High School, Kiama High School, Kingswood High School and Springwood High School will complete a gruelling 24-hour challenge; a continuous walk around BlueBet Stadium in the lead-up, during and after the Panthers’ blockbuster match against the Sydney Roosters on Friday night. Panthers of the Prowl, Building Young Men Co-ordinator, Brogan Mulhall said, “The 24-hour challenge is designed as a modern-day rite of passage for our boys. For many ancient indigenous communities, the transition from boy to man is considered vital and essential. However, in western society, rites of passage are often non-existent and replaced by risk-taking behaviours, including gang violence, anti-social behaviours, and alcohol and drug use.” Now in its sixth year, the 24-hour challenge is part of the Building Young Men Program (BYM), that runs over 20 weeks and involves group mentoring sessions with local male mentors and role models, including local businessmen, Panthers players, directors and staff. “The overall aim of the program is to educate the young men to embrace and understand a ‘real’ version of themselves that focuses on respect, compassion and courage. Through the group mentored experiences like the 24 Hr Challenge, the boys build resilience and emotional strength, whilst learning how to create quality relationships

and develop a strong connection to community; all vital protective factors against poor mental health,” said Mulhall. “Group mentoring creates a safe and powerful space where young men can openly talk about the challenges they face in the transition to manhood. The BYM program aims to provide strong male role models for those most in need.” “In terms of our BYM project, we are only just scratching the surface of its potential for change in male mental health, and with additional funding we plan to take this program to even more schools in the local community and beyond.”

www.panthers.com.au

Nepean News 1 July 2022 Issue 332OWDIG

Panthers On The Prowl – 24 hour challenge: helping build young men