Nepeannews 21april2016

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Thursday, 21 April 2016

ISSUE 173

SPECIAL ANZAC DAY TRIBUTE PAGES 18 -23. LEST WE FORGET

HONOURING THE BRAVE

Former Honorary Colonel of 1 Commando Regiment, the Hon Peter Collins OA QC was the special guest speaker at the St Marys march last weekend. Read more in our Anzac Tribute inside.

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“PENRITH is such a go ahead city and it was a real pleasure to catch up with Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler to talk about how we get more local jobs, better transport and housing,” Assistant Minister for Cities Angus Taylor said on Friday.

Penrith’s role as a Regional City and how its success is integral to the future of Western Sydney and Australia was the topic of Penrith Council’s meeting with the Minister and Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott.

The Minister received an overview of Penrith’s significant potential, the opportunities for economic uplift around the airport and the increased productivity that can be realised through better infrastructure and local jobs.

Penrith Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Penrith has a lot to offer. “We are a strong Council with a bold vision and we’re talking to all levels of Government about how a stronger Penrith is in the nation’s best interests.

“As the Government prepares to launch its Cities agenda, it was a prime opportunity to make a case for transformative investment that will reap dividends both for the City, the Region and Government,” Cr Fowler said.

As the new Assistant Minister for Cities, Mr Taylor said he will be working closely with his colleague Member for Lindsay Fiona Scott to encourage growth that is sustainable for Penrith, supported by necessary infrastructure.

“Western Sydney Airport will bring extraordinary opportunities for the area but we need to get transport services, including rail, and other services absolutely right.”

“The Government is taking a new approach to

Prue Car MP Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler OAM presented Council’s 2016 Priorities document to Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation and Member for Hume Angus Taylor MP, who was invited to Penrith by Lindsay MP Fiona Scott.

funding big infrastructure projects where we’ll be getting in earlier in the proposal stages as an active investor not a passive grant giver. Our cities agenda is about partnering with local and state governments, capturing more value from the Government’s infrastructure investments, and building better cities.

“Penrith is already a great city but I am keen to see how we can get more jobs locally, closer to people’s homes, so it becomes a more liveable city into the future,” Mr Taylor said.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said “Penrith is the heart of the New West and we’re making things happen, not waiting for them to happen.

We’re taking every opportunity to tell Penrith’s story ahead of the Federal election.”

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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4 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

From the Editor’s Desk 203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Journalist: Journalist: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Journalst: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Jarrod McGrouther 0406 826 259 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Tom Carey 0425 803 180 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.nepeannews.com.au

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.

by Kerrie Davies APRIL is one of my favourite months of the year.

The heat has started to fade away, but the cold hasn’t yet set in; the beautiful autumn shades of yellows and oranges are abound; and then there’s the abundance of public holidays that enable us to take the first breather since Christmas.

It’s also a month of giving thanks. Church-goers will have already spent a fair chunk of this month giving thanks to the man upstairs, and many will give thanks to our defence forces past and present on Anzac Day. Let’s all set our alarms nice and early on Anzac Day and head to the Dawn Service to show our diggers how much we appreciate the sacrifices they made for our nation and it’s people. Lets pause and reflect on the thousands who never made it back.

Even if it is raining and you’re warm in your bed, spare a thought for those who crawled through mud and often went with no sleep at all in order to survive.

We no longer have any WW1 vets living, and my mother’s oldest sibling, John Buchanan Richardson, aged 92, (my Uncle Jacky) is one of an elite group of WW11 veterans still living; but that list is declining - in fact this year he’s now the only one left from WW11 in his branch.

As time rolls on more and more great souls who gave great sacrifice in the earlier theatres of war will leave this earth, and each year there will be less of them standing proudly displaying their well-earned badges.

Let’s stand by our diggers and roll up in droves this Anzac Day and as proud Australians let’s salute them now before it is too late.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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

Alice luckily survives cliff fall

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at WellPet Vets phone 1300 WELLPET

Senior Veterinarian and CEO WellPets Vets Mountains, Nepean and St Clair

THIS is the story of Alice and her owner who travelled from Western Australia to compete in the Weimaraner breed category at the Royal Easter show this year.

Alice and her family were staying in the Blue Mountains for a few days before the show. On March 26th, Alice was going for a bush walk up in Hazelbrook with her owner. While playing with another dog, Alice got slightly spooked and fell off a cliff some 20-30 meters! Initially it was presumed she was dead or severely injured. Firefighters and police were called to start a search party but the bush was too thick to locate her. A friend and local resident who knew the area well was called and from the description of where she fell, started on foot to search for her. After some time he located Alice who was standing not far from where she would have fallen.

Alice wagged her tail with happiness when she saw him. Astonishingly, she didn’t move far from where she fell and waited hours for help to arrive!

What was even more incredible was that she walked out with the local resident back to her owner! Alice was then taken immediately to a local vet in Hazelbrook. Dr. Adam examined her. Despite walking into the clinic with no obvious injuries, Alice was suffering from shock. She was shaky,

exhausted and her gums were pale.

She had some small superficial grazes on her but thankfully no major injuries to her body were found. She was immediately treated for shock. Alice was placed on intravenous fluids and she was given pain relief. Dr Adam then performed an abdominal ultrasound to check for any internal damage from the fall. The ultrasound showed no internal bleeding or major injury. Alice wasn’t out of the woods yet! She was still suffering shock and was very disorientated and exhausted.

There was a chance she could have deteriorated very quickly if not closely monitored. Dr. Adam therefore recommended she be transferred to WellPet Vets 24HR Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service operating out of Nepean Animal Hospital. There she would continue her treatment for shock and ensure she was closely monitored overnight.

Alice arrived at Wellpet Vets and Dr. Rachel examined her condition and performed further testing on her blood.

The blood testing checked her organs functions. Her test results confirmed she was suffering stress and exhaustion consistent with the shock from her fall. She continued on intravenous fluids and pain relief whilst in WellPet Vets ICU ward. There she received close overnight monitoring and regular pain relief. Her blood work was repeated the following morning to check for any changes. It confirmed no significant change, indicating no internal damage. This meant that Alice was given the all-clear to fly home and was discharged the next morning.

Her owner was amazed that she was found and even more ecstatic that she escaped with very minor scrapes!

Unfortunately she missed her chance for breed champion at the Easter Show this year, but thankfully she is ok and will try again next year!

LEASED

Youth Mayor Competition

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9834 1044 NEPEAN DISTRICT

Stuart Ayres

Member for Penrith

Last year’s Junior Mayor Competition winners pictured with Councillor Jackie Greenow OAM, Councillor Kevin Crameri OAM, Councillor Maurice Girotto and Mayor Ross Fowler OAM.

AS part of Local Government Week 2016, Penrith City Council is giving lucky students from Years 7 to 9 in the Penrith Local Government Area, the opportunity to be Youth Mayor or Youth Councillors and take part in a mock Council meeting. Now in its fifteenth year this competition, the first in its new secondary schools format gives our future local politicians a chance to dabble in local government and democracy.

Penrith Mayor Cr Karen McKeown said the competition provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about the role of Council in the local community.

“We expect our Young Leaders from Years 7 to 9 will be very passionate and take part in spirited debate,” Cr McKeown said.

“We know the young people in our community are passionate about democracy and want to have a say about where they live.”

With Penrith proudly known as the Adventure Capital of New South Wales, the 2016 Youth Mayor competition has a Penrith tourism and

adventure theme.

To enter the competition, students need to outline what their best adventure in Penrith would be.

Entries must fit on one A4 piece of paper, or be an audio visual file. Entries can be a story, poem, an artwork or comic strip.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the entries,” Cr McKeown said.

“We’re always looking for good advice from the community - no matter the age of residents.”

Entries must be submitted by Friday 27 May 2016.

The winning Youth Mayor and Youth Councillors need to be available to attend introductory meetings at Council’s Civic Centre on Monday 27 June and Monday 18 July 2016.

The mock Council meeting will be held on Monday 15 August 2016.

For more details on how to enter - go to penrithcity.nsw.gov.au or contact Colin Dickson on 4732 7645.

I used to struggle... but now schoolwork’s fun!

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Influenza Prevention Program – It’s that time of year again

By Jarrod McGrouther

THE Public Health Unit at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is holding free influenza vaccination clinics for eligible people at Nepean Hospital from April to May 2016. These clinics have been held successfully over the past 5 years, with over 800 people being vaccinated in 2015.

Influenza (or ‘flu’) is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, which can occur throughout the year but is most common during winter. Influenza viruses are mainly spread by droplets made when an infected person coughs or sneezes, but can also spread after touching surfaces where infected droplets have landed. Adults with influenza are infectious from the day before their symptoms start, until 5-7 days later, while infected children can be infectious for longer. Vaccination is very effective in preventing influenza infection, but needs to be given every year due to the strains of influenza virus changing over time.

Dr Bradley Forssman, Director of Public Health, NBMLHD, said

The ‘flu’ can knock you off your feet

patients can just turn up for their shot.

“No appointments are necessary and even at busy times people will be seen very quickly. Vaccination before the flu season begins gives people the greatest level of protection throughout the season; however, if

you miss out now vaccination later in the season will still give you protection,” Dr Bradley said.

People with influenza are usually very sick with fever and chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, joint pains, headaches, feeling very tired, nausea, vomiting

and diarrhoea. More severe cases of influenza can result in difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or persistent vomiting; if someone has these symptoms, medical advice should be sought immediately.

People who are at higher risk of complications from influenza, and for whom the vaccine is provided for free, are: * All people aged 65 years or older * All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months to less than five years or 15 years or older * Pregnant women * Individuals aged six months and over with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease and impaired immunity.

The clinics will be held at Nepean Hospital, Main Entrance Foyer, South Block – Monday, April 11 to Friday, May 27, 9am to 3.30pm. For more information about the clinics please contact the Public Health Unit on 4734 2022 or visit the NSW Health influenza factsheet: http:// www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/ factsheets/Pages/influenza_ factsheet.aspx

CEO appointment completes Panthers management restructure

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

31 YEAR-OLD former NRL player, Corey Payne, has become the NRL’s youngest CEO after his appointment as the Penrith Panthers’ Rugby League Chief Executive Officer.

Payne, who played 131 NRL games for the St George-Illawarra Dragons, Wests Tigers and Canterbury Bulldogs over eight seasons, will step into the role vacated last August by the now Wests Tigers CEO, Justin Pascoe.

Although the former NRL forward, who currently works with grocery giant Woolworths, won’t start in his new role until May, Payne says he is excited by the opportunity to continue the work started five years ago by Panthers Executive General Manager, Phil Gould.

“I’m very excited by the opportunity to join the Panthers,” Payne said.

“Over the last five years Phil Gould has put the club back in a financially viable position, ensured the salary cap is in good shape and established solid foundations on which we can build for the future.”

“There is a fantastic feeling about the club and I’m looking forward to being part of it.”

Payne’s credentials include his Bachelor and Masters of Commerce from the University of Sydney before receiving the prestigious Churchill Fellowship, which allowed him to travel to a number of countries to conduct research into how sport could be used for social change and capacity building within the community.

Payne is also the Founder of the Future Direction Network, an organisation that aims to raise the ambition and aspiration of youth from South West Sydney to pursue university education and was named NSW Young Australian of the Year in 2013.

Despite those impressive credentials, Payne wasn’t on Penrith’s radar for the role until a chance email from a contact working with club sponsor, Bryden’s Lawyers suggested that Payne should meet with Gould to view Penrith’s new $22 million headquarters led to discussions about the vacant role.

“It’s the best training facility in the southern hemisphere and the best

opportunity to attract, develop and retain talent in rugby league,” Payne said.

“I was excited by it and I asked Gus, ‘Who is going to be leading the show here?’ and ‘Who’s the CEO?’.

“He said they’re looking for one.”

“That’s when I told him I’d be pretty interested in having a discussion about that, to which Gus responded, ‘Be careful for what you wish for’.”

But Gould soon realised Payne was the “perfect fit” for the role.

“I always thought of Corey as destined for different things, bigger things,” Gould said.

“I even said that to him at the time.

I said why would you want to do this job?”

“But he was so passionate about it and he actually knew a lot more about us than I thought he did.”

“It all of a sudden dawned on me it was a perfect fit.”

“We all talk about sporting administrators and people claim that some just don’t have a feel for the game or a knowledge of the game. He ticked all those boxes.”

“The experiences he’s gained globally and the way he talks to me about business, the commercialising of sport, the business of sport, it’s exactly what we need.”

The appointment of Payne not only completes Penrith’s management team restructure with Brian Fletcher and David O’Neill the Group CEO and Chairman respectively but renews speculation over Gould’s future at the club, having recently said that finding a new CEO would complete his job at the club.

But while Gould refused to comment on his future at Penrith, he admitted that it was vital the club continued to grow and that he wasn’t the one who could do that.

“My role is not really up for discussion today. It’s more about Corey’s appointment,” Gould stated.

“It’s been always my goal that the next CEO of this organisation was seen as the boss of Panthers and perceived that way from the outside and within.”

“We’re in a perfect position with the foundations in place for a strong commercially and corporate-minded CEO to come in and take this club to the new level.”

“I can’t do that. Corey Payne can do that and that’s why he’s our new CEO.”

Cops are tops!

THE St Marys LAC Police Officer of the Year annual award night dinner was held recently at St Marys Leagues Club.

The yearly event, which is hosted by the Rotary Clubs of St Marys and Wallacia, celebrates finalists who have been nominated by both the community and their peers for going above and beyond the call of duty.

The awards acknowledge outstanding acts of courtesy, kindness, understanding, compassion, courage or devotion to duty provided to the local community during 2015 by officers of the NSW Police serving the community in the St Marys Local Area Command.

In a first-ever, Leading Senior Constable Troy Bulpett took out both trophies - winning both the Peer Award and the Community Award.

The selection of the winner of the trophies is carried out independently (Community by members of the Rotary clubs and the Peer by a Police Management team).

The night always enjoys a huge attendance consisting of Police dignitaries, local parliament members, representatives from Rotary, local business owners and fellow Police Officers and their families to cheer on the finalists.

Congratulations to Leading Senior Constable Bulpett and all of the nominated officers for assisting and protecting our community each and every day of the week.

L-R Acting Deputy Commissioner of NSW Police Geoffrey McKechnie, Troy Bulpett, St Marys LAC Superintendent Greg Peters.

7 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Do you see what I see?

ST MARYS Town Centre will be the canvas for an exciting and unusual exhibition where eight older residents of St Marys have captured their suburb through photos. The residents are now inviting the community to see the town they love through their eyes.

Do you see what I see provides an opportunity for participants to tell their stories about St Marys through a curated series of photographs that will be exhibited as ‘paste ups’ in and around the busy St Marys Town Centre. Over six weeks participants explored St Marys with artist Lisa Cross to creatively capture stories through their photographs.

The exhibition will transform unexpected public places with paste-ups telling each participant’s story while an Art Map designed for viewers to follow, creates a sense of discovery and adventure.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said the project creatively shows the residents pride in where they live.

“This project is a delightful artistic insight into the pride of St Marys,” Cr McKeown said.

“What is particularly interesting is the use of paste ups to display the artistic work of our older residents. It’s an exciting mix of youthful techniques blended with a well seasoned outlook on the suburb.”

The Art Map will guide residents and visitors around the St Marys Town Centre and the exhibited works. The artist and participants also hope local residents will stumble across these jewels as they go about their daily routines in the vibrant Queen St precinct.

Do you see what I see was funded through Council’s Magnetic Places grants program. Magnetic Places creates placemaking projects that bring artists and communities together in 12 older established neighbourhoods across Penrith.

Applications for the next round of funding will open in August. For more details on Magnetic Places contact Donita Hulme on 4732 7809 or email magneticplaces@penrithcity. nsw.gov.au

Council nominated for diversity excellence SPICY Penrith, a Penrith community festival celebrating diverse cultures and social connection was a finalist in the Excellence in Diversity category at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

The award showcases an environment where diversity and inclusion are valued.

Spicy Penrith is coordinated by Penrith Council in collaboration with an organising committee from the Federation of Australia Indian Associations, the Sri Lankan Cultural Forum, the Nepalese Community of Western Sydney and the Association of Bhutanese in Australia. 120 performers and 400 audience members come together to celebrate the subcontinental cultures of Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and India through food, song and dance.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said the nomination recognises Council in promoting cultural diversity.

“Spicy Penrith has been held on three occasions, each time growing in size,” Cr McKeown said.

“Penrith’s cultural diversity is changing quickly as culturally and linguistically diverse communities are choosing to live in our city. Spicy Penrith is the most significant event that showcases that diversity.”

Spicy Penrith – a finalist in the Excellence in Diversity category at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

The Local Government awards also recognised Council’s Acting Senior Governance Officer Adam Beggs as dux of the Local Government Professional 2015 Learning and Leadership Course for Governance.

The course on local government governance is attended by local government professionals at Charles Sturt University with students sitting a final exam and then submitting a written report for marking.

Federal funding to fix local black spots ROAD safety in the Nepean region has received a significant boost with a new round of funding announced under the Federal Government’s Black Spot Programme.

Fiona Scott MP, Federal Member for Lindsay has welcomed the announcement of $837,500 of funding to fix 7 black spots on local roads.

The projects were recommended by a panel of independent road safety experts and would be delivered during the course of 2016-17.

“This investment is helping to make our local roads safer for all users.

“Residents will recognise the history and notoriety of each of these locations, including through their own near misses and seeing emergency services at the site first-hand,” Fiona Scott said.

“To date we have already secured $1.19 million in other road safety measures under this programme and it shows that the Federal Government is committed to reducing crashes on our roads. Accidents take a huge toll on families, our communities and the economy and I am delighted to see these upgrades approved.

“This announcement adds to a $250,000 commitment from the NSW Baird Government, for the strategic development of the Andromeda Drive/ Northern Road intersection.

The entire project is expected to cost approximately $3.6 million.

The approved projects in Lindsay for this round of black spot funding are:

$180,000

Intersection of Chapel Street and Lethbridge Street at St Marys: $180,000 to install a single lane roundabout;

$160,000

Intersection of Barlow Street and Haining Street at Cambridge Park: $160,000 to install a single lane roundabout;

$160,000

Intersection of Oxford Street and Wrench Street and William Street at Cambridge Park: $160,000 to install a single lane roundabout;

$160,000

Intersection of Victoria Street and Gibson Avenue at Werrington: $160,000 to install a single lane roundabout;

$100,000

Section of Glenmore Parkway from Kenneth Slessor Drive to south of Allison Drive at Glenmore Park: $100,000 to remove clearzone hazards and install wire rope barrier on median, curve alignment markers and retro reflective pavement markers on centre or edge lines;

$50,000

Intersection of Nepean Street and Dewdney Road at Emu Plains: $50,000 to install a pedestrian refuge, raised medians and raised islands with additional stop or give-way signs;

$27,500

Intersection of Victoria Street and Sandringham Avenue at Cambridge Park: $27,500 to install raised islands with additional signage and upgrade intersection from giveway to stop.

For more information on the Australian Government’s Black Spot Programme, or to nominate a black spot, visit http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/blackspots/

Funding extension to benefit our most vulnerable MEMBER for Mulgoa Tanya Davies visited Bridging the Gap Sydney West Inc to announce an extension of contracts for service providers working with vulnerable children, young people, families and communities.

“I am thrilled to announce that four services in the Mulgoa electorate will receive a funding extension totalling $706,498 to continue to support early intervention so that children and families at risk have access to assistance,” Mrs Davies said.

Bridging the Gap, an independent not-for-profit community organisation that has been working in St Marys with children, young people and their families since 1984, will receive a funding extension of $197,197 to continue their Youth Resilience programs.

Each year Bridging the Gap helps over 300 young people and their families build resilience through their Adolescent and Family Counselling service and their Youth Resilience Building programs held in local high schools and at the Phillip Street, St Marys location.

After attending four sessions of the Rage Program, one young boy reflected on its effectiveness.

“I’ve always been an angry person but I don’t have to be that anymore. I can change, I am changing and people have noticed,” he said.

Bridging the Gap works in partnership with local high schools to offer resilience building and leadership programs. At their St Marys offices they create a safe place for young people and their families to tap into free financial counselling and offer the No Interest Loan Scheme, as well as the Brighter Futures and Youth Hope family support programs.

Left to right Carole Tozer, CEO, Bonny Cotter, Program Manager, Ellyn Jackin, Youth Resilience Program Worker and Tanya Davies MP.

“We often see children, whose parents received support when they were teenagers, coming back to us because their family knows and trusts our people,” said Carole Tozer, CEO. “We support the NSW Government’s initiative bringing services into the local community, accurately targeting local people’s needs through the long term funding of Early Intervention Programs such as these.”

The NSW Government invests $233 million each

year to more than 600 organisations that deliver early intervention, intensive and community based services to more than 130,000 children, young people and families. These services work with their clients to help them before they reach crisis points in their lives.

If you know someone or are struggling at school, feel stressed out or just need someone to talk to, you can call Bridging the Gap on (02) 9673 1211.

9 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Join a social group COMMUNITY Junction Inc is a not for profit, community-based organisation who work closely with our communities to cater to their ongoing needs. They run various groups and programs from various locations at Nth St Marys, St Clair, Colyton, Erskine Park, Werrington and surrounding areas at low cost for members our community.

Their Community Friendship Social Group is looking for new members. We will be holding a mix and mingle meeting on Tuesday 10th May 12 noon – 2pm at Autumnleaf Neighbourhood Centre, cnr Autumnleaf Pde and Timesweep Drive St Clair. To RSVP or for more information please contact the team on 9834 2708.

A FREE Family Fun Day will be held on 7th May 2016 from 10am – 2pm at Autumnleaf Neighbourhood Centre, cnr Autumnleaf Pde and Timesweep Dr St Clair. There will be stalls, petting zoo, face painter, jumping castle and a fundraising sausage sizzle. For more information please contact the team on 9834 2708.

Picnic to shine the light

By Garion Thain

STATISTICS indicate that social exclusion, inequality and harassment lead to a higher rate of mental illness and suicide in members of the same-sex oriented and transgender community.

In celebration of the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, Penrith City Council is sponsoring a community picnic organised by the LGBT community and Open Door Community of Christ in Cranebrook that aims to bring the community together and “shine the light” on homophobia and exclusionary behaviour in Western Sydney.

All are invited to the picnic, held at River Road in Emu Plains on the 14th of May in hopes events such as these can lend to local harmony and social cohesion.

Representatives from IDAHOT and Open Door say the ‘invisibility’ of the closet is the most burdening weight on LGBT people from all age groups.

“There is a need for the wider community to become more involved

The IDAHOT BBQ Picnic is a free event aimed at ‘shining the light’ on exclusionary behaviour.

in education and assistance to raise awareness of the negative impact that homophobia and transphobia can have,” they said. “[The picnic] is a day to raise awareness as well as recognise the need to end harassment, bullying and all forms of discrimination.

“This event will aim to ‘SHINE

A LIGHT’ on the message that there is no place in Western Sydney for homophobia and transphobia.”

The free BBQ Picnic has venues for children’s play, including a jumping castle and face painting. Information stalls, refreshments and merchandise will also be made available for purchase at the event.

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Councillor Greenow celebrates a milestone

Shots fired – Whalan

By Keegan Thomson

POLICE attached to Mount Druitt Local Area Command are investigating an incident on Sunday night at Whalan, where a number of shots were fired.

About 5.30pm (Sunday 17 April 2016), police responded to reports of several load bangs in Samarai Road.

Police attended and examined the scene, locating several bullet casings on the property.

No one was injured and investigations are ongoing.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com. au/ Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. We remind people they should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.

MAYOR of the Penrith City Councillor Karen McKeown has paid tribute to Councillor Jackie Greenow OAM, Penrith’s longest serving councillor during the monthly Council Meeting.

“Councillor Greenow has now served the City of Penrith for 21 years and has always been a strong advocate for women in local government and also a passionate advocate for St Marys,” said Councillor McKeown.

Across her 21 years in public service Councillor Greenow has made her mark on the Penrith regional area through her work in women’s advocacy, education, flood mitigation and local cultural expansion, just to name a few.

During the Council Meeting the Mayor proposed a commemoration in light of Councillor Greenow’s continuing long service to the community.

Councillor McKeown said she had written to the Roads and Maritime Service Chief Executive, Peter Duncan AM, “ to request a change to the walk symbol at one or two pedestrian crossings in St Marys – turning the ‘green man’ lantern into a ‘green lady’.”

This would be the first set of ‘green lady’ pedestrian lights in New South Wales, and the second batch in the country, after the City of Yarra Council in Melbourne changed some of their ‘green men’ over for International Women’s Day. Councillor Greenow said she felt very proud and honoured by the gesture.

“I’m humbled and honoured, you don’t do this job for the merits. When someone tells you you’ve helped them it is a great feeling and it is its own reward,” she said.

“When someone comes up and says, can you help me, and sadly you can’t always help people, but when you’re able to get something done, they will come back and say thank you.”

Originally Councillor Greenow decided to run for public office because her home damaged in a flood and she knew the council was at fault, but ultimately the people who really pushed for her career in politics were her sons.

“They said ‘you can speak up for the other people’ and they pushed me, and they questioned me and above all they’ve been a marvelous support,” she said.

Even with all the fanfare around her latest milestone Councillor Greenow isn’t slowing down.

Her next plan is to run for office in the upcoming council elections later on in September.

Not smart!

THAT’S a very expensive piece of fence. As Penrith Police said, pictured here is a very unsafe practice indeed. Make sure you have the appropriate vehicle for picking up and transporting large items and ensure they are secure or covered or both.

The fine is $425.

“Yes there is no excuse for this and the fine is deserved,” Police said.

11 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Tiny fella facing enormous battle - please help

By Kerrie Davies

TICKETS to the fundraiser for little Bryson Miles and his family are still on sale, so why not grab yours now and join Comedian Mick Meredith and Abbalanche in helping this local family face one of the toughest battles imaginable.

Featured on the cover of the last edition of Nepean News, the smiling little fella is Bryson Miles, a three year old boy from Penrith.

His family were living the dream, with three healthy children, a mortgage, with mum and dad, Tamara and Grant, both working to make ends meet.

That was until February 1 this year, when the world as they knew it turned upside down.

Little Bryson was diagnosed with a dulloblastoma tumour following an MRI..Less than 24 hours later he had an extensive operation to remove it from his brain, and surgeons took his top two vertebrae out and had to fuse them back in after operation.

Two days before his 3rd Birthday, on February 5, he was diagnosed with cancer.

In the last two months this little

fighter has endured seven general anaesthetics, four CT scans, three MRIs, major brain surgery, chemotherapy, lots of needles taking blood, a central line operation, three blood transfusions, countless X-rays and ultrasounds and over 30 stitches.

He also spent 18 hours in an induced coma in Westmead’s ICU. Makes you think about all the ridiculously small issues you’ve complained about over the last two months, doesn’t it? Chances are all

of them combined wouldn’t come close in comparison to just one of the challenges Bryson and his family have faced.

Imagine if this was your child, but you had no choice but to go off to work rather than to the hospital so you could ensure your family can still afford to live?

A few of Grant and Tamara’s goodhearted friends got together and are organising a fundraiser at St Marys Leagues Club on Friday, May 27.

“Our aim is to raise enough money so Grant (Bryson’s Dad) can take time off from work to be at the hospital with his wife and son who is battling this disease,” said one of those friends, Westley Giles.

There are many ways to help this family get through the toughest of all battles; the health and wellbeing of their toddler.

The ad we’ve put together on page 12 gives the details of the fundraiser should you wish to attend and help this local family be with their child to support him.

The fundraising committee are also eager to accept donations towards raffle and auction items. Basically, any help you can offer would be much appreciated.

If there’s a more worthy local cause than helping a little boy have his Dad by his side while he faces unfathomable health challenges, I don’t know what it is.

We can’t take the nasty health problems away for Bryson, but we can certainly chip in and help this family - our community has proven this time and time again. Please help us support Bryson and his family.

Tickets are $100 or $900 for a table and can be bought by contacting Westley Giles on 0405 157 080.

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Food drop a Labour of Love

By Keegan Thomson

A HUSBAND and wife team are fighting poverty in Western Sydney by handing out free food to some of the areas most disadvantaged households and families through their charity Labour of Love.

Three times a week Pastor Mafi Marzhew and his wife, Pastor Denise, hold their food drive in numerous locations across Western Sydney, bringing some much needed relief to locals who struggle to make ends meet.

Pastor Mafi said he and his wife started the charity because they feel it is the right thing to do.

“It was just a calling for me. I had to sacrifice everything, even earning money, just to come out here to do this,” Pastor Mafi said.

“It is all about free love, you’ve got to practice what you preach.”

The couple picks up bruised and over stocked produce including bread, fruit and vegetables donated from local suppliers and distribute it to hungry families across Western Sydney up to three times a week.

With a small army of volunteers the couple set up a row of tables in local

Pastor Denise and Pastor Mafi at a food drop in Emerton. Photo credit: Keegan Thomson

carparks with the food on top and distributes the food around the crowd.

Each week the charity feeds around 800 people across the West, and recently the charity has been set up at Emerton soccer ovals.

Phoebe Griffiths, from Lethbridge Park, survives off the donations Labour of Love hand out. “It helps our family a lot. Without their help we wouldn’t get through,” she said.

After she saw how Labour of Love helps a family first hand, Phoebe decided to volunteer and help hand

out deliveries in a hope that she could lend a hand to those in need.

“They help me so I want to help them give back to the community,” she said.

Labour of Love relies on donations to keep the charity going, and even though there is a constant outpouring of support from local business, Pastor Mafi is struggling to have Labour of Love reach its full potential.

“The main issue that I’m facing here is that I need more space. I need the facilities to facilitate all of this,”

the Pastor said.

The truck the couple use is a rental, and because they don’t have a big enough refrigerated warehouse they turn down hundreds of donations of perishable goods a week.

“We have a lot of food but I can only bring out what I can fit in the rental truck, and we need a factory to keep everything fresh.”

Even with these hurdles the couple are still staying strong and hope to help make the Western Sydney community a better place.

Gathering space for Cranebrook residents

By Kerrie Davies

A VACANT piece of land in Cranebrook is about to be transformed into a place for local residents in Cranebrook to get together and participate in free activities.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres joined Stephen McIntyre, CEO of Wentworth Community Housing, and Lisa Eggers, Sustainable Communities Project Officer to share the news.

Mr McIntyre said the gathering space will create an outdoor space where local organisations can deliver their mobile services and community engagement activities.

“The intention of this project is to use the block of land and turn it into a focal point for the community, where Mums and their kids can come in a safe environment to get together,” Mr McIntyre said.

Mr Ayres said he was thrilled that Wentworth Community Housing were successful in receiving a grant for $46,599 for their project.

“Last year community groups, councils, charities and private organisations were encouraged to put forward projects that would help improve our local area under the NSW Government’s Social Housing Community Improvement Fund,” Mr Ayres said.

Our Place Our Gathering Space

Stuart Ayres MP joined Lisa Eggers and Stephen McIntyre at the Cranebrook site.

will be located at 22 Greenhalg Street, Cranebrook - which is currently a large empty green space with a couple of young trees.

The project, which is expected to commence construction in June this year is tagged for completion by March 2017.

“One of the things about this

community is building a sense of trust, people really don’t know one another or come together,” Mr McIntyre said.

“We’ve consulted with Penrith Council and to some local artists and the concept is to have a location that is low maintenance, friendly and inviting for people to come.

“A key feature will be in engaging

the community with the design.”

The Our Place Our Gathering Space is among more than 120 projects across NSW given funding by the NSW Government.

To find out more about the Social Housing Community Improvement Fund, visit www.facs.nsw.gov.au/ SHCIF

13 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Street talk: Women-only carriages Nepean News asked Western Sydney locals what they thought about the proposed women-only train carriages

By Keegan Thomson and Jarrod McGrouther

OVER the last few months there has been a spate of physical and sexual assaults across Western Sydney trains. Recently the Rail, Tram and Bus Union national secretary Bob Nanva floated the idea of women-only carriages on Sydney trains after 8pm. We asked Western Sydney locals what they thought about women-only train carriages.

Natasha Skrypka – Springwood “I think it’s ridiculous, just as quiet carriages are ridiculous. It is stupid, like why?”

Vanessa Baxter – Riverstone “That could be a lot safer, seeing as there’s some pretty crazy people on trains these days.”

John O’keefe – Penrith “I think that would be a good idea, because there’s a lot happening on trains, we need more security or something like that.”

Craig Irvine – Penrith “I think yes, it’s not very safe at all, I’ve got a fair few friends that have had stuff happen to them on trains”

Derek Wotherspoon – St Clair “It’s a good idea but a visible police presence in all transport venues would probably negate some of that need.”

Colleen Heffernan – Penrith “I think it’s a good idea, I just got back from Japan and they have women only carriages in peak hour. I think it’s a safer option, but (whether) they can control that and make sure that it is women only is a completely different story.”

Nita

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

THERE are several different types or variations of acne; some are common whilst others are very rare. The acne most people have is known as acne vulgaris meaning common.

Doctors will usually divide acne into four different grades: Grade 1: Open comedones – mild Grade 2: Open and closed comedones and some papulopustules – moderate.

Grade 3: Pustular Acne – severe Grade 4: Nodulocystic Acne – cystic.

These descriptions are a helpful start

What do you think about the women only carriages?

Let us know on the Nepean News facebook page.

LIVING AND DEALING WITH ACNE to getting acne correctly diagnosed and more importantly treated.

Mild Acne This describes skin that is beginning to show the typical first signs of acne; greasiness, open blackheads sometimes in larger numbers and a few spots. There is no inflammation. Mild acne might be widespread or confined to one area. Grade 1 acne often occurs in early adolescence particularly on the nose and forehead. A lot of adults also have mild acne, which is present as blackheads on the forehead and nose.

Milia are often present in the chin and eye region.

This type of acne is generally fairly easy to keep under control and you will not be left with scarring. If you treat acne when it is in its early stage it can help to prevent it worsening to moderate acne, this is particularly important in teenagers.

Moderate Acne Grade 2 acne can be concentrated in one area or may be widespread.

Comedones (blackheads) and milia will be present in greater numbers.

Spots maybe larger, usually red and / or filled with pus with signs of open and closed comedones. Inflammation of the skin will be visible. Papules and pustules will appear with greater frequency and breakout activity is more apparent. Spots may start to appear on other areas of the face, not just the nose and forehead. The shoulders and chest may also develop acne spots, with occasional spots on the back, particularly in men. Adult women often develop spots and breakouts of the chin, cheeks, and jaw line, particularly when immediately pre – menstrual and during periods. Another factor that may determine Grade 1 acne from Grade 2 acne would be spots showing various

stages of the acne process, newly formed spots to healing spots and some scarring.

Moderate acne can progress to severe acne, especially if the acne spots or pimples are frequently squeezed or picked.

Severe Acne Grade 3 acne is considered severe.

The main difference between moderate and severe acne is the degree of inflammation present. The skin now inflamed and reddened. Red and yellow spots and comedones will be present, but far more widespread and very angry looking. Papules and pustules appear in larger numbers. Severe acne usually affects other regions, such as the neck, chest, shoulders and back.

The risk of scarring developing is greater because the infection spreads and affects deeper layers of the skin.

Part 2 continued next week...

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New exciting stage for Fusion western Sydney

L to R: Rubie Hammond, Sophie Head, and James Wood from Fusion Western Sydney are looking forward to the future of their work with the community based in the new Fusion Youth and Community Centre in Queen Street St Marys.

FUSION Western Sydney has moved!

Following the sale of the property in Carsons Lane, St Marys which has been the Fusion Youth and Community Centre for the since 2011, Fusion has now taken up residence in the heart of St Marys CBD. The Fusion team is making the most of this remarkable opportunity to put the face of Fusion’s youth and community work on St Mary’s main street, moving to three properties at the top end of Queen Street, adjacent to the train station. Fusion Building and Maintenance has established a new showroom and workshop in Coombes Drive Penrith, closer to suppliers and businesses in the building trade.

The kindness and support of many businesses and individuals made the transformation of the derelict building at Carsons Lane into a buzzing hub of community life. Fusion’s programs and social enterprises expanded beyond expectations and the team has plans to continue and build on this growth in its new location.

“We are ready for this next exciting stage,” said James Wood, youth and community worker and co-ordinator of Fusion’s move.

“We’re not changing, just moving our work right into the middle of St Marys, close to the train and other services. This is such a great opportunity to meet new people and grow community in a part of town that could do with a boost.

“The Fusion Administration Hub has been established in Station Street and reburbishment is underway of our new café on the corner of Queen and Station Streets. The community centre across the road at 21 Queen Street will take some work to get ready, but we’ve experienced such great support from the community before, that we hope others will see what is possible here and come on board to make a great space for the people of St Marys.”

The new community centre requires

major renovation and fit-out to create a flexible, user friendly, modern and hospitable space so that Fusion can continue to deliver its large range of programs and activities for both small and large groups.

The vibrant multi-purpose community space will be open each morning providing the opportunity for connection and friendship including a market day, community choir, art and dance classes, playgroup and parenting courses. Programmes for young people in dance and barista skills will be held after school plus play groups plus conferences for families, mentoring and training opportunities.

Plans for the Centre also include a commercial kitchen to deliver training in food handling courses, cooking and hospitality, a small community garden and a recording studio to offer training in music production, broadcasting, recording and media and sound technology.

Fusion is an international notfor-profit Youth and Community organisation that has been working with young people, their families and communities for over 55 years.

Each week, Fusion teams respond to the needs of the community through training, support and connection through its programmes for young people, families, the elderly and isolated. Fusion Western Sydney also holds special community events including Cinema in the Park held this year in Coachmans Park and Sleep in Your Car, an annual event to raise awareness about homelessness.

For more information about Fusion Western Sydney go to www. fusionwesternsydney.org.au or to assist with the establishment and renovation of its new Youth and Community Centre in Queen Street to with a financial or “in-kind” donation of building supplies or expertise please contact James Wood on 8805 5900.

15 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Legends of the Nepean

By Garion Thain

David Pullen and Robin Pullen.

COMPASSION is complicated. It’s not strictly an emotion, its behaviour. And compassionate behaviour is multiple acts of kindness and understanding towards others. With this in mind, I have no doubts in my mind that David and Robin Pullen are compassionate people. As Salvation Army officers, they have devoted most of their lives to helping the less fortunate. Robin has run a program for homeless individuals in the city named ‘Street Level,’ working with the marginalised on the street, and David is currently overlooking the Salvation Army’s response to drugs and alcohol, having set up ‘Pathways,’ a methadone cessation program supported by the NSW government, back home in the Nepean. Together, they have helped countless former addicts overcome drug addiction and regain their dignity, which David stresses as an important facet of recovery.

I met with David Pullen in person in St Marys this week to have a chat over lunch about him and his wife’s

nomination as legends. He was open to talk about recovery, agreeing that drug and alcohol abuse isn’t talked about as much as he thinks it could be, and we had a discussion about forgiveness, spirituality and dignity – recovering the person behind the addict. David and Robin Pullen are great members of the Nepean community and very deserving of the title ‘legends.’

The Salvation Army recently brought David and Robin back to Penrith, however the Nepean has always been their first home.

Following in the steps of David’s parents who were also Salvos, they sold their home in Emu Plains in 1988 and went through the Salvo training college in Penrith.

“The Salvation Army is who I am, a part of my identity with my wife,” said Mr Pullen.

Decades of service and appointments to multiple locales, including Bateman’s Bay and Canberra led to involvement in the Drug/Alcohol response area of the Salvation Army.

The Pullens have been involved with the Drug/Alcohol segment for the past decade, with David now responsible for the Salvation Army’s response

to Drugs and Alcohol in New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.

‘Pathways’ in Penrith is the result of this role, and the Salvation Army launched it with the help of the state government, opened by Stuart Ayres. “’Pathways’ is about long-term methadone, helping [addicts] to stabilise, and completely cease where appropriate,” said Mr Pullen.

“We have to work holistically with the Nepean Community to respond to the impact of drugs.”

Mr Pullen noted that ice is still a facet of the problem, but identified other drugs that are a bigger difficulty than the general public is aware of.

“Alcohol impacts more than a lot of people think too… but what is really problematic is heroin. It is making a resurgence after its popularity in 80’s and 90’s,” said Mr Pullen.

When asked about the logistics on treating people on drugs that are addictive, Mr Pullen was proud to say the treatment consistently works.

“Statistically speaking, the outcomes for the pathways program are as good as or usually better than the international averages,” he said.

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DAVID & ROBIN PULLEN “Treatment for people on ice is incredibly effective – people have a better recovery rate from drugs than is commonly thought.”

The conversation then turned towards how the Pullens deal with addicts. The humanity from ‘Pathways’ really began to show after Mr Pullen began talking about connections. Mr Pullen is very passionate about restoring dignity and connecting with people effected by drugs, having written a paper for a journal on the topic with Prof. David Best.

“You never give up – never give up on someone seeking recovery,” said Mr Pullen.

“Everyone deserves a shot at redemption. It is often a series of mistakes… every addict is someone’s son or daughter, maybe mum or dad.”

I asked Mr Pullen if it’s hard to keep an optimistic outlook after a decade in the sector.

“I don’t [find it hard],” said Mr Pullen.

“If people can accept a person as an equal, see them as a person and not the addict, their chance of redemption is enhanced,” he continued.

“When you can restore a person’s dignity, you get back to the person.”

At this point, Mr Pullen referenced the parable of the prodigal son, and we discussed the humanity in reformation.

“In the story, if the son thought he would get the same response from his father that he did from his brother, after working in the pig farm, he wouldn’t have gone back.

“The father put the ring back on his son’s finger, showing him acceptance, before he even asked him to bathe.”

Mr Pullen said that connecting with the person is part of what he, his wife and the Salvation Army do. He said that he is heartened when people come up to him or his wife and say they helped them recover.

Turning back to the Nepean before we parted ways, Mr Pullen mentioned the Red Shield Appeal and asked the community to support their work in the community.

“For every $1 raised in the Nepean during the appeal, more than $2 goes back to the Nepean,” he said.

“The Nepean is well served.”

For those interested in joining the 2016 red shield appeal, Mr Pullen offered the link salvos.org.au/Nepean

17

I met with David Pullen at the Station Plaza in St Marys, where we talked about redemption and dignity.

David & Robin Pullen were nominated as Legends of the Nepean by Domenic Meduri.

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

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AANZAC TRIBUTE 18 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

ANZAC: Shaping an Australian society

W

HEN war broke out in 1914, Australia had been a federal commonwealth for only 13 years. The new national government was eager to establish its reputation among the nations of the world. In 1915 Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula in order to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies.

The ultimate objective was to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul in Turkey), the capital of the Ottoman Empire, an ally of Germany.

The Australian and New Zealand forces landed on Gallipoli on 25 April, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish defenders. What had been planned as a bold stroke to knock Turkey out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months. At the end of 1915 the allied forces were evacuated, after both sides had suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers had been killed. News

of the landing on Gallipoli had made a profound impact on Australians at home, and 25 April soon became the day on which Australians remembered the sacrifice of those who had died in the war.

Although the Gallipoli campaign failed in its military objectives, the Australian and New Zealand actions during the campaign left us all a powerful legacy. The creation of what became known as the “Anzac legend” became an important part of the identity of both nations, shaping the ways they viewed both their past and their future.

The Dawn Service observed on Anzac Day has its origins in a military routine which is still followed by the Australian Army today. During battle, the half-light of dawn was one of the most favoured times for an attack. Soldiers in defensive positions were woken in the dark before dawn, so by the time first light crept across the battlefield they were awake, alert, and manning their weapons; this is still known as the “standto”. As dusk is equally favourable for attacks, the stand-to was repeated at sunset.

AANZAC TRIBUTE THE rain and the school holidays didn’t deter the crowds from attending the traditional pre-Anzac marches and commemorative services in Penrith and St Marys.

In Penrith, attendees braved the weather and laid wreaths at the Memory Park service.

In St Marys, Victoria Park was a sea of umbrellas at the service following the march down Queen Street which involved veterans, politicians, schools, scouts and other various community groups.

Cr Jackie Greenow, who took part in the St Marys march, wore the nurse uniform to celebrate the important role nurses played during the war.

Anzac Dawn Services will be held in Memory Park Penrith at 5am and in the car park of St Marys RSL “The Train” at 5am on Monday, April 25.

Anzac march St Marys: St Marys sub-Branch Patron, Cr Jackie Greenow marched in army nurse uniform. Pictured here with St Marys Historical Society President, Carol Volkiene

THE ODE OF REMEMBRANCE They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Stuart Ayres

MP

Member for Penrith

‘We pay tribute to those‘We pay tribute to those Australians who foughtAustralians for who fought for our country and our values. our country and our values.

Lest we forget’ Lest we forget’ Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au 23,510-534 Tattersalls Centre, Shop 23, PenrithShop Centre, High St, Penrith510-534 High Street, Penrith

Ross Fowler

PENRITH DEPUTY MAYOR

Anzac Day is one of the most important days in the history of our nation.

Remembering our service personnel who fought and sacrificed their lives for us is a duty all Australians share.

Lest we Forget p: 4722 3066 m: 0419 738 484 Email: ross@rossfowler.com.au

AS Australians, on Anzac Day we pause to remember the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice to afford us the freedom we enjoy today.

To date, over 102,000 Australians have given their lives on the battlefield; however, many no longer have anyone to specifically remember their legacy.

In 2015, Poppy Park was created to do just this, seeing over 102,000 poppies planted. The beauty of the initiative was that each had the name of a fallen hero attached. The idea being that each poppy could be purchased and kept as a memento following the display, so that no Australian soldier’s name ever dies.

On the back of the success of last year’s display, there are still a number of poppies left for purchase. With Anzac Day 2016 fast approaching, what better way to commemorate our fallen then to purchase one of these symbolic reminders?

Proceeds will be forwarded to Penrith RSL Sub Branch and Legacy, so that the great work they do can continue into the future.

For more information or to purchase a poppy, visit http://www.poppypark.org.au

19 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Big turnout at Anzac marches

Poppies still for sale

AANZAC TRIBUTE 20 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

ANZAC ADDRESS by Hon Peter Collins AM QC THE Hon Peter Collins OA QC, former Honorary Colonel of 1 Commando Regiment (and former Opposition Leader, Minister and MP in the NSW government) was the special guest at the Anzac March in St Marys last weekend. His words were very moving and we thank him for allowing us to share them with our readers: Today we gather to remember the sacrifice of Australian men and women who have given their lives to protect the freedom and good fortune we enjoy just by being Australian.

We remember all those who have served, many bearing the physical and mental scars of war, whether overseas or at home, in the defence of our country.

It was a young nation - just 13 years after we joined in Federation - which sent its young men to the other side of the world in what many see as our first act of nationhood in a war described as an act of collective political madness.

Young Australians rallied to the call from our cities, our farms, our towns - St Marys and Penrith among them.

Last year we commemorated the

Centenary of the landing at Gallipolli, the birth of the ANZACS (and the day we prepare for) on this solemn occasion.

Today, our focus shifts from Gallipolli to a very different kind of war. A century ago, the campaign in the Dardenelles was over for good after the evacuation of the Peninsula where our soldiers had stormed ashore only 7 months earlier.

1916 would see the AIF committed to a war the scale of which was unimaginable. On one day, a single British Division lost 3,800 men in just ten minutes of fighting. This was war on an industrial scale.

After arriving in France in March 1916, Australian soldiers were moved quickly to the Front, coming under concentrated artillery fire from May 5 onwards. On the 25th of June the first Australian VC (in Europe) was won

by Captain K Heritage, these were just skirmishes with what was to come.

Anzac Day 1916 recalls the devastating losses we suffered in the battle of Fromelles and Pozieres in July 1916.

The 5th Division lost 5,533 officers

and men in just 27 hours of battle.

The British General commanding the battle and whose idea it was, sent thousands of Anzac and British soldiers to certain death, and for no demonstrable gain.

Australian officers were relegated to following the orders of their British superiors. Contrary views were not well received.

And yet, despite horrendous losses, the Diggers did their best, stuck together, died together and mourned together.

Forthright Australian Brigadier, Pompey Elliott, said of Fromelles: “The whole operation from beginning to end was so incredibly blundered that it is almost incomprehensible now those who were responsible for it could have consisted of trained professional soldiers of considerable reputation and experience and why any of them was retained in active command�.

Even the British High Command was appalled. Little was known about Fromelles and Pozieres even in England, let alone Australia.

Only the devastating official

notification weeks later that a son, a brother, a husband, a father had died for the Empire.

The Battle of Fromelles and Pozieres, were a debacle and shattered the faith Australian officers and soldiers had held in Brithish Generalship. From then on, while our Diggers retained great respect for their British counterparts, no such assumption could be made for their Generals.

It would be another two years until the Anzacs would prove once and for all in the Battle of Hamel commanded

by Lt General John Monash, just what we could do under sound leadership.

Monash, the man on the $100 note, meticulously planned a decisive battle against the German front line coordinating in minute detail the use of artillery and infantry with tanks and aircraft in the circuit breaking battle of WW1. Using 7,000 Australians (and some US troops for the first time) Monash planned a 90 minute battle.

The capture of the key town of Hamel on the 4th July 1918 was completed in 93 minutes! It was the turning point of WW1. From Hamel, with our

Station St, Penrith Ph. 4732 4777

ANZAC Dawn Service Monday 25th April 2016 at St Marys RSL Club 5.00am (Note: Commences 30 minutes earlier than in past years)

All in the St Marys community are warmly invited to join with members of St Marys RSL Sub-Branch in our Dawn Service to commemorate the continued Centenary of ANZAC. Early arrival is recommended Two large screens with live video of Service.

Those attending are invited to the Club for Breakfast, after the Service.

LEST WE FORGET

We pause with respect to honour those who fought, and those continuing to fight, putting their lives on the line for our great country.

ANZAC Anzac Day is a time to reflect and remember the Australians who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

We shall commemorate the service and the sacrifice made by our men and women for our freedom.

St Marys Town Centre | PO Box 306 St Marys NSW 1790 02 9833 2433 | www.stmarystowncentre.com

AANZAC TRIBUTE Canadian counterparts, the decisive thrust of the 8th August 1918 would lead to the end of WW1.

But the sacrifice, the loss to families, the shattered lives are what we remember today.

In 2016, we commemorate not only the tragedy of Fromelles a century ago; this year we will recognise the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in Vietnam.

50,000 Australians served in Vietnam; 520 gave their lives.

On the 18th August 1966, the biggest single loss of life occurred in the Battle of Long Tan in which D Company 6RAR fought off D445 Provincial VC battalion with a loss of 18 Australians killed, the largest number of casualties in a single action in the Vietnam war. A conservative estimate of 400 enemy killed. As a Commando officer in 1969, I served under Harry Smith SG MC who 3 years earlier had so capably led D Company, 6RAR in the Battle of Long Tan - a truly great Australian who we should particularly recognise this year.

So often I hear people close to me

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies with the Hon Peter Collins AM QC and his wife, Jennine Leonarder-Collins

talk about the military service given by a relative in Army, Navy or RAAF. So often I hear the regretful tone that they didn’t ask enough questions, they didn’t listen, they didn’t learn.

To all of us here today, whether

young or old, let the message be to ask, to listen, to understand. Not to glorify war, but to cherish sacrifice. Not to celebrate victory; but to appreciate loss. Not to reject what it is to wear the uniform of our armed services;

but to respect the deep traditions and responsibilities that go with wearing it.

Thank you for the honour of joining you today.

LEST WE FORGET.

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Hon Colonel 1st Commando Regiment 1995-2000 - Sunday 17th April 2016 St Marys

21

AANZAC TRIBUTE 22 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

The 10 million kids who were never born

By Greg Davies

A

T last Sunday’s pre-Anzac Day march ceremony at St Marys, it was heart-warming to see the amount of people that turned out in the rainy weather to honour those that gave their all in the defence of this country.

I was born a post- Second World War baby in 1951, it was only six years after the end of that war and many of my family, had been involved in the conflict.

Like many others, I had heard tales of heroism and comradeship, what I wasn’t told were the horrors of war as most returning servicemen were happy to be home and did not want to remember the worst of what they faced in the battle.

Having grown up in the sixties I was also aware of the next major battle that Australia took part in; that being the Vietnam War. This was the first war fought on the TV screens, newspapers and radio and it was broadcast directly into our homes.

The one thing that did not change were the tales of those serving - but also the lack of talk about the horrors they faced.

The effect on serving men and women was both traumatic and long lasting. Many of our readers will know exactly what I am talking about and to this day many still are receiving treatment for the nightmares etched into their brain as a result.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the Vets Outpost at St Marys for the work they do day-to-day to assist those still suffering.

But I also want to reflect on our country, Australia and the long term effect war has had - not only on those that fought but also those who were left behind and those that did not have the opportunity to be part of our great country.

In the First World War about 60,000 soldiers perished and a similar number suffered injuries that effected their future and dreams of marriage and raising families, mainly young men who proudly went off to fight for our beliefs and ideals. In the Second World War more than 39,000 Australians suffered the same fate. All in all more than 100,000 service people have been killed between 1899 and today as a result of conflicts, and another similar figure suffered injuries that curtailed any hope of the Australian dream.

Figures show that the average number of children born to families averaged between three and five over this time. Over approximately six Australian generations, if it was only three children unborn to each generation, it means that over 10 million Australian kids did not see the light of day as a direct result of the different fighting. Australia’s population now stands at about 24 million, this could have now been 34 million if it was not for the various conflicts that we still see today.

When we reflect on the courage and strength of those that fought and perished on battlefields, let us also remember those that were left behind, and those that never had the chance to be Members of St Marys Vietnam Veterans born and grow up in this great country.

Outpost, Garry Ayres and Ted Fish Lest we forget.

EVERY GOODBYE IS DIFFERENT

AANZAC TRIBUTE

By Kerrie Davies

I ALWAYS look forward to Anzac Day, it is the day I feel most proud to be an Aussie; the day to give thanks and pay respects to those who selflessly put their lives on the line for our country.

Unfortunately, between the poignant services, the opportunity to shake a digger’s hand and the two-up, one of the highlights of Anzac Day will be missing for me this year.

The highlight I speak of is seeing two good mates, Harry Morfoot and Harry Morfoot Tom Kelly doing their annual collection for legacy at O’Donoghues during two-up.

Two nicer blokes would be hard to find, but sadly, both have now passed on.

It was always wonderful to see how many people threw money into their slouch hats and the joy on their faces at the contributions given was an even greater pleasure to witness.

Tom was relentless with raising funds and received many community awards acknowledging his efforts before succumbing to Mesothelioma, an asbestos - related demon which invaded his right lung.

Tom Kelly

Harry was a retired Police Crown Sergeant, who shared Tom’s passion and battled on collecting funds without his mate until he too, received his calling to leave this earth.

Harry and Tom were instrumental in starting up the Penrith branch of the National Servicemen’s Association (Nashos).

In 2002, Harry and Tom were members of the Blue Mountains branch and they noticed many of the members travelled from Penrith to the Mountains for the monthly meetings.

They began to call meetings in Penrith and received enough support to request a charter from the National Servicemen’s Association to for a Penrith sub-Branch.

The sub-Branch was formed in April 2002 and by 2004 Harry was President and Tom was the Treasurer.

Other good mates of mine in the Nashos, John Taylor and Colin Johnson, say the sub-Branch is a vibrant and highly respected group thanks to the leadership skills of Harry and Tom. The smiling faces of Harry and Tom will sadly not be seen in person again, but the memories they have left behind will always bring a smile to the faces of many.

Lest We Forget.

23 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Beautiful smiling faces that will never be forgotten

Lest We Forget

CITY OF PENRITH RSL SUB-BRANCH Memory Park

DAWN SERVICE 25TH APRIL 5AM TRAFFIC NOTICE Penrith City Centre Road Closures Anzac Day Dawn Service Monday 25th April 2016 The following road closures will be in place in the Penrith City Centre area on the above dates.

ROADS

Closure Time

Opening Time

MONDAY 25TH APRIL High St (between Station & Castlereagh Sts)

3am

7am

High St (between Castlereagh & Lawson Sts) for street march only

3am

7am

Tindale St (between Woodriff & Castlereagh Sts)

3am

7am

Tindale St (Penrith RSL car park entrance)

3am

7am

Masters Car Park ALL access points CLOSED

3am

7am

Union Lane (between Station & Woodriff Sts)

3am

7am

Judges Car Park entrance (Woodriff St only) Note still entrance/exit via Station Street

3am

7am

PENRITH RSL CAR PARK ACCESS

Access to the Penrith RSL Car Park during the above road closure times will be via LETHBRIDGE St entrance/exit for Penrith RSL patrons.

“The ANZAC spirit was born on the shores of Gallipoli on the 25th of April 1915.

We honour the sacrifices of the ANZACS, who fought for our freedoms and values that day.

We also pay tribute to all men and women who have served or are serving in the Australian Armed Forces.

For those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service, we will remember.

Lest we forget.”

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry Ph: 9833 1122 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Seattle Sound: The greatest show in town

By Kerrie Davies

SEATTLE Sound is Sydney’s Number One cover band with a twenty-year history of huge live shows and crowds.

Bringing the flavour of the 90’s grunge era to the stage, their shows are always performed to a packed house - because once you’ve experienced seeing them, you’ll want to grab a crew of like-minded music fan friends and go again and again.

Their music particularly draws audiences full of those in their thirties and forties as it is like seeing all the bands you grew up with in one show. But younger and older audience members are also drawn to the show, because when it comes to raw live local music, these guys are second to none.

The sheer charisma of the lead singer is an attraction itself, his raw energy and ability to sing and deliver perfect versions of hits from a multitude of different bands is something that needs to be seen to be believed.

It all started in the 90’s, when Independent -“Grunge” music took the world by storm and leading the way were Bands from Seattle-USA…Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots and Soundgarden who sold millions of albums worldwide!…..Thus the creation of Seattle Sound!!

Seattle Sound are a NSW Covers Band who formed in 1996 after realising that they could deliver the music of the above mentioned Bands to perfection!

Unlike the many other Cover Bands that were around at the same time, Seattle Sound strived for authenticity and are the only surviving show from that period.

They have proven themselves by their “repeatedly breaking” attendance and bar taking records, which they still, 20 years on, manage to do and constantly provide audiences with full-on live performances that keep punters coming back!

Seattle Sound consists of five very talented musos who not only play music from Seattle, but music that has been influenced by that period.

25 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

The guys are continually updating their set list as to add in the much requested Bands of today, Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Incubus, Live, Nirvana, Kings of Leon, GnR, Mettalica, Goo Goo Dolls, Collective Soul, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fuel, Matchbox 20 plus plenty of other stuff with an everchanging setlist of songs from bands that were from or have been influenced by the Original Seattle Sound Era.

WALLACIA HOTEL | 1590 MULGOA RD, WALLACIA | P: 4773 8888 WALLACIA HOTEL IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY AND PRACTICES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL AT ALL TIMES

ENTERTAINMENT

26 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Gifts for Mum

Get creative these School Holidays with our FREE Activities for the kids TUESDAY 19TH APRIL 11-2PM BADGE MAKING WITH KOZI & PINKY ENTERTAINMENT

MOTHER’S Day will soon be with us so it is a great opportunity to wander down to the Rotary Markets on Sunday, April 24 from 9am to 2pm to pick up that something special for your Mum. There are a variety of stalls including plants, gifts, candles, soaps, towels, jams, cards, jewellery and much more!

You’re sure to find Mum that unique gift that she’ll cherish.

Whilst looking around treat yourself

and your family to a delicious BBQ cooked by the Rotary Club members, have a coffee and listen to a guitarist.

This is a St Marys & Mt Druitt Rotary Clubs joint venture Community Service Project with a Rotary Market at St Marys (Kokoda Park) - Corner of Charles Hackett Drive & Carinya Avenue, St Marys - adjacent to St Marys Village Shopping Centre. Facebook.com/ RotaryMarketsAtStMarys.

Pioneers in petticoats

CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT

THURSDAY 21ST APRIL 11-1PM PLASTER PAINTING FUN CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT Coachman’s Park Cnr Charles Hackett Drive & Queen Street, St Marys

THE Nepean District Historical Society will be hosting the play Pioneers in Petticoats by Wendy Blaxland, on Saturday 30 April at 2pm at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum, Emu Plains.

The play brings alive Mary Bryant, a First Fleet convict who escaped the colony in 1791; Fanny Macleay who emigrated in 1826, the eldest of six unmarried daughters of the Colonial Secretary; Eliza Hawkes, who at eleven and a half survived the crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1822; and Lola Montez, a woman who refused

to be confined by social rules. She performed her Spider Dance at the Ballarat goldfields in the 1850s and publicly horse-whipped an editor who belittled her work.

Devonshire Teas and a tour of the Inn will also be available.

Tickets $30.00 adult, $25 concession/ child: www.blaxlandanddaughter.com Call 13 28 49 or https://www.trybooking.com/ Booking/BookingEventSummary. aspx?eid=174502 For more information call 0438 241 126.

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

By Keegan Thomson

with Reverend Ross Hutchison

YOU CAN’T LOSE FROM LEARNING!

“Everyone I’ve spoken to has said how relatable the characters are.

Ultimately the play is about beauty and everyone wants to feel beautiful in their lives,” Mr. Brown said.

Angela Pezzano, the lead actress in the play, said audiences should expect a new look on the classic heartwarming story.

“The play will still explore the same themes but it will be set up in a different way. We’ve taken our inspiration mainly from the play rather than the film,” She said.

She drew comparisons between working with a team in the production and the fictional family she plays a part in.

To win a double pass to see My Big Fat Greek Wedding head over to Nepean News facebook page competition details. The winners will be drawn on Tuesday April 26 and will be contacted on facebook.

“The best thing about the play is we end up feeling like the big family we are all supposed to be playing. The cast, the crew, the whole team comes together in some big communal way,” Ms. Pezzano said.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding will commence its run of shows on May 6 at the John Lees Centre in Penrith.

The only thing you must be sure to do is be there!

Right in the middle of the action!

You can’t “phone it in”... or.... “pass on it,” Be the difference in the life you wish to live.

But you must be there!

Smack-dab in the middle of It! Don’t miss one second of it.

Write a list and make big of the things that are good in your life.

If there are things that are not good in your life, don’t give them any breath or even a thought.

Grab hold of the sparkling parts of your life until they become the “norm”.

Life is about the achievements and progress of today, to ensure getting the best out of tomorrow.

Today has the opportunity to grow! And set new standards in everything you do.

Go for it!

Life is all about doing and learning.

And you can’t lose from learning!

Cheers for now, Your Mate, Rossco

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Heavens Above

My Big Fat Greek Wedding comes to Penrith A PLAY with a familiar name, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, is coming to Penrith and is sizing up to be a mustsee show.

Starring a largely local supporting cast, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, takes apart the familiar film and delivers a vividly different theatre experience for all audience members.

To many people’s surprise, My Big Fat Greek Wedding was originally a one-woman-play written by Nia Vardalos and was only produced into a feature film after Tom Hanks, the film’s producer saw her performing.

The cast and crew of My Big Fat Greek Wedding want to recreate the intimate and unguarded atmosphere that Nia Vardalos created in her original production whilst adding a bit of a new feel to it.

Anthony Brown, the play’s director, is offering up his interpretation of the story by giving the audience a twist on the familiar film.

“I’ve added a few things into the show that aren’t in the original production. We’ve put a lot of Greek dancing in between scenes to add a new flavour to it all,” Mr Brown said.

He also said the story and the characters are relatable no matter what your background.

27

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28

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

All-time favourite fairytale with a difference RAPUNZEL, by the Brothers Grimm, is an interesting and iconic tale.

Locally-based production group, the Acting Factory is turning this fairy-tale on its head. The Grimm story is interesting for a myriad of reasons, not the least of which is that it introduces the common folk to a lot of stereotypes.

Many of these stereotypes have influenced ideas which people commonly criticise in modern day.

The princess is an archetype which you see in every second Disney movie, every second video game, every second superhero movie. Why is it so prevalent?

The answer is simple; in modern media we need to start representing women as fully fleshed-out characters rather than a prize. What if Rapunzel found her strength and didn’t need to rely on a hero to save her?

The benign king? Of course everyone has their faults. But the most important thing is striving to better yourself, to become a better person, a better leader and a better father.

The Acting Factory’s king will blow you away with a three-dimensional character attempting to better himself at every turn in order to be worthy of his title.

What about Prince Charming? The

Acting Factory’s Prince Charming - or should we say Prince “Notso” Charming - is a blundering selfimportant idiot.

In order to save the day, he must learn humility, as well as learn how to treat a lady, in order to become the true Prince Charming.

And the witch, Gothel - let’s just say that she has the biggest journey of all, learning to laugh and love through the play.

The cast includes Rapunzel – Krystie Grubba; Prince “Notso” Charming – Wombat GT; Gothel – Sari Hickey; King Frederick – Robert Gray. Written and directed

by Mitchell Rist. The production is generously hosted by Mamre House – where heritage embraces the future.

Rapunzel is a very ordinary story.

Let the Acting Factory make it extraordinary for you.

Two shows per day at: 11.00 am and

1.30 pm.

From Wednesday April 20 to Sunday 24 April 2016.

Tickets $12 each. Groups of 6 and more pay only $10 each. Children under two years – free.

Tickets will also be available at the “door”.

Mamre House, Mamre Road St Clair.

In case of wet weather – the show will go on inside.

Disband: A fresh new look on rock n roll

By Keegan Thomson

FAMILY can quite often be a great foundation for an uncompromising rock ’n’ roll collective, and one of the finest new examples of this is the Sultana cousins and their band, Disband.

The Sultana cousins, Ben Sultana the lead singer and guitarist and DJ Sultana the drummer, backed up by Erin Greenway on keyboard and James Molloy the bass player, are producing some of the grooviest alternative rock ‘n’ roll around.

If B.B. King and John Lee Hooker made an album with Queens of the Stone Age then you’d have the music of Disband.

This eclectic mix of blues guitar rhythms, alt-rock melodies and hard rock drums is inspired by the band’s wide and far reaching music tastes.

James Molloy said, “We all like different bands and different genres and we try to bring those influences into our music. You can hear a bunch of different things, we’ve got a bit of prog, a bit of blues. It reflects our personality.”

DJ told us that Disband’s current line up came about last year when DJ and Ben were jamming in between band practice.

“We were a part of a metal band called Regrets After All when we just decided to jam together in between breaks. I never used to play drums so I jumped on and it felt like a natural transition for me. Ben jumped behind the mic and we had something going,” DJ said.

Erin Greenway suggested the reason why the band works so well is because as mates they all get along like a house on fire.

“All four of us are friends and as a band we are a bunch of mates just

hanging out, doing stuff and we just happen to write music together as well,” Erin said.

The four members of Disband have been recording and performing together as the current lineup for the past year and are currently in the studio warming up and getting ready to record brand new music.

James said the whole recording process feels pretty organic.

“We come together with a few ideas and because we all listen to different genres the ideas we all bring in are

very different but everyone builds upon each other’s ideas and all it melts together,” he said.

Disband are currently recording their debut EP and hope to have it out before the middle of the year.

If you’re a local Western Sydney band and you want your story told email keegan@nepeannews.com.au and we’ll get in touch.

29 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

WORD SEARCH

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

SONGS WITH GIRLS’ NAMES ADIA ALISON AMANDA ANGIE BARBARA ANN BETH BILLIE JEAN BRANDY CANDIDA CARRIE ANNE

CECILIA CLAIR DELILAH DELTA DAWN DIANA ELEANOR RIGBY ELVIRA GLORIA JOANNA JOLENE

KYRIE LAYLA LITTLE JEANNIE LUCILLE MAGGIE MAY MANDY MICHELLE MY SHARONA NIKITA OH SHERRIE

PEGGY SUE RHIANNON ROSANNA ROXANNE RUBY TUESDAY SARA SHERRY SUSIE Q SUZANNE SWEET CAROLINE

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

30

SOLUTION: 4th April

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Gorgeous (9) 6 The air above us (5) 9 Perfect or symmetrical (7) 10 Make rough (7) 11 Peeled (7) 12 Uncultured (7) 13 Assortment (9) 15 Cowboy sport (5) 16 Permeate (5) 19 Steep cliff (9) 22 A very large cactus (7) 23 Boldly resistant (7) 25 Strange or rare objects (7) 26 Hens (7) 27 Pale yellowish hair color (5) 28 Egg-shaped vegetables (9)

DOWN 1 Foundation (5) 2 One who does not believe in God (7) 3 A city in Ontario Canada (7) 4 Placed in folders (5) 5 Profitable (9) 6 Splash or sprinkle (7) 7 Alternatively (7) 8 A sedimentary rock (9) 13 A woman priest (9) 14 Perverse (9) 17 Mountainous wild sheep (7) 18 Extreme gluttony (7) 20 Heathen (7) 21 From Italy (7) 23 Locate and correct programming errors (5) 24 Examinations (5)

solution 7/4/16

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Continuation of the

“Wagon Wheel Hotel”

I

N 1959, Tom Fitzpatrick writing his column “The Biz” is an historic place. It was from these grounds that the at Fairfield said that he saw Nick Devery who was historic expedition of Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson Mine Host at the Wagon Wheel Hotel and commented commenced their trek over the mountains” (Note: this that Nick had been Mine Host of the “Cabramatta Hotel” turned out to be wrong information and continued to back in the mid forties (1942) and later he went to the be taken as true for many years). It was the start of the “Royal” at Camden (1945) before moving to St Marys woollen industry in 1792 (Again, wrong information as and he stated that “He knows the hotel game inside out the first land grant at St Marys was to Samuel Marsden does Nick, and he was a prominent member of Cabra in 1804). We can lend it (park) beauty and it can become Vale A.L.P. when in that district”. Actually, Nick was a tourist attraction. In the present day (1959) it can be a known as the ‘Perambulating Publican’ because of the big thing for the young people of the district”. Nick then fact that he held many hotel licences in NSW staying introduced the deputation from the Union Cricket Club only for a few years before moving on. In 1940 when who he said had the full support and co-operation of the he was leaving the “Union Hotel” at Gosford, it was Nepean District Cricket Association. Mr R Lee replied recorded that “one of the most popular licensees the that something should be done for the boys of the district hotel had ever had will be leaving Gosford with his as the Penrith boys already used a turf wicket and the St wife and their little son in September to take over the Nick Devery from the Camden Marys’ boys were lacking in many things and the cricket control of the “Hotel Mansions” at King’s Cross”. Nick club would do whatever it could, but at the moment News November 1952 had come to Gosford two years earlier and made a host the grounds were in bad order but if a turf wicket was of friends at the hotel where he earned a reputation locally as a ‘good installed it would be an acquisition to the district. Tom Rance who was citizen’ and a ‘good sport’ and a quietly generous helper of worthy the secretary of the Nepean District Cricket Association said that the causes. He had shown abundant faith in the future of the Gosford district grass on the park was killed with chemicals used to demonstrate fire and had done a lot to boost its tourist attractions by novel advertising fighting during the war. He paid a high tribute to the committee that had schemes, and in a quiet way he had become successful in advertising been set up to control the boys’ club at St Marys and expected 12 to 14 the district’s products. He supplied a number of cases of oranges with cricket clubs to be operating in St Marys. Alderman Reddan said that orders amounting to a surprising total and also had the knack for the the Council had decided to level the grounds and asked Tom if he would need to look after the tourist and travellers to the district. Nick was be working under the Nepean District Cricket Association and would also responsible for a number of innovations designed to provide for they accept the responsibility on Tom’s behalf? Also would Tom sponsor those travellers’ comfort and convenience at the hotel, and with him the the St Marys’ boys and conduct their sport? Tom said “We cannot say duty and the responsibility of the hotel license decidedly did not begin that Nepean District Cricket Association will be responsible, but I am and end in building bar trade. When they first secured a hotelkeeper’s secretary and the boys’ club committee is right up to the mark. That I license, Nick and his wife set out to provide service for the public know because I am on the committee and this boys’ club is going right with the emphasis on the accommodation side of the business. Tom ahead”. Alderman Dwyer asked that if a turf wicket was put in wouldn’t Fitzpatrick wrote before in his column in 1956 the following article on it be better to stop pedestrians from crossing it? The deputation replied Nick and the Wagon Wheels “Pub” – “Out St Marys way the other day, that because of the old council road the fence was pulled down but that it I noticed that Nick Devery mine host had changed the name of his hotel was necessary to have one (on the park). Alderman Blair said that there from the “Park View” to the ‘Wagon Wheels.” Got the right idea has must be rails and seating accommodation. Alderman Fowler replied that Nick, formerly of the Cabramatta Hotel and more recently of the Royal the maintenance costs of a turf wicket was “heavy’ and the Council had at Camden. St Marys was the home of the wagon and coach building an agreement with the Nepean District Cricket Association that they industry, the name of Bennett on South Creek being famous throughout maintain the wicket there and would the deputation do the same and Australia. Nick, in keeping with the name has also introduced some they replied “Yes, certainly.” The Mayor then thanked the deputation novel decorations out of old wagon wheels. Nice to see a change from for their attendance and Nick thanked the Mayor for receiving them. the old everyday names of Royal, Commercial, Tattersall’s, Railway, Alderman Fowler then went on to say that there were two ways a deal etc”. In 1959 Nick was also involved when a proposal was presented could be made - to raise a loan of £5,000 to put down a turf wicket and to the Penrith Municipal Council for a turf wicket at St Marys. Nick general improvements or - to put £1,600 on the estimates for construction introduced a deputation from St Marys that asked Council to lay down of a turf wicket. The Engineer in reply to the question said that £3,000 a turf wicket in Victoria Park. He said that 88 years ago the St Marys’ would provide a turf wicket and the necessary water installations but no Union Cricket Club had been formed making it one of the oldest cricket seating. The loan of £5,000 would provide for improvements required. clubs in the southern hemisphere and the deputation offered the same The motion of the Council was “carried” for the turfing at Victoria Park. co-operation that was given by the Nepean District Cricket Association and they (the deputation) would provide an avenue of Jacarandas and Lyn Forde – Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society plant shrubs which council can select. Nick went on to say “This park Inc. TO BE CONTINUED....

33 Nepean NewsNews 19 February Nepean 21 April 2015 2016 Issue 143 173

nepeanhistory nepean

34

finance and real estate matters

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Low interest rates bad for savers and retired people With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

THE financial world we now live within Australia has changed a lot since the Global Financial Crisis that started in 2008. Our great country and economy is now permanently connected to the global markets whether we like it or not.

The western world (including Australia) is stuck in this low growth and low inflation situation. Every government around the world has been trying numerous standard exotic ways (printing money etc) to try to increase growth and confidence with little or no success.

This writing has been “on the wall” now for many years and we all have to adjust to the new world order.

Part of the new order is low interest rates for home borrowers and even lower rates for savers. Low interest rates for borrowers makes headlines, encourages property purchasing and investment in housing and helps

confidence as some people with home loans think they are spending less on the repayments.

The big losers are the savers and the retired people who need interest income to help support themselves.

Banks are paying very small rates of interest from zero to about 2 percent if you are smart enough to shop around.

With inflation around 2 percent, you need to earn over that rate to make any gain. If you only get 2 per cent in interest, then you are only just keeping the value of the money stable.

If you are retired and drawing on the principal to survive, then your kitty will inevitably be reduced over time.

Some like to invest in the share market to receive higher returns. It is easy to make good returns when the stock market is increasing but the Australia stock market (usually measured by the ASX 200 index) has been on a downward trend for some time with little signs of recovering in the short term.

Unless you are a professional investor who watches the market

SELECT

each day and is up to date with all the market news and trends, it is extremely hard to make a good profit unless you are very lucky of course.

In these uncertain financial times, it is smart to have a small percentage of your money invested in hard assets that can’t be wiped out in a stock market crash or correction. Traditional hard assets include land fine art, fine wine, gold and silver bullion or bars.

Fine art and wine are not easy to invest in unless you an expert in these fields.

What is easy to invest in is gold and silver bullion. You can invest in small amounts and a small proportion of the funds from reputable dealers like ABC Bullion in Sydney quite easily.

As people lose faith and trust in the traditional methods of investing in banks accounts, term deposits, shares and fixed income products, more and more people will turn to the historic true holder of value and wealth of gold and silver. Have a look at their website www.abcbullion.com.au for more information.

The other hard asset that Aussies

love is property of course - for many reasons. One of the main reasons property continues to be stable with good returns in the long term as the basic requirement that people need is a place to live. While the population continues to grow, underlying demand for accommodation close to our big cities will support the underlying demand.

The difference with shares is that people don’t need shares to live but they need a place to live.

This information is of a general nature and you should seek the advice of reputable financial adviser who will take your situation including your appetite for risk, age and goals into account. Be warned though as a lot of financial advisers are trained to sell the standard financial products only and don’t look outside the box.

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.

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

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All your real estate questions answered, with Darren Latty ~ darren@prd.net.au

Will I ever be able to get on the property ladder?

THE average age of first home buyers has been on the rise for some time now and we are constantly bombarded with headlines about house prices increasing and home ownership being impossible. It’s not!

I’m not saying it’s easy either, but by thoroughly exploring all options and then committing to your goal, it can be done.

1. You don’t HAVE to have a 20% deposit 20% is the golden deposit figure that buyers always hear. In fact you can borrow much more than 80% but your repayments will be higher and you will have to pay mortgage

lenders insurance. Obviously avoiding this is preferable, but if you’re renting and house prices are rising sharply in your target area you may be better off getting in sooner rather than later.

2. Accept help (gracefully!)

Unfortunately we’re not all in a position to get help from our parents, but if it’s possible to live with them and pay little or no rent while you save you’ll get there much faster. If you’re very lucky they may also be able to act as guarantors on your loan.

3. Prepare for sacrifices It can be hard to switch to a saving budget, but forgoing some nights out, big holidays or that new car now will

reap rewards in the future. Having said that, be realistic - don’t strip back so much that you can’t stick to your plan.

4. Consider buying off the plan Buying a new build can have lots off benefits for first time buyers. You’ll be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant of $10,000 and won’t have to pay stamp duty. Plus, you’ll typically only need 10% deposit to secure your place. The lag time between paying your deposit and completion gives you have more time to budget and save and you will have locked in a price in today’s market. There also tax benefits that can be spread throughout the year, which can help with those repayments.

5. Future proof yourself. Getting in to the market as early as you can is great, you’ll build up equity in your property which will allow you to buy more. BUT make sure you can cover yourself if the economic climate changes – could you cope if interest rates rose? Or if you lost your job and had to cover the mortgage for a month or two?

To find out more about buying your first property book a place at our ‘Planning to be an homeowner’ event on 24th May 2016 by emailing sophie@prd.net.au. Don’t wait too long, places are limited and the last event was fully booked!

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Improving Blake downplays pressure on Whare

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

PENRITH Panthers centre Waqa Blake played what many believe could be a breakout performance in the young star centre’s NRL career, in last night’s gritty win over the Sydney Roosters.

In what was without doubt his most productive game to date in 2016 (a line-break, one try, 118 metres and four tackle-breaks), Blake credits his improved form to having successfully completed pre-season training as well as having the opportunity to play each week in his preferred position at right centre in Whare’s absence.

“Obviously in my rookie year last year I didn’t have a pre-season,” Blake said.

“But this year having a pre-season has allowed me to work on being professional with everything I do and it’s definitely helped playing with the boys.”

“While I want to be able to play everywhere and not just play in the one spot, I definitely love playing in the centres and that’s going to help my development.”

Blake said scoring his first try for 2016, a scorching 45m effort off a sublime Isaah Yeo offload, was a surreal feeling as he admitted it’s been sometime since he had broken the line

Waqa Blake has been one of Penrith’s most improved players thus far in 2016. Credit 77 Media.

and scored, before adding that most of the credit should belong to Yeo. “I’ve never been in that position (this year),” Blake said.

“I haven’t been the one to make linebreaks but tonight I did and I just my best and went over.”

“He (Yeo) did most of the work.”

“It was a well-constructed play with him and Bryce. I was just there at the right place at the right time.”

But it was his defence (27 tackles) that was arguably even more pleasing given the Roosters threw plenty of traffic down Penrith’s right edge defence of Cartwright (44 tackles), Martin (27 tackles) and himself.

Their ability to handle the defensive

workload according to Blake was reflective of the work done on defence in pre-season.

“We knew they were come at us hard and yeah it was really a tough night on our edge,” Blake confirmed.

“But we’ve been working tough on our defence all pre-season.”

“We don’t want to be like last year where we were that team that was really soft and just gave up near the end.”

But despite his strong showing against the Roosters, Blake still feels Whare deserves to resume his place in the team at right centre when he returns from injury, which is expected to be as early as Round Nine.

COACH’S CORNER

“Personally I think I’ve been up and down still and I have a lot of work to do,” Blake explained.

“Deano he’s been there with me even though he’s been injured.”

“I look up to him and he helps me out a lot.”

While Blake isn’t confident of holding his spot, his coach, Anthony Griffin is more than happy with his form admitting that the centre will provide yet another selection headache in coming weeks.

“He’s been doing a great job for us there Waqa,” Griffin stated.

“Waqa’s been one of our better players the last few weeks so he’s earning his spot every week.”

But for now, Blake is looking forward to Sunday’s big clash in the Shire against one of the competition’s better sides, Cronulla who are coming off a big 40-16 away win over Canberra, stating it will definitely be a tough test for a team that still needs to improve on last night’s showing.

“I think they’re going really good especially after that big win against the Raiders,” Blake said.

“For us it’s just a matter of getting our focus back and cover what we’ve done wrong and get ready for the next game.”

“We’re not where we need to be yet.”

“It’s still a long way (off) but we think took a step in the right direction tonight.”

BROCK SHEPPERD NRL Level 3 High Performance Rugby League Coach Masters of Coach Education, Sydney University Listen in to the Fifth and Last NRL Podcast, available every Wednesday in the Podcast App, iTunes and on audioBoom b.shepperd@hotmail.com

OVER COACHING AND OVER PARENTING IN JUNIOR SPORTS

FIRSTLY I would implore all parents and coaches involved in junior sport to watch the following HBO documentary: https://vimeo.com/108600855 It should provoke some thoughts and opinions in regards to how parents and coaches approach junior sport.

What importance should we place on winning in junior sport? Shouldn’t development and enjoyment be our sole focus?

The majority of winter junior sporting competitions have or are about to commence. This should be a very exciting time for all children involved. However this enjoyment is often hijacked by a ‘win at all cost’ mentality from some parents and coaches involved at the junior level. Unfortunately this selfish mentality often ruins the dreams and love of sport for young athletes who just want to participate and play with their friends.

Coaching should be all about ensuring the players are enjoying themselves and learning as much as possible. If the players are learning and succeeding in the skills and drills they are practicing they are more likely to enjoy their sporting experience and therefore continue to play the game. Training should be structured and designed in order to meet these

simple needs of junior players regardless of the sport in which they are participating.

We have all come across the junior coach who treats game day like a professional match. If you are that coach ask yourself: How much control do you have over the result once the game commences? Little, if any. With that said and as hard as it can be, you need to place zero emphasis and importance on the results your team achieves each weekend. The challenge for coaches is to ensure competition and competitiveness is created internally within your team environment.

This takes the emphasis off winning and losing each weekend. Ask yourself two simple questions in order to evaluate your training sessions and game results: Did the players enjoy themselves? Are the players learning and improving both individually and as a team? If you can honestly answer yes to both questions you are doing an outstanding job. As a coach measure yourself on the development and improvement of your players.

We have all come across the parent who is constantly discontented in the style of coaching, results of the team and the individual success of their child. The parent who will constantly shout instructions and feedback to the team during games or bark at the

referee for certain decisions. If you are that parent ask yourself: What example am I setting for my child and is the behaviour I am displaying appropriate for the junior sport environment?

At the junior level it is the growth of individual players which will naturally improve each team.

As a parent do not place unrealistic expectations on your child. Make sure you set a good example by encouraging each and every player in the team.

Support the players and encourage them to have fun, listen to their coach, respect the referee, learn as much as possible and to place zero emphasis on results.

Allow the players to play, the coaches to coach and the referees to referee. As a role model for your child your job as a parent is to be supportive and set the right example.

The focus of parents and coaches involved within junior sport should be to teach young athletes the importance of a strong work ethic, the ability to have fun, to build positive relationships with their team mates and coaches and also their willingness to listen and learn. If these positive habits and behaviours can be instilled within players from a young age the platform is going to be laid for the best possible future both in sport and in life.

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37 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

penrith panthers celebrating 50 years

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penrith panthers celebrating 50 years

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Sports Scenes

(With Thanks to 77 Media)

In the latest edition of Sports Scenes, the camera lenses of Andrew Farrell from 77 Media was on hand for the epic Panthers v Cowboys clash at Pepper Stadium

As was this Panthers fan!

The Pantherettes were pumped for the clash with JT’s Cowboys

Te Maire Martin could have easily been playing alongside JT, instead he’s playing against him.

Highly underrated back-rower Isaah Yeo charges into the defence

Each week Bryce Cartwright continues to show why he could earn a “Blues” jersey in 2016.

BARRIER RISE with Tony Brassel Tony Brassel is one of the most respected judges of horseflesh in the country. He is a form expert and racing analyst with SKY Racing and radio 2KY and has now joined the Nepean News’ stable of quality journalists.

Despite Lachlan Coote’s two try savers on Josh Mansour, all is forgiven after the game as the two former team-mates share a laugh

STRATURBO: Gary Portelli’s sprinter worked on both turbos in winning his 799m trial at Randwick on April 15 and ran a smart 47 secs in winning his heat.

Will be ready to go when he appears.

ONCE MORE A LADY: Unraced Congrats filly which led them a merry dance in winning 800m trial in 46 secs flat – easily the fastest time of the sessions at Randwick on April 15. Ready to run.

BALTIC WHISPER and TACTICAL ADVANTAGE: Fought on finish in a 800m Randwick trial on April 15. They showed pace to be with the leaders and then came away at the serious end, running smart time.

FURNACES: Godolphin’s colt looks set to make a big impact in the Brisbane carnival going on this impressive stroll around over 800m at Randwick on April 15. Never out of second gear in finishing fast closing 3rd in solid time.

BADAJOZ: Another of the Godolphin string which impressed in the Randwick 800m trial on April 15.Shared the lead under a strong hold throughout yet still put the trip behind him in 47.10 seconds.

PACEMAN: Jason Coyle’s aptly named youngster made all the running to win untouched in a Warwick Farm trial on April 1 when scooting over 800m. He beat Badajoz that day. Don’t miss this bloke.

Yet to hit form: Dallin Watene-Zelezniak

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

IN what is perhaps an ominous warning to the rest of the NRL, young Penrith winger Dallin WateneZelezniak says he isn’t entirely happy with his 2016 form.

The young Panther says that despite scoring three tries in the last two games including a double against the defending premiers, his form in 2016 has so far failed to hit the heights reached before a lung condition prematurely ended his 2015 season.

But the Kiwi winger, who has averaged 17 runs for 173 metres in the last two games, with seven tacklebreaks, two line-breaks and an offload for good measure, refuses to use his health issue as an excuse for his self-perceived indifferent start to the season.

“I’m a bit scratchy at the moment coming back from this lung (issue) but there’s no excuses for myself,” Dallin explained. “(My lung) is getting there and it’s not really a problem anymore.”

“Getting back to where I was is the hardest thing so I’ve just got to put

DWZ in action against the Eels, is in the mix again for a Kiwi test debut in 2016. Credit 77 Media.

my head down and work harder and try and get back to where my form was.”

Watene-Zelezniak, who has been selected to play for New Zealand on two previous occasions only to be ruled out through injury and suspension, once again finds himself in the mix for the upcoming test

against Australia.

But the Kiwi winger says playing his best for the Panthers is currently his number one priority as he looks to find a way of helping his team learn to close out games. “(Test selection) is up to the selectors and coach,” Dallin said.

“If that opportunity comes I’ll be

humbled and grateful to take it but (right now) I’m working on playing the best I can for the Panthers.”

“We’ve shot ourselves (throughout the year) in the foot at times and it’s pretty frustrating (losing these tight games) but it’s something we can work on because there’s worse scenarios than what we’ve had so it’s not all too bad.”

The win over the Roosters represents the first time Penrith have won back-to-back on the road since Round 21-22, 2014 and completes the first of what is an arduous sixweek period before Panthers return to Pepper Stadium in Round 11 against the Titans.

Given the Panthers won just three games away from Pepper Stadium in 2015, their 2016 finals hopes could well hinge on the number of games they can win on the road during this crucial period, a fact not lost on Watene-Zelezniak.

“It’s very important we stay focused going into this period,” Dallin said.

“Obviously we need to get a few wins and going away from home is a challenge but it’s a challenge we’re willing to take and back ourselves.”

Soward’s plea to Griffin: Play all five of us

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

HAVING produced one of his best kicking games in recent memory to lead Penrith to a hard-fought 20-16 win over the Sydney Roosters in the wet and slippery conditions at Allianz Stadium, Panthers halfback Jamie Soward hopes coach Anthony Griffin will persevere with both Martin and Wallace, when James Segeyaro returns from injury, most likely to be in Round 9.

“Wal’s (Wallace) been controlling things at dummy half while Chicko’s (Segeyaro) been out and I like to think I’ve been controlling the kicking game so for us T’s (Martin) been able to just go out there and play some footy and enjoy himself at the moment,” Soward stated.

“I know he’s been playing good and doing his job (Martin) and I’d love to have all five of us in the team (Moylan, Martin, himself, Wallace and Segeyaro) if we’re playing well but we’ll just have to wait and see what’s best for the team.”

“That’s why Hook (coach Anthony Griffin) gets paid to make those decisions.”

Soward’s long kicking game in the first half was replaced by a brilliant short kicking game at the back-end of the second half which allowed the Panthers to finally close out for a win

Jamie Soward says he’s more than happy with his form thus far in 2016. Credit 77 Media.

for their first time in 2016, having previously been involved in several heart-stopping, agonising losses.

But despite last night’s much needed victory over former club Sydney Roosters, the often maligned playmaker says there is still much for the team to improve on especially in regards to putting the opposition away when playing from in front.

“We’ve got to continue what we’re

doing by putting ourselves into positions to win games so that we can then close them out,” Soward said. “(Until now) we have put ourselves into winning positions from the 1st minute through to the 80th minute but it just been a matter of not been able to close them out how we wanted to.” “(Where we sit at the moment) is probably a reflection of what we deserve at the moment and if we don’t

(keep) getting better then it’s going to continue being an up and down year.”

After having a season to forget in 2015, Soward admitted that his 2016 form can be attributed to being in a much happier space off the field as well as confirming that based on current form he’ll be seeing out his Panthers contract which ends at the end of 2017.

“I’ve definitely made some changes.

I have a new missus and we’re very happy together,” Soward said.

“I’ve been enjoying life a bit more and I think it’s reflected in the way I’m playing my footy at the moment.”

“I’m quite comfortable with the way I’m going and yep (happy to see out next year with the Panthers).”

The Panthers half’s love of all things sports-related especially the Western Sydney Wanderers (where he is an ambassador) and NBA Basketball team, Boston Celtics also helps keep him relaxed between games and is looking forward to the weeks ahead as both his teams pursue finals glory.

“It’s a good chance for me to unwind,” Soward said.

“The Wanderers have got the week off and I’ve been texting a few of the boys there to make sure they’re good to go as they play in the semi-final which is on the same day as us.”

“Hopefully they make the GF so I can try and get to the game.” “(As for Boston), we play Atlanta in the first round of the playoffs.”

39 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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penrith panthers celebrating 50 years

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

MG ON THE MARK

WITH MARK GEYER

QUEENSLAND: GREAT ONE YEAR, PERFECT THE NEXT WITH seven rounds in the books, what have we learnt from the opening quarter of this 26 game NRL season? I’ll tell you what I’ve learnt.

Brisbane and North Queensland are playing better footy then they were last year!

Which is scary for the other 14 teams looking set to try and take up the other six spots of finals footy, even from this far out from the finish line.

The Cowboys have learnt to win without Jonathan Thurston playing a leading role. Scary.

The Broncos have picked up where they left off last year but this year the MILF has awoken. Anthony Milford has quickly become the most exciting NRL player in the comp. He’s only 21. Scary.

It’s already shaping as an all Queensland grand final yet again as these two teams north of the border continue to play exciting and dominate rugby league.

Next best- if these two above mentioned teams are to have any competition where will it come from?

Again, these are long-range forecasts as anything can happen in footy and usually does - but the Sharks and Eels seem the two teams most likely.

The Sharks have been predicted by many to be at least in this years top eight but with so much strike power and experience it could be the year of the Shark.

The Eels, well where does one start when beginning with the sentence “The Eels..,”. It should be to talk about a resurgent footy side bursting with an entire new footy formula which is a total joy to watch.

On the other side of the coin this big black cloud hovering overhead called ‘Salary Cap’ just won’t decimate.

Let’s hope the off-field saga quickly ends so the on-field boys can continue with their jobs.

Next column we will take a look at those teams who have their work cut out for them already this season, and who has been the buy off the year.

And another thing...

As it nears I thought I’d be one of the hundreds to give their NSW team that will hopefully end this total domination by the Canetoads forever!

Of course we’re all usually a long way off the team that will be picked but this is my 17 I’d like Laurie to at least consider for Origin 1 here in Sydney.

1. James Tedesco 2. Josh Mansour 3. Michael Jennings 4. James Roberts 5. Josh Morris 6. James Maloney 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Andrew Fifita

Anthony Milfold; Broncos Michael Morgan; Cowboys

9. Nathan Peats 10. James Tamou 11. Greg Bird 12. Beau Scott 13. Paul Gallen 14. David Klemmer 15. Trent Merrin 16. Jack Bird 17. Bryce Cartwright *quickest centres ever to play together in origin * Jack Bird as my utility * I’ve gone with Cartwright over Josh Jackson because NSW have to score points. * Nathan Peats as my hooker *Tedesco as my fullback but I think Matt Moylan will feature somewhere in this year’s series.

MG (random Westie) OAM

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penrith panthers celebrating 50 years

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

REPEAT SETS WITH STEW MOSES

@THERIFFMARN

A VALUABLE WIN AS TOUGH GAMES LOOM FOR PENRITH A HAPPY end to what was looming as another frustrating fortnight of results for Panther fans, when the “Cardiac Kids” finally found a way to close out a game for a 20-16 win in the Allianz Stadium wet against the Sydney Roosters.

But they will have lamented the fact they didn’t finish off the job the week before, going down 2318 to the defending premiers, North Queensland in front a healthy crowd of 13,725 at Pepper Stadium.

It was arguably Penrith’s best performance of the season yet had nothing to show for it, despite recording their best completion rate and making made their fewest number of errors and missed tackles.

But while coach Anthony Griffin praised his team for that effort, he lamented how lapses in concentration in defence proved critical.

“I thought we played with a lot of purpose and energy,” Griffin said. “(But) we had a couple of key defensive lapses in us late in both halves and we paid the penalty for that again against a really good side.”

“It’s frustrating and it hurts but if we were getting beat 40 nil it would hurt more.”

Penrith dominating the opening exchanges to lead 10 nil with last week’s match-winner, Bryce Cartwright instrumental in both tries scored by Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.

But the Cowboys dominated possession in the second twenty of the first half to lead 12-10 at the break.

An unusually sloppy and undisciplined start to the second half by the Cowboys soon allowed the Panthers to regain the lead through a try to Trent Merrin.

That lead was soon extended the lead to six courtesy of a Jamie Soward penalty goal with 18 minutes remaining but as often has been the case in 2016, the Panthers were made to pay for their inability to put the game out of Cowboys reach.

A converted try to another ex-Panther Gavin Cooper in the 66th minute ensured that once again the game was in the balance going into the final ten minutes before Coote’s field goal broke the deadlock.

While Penrith had their chances to win or at least level the scores in the closing minutes, the Cowboys put the game beyond doubt with a Kyle Feldt try in the last play of the game that again exposed Penrith’s left edge defence.

Leilani Latu in action against the Cowboys made 222 metres against the Roosters on Monday night. Credit 77 Media

THE Panthers at least had nine days to stew over that defeat and put things right against a side whose season is fast slipping away.

Like Penrith, the Roosters have also been unable to close out games having come into this fixture having lost three games by four points or less.

Griffin’s decision to drop Jeremy Latimore for Tyrone Peachey and start with Leilani Latu in lieu of Sam McKendry paid off big time as Latu made an incredible 222 metres from 21 runs to more than double his season output.

If Leilani Latu was man of the match then Jamie Soward was a whisker behind, having produced a kicking master-class in the wet as his long kicks forced the Roosters into repeated errors in the first half, before tries to Watene-Zelezniak and Te Maire Martin enabled the Panthers to lead 14-10 at the break.

A scintillating 45m try to Waqa Blake off a sublime Yeo offload early in the second half pushed the Panthers out to the biggest lead of the match before the Roosters conjured up a second try for Latrell Mitchell with some razzle-dazzle play on the last tackle to set up yet another nerve-wracking finish for Panther fans with the game in the balance at 20-16.

But that man Soward stood tall in the final ten minutes with a short kicking game that prevented the Roosters from gaining that one last attacking opportunity on a Panthers side that was fast-tiring in the wet, with four repeated forced line drop-outs.

The performances of Waqa Blake and Peter Wallace will provide Griffin with some welcome headaches as he prepares to welcome back Dean Whare and James Segeyaro provided the Panthers can (touch wood) remain injury free.

“I think they’re close and I’m not playing games with you but I think it will probably be the week

after,” Griffin confirmed.

“I think we’re all clean at this stage which is good.”

“We’ll dust ourselves off and get on with the week.”

HOWEVER it looks like Sam McKendry may miss the big Anzac weekend clash against the in-form Cronulla Sharks after being charged with a grade one contrary conduct charge for making contact with referee Jared Maxwell.

Nonetheless, decision pending Sam McKendry has been named on a six-man interchange bench that also features Jeremy Latimore and Elijah Taylor as the Panthers prepare to travel to the Shire this Sunday for the 4pm clash.

The Sharks are arguably the next best team behind front-runners North Queensland and Brisbane and represents a real test of Penrith’s credentials.

THEN the following Saturday the Panthers “host” the Canberra Raiders in Bathurst in what could be a desperate game for both clubs especially Canberra, who have gone off the rails somewhat after a bright start to the season that included that last minute win over Penrith 30-22 back in Round One. Most fans will be happy if the Panthers come through this fortnight with at least one win from the next two but if they can recapture the form shown against Brisbane and North Queensland for the Sharks and Raiders games, then there’s no reason why Penrith can’t come away with two wins over the next fortnight and suddenly be 5 and 4 going into the representative weekend.

Come on the “Cardiac Kids!” #PantherPride

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WITH STEW MOSES

Stadium Wars are Over; Panthers NOT Going to Parramatta The “Stadia Wars” came to dramatic conclusion last week when Premier Mike Baird took responsibility for the government’s “big stadia policy” away from Sports Minister and Penrith MP, Stuart Ayres.

With ANZ Stadium now to receive a significant upgrade to convert it into a fully roofed, rectangular venue plus the commitment to build a new stadium in Parramatta, Allianz Stadium is the big loser as only residual funds from the $1.6 billion package will be used to refurbish the Moore Park facility rather than rebuild.

Whilst no mention of the proposed Outer Western Sydney Stadium was made at last week’s announcement, it’s understood that it is very much still in the government’s plans with Penrith still the leading contender for that development.

With that in mind it was confirmed in the SMH that Penrith will now not take any games to the rebuilt Parramatta Stadium but would not rule out looking at taking games elsewhere as they do now with home games played in Bathurst and Christchurch.

Forward Rotation Policy?

It’s fast becoming apparent that coach Anthony Griffin has a real horse for courses approach when it comes to which forwards he’ll use against certain opponents, with Tyrone Peachey and Jeremy Latimore the latest to be dropped to Intrust Super Premiership in recent weeks.

Having played against Newcastle in the Intrust Super Premiership last Sunday week, Peachey returned to the NRL side for the Monday night win while Sam McKendry’s likely suspension for the Sharks clash is likely to allow Latimore to come back into the side via the bench.

As Rumoured Player Movements Continue The Elijah Taylor saga continues to bubble along with the latest mail suggesting the former Kiwi international could be off to the Wests Tigers sooner rather than later.

While recent speculation linking five-eighth Corey Norman to the club appears wide of the mark, what isn’t as well known is that his flat-mate, injured Panthers hooker James Segeyaro is in the sights of the Parramatta Eels for 2017 and beyond despite having current hooker Nathan Peats on the books.

It probably also in part explains Penrith’s reported interest in Wests Tigers hooker, Manaia Cherrington.

It’s also well known that Penrith are after an

@THERIFFMARN

the latest eighties that was pretty much the going rate.

There was no free ride for the Cowboys despite the loss. Credit 77 Media.

experienced front rower for next year with the club heavily linked to North Queensland prop, James Tamou but the Panthers are also keeping an eye the Matt Gillett situation at Brisbane.

Should Gillett re-sign on an improved contract at the Broncos, it may result in salary-cap constraints that could see Josh McGuire, a well-known fan of current Panthers coach Anthony Griffin, squeezed out despite being under contract for 2017.

Watch this space.

MG and the Grill Team Going From Strength to Strength Congratulations to our own MG, who as part of the Grill Team on Triple M have seen their ratings improve 0.9% to 8% and reclaim second place in FM (fourth overall) for their timeslot in the latest ratings released on Tuesday.

Strong TV Ratings Continue for Fox Gangbuster ratings continue for Fox Sports as 280,000 viewers tuned into the Roosters v Panthers clash, following on from the 276,000 that tuned the previous Saturday night for the Panthers v Cowboys clash.

Condolences On behalf of everyone here at Nepean News, our deepest condolences to Trent Merrin, with the passing of his grandmother last week.

The Good Old Days Are Back - $10 Bus Trips In an attempt to boost Penrith’s meagre awaygame attendances especially within the Greater Sydney region, Panthers have responded by offering bus travel to all applicable away games (including Bathurst) for the incredibly cheap price of just $10 for members ($20 non-members).

A great deal when you considered back in the day when I caught supporters buses as a teenager back in

24 HOURS

Lower Grades News Intrust Super Premiership: Penrith has the week off, after a mixed fortnight of results with the Panthers currently sitting in 9th place.

A win over the defending premiers, Newcastle 28-16 was overshadowed last Sunday by a poor performance, losing 28-6 to 2015 grand finalists, Wyong who have now won five of the last six clashes between the pair including four straight.

Holden Cup: The defending champions have now won their last three top of the table clashes, thrashing North Queensland Cowboys 36-10 and the Sydney Roosters 50-4 to remain on top, having won six games in a row.

Penrith’s for and against is extraordinary – having scored 284 points to 88 (36 of those conceding back in a Round One 36-34 loss to Canberra). The next best differential is just 44 points, belonging to this Sunday’s next top of the table opponents, Cronulla.

Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

GOLDEN POINTS

45

Junior Reps News Penrith’s junior rep teams still have title aspirations within their sights after a mixed fortnight.

Both teams will play defending champions, Cronulla in both Harold Matts and SG Ball this Saturday at Leichhardt Oval, but for opposite reasons.

SG Ball: Penrith finished third after defeating St George but were defeated in the qualifying final by the Illawarra Steelers 26-22 at Campbelltown Stadium last Saturday.

Harold Matts: Penrith, who started the final day of the season in 10th place, secured an elimination finals spot against Canberra after defeating St George.

The Panthers promptly put in one of their best efforts of season to advance to Week Two with a 30-6 win over the Raiders at Campbelltown Stadium last Saturday.

Double Dose of “The Sin Bin” After a week’s break, our rugby league podcast, “The Sin Bin” featuring Mark “MG” Geyer and myself will return with a special catch-up edition this Thursday night before returning to its usual Wednesday fortnightly timeslot.

See what all the fuss is about and check us out at: https://soundcloud.com/user-127982816 Of course if you have any Panthers news you wish to share, email me stewart@nepeannews.com.au See you at the game!

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Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

Strengthen your weakness with Scott Lewis I’D just like to say that I am very happy to be given the opportunity to be writing a column in this fantastic publication and more importantly the opportunity to be able to give Health and Fitness tips and provide quality content, that hopefully many find useful and will eventually change people’s lives for the better.

AS the colder months are now approaching, gyms and fitness facilities are in the midst or about to start all their “Weight Loss” challenges urging those to get ready for the warmer months.

Most often than not these last for (8-12 weeks/2-3 Months) and clients try and lose as much weight as they can during that period.

It’s extremely important before entering or going into these challenges, to consider -what are you going to do after the 12 weeks -when you really don’t have that incentive to lose weight or reach your fitness goals as much as you did during the challenge?

When you aren’t going through strenuous sessions at the gym or sometimes advised to eat low calorie diets, which are just counter- productive in the long run anyways?

There is no real good reason to lose 20kgs in 12 weeks, only to put on 25kgs

in the following 10 weeks, unfortunately this is often reflected by seeing the same people enter these contests year after year. These challenges aren’t for everyone, the rate of long term weight loss and maintenance yielded from such is pretty low.

You only have to look at the many reality “Fat Loss’ shows on TV, yes all the contestants lose weight, but when they go back to their normal lives and surroundings they put all that weight back on and in some cases weigh more than what they did when they first started the shows. Only a minuscule amount of contestants are able to maintain that weight loss, and more often than not, there is some financial incentive in the background.

Weight Loss should be a slow journey, a change in lifestyle incorporating small changes over a very long period of time will outweigh a ‘fat loss diet’ and excessive exercise any day of the week.

Remember, when setting your goals, THEY MUST BE ATTAINABLE, BUT EVEN MORE IMPORTANTLY, MAINTAINABLE! Follow ‘Wild Panther Fitness’ on Facebook, Instagram (@wildpantherfit) and on Twitter (@wildpantherfit.)

Until next time “STRENGTHEN YOUR WEAKNESS!”

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Struggling for consistency

By Noel Rowsell

THE Penrith Basketball Association is enduring a challenging time in the various divisions of the 2016 Waratah Youth League competitions.

The Division One Women are performing the best of the association’s three teams, with their most recent success a 75-66 win over the Central Coast Crusaders in Terrigal.

Ella Tofaeono led the Panthers with 23 points, ahead of Chloe Bloom 19 and Rhiannon Pope 15.

The Panthers enjoyed a bye in Round Six and head to Sutherland on Saturday to meet the Sharks in Round Seven.

The Division One Men are struggling for consistency and lost their Round Six game to the Maitland Mustangs in Maitland.

Sean Weekes and Bryden Albertyn led the Panthers with 15 points apiece, ahead of Mark Isichei 10.

The Panthers also enjoyed a bye in Round Six and also head to Sutherland this Saturday for their Round Seven game.

The Division Two Men were rolling along nicely in their division but successive losses have quickly brought their climb up the competition ladder to an abrupt decline.

Round Five saw the Panthers fall 76-64 to the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles in Warriewood, with Ru Daniel leading the Panthers with 20 points, ahead of Gabriel

Alvarez 9.

The Panthers were on the road again in Round Six, falling 79-65 to the Hornsby Spiders in Thornleigh.

Josh Wagenfeller led the Panthers with 15 points, ahead of Lillas Joshua 14 and Ru Daniel 12.

The Division Two Panthers have a bye in Round Seven, then host the Central Coast Waves in Round Eight.

Close neighbours the Hawkesbury Jets are the highest ranked local team in Division Two, currently holding down third spot whilst the Panthers are in fifth and the Springwood Scorchers in tenth (with a firm grip on the wooden spoon).

Boronia Park reconstruction UNDER the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership programme, St Marys Rugby League Club applied for a grant for the reconstruction and irrigation of two mini rugby league fields and one mod rugby league field at Boronia Park.

The grant application was successful resulting in a joint project between Penrith City Council and St Marys Rugby League Club totalling $108,000.

Penrith City Council’s Sports Ground Management Strategy identified the importance for improved turf quality at Boronia Park. Originally the fields were built over a road and sections of the road were appearing through the surface making the ground unsafe and players vulnerable to injury. It was also identified that there was an acute shortage of fields available for coaching programs, training and games within the community, St Marys Rugby League Club alone has over 700 players and 44 teams.

The reconstruction of the fields are now complete and will significantly increase community usage of the facility across a range of sporting and recreational activities, with Penrith City Council maintaining the grounds.

47 Nepean News 21 April 2016 Issue 173

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Thursday, 21 April 2016

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HARPO’S MARKS

T THE NRL’s much-vaunted bbunker is quickly turning out to be a whole load of bunkum!

All those two wombats sitting in the studio watching replays after those imbeciles out on the paddock officiating can’t come up with a ruling do, is to watch slow motions replays and different camera angles and make a decision.

Still they can’t get it right!

If you are a follower of the NRL there’s no need for me to point out the incorrect decisions that pair of blind mice have made this season.

Look, a few simple rule changes will make it easier for all concerned.

If you can’t hold onto a ball in a tackle, no matter how many defenders are involved, you deserve to lose possession.

If you get the ball over a tryline, whether on the ground, in the air or

still on your feet, it’s a try.

Get rid of the scrums!

The attacking side just takes a tap. That’ll save us all the tedium of watching players on both sides watching where opposing players position themselves either in the scrum or out in the backline.

If you have to have scrums, numbers 8-13 (or their replacements) must pack in the scrum.

Of even better, make the scrums a contest again – that’ll sort the men from the boys!

In days of olde, getting those 12 big boofheads out of the way for a few seconds ensured the fleetfooted men out wide had scope to put on a few moves and launch attacking raids.

NOW some good news out of rugby league – the rebirth of the game in Londonderry!

Well-known league identity,

Buck Rogers and a handful of likeminded people have worked their butts off over the past 12 months to get the Londonderry Greys up and running.

And running they are!

The Greys will gallop five teams onto the field in Penrith District Junior Rugby League competitions this year – A Grade, under 17s, under 15s, under 12s and under 7s.

I had the pleasure of attending the club’s season launch at its Richmond Greyhound Club headquarters last month.

Around 300 or so players, officials and supporters turned up for a terrific night, highlight of which was the unveiling of the Greys’ jersey.

Doing the honours with the unveiling was Prue Car, the state member for Londonderry who was also instrumental in persuading PDJRL to invite the Greys back

into footy.

I had a chat with Prue after she and Buck Rogers did the unveiling deed and she impressed me with her knowledge of the game and her delight in league returning to Londonderry after an hiatus of more than 20 years.

If she was my local member, at the next election I would be voting early and voting often to get her back into parliament.

Lovely woman and really comes across as a person who is in politics to make a difference!

HIGH MARKS: Archie Bunker couldn’t get as many laughs as the Bunker Boys. Get a dog and a white stick!

LOW MARKS: The abhorrent leniency being shown by the NRL judiciary to players charged with head-high tackles. Where’s that .44 Magnum!