Nepean News 20 June 2019 by Nepean News

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local news By KeRRIE DAVIES

rant applications for Magnetic Places have been extended until Monday 22 July 2019! Do you have a great idea to transform a public place in your neighbourhood? Get your application in now and take it from idea to reality. Magnetic Places is a community placemaking grants program which aims to activate public spaces with and for the local community. Are you a professional artist or organisation keen to work with a community to create visual impact? Apply now for a Magnetic Places grant and make your idea a reality. Magnetic Places is a creative placemaking grants program which aims to activate public spaces with and for the local community. Placemaking is a creative and inclusive process where many different people can collaborate to make their local public spaces more sociable, accessible and attractive. Projects of different sizes are welcome to apply for as little as $1,000 up to $10,000 for local activities and workshop programs with local residents. Council can help connect communities, artists and organisations with each other for potential projects, and provide advice on applications. All enquiries are welcome. The Magnetic Places Community Placemaking Grants Program is celebrating more than a decade of supporting over 80 creative projects that have transformed local places and communities. 2019

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grants are now open for new projects until Monday 1 July. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Magnetic Places is a unique and wonderful program that brings people together and transforms local public spaces. “Magnetic Places is an incredibly successful program that has grown each year and produces amazing creative projects and revitalised public spaces in some of Penrith’s oldest neighbourhoods”, Cr Fowler said. “In a time when we are more disconnected than ever, programs like these bring communities together and help people build social connections that continue on well beyond the life of each project,” he said. For more information and to view past projects, visit: penrith.city/magneticplaces

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Magnetic grants extended

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Dianne Bonello 0418 813 319 David Burnet 0412 448 883 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres. Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet. Phone for complete list of distribution outlets

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’m one of those people who has an internal default button that automatically puts up a resistance to change. It is one of my {many} faults; I don’t like having to reeducate myself on a new idea, train my mind to a new way of thinking or put up with the slightest inconvenience that comes with a new concept. The silly part is though, that after “surviving” through a change that has been a really great one, I look back and wonder why I carried on like a pork chop. One such change was Council’s introduction of the 3 bin service. I think it was about ten years ago that my big red bin was replaced with a green, yellow and red system. The old red bin that had housed every piece of rubbish now only played host to packaging and garbage that wasn’t organic or recyclable. Food scraps, biodegradable packaging and grass was to now go in the green bin and reusable containers and papers were to be tossed in the recycling bin. Oh, the inconvenience of it all! Council provided us with a cute counter-top bucket bin and bags for all the food scraps. We set up two bigger kitchen tidy bins in the kitchen; one for anything recyclable and the other for everything else. I began to see that the “inconvenience” was merely a matter of looking at an item and deciding which bin in went into. Alas, contrary to my usual modus operandi I began to like this new 3 bin system. Peeling potatoes straight over the bucket that would host the peels was actually quite convenient. As was the fact that the bottles and jars no longer took up the lion’s share of the space in my one bin. It didn’t even matter that the red bin was now picked up fortnightly, because once using the system correctly, there was no longer anything in the red bin that made it smell and it was only half full anyway. In 2017 we travelled to Vietnam and Cambodia. I was shocked to the core to see the amount of rubbish laying around. Beautiful coastlines marred by piles upon piles of discarded plastic bottles and packaging waste. I saw local families eating lunch and then just discarding the chicken bones onto the footpath. Rivers loaded with floating bottles and waste debris. Dead marine life due to the carelessness of uneducated or selfish humans. I’m now extremely proud of our Council’s system that makes us a little more accountable for our waste usage. Talking to the lovely ladies in waste services earlier this week, I was pleased to learn that the majority of residents have embraced the 3 bin system. Rural residents in our Council area are about to join the rest of us on the 3 bin system. Not only is it better for the environment, it is also a lot cheaper. Surely as human beings sharing this planet with other species, we can spend an extra minute or two per day organising our rubbish. It’s not an inconvenience. It is vital. Are you using the system correctly? Read more about the 3 bin system in our four page lift-out inside. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has reminded motor vehicle owners across Penrith to claim their CTP Green Slip refund with over $500,000 yet to be claimed. Stuart Ayres said while 62,370 local residents have claimed over $4.3 million in refunds, there are still over 10,000 people in Penrith that have money owed to them. “Claiming a refund is quick and easy. I encourage anyone who has yet to claim their refund to get online to claim or visit their nearest Service NSW

centre,” said Stuart Ayres. “The NSW Government has extended the deadline for claiming to 30 June 2019,” said Stuart Ayres. The NSW Government overhauled the CTP Green Slip Scheme to create a more affordable, lower cost scheme. This is one of a raft of NSW Government measures helping to ease cost of living pressures for households. The Government has also introduced free car registration for regular toll users, cheaper hospital car parking, and the FuelCheck app.

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

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

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ederal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh recently welcomed the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison and Minister for the NDIS and Government Services, the Hon Stuart Robert for an NDIS roundtable discussion. The round-table included Secretary of the Department of Social Services, Kathryn Campbell AO, Chair of the NDIA Board, Dr Helen Nugent AO and Acting CEO of the NDIA, Vicki Rundle and NDIS participants and their families. “This was an opportunity to listen about the experiences of participants dealing with the NDIS, to hear some of the good work being done but also the challenges we’ve got. The Prime Minister and I are committed to better understanding how the NDIS is working or not working for participants.” said Ms McIntosh. “Participants were invited to share their experiences with the NDIS and provide feedback on what is working and where we can improve services. It’s important that we get it right for the 460,000 Australians expected to benefit.” said Ms McIntosh. “Our government is committed to ensuring that we cut red tape and improve the experiences of participants and providers when they engage with the NDIS. “It’s wonderful that right here in Western Sydney, participants were able to speak directly with the Prime Minister, the Minister and key stakeholders.

“A new participant pathway has been rolled out to provide face to face planning and a consistent point of contact. “We’ve also implemented a pathway for participants with complex needs and a psychosocial stream with specialised planners. We’re also making changes to improve assistive technology and approval for Specialist Disability Accommodation,” said Ms McIntosh. This year the government announced price changes that will result in an injection of more than $850 million in to the NDIS every year. Ms McIntosh said this will ensure the growth of the NDIS services market and increase the choices available for NDIS participants to meet this goal.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Prime Minister attends Lindsay round-table on NDIS

local news

nce again, St Marys Rugby League Club are 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. Now in its 14th year, the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge is designed to give participants: • An appreciation of our military history • A respect for the sacrifice made by young Australians of a previous generation • An appreciation of a culture whose values are not based on materialism • An appreciation of the qualities necessary for teamwork • An appreciation of the characteristics of leadership and • An understanding of the purpose and value of community service This year’s trekkers were selected from an incredibly high calibre of applicants. “Every year, the applicants just seem to be even more impressive,” said Club President Warren Smith. “The final two we selected impressed us enormously and we are thrilled to sponsor them on this life-changing trek”. Saints 2019 Kokoda Trekkers are 17-year-old Katie Dal Santo from Penrith Christian School and Connor Burke, also 17, from Jamison High School. Katie, from Claremont Meadows is incredibly passionate about trekking Kokoda and will be following in the footsteps of her Great Grandfather, Private Reginald A G Mills who served in the Australian Army in Papua New

Guinea as an ambulance driver with the Second Motor Ambulance Convoy. She has completed her bronze and silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards and is currently working towards her gold. Katie is an active member of Orchard Hills Rural Fire Brigade where she has been a member since she was 12 years old. Katie spoke passionately about her experience in the rural fire brigade and shared with us her achievement of completing the 1504 stair climb of the Sydney Eye Tower to raise funds for MND Motor Neurone Disease – dressed in full structural gear including the 20kg air tank. Connor Burke is a young man from Glenmore Park who is immediately likeable and confident and was instantly an ideal candidate for the Kokoda Trek. He

is part of the schools Representative Council who work towards implementing new ideas to improve his school and is actively involved and dedicated to water polo and swimming, both of which he has competed in at a State and National Level. In 2018 Connor was given the opportunity to be a part of the Max Potential Program, a leadership development program that helps to connect emerging young leaders with local community leaders who provide the participants with coaching and training. Connor will be following in the footsteps of his Great Grandfather George Albert Marshman, who fought in Kokoda and was part of the 2nd/6th Australian Commando Squadron known as “The Purple Devils”.

Heritage protection for Penrith

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined Penrith City Council Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM to announce that heritage in Penrith is set to benefit from $23,000 in grants under the NSW Government Heritage Grants Program. Stuart Ayres said these grants would help local communities across Penrith to know, value and care for their heritage. Penrith City Council will receive a Heritage Assistance grant of $11,000 and $12,000 towards Heritage Advisor Services.

Stuart Ayres MP, Lorraine Stacker and Ross Fowler OAM

“Looking after our heritage is everyone’s responsibility and local communities play an important role in maintaining heritage at a local level.” Stuart Ayres said. Clr Fowler said Penrith has a long and interesting history and receiving grants such as these ensure our links to the past are preserved. The 2019-21 grants saw $5.8 million awarded to 241 projects statewide across three categories: Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, Caring for State Heritage and Community Heritage. Minister for Heritage, Don Harwin said

protecting local heritage was an important step towards celebrating NSW’s history as a whole and maintaining a physical record of the past. “Across NSW the Government is providing support for local heritage and indigenous groups, to protecting important heritage items ensuring communities maintain connection with their history” he said. For more information about the projects and the NSW Government’s Heritage Grants, see https:// www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/heritage/ grants-and-funding.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Local students selected for the trek of a lifetime…

local news

Vax rates makes for healthy future

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

› Speed limit changes Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from Monday night along the M4 Motorway between Mamre Road at St Clair and Reservoir Road at Prospect as part of the M4 Smart Motorway project. The speed limit was increased to 100 km/h in both directions from Monday 17 June. The speed limit along a section of the M4 Motorway near the M7 Motorway Light Horse interchange will remain at 80 km/h to allow construction vehicles to safely enter the area for work on the M7 ramps. The remaining 80 km/h roadwork speed limits along other sections of the M4 Motorway will remain in place while work continues. Once the M4 Smart Motorway project is complete, there will be around 40 maintenance bays along the M4 Motorway between Mulgoa Road and Pitt Street for emergency vehicles and breakdowns. Motorists are reminded to drive to speed limits and conditions at all times for the safety of road users. Roads and Maritime Services thanks motorists and the community for their ongoing patience while work is carried out. For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

arents are being congratulated for keeping their children’s vaccinations up to date, with almost 100 per cent of children across the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District fully vaccinated, but some, especially young ones are still missing out on potentially lifesaving treatment. NBMLHD Director of Public Health, Associate Professor Bradley Forssman says immunisation rates across the District are amongst the best in the state for the October – December 2018 quarter. “Our latest statistics show 99 per cent of Aboriginal children, and 95 per cent of non-Aboriginal children aged four, are fully immunised.” “These results are very welcome. The shots kids receive are helping to set them up for a healthy future.” “Vaccinations help defend young children from diseases including tetanus, polio and whooping cough. A vaccine is most effective once a full course has been completed,” says Associate Professor Forssman. “Getting immunised also helps you protect other vulnerable members of your family who are also experiencing illness.” The high immunisation rate for young Aboriginal children is a result of improved health education

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and increased awareness about vaccinations says Aboriginal Immunisation Health worker, Kelly Hodges. “As part of my role I help to create an understanding of what the benefits of getting a vaccination are and I help facilitate and remove the barriers that are preventing people from accessing vaccines.” “We work very closely with local GPs, our community health centres, mothers groups and schools to ensure that even the most busiest of families have access to the vaccines their children need,” says Ms Hodges. For more information relating to immunisations please visit the NSW Health website.

PLUMBER - PROJECTS Hix Group is seeking a versatile PLUMBER who enjoys a range of works on project sites and is keen to work across small and large projects. You will enjoy “being on the tools” and have projects experience ideally including construction, commercial and potentially government work. You will work under the direction of our Projects Manager, and Site Supervisor performing a range of site works along with other team members. You will be meticulous with quality, have experience in working both in a team and independently and have strong Work Health & Safety and Environmental Management values. Whilst our company is based in Penrith, work will be throughout the local and Sydney metro area with a focus on Western Sydney. We have a strong team culture, being a family owned, medium sized business with a number of trades divisions and are looking to add to our team of long term employees who are looking for security, training and opportunities for growth. You will: • Have a current “Whitecard” • Hold a current Plumbing Qualification • May hold an RIW Card • Ideally have experience in working on projects, particularly commercial and government sites • Have a Current drivers licence • Be Flexible to travel the Sydney metro area as required (our office is based in Penrith so you will most likely live within the area or western suburbs) • Have a strong customer focus & excellent communication skills • Be willing and able to use our electronic job management system • Be reliable and adaptable with a great work ethic • Be well presented, well spoken and proud to be a part of our team Why not submit your resume now to HR@hix.com.au to join Hix Plumbing Services (a part of Hix Group PTY LTD) for a fresh start in the new financial year? Contact Alex Hayward for any queries on (02) 47217500 or submit your covering letter & resume outlining your experience and suitability. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith is encouraging preschools across the region to apply for the NSW Government’s $4 million Capital Works Grants program, which is now open for applications. Stuart Ayres said this funding is part of the NSW Government’s $42.1 million investment in building new, and expanding existing early childhood services across the State. “There are more children attending 600 hours of preschool in NSW than ever before,” Stuart Ayres said. “This is why, as a Government, we need to support services to ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place to accommodate for the growing number of enrolments in preschools.” Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said this round of grants will accommodate for an additional 230 preschool places across the State. “Through the creation of more preschool places, even more children in NSW will have access to a topquality early childhood education, which will set them up for life,” Ms Mitchell said. “This Government knows how important an early childhood education is on a child’s emotional,

social and cognitive development, so it is crucial we support services to nurture kids to be the best they can be in the years before school.” The Start Strong Capital Works

Grants program is open to all not-forprofit community preschools in NSW and can be used to build new services, extend or renovate existing services, or respond to crisis situations.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Penrith preschools encouraged to apply for capital works grants

Applications will be open until early August 2019 and can be submitted via SmartyGrants. For more information, visit the Department of Education website.

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

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The Age of Retirement

John Sztelma (1994 Ford Salesperson of the Year) & Ross Sinclair By Noel Rowsell

ohn Sztelma has worked in Car Sales in Penrith for the past 35 years, starting with Sinclair Ford in 1983 until 2000, then with Heartland Holden for the following 19 years. However, all things must eventually come to an end and after all those years of unlocking, locking, moving, fuelling, washing and delivering a few thousand vehicles, John is retiring from the Motor industry. It has been a career to remember, with John qualifying for the Professional Salesperson Club with Sinclair Ford and the Salesperson Guild with Heartland Holden through car sales and customer service.

“It’s time to put my pen down and turn my computer off for the last time,” said John. “This industry has many a tale to tell, with a multitude of characters to never have a dull day!” “I have never regretted being in the motor trade,” said John. “It has certainly opened my eyes and taught me many things about people, both in and out of the industry.” “To the many friends I have made over the years ( yes, you my customers) I thank you for your loyalty and friendship you have bestowed on me, of which I will remember for a long time to come.” “And for the last time, I wish all of you ‘Many Happy Returns on your birthday’ for many years to come.” “To all my colleagues over the

John Sztelma with Heartland Holden’s Heritage FX Holden

years, thank you for putting up with my moods, my idiosyncrasies and yes, my bad jokes,” said John. “To the two people who gave me my first start (Ross Sinclair and Ray Smith from Sinclair Ford), I give you my gratitude for a career that I have enjoyed, the accolades I have received and the trips I have enjoyed.” “Most of all, I would like to thank my family - my wife Michelle for putting up with my long (work) hours, the stretch of days without a break, the “this sale and that sale” and for putting up with a car salesman for 36 years as long as we have been married,” said John. “To my two boys Josh and Jordan,

who have not known me as anything but a salesman all their lives but were always happy to see me walk through the door, no matter what time of day.” “Thank you to all of you for everything that I have been through – it certainly has been a ride to remember.” John’s final day will be Wednesday July 3rd but he is not planning to slow down, just moving along to the next chapter in his life. “I’m an Authorised Marriage Celebrant (since 1995) and I will be placing my energy into giving my utmost in this field, something I’ve only done on my days off for years,” said John.

Partnership drives improved safety and access Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM is joined by Kevin Songberg (J.Wyndham Prince), Rene Silva (J.Wyndham Prince), Tom Kent (Legacy Property), Garry Fletcher (PCC Engineering Services), Josh Hull (PCC Engineering Services) and Scott Hartog (JK Williams). The local design and construction teams contributed to success of the partnership between Council and Legacy Property to reconstruct O’Connell Street, Caddens.

he reconstruction of O’Connell Street, Caddens from a rural road to a collector road that moves traffic from local streets to arterial roads, has been given the “tick of approval” with its reopening to traffic recently. The old road with its narrow gravel shoulders, deteriorating road pavement, poor sight distances and inadequate street lighting has been completely replaced with kerb and gutter drainage, new road pavement, street lighting, shared cycleway, bus stops and shelters and the undergrounding of high voltage overhead power lines. The reconstruction was made possible through a Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with Legacy Property under the Caddens East Planning Agreement. The agreement

in collaboration with Penrith City Council sought to improve road safety and access for the community. Legacy Property is the developer of the new Caddens Hill which currently comprises of seven stages. Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the works represent a partnership between the public and private sector that has widespread community benefit. “O’Connell Street has received a significant upgrade which not only improves access between Caddens, Kingswood and Claremont Meadows, but importantly improves safety too,” Cr Fowler said. “I’d like to thank Legacy Property for their work on the O’Connell Street upgrade and the Caddens East Planning Agreement. It shows how organisations can work side by side

with Council to contribute positive outcomes for the community.” Legacy Property’s Thomas Kent said the $8m O’Connell Street upgrade will provide much needed transport connectivity for the rapidly growing Caddens Hill community.” “There are hundreds of residents living in Caddens Hill, with over 200 houses under construction and new residents moving in every week,” said Mr Kent, “The new walking/cycle paths, bus shelters and reconstructed road now provide Caddens Hill residents with better links to transport and employment opportunities around Penrith City.” “This significant infrastructure investment will also better connect the wider Caddens Hill community with the future shopping centre at

Caddens Corner.” said Mr Kent. The success of the project is largely attributed to the strong partnership between Council, Legacy Property, the local design team at J. Wyndham Prince and the local construction team at JK Williams. Overview of the re-constructed O’Connell Street: • collector road (that moves traffic from local streets to arterial roads) with kerb and gutter on both sides; • new road pavement; • upgraded drainage infrastructure; • dedicated parking lanes; • shared walking/cycle path along the southern side of O’Connell Street linking to the Caddens Hill; • new bus shelters; • undergrounding of high voltage overhead power lines, and; • provision of road safety barriers.

local news

he annual Afford’s Got Talent held at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith on 6 and 7 June was a celebration of individuality, self expression and offered people with disability from across Sydney the chance to let their talents shine. Afford is a leading disability service provider in Australia that goes above and beyond traditional service offerings, such as staging Afford’s Got Talent, to support every individual achieve their goals under the NDIS. Now in its 5th year, Afford’s Got Talent has evolved to become more than just a talent show. The event is a forum for people with a disability to come together, in a supportive space, to celebrate every individual’s unique talents and abilities. The event is held to encourage every person, of every ability to get up and have a go. It is now a highly anticipated event for every member of the Afford community. Performers from across Afford’s Day Programs, Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs), SLES programs and Group Homes practice routines and songs many weeks and months in advance to finally then take to the stage. The event featured both group and individual performances with the stage always brimming with colour,

Penrith Group Home residents

movement and, of course, smiles! Residents of Afford Group Homes in Penrith opened Afford’s Got Talent with a welcome to country and leading attendees in singing the Australian national anthem. Residents from Penrith Group Homes also performed I Wanna Dance with Somebody later in the evening. Cherrywood Day Program clients

Cherrywood Day Program

Jamisontown Day Program

showcased some cool dance moves in their rendition of We Will Rock You. Clients from Jamisontown Day Program performed a colourful number of Agadoo; with smiles on their faces the entire time. Nathan, from Jamisontown Day Program, performed a beautiful rendition of Straight to the Heart of Love as a solo performance and had

the crowd captivated the entire time. Steven Herald, Afford CEO, says that Afford’s Got Talent is unique to Afford and is staged purely for the enjoyment of members of the Afford community. “Afford’s Got Talent is about each and every client. It showcases their determination and will to achieve and perform in front of a group of peers, family and friends.” “For months leading up to the event, performers work very hard to learn lyrics and perfect dance moves. It’s amazing to see all the hard work come together and the wonderful talent that we have in our Afford community.” “There are a range of sensational performances that entertain and amaze the audience each and every year. Many in the audience are keen to sing and dance along as well.” “There are also performances that are emotionally moving. They’re the ones that you remember for a long time and that make everyone at Afford feel privileged to be sharing in the journeys of these amazing individuals.” Costumes, makeup and performances are all coordinated by each Afford service. The music for performances are chosen after discussions between Afford staff and clients to ensure that the performance reflects the personal interests of everyone involved. Afford is one of Australia’s longest serving not-for-profit disability organisations and continuously goes beyond traditional service offerings to deliver new life experiences, work opportunities and lifelong friendships. Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in Australia for over 65 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people every day. For more information about Afford, visit www.afford.com.au or call 1300 233 673.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Penrith Celebrates All Abilities at Afford’s Got Talent

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

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Ultimate lifestyle living on Jordan Springs Lake

itting on the shoreline of a scenic lake, Geneva is one of Jordan Spring’s most desirable landmark developments. The project was conceived by prominent Sydney developers and builders, Coplex, after the outstanding success of their La Park development in Penrith. The development comprises two separate buildings known Ariana and Barton. Coplex is one of Sydney’s most esteemed builder / developers of high quality residential apartments. As a family business, Coplex has created a trusted team with unrivalled experience in design, construction, innovation and sustainability. No matter what or where the project, Coplex is driven by a passionate desire to create liveable communities that will thrive in the future. Geneva is a low rise low density lakefront apartment development that has been pitched at aspiring young singles / couples and discerning downsizers / early retirees. The lakefront position and preeminent architecture distinguishes the development from any other residential apartment development in western Sydney. The development was designed by renowned architects, Architex, and features a strikingly elegant contemporary façade and timeless luxurious fittings and finishes. Each apartment has generous open plan living areas and either lake or national park views. Common amenities are contained to one lift and a rooftop terrace to

minimise strata levies. According to Coplex’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Paul Woodbury, the project has been well received by a disillusioned / passive sector of the market; namely young singles / couples and downsizers / early retirees, who desire low maintenance, secure and affordable freehold strata title living but loath the plethora of high rise, high density investment blocks and leasehold title over 55’s / retirement living complexes with service and exit fees available in the market place. As a project marketer, it is extremely rewarding to experience the strong engagement / reaction

when prospective purchasers inspect our site and marketing display suite. Bearing in mind purchasing off the plan is new to our target market we have built a marketing display suite on the Jordan Springs Lake foreshore to allow prospective purchasers to touch and feel our fittings and finishes and appreciate the panoramic lake views. Whilst it is not the industry norm we also include a comprehensive schedule of fittings and finishes and floor plan with scale in all sale contracts. These little but important touches, coupled with the proven track record of the builder / developer and the

fact we are under construction gives prospective purchasers enormous piece of mind when buying off the plan. Jordan Springs is a new award winning masterplan development (Urban Development Institute of NSW Best Masterplan 2014) 7 kilometres north east of Penrith. The estate was developed by national masterplan developer, Lend Lease, and includes a neighbourhood shopping centre (Woolworth’s supermarket and 16 speciality shops), community centre, child care centre, proposed primary school (estimated completion early 2021), village oval and central lake (Jordan Springs Lake) in the town centre and pocket parks in each residential precinct. Coplex were attracted to the Penrith region due to the strong underlying financial and economic fundamentals such as the $3 billion investment capital committed in pipeline projects, 69,000 projected new local jobs in the next 20 years and 53,709 projected population growth (25,029 projected household growth) by 2036. Mr Woodbury commented that, with Geneva, I am very fortune that I have location, product and price. It is these key attributes and the uniqueness of the development that have yielded strong sales to date. Whilst the Barton building sold out last year, we still have a wide range of configurations, aspects, views and price points in the Ariana building. Notwithstanding the above, we strongly recommend any prospective buyers act now to avoid disappointment. Current prices range from $427,000, $499,000 and $632,000 for the one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments respectively. To learn more and to register your interest, visit www.genenajordansprings.com.au or call Paul Woodbury direct on 0404 055 333.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

local news

New blood donor needed every five minutes By KeRRIE DAVIES

he Australian Red Cross Blood Service joined forces with entertainer Jimmy Rees to encourage more Sydney residents to roll-up their sleeves and donate blood, by launching the country’s first 24hr donate-athon, Bloody Great Friday. “Many of us may be surprised to learn that Australia needs a new blood donor every five minutes, however while one in three of us will need blood during our lifetime, only one in thirty donate,” says entertainer Jimmy Rees aka Jimmy Giggle from ABC For Kids flagship program Giggle and Hoot. “To mark World Blood Donor Day and highlight the need for new donors, the Blood Service held Australia’s first 24-hour donate-a-thon, Bloody Great Friday, at CBD centres in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.” The Bloody Great Friday event was aimed to raise awareness about the need for 99,000 new donors over the next 12 months and to encourage people to become blood donors. “You never know when you, or someone you love, will need blood. Donating blood is quick and easy so I encourage everyone who can to become a blood donor,” Rees said. “I recently experienced first-hand how vital it is we have enough blood donors when my baby son, Mack, unexpectedly needed an emergency blood transfusion. I am forever grateful to the donors who saved my son’s life.”

Blood donations only last for 42 days so the need for blood never stops. There is no substitute for blood and we need blood of every type, every day to save the lives of thousands of Australians. A third of donated blood goes to people with cancer and blood diseases and 20 per cent to surgical patients. Australia needs around 25,000 donations every week. “In Sydney we saw 316 people during the 24 hour donate-a-thon which is just fantastic,” a Blood

Service spokesperson said. “We’re so thrilled so many people were involved and how far our message of needing a new blood donor every five minutes has spread. “The need for blood never takes a break, so don’t worry if you couldn’t donate on Bloody Great Friday, making a blood donation at any time will still save lives.” To make an appointment to donate please call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au.

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local news

Injectables based on price

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

s your decision to have cosmetic injectables based on price? How do you choose which clinic to have your aesthetic treatments at? I receive many phone and email enquiries asking the price for fillers and the unit price for muscle relaxant injections. Too often focused on price, enquiries often fail to ask or consider the following aspects – • Reputations • Level of experience of the injectors • Medical supervision of the nurse injector • Brand of dermal fillers T.G.A. approved? • Clinic setting and emergency equipment • Ability to treat complications • Medical insurance • Consultation process, education but no pressure sales.

• Client testimonials • Follow up service • Progress notes and records • The same person treating you each time In my experience when I have had to repair cheap work, the client often does not know what filler was

The G Spot

oday’s story is going to be about procrastination, well maybe it is going to be anyway who knows? In my type of industry, the beloved procrastinators are almost a breed of their own. I truly believe that there is an island somewhere in the pacific that is just filled with procrastinators, and they are just bumping into tropical palm trees rubbing their heads and moving to the next palm to knock themselves on. They are all starving to death because they can’t decide what to eat, there is no cabins, light or fires, it is just vast land with people aimlessly walking over the island, almost like a scene from Walking Dead, except these people are not zombies, well I

don’t believe so? I call them “The serial navel pickers” you know, the people that just pick the fluff from their navels and wonder if at birth their tube was cut internally or externally and does this particular useless apparatus look attractive? The little dot thing that sits on my stomach and serves no purpose except to aid the procrastinator, well I guess anyway? Why am I writing this? Well you see, in my line of work, if I had a dollar for every time I said “I told you so” I would be probably sipping a Moet from Jimmy Choo shoes on Frank Lowie’s boat somewhere. Then we have the people that lack pro-activeness. Whilst the two P’s – Procrastination & lack of Pro-activeness are like

used. Unfortunately, there are non TGA approved cheap fillers / fakes that can be obtained on the internet. It’s difficult to treat and correct when we don’t know what fillers were used. Unfortunately, when client’s choices are based on price and things go wrong they often pay less, but pay twice and then even more to fix it. What is your decision based on? Price, Special Groupon offers, Botox parties a friend of a friend? Reviews are not always reliable because happy people rarely bother to do a google review or are secretive, but one rare emotional disgruntled client can bring the stars and ratings down. Think again, and consider the cost if there’s complications. Are you price driven or do the results matter to you? Often medical clinics maybe slightly dearer but you have to compare what’s included in the service. Medical Cosmetic Clinic’s offer the same experienced practitioner, after hour’s attention if needed, full consultation, safety, follow up appointments all-inclusive in their price. My advice is to choose experience, reputation and service over price.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Nita

Ask

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

chalk and cheese and ebony and ivory, they are still on par with each other, however when you get a human with both these wonderful ground-breaking qualities, I think the technical medical and scientific term for this may be “royally stuffed!” Just saying. So, you may be asking, what the hell has this got to do with security? And get on with it you crazy woman. The two P’s, to the security industry is like kryptonite to superman. Why? I hear you ask. Well? You would be surprised how many people I speak to who say that they don’t need any form of security because it will never happen to them, no one would steal what they sell, we have good neighbours, we have high fences, we have a savage dog and the

friggn list goes on, and on and on. Sigh…. However (as I gulp my coffee on this frosty morning, whilst typing this), I then get a phone call, usually with a person screaming frantically down the phone asking for me to pull security techs out of my rear end at midnight, because ….. They have been broken into. I usually get the words “yes I know you told me, but..” So whilst I don’t have to tell you the rest, the two P’s can be very dangerous in most, if not all, situations in life. So there you have it- Pro-activeness for PM, no zombies were hurt or injured during this story, and I would like to sit on an island and play with my navel any day, and stay right away from the two P’s.

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Legends of the Nepean

Garry Rumble OAM By Noel Rowsell

Garry & Louise Rumble

arry Rumble has been a prominent figure in Penrith throughout his adult life, not only working with Penrith City Council for 31 years but also working diligently and extensively in the community with Apex, Rotary and Probus. Born in 1941 in Leura, Garry began his life in community services as a teenager with the Blue Mts District Hospital Auxilliary Services Youth Group, helping to raise funds for equipment. Garry married wife Louise in 1965 (also in Leura) and the couple had two children, son Chris and daughter Jodie. Garry joined the Penrith Apex Club in 1973 and in addition to serving as Apex 40 Vice President for 8 years, served in several other positions from 1973-1982.

He subsequently joined Penrith Rotary in 1985 and served through to 1993, before chartering the Nepean Rotary Club in 1993. In addition to serving as President, Garry held various Director positions within Nepean Rotary and has enjoyed an unbroken 26-year run with the Club, achieving outstanding personal goals and innumerable Club achievements along the way. A Justice of the Peace (JP) since 1966, Garry has collected awards for services to the Penrith community on a regular basis, including Life Membership of Penrith Apex in 1982, Paul Harris Fellow in 1997, Paul Harris Sapphire, the Centenary Medal in 2000, International Year of the Volunteers in 2001 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2009. Garry was the Convenor for the formation of Nepean Riverlands Probus Club in 2003, Convenor for the formation of Glenmore Park Probus

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Garry Rumble OAM was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Bob Sproule. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

Christopher, Jodie, Garry & Louise Rumble with Governor of NSW Dame Marie Roslyn Bashir AD, CVO

Club in 2005 and was president of the Nepean Probus Club in 2012. He was also a committee member of the Olympic Torch Relay and Paralympic Games from 19982000 and a member of the original committee in 1985, which organised the relocation of the Penrith Museum of Fire to it’s current location. Garry was Vice Chairman of the Fire Museum from 2001-2018 and has also been a Clean-Up Australia Coordinator for the past 20 years. Whilst packing all of the above into his personal free time, Garry’s achievements on Penrith City Council have also had a huge impact on the

AL I C R ast* E SP FFE ks L O toc il t n

Garry Rumble & Governor of NSW Dame Marie Roslyn Bashir AD, CVO

local community. These include the introduction of ‘Wheelie’ waste disposal bins into households in the Penrith District in 1982, the establishment of a computer system to track building applications in 1985, installation of the ‘floating weir’ on the Nepean River and acting as liaison with both the State Emergency Service (SES) and the Rural Bush Fire Brigade. Garry held the position of Local Emergency Management Officer from 1989, represented Council on the Flood Mitigation Management Authority of NSW and was Chief Warden of the Emergency Evacuation

Team for the Civic Centre from the time of it’s opening. Garry had also been on the Civic Centre Construction Project Team and was involved in the promotion of the ‘one stop counter’ concept. His administrative and leadership skills allowed him to reach high positions within Council, including Director of City Operations and Director of City Services. Garry’s final position in Council prior to his retirement was Safety, Emergency and Waste Services Manager. He served 31 years with Penrith City Council and 42 years in local

government, which began with 6 years with the Blue Mountains City Council then 5 years with Bankstown City Council. “I first started with Penrith City Council as a District Health Surveyor, then progressed through the ranks to be appointed Health and building Services Manager in 1988,” Garry said. “Following a Council restructure in 1996, I was appointed Safety, Emergency and Waste Services Manager and remained in that role until my retirement.” Garry was suitably honoured with a farewell dinner from Council in 2001, with a two-page testament to his impact on Penrith compiled for the occasion by Council’s then OH&S / Employee Relations Officer Jim Mason. Three years after retirement, Garry was elected as a Penrith City Councillor and served in that role from 2004-2008. Garry has recently been awarded Life Membership of Nepean Riverlands Probus Club.

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Riverside Theatres presents Griffin Theatre Company’s - Prima Facie

inner of the 2018 Griffin Award, and following the premiere season at Griffin Theatre Company, Suzie Miller’s (Sunset Strip, Caress/Ache, All the Blood and All the Water) sharp and poignant Prima Facie comes to Riverside Theatres in July. Prima Facie is an indictment of the Australian legal system’s failure to provide reliable pathways to justice for women in rape, sexual assault or harassment cases. Though it is a work of fiction, Miller’s superb script could have been ripped right from the headlines of any of today’s newspapers. Acclaimed performer Sheridan Harbridge (Ch 7’s Dr Blake Murder Mysteries, Belvoir’s The Sugar House) stars as Tessa—a criminal lawyer at the top of her game who knows the law permits no room for emotion. Tessa loves to win, even when defending clients accused of sexual assault. Her court-ordained duty trumps her feminism. But when she finds herself on the other side of the bar, Tessa is forced into the same brutal shadows of doubt she has so ruthlessly cast over other women. Beautifully directed by Griffin’s Artistic Director and Helpmann Award-winning director, Lee Lewis (The Bleeding Tree, Kill Climate

Deniers), Prima Facie is a taut, rapidfire and gripping one-woman show that exposes the shortcomings of a patriarchal justice system where it’s her word against his. Writer Suzie Miller Director Lee Lewis Design Renée Mulder Composition and Sound Design Paul Charlier Lighting Design Trent Suidgeest

What: Prima Facie When: 7.45pm on 3rd to 6th July and 2.15pm 6th July 2019 Tickets: Adult $62, Concession $57. Available www. riversideparramatta.com.au/show/ prima-facie/ or from the Box Office

(02) 8839 3399. Discounts available for Riverside Theatres’ Members. Transaction fees: phone $4.60, web $3.60 and counter $2.60. Where: Riverside Theatres corner of Church and Market Sts, Parramatta.

Warning signs of dementia T

he early signs of dementia are very subtle and may not be immediately obvious. Early symptoms also vary a great deal. Usually though, people first seem to notice that there is a problem with memory, particularly in remembering recent events. Memory loss that affects day-today function It’s normal to occasionally forget appointments or a friend’s phone number and remember them later. A person with dementia may forget things more often and not remember them at all. Confusion about time and place It’s normal to forget the day of the week - for a moment. But a person with dementia may have difficulty finding their way to a familiar place, or feel confused about where they are. Problems with language Everyone has trouble finding the right word sometimes, but a person with dementia may forget simple words or substitute inappropriate words, making sentences difficult to understand. Problems with abstract thinking Balancing a cheque-book can be difficult for anyone, but a person with dementia may have trouble knowing what the numbers mean.

Poor or decreased judgment A person with dementia may have difficulty judging distance or direction when driving a car. Problems misplacing things Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or keys. A person with dementia may put things in inappropriate places. Changes in personality or behaviour

Everyone becomes sad or moody from time to time. Someone with dementia can exhibit rapid mood swings for no apparent reason. They can become confused, suspicious or withdrawn. A loss of initiative It’s normal to tire of some activities. But dementia may cause a person to lose interest in previously enjoyed

activities. Only a medical practitioner such as your local doctor or specialist can diagnose dementia. If a firm diagnosis has been made, it is helpful to find out about dementia and the support that is available to help you manage. Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

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ENTERTAINMENT

rushes, lenses and pencils poised – artist registrations are now open for the annual Springwood Art Show to be held during the August 2-4 weekend. The first and longest running art show in the Blue Mountains, which helped establish the Blue Mountains’ reputation as an arts hub and recognised ``city of the arts’’, will again showcase the best established and emerging talent in the area. The art show, which will feature more than 400 pieces of original art from more than 100 predominantly local artists, is an opportunity for artists to showcase their work to shrewd investors and art collectors as well as casual buyers. As well as painting, sculpture and photography, the art show will include a range of quality artisan crafts such as leather handbags, jewellery, woodwork and textiles. Held at Springwood High School and co-ordinated by the Parents & Citizens Association (P&C), the event directly supports students of the school with 25 per cent of all sales of artworks and crafts, and all money raised from admission, café and raffle

used to buy educational resources. Generous local and corporate sponsors will ensure a prize pool of more than $4000 which, this year, includes categories for portraiture, landscape and a viewers’ choice, along with a new still life category and the coveted $1500 Rose Lindsay Award. This year’s show will be judged by photographer Ben Pearse, landscape painter Corinne Loxton and mixed media artist Tim Newman.

P&C president Elaine Tjoelker said: “The art show without fail uncovers so much fabulous talent from within our student and wider community. “It’s so exciting to see our kids’ masterpieces hanging alongside established artists and, going by the number of student pieces bought by savvy investors and talent scouts, art lovers obviously think they are of a high standard too.’’ The P&C appreciated the

involvement of the professional arts community, including Blue Mountains Cultural Centre and established artists for many years, she said. School principal Dr Mark Howie said Springwood Art Show was a long-recognised event on the wider community calendar attended by several thousand people. “Not only do artists have the opportunity to sell pieces directly to an interested market, the 25 per cent retained from sales is a competitive gallery commission which directly benefits the wellbeing of students of the school,’’ he said. Springwood Art Show will be held at Springwood High School, Grose Rd, Faulconbridge, from August 2 to 4, with an official opening program on the Friday evening and activities and a café throughout the weekend. Go to springwoodartshow.org.au for more information. Register your interest in submitting art to springwoodartshow@gmail. com.

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Brushes poised for Springwood Art Show

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

local news

Online pet registration services get tails wagging in Penrith

ver 1,500 dog and cat owners in the across Penrith and the Blue Mountains have taken advantage of new and improved online systems to register their pets from the comfort of their own homes. Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said the local pet owners are among 12,813 cat and dog owners across NSW who have used the NSW Pet Registry to register their pets since a new and improved website launched in October. An additional 1556 owners have paid pet registration fees via Service NSW since it was added as a convenient new method in November – 97 per cent of these online. Stuart Ayres urged people to use the convenient online channels to register their pet. “These new and improved online services are another example of how the NSW Government is making the customer experience the central focus in our delivery of services,” Stuart Ayres said. “I’m pleased to see the new online services have proven so popular within our local community. “Pet registration fees go straight back into our local community, funding animal shelters, ranger services, dog recreation areas and education and awareness activities in the Penrith and Blue Mountains Council areas.” Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said it was encouraging to see so many people using

the new and improved registration methods and encouraged pet owners to explore the improved NSW Pet Registry website. “Creating a NSW Pet Registry profile is the easiest way for you to be contacted if your missing pet is found,” Mrs Hancock said. Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello encouraged pet owners to utilise digital kiosks

at the 99 Service NSW Centres across the State or online using a MyServiceNSW Account. “People can use their MyServiceNSW Account from any computer or mobile device or visit their nearest Service NSW Centre with their cat or dog’s microchip number to pay their pet registration fee,” Mr Dominello said. “We are making life easier for citizens by linking more and more transactions to the MyServiceNSW Account. The pet registry is a great example of how we are helping people to save time and money by delivering more digital service options.” The recently added features of the NSW Pet Registry include: • Upload a photo of your pet - Pet owners and breeders can upload a photo of their pet on the Pet Profile page to help identify and return the animal should it get lost • Lost and found - If the microchip number of a lost cat or dog is known, a member of the public can use the Registry to send a secure message to the pet owner with their contact details alerting them that they have found their pet • Search function - Prospective pet owners can use the Registry to find out important information before buying a cat or dog. Using a microchip number, they can access the animal’s breed, age, gender and whether or not it is de-sexed • Create/add a litter - Breeders can create a litter and add offspring to their online pet profile, making it easier for vets to update animal records.

Healthy pocket pets

abbits and guinea pigs make excellent pets when you’ve got less space (but more love) to give. They’re notoriously clean animals and believe it or not, rabbits can be litter trained just like cats. That means your pocket pal can enjoy time to roam the house, just as long as you keep an eye on them around any possible dangers or loose items like cables and power cords.

Rabbits and guinea pigs are planteaters or ‘herbivores’ and require an adequate intake of vegetables, fruits, pellets, and fibrous grass and hay. However, rabbits are classed as ‘lagomorphs’ while guinea pigs are classed as ‘rodents’. This means the dietary requirements of a rabbit differs slightly from that of a guinea pig. While rabbits produce their own vitamin C, guinea pigs can’t, so a diet including adequate amounts of

vitamin C is essential. It is safe for your guinea pig to consume rabbit food and vice versa, which is why you’ll often find rabbit and guinea pig pellets blended in the same product at your local pet store. Just make sure the food you select is nutritionally complete and high quality. Fruits and vegetables provide high levels of vitamins and minerals. You can safely treat your rabbit or guinea pig to asparagus, basil, broccoli,

carrots & carrot tops (as a rare treat – they are high in sugar), cauliflower leaves and stalks, celery, spinach and tomatoes just to name a few. Avoid potato tops and rhubarb (including the leaves)and limit your rabbit or guinea pig’s vegetable intake to a variety of two to three different greens each day. This will reduce the chance of an upset tummy while promoting healthy teeth. If your rabbit or guinea pig does not have enough to gnaw on, dental problems can occur. Teeth may become overgrown, causing significant health issues in your pet. Rabbits and guinea pigs have teeth that constantly grow throughout their life. Their diet is an essential part of controlling this growth and maintaining that beautiful smile. Biting, chewing, gnawing and grinding of food will help keep your rabbit or guinea pig’s teeth at a healthy length. Specially designed dental treats and toys can also assist in healthy mouth maintenance. Rabbits and guinea pigs need the same medical care and attention as any other furry companion. Keep them healthy and happy by booking regular health checks with us at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave.

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

YOUR 3-BIN SYSTEM We’re excited that rural properties in Penrith City will join the 55,0000 households using the 3-bin waste service in July 2019. The 3-bin service reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill and improves recycling rates while maintaining low domestic waste charges (the fees you pay).

What does this mean?

On the 3-bin system you have a weekly green-lid bin for all your food and garden organics. That means you need to sort your waste with all food and garden waste going in the green-lid bin, and significantly reducing the amount of waste going into your red-lid bin, and into landfill. The green-lid bin goes out every week while the yellow-lid recycling bin and red-lid residual garbage bin goes out on alternate weeks.

Choosing the right bins

There are a range of service options you can choose to make sure you have the right size bins for your needs. If you are leasing your property, please consider your tenants’ needs when selecting. We recommend the Sustainable service - this is the cheapest option and should provide ample capacity once you’re using the green-lid bin.

Why is this good for me?

Penrith is a recognised leader in sustainable waste management, particularly in household organic waste recycling. Council is committed to actively supporting our community to reduce waste sent to landfill through reducing, reusing, recycling and generally disposing of waste responsibly. The 3-bin Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) system is one of the best ways we can reach those goals. It’s good for the environment and also helps keep the waste cost in your rates down. If you have any questions, please contact Council’s Waste Services team on 4732 7777 and our friendly staff will help you with your request.

COUNCIL SUPPLIED GREEN COMPOSTABLE BAGS What are the bags for?

The green compostable bags are supplied by Penrith Council for the Green-lid organics bin. They are specially designed and have been tested to break down during the six week composting process.

how do i use them?

Food and other organic waste can be collected in the bag, tied off and put into the green-lid organics bin. Council’s kitchen tidy bin can assist with food scrap collection. If you would like a kitchen tidy bin, they are available for purchase from Council offices in Penrith or St Marys at a cost of $11*. Alternatively, you can use the bags to line a container of your own choosing.

how often are they delivered?

Green compostable bags are delivered free of charge to every household with the 3-Bin Waste Service four times a year.

how do i get more?

If you need more bags, you can collect extras from the Penrith or St Marys Office, or at the Council Libraries, located at Penrith, St Marys and St Clair. Alternatively, bulkier or excess food waste can also be wrapped in newspaper, or placed loosely in the green lid organics bin.

can i use other bags?

No. Please do not use other bags, even if they are advertised as biodegradable or compostable as they may not meet the standards required by our composting facility. The use of any other types of bags will be treated as contamination and will be disposed of in landfill.

do the bags expire?

These bags will last at least 12 months if stored correctly. Please store the bags in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent bags from breaking down prematurely.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT BINS Council offers a number of services and bin options to suit every household.

We recommend the Sustainable service - this is the cheapest option and should provide ample capacity once you’re using the green-lid bin.

Choosing is easy Call us on 4732 7777 and one of our Waste Services team will help you.

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

Game 2 - Sun 23rd June Game 3 - Wed 10th July win the best seats in the house! Raffle tickets for the “best seats in the house!” This will be done for all three games. $2 each or 3 for $5. Winner gets best seats in the house to watch the State of Origin, $100 bar tab and a hot food platter served at half time!

WIN A JERSEY... 3 to be WON! Watch the State of Origin at The Penrith Gaels, buy a beverage to get a ticket into the draw for a jersey. Winner will be drawn after each game.

HAPPY HOUR PRICES DURING EACH GAME!

SATURDAY 6TH JULY, 8.30PM

Christmas In July Dinner Sunday 21st July In the JA Room. Doors open 5pm. 2 course meal and a glass of bubbly. Entertainment by Steppin’ Out 5.30-8.30pm A tribute show to Christy Moore, Luke Kelly & the Wolf Tones by Paddyman

sunday 14th july, 2-6pm

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FRI 21 JUNE SAT 22 JUNE SUN 23 JUNE - 8PM - 7PM - 8PM State of Skyz The Felicity Origin Limit Robinson Duo

FRI 28 JUNE - 8PM The Quokkas

SAT 29 JUNE - 7PM Us Too

SUN 30 JUNE - 5.30PM Blackwater

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Enter a medieval realm this winter

t Winterfest Sydney Medieval Fair, you can enter a medieval realm which brings the settings of Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings to vibrant life! Escape the everyday and explore a world of history and fantasy at this popular family friendly fair. From knights, Vikings and peasants to unicorns and orcs, the two day event features an extensive program to delight the whole family. Winterfest is one of the longest running annual medieval fairs in the Sydney metro region. It is held on the first weekend of the winter school holidays, 6 and 7 July, at the Hawkesbury Showground, located between Richmond and Windsor. There is a wonderful line up of entertainment which gives you the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in another world. Here is a taste of what is on show. - The exciting Winterfest Jousting Tournament: see the faceoff between champions in the sport of kings! - International Full Contact Fighting: The best from Australia, New Zealand, and China compete in the Historical Medieval Battles (HMB) tournament for selection to represent their country in the Battle of the Nations World Championships! - Graceful and powerful raptors fly free in the Full Flight Birds of Prey display. Learn about birds of prey in

Australia and the history of falconry. - Melee Battles with knights in armour from a range of historical periods. Watch the groups battle for supremacy in the ‘Combat and Arms’ display, which concludes with the ‘Grand Melee’! - The Mounted Skill-at-Arms: demonstrating the skills required for knights in training and for battle. - The Re-enactors’ Row: here you can try helmets, armour, shields and weapons. Friendly re-enactors from the dark ages through to the 17th century enjoy sharing their knowledge about the people and period they are re-enacting. Have a go at hands on activities including a traditional archery range,

Celtic drumming workshops, and the chance to learn to use a rapier. Meet mythical mermaids in the Kids Corner, and take a photo with Winterfest unicorns. Children can practice their skills with (safe) swords and get creative with medieval themed drawing, colouring and crafts. Visit the ‘Artisan Alley’ with lots of educational and interactive displays of traditional skills, and take a stroll through the ‘Merchant’s Row’ to browse the vibrant range of stalls including quality artisan and handcrafted wares. Roaming entertainers add to the festival atmosphere, including musicians and minstrels, and ‘Feldergast the Fool’, the delightful

wandering jester. There is face painting for the children and a great selection of quality food vendors to choose from. Immerse yourself in the festival environment by wearing something a bit different from the usual. The Winterfest Costume and Cosplay competition returns in 2019. Join the competition parade for judging, or if that’s not your thing, you may be surprised with an on the spot prize. Come along in a medieval-inspired outfit or fantasy style clothing; all medieval periods, cultures, and styles are welcome. With so much to do, explore and discover, Winterfest is perfect school holiday family entertainment. Tickets are now on sale through ticketebo.com.au/winterfest. Prepurchase your tickets now to take advantage of exclusive online discounts. For more information about Winterfest, please visit winterfest. com.au and like us at facebook.com/ WinterfestSydney.

Celebrate Yulefest in our stunning Blue Mountains

he first flurries of snow have fallen over the wild Blue Mountains landscape – just in time for Yulefest in Australia’s first tourist destination. Bookings are now open for warming winter activities such as toasty fireside dining, river cruising, vintage motorcar tours and heartwarming classic humour, all within a leisurely drive from the Hawkesbury. A regional tradition since 1980, mid-winter Yulefest is the season for which the Blue Mountains is most famous. After the exhilarating zing of a chilly day spent exploring the lookouts and bushwalking tracks of the magnificent Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, shopping at charming villages and visiting attractions, sojourners are warmly invited indoors for steaming drinks, fireside dining and rousing entertainment. Numerous hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, cafes and restaurants celebrate the winter festival, enlivened by warming entertainment. Guest services manager of Escarpment Group collection of luxury hotels, Meagan Iervasi, encouraged visitors to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere by staying at least one night.

“Yulefest in the Blue Mountains offers the European-style atmosphere people associate with Christmas – a chilly landscape outside and cosiness inside with roaring fires, hot food and drinks, traditional decorations and festive music, but without the stress and frosty relatives. Sometimes there’s even snow,’’ Meagan said. Owner of Mountain Whispers Leura and Katomba, Lorraine Allanson said Yulefest provided the perfect opportunity to capture the best parts of Christmas and share them with friends. “While Christmas is about family, Yulefest is a great time to take a midyear break to focus on romance or time with your friends to indulge and escape the daily grind.’’

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ENTERTAINMENT

with Michael Creed from Thor’s Cafe Penrith

Lemon Tart rolling out. 5. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Allow dough to return to room temperature before rolling out onto a lightly floured surface. Press dough into tart pan. 6. Pre-bake pie crust by covering the dough in the pan with aluminium foil and then covering the foil with beans or pie weights. Set pan on a baking sheet and bake in the centre of the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the foil and the baking beans or pie weights, and return pan to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes. To prevent the filling from making the pastry soggy, brush pre-baked crust with beaten egg, then return pan to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, until the crust is set and shiny. For lemon filling: 1. Turn oven down to 150°C. To make the lemon filling, put the eggs, sugar, lemon zest and juice and butter into a food processor and blend until smooth. 2. Set the baked pie crust on a baking sheet and pour in the filling. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour (it may need a little longer, depending on your oven), until just set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving. 3. Serve at room temperature with a spoonful of sour cream or crème fraîche, if using.

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Ingredients: Shortcut pastry dough • 2C plain flour, plus extra for dusting • 1/2t salt • 2T confectioners’ sugar • 9T unsalted butter, chilled and diced • 2 large egg yolks • 2T ice water • 1 egg, beaten Lemon Filling • 6 extra-large eggs • 2-1/3C granulated sugar • Finely grated zest and strained lemon juice of 4 juicy unwaxed lemons • 1-1/4 sticks unsalted butter, melted sour cream or crème fraîche, to serve Method: For shortcut pastry dough 1. Sift the flour, salt and confectioners’ sugar together in a bowl, then crumble in the butter using your fingertips. 2. Mix the egg yolks with the ice water and then add to the dry ingredients, mixing lightly with a knife. If the dough is still too dry, add a little more water, sprinkling it over the flour mixture one tablespoon at a time. 3. Roll out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead with your hands until smooth. 4. Form the dough into a ball, cover in plastic wrap, and let chill for at least 30 minutes before

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Mike’s Pantry

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Local Lion’s executive The Housing Question officers changeover

Narelle Jubelin and Helen Grace

he local Lions Club’s from Emu Plains, Penrith and Cambridge Park, celebrated their ‘changeover’ recently at Penrith Bowling Club. A changeover refers to the election or re-election of the Executive Officers of the Club; i.e. the President, Secretary, Treasurer and Memberships Manager. For the Emu Plains Club, the incoming Executive is President; Alan Cooper, Secretary; Sue Hunt, Treasurer; Cheryl Devine and Memberships Manager; John Choma. The changeover was also a celebration of Emu Plains Lions’ award from the Australian Lions Foundation, for its’ highest honour; the Foundations’ William R Tresise Fellowship Award, for outstanding

service to the community. Outgoing District Governor, Derek Margerison ‘officiated’, swearing in new Executive Officers, new members and making the presentation to the Emu Plains Club.

enrith Regional Gallery, Home of the Lewers Bequest announces its next major Winter Exhibition Suite, The Housing Question, opening 22 June and running until 25 August 2019. The Housing Question is at the heart of what it means for people to live with security, and in safety. An extensive multi-art form exhibition comprising video, photography, sculpture and installation from artists Helen Grace, Narelle Jubelin and sound artist Sherre DeLys, the exhibition begs the question: what are one’s rights to secure and affordable housing, especially when one is displaced, as hundreds of thousands of people are today? Grace and Jubelin explore these contemporary social and political issues in a major new 27-minute collaborative video, which will be projected onto a large screen, on a loop, in the Main Gallery.

Guest-curated by Julie Ewington, The Housing Question starts with two exemplary modernist homes; Harry and Penelope Seidlers’ house in Sydney’s Killara (1967) and Casa Huarte (1966) in Madrid, Spain by José Antonio Corrales and Ramón Vásquez Molezún. The focus on the two houses leads to considering modernist town planning and mass housing more generally, as well as the role of social housing and urgent issues surrounding access to shelter. The two houses are contemporary statements in modernist architecture, built thousands of kilometres apart in two different nations and political circumstances. Yet despite their dissimilar contexts, all the architects shared globally influential aspirations to assist in the creation of more equitable and widely available housing in their home countries.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 A blue dye (6) 4 No particular place (8) 10 Carry (9) 11 Memos (5) 12 Young ladies (5) 13 A native of Australia (9) 14 Quaffs (7) 16 Retain (4) 19 Probabilities (4) 21 Examine in detail (7) 24 Not easy (9) 25 Plastic (5) 26 Unable to react (5) 27 Collisions (9) 28 Neatness (8) 29 Dwelt (6) DOWN 1 A sunken engraving (8) 2 Thunderous verbal attack (8) 3 Sudden blasts of wind (5) 5 Interconnected nodes or stations (7)

solution 6/6/19

6 Breeziness (9) 7 Have as a logical consequence (6) 8 Resulted (6) 9 Teeth (6) 15 A game with a shuttlecock (9) 17 Long tapering flags (8) 18 Used (8) 20 Mouse sounds (7) 21 Untouched (6) 22 Afloat (6) 23 Abroad (6) 25 Not audio (5)

NEPEAN HISTORY

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

ydney Arthur Cunningham “known as “Sid”, “Doc” and “Black Santa” was born in 1926 at Newtown and grew up in Redfern and La Perouse. He played Black Santa for almost 30 years. In 1974 he helped people devastated by Cyclone Tracy in Darwin and in 1982 he was named ANZAC of the Year. Sid served in the RAAF in WW2 as a General Hand between June 1944 to March 1945. In 1987 NAIDOC honoured him as “Aboriginal of the Year”. Sid was also awarded the Order of Australian Medal in 1989. He was a member of the Yuin Tribe from the North Coast of NSW and is best known for his tireless work in fundraising and filling food orders for needy families throughout Australia and for delivering toys to many disadvantaged Aboriginal children at Christmas time. He worked with the Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs in Central Sydney as a Field Officer and established the Western District Foundation for Aboriginal Affairs in St Marys in 1976. The 1981 newspaper photo shows the year he was battling to meet the demands for genuine poor families who were forced to live in substandard conditions. The inset RAAF photo shows Sid at 19. He died in March 1999 at Balmain Hospital at the age of 72. More than 1,000 mourners attended his funeral at St Marys Cathedral with a number of Aboriginal Community Leaders, including Charles Perkins and Lyall Munro who spoke at the service. A Plaque to his memory is in the footpath at King Street at Newtown. He is buried at the Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park at Matraville. In 1814 Governor Macquarie founded the first school for Aboriginal children called the Native Institution which was located at Parramatta until 1822. It was succeeded by the Native Institution at Blacktown but closed about the 1830s. The establishment of separate Aboriginal Schools in NSW led to the creation of records dealing almost exclusively with the primary education of Indigenous children. Education for all children in NSW became compulsory in 1880 with the proclamation of the Public Instruction Act. Initially the Act supported one public school system. Over time social attitudes, supported by the policies of the Department of Public Instruction, led to the establishment of separate Aboriginal Schools. Early policies supporting segregation permitted Aboriginal children to attend the local school only if they were considered adequately dressed, clean, courteous and well fed. The practice of separating Aboriginal children from the non-Aboriginal local school system was illustrated in 1902 with the ‘exclusion on demand’ policy. The then Minister of Education gave instructions to schools in NSW to remove Aboriginal children on the request of white parents. From 1883–1869 the Aborigines Welfare Board and its predecessor the Aborigines Protection Board, was the main NSW State Government agency responsible for implementing and administering legislation and policies affecting Aboriginal people. The records of the Board are important because they document activities that had a major impact on the lives of Aboriginal people, especially the ‘Stolen Generations’ who were removed from their families and communities. The Board for the Protection of Aborigines was established in June 1883. Comprising six members appointed by the Governor it held weekly meetings at which

Michelle Latham 1300 HEVNLY ( 1300 438 659 ) michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au

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recommendations concerning the State’s Aboriginal population were considered. The Board functioned without any statutory power until the Aborigines Protection Act 1909 when the board was enlarged with the principal expenditure being the distribution of rations, clothing and huts for accommodation. The Aborigines Protection Amending Act 1915 gave the Board the power to assume control and custody of Aboriginal children if it believed this action to be in the moral or physical interest of the child, and to remove the child to “such care and control as it thinks best”. The Board was reconstituted again under the Aborigines Protection (Amendment) Act of 1940, and its name changed to the Aborigines Welfare Board. The Board held its final meeting on 29 April 1969 and was replaced by the Aborigines Welfare Directorate, Department of Child Welfare and Social Welfare (later the Aborigines Services Branch, Youth and Community Services). Another Aboriginal advocate was Henry “Harry” Aylwin Barrenger who was born in May 1900 at Prahran in Melbourne. Harry was educated at Hawksburn State School in 1915. He joined the Postmaster-General’s Department as a messenger and two years later he was appointed clerk in the Department of Home and Territories. In February 1924 at All Saints Church in St Kilda, he married Lily Adelaide Danson. They moved to Canberra in 1927 with the first relocated Federal public servants and their families. Advancing steadily within the Department of the Interior, Harry was involved in the administration of the Northern Territory and made frequent visits there. His responsibilities included Aboriginal welfare policy and he served as secretary to the initial conference of Commonwealth and State Aboriginal authorities that was held in Canberra in April 1937. In 1938 he became an associate member of the Commonwealth Institute of Accountants. As first assistant-secretary from 1948, he oversaw the substantial expansion occasioned by the transfer of most of the remaining government departments to Canberra and acted as secretary of the department. On one such occasion in January 1949, there was controversy over the enforced removal to Adelaide and Alice Springs of Aboriginal children who had been evacuated to Penrith during World War 2, where he dismissed protests against the move, arguing that the children had to obey the orders of their legal guardian which was the Northern Territory Director of Native Affairs. In 1954 Harry became a nominated member of the ACT Advisory Council. Aboriginal barkpainters at the Maningrida settlement in the Northern Territory benefited from his efforts to establish a forest reserve to provide a future source of bark. Respected for his hard work and integrity, Harry was never ruffled and had an ‘unfailing sense of humour’. He related well to others and was noted for his sympathy and compassion. He was accessible and supportive of his staff and he improved morale in his department. Harry received an O.B.E in 1964 and retired from the public service and the advisory council in 1965. He died in August 1976 at the Woden Valley Hospital and was buried in Canberra cemetery.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Indigenous Affairs

Sources: Aboriginal Welfare, Initial Conference of Commonwealth and State Aboriginal Authorities, Sydney Morning Herald, Australian (Canberra edition), Canberra Times, Canberra Courier, ACT Advisory Council minutes, National Library of Australia, Australian Dictionary of Biography, NSW State Archives, J.J. Fletcher-A History of Aboriginal School Education in NSW, Monument Australia Website, Ancestry, BDM website, Family Search Website, National Archives Service Records, The Koori Mail 1999,

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Ask the Expert - Post-Election Mood Moves Market Sharon Mudiman Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region

ince the somewhat surprising results of the Federal election, we have had a resurgence of buyer enquiries in the market. More vocal than in the previous 8 months, buyers are now increasing their activity and are ready to make their move. Traditionally, winter weather quiets the market, but with the Morrison government shelving reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax, the market is once again heating up. Additionally,

lowering interest rates and leveling property prices make this new investment season more attractive to buyers than it has been for some time. So how does this translate to potential sellers? We always remind vendors who are considering a mid-year sale to keep in mind the simple rule of supply and demand. It is a common misconception that a spring sale, when your garden is looking its most beautiful, is the prime time to sell your home. There are some properties where this does

hold true, however, most homes can be sold yearround. This means that a winter sale, when there is lower housing supply, may increase demand from active buyers and create competition for your property. As a result, there is a greater probability of driving your property price upward. Closer to home, it is well worth noting the major road works underway in and around Penrith. There is no denying that Sydney’s second airport is making a mark on our city. This begs the question, what impact will this have on our housing market? Have no doubt, savvy buyers will be aware of the future growth and will be eyeing our burgeoning market. Investment in growth corridors is a key component to successful property purchases and should bode well for vendors now and in the near future. With so much to consider, we invite you to contact one of our local area experts for free advice. But given the trifecta of low housing supply, increase in buyer interest, and infrastructure works in and around our area, we believe this is a winning time for a winter sale.

Penrith | Glenmore Park www.bespokerg.com.au 02 4737 9977

Confidence increasing - Back to normal business With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

uring most federal elections, people tend not to make large financial commitments like buying properties to live in or as investments. Now that we have no change to the federal leadership, it’s now back to business for a lot of people and, also me as a local mortgage broker. All of a sudden, offers that are made by buyers are being accepted by the vendors of properties. There has been some pent-up demand recently with falling prices allowing buyers to be very selective and not in any hurry. My office is seeing a client committing to a purchase every day since the election. Auction clearance rates in Sydney continue to rise slightly confirming the increasing confidence. Clearance rates have now broken above the 60 percent mark for the first time in 12 months according to Core Logic.

The interest rates used by lenders to calculate borrowing capacity may also be reduced. This will increase how much people can borrow to also help stimulate demand. With the actual interest rates also falling (see below), we could now see the bottom of the price cycle in our local area. It is impossible to say this with any certainty as it’s only a short time since the election, but underlying demand and local employment seem to be okay. Home Loan Interest Rates On top of the boost in confidence, interest rates have been coming down slightly. Some lenders have recently reduced their fixed interest rates with a few lenders also decreasing their variable rates as well. These cuts are due to the lower borrowing costs that the lenders have had to pay to source funds. Almost all economists and the market predicted that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) would reduce the official cash rate by 0.25 percent in June and may make further reductions of up to 0.50 percent this year. My advice would be to keep your home

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

loans on a variable interest rate unless you take advantage of some great fixed rates on offer by some lenders. Owner occupiers continue to get the lowest variable rates. Investors will find good value in some 2 or 3 year fixed rates still as the variable rates that they pay are a lot higher, especially for those only paying interest only loans. Owner occupiers can get fixed rates under 3.6 percent and investors can get intertest only fixed loans of 3.64 percent at the moment. Some lenders are offering great interest rates and cash bonuses of up to $3,500 if you switch your home loan. If you are paying over 4 percent on your home loan, you should be contacting me as soon as possible to see how we can probably save you many thousands of dollars per year, depending on the size of your home loan/s. 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 June 2019 Issue 254

SPORT

PVSF Senior Sport Star Award By CONNER LOWE

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Chloe Pelle from Cranebrook the Senior Sport Star Award for her amazing skills and development in Baton Twirling. Chloe competes for the Sutherland Shire Twirling Academy and is a part of the Western Sydney Academy of Sports ‘Lone Star’ program. She has been involved with the Twirling since 2008 and has become one of the best in Australia. Chloe currently holds four National Titles and was named the Australian Baton Champion of Champions winner in 2018. Chloe spoke of how happy she was to be recognised for her achievements in Baton Twirling and to have won the award from PVSF. “I felt privileged to even be nominated but I’m very honoured to be successful and to have won it,” she said. “As Baton Twirling is not a recognised sport in Australia many people don’t see the determination and training that goes into being able to do the sport so I’m very thankful that I was nominated.” Chloe has competed internationally twice. In 2012 she attended Twirl Mania coming in at eighth place and more recently, in 2017 Chloe competed at the Pan Pacific Cup placing first in her team event. In 2017 she successfully made the Australian team to compete in Croatia. Chloe also spoke about her greatest achievements for Baton Twirling domestically and internationally thus far. “Over these many years I have competed and

won numerous of state and national titles as both individual and team member,” she said. “I have also competed internationally twice; both being in the United States. In 2012 at ‘Disney World - Florida USA Twirl Mania’, finishing with two first places and eighth overall and 2017 ‘Pan Pacific Cup’ placing 1st in my team event. “Recently I was successful in being selected in the 2019 Australian squad; At the international cup trials and National Championship, which was held in Rockhampton QLD I placed 1st in for all my

International Cup trial events.” Recently Chloe was selected for the 2019 Australian Squad and will be competing at the World Baton Twirling Federation International Cup taking place in Limoges, France this August. She was selected for the Australian squad after placing first in all her events at the International Cup trials and National Championships held in Australia. Chloe loves how unique Baton Twirling is compared to every other sport and spoke about her goals for the future. “Baton Twirling is a unique and artistic sport which is different to anything else but it’s also very competitive and fun,” she said. “As one of my big goals was originally to make the Australia team, as I have been successful in that my current plan is and goal is to go to France being mentally and physically prepared and I am hoping to finish in the top 10 of my section. After this competition we will see where things go.” We would like to congratulate Chloe on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Twirling for the future.

Penrith’s First Grade Captain wins award from PVSF wickets which stood for 45 years set back in 1974/75. Ryan spoke of what he hopes to achieve with Penrith Cricket Club in the future and to give back as much to the club as he can. “I would like to captain First Grade for as long as my body allows me to, then I would like to play as a senior player in the lower grades and put back into the club that has given me so much,” he said. We would like to congratulate Ryan on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue his extremely successful career at Penrith Cricket Club.

By CONNER LOWE

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Ryan Smith from Springwood the Senior Sport Star Award for his amazing achievements and skill in Cricket. Ryan is the First Grade Captain of Penrith Cricket Club. Ryan has played all his cricket for the Penrith Club starting his grade career in 2006 and has played most of his career in First Grade. Over the course of his career he has won many of the club’s major awards including Bowler of the Year 2006/07 and 2016/17, Rookie of the Year 2006/07, All Rounder of the Year 2012/13, Player of the year 2012/13 and Club Person of the Year 2009/10. Ryan was extremely proud to receive the award representing the Penrith Cricket Club and to win it with so many great sports people in Western Sydney. “I am extremely proud to be nominated for the award. Being a local sportsperson for many years playing cricket. I have thoroughly enjoyed and will continue to enjoy captaining at Penrith,” he said. “I was a bit surprised to have received this award, I didn’t even realise I would be in the running as there are so many great sports people

out there doing so well in their sports.” Ryan has passed every significant bowling milestone during his career at Penrith including 331 First Grade wickets and 404 overall Grade wickets which are considered the bowling benchmarks. Ryan spoke of his greatest achievement for Penrith Cricket Club and the culture that drives the team to win every week. “My greatest achievement by far is winning the first Belvedere Cup in 36 years for Penrith Cricket Club in my first year as captain,” he said. “The comradery within the team,

this year more so the culture in the team was amazing and just makes everyone’s drive to win so much stronger and I love being a part of that.” Last season Ryan played in 22 matches across the season and took a staggering 62 wickets for the whole season. He was the leading wicket taker for the fast bowlers across the entire Sydney Grade Competition and will be awarded the Penrith Cricket Clubs bowler of the year award. The tally of 62 wickets for the season in First Grade set a new club record breaking the previous record of 61

SPORT By CONNER LOWE

ndoor Skydiving Australia Group (ISAG), Australia’s largest indoor skydiving group, has announced the dates for the 2019 Australian Open Indoor Skydiving Championships. The event is held in Penrith and this year will celebrate its 5th anniversary. This year’s championship will be held across two huge days; Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th August; with over 300 of the world’s best in the sport expected to compete. Cheryl Dawson, National Marketing Manager for ISAG spoke about the growing popularity of the sport every year. “We have been holding these championships in Sydney for the last five years and the popularity within the skydiving community globally is growing,” she said. “Each year we are extending the competition length, and adding new elements to the event so that we can accommodate the amount of registrations we receive!” The first championships were held in 2015 with around 147 registered competitors. Over the last 5 years almost 600 of the world’s best have competed to battle it out for the coveted Australian titles. “Popularity for our event grew fast not only here in Australia but worldwide. We have people from Singapore or France travel to our facility in Sydney to compete against our Australian flyers. We have some amazing local talent that will be hard to beat,” Cheryl said. One such talent is 13-year-old Amy Watson who earlier this year became the youngest ever indoor

skydiving champion taking gold for Australia in the Junior Freestyle competition at the 3rd FAI Indoor Skydiving World Championships in France. “We have been supporting Amy’s career in professional indoor skydiving since she first stepped into the tunnel back in 2013. We are incredibly proud of Amy, and all our talented sponsored athletes, and can’t wait to see them all compete at the Australian Open,” Cheryl said. The Australian Open Indoor Skydiving Championships will be held at Amy’s home ground training facility, iFLY Indoor Skydiving Penrith, recognised not only as Australia’s largest indoor skydiving facility, but also the biggest in the southern hemisphere. Cheryl spoke about the talent that is coming out of Australia and the uniqueness of athletes in indoor skydiving. “Australia is rapidly becoming a leader in

producing some of the world’s greatest in the sport of indoor skydiving,” she said. “It is one of the most accessible and all-inclusive sports and we are incredibly proud of the talent that our facilities across Australia have been producing.” “Indoor skydiving is a sport that can be enjoyed by anybody, any age, all inclusive” “It doesn’t matter if you are in a wheelchair, have hearing loss, low vision, are 3-years-old or 103. When you are indoor skydiving everyone is the same. We invite people of all abilities to enter and be part of our championships and have your chance to compete for Australia!” All the Australian competitors who win a medal in the 2019 championships will qualify to participate in the 4th FAI Indoor Skydiving World Cup in Charleroi (Belgium) in April 2020. “Without doubt this is the biggest indoor skydiving event to ever happen in Australia. We will have some of the world’s greatest indoor skydivers competing. We want everyone to be part of it,” Cheryl said. The public will be invited to attend free of charge, and iFLY Indoor Skydive will also broadcast a live Facebook Feed expected to be viewed by almost one million viewers. The 2019 Australian Open Indoor Skydiving Championships will be held on Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th August. For more information on the event and to register as a contender please head to https://downunder.iflyworld.com/ australianchampionships

Mt Druitt Town impressive in win over Rockdale City By CONNER LOWE

t Druitt T o w n Rangers have improved significantly in the second half of the NPL NSW Men’s season and impressed in a 2-0 win over Rockdale City Suns at Popondetta Park on Saturday night. The result was the Rangers second win in as many games with their performance sure to put a smile on coach Aidan Desmond’s face. Mt Druitt had the first decent effort of the match in the 4th minute when inform attacker Fabricio Fernandez found space on the edge of the area only to fire inches over the crossbar. The Uruguayan attacker was to find the back of the net on his second attempt. Alameddine with some great play on the right squared the ball to Fernandez who dribbled past the two Rockdale centre backs and slotted the ball into the bottom right to make it 1-0 in the 12th minute. Mt Druitt continued to dominate the opening stanza and almost doubled their lead again through Fernandez who hit the crossbar after connecting from a Jake Mammone cross, with Roberts unable to score from the following rebound.

Photo by Dan Ullman

Alec Urosevski found himself oneon-one with the Mt Druitt keeper after stealing the ball from the Rangers defence, however his chipped effort was well saved after Carlos Saliadarre made himself big coming out and closing down the Suns attacker.

In the 34th minute a dangerous cross from the left by Mick Neill deserved to have someone on the end of it, but there was no one home for Rockdale and the chance went begging. Rangers doubled their lead just before the end of the first half thanks

to Roberts who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right. It was Mirijan Pavlovic, the former Marconi Stallions player, who created doubt in the minds of the defenders but had his shot blocked, but then the ball fell to Roberts who on the turn managed to find the bottom corner of the net. The second half almost saw Rangers add a third when Alameddine found himself with a great opportunity however was unable to make great contact with his shot as it rolled to the Rockdale keeper. Mt Druitt almost scored an own goal through Joshua Gould when he volleyed a Rockdale City cross in the 53rd minute onto his own goalpost for what would have been a classic own goal. A corner from Fernandez in the 73rd minute went straight onto the crossbar and then a delightful counter-attack shortly afterwards saw Esposito charge from inside his own half and deliver a great ball to Fernandez who eventually hit the side netting. The game was well closed out by Mt Druitt Rangers with the game finishing 2-0 in favour of the home team. The inform Mt Druitt Rangers will look forward to their match against Sydney FC at Lambert Park on Saturday 22nd June, kick-off 7pm.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Penrith’s iFLY to host world’s biggest Indoor Skydiving Championships

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

SPORT

Carruthers enjoys team win at North vs South Cup By Noel Rowsell

oby Carruthers (Leonay GC) was one of twenty-four junior golfers chosen from NSW and the ACT to compete in the annual Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Foundation ‘North vs South Cup’ at Riverside Oaks GC from 24-26th May. Carruthers and Miguel Villa (Stonecutters Ridge GC) were both chosen in the North team, which would ultimately take out the event by 14 points to 10. Carruthers partnered Zachary Camilleri (Shelley Beach GC) in the Foursomes on Friday and the duo fell 4 & 2 to Ethan Harvey (Kiama GC) and Michael Nguyen (Gungahlin Lakes, ACT). The North duo had better luck in the Fourball on Saturday, defeating Harvey and Max Jenkins (Wagga Wagga GC) 4 & 3. Carruthers faced Harvey again in the Singles on Sunday, finishing 2-down after fighting back strongly from an early deficit, before losing the final two holes. Wil Arnold (Penrith GC) has won a coveted spot in the NSW Open, which will be held at Twin Creeks GC in November. Arnold claimed his spot in the Open following a one-shot win in the Forbes Open on Sunday 26th May. Playing in one of the first groups on the day, Arnold shot a 2-under par score of 70, then had to endure

Coby Carruthers (Leonay GC) at Riverside Oaks for the JNJG Foundation North vs South Cup. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

a nail-biting four-hour wait to see if his score was going to hold up for the event. Arnold ultimately finished one shot ahead of Blade Gadd (Concord GC) and Reid Brown (Pymble GC), with Thomas Heaton (The Australian) and local brothers John and Steve Betland (Forbes GC) all tied for fourth at even par 72. One hundred and fifty-seven golfers took on the Forbes course on Sunday, a near record field for the popular event. Eight junior golfers from the Western Sydney Region competed in the 2019 Macarthur Junior Masters

over 9th-10th June at Camden and Campbelltown GC’s. Coby Carruthers (Leonay GC) led the 14/15 Yrs Age Group in Nett Scores after Day One but was unable to hold off the fast-finishing Brij Ingrey (Campbelltown GC), who shot a scorching 4-under par round (-6 nett) on Day Two to overtake Carruthers for the Age title. Best of the 8 local players in overall scratch score rankings were Cameron Rios-Ceballos (Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club) T18th at +8, Carruthers (Leonay GC) T29th at +12 and Harry Wilde (Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club) T40th at +16.

12/13 Years: Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 10th Scr, T6th Nett; Blake Hodges (Dunheved GC) 20th Scr, T23rd Nett. 14/15 Years: Coby Carruthers (Leonay GC) 12th Scr, 2nd Nett; Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) T21st Scr, T24th Nett; Ryan Cadle (Stonecutters Ridge GC) T35th Scr, T44th Nett. 16+ Yrs: Cameron Rios-Ceballos (Stonecutters Ridge GC) T11th Scr, T12th Nett; Harry Wilde (Stonecutters Ridge GC) T20th Scr, T24th Nett; Miguel Villa (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 35th Scr, T30th Nett.

Halle Savage continuing a cricket dynasty By Noel Rowsell

welve-year old Halle Savage (Leonay) is a girl blessed with an abundance of sporting talent, playing a wide variety of different sports yet playing them all at an exceptionally high level. Halle recently combined with tenyear old brother Taj in the Under 12 Division 2 Cricket Grand Final, teammates in the winning Emu Plains team. Halle is undoubtedly blessed with cricketing talent inherited from father Brett (highest single-game run-scorer for Emu Plains 1st Grade and also a Grade Cricketer with Penrith) and grandfather Peter (fastest player to reach 400 wickets for Penrith 1st grade). The talented youngster trains under local cricket star Kevin Geyer and plays representative cricket for Penrith in both the Under 12’s and the Under 13 Mollie Dive Competition. Halle has also just been selected for the Cricket NSW Academy for the Under 13 Girls Metropolitan West Team. Geyer said “I’ve been coaching Halle

Halle Savage pictured with younger brother Taj after winning their cricket grand final and Halle in action at Touch Football. Action photo provided by Claire Savage.

for about 5 sessions so far, primarily batting at this stage.” “When she first started, she hit the ball quite well but had deficiencies in her technique.” “Even after 5 sessions I’ve seen huge improvement.” Geyer said “She (Halle) works extremely hard each session, listening and putting into practise changes which

I encourage.” “She is very resilient in the sessions, making mistakes at first with the changes but striving to perfect the encouraged technique.” “I see a real opportunity for her to climb through the ranks, if that’s the path she chooses.....she’s also extremely capable in other sports.”

“Women’s cricket is really taking off at the moment and provided she (Halle) continues with the same work ethic, who knows what level she can reach” said Geyer. The list of achievements astonishingly continues in other sports for Halle, who plays representative netball for Penrith and was recently selected into the CIS netball team to compete in Orange at the State School’s Competition. In addition, Halle plays representative Touch Football for Penrith and recently competed in the State Cup tournament in Wagga. Following that tournament, Halle was selected into the Sydney Metropolitan Touch Football Team, which will also compete in Orange. To round out her rapidly growing list of achievements, Halle was also Age Champion for school athletics at Penrith Anglican College (PAC). After winning the PAC cross country event in April, Halle went on to take out the NASSA (New Anglican Schools Sports Association) Primary School Cross Country event at Eastern Creek this month.

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

By STEWART MOSES

@TheRiffMarn

n injury to Newcastle K n i g h t s halfback, Mitchell Pearce has paved the way for Penrith five-eighth James Maloney to return to the NSW team for Game Two of the 2019 State of Origin series to be played at Optus Stadium in Perth this Sunday, as the Blues look to keep their title defence alive. Having been replaced by Souths’ Cody Walker for Game One in the midst of Penrith’s poor start to the season, a string of match-winning performances by Maloney over the past month, capped by his matchwinning field goal in Penrith’s win over South Sydney, coupled with Walker’s indifferent Origin debut and subsequent recent form, has seen the 2018 Origin-winning five-eighth, who turned 33 last Saturday, earn selection instead. Maloney’s selection came after Pearce, was originally thought to have been the preferred choice to partner Nathan Cleary in the halves, was ruled out through injury on Sunday morning. Had Pearce who been fit to play, there were suggestions that Cleary would have been moved to five-eighth. But before learning of the injury to Pearce and his subsequent selection, Maloney said that Pearce’s inclusion would have worked well for New South Wales including Cleary, but added he was excited by the prospect of being back in the Origin arena. “There was a lot of talk that “Pearcey” might be there lately and he has been playing really good football,” Maloney said to Nepean News shortly after the win over Souths. “He is a good mate and I would have been stoked to have seen him make it. “I think Mitchell would have been good for Nath, having a senior guy who has done so much in the game, will help Nath, by taking a bit of pressure off him.

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

Back in Blue: James Maloney

41 41

Birthday boy James Maloney ices another win for the Panthers with this successful field goal attempt. Credit: NRL Photos.

“Whatever happens, happens. But if I get the call I will be stoked.” While question marks hovered over Maloney’s early season form coupled with ongoing speculation over his future with the club, the veteran playmaker himself says he never thought he was playing badly despite Penrith’s tough start to the season. “I never thought my form was that bad to be honest,” Maloney declared. “I just thought we were struggling as a side and I wasn’t getting things done that we needed to be. “But I didn’t think I was in horrible touch by any stretch either. “At the moment we are playing a lot more positive footy and I think there are a lot of guys out there who are helping me do what I am doing out there.” The last two weeks, Maloney has kicked a field goal in wins over premiership heavy weights Sydney Roosters and South Sydney.

But the field goal against Souths with less than five minutes remaining, which ensured Penrith’s unbeaten run would stretch to four games, was according to Maloney, meant to be taken a play earlier given that Kikau’s subsequent run out to the edges meant the shot had to be taken on an angle rather than from in front. “It wasn’t (ideal) but it wasn’t that bad. A quick enough play the ball from Kiks (Kikau) gave me enough time, which was the main thing,” Maloney replied. “I was probably going to take the kick the one play before but a few guys got in the way.” Despite notching up four wins in succession, Penrith’s attacking potential has continued to come under some scrutiny, especially when attacking inside the opposition’s 20 metre zone, having yet to score 20 or more points since their Round 6 20-24 loss away to Cronulla.

But Maloney says while there is plenty of improvement in the team, he isn’t too concerned with their attack either. “There’s still plenty of improvement in us and we can get a lot better but it is nice that we are getting some momentum now we have chalked up another win,” Maloney said. “I think (our attack) is not too bad. No matter who you play, it’s the hardest spot (inside the 20) on the field to score in. “Everyone’s goal line defences are really good and all teams spend a lot of time working on that. “I thought (against Souths) we showed a lot of patience down there in some greasy conditions. “Souths are a good side, they aren’t near the top of the ladder for no reason. “We’ve still got a fair bit to go and we need to string a lot more wins together, but we are heading in the right direction.”

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PENRITH PANTHERS

Repeat Sets with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

WINNING STREAK CONTINUES FOR CLEARY’S YOUNG GUNS The Panthers might remain in 14th position, but they are now just one win outside the top eight in what is fast shaping up as one of the most evenly contested NRL premierships in seasons, following wins over premiership candidates, Sydney Roosters and South Sydney. The wins might be tainted by the fact their opponents were missing significant players on both occasions. But the Panthers have hardly been at full strength in those wins either, especially in the outside backs with Dean Whare and Waqa Blake still sidelined with injury and doing the job in their place is a threegame NRL rookie in Brent Naden and a backrower in Isaah Yeo. Add to the recent roster upheavals which has seen Dallin Watene-Zelezniak move to Canterbury and Tim Grant terminate his contract due to a seasonending injury and the Panthers have done well to notch up four wins in succession against four current top eight teams in Parramatta, Manly, Sydney Roosters and now South Sydney. The footy continues to be anything but flash and is largely built around an improved defensive structure. But there is a real sense that with games coming up after this weekend’s representative round against the Warriors and Titans, that the Panthers (6-8) could force their way into the top eight sooner rather than later despite their continued poor for and against, which accounts for their lowly 14th position on the ladder. It was a see-sawing affair against South Sydney last Saturday. Penrith trailed early before scoring 14 unanswered points to lead by 8 mid-way through the second half, only to relinquish the lead through poor handling that resulted in two back-to-back converted tries. But the Panthers with some newfound confidence still found a way to level the scores through Brian To’o before Maloney’s field goal five minutes from time, sealed another win, for which Panthers Ivan Cleary after game, whilst grateful for the two competition points added that his team would need to play better than that. “Tonight it was good to get the win but there is so much more in us and that is the good thing,” Cleary said post-game. “Things have changed for sure. We’ve started to play as a team. That’s been the big difference. “It definitely gives you confidence (beating

team again. “It’s pretty congested. I think this time last year the eight was starting to work itself out whereas this year the top teams are doing really well and there’s just a mass of teams,” Cleary declared. “I’ve always said if you can win a bunch of games in a row in the NRL in pretty much any season your whole year can change. “We’re obviously in a bit of a bubble so we’ve just got to keep doing what got us here in the first place and I actually think there’s more in our team.” “There’s still a way to go but we looked different tonight. There was a different intensity about us. “It’s all come from teamwork. It’s all come from guys willing to play for the guy next to them.”

A sign of times as rookies Brent Naden (top) and Brian To’o score two of Penrith’s three tries against Souths. Credit: NRL Photos.

Sydney Roosters and Souths last two weeks). We had next to none a few weeks ago. “I thought we could have won by more last week but tonight we were nowhere near our best, but still found a way to win, which is a good quality. “Our defence prior to the last four weeks has been very average but it has become pretty strong. “We are averaging around 12 points a game the last four weeks so if you can do that you will win some games.” The previous Sunday afternoon, in front of Penrith’s biggest home crowd of the season to date, (16,833) the resurgent Panthers condemned a Roosters side missing Latrell Mitchell, Luke Keary, Jared Wearea-Hargreaves, Jake Friend and Brett Morris, to their third successive loss for the first time since 2016, with a 19-10 win at Panthers Stadium. Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said after the game he wasn’t taking too much notice of what is beginning to look like a rapidly congesting table before adding his side is starting to play like a

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Penrith remains in top spot in the Canterbury Cup, despite an indifferent fortnight. A big 32-0 win over North Sydney last Sunday week was followed up b a surprise 36-16 loss to South Sydney at ANZ Stadium last Saturday night. After this weekend’s representative round bye, the Panthers will travel to WIN Stadium the following Saturday, where they will take on St GeorgeIllawarra. Penrith have slumped to fourth position in Jersey Flegg after back-to-back losses against South Sydney (22-23) and Sydney Roosters (1424). The Panthers now face consecutive Saturday road trips away to tenth-placed Wests Tigers (this Saturday at Campbelltown Stadium) and seventh-placed St George-Illawarra over the coming fortnight. There is no Team List Tuesday this week, as all NRL clubs (except any players picked to play for a representative team), enjoy this weekend off. Normal hostilities resume the following Sunday when Ivan Cleary heads back to where it all started for him as an NRL coach, when Penrith takes on the NZ Warriors. Panthers coach, Ivan Cleary is hopeful that Dean Whare will return for the clash. Make your support count and show your #PantherPride at the game.

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

MALONEY, CLEARY HEADLINE PANTHERS’ REP WEEKEND SELECTIONS NSW have gone back to the future, reuniting 2018 series-winning halves Nathan Cleary and James Maloney after the latter earned a recall in the wake of an injury to mooted preferred candidate Mitchell Pearce and the omission of Game One five-eighth, Cody Walker. But the halves aren’t the only ones to have earned representative selection honours. James Fisher-Harris has been named in the Kiwi squad to take on Tonga, which could feature Panthers’ team-mate, Sione Katoa subject to the final 17 being picked on Tuesday. Viliame Kikau and Ratu Nanovo have been named in a Fijian squad that is set to take on Lebanon this Saturday night at Leichhardt Oval, that won’t feature Josh Mansour (who turned 29 on Monday), with the winger having been ruled out with injury, preventing a first international appearance for the Cedars since 2009. Jarome Luai rounds out Penrith’s representation this weekend, having been named in the Samoan squad that will face PNG, also this Saturday at Leichhardt Oval. One name that wouldn’t have looked out of place in the NSW Blues is skipper James Tamou. Despite the injuries to props David Klemmer and Payne Haas, Tamou was overlooked despite yet another strong performance that coach Ivan Cleary said after the Souths win was typical of the forward’s efforts thus far in 2019. “Jimmy (Tamou) has been really good all year” Cleary declared. “He has led from the front, plays big minutes and he will never let you down, Jimmy.” Plenty of movement in the Panthers’ top 30 roster and development squad over the past fortnight. The Dallin Watene-Zelezniak standoff finally reached its conclusion with the New Zealand skipper opting in somewhat of a surprise move, to accept an 18-month deal to play with the Bulldogs, spurning interest from the Cowboys, Tigers and Eels in the process. Watene-Zelezniak leaves the Panthers, having played 106 NRL games for the club, scoring 41 tries since making his NRL debut under current coach, Ivan Cleary in 2014. Watene-Zelezniak’s departure has heightened speculation that former Panther, Tyrone Peachey could be heading back to the club before June 30, despite having signed a long-term deal to play on the Gold Coast. Comments from Titans football manager, Mal Meninga have certainly confirmed Penrith’s interest in the utility player but it remains to be seen whether a deal can be finalised before the June 30 cut-off. “We had a chat about him moving back [to Penrith] through the week,” Meninga said. “Penrith are keen on him. He and the wife are struggling a bit on the coast without the family support, so we discussed all the possibilities. “He’s torn between fulfilling his obligations here. He likes the challenge and sees a future here, but the prospect of him and his family going home is very real as well. “I just listened to him. He is up in the air…. (but)

James Maloney leads a cast of Panthers set to feature on the representative scene, this weekend. Credit: NRL Photos.

there’s only been the one conversation.” And following on from a season-ending pec injury suffered against Manly, popular prop forward Tim Grant has terminated the remainder of his 2019 contract with Penrith, in a selfless move which has allowed emerging hooker, Mitch Kenny to be elevated into the top 30 roster. Grant’s NRL career spans back to 2007 and has played 196 NRL games in total, including 129 for the Panthers and also represented NSW, NSW City and the NRL All Stars. Brent Naden’s successful NRL debut has seen the club promote the second-tier recruit into its development squad for the remainder of the season, meaning that after June 30, the club will no longer need to seek NRL exemption for the centre to play in the top grade. Meanwhile there has been plenty of speculation that the Panthers may have to move on another high-profile player given the recent upgrades made to elevate a number of players into the top 30 squad. Jack Hetherington, Reagan Campbell-Gillard and particularly Waqa Blake have been mooted as possible pre-June 30 departures, with Parramatta said to be interested in the latter. I keep hearing that between 6-8 top 30 / big-name players won’t be back in 2020, as the club looks to continue its relentless push to promote from within. As it stands Sione Katoa, Tyrell Fuimaono, Frank Winterstein, Hame Sele, Jed Cartwright, Nick LuiToso, Paea Pua and Sam McKendry are the top 30 / key players coming off contract at season’s end. Speaking of Tyrell Fuimaono and the Panthers

fringe first grade forward did not play in any grade last weekend after being sentenced to a good behaviour bond last week, for hindering police after a night out in Sydney back in October 2018. The club issued a statement following the court outcome saying “the matter is currently being assessed by the NRL Integrity Unit with the full assistance of Panthers. The club will be making no further comment until the NRL Integrity Unit has completed its assessment.” Tyrone May returned to court on Monday only to have the matter adjourned to June 24 by Magistrate Carl Milovanovich, to allow May’s lawyers a week to go through the brief of evidence. May will remain sidelined under the NRL’s “no fault” policy until the matter has reached its’ conclusion in court. A real shame that one of Penrith’s development players to watch for in the near future, Shawn Blore was recently ruled out for the season with an ACL knee injury. Meanwhile don’t be surprised if another development player, Spencer Leniu, gets his chance in the top grade post June 30, with the young prop earning plenty of rave reviews with his Canterbury Cup performances. Make sure you tune into “The Hit Up”, for all things NRL especially the Panthers, featuring Nicholas Kutnjak, Darren De Kretser and myself on Hawkesbury Radio 89.9FM between 7-8am each and every Saturday. #PantherPride

Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

GOLDEN POINTS

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Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Coach’s Corner A

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

State of Origin Game 2 Preview

t 6:27pm on Sunday night the NSW Blues announced the 17 players to take on the QLD Maroons in Perth to try and level the 2019 State of Origin Series 1-1. At the time when 7 changes were read I was shocked, disappointed, frustrated and had a sense of deja vu. We have seen this story before... we lose the first game, panic and change our team only to see the Maroons rubbing their hands together as we self combust. Of these changes three were forced in Klemmer, Haas and Cotric with injuries. However Morris, Mitchell, Walker and Crighton were dropped. Notably Latrell Mitchell... there is more to this story as he is a superstar but his performance at Suncorp was underwhelming as was his only club showing against the Bulldogs. He is 21 years old and will learn a hard lesson, my concern would be how this impacts his confidence moving forward. Cody Walker has also been hard done by in my opinion, but I understand wanting to give Nathan Cleary a familiar partner in the halves. Angus Crighton and Josh Morris are players I would not have selected for Game 1, but who probably performed above my expectations.

New faces in Tom Trbojevic who played in last years series, Blake Ferguson who has not been seen since his infamous drinking session prior to the deciding Origin game in 2017 with Josh Dugan, James Maloney to partner Nathan Cleary as was the winning combination last year, Daniel Saifiti who has been in solid form recently for the Knights but this is a huge step up in class, Dale Finnucane who is one of the most underrated middle forwards in the game and Wade Graham who has always performed well at this level but who is only two games back from a very serious knee injury. Brad Fittler has stated these are players he knows will just get in and get it done by finding a way. I hope he is right as I would not have rung the changes to this extent considering we lost the first game due to an intercept and some mismanagement of the interchange from the Blues coaching staff. Accountability should be owned across the board for the loss at Suncorp Stadium. But with recent criticism Fittler has maintained he and the Blues coaching staff “nailed” the interchanges. I disagree, and it hurt our chances of winning game one. Between Brad Fittler, Greg Alexander and Danny

Buderus there is huge levels of game knowledge and Origin experience but there is minimal NRL coaching experience. I think they need a modern, day to day NRL assistant coach on staff to manage the minor details such as a clear interchange plan which is adaptable to various scenarios and potential injuries. Right... how do we win game two you ask? Simple. Make Damien Cook and James Tedesco the focal point of our attack. To do this we need our middle forwards creating quick play the balls on a consistent basis, we also need even share of possession and to keep our discipline which all failed us during the second half of game one as we let an 8-0 halftime lead slip away. The Queenslanders only made forced changes through injury, they look settled in the key positions but I do feel they have weaknesses to exploit in the middle and also their bench. DCE, Hunt, Munster and Ponga will have no room to work unless its created in the middle so lets hope our engine room gets us to ANZ Stadium for a decider in just over three weeks time. But I sense the Blues will not have it all their own way in Perth, but hopefully they can get the result!

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PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Seismic shift in our lineup - will it pay off?

 The boys are back together

rom the moment the NSW state of origin team was read out last Sunday night there hasn’t been a moment that it hasn’t been discussed or dissected. EVERYONE has had an opinion. And I mean everybody! My 12 year old daughter even bought into the pandemonium and asked what every Blues supporter was thinking “where’s Latrell Mitchell dad?” Of course this is the biggest shock coach Fittler delivered for game 2 in Perth this Sunday night. But I’ll get back to that. Other selection ‘water cooler’ convos have centered around who isn’t in the team rather than who is. I get that. I feel for Josh Morris and Cody Walker, but am over the moon for Jimmy Maloney, Dale Finucane and Wade Graham. Gone from game 1 are Latrell, Crichton, Morris, and Walker, all dropped. Klemmer, Haas, and Cotric succumbed to injury. In for the above 7 players are Blake Ferguson, Tom Trbojevic, James Maloney, Daniel Saifiti, Dale Finucane, Tariq Sims, and Wade Graham. Ballsy move by Freddy but one he must totally be at ease with, hence his decisions. But if I have to find both pros and cons in this team then I will.

 Latrell dropped for game

Pros: it’s a big team full of big mobile units. The halves know each other and were the halves in last year’s winning series. The bench is awesome. Finucane, Sims, Murray and Graham provide impetuous of the pine. Cons: No Latrell. Massive call leaving the world’s best centre out of this team but the distractions that are obviously following Latrell were his downfall. No recognised centres. Trbojevic (fullback) and Wighton (5/8th) aren’t centres. No utility on the bench. What happens if a back is injured? Thank God these aren’t questions I have to answer. I fully back Freddy in his selections and know for sure he’s picked his team to win game 2, nothing else! The outcry of emotion is the epitome of origin. It’s the toughest, most uncompromising rugby league there is and it isn’t for the faint hearted. The debate will continue to rage up until kick-off this Sunday night. All I can hope and cross my fingers for is a Blues victory with the decider back here in Sydney in a few weeks. C’mon the BLUES!!! See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 20 June 2019 Issue 254

on the

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