Nepeannews 21august2014

$1Cheeseburger

$10

FREE

with any McCafe coffee purchase

Valid until 7/9/14 at McDonald’s® Penrith North only. Hand in this coupon when ordering to receive offer. Limit of one coupon per person per day. Not to be used to discount any other offer. Not available through Drive thru.

99 Great Western Hwy, Emu Plains - PH: 4735 5509 facebook.com/odonoghuesirishpub - falhotels.com.au odonoghues@falhotels.com.au

Thursday, 21 August 2014

ISSUE 131

Corner Castlereagh & Peachtree Roads, North Penrith

LEGENDS OF THE NEPEAN: P10-11 | HISTORY: P20 | CELEBRITY TIPSTERS: P26-27 | MARK GEYER: P29

HELP BEAT CANCER Support Cancer Council on Daffodil Day August 22.

Pictured Chris Hall, Stuart Ayres MP and Rodney Titovs Community Programs Coordinator, Penrith Cancer Council

& s e r o t S y t l a i c 42 Spe

Visit to Enter BEGINS

Friday 1st August 2014

DRAWN

Friday 24th October 2014 See Tindale foyer display or one of our friendly staff for full details.

SMALL & SUV CAR DEALS TRAX LS

fr $24,990 DRIVE AWAY WITH $1000 $ CASHBACK

SPARK HATCH

BARINA HATCH

CAPTIVA 5

CAPTIVA LS 7 SEATER

$13,990 DRIVE AWAY

fr $25,990 DRIVE AWAY

from $15,490 DRIVE AWAY

fr $29,990 DRIVE AWAY WITH $1000 CASHBACK

E IC V R E S E E R F S R A E Y 3 & Y T 5 YEAR WARRAN /08/2014 d and delivered by 31 For vechiles purchase

Heartland Holden proudly sponsors Penrith Panthers

Geyer, rk a M rs o d a ss a b m a th ri Heartland Holden Pen Elijah Taylor, , h it m S n a th a N , ce a ll a W Peter

local news

3

NEW street banners highlighting different local interests and featuring three well-known faces, will soon be seen on one of Penrith’s busiest roads.

The banners, which will go up along Mulgoa Rd in the coming week, are part of Council’s new tourism campaign to promote Penrith as the capital of the New West, and bring attention to the people who help make this City great.

Yvonne Kenny, one of Australia’s most distinguished sopranos, will be performing at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre this month and represents Penrith’s thriving arts industry on one of the banners.

Sport is one of our community’s favourite pastimes and it continues to play an important role in our City. Rugby League is a firm favourite with children and adults alike, and this is reflected in the banner featuring Penrith Panther’s Captain, Peter Wallace.

With thrill seeking activities such as iFly Downunder and Luddenham Racetrack joining established attractions such as Penrith Whitewater and Cables Wake Park in Penrith, the City is fast becoming known as the ‘Adventure Capital of NSW’. Jessica Fox, World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist in the Canoe Slalom, symbolises this growing industry on the banners.

Penrith City Mayor, Councillor Ross Fowler, says the thing that makes our City great is the

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

The new west

people who live, work and play here and this is reflected in the look and feel of the new banners.

“By profiling these well known faces on our new banners, we are shining a light on the local art, sport and adventure industries and celebrating the creative, active and adventurous spirit of the New West,” Cr Fowler said.

RAMS Home Loans Penrith are now open on Saturdays from 9am – 2pm.

Fees, charges and lending criteria apply. RAMS Home Loans Penrith is owned and operate by Greater West Home Loans Pty Ltd ABN 25 113 229 324.

Credit Provider: Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

363 HIGH ST, PENRITH

Ph: 47 321 767 47 323 786

www.pantherspizza.com.au

Tanya Davies Member for Mulgoa

Phone (02) 9833 2913 Address Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys Email mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

Open everyday of the year Home Delivery or Pick-up Wide range of other foods available* You can also order online www.eatnow.com.au

4 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Advertising Representative: Journalist: Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Martin 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Sergio Carrasco 0413 461 017 Annette Thain 0425 073 331 Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 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.

From the Journo’s Desk

by Greg Davies EVER since the first “stars” began entertaining us on the silver screen, many of them, through their talent and longevity, touched our hearts.

We looked upon them as friends – friends who not only entertained us but became part and parcel of our lives.

Such a man was Robin Williams.

His passing is being mourned by the world over - at just 63 he still had so much more to give us.

His tragic suicide clearly shows that fame and fortune mean nothing in the great scheme of things.

Robin obviously had his demons for many years and fortunately for us he was able to keep them at bay long enough so he could showcase to the world his amazing talents.

I am sure if you asked every one the world over who they would they like as a companion on a desert island, the great majority would plump for Robin Williams.

You might be hungry. You might be thirsty but you would never be bored!

Down the decades, the death of other great stars has deeply affected your writer.

Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, John Wayne, Paul Newman, Lucille Ball to name but a few.

But the loss of Robin Williams has hit even deeper.

From his emergence as Mork in the Mork ‘n’ Mindy television series, Robin entertained us as only he could – through his humour and his great acting talent and his amazing zest for life.

That Black Dog – will he ever be tamed?

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

4736 8800

www.carwise.com.au

local news

Specialising in computer repairs and sales in YOUR LOCAL AREA, we will pick-up and deliver if required and advise you on the best outcome for your computer needs.

0414 235 450

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross has reached a milestone birthday - celebrating a whopping 100 years.

The Australian Red Cross was founded in Melbourne on the 13 August 1914 with the Penrith Branch founded soon after, making it one of the oldest branches in Australia.

To celebrate, The Penrith Red Cross hosted its centenary celebrations on Saturday at the Penrith Paceway.

“Over the past century, especially during times of war and disaster or through the blood service, the lives of most Australians have been touched by Red Cross,” Lindsay MP Fiona Scott said.

“I congratulate Red Cross members and volunteers both past and present across the Nepean Valley whose everyday work makes such a positive, lasting difference to the lives of

vulnerable people across our community,” Fiona Scott added.

At the Centenary celebrations, Fiona Scott met with event organisers Jean Stephens Gallagher from Emu Plains to discuss the history of Red Cross in Penrith.

Mrs Stephens has served in the Red Cross for 61 years and is proud of the contribution the local branch has made to the local community.

“Red Cross has helped shape 100 years of Australia’s history and I am proud to note one of the first branches was actually set up here in Penrith, so we are celebrating 100 years of Red Cross in Australia, but more importantly right here in Penrith,” Jean Stephens said.

If you were unable to attend the centenary celebrations but would like to make a contribution or find out more about the Red Cross please visit www.centenary.redcross.org.au

50% OFF INETS

KITCHEN CAB

■ SHOWROOM OPEN 6 DAYS 10am-4pm ■ 12 DAY EXPRESS DELIVERY ■ 12 YEAR WARRANTY ■ FREE SOFT CLOSE DRAWERS ■ 100% AUSTRALIAN MADE

FREE QUOTES

9673 6789

www.wedokitchens.com.au UNIT 2 / 516- 524 GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY, ST MARYS

NORMAN’S SCRAP METALS CASH FOR SCRAP

NOW AVAILABLE 30 Ton Weighbridge at our Penrith site

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Free Call 1800 225 235

Shop 23, Penrith Centre 510-534 High Street, Penrith

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

100 years of Red Cross

5

local news

6 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Tickets remain STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith reminds pensioners and seniors they can rest assured that they can keep buying and using Pensioner Excursion Tickets (PET) today and after 1 September when some paper tickets are retired.

When the Gold Senior/ Pensioner Opal card is introduced later this year, fares will be capped at $2.50 a day for seniors and pensioners. Some pensioners and seniors may even pay less under Opal for short trips that don’t reach their $2.50 cap.

Customers will not need a credit card or the internet to use or obtain a Gold Senior/ Pensioner Opal card.

The Gold Senior/Pensioner Opal card will not cost anything to get, and customers will be able to manually top it up with cash if they want to.

Seniors and pensioners will be given a lot of information about how to get a new Gold Opal card, and how to use it, before it is released later this year.

“These customers will be able to continue buying and using PETs, after the Opal card is released, and well into the future,” Mr Ayres added.

Team effort in feeding babies LOCAL mothers, fathers, babies, friends, family members and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) staff gathered at Penrith City Library recently to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week with a morning tea and photo competition with the aim of sharing stories and encouraging breastfeeding rates in the local community.

The 2014 World Breastfeeding Week theme ‘Breastfeeding: A Winning Goal for Life!’ acknowledges that when mothers and babies succeed in their breastfeeding plans, they can enjoy a lifetime of benefits.

NBMLHD Primary Care and Community Health Child and Family Health Nurse and President of the International Lactation Consultant Association, Decalie Brown, says that infant feeding is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and research shows that babies who receive only breast milk for the first six months of life are less likely to develop a wide range of chronic and acute diseases, including ear infections, diarrheal diseases, asthma, obesity and respiratory illnesses.

“Breastfeeding is a ‘team’ process: mothers and babies form the core of the team, with family, friends, and

others serving as team members, coaches, cheerleaders and fans.

Mothers have goals for breastfeeding and need the help and support of the whole team to achieve those goals,” Decalie explained.

“As with a sports game, there can be small successes and setbacks through the course of a family’s breastfeeding experience, though striving all the time to win. The 2014 World Breastfeeding Week theme, “Breastfeeding: A Winning Goal –

For Life!” celebrates the team effort needed to make breastfeeding easier.”

World Breastfeeding Week events have been conducted across the Local Health District for the last four years and have helped to foster lasting partnerships between Community Health staff, local MPs and the local community.

For more information about World Breastfeeding Week, visit the World Health Organization website: www. who.int

NOW OPEN IN PENRITH

Gift Vouchers Available

Awesome Father’s Day Gift Idea

45% OFF 30 MIN

NOW $99

FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL QUOTE VOUCHER CODE - NNEWS05

• Fly a jet! Sit in the Captain’s seat and take the controls of a replica Boeing 737-800 NG simulator • Get your adrenalin pumping as you take off and land a 60 tonne aircraft • Fully enclosed cockpit built with genuine airplane parts • Functions just like a real plane, feel the bumps and shakes, with HD visuals unlike any video game!

• HD Video recording of your flight available • 3D theatre style VIP Viewing Lounge, where your family can relax and watch you fly live on a big screen

Unit 1, 9-11 Abel St Penrith (End of Carpark) TAKING BOOKINGS ONLINE NOW www.737jet.com.au OR CALL US ON 4722 5747

local news

THE NSW Government is seeking community feedback on its plan to unlock $20 billion in infrastructure funding by undertaking a long-term lease of 49 per cent of the “poles and wires” network businesses, NSW Premier Mike Baird announced last week.

The NSW Government has just released a discussion paper in what is the first step of the consultation process on specific issues or concerns regarding the Rebuilding NSW plan and the proposed partial lease.

“Rebuilding NSW is a once-in-ageneration opportunity to secure the long-term future of communities in every corner of the State,” Mr Baird said.

Local State MPs Stuart Ayres from Penrith and Tanya Davies from Mulgoa today urged the community to take up this rare opportunity to have their say on where the infrastructure funding would best be placed to provide the economic and social benefits for our community.

“This Rebuilding NSW discussion paper is a 20 page document outlining the NSW Liberals & Nationals plan to boost investment in a broad range of public projects from public transport to schools and sporting facilities” said

Mr Ayres.

“Here’s our chance to help the community think about where we can spend this money” said Mrs Davies.

“We want to hear from the community and stakeholders on a wide range of issues including how the Government can help businesses and communities to better plan for the opportunities made available as a result of new infrastructure investment.”

“We are also looking for feedback on what potential projects would provide the greatest economic and social benefits, and whether there is further scope for consumers to benefit from greater efficiency in NSW’s electricity networks,” Mr Baird said.

The consultation process established through the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) will: • provide information to NSW communities on the conditions for partially leasing the assets and the strategic priorities of the Government; • include meetings with key stakeholders and community groups across the state; and • seek submissions on investment priorities and the proposed partial lease of the electricity networks.

Interested parties are invited

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

$20 billion plan to transform NSW

7

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for Sport and Recreation, Minister Assisting the Premier on Western Sydney and Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa

to make an initial submission in response to the discussion paper by 19 September 2014. DPC will report back to Government towards the end of 2014 with a Final Report detailing

the outcomes of the consultation process.

For more details on this initiative, please visit www.rebuilding.nsw.gov. au

Salon O Driah †

FREE

treatment with any service Must present coupon to redeem offer.

One coupon per visit. Offer valid to 1/1/15.

$20

Short Hair Wash & Blow Wave Must present coupon to redeem offer.

One coupon per visit. Offer valid to 1/1/15.

$30

Discounted prices for Seniors and Cancer Care Patients Tues, Wed, Thurs

FREE 10 foils with any full colour service Must present coupon to redeem offer.

One coupon per visit. Offer valid to 1/1/15.

$90 pamper

Long Hair Wash & Blow Wave

30 minute Facial, Eyebrow Wax & Tint, Wash Cut & Blow Wave

Must present coupon to redeem offer.

One coupon per visit. Offer valid to 1/1/15.

Must present coupon to redeem offer.

One coupon per visit. Offer valid to 1/1/15.

Mens Cuts

ONLY $10

Ladies Cuts

Perms

ONLY $16 FROM $50

EVERY VISIT YOU MAKE WE DONATE 10% TO THE CANCER COUNCIL OR ROSS HUTCHINSON FOUNDATION: THE NIKI PUMP A/C OPENING HOURS Tuesday, Wednedsay, Thursday, Friday 9am - 5pm Thursday Evening by appointment only | Saturday 8am - 4pm

Shop B 201-211 High Street, Penrith (Aldi Complex) Phone 4721 5000 Like us on Facebook

Salon O’Driah

8

cover story

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Penrith supports cancer awareness

By Greg Martin

AUGUST 15 marked the official opening of the Nepean Wig Library service in Esteem Hair and Beauty Spa at Penrith with Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joining Martin and Allison Lazare of Esteem and Rodney Titovs of the Cancer Council NSW for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Salon owners Martin and Alison worked closely with the Cancer Council NSW and the Nepean Cancer Care Centre to get the service up and running in the new location. The Nepean Wig Library is a not-for-profit service and offers a private consultation room for patients with a fully trained member of the Esteem team helping to pick out the ideal wig.

Esteem Hair and Beauty Spa is at Shop 15/510-536 High Street in Penrith, with the Wig Library Service available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2pm to 4pm.

The event also highlighted upcoming Daffodil Day which is on Friday August 22.

Stuart Ayres said Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day is a wonderful campaign which has provided awareness and

support of critical cancer research over many years.

Daffodil Day is the largest national fundraising event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

“So many people in our local community have been touched by the effects of cancer either directly or through someone they know. I encourage the people of Penrith to buy a daffodil pin in support of this worthwhile cause,” added Mr Ayres.

Daffodil Day raises funds for Cancer Council to continue its work in cancer research, providing patient support programs and prevention programs for all Australians.

Daffodil Day helps grow hope for better treatments and more survivors.

To Cancer Council, the daffodil represents hope for a cancer-free future.

You too, can help in the fight against cancer by wearing a Cancer Council pin this Daffodil Day. This year Daffodil Day aims to raise over $9.7 million to fund the cancer control initiatives, patient support and research services of Cancer Council’s eight state and territory member organisations More than 10,000 volunteers are expected to staff over 1200 Daffodil Day sites across Australia.

Cancer Council ‘s wish list for MPs THE Cancer Council is asking all Federal Members of Parliament to support five key objectives in the leadup to the 2015 Federal election.

The Cancer Council has nominated the issues it says needs immediate attention.

These issues are: 1. Increased Aboriginal workforce in cancer services so Aboriginal people who go to a cancer services will be cared for by an Aboriginal person.

2. Tobacco retail reform to support people who are trying to quit, and encourage young people to live smoke

free.

3. No chemotherapy co-payments so all patients that have their chemotherapy in a public hospital get it for free, like in other Australian states.

4. Coordinated cancer care so people with cancer, and their families, get the cancer care they need in a logical, connected and timely manner − no matter where they live in NSW. 5. More palliative care services so that every person who is dying from cancer has the best quality of life and if needed, a specialist palliative care team to care for them.

Blinds

Make your next stop for the family home be Choices Flooring and Blinds Penrith.

We pride ourselves on helping each client to find the one, that perfect match to transform the home.

So come in store to see what tomorrow may bring. (inside the Choices Flooring building)

131 Coreen Avenue, Penrith | Phone 4731 4242 Contact us: penrith@choicesflooring.com.au

Saluting our Vietnam Veterans

By Kerrie Martin

A CEREMONY marking Vietnam Veterans Day was held at the St Marys Outpost on Monday; a day in which we commemorate all those who gave their lives over the long and protracted conflict in South Vietnam.

The moving service included singing, the reciting of poems, wreath laying and a special ‘dressing of the table’ with the help of students from St Clair High School.

The table was dressed with items that represented some significance, for example lemon and salt - with lemon representing the bitterness that war brings and the salt representing the tears shed.

“Much emphasis has been placed on the dreadful battle of ‘Long Tan’ which took place in 1966, and we all now know the aftermath of that historic battle,” said MC Burke Rogge.

“This however was not the last of the decisive battles which took place, with Australian troops being involved in the TET Offensive Battle of Bin Bah and FSB CORAL and BALMORAL.

“This day in August is now used to commemorate all who served in the bloody years of the Vietnam War. Naval personnel, RAAF and civilian workers who contributed to our goals of a free Republic of South Vietnam.”

Forty eight years ago, the men of Delta Company, 6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment withheld an enemy attack in a rubber plantation at Long Tan in Vietnam.

“Vastly outnumbered against their Viet Cong opponents, the Australians would lose 18 men in battle that day,” Lindsay MP Fiona Scott said.

“It was a defining battle in Australia’s 10 year engagement in Vietnam.

“And its anniversary has become the day when a nation now acknowledges, with grateful thanks, those men who served their nation in the Vietnam War. “Thanks, it should always be acknowledged, that was far too long in coming,” Miss Scott said.

Five hundred and twenty one Australians were killed in action in Vietnam. Three thousand were wounded in action and they returned home carrying the scars of the battle – both physical and emotional.

“Those who returned home were never properly honoured for their work serving their nation at their nation’s request,” Miss Scott said.

“The physical and mental scars left by the war are still evident for many of those who served and their families.”

Long overdue, the welcome home parade for Vietnam Veterans in 1987 saw the genesis for this Memorial here in our nation’s capital, a perpetual and ever-lasting reminder of the service and sacrifice of the almost 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam War.

9 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

local news

10 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

ANDREW Kurczewski grabbed me in a headlock and kept telling me “you just have to do Legends story on Greg Gavin”.

“Ask anyone who has the slightest interest in cricket around here and they’ll tell you Greg has put his heart and soul into promoting our great game,” Andrew said.

“He’s done it as a player, coach and administrator – for both indoor and outdoor forms of the game.”

I then asked Andrew if he could continue along the same vein and write the rest of the Greg Gavin Legend story for me.

“Nah, you’re the journo – go and do what journos do,” was Andrew’s reply.

So I headed down to the pub, knocked down a handful of schooners and went back to bed!

Not really!

So, pencil sharpened, I arranged to meet Greg at his home on the banks of the Nepean River at Penrith to conduct the interview for this story.

Well this Legend subject was more intent on talking about the great

players and characters he had played with during his time playing for Penrith in Sydney Grade Cricket first grade seasons 1972-73 and 1973-74 and for six seasons from the summer of 1979-80.

“I was so fortunate to have played alongside some wonderful cricketers during my time here,” Greg said.

“Ian Davis, John Benaud and Graeme Beard were good enough to play for Australia, Trevor Bayliss played 70 or so games for NSW but I suppose the best cricketer I had the pleasure of playing with was Ken Hall.

“Ken was one of the real great characters of Sydney Grade Cricket – he played the game hard but fair – there was never a dull moment when Ken was involved in the action with bat or ball.

“He was a very handy middle order batsman and could open the bowling with left-arm quickies and then come back later with his left-arm finger and wrist spinners.

“But as slips fielder, he was second to none. In all the time I played with and against him, I only ever saw him put down two catches – just a magnificent all-round cricketer.”

That’s when I had to rein in Greg and remind him this article was about him.

“Sorry,” he said. “But once I get started on those players I admired I find it hard to stop.”

And I am certain that those aforementioned players had nothing but admiration for Greg Gavin – as a cricketer and a man who has spent most of his adult life fostering the game both indoors and outdoors.

His record in first grade speaks for itself.

He played 120 games for Penrith, posted 1928 runs at an average of 19 and behind the stumps he snared 284 wickets – 261 caught and 23 stumpings.

Greg played most of his early cricket at junior and senior levels over in the old Southern Districts (now Fairfield-Liverpool) but when Penrith (then called Nepean) joined Sydney Grade Cricket, players from near and far flocked to Howell Oval to try and break into grade.

“I was graded in the seconds but after three or four games I was promoted to the firsts and that’s where I stayed throughout the remainder of my career with Penrith,” Greg said.

LARGEST GRANNY FLAT L BUILDER IN NSW CALL US TO FIND OUT ABOUT OUR GRANNY FLAT INFORMATION SEMINAR ADVANTAGES OF A GRANNY FLAT?

Licence Number: 66902C

• A Granny flat will pay itself off in 5-7 years • A Granny Flat will make money using dead yard space • A Granny flat will maximise your rental return • A Granny flat can be council approved in 10 days

• • • •

A Granny Flat provides a steady income once paid off A Granny Flat will Increase the value of your property immensely A Granny Flat can be a great tool for negative gearing A Granny flat is a Long term investment

FOR A FREE FEASIBILITY STUDY ON YOUR PROPERTY:

Visit our Exhibition Centre at 152

Russell Street, Emu Plains

CONTACT US ON

1300 721 150

www.grannyflatsandstudios.com.au

GREG GAVIN remained one of the stronger clubs in the Sydney Grade Cricket and he was a major player in landing a $3.8 million grant from the Federal Government which enabled the building of a new clubhouse and indoor training facility at Howell Oval.

“Our then Federal member, David Bradbury, was instrumental in delivering us the grant – he worked hard to ensure the funding was granted - a terrific bloke, David,” Greg said.

Greg and his old mate, John Rennie, also made a huge impact on the indoor cricket scene, introducing the first independent indoor centre to our neck of the woods at Forthorn Place, St Marys in 1983.

“John, an old mate from my days working for the Rural Bank, and I are very proud of what we achieved with the centre,” Greg said.

“Not only did it give cricketers the chance to play indoors but the centre put a, well, bit of life into the suburbs bordering Forthorn Place.

“There was nothing indoors for anyone to play sport and socialise until we opened and our centre became a sort of Mecca for locals to have a bit of fun and enjoy each other’s company.”

A passion for cricket – Greg Gavin.

The partners also opened another indoor cricket centre at Coreen Avenue, Penrith and operated it from 1985 until the early 90’s before selling.

The Forthorn Place centre hosted many elite competitions including Australian National Open and Age championships and state titles.

Married to Shirley for 35 years – they met when both worked for the Rural Bank’s city office – the couple have two children, Steven, 29, himself an elite cricketer, especially at the indoor caper, and 23-year-old Katie.

My final question to Greg as he

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

He played two seasons with Nepean before business and personal commitments forced him to give away top grade cricket for six summers and return to the Campbelltown region where he played A grade for Campbelltown.

But by the 1979-80 season Greg was back at Penrith and that’s where he remained for a further six seasons before hanging up the gloves.

But that was far from the end of Greg’s association with Penrith – he was a member of the coaching panel and later became the club president, serving in that position for nine seasons from 2003 to 2012.

But even then Greg wasn’t finished with his beloved Penrith, becoming the club’s facilities manager whose main task was promoting and overseeing the operations of the functions room.

“I did that job for 18 months – it was hard work but it gave me great satisfaction seeing the number of functions grow markedly during my time there,” Greg said.

Greg would also be justifiably proud of his achievements as president.

Under his stewardship, Penrith

11

walked me to my car was: “what made you get into wicket keeping?”

“I was nine or 10 at the time and I remember one hot day running all over the place chasing the ball while fielding when I noticed that our ‘keeper just stood there and bludged – I wanted that job,” Greg laughed.

Greg Gavin was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Andrew Kurczewski.

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

Where Detail Is Everything...

SUPER WEDDING SPECIAL 1788 The Horsley Drive, Horsley Park 2175

(02) 9620

1111

Email: events@mandavilla.com Web: www.mandavilla.com

For any MONDAY to FRIDAY Weddings Valid for all new bookings taken from 1st August 2014 to 1st August 2015 Package Priced from $65 per guest, with a minimum of 100 guests required • • • • • • • • • • • •

A Five and Half Hour Beverage Package A Sumptuous Five Star Three Course Meal Freshly Brewed Coffee, Tea Selection & Petite Fours Award Winning Master of Ceremonies To Ensure Perfection Delicious Two Tier Wedding Cake To Your Design Floral Arrangements Award Winning DJ for a 5 hour duration White Silk Ceiling Draping with Fairy Lights Venue Hire based on Minimum Number of 100 Guests Your own Exclusive Wedding Organiser Fairy Light Back Drop Behind the Bridal Complimentary On-Site Security Parking For Guests

Terms & Conditions: Valid for all NEW bookings booked from 1st August, 2014 to 1st August 2015 only.

Magical Winter Weddings JUNE*JULY* AUGUST $88 per guest - Book before 1.6.15

MONDAY-FRIDAY WEDDINGS $68 per guest - Book before 1.6.15

12

local news

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Gina scoops international award for NRS

By Kerrie Martin

SHE’S done it again Gina Field from Nepean Regional Security and Nepean News columnist (G Spot) has won yet another award, and this time it is an international one!

With the winners to be celebrated at a Gala Banquet on October 10 in Paris, France, our girl Gina will be rubbing shoulders with the world’s best.

Nepean Regional Security was named the winner of a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Management- Executive of the Year category in The 11th Annual International Business Awards.

The International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards program. All individuals and organisations worldwide – public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small - are eligible to submit nominations. The 2014 IBAs received entries from more than 60 nations and territories.

Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word for “crowned,” the awards will be presented to winners at a gala awards banquet at the Westin Paris – Vendôme Hotel in Paris.

More than 3,500 nominations

from organisations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories.

Nepean Regional Security –Gina Field won in the Management category for Executive of the Year.

“I can’t believe that a company from Penrith Sydney Australia has won in the International Business Awards up against some major large well known corporations,” Gina said.

“It has not only put us on the international map it has also placed Penrith on the International Map. “Who would have thought that a small company from Penrith Sydney Australia could go up against 3500 other companies over 60 nations across the world and win 3rd place?

Mind Boggling!”

Stevie Award winners were selected by more than 250 executives worldwide who participated in the judging process from May through early August.

“We congratulate all of the Stevie winners in this year’s IBAs,” said Michael Gallagher, president and founder of the Stevie Awards. “The quality of entries we receive improves every year. This year’s judges were rewarded with the opportunity to

review more than 3,500 stories of business achievement and innovation from around the world. We look forward to celebrating the winners’ achievements in Paris on 10 October.”

Details about The International Business Awards and the lists of Stevie Award winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/IBA. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in six programs: The International Business Awards, The American Business

Awards, the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. The sixth program, the German Stevie Awards, opens for entries on 18 August.

Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at www.StevieAwards. com

Jam-packed with entertainment DAMI Im, Jayne Denham, Rooby Roo and Peppa Pig are just some of the performers who will be entertaining the crowd at the St Marys Spring Festival on Saturday 6th September 2014.

Paulette Adams, Town Centre Manager is extremely excited about the upcoming Spring festival.

“The Spring festival brings with it a fun filled day out for families within not only our community, but a broader demographic,” Ms Adams said.

“With an estimated 20,000 people visiting St Marys CBD on the day, they will enjoy our market stalls, retail shops, food stalls, amusements and not to mention our entertainment with headlining acts.

“For our younger children they will enjoy meeting Peppa Pig and Rooby Roo on the day. This is a free family friendly event with something for everyone, and I look forward to seeing you all here.”

“St Marys prides itself on providing events that have a wide range of entertainment that will appeal to all members of the community,” added Steve Perry, Chairman of St Marys Town Centre.

“We have worked hard over the last six months to attract leading Australian entertainers.

“As well as this we have many talented locals who will be performing live; Kodie Amos, Sarah Mitchell, That’s Dance and The Performance Academy. We can’t wait for the 6th September so that we can see the community coming together to celebrate Spring in St Marys.”

Steve also said that the Spring Festival offers an immensely diverse and enjoyable landscape for all attending. From entertainment, displays, stalls and a

wide range of food, the St Marys Spring Festival a must-see premier event.

This family friendly, free event is on Saturday 6th September from 9am – 4pm.

Celebrate the beginning of spring and bring the family down to Queen St, St Marys. For more information on what to expect visit their website www.stmarystowncentre.com.

The event is proudly bought to you by St Marys Town Centre Ltd, Penrith City Council, Vintage 87.6 FM, Nepean News, St Marys Leagues Club, St Marys Village and the Western Weekender.

13 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

local news

Killer piece of string!

14

Veterinary REPORT with Dr Tony Karolis phone 1300wellpet

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

By Dr. Tony Karolis

THIS week we had a case where a cheeky little Pomeranian called Kovu was almost killed by a piece of string!

Kovu’s vigilant owners had noticed that he was not as interested in his food as normal. He was brought into Nepean Animal Hospital (one of the WellPet Vets Animal Hospitals) and the home of the regions 24 Hour

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Nepean

Vet ICU. Kovu was seen by Dr. Eva, who noticed that Kovu had a very sore mouth. His owners had noticed that Kovu loved to chew things, but rarely swallowed them. They had also seen a little bit of foam around his mouth recently.

Dr. Eva needed to have a good look in Kovu’s mouth, but he was too sore for a complete examination. Dr. Eva decided to give Kovu some pain relief and sedation. She discovered a very serious problem.

Kovu had a “linear foreign body”.

A piece of string had become trapped around Kovu’s tongue and then been swallowed. This piece of string had travelled down into Kovu’s stomach, and if it continued into his intestine, it could do serious damage. Linear foreign bodies can be one of the most difficult things to remove from a patient. In some cases they can destroy the entire intestinal tract. A single piece of string can require hours and hours of surgery and many incisions to remove. In Kovu’s case the string was already cutting through the base of his tongue, but had not yet become trapped in his intestines.

Dr. Eva managed to successfully remove a 50cm piece of string from Kovu without the need for major surgery. As soon as Kovu had

recovered from his anaesthetic he began eating again. He was obviously a lot more comfortable without the string cutting through his tongue and hanging down his throat.

Cats and particularly dogs are both prone to swallowing things they shouldn’t. We frequently find ourselves removing bizarre items from the stomach and intestines of our patients. The items range from fish hooks, to mango seeds and everything in between. We even see the occasional pet toy get trapped.

Cats are not as prone to swallowing things as dogs, however, they do love to play with string, so linear foreign

bodies are one of the more frequent foreign objects found in our pet cats.

If your pet is unwell with signs of a tummy upset, and the vet is having trouble working out why, ask them to have a look under your pets tongue.

Remember that if your pet is ever unwell, there is only one number that you need to remember: 1300 WELLPET. We are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. If your regular vet is closed we will happily see you and make sure that all your pets medical records are passed on to your regular vet when your pet goes home.

Granny Flats

From $53,000 + delivery

$76.50 per 1800H panel WHILE STOCKS LAST

local news

16 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Nepean rowers shine bright JACOB Munday’s enthusiasm for his role as head youth coach at Nepean Rowing Club is infectious.

Only 19, Jacob, under the direction of new club captain, Daniel Waddell, has been able to inject his passion for the sport into the club’s up-andcoming rowers and as such, Nepean is once again being regarded as a major player on the rowing scene.

The club recently participated in the four meet J.B. Sharp Winter Regatta series which involved Sunday regattas at Iron Cove involving Nepean, Bathurst and the inner city clubs Glebe, Drummoyne, Balmain and Leichhardt.

Throughout the series, a number of Nepean’s younger and less experienced rowers showed just what hard work and enthusiasm can do for your form.

The club is blessed with three outstanding under16 years single scullers who filled the first three players – and it was a blanket finish – at the opening regatta.

Joel Salter edged out Angus Harrold with Campbell a whisker away in third place. As they push each other at training and in races, these three young men are sure to keep improving.

On that opening meet, Nepean’s

Novice Quad Sculls combination of young Beer and Chris Davies, Jim Shaw and Patrick Newbold, absolutely blitzed their rivals – these boys are set for a hot summer.

Nepean also posted first places at last Sunday’s fourth and final regatta, 17-year-old Henry Robinson beating a top-class field of open men’s sculls, and the year younger Madyson GleesonRomer leading throughout to win the Women’s Novice Singles Sculls.

Captain Waddell, Jacob and the entire squad were thrilled by the performances of the club’s rowers throughout the J.B, Sharp series.

“Our rowers are a committed group of switched on young people who attend up to seven sessions a week of both land and water training,” Jacob said.

“They work extremely hard... and with the help of volunteer Calum Pope, an Exercise Physiologist, they are given the right training and advice.

“Under the direction of Daniel and senior coach, Dick Willis, we have managed to form a good team of coaches who truly understand the need in our district for a genuine focus on junior rowing at our club” “Our overall success in the J.B.

Nepean’s J.B. Sharp Series team. Madyson Gleeson-Rome is in middle, back row and another ace junior sculler, Henry Robinson, is the tall fella with the hat in front.

Sharp Winter Regatta Series has given our rowers the confidence needed for the upcoming Summer Regatta season, where we’ll be aiming to prepare for State and Nationals.

“As a volunteer driven club, we are proud of these results and with a fresh coaching team and now genuine support from parents - the spirit of the club has been immensely uplifted”

FATHERS’ DAY Bring the whole family and celebrate Father’s Day at the Henry...

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Closed Tuesday, open every other day

South American food available

Chacarero

$800

Chicken Burgers

$650

DON’T FORGET OUR FANTASTIC RAFFLE IS ON AT 6.30PM Empanadas

$4

each

We bake our own bread

103 Queen St, St Marys

p. 9833 0388

With a JUMBUCK 57cm WEBER BBQ to be won at the end of the raffle.

Simply pop your name on the back of your tickets and place in the box provided.

144 Henry Lawson Ave, Werrington County P: (02) 9623 2119 | www.henrylawsonclub.com.au

18

local news

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Thrills to D-Max at the Penrith Show AFTER an extremely successful debut year, Team D-MAX are back for 2014 and are gearing up for the Penrith Show on the 30th and 31st of August presented by TAFE Western Sydney Institute.

Team D-MAX are excited to return to Penrith after a recent manufacturer change. In 2012 they performed as the ‘Unbreakable Hilux Heroes‘ to more than 4,000 spectators. The Isuzu D-MAX is offered in 12 different 4x4 and 4x2 models and the team has chosen the Japanese-designed 4x2 SX Crew Cab Low-Ride for its performance fleet.

Piloting the Team D-MAX UTEs are four of Australia’s top motorsport drivers; Jack Monkhouse, Dave Shannon, John Boston and Michael Long. The team performs in front of millions of people across Australia every year at major and regional agricultural shows, motorsport events and trade days across Australia with a variety of high octane-driven maneuvers and formation driving.

“Precision driving has been a crowd favourite at city and regional agricultural shows for over 45 years and reaches a huge live audience in our target markets,” said Isuzu UTE’s

Senior Public Relations Manager Dave Harding.

The performance includes close formation driving, high speed drifts and slides, hair-raising 4-way crossovers, and over the 14m ramp to ramp jump.

2014 is an exciting year for Team D-MAX with the recent announcement of Toyo Tires, chosen as official tyre supplier for Team D-MAX. The team’s lead driver Jack Monkhouse said that, like choosing the right vehicle, choosing the right tyre partner was an extremely important decision.

“We’ve got good vehicles and talented drivers but at the end of the day the thing we rely on most to keep things safe and under control is our tyres,” he said.

“The surfaces we perform on vary greatly, including wet, dry, tarmac, gravel, grass, mud, clay and sand so good tyre traction in all conditions is essential.

“In addition, the sidewalls of the tyres have to be particularly tough because the vehicles are jumped through the air and even driven on two wheels, so we are asking a lot of the Toyos.

“Leading off-road racing teams all over the world run on Toyo’s Open Country tyres because of their extreme durability and resistance to punctures and that is a critical factor for us too.”

Monkhouse said the power of the D-MAX’s 3-litre turbo diesel engine is mindblowing.

“We have put the D-MAX’s through some massive challenges over the past 12 months and they continue to perform at the highest level,” he added.

“Their amazing vehicles and their truck heritage is obvious when you look closely at how they are built.”

HUGE LOUNGE SALE SOLID CEDAR DOORS & WINDOWS

We have a combined experience of 70 years in Furniture, So come and See the Experts today

nepean history

20 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Beehive Inn I

N the late 1840’s the California Gold Rush gained momentum and it looks like Irishman Luke Ryan decided to try his luck. In 1851 he travelled from Sydney via the US ship “Martha” bound for San Francisco with his brother Michael. He didn’t stay long but left his brother and returned in November from San Francisco on the “Mary Catherine”. In May 1853 Luke had purchased off Maurice Walsh all the stock in trade along with the lease of the “Beehive Inn” that was situated in Campbell Street in Sydney. He presented a petition with numerous names to his Excellency the Governor General for a special licence but was turned down. He persisted and

by May 1854 he was the Publican of that very establishment with a liquor licence for a year when he charged George Healy of insulting his wife by consistently calling Mrs Ryan “an old trollop” over the dispute of the price of a glass of ale. To Luke’s disgust Healy was told off and discharged. Also in 1854 Luke’s wife went surety for the family of Bounty Immigrants Daniel, Owen & wife Eliza Ryan via the “Stamboul”. In May 1855 Luke was granted another year’s licence and in August he was a subscriber to St Bridgid’s Chapel at Prospect. The Foundation Stone of St Brigid’s was laid by Archdeacon John McEnroe on 19 July 1855. Archbishop John Bede Polding opened St. Brigid’s Church on 27 July 1856 that was erected on land at the corner of Thornley Road and the Western Highway (now Reservoir Road). The Prospect Highway now intersects with Reservoir Road in this vicinity. St. Mark’s Coptic Catholic Church now has a building on what was some of the St. Brigid’s property.

St. Bridgid’s Church closed in 1975 and was demolished in 1977.

At this time the building was painted cream on the outside and cement rendered on the inside. The bricks were taken down by hand, individually cleaned by volunteer parishioners of Blacktown South and now form the sanctuary wall and exterior walls of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Blacktown South. The 1856 Altar Stone is set into the St. Michael’s Altar. The 1854 plaque and stone from St. Bridgid’s have been made into a memorial in the grounds of St. Michael’s. In January, 1856 Luke was on the committee of a Mr Plunkett’s election to represent Sydney in the new Parliament – Phillip Ward. In the Central Police Court in January 1856 William Welsh pleaded guilty to information by Mr. Stubbs for a breach of the Slaughtering Act having slaughtered a beast in an unlicensed place and paid a penalty of £5 and costs. Luke was also found guilty on the prosecution of Mr. Stubbs for being the owner/occupier of the premises where a bullock died of disease and he did not immediately remove the carcass to be destroyed by fire as required by law. It appeared that the body was removed but instead of destroying it the carcass was left upon land situated between the Canterbury and Hexley roads belonging to Mr. P. A. Tompson who had to destroy it to prevent infection to his own cattle. Luke was sentenced to pay a penalty of £3 with 26/- costs or to be imprisoned for seven days.

The Ryan family was fairly well represented in signing petitions for City officials and Representatives for Parliament. In August 1856 Luke signed a petition as an elector of the City of Sydney for Edward Dease Thomson Esq. to assist in the working out of the new constitution giving his support for Edward to return as one of the Representatives of Parliament and in December Luke, John, James, Patrick, Timothy, Thomas & William Ryan signed

the petition for the election of John Fairfax Esq. for the City of Sydney. In January 1858 Luke was located at South Creek according to an advertisement in the Sydney Morning Herald which reads “Stolen or strayed from South Creek a black horse branded PO near shoulder, star in forehead, white stripe down nostril and lip, small bump on saddle. Apply Luke Ryan - South Creek or butcher John Bullock -North Shore”. In April 1858 Luke applied for a license of the “Beehive” at South Creek but was refused “as the applicant was not a fit and proper person to hold a publican’s License”. In May at the Penrith Police Court, Mr. W. Roberts applied to the same Bench of Magistrates to grant a re-hearing of the application of Luke Ryan, publican, of St. Mary’s, South Creek. The inn was in part of the O’Connell terraced houses on the Western Road. It appeared that the application had been heard by other justices and the license was unanimously refused for reasons mentioned by the Court. Mr. Roberts was instructed to mention the hardships and difficulties that Luke laboured because no objections had been filed and no witnesses called and examined on oath in support of any objections that might have existed when the license was refused and was required by the provisions of the Act of Council. Asking that if their Worships would grant the re-hearing he hoped for a different result. And their Worships, under these circumstances not wishing to prejudice the rights of Luke and in this view of the law they granted a re-hearing. In July, 1858 according to a deposition at the State Records Department, Luke assaulted someone and that was why he was not a “fit or proper person” to hold the license. The information at the State Records at Kingswood doesn’t give who he assaulted or why and there is nothing at all on the deposition. All records for this period are lost. In August, 1858 at the Parramatta Quarter Sessions Luke was indicted with “feloniously wounding” Catherine Waite.

The trial was postponed because of the absence of a witness. In November Luke who was on bail was charged with having violently assaulted with a weapon on Catherine Waite of St Marys in June who later died. A deposition of the woman after considerable discussion was admitted. Luke was found guilty and sentenced to six months hard labour in Parramatta gaol and his publican license revoked. In August, 1859 the “Beehive Inn” and other extensive premises known as the property of Luke Ryan was up for sale. In March 1860 Luke was publican of the “Irish Harp Inn” at the Haymarket in Campbell Street and by October 1860 it was being sold. Luke’s wife Mary Ryan died in June 1878 and the funeral moved from their residence in Ultimo Street off Engine Street to the Devonshire Street cemetery.

In August, 1878 Luke was ordered to pay £10 to keep the peace on a complaint from Patrick Buckley that Luke had threatened to take his life. Luke’s son Daniel died at the age of 45 in 1879 and Luke died in June, 1880 at his residence. He was buried with his wife at the Devonshire Street cemetery (now the site of Central Railway Station).

Information from various sources.

Lyn Forde, Vice-President of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc

17TH

ANNIVERSARY

WEEKEND

30TH AUGUST

31ST AUGUST

BLACKWATER GEORGIE SUNDAY FROM 4PM

$1700 BADGE DRAW - MUST BE WON

$1000

TO THE WINNER

Saturday 20th September

$20 TO ENTER, $10 ENTRY TO SHOW

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY AUG 22ND - 8PM

KOPPEN TERRACE

SATURDAY AUG 23RD - 8PM

VENUS 2

FULL $10 LUNCH MENU Complimentary beer, wine or soft drink (members only).

7 to choose from.

Monday-Friday Only

FRIDAY AUG 29TH - 8PM

RAPTURE

SUNDAY MONSTER RAFFLE Starts t att 6 6.30pm 30 Ti Tickets k t on S Sale l from 5pm A variety of prizes

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

22 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to the editor to kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Fernhill Picnic Races I refer to your feature article regarding the Fernhill Picnic Races. Please read MPA’s submission on our website under the Fernhill tab. You would have seen we don’t oppose the Picnic Races subject to additional conditions.

Peter Harvey Mulgoa Progress Association

What a wonderful event Fernhill Picnic Races (Aug 7 edition) will be for this area. I didn’t get a chance to get there last year but everyone I know that did go said it was a terrific event. I’m dumbfounded by those who whinge of weather conditions and rubbish on the day (the DAY being the operative word here people!) It is one day a year for crying out loud. Grow up.

M. Vella Glenmore Park

Why would anyone not support Fernhill Picnic Races?? It is a great event for Penrith! Sounds to me like the MPA should be renamed the MRA standing for Mulgoa Regressive Association if they want to poke holes in a great local event and impose conditions on what was the best day ever last year.

S Baxter Penrith

I just wanted to say I think that moving home games to big rugby league venues will kill the sport.

I have been sitting on the hill for over 10 years supporting the mighty panthers. If we lose our home turf I will retire from my spot on the hill and take up a spot on my lounge chair. Why can’t they just leave things as they are?

Paul Jones Werrington

The editor has decided that this edition’s star letter goes to Emelie from St Marys. Emelie has won a dinner and show for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant.

Send your letters to kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

I am writing to voice my opinion for the State Government south west rail link and airport proposal.

I attended a community consultation meeting a couple of weeks ago and was disappointed to see the meeting overrun by a group of residents who were clearly against the proposal and sought to dominate the meeting with their intimidatory tactics. Due to their actions, others at the meeting, including myself, were given little opportunity to express our points of view.

I would like to thank Tanya Davies MP for holding the meeting and wish to express to her and others that I, and many people in my community, support the proposal.

I work in St Marys in a charity and I assess people to provide for their needs. When I interview young and middle aged people I see in their eyes no hope of finding a job, no hope for tomorrow. The majority want to work but cannot find a job. This is a great opportunity for young people in the western suburbs to give them a hope and aspiration for the future to advance forward as well as to give them dignity and self esteem and that they are not a burden on the community.

I hope that when a decision is made on this most important development, the views of all residents will be listened to and considered.

Emelie St Marys

CROSSWORD ACROSS 9 Elusive (7) 10 Not capable of being swayed (7) 11 Rod-shaped bacteria (7) 12 A disgraceful event (7) 13 Cover with zinc (9) 15 Parts (5) 16 Able to see (7) 19 Leveled using thin wedges (7) 20 City in Nebraska (5) 21 Grape plantations (9) 25 Cursor (7) 26 Famously (7) 28 Singalong (7) 29 Stress (7)

solution 7/8/14

DOWN 1 Chinch (6) 2 Delete (6) 3 Grind (4) 4 Zodiacal twins (6) 5 Pet rodents (8) 6 Aptitude (10) 7 Fantasy (8) 8 Used (8) 14 Allure (10) 16 Dawdler (8) 17 Huge masses of ice (8) 18 Deviated (8) 22 90 (6) 23 Jewish religious teachers (6) 24 Expression (6) 27 Albacore (4)

E N T E R T A I N M E N T 24 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

The wharf review: open for business EVERYONE’S favourite lampoonists return for a special edition of The Wharf Revue: Open for Business, packed full of their trademark irreverent, anarchic political satire.

Fresh with a new Senate that makes unrepresentative swill look good, Canberra’s never been so appealing - Australia is open for business under new mismanagement!

Once again, The Wharf Revue is back to do the audit. And they won’t be deterred, not even for a bottle of Grange.

Everyone’s under the microscope: Blinky Bill and his unionised koala colony; Clive “Coach” Palmer and the Balance of Power Rangers; Hassan’s Heroes, the side-splitting new sitcom set on Manus Island; Cory Bernardi’s beach party, where even the weiners are consumed with moral outrage; the Front Page, hard-hitting jurna .. journoliz .. jernalism from News Limited; everyone’s favourite Education Minister Christopher Robin Pyne; the Canberra Tales Chaucerian musings of three lobbyists as they make the annual pilgrimage to the capital to crave indulgence; the

Royal Commission (take your pick) and the usual assorted suspects who make Australian politics such a joy.

Starring Phillip Scott, Jonathan Biggins, Amanda Bishop and – making his maiden speech in the House of Revue – Doug Hansell, The Wharf Revue: Open for Business has its Australian Premiere at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 4 – 6 September.

Written and created by Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott, the outrageous Wharf Revue team attract a large and loyal band of fans at The Joan, who revel in the vicious, malicious, but most of all - deliciously and outrageously funny content.

With an extremely limited season of only four performances at The Joan, you are advised to get in early and snap up your tickets now! The Wharf Revue: Open for Business, at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith.

Dates 4 – 6 September. Tickets $50 - $59.

Bookings: 4723 7600 or visit: www.jspac.com.au

26

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

BUL PAR BRI SOU NZW CRO STG PAN BUL BRI NEW CAN SYD NZW MAN NQC 22 WES MAN NEW NQC SYD CAN GCT MEL SOU STG PAR WES MEL GCT PAN CRO Round

&

23

Aug 21 7.45pm

Aug 22 7.45pm

Aug 23 5.30pm

Aug 23 7.30pm

Aug 24 12.00pm

Aug 24 2.00pm

Aug 24 3.00pm

Aug 25 7.00pm

Aug 28 7.45pm

Aug 29 7.45pm

Aug 30 3.00pm

Aug 30 5.30pm

Aug 30 7.30pm

Aug 31 2.00pm

Aug 31 3.00pm

Sept 1 7.00pm

SCORE

Y T O Celebrity O F R TIPSTERS E V E F Brett McVea ~ National Locksmiths

204 Andrew Kurczewski ~ PC Signage

192 Mark Fitzpatrick ~ Penrith Valley Pest Control

188 Steve Hurley ~ All About U Promotions

194 Alex McKenzie ~ Future Financial Services

196 Cameron Faico ~ Property Central

180 Dave Seager ~ Seager Financial Services

168 Troy Kennedy ~ sellmycarcarbuyers.com.au

★

BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 23

188 Richard Mortimer ~ Electra Cool

196 Anthony Walker ~ BOQ

176 Vic Shipley ~ Powersmart Electrical

180 NEPEAN NEWS CELEBRITY TIPSTER SHIELD PROUDLY DONATED BY

4721 7436

Secure your loved ones 112b Stafford Street, Penrith - Plenty of street parking

1300 897 170 | www.nationallocksmiths.com.au

&

23

Aug 21 7.45pm

Aug 22 7.45pm

Aug 23 5.30pm

Aug 23 7.30pm

Aug 24 12.00pm

Aug 24 2.00pm

Aug 24 3.00pm

John Veitch ~ Heartland Holden

Aug 25 7.00pm

Aug 28 7.45pm

Aug 29 7.45pm

Aug 30 3.00pm

Aug 30 5.30pm

Aug 30 7.30pm

Aug 31 2.00pm

Aug 31 3.00pm

Sept 1 7.00pm

27 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

BUL PAR BRI SOU NZW CRO STG PAN BUL BRI NEW CAN SYD NZW MAN NQC 22 WES MAN NEW NQC SYD CAN GCT MEL SOU STG PAR WES MEL GCT PAN CRO Round

SCORE

Y T O Celebrity O F R TIPSTERS E V E F

200★

BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 23

Mark Geyer ~ Nepean News columnist

186 Steve Beard ~ Select Mortgage

196 Nicole Keene ~ Blink Property

206 John Thain ~ Penrith Councillor

★

BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 23

186 Bernard Bratusa ~ Penrith Councillor

188 Tim Reynolds ~ O’Donoghues

194 Trent Pittaway ~ Blue Cattledog Hotel

202 Lee Hampton ~ Pro Frame

190 Michael Creed ~ Nepean News Columnist

★

BONUS POINTS FOR FULL ROUND IN ROUND 23

194 Garth Tengdahl ~ GTs - Penrith Valley Painting Service

176 NEPEAN NEWS CELEBRITY TIPSTER SHIELD PROUDLY DONATED BY

H E A RT L A N D H O L D E N PENRITH GRAND MASTERS 2013

47217436

28

sport

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

ON THE MAT

with Tony Brassel

With Col Crossingham

THE Nepean District Champion of Club Champions Singles was held over the weekend August 2-3 at Glenbrook Panthers.

Unfortunately there were a number of byes and forfeits in the first round.

The results of the matches that were played were John ‘Spook’ Davis from St Marys RSL defeated Rees Little (Glenbrook Panthers) 3127, Dennis Boxsell (Springwood) was down 8-24 midway through his match against Terry Flanagan from Windsor, however he turned the match around winning 31-27.

In the other first round match Gerard Short (Austral) defeated Ross Strothers (Kingswood) 31-22.

In the quarter finals Paul Faorlin (Blacktown Workers) defeated John Phelps (Blacktown City) 31-25, Glenn Chandler (Penrith) defeated Spook Davis 31- 26, Gerard Short defeated Dennis Boxsell 31- 5 and Luke Millican, 16 years old from Wisemans Ferry, defeated Trevor Costa ( Wallacia) 31-25.

Semi-final winners were Glenn Chandler and Gerard Short. In the final Gerard proved to be the more consistent bowler and ran out the winner 31- 12. Gerard will now represent the district in the Zone Finals at Austral in September.

THE State Finals of the Pennant competition were played over the weekend of August 9-10 at

BARRIER RISE

various venues around the state.

Austral Bowling Club competed in the Grade 1 finals at Belrose and was very unlucky to be beaten in the 3rd round of sectional play.

Penrith Bowling Club competed in the Grade 2 finals at Port Macquarie. They won their section and were narrowly beaten by 3 shots in the semi-final against the highly favoured Cabramatta.

PENRITH Men’s Bowling Club held their AGM on Sunday, August 3.

The Executive Committee that was re-elected unopposed was: President Terry Simmons, Vice Presidents Neville Ireland and Bob Dohne, Secretary Col Crossingham, Treasurer Brian Brainwood, Bowls Organiser Gary Adnum and Assistant Bowls Organiser Don ‘Dizzy’ Davis.

Committeemen are Bob Taylor, Glenn Chandler, Vic Orchard, Steve Martin and Tim Spain.

Selectors elected were Trevor Gostelow, Steve Harvey, Don ‘Dizzy’ Davis, Steve Martin and Col Crossingham.

THE Kingswood Mixed Pairs Final was played on August 9 between Judy Ryan and Tony Lobo opposing Lyn Haddow and Jim Hadler.

The Ryan-Lobo combination had a comfortable win in an entertaining match. Contributor – Ted Ryan.

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.

ANY DAY WILL DO: Had no trouble winning a 1200m Warwick Farm heat and will present a fit horse for David Vandyke.

BROOK ROAD: Beaut style of mare now operating out of Kris Lees’s Newcastle stable. Under a giant grip for fourth in a trial last week.

CHETTALI: Exceed And Excel youngster trained

by John O’Shea. Narrow but decisive winner of a recent Warwick Farm trial.

GHIBELLINES: Ranked among the superior colts of last season’s juveniles. He’s ready to take up where he left off.

LORD BECKWORTH: Paul Perry has a tidy young galloper here. Narrow but eye-catching winner of a Newcastle heat.

MORIARTY: One of Team Waller’s best stayers and good enough for another significant group win this spring.

PARMELIA: Likely looking Fastnet Rock from the David Atkins stable at Newcastle. Streaked home in a recent trial so looks ready.

ROYAL DESCENT: Chris Waller’s stylish mare strolled down the home straight for second in her trial.

All class.

Colyton/Mt Druitt Junior Rugby League Football Club COACHES REQUIRED FOR 2015 SEASON – UNDER 6’S TO A RESERVE GRADE NEVER COACHED BEFORE? – NOT A PROBLEM! YOU HAVE NO KIDS PLAYING? – NOT A PROBLEM! NEVER BEEN INVOLVED WITH JUNIOR RL? – NOT A PROBLEM! We are looking for men and women who are interested in coaching rugby league from under 6’s and up for the 2015 season.

Do you have an interest in coaching junior rugby league but never had the opportunity – now is the time.

Training is normally for 1 hour twice a week and the games are on Saturday from April to August.

Visit our website

www.colytonmtdruitt.leaguenet.com.au and down load an application.

Applications close 19th September.

If you need more details please ring Peter Martin on 0411 278 746 or email – petermartin138@gmail.com

Download all forms from our website For more information contact: Paul McCahon Ph: 0431 179 331 Ian Wotherspoon Ph: 0411 025 404 www.pisports.com.au PO Box 842 Kingswood 2747 Teams can be registered at our Showroom, 7/31 Coombes Dr, Penrith

WITH MARK GEYER

DRAFTY DRAFT HAS TOO MANY HOLES

THE proposed Rookie Draft suggested by league boss David Smith sent shock waves through clubs that have a massive junior nursery.

Penrith, Parramatta and Western Suburbs especially. What’s the point of breeding young guns only to see them shipped off to a club with next to no juniors of their own?

Smith has put forward (who knows when or if) that each club nominates five of their local juniors that would be exempt from any such overtures, leaving all other youngsters open to the genuine prospect of playing somewhere a long way from where they want to be.

I’m starting to get a little bit fed up with the constant changes being made to rugby league.

Whether they be rules changes or the hint of something as significant as a rookie draft, why the hell do we continually attempt to try and reinvent the wheel when from where I’m looking the steering is just fine thanks.

Back to the draft. In 1991 Western Suburbs junior Terry Hill fought and won against being drafted and that’s where it should have been left.

Hill became embroiled in the “External and Internal Draft” system in the 1991 season when,

after agreeing to a playing and employment deal with the Western Suburbs Magpies, he was drafted from the Internal Draft pool by Eastern Suburbs.

Hill’s initial appeal was overturned and he eventually agreed to a three year contract with Easts. By the end of 1991 the High Court had overturned the draft system and in 1992 Hill was given a release and he was able to move on to Western Suburbs Magpies.

As a father of two boys playing in the Penrith district, the last thing I’d want as a dad is to see my son, begrudgingly, sent to a club he didn’t want to play for.

I’ve stated in this very column before I’m a fan of Dave Smith but my patience, along with lots of other league fans, is wearing thin. We all know the saying that “too many cooks spoil the broth” well I’m coming up with another “too many rule changes to rugby league will wreck it”.

Rugby league players representing their home town should never become just a coincidence.

The word draft should only be used when describing the chill coming down the hall way.

A COUPLE of weekends ago my lovely wife Meags and I headed up to the Hunter Valley. The occasion was that the captain of the ship on the Grill Team (Triple M) Chris Page (Pagey) and his lovely Georgie were getting married.

It was a wonderful weekend topped with an amazing ceremony. It was also the first time in a loooooong time my wife and I ventured away from the “Riff” without any of our five kids in tow.

In the 20 years we’ve been married we can count on one hand when it’s been just her and me away together overnight.

And while we’re not complaining one iota, gee it was magic to just sit and chat without any distractions on the 2 1/2 hour trip up north. We often get so tied up in our kids’ lives that we lose sight of the little things that make us as parents happy.

I know it’s bloody hard to get away for a weekend without the whipper snippers, but if and when you can, do it.

The kids actually missed us and we missed them.

You could say it was a weekend of ‘appreciation’ from both sides of the Geyer family.

Something every family needs once in a while!

Take care and see ya at the game.

Share your thoughts with Mark Geyer by emailing nepeannews@aol.com

Panther girls into the playoffs LIFE in the post-season of the 2014 Waratah Championship League (WCL) competition will differ dramatically for Penrith’s two senior teams, following the completion of the regular season last weekend.

Sydney Flames WNBL forward Rohanee Cox had been out-played by her former team-mate Renae Camino in the previous round and was obviously on a mission against the Newcastle Hunters on Saturday night.

Cox raced to double figures in the first term, leading the Davlin Security Panthers women to a 22-14 lead at the first break.

Penrith would not take their foot off the accelerator until the third term but even then refused to give the visitors a sniff of victory.

The Panthers clicked back into top gear in the fourth quarter, racing away to a 91-76 win.

Cox led all scorers with 43 points and 11 boards, ahead of Tahlia Tupaea 17 points, 10 assists and Alicia Poto 17 points.

That performance sets the Panthers up for a thrilling elimination quarter final against the Illawarra Hawks in Wollongong this weekend.

Illawarra have the split on the Panthers

in the regular season but Penrith’s big three of Cox, Tupaea and Poto all looked primed to carry their team deeper into the playoffs.

The Pioneer Tavern Panthers men had a very faint chance of reaching the playoffs and looked determined in the opening quarter of their game, building a 28-19 lead in the term.

Newcastle however as not prepared to go down willingly, fighting hard to keep the Panthers within striking distance for the remainder of the game.

Penrith led 47-40 at half time and 66-60 at the end of the third term, then looked set to march away with the game at the start of the fourth quarter.

Just how Newcastle got back into the game is still somewhat of a mystery but the Panthers lost their healthy lead in a matter of minutes and the Hunters looked ever more confident as the margin decreased.

A few fortuitous calls gave Penrith much-needed breathing space and they held on for an unconvincing 85-80 win.

Angus Brandt led the Panthers with 25 points and 12 boards, ahead of Louis Brandt 17 points, Nic Pozoglou 14 points and 10 boards and Sean Albert 10 points.

Panthers’ Flames WNBL power forward Rohanee Cox was ranked the most efficient player of the season in the women’s division. Cox had a blinder against Newcastle last weekend. Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au

29 Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

Y Mark T O O F R E MY WORDS V E F

Nepean News 30

TRADES & SERVICES

APPLIANCES

Nepean News 21 August 2014 Issue 131

APPLIANCE SERVICES Tel:

9623 3116

Fax: 9623 0613 • sigma_2@bigpond.net.au

292 Great Western Hwy, St Marys 2760 Authorised Service Agent for Sharp & Electrolux Floor Care

FORKTIME TRAINING

PATIOS

PATIOMAN

SALES SERVICE SPARES

Specialising in Carports, Awnings, Glass Rooms, Rumpus Rooms, Screened Rooms

• Refrigeration • Air Conditioning • Washers • Dryers • Microwaves • Stoves • Vacuums Reconditioned Appliances Sold

Call Peter Dunn 4735 5055 or 0416 035 645

www.patioman.com.au

BINS

PRINTERS

9670 2776

PHONE

4577 9577

BOOK ONLINE:

www.forktime.com.au BLINDS

TRANSPORT

KITCHENS

Penrith Valley Blinds Your local blind man Verticals, Hollands, Screen Doors, Canvas Awnings, Australian made and owned

Call Peter on 0423

9625 3461

Tel: Fax: 9625 3463 E: terrysprint@optusnet.com.au

Best & Less Kitchens

kitchens wardrobes office fit outs joinery

Established 30 Years Best & Less Kitchens are specialists in all types of kitchens and joinery

FREE Quotes, 10 years guarantee

1300 957 609

VIC’S MAXI TRANSPORT HIRE US FOR ALL YOUR BUS NEEDS!

721 632 LAWNMOWING

FIREWOOD

Lawn Mowing and Property Maintenance NEPEAN GRASSHOPPER

SMITH PRODUCE and

FIREWOOD

0437 262 143

ABN 52 848 611 242 ✔ Fully Insured ✔ Obligation free quotes ✔ Regular mowing discounts ✔ Pensioner Discounts ✔ Quality work coupled with reliability assured ✔ Mowing, Edges and Hedges ✔ Rubbish removals ✔ Blow down hard surfaces ✔ National Criminal History Checked Just ask us we are happy to help Call Gordon on

(behind Action Autos)

nepeangrasshopper@iprimus.com.au www.nepeangrasshopper.com.au

Western, North Coast and Local Timbers

4730 6000 2073 Castlereagh Rd, Penrith

DISCOUNTED FIREWOOD

0403 776 636 or 47 738 955

GUTTERING

PAINTING

Victor & Cathy Glanville

Phone

4732 2195

Mobile: 0416

157 668

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

www.vicsmaxitransport.com.au

TREE SERVICES

GT’s Penrith Valley Painting Service gtspenrithvalleypaintingservice@yahoo.com

0430 106 399 ABN 5411 933 9171 Licence 265238c

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Creati ve

DE SIGNS

stacey401980@gmail.com

• • • • •

Stacey

Magazine & Newspaper Design Business Stationery Invitations Banners / Posters / Flyers Newsletters • Signage

0420 319 893

stacey@nepeannews.com.au

PHONE 9834 5579 TO PLACE YOUR TRADE SERVICE AD

STORAGE KING PENRITH OFFERS A SAFE & SECURE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL YOUR BELONGINGS. EXPERIENCED STAFF OFFERING EXPERT STORAGE ADVICE. Features: • Various sized commercial storage, industrial storage and domestic storage available • Individually alarmed units • 24 hour camera surveillance • Access with your own individual pin number • Security Patrolled Premises • Competitive rates for long and short term storers • Friendly and helpful staff • Each unit with its own light • 7 day access • Flexible payment options • Removalist assistance from our panel of professional removalists • Use of Storage King truck to bring goods into storage • Insurance for your goods • Boxes, storage bags, mattress covers and bubble wrap all at competitive rates

42-46 CAMDEN STREET, PENRITH

P: 4732 2111

F: 4722 5714

E: penrith@storageking.com.au

W: storageking.com.au | www.storagepenrith.com.au www.facebook.com/storagepenrith

Thursday, 21 August 2014

sport

HARPO’S MARKS

When Experience and Understanding Matters

Affordable Funeral Packages Personal Caring Attention

24 hour care line

9623 0365

Jeff & Catherine, caring for families in the district for over 20 years.

Prepaid Funeral Plans Available

Shop 3/211 Queen St, St Marys www.compassionatefunerals.net.au

Because we care .

S SITTING in the pub th the other Friday` ((surprise, surprise) when a few of us started talking about the greatest grand final teams in the history of rugby league in this country.

Naturally most of my companions had the wobbly boot on at that stage of the day - six-ish - I could see my host at the North Richmond Hotel, Richard Petherick, looking at us thinking:”Oh for the days of the six o’clock swill when I could turf that lot right now!”

But I digress!

Naturally most of the fellas plumped for a team from the club they supported – except of course for The Wad, who barracks for Cronulla (ha ha).

I think I plumped for the South Sydney Rabbitohs side of 1970, and I remember a few Panthers supporters being adamant their side of 1991 would have to be the best.

I think, ‘cause Friday night is kick back and relax night after a busy week so a fair few more Bella Lagunas were downed before I hit the snore button.

And I’ve come up with three teams, which to my mind are stand-outs when

thinking about the best grand final winners.

They are the St George Dragons side of 1965, the Rabbitohs’ 1970 outfit and the Manly-Warringah team in 1972.

St George beat a young Souths line-up 12-8, the Rabbitohs tossed a star-studded Manly 23-12 and the 72’ Manly side then defeated a powerful Easts team 19-14.

Let’s have a look at each of the lineups: St George 1965: Graeme Langlands, Eddie Lumsden, Reg Gasnier, Billy Smith, Johnny King, Brian Clay, George Evans, Johnny Raper, Norm Provan, Elton Rasmussen, Kevin Ryan, Ian Walsh, Robin Gourley.

Gourley was an Irish Rugby convert having represented his country, George Evans was a smart halfback in an era of quality scrum-feeders but the rest of the players played either Test matches or were Kangaroos.

And people, I must remind everyone that you are only a Kangaroo if you go on a Kangaroo tour – not because you have played for Australia in a Test match. Got that!

South Sydney 1970: Eric Simms,

Mike Cleary, Arthur Branighan, Paul Sait, Ray Branighan, Denis Pittard, Bobby Grant, Ron Coote, Gary Stevens, Bob McCarthy, John O’Neill, Elwyn Walters, John Sattler.

Of this superb outfit, only Arthur Branighan, himself a quality centre, didn’t either play Tests or go on a Kangaroo tour.

Manly 1972: Graeme Eadie, Ken Irvine, Ray Branighan, Bob Fulton, Max Brown, Ian Martin, Denis Ward, Mal Reilly, Terry Randall, Alan Thomson, John O’Neill, Fred Jones, Bill Hamilton.

Reilly is regarded as the best Pommies to have ever played in our major competition – and those players include the likes of Bill Ashurst, Cliff Watson, Graeme Lowe, Mick Stephenson, Dick Huddart, David Bolton and the current mob out running around. Only Brown and Martin didn’t play a Test or became a Kangaroo.

Food for thought. I said that to The Wad once and he didn’t have a clue what I was talking about. Still doesn’t!

SAD MARKS: The passing of Robin Williams. His talent touched us all. So very sad!