Nepean News 20 February 2020 by Nepean News

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t e e w s h g i h y Fl Charlotte Little three year old Charlotte Rochfort of Mt Riverview has sadly lost her battle with brain cancer. Rest In Peace beautiful girl. Tribute: Page 10

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hree key projects delivering improved health and water quality to the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers have been approved under the Morrison Government’s $100 million Environment Restoration Fund. Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley, Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh and Senator for Western Sydney, Marise Payne visited the banks of the Nepean River on Monday to finalise the $511,000 investment in healthier waterways and improved native vegetation. Projects include the upgrade of weed management infrastructure such as weed booms, weed removal, and the revegetation of native riverbanks working with indigenous rangers. Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, is pleased that the project is getting underway after fighting to secure the funding last year. “I’m proud that this project is ready to begin. Last year, I stood by our river to announce this funding and it has been a passion of mine and our community,” Ms McIntosh said. “Every day groups such as the Nepean Rowing Club and local families use our river for their health, enjoyment and well-being. I am delighted to see their efforts supported. Our local councils alongside Muru Mittigar will be on the ground delivering this important infrastructure and I look forward to seeing the project get underway and deliver real results”

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Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne said the funding represented a strong commitment to the people of Western Sydney and to the importance of urban environments. “This is very much about working with local communities who care passionately about their local environment,” Ms Payne said. Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley said that local environmental actions such as these play a key role in highlighting the importance of protecting landscapes and waterways. “The environment is not something that is ‘out there’, it is all around us and our local river systems, along with the vegetation and wildlife they support, are a major focus.”

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Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Investing in healthier waterways

From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

f you’re as old as I am, you grew up singing along and knowing the words to all the ads on TV - because remotes and fast-forward buttons were unheard of.

And if you are a Gen Xer like me, or older, chances are you sang along to this little jingle: We love football, meat pies, kangaroos and holden cars. And if you’re as patriotic as me, you’ll feel a lump in your throat right now at the news of Holden’s US parent company General Motors this week announcing it would retire the iconic Holden brand and close down its Australian operations. I feel sad now hearing and watching that advertising jingle, as incredibly simple as it was, because it has reminded me of back when we had a clear identity and we weren’t afraid to be proud of it. These days brand Australia has been sabotaged by those who want to say patriotism equals racism, blocks out globalism and all the rest of the rot those nutters want to run with. I know as an Aussie kid I always felt proud to be as Aussie as footy, pies, roos and Holdens... didn’t you? None of those things represented any kind of evil view towards anything. Put the obvious advertising aside, and it was a simple message: we all love Australia and the things that make us unique. Every time one of those things goes walkabout, it’s like another gum leaf gets ripped off our once luscious tree. Scomo couldn’t catch a break right now even if I threw him one. We are living in a time where absolutely everything that happens is somehow supposedly his fault. But not this time. Holden reps were saying years ago that they were unable to survive as a manufacturer if they weren’t competitive. And while there were many factors involved and I’m not suggesting this was the sole reason for failure, they weren’t looking at Scomo to give them a break, they were needing to address the production costs. It’s all well and good to fight to protect workers’ rights, but all the rights under the sun aren’t worth a razoo if the company supplying the jobs shuts down. RIP Holden. The end of an era.

local news

enrith Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM has announced that Council has received a $400,000 grant to develop a Green Grid Strategy for Penrith. “We are delighted to have secured this funding which will enable Council to develop a strategic plan for Penrith that details a proposed network of high-quality green spaces across our City,” said Cr Fowler. “The Green Grid strategy will develop a framework to support active transport opportunities and connect vibrant community open spaces, water ways, bushland, schools, public transport and town centres - to help make these more accessible for everyone,” he added. Speaking at Penrith City Council’s Cooling the City Masterclass event, Cr Fowler said that Council had received the grant under the NSW Government’s Metropolitan Greenspace Program, which is administered by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment. As the sometimes ‘hottest place on the planet’ during summer, Penrith knows first-hand the complexity of challenges when it comes to urban heat. “It’s exactly why Council decided to run this Masterclass event, to bring key stakeholders and leading professionals together, to explore solutions to Sydney’s urban heat dilemma,” explained Cr Fowler. Penrith City Council General Manager, Warwick Winn, said that the development of the Green Grid strategy is another key step in tackling

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith urban heat, because it will create principles that can be applied to other areas that are undergoing growth and development to maximise green cover. “The Green Grid strategy will outline how to increase canopy and retrofit solutions to older suburban areas, as well as those undergoing urban renewal. It will help us enhance natural areas and boost outcomes for local residents and importantly, create a roadmap for Council for our future actions,” explained Mr Winn. “It will also provide opportunities to work with other councils in Western Sydney, who are similarly challenged by urban heat,” he added. The Penrith Green Grid Strategy is anticipated to be complete by June 2021. It will also build on existing strategic work already undertaken by Council. This includes strategies for Cooling the City, Sport & Recreation, Accessible Trails and Street & Park Tree Management.

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

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Council receives Green Grid Grant Creative Designs

MELISSA McINTOSH MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LINDSAY Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750 02 4722 0600 melissa.mcintosh.mp@aph.gov.au melissamcintosh.com.au MelissaMcIntoshforLindsay Authorised by Melissa McIntosh MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Ground Floor, 331 High Street, Penrith NSW 2750.

local news

enrith City Council has been recognised by the Australian Army at its employer appreciation event at Holsworthy Barracks for the services of Army Reservists on staff at Council. For the first time in Australia’s history, the GovernorGeneral of Australia, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), approved the Call Out of Australian Army Reservists to provide additional support to state and local authorities to assist fire-affected areas. Reservists have been involved in supporting fire break tasks, clearing debris and fallen trees, and assist civilian authorities with door knocking and evacuation support in directly threatened areas. Operation Bushfire Assist was enacted by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in response to a worsening bushfire threat that has dominated the landscape of the Blue Mountains, the North and South Coasts along with the nation’s capital. In addition to Reservists a number of Penrith Council staff are Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service volunteers and have seen active service as the state is gripped with an unprecedented fire emergency. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Council’s contribution to the emergency response has seen it offer support in a variety of ways. “The coordinated response by Council staff has been tremendous throughout the bushfires,” Cr Fowler said. “We have quite a number of staff who are volunteers with their local brigades assisting with the bushfire efforts along with SES volunteers too. “Operationally, Council has been able to send specialist staff to Blue Mountains City Council where they have worked together to provide essential services to residents and ensure the safety of the community.” The call out for Reservists has since been revoked, coming into effect February 7, 2020 where numbers will be reduced while the ADF will continue to directly support bushfire affected communities with its full-time forces and volunteer reserves.

Major General Kathryn Campbell, AO, CSC, Brigadier Mick Garraway, AM and Rear Admiral Brett Wolski AM pictured with Council’s Security and Emergency Management Coordinator, Laurence Cafarella.

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Council staff on duty with Bushfire Assist

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

local news

Glenbrook couple celebrate platinum anniversary

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith met with Stanley and Beryl Callaghan of Glenbrook to congratulate them on their 70th wedding anniversary. The couple met dancing in the streets of Penrith while celebrating the end of World War 2 on August 15, 1945. When Stan was sent to Japan for 18 months, between 1946-48, with the BCOF (British Commonwealth Occupation Force) they continued their relationship via long distance by writing letters to each other. The couple married on February 18, 1950 and spent a couple of their early years in Canberra before settling in Glenbrook where they remain today. Stan and Beryl have 8 children, 26 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. Stan was the 1st President of the St Vincent de Paul in Glenbrook. He was

also part of the volunteer group that built St Finbars 2nd Church (now the Church hall). He has also served on many charitable committees within the community. Beryl volunteered for many years on charitable committees, most notably, for Meals on Wheels & St Vincent de Paul shop & is still an active member of the CWL (Catholic Womens League) & the St Finbars Fun Singers who sing monthly to the residents of the Buckland Nursing Home. “I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to Mr & Mrs Callaghan. This is a very special occasion that will mean so much to them, their family and friends. I hope their day is filled with wonderful memories of their lives together. I wish them both good health and happiness for the future,” said Stuart Ayres.

Participants sought for RAW Challenge

By Noel Rowsell

enrith PCYC is currently looking for participants to attend this year’s RAW CHALLENGE in Doyalson, NSW on

7th March. Raw Challenge hosts a range of outdoor obstacle events catering to over 50,000 participants each year. The events encompass a range of courses designed to test participant’s strength, stamina, mental toughness and agility, as they bring together fun and fitness to give you a great sense of achievement. Participants can choose to walk or run each track and make the course as hard or easy as they desire. Athletes can time themselves as they run and conquer all obstacles while others may choose to walk with friends and at times may bypass obstacles. The PCYC Penrith is a big supporter of the RAW Challenge each and every year and is hoping to attract another large turn-out at Doyalson.

All Penrith registrations go back into the Club’s youth activities and is a chance for the community to support our local Club. The RAW Challenge is a team event and a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to get out of their comfort zones and experience something different. The RAW Challenge has been running for 5 years at Doyalson, with an average number of 30 people entering from the Penrith District each year (65 in 2019). Anyone wishing to register for the event should head to eventbrite.com.au and search PCYC NSW Raw Challenge or contact David Gitz on 0490 431 601 for further information. A variety of food and beverages will be available on the day and participants and spectators are requested to please bring cash, as most stalls will not have EFTPOS machines. A contribution from each ticket sale will support a PCYC club of your choice and if you aren’t currently a member, just choose any PCYC Club in NSW to show your support.

Tips for day include: Tape your shoes so you don’t lose them in the mud. Bring a spare change of clothes as you will get wet and muddy - cold showers are available to wash off the mud. Entry and Parking Raw Challenge entry is through the northern end of the Doylo RSL (Doyalson Wyee RSL Club) (next door: Pacific Highway, Doyalson, NSW 2262) and car parking is available in the Doylo car park. PCYC is a registered charity, serving the community and improving opportunities for young people for almost 80 years. Across our network of 63 clubs, PCYC delivers an extensive range of fun, safe and supervised programs and activities to young people and the broader community. PCYC is a unique partnership with the NSW Police Force and provides the resources to support police officers in their case management of young offenders and youth at risk of offending and meaningful crime prevention programs. www.pcycnsw.org.au

› Man dies following single-vehicle crash – Glenbrook A man has died following a singlevehicle crash last Thursday. Just before 11pm on Thursday 13 February, emergency services were called to Wascoe Street, near Lennox

Street, at Glenbrook, following reports a car had crashed into a tree. The driver, a man believed to be aged in his 40s, was pulled from the vehicle and, despite attempts to revive

him, died at the scene. He has not been formally identified. Officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command established a crime scene and commenced an

investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

local news By Jim Devine

omenic Meduri, is a busy man. Domenic and his family are getting ready to open a new McDonalds restaurant at Cranebrook at the end of March. Yet, at the beginning of the month, Domenic is still finding time to provide a scholarship to the student who wins the Regional Final of the Lions Youth of the Year Program; a contest for High School students, who are 15-19 yearsold. Domenic has already provided a $250 scholarship for the Lions Club of Emu Plains, won by Angus Crozier, of Penrith Anglican College, at last Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Final and he is backing it up with a $500 scholarship for the Regional winner; to be decided out of Angus, sponsored by Emu Plains Lions Club, Rose Lombardo of Cambridge Park High, sponsored by Cambridge Park Lions and Laine Fox of Kingswood High, sponsored by Penrith Lions. Those three students will compete in the Regional Final at Leonay Sports Club on Sunday March 1, undergoing a morning interview before Deputy Mayor, Karen McKeown, local lawyer, Paul Bell and Michele Ellery, Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club President Elect and followed by an afternoon session of public speaking. For any information on the Youth of the Year Program, please contact Jim Devine, the Regional Chairman, Youth of the Year Program, c/- Lions Club of Emu Plains, jimdevine@bigpond.com or 0427 110 061

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Dom Meduri: Always supporting our regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth

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Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

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Little Charlotte loses her enormous battle

By KeRRIE DAVIES

It really doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any more devastating than reporting this news. Three year old Charlotte Rochfort fought a very courageous fight against an Embryonal Tumour, but sadly the dreaded brain cancer recently took this beautiful little girl away. It has been a devastating outcome for the Mt Riverview family, who have watched their sweet little girl go through more challenges in her short life than most adults face in a lifetime. Over Christmas, Charlotte endured a vigorous radiation program and hopes were sky high that the results of an MRI early in 2020 were going to deliver some great news. Tragically, the results were the opposite. Life sure can be incredibly cruel. We were first introduced to Charlotte when we featured her story last September. At the time, along with their caring friend Karen, we asked our readers to dig deep and help Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents spend time with her in hospital without worrying about how their bills were going to get paid while being off work. And dig deep you did, raising many thousands of dollars. The family wishes to pass on their gratitude to you all. Sweet Charlotte, you inspired an entire region as we watched you fight this horrific illness, smiling through the unbearable reality of it all. We send love and our heartfelt condolences to the Rochfort family.

local news Once again, St Marys Rugby League Club will be giving two young local students the opportunity of a lifetime...to participate in the fully funded Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge, trekking the Kokoda Trail in late September 2020.

ow in its 15th year, the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge program aims to create a greater awareness of the sacrifices of the Diggers on the Kokoda campaign among our young people, to ensure the tradition lives on. At the same time, it instills in its participants a commitment to community service and enhances their personal development by providing an opportunity for them to experience the same conditions under which our Diggers fought. It is a transformational experience for those that have been lucky enough to participate and one that St Marys Rugby League Club is proud to support and offer 2 lucky students. Last year’s Trekkers were selected from an incredibly high calibre of applicants with Club President Warren Smith saying, “Every year, the applicants just seem to be even more impressive, the final 2 we selected impressed us enormously and we were thrilled to sponsor them on this lifechanging Trek”. The 2019 Trekkers were 17-year-old Katie Dal Santo from Penrith Christian School and Connor Burke, also 17, from Jamison High School. Both Katie and Connor returned from the trek with a completely different perspective and ready to take on their final year of high school with gusto. Reflecting on her experience, Katie commented “I’ve come back home with so much more confidence and memories and feel honoured to

be a custodian of Kokoda and pass on my new knowledge of Kokoda to others. Mum said I have this new confident aura around me; I haven’t really stopped talking since I got home!” If you know a year 10, 11 or 12 student that has a passion for the history of Kokoda, is committed

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

2020 Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge

to their local community and is a future leader in the making, encourage them to talk to their school. Application forms have been sent to 25 local schools and final interviews will take place before the end of Term 1 with the 2020 Trek booked for September 26th – October 7th this year.

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Legends of the Nepean Victor Brangwin By Noel Rowsell

he Brangwin surname is synonymous with the history of St Marys, with Victor’s greatgrandfather Richard (Dick) Brangwin initally purchasing and dairy-farming three parcels of land bordered by Pages Road, Saddington Street, Mamre Road and the M4. Grandfather Walter Brangwin continued to work the land as a Dairy Farm and now Victor is the sole remaining Brangwin living on original family land Born in 1941 in a small cottage on his current land, Victor has now been a resident of St Marys for his entire life of 78 years, also working within the community for the majority of his life. Educated at St Marys Central PS and then Penrith HS, Victor would initially study music under the Carmelite Nuns for 9 years, before transferring to the Conservatorium of Music at 14 years of age. Victor graduated with an Associate in Music (A.Mus.A), qualifying as a Music Teacher but instead beginning a life-long career as a Hair Dresser. Victor initially worked in Rolly Price’s Salon in High Street Penrith, then at a Salon in Parramatta for the next 13 years and eventually taking over Patricia’s Salon in Queen Street, St Marys and working there until his retirement.

Music was however Victor’s passion and when his father Albert (Alby) died in 1966, the Minister at the Presbyterian Church in St Marys asked Victor if he would play the organ at the funeral. It was a tough initiation but Victor said “Despite having never previously played the organ, I was determined, as in all things, this had to be the best I can do.” The Minister subsequently asked Victor after the funeral to be their regular Church organist and he would consequently spend much of his adult life playing the organ in various churches in the St Marys District, including the Anglican Church in St Marys, Our Lady of the Rosary in St Marys and Holy Spirit in St Clair, where he is currently the Music Director. “I know all the liturgies off by heart, I’ve been the organist at weddings, funerals, masses and special masses,” said Victor. “As Music Director, I organise all musicians for 4 masses per week, plus special masses and we even planned our Easter Masses for 2020 prior to Christmas 2019.” “We have 6/7 groups of musicians at the Church and I often stand in when a pianist is not available and I also sing when required.” Divorced in 1990, Victor must have appeared to local MP Anne Cohen at that time to have been at a loose end and she suggested Victor become a Justice of the Peace (JP). Victor took her advice and 29 years later still

Victor Brangwin was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Jackie Greenow OAM. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

works as a JP at three community desks, including St Marys Library, St Clair Library and St Marys Shopping Village. Victor joined the Penrith Symphony Orchestra (PSO) in 1988 and worked in a variety of positions over the years, including Treasurer, Vice President and Board Member - until his retirement in 2018. “I believe you can be in things for too long,” said Victor. “If you linger, you take up opportunities for younger people to come into groups.” “I didn’t want people to look at me and say he’s so bloody old he’s going to fall off the perch.” The PSO nominated Victor for the Penrith Wall of Achievement in 2001, which he was awarded by then Penrith Mayor David Bradbury. Victor was also a supervisor for the Australian Music Examination Board for their Annual Examinations for 15 years and had been, at various stages of his life, a member of the Nepean Choral Society, the St Marys Band Club, the Nepean Lieder

Society (now known as the Nepean Valley Singers) and heavily involved with the Penrith Eisteddfod for 10 years. Victor has also been a life-long member of the Freemasons, following both his father and grandfather into the Lodge. Initially joining in 1963, Victor has served in multiple roles over the ensuing 56 years, including Lodge Treasurer, Lodge Organist, Chapter Recorder / Secretary, Chaplin and from 1976 to 1989, Secretary of the Combined Masonic Ball Committee (Lodges Nepean, Warragamba, The Queen’s and Emu Plains) and Debutante Trainer. In 1995, Victor began working in Pastoral Care at Mt Druitt Hospital and remained in that role until 2004. “I found it to be very difficult visiting people in Palliative Care,” said Victor. “Some people can be very angry about the way their lives are ending and by 2004, I found I couldn’t continue in that role.”

 Victor’s grandfather Walter Brangwin, his father Alby Brangwin and his greatgrandfather Dick Brangwin with two farmhands on the family’s Dairy Farm in 1934. Photo courtesy of St Marys Historical Society.

“I had wonderful parents (Albert & Beryl), who made sure I was well educated.” “Both of them were sports enthusiasts but they never pushed me in that direction – they understood I was more interested in the Arts,” said Victor. As to the future, Victor said “I enjoy playing the organ at Holy Spirit but I will stop when I feel the time is right.”

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

local COLUMNIST

The G Spot

s it me or are we becoming a controlled society? Now when I say controlled, I don’t mean like a robot, no hang on maybe I am saying that, however I mean not having accountability for our actions. Its like we humans take stupid pills when we are released into the wild, like dance festivals, concerts and any other collaborative gathering that has been organised for the purpose of entertaining us for a few hours. I think the technical term is “Cut Loose” and become extremely obnoxious. The word obnoxious almost reminds me of the species terminology of the snake, something like the red belly, Pseudechis porphyriacus and probably on par, once it has consumed copious

amounts of alcohol over a period. But alas, we then become someone else’s problem. So, let me get this right, we drink like there is going to be a national shortage of wine the next day, become obnoxious, anti- social, aggressive and just plain stupid and become security’s, society’s and the State’s problem. Yep got it now. Sigh, we have certainly become the cotton balled generation, haven’t we? So, let me get my head around this for a second (give me some on hold music) so venues, function centres and any other places have to basically employ baby sitters for humans that can’t control themselves, but don’t want to be controlled (God forbid)

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

however need to be… I am confused trust me, it’s like a “which way did they go” moment. We are at the point now where we have security at school fetes, so how advanced are we really? Ask me that 30 years ago; having security at fetes, on school buses, schools, camp trips and I would have said “what planet are you on?” 30 years on and we were running bare foot and eating mud, not a care in the world. Eat mud today, we may be diagnosed with some sort of ailment, I spent the best years eating bugs (maybe that’s my problem). For those believers and nonbelievers – are we really from the chimps? I don’t see security needed for

them whilst gathered, they just kick the crap out of each other, hug and move on, a little like the corner pubs back in the 80’s. Most fights ended in “Mate want a durry”? whilst nursing a few cuts and bruises. Okay, now before some leftie gets upset and sets my letter box on fire and pours roundup on my front lawn, I am NOT saying to kick the sh*t out of each other, I am saying back then we could sort it out, without Police, Ambulance, SWAT, Security and the FBI getting involved. Just Sayn, I guess I should have placed “Rant warning” at the top of this. Until next time, remember, if running around like a crazy person seems okay, security will happily throw you out.

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Toilet troubles in cats

oilet trouble in cats is a reason for real concern. Cats are usually more than happy to use their litter box inside or dig in the dirt after a meal or a drink. However, many cats fall victim to feline urinary health or lower urinary tract diseases (FLUTDs) which sees them finding it very difficult to urinate at all. While this issue may sound merely uncomfortable for your cat, difficulty urinating requires immediate veterinary attention. A blockage in the flow of urine is life threatening and ‘blocked’ cats can experience kidney damage or even die if not treated within 24 to 48 hours. There is no single cause of urinary problems in cats but common

symptoms include straining or vocalising when urinating, signs of blood in the urine or urinating in unusual places like the kitchen or bathroom. Male cats, either entire or desexed, are particularly susceptible to urinary tract disorders as are overweight cats and certain breeds such as Persians. Feeding your cat, a quality food low in magnesium, phosphate and calcium to decrease the chances of crystal and stone formation in their urine

and making sure your cat’s litter box is always kept clean and placed in a quiet, secure environment may help your cat. The actual cause of Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) is often unknown but these cats are characterised as having idiopathic lower urinary tract disease or feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC). Stones or uroliths are the next most common condition, with struvite uroliths increasing in proportion to calcium

oxalate uroliths in recent years. These conditions are the most commonly diagnosed lower urinary tract problems in cats. Your veterinarian will need to identifying and control any underlying medical disorders, including behaviour issues and dietary management. Giving an appropriately formulated food is a key element to the long-term management of the most common conditions of FLUTD in cats. FLUTD can be uncomfortable, and, if a blockage occurs, extremely dangerous. Recognising the typical signs is critical, these include: • Abnormal urination, including blood in the urine, abnormal colour of urine, excessive straining to urinate, or passing urine frequently in small amounts. • Behavioural changes, such as restlessness, vocalising, hiding or refusal to eat. • Changes in the pattern of urination, such as urinating outside the litter pan or in unusual places. If you suspect that your feline friend is having trouble toileting please contact your Greencross Vets Coreen Ave on 0247313055

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

local news

By Noel Rowsell

eorge Asciak and wife Cathy moved to Colyton 33 years ago and would begin a Christmas tradition of celebrating the season with a visit from Santa. George initially began playing Santa for family gatherings at his mother’s Nursing Home in Greenacre, before realising his family celebrations were an opportunity to raise significant funds for charity. Initially beginning with Westmead Hospital and fund-raising on it’s behalf for 3 years, George then moved his fund-raising to Nepean District Hospital, where he also works as a volunteer. Assisted by sons Mark and Luke, George creates one of NSW most popular and most-frequented Christmas displays at his home in

Arcadia Place, Colyton every year, with the trio beginning the set-up in December and turning on the light show extravaganza on the 1st December. Some visitors to the Christmas display have now been attending yearly for the past 11 years, with visitors coming from as far afield as Port Macquarie in NSW and one family travelling down from Queensland every year. Santa makes his first appearance at the display on 18th December and then works every night from 8pm midnight, right up to and including Christmas Eve. Approximately 800 children visit the Christmas lights every year and

each child is given a small toy, a drink and a bag of sweets by Santa, whilst every family gets a huge thank-you for their contributions to the charity box. A number of Clubs also get involved to support the fund-raising, including the EK Racing Fender Benders from Parramatta Raceway and the Unwanted Few Motorcycle Club (a family-friendly motorcycle club). Car and motorbike displays on separate nights attract a huge crowd, with parking often only available quite a few streets away from Arcadia Place. George also works as Santa in a number of other locations during

December, including the Penrith Paceway, Penrith Markets (also at the Paceway), Emu Plains Markets, Colyton Carols by Candlelight, Coyton Shopping Centre and Castle Hill Up-Markets. Fund-raising hit an all-time high of $6,419.00 in 2019, which will allow Nepean Hospital to not only purchase a *Spirometer but also a Breast Pump Machine for the Neonatal Ward. The overall fund-raising tally for Nepean Hospital now stands at over $17,000 from the past 3 years and George, Cathy and the family have no intention of slowing down in the years ahead. Special mention to sponsors include Final Touch Landscaping and Excavation, Australian Scaffolding, Woolies Mt Druitt, Woolies St Mary’s, Orcon Steel, Kennards Hire St Marys, Jay Jay Building Supplies Penrith, Mick Ts St Clair, EK Racing Club, Unwanted Few MSC, Joes Ice Cream, Orion Autos P/L, Gungor Ekinci, Mr Plywood Penrith, Colyton Shopping Centre. *Spirometry is the most common of the pulmonary function tests. It measures lung function, specifically the amount and/or speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. Spirometry is helpful in assessing breathing patterns that identify conditions such as asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and COPD. Wikipedia

Rare birds succesfully breed in Mulgoa

NE of Australia’s rarest birds, the Regent Honeyeater, has successfully bred on a private property in Mulgoa. While the exact number of the total population is unknown, it is estimated less than 1,000 of the species remain in the world. Greater Sydney Local Land Services officer Genevieve Kyi first spotted the pair of adult birds late last year, while carrying out feral animal control on the property. She said the conditions for them to breed were perfect however a successful pair hadn’t been recorded in Western Sydney for years. “Regent Honeyeaters feed on eucalyptus flowers, mistletoe, lerp and small insects and rely on grassy woodland as habitat,” she said. “This particular site was a quiet, undisturbed spot in woodland beside a farm dam which the birds drank and bathed in regularly. “To my delight, it wasn’t long before they started to build a nest.” Fellow officer Peter Ridgeway has worked to preserve the native flora and fauna in Western Sydney for the past decade. He said it was rare for nesting attempts by Regents to be successful. “An estimated 66 percent of

implementing comprehensive and sustainable land management on private and public land. “We’ve worked closely with the land managers on this property to carry out feral animal control for a variety of species, support native vegetation and control weeds and have no doubt this gave the birds a better chance of successfully breeding,” he said. You can help attract native birdlife to your garden or property by leaving out water, keeping logs on the ground and old hollow trees for habitat and planting local native plants.

Regent Honeyeater nests fail. They face drought, wind which can destroy nests, competition for food, aggression from other birds nest as well as predators such as sugar gliders, brush tail possums and lace monitors,” he said. Peter and Gen worked with Australian National University and Birdlife Australia and the Office of Strategic lands department to protect the nest, installing a monitoring camera on the nest, carrying out regular inspections and installing a protective collar on the tree to prevent

ground dwelling predators from reaching the nest. Their efforts paid off, with a chick successfully fledging the nest after weeks of anticipation. “The family have now flown away together to continue their nomadic existence. The juvenile bird will begin to grow coloured feathers characteristic of adult Regents over the next three months, but for now remains a greyish brown bird, with some yellow panelling on its wings. Mr Ridgeway said this success reinforced the importance of actively

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Big hearted Santa helps fund hospital equipment

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

local news

Men’s walk and talk celebrates first birthday By KeRRIE DAVIES

T is birthday time! Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk is turning one and they are having a family walk and talk on Saturday 21st March. There’s also a free BBQ afterwards, and the whole family is welcome to attend. The purpose of the Men’s group is to do exactly what the name suggests - walk and talk. Over the past year, many Penrith men have said the group has helped them in times of need and there are plenty of men in the group who are there simply to help other men in the Nepean area. It is an idea based around keeping active while having a chat and most importantly the

mateship that forms from that. It has grown in leaps and bounds since its inception when just a handful of blokes were the group. “Our weekly attendees is now around the 130 mark, sometimes a little more or a little less, but I can say it is helping a lot of men out there,” said Alan Harding, one of the group’s founders, who unfortunately has felt the heartache of losing someone close to suicide. Alan, who is one of the six organisers, was quick to downplay the role he now personally plays in keeping local men talking rather than bottling things up. “We are just six men trying to do a little to help where we can,” he said. Be part of the celebrations on Saturday March 21 at 10am Remember, in Penrith, no man walks alone.

Speed limit changes along sections of M4 Motorway Motorists are advised original speed limits are being reinstated from next week along the M4 Motorway between Mays Hill and Penrith. A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the speed limits were lowered to allow work to be carried out safely on the NSW Government’s $600 Million M4 Smart Motorway project. “In December 2017, the speed limit along the M4 Motorway was lowered to allow crews to build additional

lanes, upgrade interchanges and install smart technology,” the spokesperson said. “From next week, most sections of the motorway will have returned to their original speed limit. “This includes an 11km stretch westbound between the Cumberland Highway and Wallgrove Road and an 8km stretch eastbound between the Prospect Highway and Church Street. “With work being carried out in

live traffic conditions, it was essential lower speed limits were in place to ensure the safety of all workers and motorists.” The Spokesperson said work on the project is progressing well, with the majority of the work now complete. “The project is reaching the finish line, with crews continuing to install gantries and trial ramp meters along the M4 Motorway,” the spokesperson said.

“Where work continues, small sections of the Motorway will remain at 80 km/h to ensure the safety of workers and road users. “Motorists are reminded to drive to the conditions and follow all signs when travelling through work zones.” For more information about the reinstated speed limits and the project, visit https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/ projects/m4/index.html.

EMMAUS CATHOLIC COLLEGE OPEN NIGHT ON TUESDAY 3RD MARCH, 2020 General Information 5pm-5.30pm (Enrolment Applications for 2021 will be available at that time) Tour OF THE COLLEGE: 5.30pm-8.00pm A co-educational secondary college meeting the learning needs of all students, giving them the best preparation for life in the 21st Century. We are committed to providing the best possible learning and teaching of the whole person as part of a rich tradition of catholic education.

Students and Parents at Emmaus experience:

• a College with strong traditional catholic values and high expectations of all its students • a place where prayer and sacrament life are valued and nurtured • a place where relationships are characterised by dignity, respect and authenticity • a learning environment of challenge, inquiry and innovation, where each student is expected to achieve personal excellence • a Year 7 integration program (HRE) in HSIE, and RE • a broad choice of course offerings across Years 9 - 12 • a BYOLD (bring your own learning device) program enriching the learning environment in a blended way • VET courses and university and TAFE linked courses in Years 11 - 12 • a wide variety of sports played at a representative level and cultural opportunities including Visual Arts, Digital Photography, Mock Trial and Music recitals • a highly qualified and committed teaching staff • a community where personal responsibility and justice are valued and expected • a peaceful and beautiful rural setting

Emmaus Catholic College is a Catholic, dynamic, learning community where parents, staff and families “Walk with Jesus”

87-109 Bakers Lane, Kemps Creek NSW 2178 For further details, application and prospectus, please contact Mrs Biermann or Ms Amalia Chebatte on 9670 8300 or visit www.emmauskempscreek.catholic.edu.au

ENTERTAINMENT By Noel Rowsell

anio & Siobhan Cuttonaro are continuing a family restaurant tradition in Penrith, having opened ‘Tins & Wood’ in November 2019 on the corner of Tindale and Woodriff Street. Fanio is the son of Tony Cuttonaro, who not only established La Notte Restaurant but was one of Penrith’s most prominent restaurant owners for 3 decades. Establishing ‘Tins & Wood’ where ‘La Notte’ ran so successfully is perhaps in some ways risky, as the inevitable comparisons will be made between the past and the present. Fanio & Siobhan however have their own style and vision, linking up with local businesses and suppliers to provide their own unique dining experience. ‘Tins & Wood’ restaurant is a cosy 2-storey building, with an added annex to the side for large groups or special occasions. The south wall of the annex is dominated by a huge map, showing the original land grant awarded to *Captain Daniel Woodriff. Before opening ‘Tins & Wood’, Fanio had been the Head Chef and Venue Manager at the Nepean Rowing Club. He and Siobhan have established a solid core of experienced staff at Tins & Wood, keen to evoke a memorable dining experience in the heart of Penrith.

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Tins & Wood Continues Cuttonaro Legacy in Penrith

Local craft beers and a variety of mouth-watering pastas and pizzas are among the many winners on the wining and dining menu. Reservations for dining in the restaurant or ordering takeaway dinners can be made on-line (www.tinsandwood.com.au) or by phone 0247 311 982. Lunch is served Tuesday - Friday, Dinner from Tuesday - Sunday and pizzas are available Wednesday - Sunday. *1,000 acres was granted to Captain Daniel Woodriff in February, 1804 and was called Rodley Farm. Captain Woodriff received this grant for his role in putting down the Castle Hill Rebellion and a month later he returned to England.

Open for Dinner Tues - Sun 5.30pm - 9pm Lunch Tues - Fri 11.30am - 2.30pm

2 Function rooms available 35 pax & 50pax

3/12 Tindale Street, Penrith 4731 1982

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

St Patrick’s Day

Annual Charity

$6,000

FRIDAY 13TH MARCH

Sunday 17th March. Open 8am to 10pm.

CASH TO BE WON!

$6000 cash to be won in our St Patrick’s Day raffle! Tickets $10 each, drawn at 8.30pm. First prize $5,000, second prize $1,000 Winners will be notified, you do not have to be present to claim the prize.

All day Irish breakfast available. Performances of Irish Dancing throughout the day. Entertainment 9am to 1pm - Soul Jamz 1.30pm to 5pm - Lenny Duff | 5.30pm to 9.30pm - Blackwater

Irish Family Fun Day sunday 8 MARCH

Golf Day

Dunheved Golf Course 2 Man Ambrose Event “Mystery Handicap” Tee Off at 7am (shotgun start) $85/player, includes green fees, breakfast roll, lunch and 2 beers at the Gaels Club. Prizes galore, raffles and other activities on the day. Registration forms available now at reception.

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS

LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS from $10 MONDAY Barramundi Night $15 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Bangers & Mash Night $15 THURSDAY Parmy Night $15

Including the

ALL AUSTRALIAN 9-A-SIDE GAELIC FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT and HURLING from 9am at Parker Street Reserve, Kingswood

FREE ENTRY - ALL WELCOME FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT & RIDES

For all the famliy. All day ride pass only $5 per person. Followed by a great night of entertainment at the Penrith Gaels Club.

Between 5 & 8pm (Conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 21 FEB - 8PM 22 FEB - 8PM 23 FEB - 5PM Backlash Sideshow Blackwater Annie

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 28 FEB - 8PM 29 FEB - 8PM 1 MAR - 2.30PM Eye Of Lenny Banter & The Tiger Duff Soul Jamz

ENTERTAINMENT

enrith Reptile Expo is at a new location - Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, 30 Herbert St, Cambridge Park. Check out the our ad below for everything you need to know about the Penrith Reptile Expo and what you will see there! We have Reptiles and Reptile supplies including food, heating, lighting and caging from our Amazing Sponsors, Extreme Pets, Absolute, Platinum Reptile Supplies and Kellyville Pets! Loads of Breeders with awesome reptiles ready to go home with you. Our wonderful reptile keepers who bring in their best animals to enter our Best In Show competition. See snakes, lizards, geckos and more. This year we are so excited to have Rex Neindorf from The Alice Springs Reptile Centre and Anthony Stimson from Australian Wildlife Displays bring Thorny Devils to NSW so you can see Australia’s most incredible reptile up close and learn about what makes them so different to all our other reptiles. We will have Andrew Melrose from Live Reptile Displays with his venomous reptile show and Stephen Boys from Walkabout Reptiles with the best kids reptile show you will ever see! It has them singing in the aisles! We have Kenan Harkin, Dav Kaufman and Brian Kusko from Youtube fame who will be available to meet and will be doing a Q&A on the day. Let us know if you have a question you want answered and we will put it to them. Have your photo taken with Shoalhaven Zoo’s Exotic reptiles or Dragon Training’s Monitors. Or if

birds are more your style get over and see Feathered Friends for a photo with an owl or a bird of prey. Love reptile books? Meet Authors John Cann or Scott and Tyese Eipper and buy a book and have it signed. Or see Jonathon at Herp books for something special. Tom Covell from Hooked on Nature will be around doing some short excursions to show you nature on our doorstep. We will also have representatives from Macarthur and Illawarra Herpetological Societies and a

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Who loves dinosaurs and reptiles?

fabulous Frog Display from FATS. If all else fails then check out the dinosaur Blue who will be walking around saying hello, or see some of the amazing dinosaur displays and ride on dinos for the kids. There really is something for everyone! Put it in your calendar and get your tickets at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/penrith-reptile-expo-familyfu… or entry at the door. Or check out our expo page for more info. https://www.facebook.com/ PenrithReptileExpo/

Hawkesbury Herpetological Society’s 11th Annual

PENRITH REPTILE EXPO & Family Fun Day Entertainment and Animal Displays by:

International Guests:

Huge Dinosaurs!

Sunday 8th March 2020 - 9am-4pm Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre, 30 Herbert St, Cambridge Park www.facebook.com/PenrithReptileExpo/

Email: hhs.expo@gmail.com

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.

ENTERTAINMENT

r i t t e n by Mary J O’Malley in 1979, set in 1957, Once A Catholic is an uproarious comedy. The nuns in its schools who cowed and confused successive generations of girls with the combined threat of everlasting hellfire and a secretarial career. The girls get into all sorts of trouble throughout the play, including being led astray by their boyfriends Cuthbert and Derek. Luckily, they have spiritual guidance in the form of the incompetent Father Mullarkey and the brutish nuns, Mother Basil and Mother Peter. “If anyone has had any experience growing up in the 1950’s being taught by nuns, they will no doubt relate to this show with much humor, even if you are not from the 50’s; the characters are so much fun that everyone will get a good laugh,” Director Anthony Brown said. The interesting thing about this show is, Mary J O’Malley based the play on her personal experience

Italian tenors in Penrith

when she was a young girl. The actors of the production have all taken on every role seriously in knowing this is what happened back in time. Performance dates: 7th, 14th and 21st March at 7pm plus 21st March at 2pm. Ticket price is $25 for adults and $20 concession, $35 at the door. To book tickets go to www. trybooking.com/538836 To reserve show only phone (02) 47355422. “ONCE A CATHOLIC” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au

oin Nepean News on facebook and keep a watch on our page as we will be giving away five double passes to this tremendous show at Panthers! Direct from Italy and returning in 2020 for their third Australian tour, the Italian Tenors are three of Europe’s most successful operatic tenors who have become a worldwide pop-opera phenomenon. Evans Tonon, Sabino Gaita and Luca Sala toured Australia in 2016 on their inaugural tour which saw the group play to sell out performances Australia wide. Audiences will see them once again combine their classical roots with Neopolitan songs and their own blend of Italian pop classics. This

is a show that has become a must see event for all who love the great arias of Puccini and Verdi, the Neopolitan standards of Caruso and Mario Merola and the melodious hits of San Remo. Their 2020 Australian tour promises all the Italian charm and vocal power of their sold out European tour. Together with their live band, the evening promises to be an incredible musical montage of vocal passion and entertainment excellence. See this fabulous show at Panthers Penrith on March 13, to book call 4720 5555 and don’t forget, you’ll have the chance to be one of five lucky winners keep an eye on Nepean News facebook page next week!

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Deal (7) 5 Rod-shaped bacteria (7) 9 Reproduced (9) 10 The sharp edge at the junction of 2 surfaces (5) 11 Voter (7) 12 Ceded (7) 13 Lead (9) 15 Show someone to their seats (5) 17 Mongrels (5) 19 Child (9) 22 Biting (7) 25 In an unspecified manner (7) 26 Father of Methuselah (5) 27 Disturbance (9)

28 Smiled contemptuously (7) 29 Baby cats (7) DOWN 1 Boundaries (7) 2 Be a delegate for (9) 3 Flyer (7) 4 Infamy (9) 5 In a poor fashion (5) 6 French country house (7) 7 Horrible in savagery (5) 8 A personal with confidential information (7) 14 The lower joint of the leg of a fowl (9) 16 Bum rides (9) 17 Social deportment (7) 18 How a snake moves (7) 20 Acrobat or tumbler (7) 21 Reverses the tape to the beginning (7) 23 Writing style (5) 24 Secretes a hormone (5)

solution 6/2/20

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Once a catholic WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Thriver Or Nine To Fiver?

Are you a thriver, with the thrills of life within you ..Or Just a nine to fiver, with a self-imposed limited life that just somehow happens around you? It’s your life and it provides you with the opportunity to work 24 hours on the trot, if you so desire. Who has control, you or the influences that surround you? You may find your personal best time is after 5pm. Work is a 4 letter word, filled with opportunity and hope. So please take the tip! Don’t be conned and don’t let the attitude develop of being just a nine to fiver. Cheers Dear Mates And Thank You, Rossco

The HAVE and the HAVE NOTS. Which side do you want to be on? With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

e c e n t ly I saw some information that was quite scary. The article was about the average net assets of Australian couples at retirement. Couples with a property with no mortgage at retirement had net assets of just under $1,000,000. Couples who still had a mortgage over their home had net assets of $960,000. So only slightly less than those without a mortgage. The scary part was couples who had no property at retirement. These couples only had net assets of around $40,000. This low figure is because most of their income has had to be spent on continual rental payments. Rents in the major cities always rise over time and these payments take away people’s ability to invest in growth assets or property. Around 37 percent of households in Australia own a home with a mortgage and 30 percent own their home with no mortgage. At age 65 this increases to 83 percent of households own their home outright. Contrary to popular belief, the

total costs to own your home with a mortgage as a percentage of average household incomes has been declining since 2009/10 due to declining interest rates. These households only pay 16 percent of their average incomes to cover all their property costs (including the mortgage, council rates, strata fees, insurances etc). However, those who rent are having their housing costs increasing almost every year since 2007/08. Public

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

25 Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Gateway

ENTERTAINMENT

housing tenants pay the highest percentage of 22.5 percent of their household incomes. Private tenants pay 20 percent and households who own a house with no mortgage only pay 3 percent of their incomes. So the aim and great Aussie dream is to buy a home, pay off the mortgage and only have to pay 3 percent of your income to pay the other costs of home ownership. Now these are average figures for the

Australian Housing Affordability

Source: ABS

whole country of course and Sydney people pay a lot higher percentages than the average. But the message is still the same. As I always say, to buy a home in our local area, there is always some short and medium term pain for the long term gain. Retiring and still having a mortgage is very tough. Most people who do this then have to use some or all of their superannuation to reduce or repay their mortgage. This is far from ideal but a lot better than retiring with no home and having to pay rent until you die or are forced to live with family or go into a nursing home, especially if you want to live around the greater Sydney area. If you think you will never be able to afford to buy a home to live in, you can also be a “rentvestor”. This is more common in recent years and is where people rent where they want to live but buy an investment property or properties where they can afford and that will give them good capital growth in the long term. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

Phone: 4739 4500 Mobile: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au Award winning mortgage broker

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

NEPEAN HISTORY

A Scotsman wrote our National Anthem By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

eter Dodds McCormick was born in Scotland at Port Glasgow in 1833, the son of Peter McCormick (Snr) and Janet (née Dodds). After completing his apprenticeship to a joiner in Scotland, the family migrated to Australia in 1855. Carrying on with his trade he was employed by the NSW Education Department. He began his involvement with Sydney’s St Stephen’s Church as a stonemason, working on the now demolished Phillip Street Church. Rev Hugh Darling was so impressed with his singing on the job he asked him to join the choir. Peter’s musical ability later allowed him to become the Precentor of the Presbyterian Church of NSW (a person whose duty it is to lead the congregation in the singing of psalms) which gave him the opportunity to conduct very large massed choirs. In March 1858 in a letter to the Editor of the SMH it was reported that Rev. James Cameron of the Free Presbyterian Kirk at Penrith was taking steps towards building a Presbyterian schoolhouse and place of worship at South Creek (St Marys). George Hope offered them a portion of his property. There was already a private school that had previously been in a temporary building that was on George Hope’s land, and two schools at South Creek in connection with the Church of England and the Catholic faith. In 1861, the residents of St Marys wanted education for their children and a formal application for the establishment of a “NonVested” National School at St Marys was sent to the National Board of Education. At that time the Board provided up to two-thirds of the cost of erecting and fitting out a school if an attendance of 30 pupils could be guaranteed and local patrons could be found to undertake the responsibility of raising the balance of the money and superintending the building of the school and taking a share in school conduct. The Presbyterian school once established was to be conducted as close as possible to the National system. A slab building with a good floor and shingled roof was provided by the National Board that measured 30x18 feet. The first teacher was Thomas Shore, a Londoner 47 years old but didn’t teach long and resigned at the end of 1861 due to the small income from the school fees and the difficulties due to lack of equipment. Next teacher was James Wainwright who complained of the inadequate supply of forms and he resigned in June 1863 declaring that “the schoolroom was unfit for a National School” due to wet weather that made it very unpleasant and caused a low attendance of only 14 pupils a week. In March 1863, Peter applied for a Teacher in a National School, and he was prepared to undergo the necessary exams and to attend the Fort Street Model School in Sydney where he will be paid £7 a month while training. On 4th June 1863, James Young from South Creek wrote a letter to the Secretary of the National Schools about a letter Peter had sent to him that he would make an application for appointment of Schoolmaster at St Marys after he attended the Model Training School. It seems that James was surprised because James Wainwright had told him that he had to hand over all the school books to him under the Secretary’s authority, but James had thought it wouldn’t be long before there was a National School established at St Marys and they would require the books and that the Secretary was aware of this because he was using them and he had promised Peter to teach the children who lived in the neighbourhood and Peter had said

that the Secretary would allow them to remain in the custody of the Local Patrons of the School at South Creek. James said that after consulting with the Local Patrons on this subject, he would of course, give them to James Wainwright as the Secretary requested the Local Patrons to do. Another letter written by James Young to the Secretary of the newly named Board of National Education dated 17th June 1863 was letting them know about a meeting that was held by the local Patrons of the National School at South Creek for the purpose of considering the application for the appointment of Teacher-in-Charge from Peter Dodds McCormick who was studying at the Model Training school and the school had been closed for some time due to the difficulty of finding a suitable teacher. With very high testimonials submitted in his favour, the meeting unanimously nominated Peter being the most eligible person, and they were satisfied by the zeal and energy exhibited by Peter in the course of education that their expectations are “he will be the means of taking the school to a far higher standard it has yet attained.” Peter started teaching there in 1863 and that year he married Emily Boucher who became a sewing teacher at the school, but she died in March 1866, Peter was only at the school for a year and his brother Robert took over for a year boarding with my GGG Grandparents James & Mary Ann Hackett. In December 1867 Peter married Emma Elizabeth Dening who died in 1921 aged 84 years. Leaving South Creek In 1867, Peter went on to teach at the Presbyterian denominational school in Woolloomooloo and he later moved to Dowling Plunkett Street Public School in 1878 where he remained until 1885. In a letter to Mr R B Fuller dated 1 August 1913, Peter described the circumstances that inspired him to pen the lyrics of his famous song. “One night I attended a great concert in the Exhibition Building (opened in 1879) when all the National Anthems of the world were to be sung by a large choir with band accompaniment. This was very nicely done, but I felt very aggravated that there was not one note for Australia. On the way home in a bus I concocted the first verse of my song and when I got home, I set it to music. I first wrote it in the Tonic Sol-fa (a system of naming the notes of the scale, usually doh, ray, me, fah, soh, lah, ti used especially to teach the singing of all minor keys) then transcribed it into the Old Notation (Composers from the Classical, Romantic and later eras often used what is known as old notation) and I tried it on an instrument next morning and found it correct. Strange to say there has not been a note of it altered since. Some alteration has been made in the wording, but the sense is the same. It seemed to me to be like an inspiration and I wrote the words and music with the greatest ease”. Peter wrote “Advance Australia Fair” under the non de plume of “Amicus”. In 1907 the Premier of NSW Sir Joseph Carruthers declared “Advance Australia Fair” was now our National Anthem. On 3 September 1915 Peter formally registered his copyright. Survived by his second wife, Peter died childless at his home “Clydebank” at Waverley in October 1916 aged 83 years and was buried in Rookwood cemetery with his second wife Emma. His estate was valued for probate at £52. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia. Sources: Sydney Morning Herald, Sun Sydney, Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser, Daily Telegraph, Macleay Chronicle, Trove online.

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Danielle Fleming from Rouse Hill the Junior Sport Star Award for her amazing skills and development in BMX riding. Danielle is a Junior Rider at the Penrith BMX Club and has been competing since 2015. In 2019 Danielle was named the National Serie Champion for her age, was a member of the 2019 BMX Merit Team, was a semi-finalist in the National BMX Championships, took out second place in the NSW State Titles and first place in the ACT State Titles. Danielle spoke of her gratitude to be recognised by Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and how she became involved with the sport of BMX riding. “I feel very happy because I’m one out of many so I feel very honoured,” she said. “My dad raced BMX when he was a teenager so he took me and my sister to the closest track to see if we liked it and we had a ride and I loved it! “Then a few months later my sister started and I then wanted to start racing and ever since I got my first race bike I have loved it.” In 2018 Danielle placed second in the NSW BMX State Trials, third overall in the BMX National Series, fourth in the U12 Oceania Championships

and was ranked 5th in Australia. In the same year she was awarded PVSF Junior Athlete of the Month of April and the most outstanding Junior Rider at Penrith BMX Club. Danielle also spoke about her greatest achievements so far throughout her BMX events and her goals for her future in the sport.

“My best achievements are 5th in Australia in 2018, making the test team for Australia in 2018, second in NSW State Titles three years in a row, 2019 National Series winner, 2020 NSW State Team, junior sport star of the month April 2018, making the Western Sydney Academy of Sport Heartland Motors Lone Star Program for 2020 and first in ACT State Titles,” Danielle said. “My future plans are to get first in Australia, go to world titles and get into the final, compete in World Cups.” We would like to congratulate Danielle on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in BMX riding for the future.

Calling all Penrith Panthers fans! Say hello to the Penrith Panthers tonight, (Thursday 20 February) from 6pm at Westfield Penrith. Enjoy a Q&A session, get your team poster autographed and snap a selfie.

Major Pennant competition under way By Noel Rowsell

he rain held off for round Two of the 2020 Golf NSW Major Pennant competition, allowing all local clubs to finally start the representative golf season. There were some strong wins for clubs from the Western Sydney Region, with Penrith GC rolling Castle Hill CC 6-1; Springwood CC with a strong 5.5-1.5 win over Antill Park GC, Leonay GC edging past Windsor CC 4-3, Richmond GC 5-2 over Royal Sydney GC, Twin Creeks CC 4-3 over Manly GC and Stonecutters Ridge GC 4-3 over The Lakes GC, whilst Glenmore Heritage Valley GC drew 3.5-3.5 with Lynwood CC (this match played at Oatlands due to extreme weather damage at Lynwood). Losses on the day included Wallacia CC falling 6-1 to Strathfield GC, Dunheved GC falling 3-0 to Carnarvon GC and Fox Hills down 6.5-0.5 to North Ryde. Round 3 on Feb 23 features Penrith hosting Camden Lakeside, Stonecutters Ridge hosting Fox Hills, Dunheved host Antill Park, Wallacia host Bexley and Leonay host Warringah, whilst Twin Creeks are away to Ryde-Parramatta, Glenmore Heritage Valley away to Massey Park, Richmond away to Kogarah, Springwood away to Carnarvon and Windsor away to Randwick.

Leonay GC players Ben McArdle & Adam Brennen in action from the Leonay vs Windsor match. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

PVSF Junior Sport Star Award

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

SPORT

Tex’s tales with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker

Kikau to Talk

Photo: Penrith Panthers

Panthers Coach Ivan Cleary has reached out to Viliame Kikau to lead in the on-field communication stakes this season. And rightly so with havachat, James Maloney, leaving a massive void since leaving for overseas. But it could be a big ask for someone to come out of their normally peaceful personality and instil some fire into fellow players in a time of need. Kikau usually leads by example through his actions, so it’ll be interesting to see if the Fijian international can inspire vocally. Expect Nathan Cleary to step up and mostly take centre stage. The Panthers attack lacked flair and creativity last season, and the addition of Trent Barrett as Assistant Coach cannot be denied. Barrett had a tumultuous time at The Sea Eagles and returning to a less pressure role should just be the breath of fresh air required for 2020. “Trent obviously will spend a lot of time with the backs and it’s been fantastic having him on board,” said Coach Ivan Cleary. “Jerome (Luai) has some impressive games in the NRL and at international level and Trent will be working hard with him to improve his game. I think he will really come of age. He’s a marvellous player and will get his deserved crack at the number 6 spot this season. “We are lucky to have some talented depth in the halves with Matt Burton and Daine Laurie improving all the time.” Panthers members and fans can meet their favourite players at Westfield Penrith tonight. The Panthers will be signing autographs and posing for selfies from 6pm in Centre Court, located near the fountain on the ground floor. Head down early to get your hands on the brand new 2020 Panthers team poster, say hello to the Pantherettes and enjoy a free OAK Plus.

PANTHERS ROB

Dean Whare was as surprised as anyone when told of his captaincy for the Perth Nines last weekend. “It was a big shock, I’ve never been the captain of anything in life,” said Whare. “Ivan pulled me aside after training and asked if I was okay to lead, it certainly is an honour.” A few of the lads were quick to celebrate the Panthers first win over the Roosters in the Nines last Friday. Billy Burns, Brent Naden, Josh Mansour and crew added their dance rendition of Glitter on the new social media craze - Tik Tok. Burns account (@billyburns40) is in its infancy and has started to get a strong following. Keep an eye out for plenty of post match Tik Toks, which would equate to multiple Panther victories this year.

Some good signs early in the eight round competition for the GWS women. After securing a narrow win in horrid conditions over Gold Coast in Round 1, the ladies were off the boil with accuracy going down to North Melbourne last weekend. GWS had nine scoring shots to seven in the 18 point defeat. This week they play at home (Blacktown) on Sunday against the winless West Coast Eagles who suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of Fremantle last week. GWS should go in as favourites for this one and are expected to win - Centre Bounce 1:30PM.

he Penrith Panthers started off their Nine’s campaign impressively against an understrength Roosters outfit last Friday night. In scoring a 35-0 victory it was certainly a case of men against boys with Vilame Kikau having a field day against an inexperienced defense on the left edge. It took less than a minute for ‘Bill’ to make his presence felt when he charged 70 metres to the try line beating off defenders like he was swatting flies. It was purely a procession from there on in with Naden, Mansour, and Koroisau crossing the chalk. But the talk of the competition was the final play of the quarter final against the Dragons. The Dragons were trailing 14-13 to the Panthers in the last second of the game when Ben Hunt hoisted the ball up into the air. Dragons rookie winger Cody Ramsey caught the ball and the Penrith defence were closing in cover at the same time, forcing Ramsey’s momentum toward the sideline. Ramsey placed the ball and following discussion between

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with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker

OBBED IN PERTH

Photo: Getty Images

three officials, including an in goal judge, referee Ben Cummins awarded the try. History shows it to be one of the biggest officiating clangers of all time, the ball was clearly over the touch line. “It’s disappointing, there were enough officials to try and get it right, but it wasn’t meant to be I suppose, said Cleary. “ I was really happy with the way we played, we have come out of the tournament injury free and that’s highly important.” Referee boss Graham Annesley didn’t shy away from the blunder. “”You can only look at the replay and and realise it wasn’t a try, Annesley told Fox Sports. “The officials got it wrong and it’s disappointing.” Api Korisau was a highlight with his return in Panther colours and looks set for a big season. The Panthers take on West’s Tigers in a trial at home this Saturday night with many of the youngsters in the system to be given an opportunity.

SPOTTED: Jockey Shaun Guymer being put through his paces by Mark Geyer at MG Activ Gym on York Rd Penrith this week. “MG Activ is a fabulous place, I reckon I’ve found my second home,” said Guymer. “Mark and his son Logan have made it easy for me to fit in and be a part of the family, there’s a special feeling at MG Activ. “It’s a place for absolutely everyone, no mirrors, no prejudice, I’m so glad to have found it. “The training has not only put me in good physical shape, but mentally I’m in a really good space as well.” Last season Guymer rode 71 winners and so far this season has ridden the winners of 34 races with six months remaining. Guymer has had over 4,500 race rides and is closing in on 400 winners. How woeful are the NSW Waratahs? Currently winless in three attempts this season, it will be a miracle if they can somehow turn it all around. Junior Wallaby fly half and rookie Will Harrison has started all three games and will need to adjust his game at the top level. Expect coach Rob Penney to give him one more chance before moving the experienced Kurtley Beale in the front line. The Tahs have the bye this weekend and then return to Bankwest stadium on Friday Feb 28 vs The Lions, who are one and three. Nothing else but a win is anticipated and if not, expect heads to roll. When I think of Penrith obviously I think of the mighty Panthers along with the plethora of junior talent the district produces across many sports. But one place, just like Berger Paints that keeps on keeping on is the Penrith Trots, today known as Club Paceway. Thursday night harness racing has been instilled into Penrith for more than 55 years and I want to give a shout out to Head Groundsman Rob McDougall who is now in his 35th year of service for the club. Kudos to you Rob, congratulations. In each column of Tex’s Tales we will provide a couple of tips for the Thursday night race meeting - all care taken, no responsibility of course!! Race 2 No 1 Crystal Stride Race 4 No 10 Sapphire Swayze

TEX’S toP 3

(discussion points of recent times) 1. Despite the refereeing debacle in the Panthers and Dragons Nines quarter final clash, there is no need for a Bunker at a Pre Season trial like competition. 1. It’s too expensive and 2. Nines are a quick, fast paced game and the bunker will ruin the spectacle. But……....when something so blatant is there for all to see, common sense must prevail, the decision should have been overturned straight away and I’m positive there wouldn’t have been too many complaints. We can say it’s only a pre season competition but the concern is the same referee, Ben Cummins, was in charge of the infamous ‘six again’ call in last year’s grand final. My question to the powers that be, does Cummins have some issues given the clangers at his past two performances? 2. Dave Warner’s Allan Border medal win certainly created divide. After playing poorly, and on the verge of being dropped in England, he fought back in the Australian Summer. For mine Pat Cummins should have been awarded the prize as he was consistent for both campaigns. 3. Where to now for the game of Rugby in Australia? The code has been on the decline for the past decade, many would argue more. I love all sports and yes Rugby is one of them. Over the last five or so years I find my viewing time dwindling. I’m certainly not alone here, the stats don’t lie! I have never seen the code have so little interest. Yes, will always watch The Bledisloe and British Lions tours but that aside it’s actually become quite mundane. The woeful Michael Chiejka experiment as coach, the Israel Folau fall out and now the TV Rights shemozzle has CEO Raelane Castle trying to save her job. She needs to pull a rabbit out of her hat to fix things very quickly, and that, I’m not so sure she is capable of.

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

Tex’s tales

Have you spotted a celeb in the local area or wish to submit a comment or have a tale to tell? Send an email to infotexfit@gmail.com or follow twitter @texy71.

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Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

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Coach’s Corner W

How Can Culture Overcome A Thirst For Credit?

e are three weeks away from the commencement of the 2020 NRL season. With the Sydney Roosters reigning over the competition with their back to back premierships in 2018 and 2019. Can they make it a three-peat in 2020? They have endured an interesting offseason with their star centre Latrell Mitchell moving to cross town rivals the South Sydney Rabbitohs and losing star halfback Cooper Cronk to retirement. But much like the Melbourne Storm, the codes other consistent dynasty and force within the competition, the Roosters manage to overcome what winning brings and breeds within players and staff alike. Winning brings praise, credit and individual accolades, representative jerseys, contract extensions and pay increases. And this can breed resentment and a hunger for credit. Individuals start to look around the room and compare themselves and their value to their team mates. This can puncture a culture and

distract the focus of winning teams and organisations. The best franchises like the Roosters and Storm always have a long term strategy and plan. They are assembling a roster not just for the present moment but for years in advance through scouting, recruitment and retention directions and strategies put together by high performance coaches and club executives. Winning in 2020 is not as simple as arriving at preseason training in November and getting to work. It begins and is majorly completed well before the players hit the ground for their first training session of that particular season. In comparison the Gold Coast Titans are an organisation anchored to the bottom of the ladder, who consistently churn through coaches, lose their best junior talent to rivals and have a club culture at least externally that is one of under achievement and a lack of overall excitement and engagement within their community. Bryce Cartwright unwanted and underachieving

Brock Shepperd Wests Tigers SG Ball Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

at the Panthers, Shannon Boyd wanted more money because he was an International standard player, Ash Taylor lands a million dollar deal and is in reserve grade within 12 months. Tyrone Peachey, Kevin Proctor and Nathan Peats are all representative players with their previous clubs but lose those jerseys once with the Titans. A lot of these players left for reasons of wanting more credit, responsibility or money. But the majority of these players have been absolved and forgotten at their previous club because the team culture always over rides the individual wants and needs. Effective recruitment and retention along with player development off the field has seen other players step into the fold and take their place. This stems from having a selfless culture and organisational excellence in the long term planning and execution of roster decisions which places the best clubs in a position to consistently achieve on the field.

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Anguish as Dramatic Tie Denies Black Cats One Day Final Spot By STEWART MOSES

@TheRiffMarn

Having qualified for the Limited Overs One Day Competition semi-finals courtesy of a washed-out home quarterfinal against Eastern Suburbs the previous Sunday, the Black Cats have had a place in this Sunday’s final against Randwick-Petersham, snatched away by a 46-run tenth wicket partnership from their opponents, Sydney University. Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Penrith who were at one point 6/180 and in reasonable shape to set a more than competitive total in the vicinity of 220-240 from their 50 overs, were instead bundled out for just 199, with Jordan Browne (47), Tyran Liddiard (41) the main contributors with the bat. Chasing a modest total, Josh Lalor tore through the top order taking two early wickets before the Students steadied to reach 2/90 and on track to in part avenge for their one wicket loss to Penrith in last season’s Belvidere Cup final. But Lalor, who finished with 4/33, had other ideas, initiating a batting collapse to have the home side all but done at 9/153. However, the Black Cats weren’t able to finish the job and despite the match finishing in a tie, Penrith were eliminated by virtue of Sydney University’s higher placing on the one-day competition ladder. Penrith captain Ryan Smith told Nepean News said it was a strange feeling to miss out on a final spot in such a manner, adding that it was lack of runs that ultimately cost the team. “Obviously disappointed to be knocked out of the one-day competition but we put up a good fight,” Smith replied. “The wicket looked pretty good to bat on early on and it did look like it would play a little bit lower and slower as the day went on, but maybe we were a little bit behind par with the runs we set them. “We were well set up to achieve that but lost a few wickets at the end and we noticed that it was really hard to score runs on when you first arrived at the crease on that wicket. “That caught up with us a bit and while it was a reasonable total, a few more runs might have been nicer. “Both teams bowled well overall, however for majority of the game, Sydney Uni played the better cricket. “But it is still strange to be knocked out on a tie but

Penrith’s Jordan Browne in action against his former club last Saturday. Credit: Barry Clarence.

that is the way it is when they finish on the ladder higher than you.” Smith admits he thought the Black Cats had one foot in the door when the ninth fell with 46 runs still required by the home side. “When we took the ninth wicket, they still needed forty odd runs and we fairly confident that we would be able to get the last wicket,” Smith declared. “We were unlucky with a few chances going wide of the fielders as well as a few missed run out opportunities especially with the number 11 trying to get off strike. “It seems that this has been a season where we haven’t had much luck go our way during games but that’s cricket, sometimes you create your own luck and Sydney Uni earned their luck.” The washed-out draw against Bankstown in the previous round, left Penrith still ten points outside the top six with just two and a half rounds remaining, in tenth position. The Black Cats returned home to Howell Oval last Saturday for the first day of a two-day match against Campbelltown-Camden, with the loser set to have their finals hopes all but dashed. Penrith won the toss and elected to bowl first but were unable to dismiss the visitors, with the Ghosts finishing the day on 9/293, with Smith being the pick of the bowlers, taking 3/37, supported by Collins (2/56) and Railz (2/65). The Penrith skipper admits he thought an underprepared Howell Oval may have been more

bowler friendly than it actually was, especially given the team is under no illusion that they need to win this game to realistically keep their faltering finals hopes alive. “As we are tenth on the ladder, we need to win every game and hence we thought we would send them in and try to utilise what we thought may have been a good bowling wicket,” Smith said. “The wicket hasn’t been used for a while, being under covers and being prepared in limited circumstances for the past five-six weeks now, having had no actual cricket on that wicket. “It looked like it would be hard to bat on and do a little bit, but it didn’t do as much as I thought it would. “The wicket was actually pretty dead and slow. A few popped here and there but they came with the mindset to bat the day out knowing any score they get is obviously going to be hard to chase down on that wicket. “If we don’t get the runs it will all but curtains for our season barring a miracle.” The following Saturday, Penrith will travel down the M4 to take on Western Sydney rivals, Parramatta at Old Kings Oval in a two-day game. In lower grades news, Penrith remain in the mix for finals position despite the washed-out draws incurred against Bankstown the weekend before last but still have it all to do this Saturday, following Day One action (or lack of in some cases) against Campbelltown-Camden. 2s: Penrith 4/37 v Campbelltown-Camden 201 (T Weir 5/67, L Doddrell 3/34) 3s / 4s / 5s: Penrith v Campbelltown-Camden – day one washed out. Current ladder positions are as follows: 2s: 12th (7 points outside the top six); 3s: 8th (3 points outside the top six); 4s: 4th (5 points inside the top six); 5s: 2nd (10 points inside the top six) Meanwhile in Women’s Premier Cricket, Penrith have fallen back to fourth position after their match was washed out against Gordon before losing last Sunday to Universities (minus Naomi Stalenberg, Lisa Griffin and Phoebe Litchfield) by six wickets. The Lady Cats will be looking to consolidate their place in the top four when they host St GeorgeSutherland (9th) before travelling the following Sunday to take on Campbelltown-Camden.

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Nines should be one in, all in

 This is a worrying image. The Cody Ramsey no try awarded one with the ball not even near the in goal.

he NRL 9’s took place in Perth last Friday and Saturday and as per usual it showcased the game’s best (well some of them, lots chose to keep their stars and coaches away from the event) in the shortened version of the game providing stunning individual and team efforts as a somewhat unofficial kickoff to season 2020. If the 9’s are to remain a part of the NRL season warm up there has to be a clear mandate set. Either you’re all in or you’re all out! The majority of teams fielded reserve grade or u/20’s players, hence looking like they weren’t taking the 9’s that seriously, understandable. But for those teams that DID take most of their stars over to the great West they indeed showed that the 9’s was in fact a true blue hit out. The Perth people were robbed, with the call for the Western Reds to enter the NRL being labelled as rubbish considering the crowds were down on forecasted expectations. I wonder why? Why would you pay to watch a competition in which you don’t know or recognise 70 per cent of its participants? On the flip side the tournament produced some outstanding performances from ‘kids’ who would not have been given the opportunity otherwise. Luke

 Maybe this is how the officials saw it

Metcalf, Cody Ramsey, Tex Hoy, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, and Matt Timoko were just a few of the kids who starred. Bottom line though, if the first grade coach can’t be bothered making the trip then it’s hard to take games they play in seriously. Speaking of SERIOUSLY, what about the decision to award Cody Ramsey a try in the dying stages of their game against Penrith knocking the Panthers out of the competition? Oh my God!! Now if anyone reading this still thinks we don’t need the bunker in our competition then you’re kidding. A blatant no try was awarded a try and there was a ref, a linesman, and an in goal touch judge right there adjudicating! That’s 6 eyes who all said Try! Cmon man! And another thing... I’d like to welcome the new league sports editor to the Nepean News: Dale ‘Texas’ Walker. Tex and I go way back to my days on Talkin Sport at 2sm. He loves his footy and is an excellent MC if anyone needs a host for an up-coming function. All the best, Texas! See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Nepean News 20 February 2020 Issue 271

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