Nepean News 21 June 2024

Bateman Battersby Law Bursary winner announced

PENRITH High School’s Pranavan

Prakash wins the 34th Bateman Battersby Law Bursary.

Pranavan completed the HSC in 2023 achieving an ATAR of 98.70 and has been admitted to the University of New South Wales to study for a combined Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws degree.

The Bateman Battersby Law Bursary has been awarded since 1990. It was instigated by the partners of Penrith legal firm Bateman Battersby Lawyers to encourage high school students in the Penrith and Blue Mountains local government areas to undertake legal studies at a tertiary level and to assist them financially in their initial year of legal study.

exists in the high school students of Western Sydney”.

Many of the previous Bursary winners have achieved great success in practising Law in a variety of fields, working in high level management positions in both the private and public sectors and teaching law at universities both in Australia and overseas.

Firm partner John Bateman stated: “All of our 34 Law Bursary winners have exhibited the immense depth of talent and capacity that

As the 34th winner of the award, Pranavan was presented with the Bateman Battersby Bursary trophy and bursary winner’s cheque by firm partners John Bateman and Michael Battersby.

Applications for this year’s Bateman Battersby Law Bursary are now open and more information and an application form can be found at: www.batemanbattersby.com.au/about/ bateman-battersby-law-bursary/

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

OVER 300 Australians were recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia recently in the Kings Birthday Honours List. As I scrolled through the list, to my delight I spotted a Mr Robert Gregory Simms.

Better know to most of us as the fabulous Uncle Greg!

I’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths many times over the years with this remarkable man, and I’m so excited that Uncle Greg’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. This award is a testament to his dedication and hard work over the years. Here’s a snapshot of the work he is being recognised for:

For service to the Indigenous community of Western Sydney.

Western Sydney University

• Member, Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee, current.

• Aboriginal Elder on Campus, current.

Community

• Aboriginal Elder, Gundungurra People and Gadigal Tribe of the Dharug Nation, Western Sydney.

• Traditional Woodcarver, Storyteller and Educator.

• Member, Mt Druitt and District Reconciliation Group.

• Elder, Koori Court Parramatta, since 2015.

• Community Liaison Officer, Ability Options, Mt Druitt, 2016-2018.

Awards and Recognition include:

• Community Award, Western Sydney University, 2014.

Congratulations, Uncle Greg! This medal is a recognition of your tireless work and the positive impact you’ve had on so many lives. Your dedication to preserving and promoting Indigenous culture and supporting the community is truly inspiring. Well done!

12 year old boy charged over alleged armed robberies in St Clair

A12 year old boy appeared in court this week, charged following two alleged armed robberies in St Clair on Sunday night.

About 8.45pm on Sunday 16 June 2024, police were told a person entered a tobacconist on Melville Road, St Clair, allegedly demanding money and vapes before threatening the attendant with a knife.

The boy left the store with vapes and an energy drink.

The employee was not injured.

About 10pm, police will allege the same person has entered a service station on Banks Drive, St

Clair, allegedly demanding cash and cigarettes and threatening the store attendant with a knife.

He left the store empty handed and the employee was not injured.

Following inquiries officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command arrested a 12-year-old boy near Alpine Circuit, St Clair.

He was taken to Penrith Police Station and charged with robbery armed with offensive weapon and demand property with menaces with intent to steal.

He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Childrens Court.

Community Building Partnership projects announced

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE electorate of Penrith has secured $295,143.00 in funding for a total of nine projects through the NSW Government’s 2023 Community Building Partnership Program.

Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM said the State Government funds will deliver much-needed improvements to local facilities including that of Mama Lana’s Community Foundation for the purchase of a walkie reach stacker forklift. Mama Lana’s Community Foundation is successful in securing $25,000.

positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes.

“This is fantastic news for Penrith,”

Mrs McKeown said.

“This grassroots funding will directly help create a more vibrant and inclusive local community with

The funding will also assist improvements to local facilities including that at Penrith Citizens Youth Clubs Penrith for wall mounted fans to the main hall with a successful grant amount of $25,760.

“I congratulate all the organisations that were successful in their application and look forward to seeing how these projects make a real difference for community groups in the area.” The Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 19,700 community projects since it commenced in 2009. For more information, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbp

Improving the Russell Street Connection to the M4

NEW signage and updated line markings have officially made the connection from Russell Street to the M4 motorway eastbound easier and clearer for motorists in Emu Plains and Leonay.

These community-driven improvements will help motorists navigate the merge into one lane on approach to the M4 and remind motorists where to give way to traffic coming from the left. The upgrade was initiated after the community expressed concern about their experience on this stretch of road, and after listening to their concerns,

Transport for NSW have now improved road signs and line markings.

Improvements included relocating Give Way signs and line markings to better define the intersection and adding a merging traffic sign to prepare motorists for the upcoming merge. Transport conducted an analysis of this stretch of road, which supported the minor improvement work to make it easier for motorists to navigate.

“Minister for Roads the Hon John Graham MLC attended an onsite meeting with me to see first-hand the issues being raised around the Russell Street

connection,” said Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith.

“Transport for NSW have listened to the community’s concerns about travelling through the Russell St/M4 onramp and have reviewed and invested in improvement works.

“We know this merge caused concern for motorists, and I thank the community for raising these concerns. “This is an excellent example of how our local community has been able to make a difference – helping to improve safety on the roads we use every day.”

More parking along the Nepean River

THE 90-space car park at Regatta Park will open this week, making it even easier for people to enjoy the recreational precinct.

The car park is centrally located within Regatta Park for convenient access to the adventure playspace, picnic and BBQs areas, multi-use lawn space and much more.

It includes two accessible spaces and can be accessed via River Road.

The new car park is a small piece of the much larger Regatta Park project which falls under the Western Parkland City Liveability Program.

The Regatta Park project is jointly funded with $21.69 million from Council, $7.5 million from the Australian Government and $7.5 million from the New South Wales Government.

Outdoor fitness equipment, a central staircase leading to the river foreshore, junior cricket oval, pavilion with undercover water play, amenities building and a kiosk, and precinct-wide landscaping and tree planting will be completed in late

2024, weather permitting.

Find out more at yoursaypenrith. com.au/regatta-park

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said the additional parking means more people can spend longer enjoying everything the Nepean River has to offer.

“The Regatta Park car park is steps away from the river foreshore, Great River Walk, and plenty of fantastic local cafes and restaurants along the Nepean River,” Cr Carney said.

“A new shared path connecting Regatta Park to the Bridge-to-Bridge

loop is also being constructed to improve people’s ability to access the Nepean River which is a critical component of the Our River Masterplan.”

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said western Sydney is a pivotal piece of the future of our nation, with a growing population, diverse community and economic opportunity.

“We are pleased to work in partnership with the NSW

Government and Penrith City Council to deliver this quality community space for locals and visitors to this beautiful region,” the Minister stated.

“This will foster community connections and boost liveability by allowing locals to make better use of the Nepean River foreshore.”

NSW Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully added that the car park upgrade will provide greater community access to both Regatta Park and the Nepean River.

“The Nepean River is a hugely popular attraction now for locals and visitors, and this new investment will allow more people than ever to sample the many activities on offer,” he said.

“This essential infrastructure project will encourage more families to get out and enjoy the parklands, while also improving street parking in neighbouring roads.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said it was great to see this latest piece of the Regatta Park project complete.

“The parking will help encourage more residents and visitors to enjoy the activities and sights of the Nepean River,” Mrs McKeown said.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown and Mayor of Penrith Todd Carney in the Regatta Park car park.

BY KERRIE DAVIES

Thousands raised for medical research at gala event

BY KERRIE DAVIES

IWAS very honoured to represent Nepean News recently when I was asked to be a judge in the Mother of The Year award at the Nepean Foundation’s Annual Mothers Day Ball.

Presented by the Penrith & Nepean Rotary club, the soldout event was held at St Marys Band Club last month.

The focus was to raise awareness and funds to assist in furthering medical research, clinical innovation and staff education and training which is supported by the Nepean Foundation for our community.

There were amazing raffle and auction prizes, and the fabulous rock band, The Frocks had everyone on their toes! The MC for the night was former Minister and Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, who is now the CEO of UDIA.

There were four finalists for the The Mother of the Year and it was a tough decision for myself and fellow judges Andrew Paech from Westcare and former Senator Marise Payne.

The winner was Chantal Faulkner, who was nominated by her daughter Tenesha.

Tenesha has spent many years in and out of hospital and said her mother has been by her bedside for in excess of 20 surgeries. Congratulations to Chantal!

Those in attendance dug deep for a great cause and raised a whopping $48,000!

The major sponsor on the night was St Marys Diggers and Band Club. The applause was thunderous when the Band Club’s CEO, Marlene Shipley announced further support with a $10,000 donation taking the total funds raised to $58,000!

Special thanks go out to Joh Dickens from Rotary and the support given by members of Penrith and Nepean Rotary.

The Nepean Foundation is extremely honoured to have been afforded the support given in raising these much-needed funds.

ILEFT OF FIELD

S it just me, or are people driving like maniacs of late? Like coma-like affected zombie boneheads?

The other day I was driving, singing (really poorly, might I add), doing the speed limit as you do when you’re a law-abiding citizen, when this w – anchor screams past me in the breakdown lane, on the left. Spewing rocks and debris all over my car, he ends up at the next set of traffic lights. I am sitting at the red lights, looking proudly at him, thinking, “Dude, you just used $30 of fuel and got nowhere” Well done!

I didn’t really just think that, I was saying something more sinister but it’s totally unprintable here, so that is the watered-down version. I then, of course, proceeded to give him the universal signal of loving birds with

Financing your Solar System

HAVE you found yourself in the predicament where you know Solar will help you save on your everyday household costs; yet you dread getting the next electricity bill, but you don’t have the spare cash to put toward a getting one installed? There has always been finance available and over the years I have

a smile on my face. The lights turned green, and it’s like a rolling start at Bathurst 1000, and he screams off like he has lights and sirens on his car and heading to the emergency department at the local hospital. Only for me to catch up at the next set of red lights and my facial expressions continue on repeat, and so on and so forth.

So the next bonehead is the amber light runner — yep, we all know the ones who think amber lights are a ticket to put the accelerator down and drive through at 200 km an hour when, in actual fact, it is a $515 ticket and three demerit points (Yes true) I am just answering the voice in your head that just said, “Really, I didn’t know that.”

Annnnnd the next person is the Red lighter, yep the imbeciles that go straight through the red light without

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

a care in the world, it’s like being on the set of the Dukes of Hazzard in the scene where they jump over a river and land on the other side of the bridge. Pretty similar!

I often wonder what goes through these people’s minds at the time of a red light. Do they think wow, I have got this as the other set doesn’t change for 1.2 seconds, or do they think, hey, I drive a V8, it will get through. Or are they simply, (and I am sorry, these people don’t deserve my terminology of bonehead) are they simply an imbecile. If this was a multiple choice example we would tick D – All of the above.

Then (pant pant), you have the mobile phone person at the lights, you know, the person you have to beep at, so you actually make it home before the year 2025 hits.

So here is the next burning question, and I know that this is totally off track. Did you know that each day after a shower or bath, we humans wipe ourselves dry with a towel the same way each time? Yeah, I know it’s totally off-topic, but I just had a shower, so it’s a recall memory.

Well, here’s one for you, are you a beep beep person on the car horn or a beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeeep! My thang is the severity of the incident. Usually, an idiot on their phone at traffic lights for me is a beep, beep.. whereas my wonderful and forgiving husband is a beeeeeee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee ep! And then %%#$$$$$, with that universal hand signal again.

So, there you have it – the traffic light boneheads- we are surrounded by them, unfortunately!

Jim’s Gems

seen plenty of ad’s spruiking ‘interest free’ packages where the interest costs are really rolled up into the costs of the systems - I have never been a fan of these but there have been other options such as personal loans, adding to your mortgage etc.

Now there is an opportunity to take up a subsidised loan courtesy of the Federal Government.

A couple of weeks ago, the Federal Government’s Green Bank allocated $60 million to provide low-interest green loans aimed at financing residential energy efficiency upgrades, including high-performance electric appliances and “battery-ready” solar installations for existing Australian homes.

Starting June 5, 2024, Plenti, in partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), will offer green loans with interest rate discounts of up to 2.74% per annum. Customers who sign up for a virtual power plant through Plenti’s

GreenConnect platform can receive an additional 0.6% discount, making the total available discount up to 3.4% annually. This could save households up to $3,531 in interest over seven years on a $25,000 loan compared to Plenti’s standard green loan rate.

Even better you could have a 10kW/10kWhr Solar and Battery Storage system supplied and installed, connected and running with-in weeks costing around $50.00 a week over 10-years, all with only a $350.00 establishment fee, and should you decide to pay out the loan earlier there are no break costs!

The savings in your electricity costs could be more than the repayments and considering any future electricity price increases, these savings will only improve further.

My company, Nepean Solar Solutions has already partnered with Plenti, and signing up with them is straightforward. They offer a proven

track record in delivering government programs and providing clean energy solutions to consumers. With Plenti’s broad distribution, proven technology, and experience, you can confidently access the new Green Loans through them but remember this new offer is limited.

How to Get Started? Call us on 4760 0809 and speak to one of our experienced team members.

Five nurses who profoundly changed mental health in NSW

CUMBERLAND Hospital is the largest mental health facility in New South Wales (NSW) and the oldest in Australia, with a strong history of incredible nurses who have significantly influenced mental health care across 175 years.

This year marks 175 years since Cumberland Hospital was gazetted on 28 December 1849.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is recognising the special place the hospital holds in the district by acknowledging past achievements and moments of historical significance, while also looking to the future.

In honour of International Nurses Day on 12 May, The Pulse has taken a deep dive into the rich history of nursing at Cumberland Hospital by looking back on the careers of five nurses from Cumberland Hospital who have profoundly changed mental health in NSW.

Please note: Over time, Cumberland Hospital was previously known by names such as Parramatta Female Factory, the Lunatic Asylum and Hospital for the Insane. These are used below as they are the historically accurate names for the site, but do not at all reflect current mental health treatments in Australia.

Matron Elizabeth Statham

Elizabeth was formerly the matron of the convictera Parramatta Female Factory and was then the first Matron of the Lunatic Asylum, Parramatta from 1847 to 1865. Elizabeth was responsible for managing female staff, patients and areas set aside for women.

Matron Jane Burn

In 1865, Mrs Jane Burn replaced Elizabeth Stratham as Matron of the Asylum, and was the

Matron for an incredible 27 years until 1892. She presided during a key moment, with the change of name from the Parramatta Lunatic Asylum to the Hospital for the Insane, Parramatta.

Matron Francis Spencer

Francis was the first Matron who was a formally trained Nurse, having undergone her education under the Nightingale system at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London. She was matron from 1892 – 1893, and in 1899 she was involved in the monumental establishment of the Australasian Trained Nurses’ Association (ATNA).

Nurse Rebecca “Becky” Williams

In August 1911, Becky was one of only two graduates from Parramatta to sit the first Registration Examination for Mental Health Nurses conducted by the newly formed ATNA, receiving her certificate on

5 September 1911. During WW1 she volunteered her services and joined the Australian Imperial Force, and in 1915 she left Sydney aboard the R.M.S ‘Morea’ as a staff Nurse.

Ruby Buchanan

Ruby was a nursing sister around 1907 – aside from her everyday nursing duties, she would have helped to organise and run activities provided for the patients’ entertainment and emotional well-being, including balls, musicals and picnics. Nurses like Ruby engaged in their everyday nursing duties, as well as engaging in occupational and diversional therapy.

This year, as we honour the dedicated and compassionate staff across our district, we also reflect on the incredible Nurses who have come before, pathing the way to a bright new chapter.

NSW Budget: Building Homes for New South Wales

THE Minns Labor Government will deliver up to 30,000 new homes with an unprecedented intervention in the housing market by leveraging surplus government land and public housing construction to build more homes more quickly.

Housing affordability and availability is the biggest single pressure facing the people of New South Wales.

In fact, a US study released just last week has found Sydney is among the least affordable cities in the world.

Without action now, we are at risk of being a city with no young people. The NSW Labor Government has been working on a comprehensive plan to address the housing crisis.

Having a safe home is foundational to a person’s wellbeing, and the 2024-25 NSW Budget is a blueprint to build the housing the people of New South Wales need.

Building Homes for New South Wales

The NSW Government will deliver up to 30,000 well-located homes, close to infrastructure and transport, with amenities and work opportunities, with surplus land to be made available for housing over the next four years.

The NSW Government has been conducting an audit of government land to identify surplus sites that are suitable for social, affordable or market housing.

This audit has identified an initial 44 sites not being used by government that are suitable for housing.

In many cases these sites have been left unused for years despite being located close to transport and other essential infrastructure.

The Government will make these sites available for housing with Homes NSW and Landcom, the government’s developers, to have the first choice of sites for the delivery of social, affordable, essential worker and market housing.

Other sites will be developed into housing in partnership with the private sector.

The Government will explore options to accelerate the delivery of housing on surplus sites where housing is to be developed in partnership with the private sector.

Measures will be determined on a site-by-site basis and may include streamlined planning processes, conditional contracts of sale or project delivery agreements.

Any proceeds from these sites will be reinvested into new public housing construction.

The locations of these sites will be made public over the coming weeks and months as they are transferred to housing delivery agencies or brought to market.

Building safe, affordable and accessible homes for New South Wales

The New South Wales Government will invest $5.1 billion to deliver new public housing that will prioritise at least half of the homes built for victimsurvivors of family and domestic violence.

This is the biggest investment in public housing in NSW history. This program will build 8,400 public homes.

18,255 people or 38 per cent of those seeking specialist homelessness services in 2022-23 reported family and domestic violence as the main reason they were seeking assistance – higher than any other category – but tragically close to half of those were turned away because of a lack of accommodation support.

In a major step to help those escaping family and domestic violence, the Government will prioritise over 50 per cent of new homes built for women and children fleeing family and domestic violence.

Opinion: It’s time for Luddenham

FOR the last 55 years, Luddenham Village Residents have had uncertainty hanging over their heads since the airport was first talked about and its now 38 years since the airport was officially announced.

Luddenham Village is the “Black Hole” in the Aerotropolis, and it is very unfair that Luddenham Village has had to wait so long to have its future finalised.

In October2021 NSW State Planning said that “Luddenham Village is likely to struggle in the medium term” without development and that “Luddenham would become less residential as buildings change to the other uses of the Agribusiness zoning.

This would decrease the population which would lead to a decline in the vibrancy and viability of the town”. The Luddenham Progress Association is demanding that NSW Government immediately implement the Luddenham Village Strategy as published 28 months ago.

The NSW Government initially advised that approval had been

delayed as flightpaths were not yet determined. After the flightpaths were released, the state government then advised that implementation could not occur until the EIS was released.

The EIS was released in 2023 yet the government still has not implemented the Luddenham Village Strategy. In fact, according to the flightpaths and the EIS, the proposed Luddenham Village development is not affected by either.

We need the approval now; we have been uncertain about our future, and it is still creating uncertainty for our community, residents and businesses. Also delaying Transport for NSW Revitalisation for Luddenham. In March 2022 the NSW Sate Planning in the Luddenham Village Interim Strategy said’ “Luddenham Village will be the historical and cultural heart of the Agribusiness Precinct. It will be a vibrant and sustainable community retaining its village character and celebrating its rich history, its vistas and views and its connection to Country. It will also embrace the future and its role to support the growth of the broader Aerotropolis as well as the Agribusiness Precinct. Willmington Road will transform into an inviting

This means, at least 3,100 vulnerable people leaving abusive relationships will have access to a new home under this program.

An additional $1.0 billion will be invested in 33,500 homes for critical maintenance to bring homes back online and prevent disrepair under this program.

The New South Wales Government is also investing over $527.6 million for emergency housing and homelessness support services, supporting vulnerable people in crisis transition into stable housing.

Building homes for essential workers in New South Wales

The New South Wales Government knows that too many suburbs have become unaffordable for our state’s essential workers, like nurses, teachers, police officers, paramedics and firefighters.

This budget includes $650.1 million to build essential worker housing.

This plan includes:

• $450 million for a Key Worker Build-to-Rent Program to be delivered by Landcom across Sydney.

• $200.1 million for key health worker accommodation across rural and regional areas of the state.

Under the Key Worker Build to Rent Program over 400 homes will be built for essential workers in metropolitan Sydney, while approximately 500 health workers will benefit in regional areas of the State.

This program will also support the Minns Labor Government’s election commitment to recruit and retain essential workers.

Building a better New South Wales

We are determined to pull every lever available to address the housing crisis, with the package outlined in this Budget being the biggest investment in public housing construction in the State’s history.

The Minns Labor government will continue to make responsible, better choices on how and where we spend the public’s money, so we can continue to our work to build a better New South Wales.

and attractive spine through the village activated by shops and businesses, creating a highly pedestrianised and cycle-friendly environment”.

We are calling on The Hon. Paul Scully MP Minister for Planning and Public Spaces to immediately approve and implement the NSW Planning recommended Luddenham Village Strategy, allowing an increase to the population to the north of the existing Luddenham Village which is outside of all the noise contours.

The State Government’s new Bradfield City is the same distance from the airport as the extension of Luddenham Village. It’s Timesince the Airport was confirmed we have had 13 Premiers of New South Wales and Australia has 9 Prime Ministers and none have confirmed the Luddenham Village future. Our residents are fed up and deserve better – we should not have to wait any longer, Its Time to approve the Luddenham Village Strategy.

CHRIS MINNS AND TREASURER

DANIEL MOOKHEY

BY WAYNE WILLMINGTON, VICE PRESIDENT LUDDENHAM PROGRESS ASSOCIATION

My family, the Willmington family, came to Luddenham in the mid 1850’s and have been an active part in the Community since. I’m not going to standby and let the Government Kill Luddenham.

Photo – St James Church Luddenham Wayne at his Great Great Grandparents and Great Grandparents Headstones.

All aboard! The Train bringing veterans together

BY KERRIE DAVIES

PAUL Pono is a local Vietnam veteran who was a National Serviceman. He has been a member of St Marys Outpost, fondly referred to as the Train, for over 20 years. Prior to joining he was treated at St John of God and was deemed ‘Totally and Permanently Incapacitated.’

I spoke with Paul’s daughter Deb, who said after his time at St John of God, he joined the Train and was quickly welcomed.

“It immediately provided a safe space for him to go and be silly and have a lot of fun, or be serious and reflective, depending on what he, or others, need at the time,” Deb said.

“The Train has given him a close community of good friends. My father did not have any ex-Army friends when I was growing up, but since joining the Train, I have realised how important it is for his mental health to be around soldiers, particularly around certain times of the year such as ANZAC Day.

“There is a shared understanding and respect among servicemen and women that creates a bond like no other. As his family, we want to do everything we can for him, but there is a level of support and understanding that we cannot provide for him - but the Train can.”

Sadly, Paul recently lost his wife of almost 50 years, which has added another layer to the challenges that he has faced. Deb said her mum, Sue, was the light of her father’s life and that it was proving to be a very difficult adjustment in his life.

“The support we have all received from the Train has been overwhelming, both immediately and ongoing,” Deb said.

“Although Dad is the member and the Train is his community, both my brother and I have also received much needed support through this difficult time, and we are so grateful.

“I have been welcomed at activities, offered many sympathetic ears and shoulders to cry on, and been given so many hugs by some truly wonderful people.”

The monthly calendar (below) is advertised in Nepean News at the end of every month and updates are also available on the St Marys RSL sub-Branch website and St Marys Outpost facebook site. The Train is a hive of activity and provides an array of activities for veterans and their families. The activities they offer and participate in at the Train deliver protective and rehabilitative support for veterans and their families. They offer DVA assistance, but more than that, they are a community of friends who have struggled in ways they all understand, and they support each other through ups and downs because of that understanding.

“The Train continues to provide Dad with structure and purpose – he is relied upon and he looks forward to attending on Mondays and Thursdays at least, as well as participating in all of the additional events and community engagements,” Deb said.

“The interaction and support he receives at the Train, as well as the socialisation and enjoyment, have all been extremely important in his healing, and maintaining his mental health, particularly as he is grieving the loss of Mum and adjusting to a new way of life.

“I am overwhelmed with pride when I see my father with younger veterans. The next generation of veterans know how ‘tough’ Vietnam veterans are, so they provide a very safe ear to talk to about mental health challenges - without judgement or misunderstanding.

“However, there is no pressure on anyone to talk about anything at all - everyone is welcome to come along and just listen to the gossip and have a laugh with some of the entertaining characters floating around!”

Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families

social outings local

each month @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train)

Exercise classes White or Gold card holders Tue and Fri @ 8.00am @ Ripples, St Marys; occasional walks from/to the Train in lieu; must meet criteria

Walk n Talk n Breakfast Veterans & family Monthly walk on local footpaths from/to the Veterans Support Centre (the Train) Breakfast provided on return

Small bus day-trips Veterans Occasional, weekday or weekend; greater Sydney area; lodge interest at Veteran Support Centre

Computer Classes Veterans and partner Thursday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners or for Photoshop classes

Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club

Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area

Packing Care Boxes Veterans 6-monthly day trip to Randwick to pack care boxes

Barefoot Bowls Veterans and partner 1st Friday of the month - mornings @ St Marys Diggers Club

Wellbeing activity for July 2024

DATE ACTIVITY

EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat

EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets

EVERY THURSDAY

EVERY FRIDAY

Wednesday 10th July

Thursday 11th July

Friday 5th July

Saturday 13th July

Wednesday 31st July

Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes

Coffee n Chat - Exercise Classes

RSL sub-Branch meet

MEAO Family Event

Barefoot Bowls

Monthly Walk’n’Talk and Breakfast

Merrie Widows

Please contact Leanne at the Outpost Veterans Support Centre (9833 4700 and vietvet@vvaastmarys.org.au) for any enquiries about any of the activities and to simply let us know you will be coming.

Paul Pono and his daughter Deb.

Honouring our MEAO Veterans and their families

BY KERRIE DAVIES

ON July 11 a commemorative service will be held at St Marys Diggers Club for veterans from Middle East Conflicts. The event will have a family focus with appreciation shown to veterans’ families for their support.

The St Marys RSL sub-Branch has worked hard to put the special event together, with the valuable assistance of Iraq veteran, Chris Ghalayini.

Chris began his enlistment with Defence in 2006. His first posting was in Townsville and was then deployed to East Timor in 2007. Whilst it is usual to decompress for six months after deployment, just three months later he was off to Iraq. Chris entered Iraq as part of a special supplementary team to help save the lives of some on the ground allies.

“In 2008 they started to organise the collapse of the Australian Defence Force from those theatres to bring them back home.,” Chris said.

“As a result the locals who assisted the ADF, and the interpreters, were left jobless and their lives were at stake. They were what you’d call the informants working a lot with the Coalition.

“The Dept of Immigration and Citizenship opened up a big political push through to bring some of those interpreters and their families back here. I went there as an interpreter to assist and screen the families to help the Department bring them back.”

It didn’t go unnoticed to that 23 year old Chris was very eager and always offered over and above in his work - and he was transferred to Baghdad to complete more work. What was initially a month and a half long assignment turned into a six month deployment.

“I was 23 at the time, I wasn’t married and I was just focussed on the job,” Chris said. “The end result was to bring back some locals from Iraq and grant them citizenships here in Australia. That was the team I was part of.

Chris reflected that it was very intense at times.

“You really saw the vulnerability side; they’re in a war torn country and packing up their whole lives. They can only bring immediate family so they’re saying goodbye to family and loved ones. It was heart-breaking to see. It was bittersweet for them because they’re seeing their children going somewhere safe.”

Once Chris returned he completed courses driving boats and pursued his interest in becoming a Marine Specialist. He spent the next seven years in various roles involved in insertion methods, protecting the coast and counter terrorism.

“I loved it. We never worked off the clock, we worked until the job was done.” Chris said.

In the years following, Chris worked in a Commando unit, uplifting his young family at times to move for the job.

At the end of 2016 unfortunately Chris broke his back; he sustained an an impact injury on a boat.

Did that stop Chris? Not a chance.

“I still jumped on the team again, passed all the medicals and just patched myself up wherever I could.

“In 2018 my doctor said we can’t hide this anymore, we need to jump on it. Your back is not playing the game.”

Chris medically separated from the ADF in April 2020.

These days Chris runs a business called Poseidon Seas Group. He also assists contemporary veterans adjust after life in the Defence Force.

“I know how hard that is, how you can fall into a rabbit hole. They can lose a sense of identity and feel like the system is against them.”

Chris often finds himself being a bit of a mentor, showing that anything can be achieved and to sieze new career opportunities.

Chris has displayed extraordinary courage and his resilience is remarkable. His passion for helping others, which has extended well beyond his time helping Iraqi locals escape, has been vital in helping others in the difficult transition to civilian life.

ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Decoding your dog’s body language

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS

VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

DOGS are incredible communicators, using a language that goes beyond barks and tail wags. Recognising the subtle cues in their body language is essential for building a strong and trusting bond with our furry companions. Understanding when a dog is happy, depressed, fearful, or stressed can pave the way for a closer bond with your furry friend.

A wagging tail is often associated with a happy dog, but the speed and height of the wag matters. A loose,

wide wag usually indicates a content and happy pup, whilst a stiff, high wag can signal excitement or even aggression. Pay attention to the overall body language – a relaxed posture, ears in a neutral position, and a soft expression all contribute to a genuinely happy canine.

Depression in dogs can manifest in various ways, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or withdrawal. Drooping ears, a lowered head, and avoiding eye contact are common signs. If your dog exhibits these behaviours, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Providing extra attention, engaging in gentle play, and maintaining a consistent routine can help lift their spirits.

Fearful dogs may display submissive body language, such as cowering, tucking their tail between their legs, or flattening their bodies to the ground. Avoid direct eye contact, as it can be perceived as a threat, and give them space to retreat if needed. Offering treats, speaking in a soft,

calm voice, and gradually exposing them to positive experiences can help build their confidence over time.

Stress in dogs can manifest in a variety of ways, including excessive panting, pacing, or yawning. Examine the environment for potential stressors, such as loud noises or unfamiliar surroundings. To alleviate stress, create a safe and quiet space for your dog, provide comforting physical contact, and establish a consistent routine. Consultation with a professional trainer or veterinary behaviourist may be beneficial for addressing specific stress triggers.

In any situation, it is crucial to be patient, observant, and responsive to your dog’s needs. Clear communication, positive reinforcement, and empathy form the foundation of a strong human-canine relationship. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and ample opportunities for physical and mental stimulation contribute to a dog’s overall well-being.

of a dog’s body language, we not only enhance our understanding of our four-legged friends but also create an environment where they feel secure, loved, and truly understood.

By looking into the overall picture

For assistance with your pets, please phone our friendly team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on (02) 4736 2027.

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

FRIENDS of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to

IS PRINCESS YOUR PERFECT

Princess is a sweet, friendly girl that has a lot of love to offer her new family. Being 2 years old, Princess is past the puppy stage in life but still has so much fun! She walks well on lead, enjoys her treats, will sit when asked and has a sweet nature that shines when you meet her. Princess is ready to start her new life so please come and meet her anytime during opening hours.

Cost: $99 Age: 2 Years and 3 Weeks

Type: Dog Breed: Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Sex: Female

post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and

on facebook and twitter.

DOMINIC NEEDS SOME TIME AND LOVE

Dominic is still a little unsure being in the shelter environment, he would be best suited with a family who are familiar with the breed. Dominic does walk exceptionally well on a lead. He will benefit greatly from one-on-one training, exercising and socialising to help him settle in with his new family. If you are interested in adopting this lovely boy please come to the shelter with your family dog to meet him, just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together.

Cost: $99 Age: 3 Years and 2 Weeks

Type: Dog Breed: German Shepherd Sex: Male

MEET OUR BEAUTIFUL BOY SONIC

Sonic is a beautiful, happy boy that has a vibrant energy which is on show as soon as you meet him. With a stunning smile and outgoing personality Sonic will make a wonderful companion for his new family. He can sit when asked and walks nicely on lead though further basic training would benefit him in his journey with his new family.

Sonic will do best in a home with owners that have time to exercise him daily, spend quality time with him and make him a part of their daily lives. Sonic is available now and he is ready for a fresh start so please come and meet him anytime during open hours.

Cost: $99 Age: 3 Years, 1 Month and 2 Weeks

Type: Dog Breed: Mastiff

PetRescue. To follow them, look them up

ROYCE’S RACE DAY

PENRITH PANTHERS Legend Royce Simmons hosted his race day at Penrith Panthers on Saturday. A great day was had by all in attendance. There were 5 former players there and a signed jersey was also drawn on the day. To top it off we all collected a profit from our punt, couldn’t ask for more than that! Don’t miss the next one - circle October 19 on your calendar, join in the fun and of course there is a bar so you can buy that beer to have with Roycey that he declared he wanted with every Panthers supporter back in 1991!

Legends of the Nepean CHERYL DEVINE

BY NOEL ROWSELL

CHERYL Devine is the President of the Emu Plains Lions Club, a Life Member of the Emu Plains Netball Club and a Life Member of the Emu Plains Little Athletics Club.

She was born at Penrith Hospital (the old Governor Phillip Hospital) and has lived her entire life in the Penrith district (Penrith, Emu Plains, Leonay), attending St Marys South PS, then St Marys High School (now St Marys Senior HS).

Whilst acknowledging she was never a scholar at school, Cheryl more than made up for any lack of attention in class with her performances on the athletic field.

As a student at St Marys HS, Cheryl broke the NSW Girls U15 Years 200m sprint record, which had been previously set by Australian Olympian Marjorie Jackson – the Lithgow Flash. Cheryl’s new record time of 12.7sec would stand in the the NSW Athletics book for more than 30 years.

Cheryl also broke the NSW Girls U15 Years 100m record in 1969, once again surpassing Jackson. Cheryl’s new record of 25.5 seconds would also stand in the NSW Athletics records for more than 30 years.

Cheryl also broke the NSW Girls U15 Years 400m record in 1969, again surpassing Jackson, and her new record of 59.64 seconds would stand for 12 years.

After leaving school, Cheryl continued on with Athletics, running for Fairfield Athletics Club, the closest club to Penrith with an A grade status. Those competitions were held at the Sydney Sports Ground each Saturday, and Cheryl also competed in various Athletics carnivals around NSW on Sundays.

In 1970, Cheryl was selected to represent NSW at the Australian Championships, which were held in Sydney. She was a member of the Women’s 4x100m relay, running the third leg. “I was apparently good at running the bend,” said Cheryl. “We won the event and I have an Australian gold medal.”

Cheryl was subsequently part of the

Australian training squad for the 1970 Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, along with some of the greats of the sport, including Jenny Lamy, Maureen Caird and Raelene Boyle, who joined from Melbourne. Unfortunately, Cheryl’s running career ended when she ruptured her Achilles tendon. “It was too hard to come back from that injury,” she said.

Netball was a major beneficiary of Cheryl’s enforced change of sport and she was associated with the Emu Plains Netball Club as a player for 12 years, plus as a coach and manager for approximately 35 years.

Cheryl and Jim on a raft trip in Banff

Jim & Cheryl Devine’s wedding

She also held various positions on the committee, including Vice President and Treasurer. Cheryl is still a prominent figure at the Jamison Park Netball Courts, each Saturday during the Netball season, scoring for her daughter’s team and supporting her granddaughters, who play and umpire.

Upon leaving high school, in the business side of life, Cheryl worked in the Martin Place branch of the Rural Bank of NSW, in the Accounting Department. She subsequently had various positions at a Publishing Company in Surry Hills, the classic ‘girl in the office’ role at a gyprock factory in Wetherill Park and in the Payroll office at Crane Taps, Penrith.

Cheryl was then asked by a mutual friend , Brian Parkinson, to work for him in his Real Estate office at Emu Plains. Some years later, Cheryl and her husband Jim, along with two friends, bought the business (Parkinson’s Real Estate).

After they later sold the business (being too stressful), Cheryl went to

work at another Real Estate office at Springwood, where she would retire in 2014, having spent 29 years working in Real Estate.

Cheryl had met Jim in high school, some say ‘high school sweethearts’ and they were married in 1972, celebrating 50 years of marriage in October, 2022. They have two children, Sean and Lisa, and four grandchildren.

The Devine family remained in the Penrith district, spending their first few years living in Penrith, before moving to Emu Plains. “My grandmother Thelma told me I was coming home, as after marrying Ernest Dukes, she had also settled in Emu Plains,” said Cheryl. “My mother Norma Dukes was born in the family home at Jamison Street. She married my dad Jack Turner, also a local boy, living in Penrith.

“My beloved Jim now has Parkinsons Disease, 16 years on, and we are members of the Nepean Blue Mountains Parkinson’s Support

Cheryl Devine was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Vivienne Ross.

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

Group (NBMPSG), where we attend monthly meetings and catch up for coffee with friends we have made within the group.

“Jim and I are also members of the Emu Plains Lions Club, which he joined in 2013 and is currently Treasurer. I was always in the background supporting him with his Lions work until 2019, when I also became a member. I have previously held the position of Treasurer and I am now the club President (since 2022). It is very rewarding to assist our community especially those who are struggling.

‘I am very proud to be only the second female to hold the position of President in our club and I was very pleased to be part of the organising committee which recommenced the Emu Plains Anzac Day Community Service. This was very important to me to assist with this day, as my dad Jack Turner was a Vietnam Veteran and my grandfather Robert Henry Turner a Rat of Tobruk.

“Jim and I love to spend time with our family, all of them are very keen Panthers supporters and Sean, our son, was ball boy for the Panthers for three years, from 1985-1987. Maybe this is where it started, as we drove him and watched all the games during this time. We were season ticket holders for more than 30 years, but now cheer on the boys from our recliners at home.”

Vivienne Ross, Carer and current Group Leader / Volunteer of the NBMPSG said “Cheryl is passionate about many causes, which has led her to her current role as President of the Emu Plains Lions Club. She is truly a “pocket rocket”, possessed with boundless energy and a thirst for making a difference in her community. I met Cheryl when she and her husband Jim joined my Parkinson’s Support Group several years ago. Since then I have seen her photograph regularly in the local newspapers, documenting her Lions Club’s busy schedule of charity events. Cheryl is an absolute legend, and deserves recognition for her tireless work for others.”

Netball family

Panthers fans

Brooks Social Motorbike Ride

IN support of the Black Dog Ride, get set for a local motorcycle event on Sunday, 23rd June 2024. The event begins at 9 am, with the last bike departing by 10 am. Riders will meet at Brooks Jordan Springs, located at 3989 Lakeside Parade, Jordan Springs, to embark on an unforgettable journey to the Plough & Ale at 10 Connection Rd, Calderwood, NSW.

The ride promises a scenic 127 km route, taking approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes. This event is more than a ride; it’s collectively raising awareness. Upon arrival at the Plough & Ale, participants can relax and enjoy a delightful lunch at their own cost.

After lunch, riders will make their way back to Brooks Jordan Springs, where the event will conclude with exciting raffles and thank you speech. This gathering offers a wonderful opportunity to win fantastic prizes and reflect on the day’s adventures with new and old friends.

Registration for this event is $30 for individual motorcycle riders and $40 for those with a passenger. The registration fee includes an egg and bacon roll upon arrival, ensuring riders start their day with a full belly. It will be a great event full of community spirit.

For more information and to register, please contact Rebecca Passlow at 02 4711 33880 or rebecca. passlow@brooksjordansprings.com. au. Early registration is encouraged to secure your spot and ensure a smooth start to the event.

Don’t miss out on this exciting day of riding, camaraderie, and community. Mark your calendars and get ready for a memorable adventure. We look forward to seeing you there, ready to ride for a very worthy cause and make lasting memories!

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

INSTRUCTIONS

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

OUT N ABOUT

To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au with Malama

Explore all the flavours of Penrith Producers on Friday 21 June!

Bring your appetite for delicious food and drinks from:

• Lambda Sydney • Authentic Turkish Gozleme

• Sift’d • Fritzs Wieners Sydney West • In a Box

Bia’s Sweet Savoury & Splendid Treats Unwind, eat and play. Bring your family and friends and enjoy a night out in your local city.

Penrith Producers Friday 21 June, 5pm-9pm Triangle Park & High Street (west of Station Street)

For more information go to www.penrith.city/penrithproducers

Blaxland Glenbrook Probus Club meets at 10.00 am on the fourth Friday of each month at Emu Sports Club, 1 Leonay Parade, Leonay. Meet new people and hear an interesting speaker. Visitors warmly welcomed. For more information probusblaxlandglenbrook@gmail.com or visit www.probussouthpacific.org/ microsites/blaxlandglenbrook

St Marys Town Centre is dedicated to integrating art into our town’s landscape, as demonstrated by our most recent installation at Oceanarium Aquarium. They appreciate the support of Lam, the business owner, in allowing them to utilise his window for the artwork, which was expertly designed by Taiya - Awol Creations.

Rooby Roo - Paint Penrith REaD will be back at St Marys Village on Thursday 11 July from 10am till 12pm. So pop in, join in the fun, and enjoy a free coffee on St Marys village Centre!

Nepean Evening VIEW Club thanks our generous community Nepean Evening VIEW Club held a very successful cake stall in May thanks to the generosity of the Penrith and Nepean communities together with North Penrith Bunnings. VIEW Clubs are the community fundraisers for The Smith Family. The club supports five disadvantaged Australian students and the money raised will allow the students to continue accessing the Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program. Our next fundraiser will be a Trivia Night in August.

For more information about Nepean Evening VIEW Club contact nepeanview@ gmail.com or visit www.org.au

Nepean Evening VIEW Club meets the third Monday of the month at 7pm at Penrith Panthers, Mulgoa Road, Penrith.

Early Floods in the District

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

THE floods in the district in the early 1860’s was catastrophic back then. The papers reported that in Penrith in February 1860 the flood washed away three of the telegraph polls on the Nepean bridge and a good deal of the wire. In the May flood it was said to have been higher than known and by June 1864 it was noted that St Marys was the place with the heaviest flood ever known by the oldest inhabitants with so many residents suffering, but the residents of the Page and Hackett families had lost most by the overflow of the South Creek banks. The lowlands at Dunheved and Llandilo that had been cultivated, lost its topsoil completely and washed away and destroyed the promising crops. Fences and cottages in many places were also washed away. The South Creek railway bridge stood the test well with great credit given to Messrs Peto and Co. (Sir Samuel Morton Peto along with Thomas Brassey and Edward Ladd Betts executed several railway lines in Australia, including the western line.) By July a meeting was held in the Penrith Courthouse to assist in relieving those sufferers compacted by the floods and about fifty people were present. Reverend Brennan moved that James “Toby” Ryan, Esquire (M.P) take the chair that was seconded and carried. “Toby” then explained the object of the meeting and expressed the opinion that fortunately there was not so much distress in the immediate locality as there was among their neighbours higher up and lower down the river, but in the event of there being no distress among them it was still the duty of all those who had but little to come forward and share that little with the many who were in great distress in other districts. Letters were then read from various persons in the district, including one from the Secretary of the St Marys Agricultural Distress Committee that was addressed to Reverend Brenan and containing a cheque for £45. Reverend Brennan was then called upon to move the first resolution and said that distress from the recent floods exists in this district of the Nepean and that this meeting sympathises with the sufferers. The Reverend gentleman talked at some length of the opinion of some residents that no distress prevailed in the district, and he also warmly iterated on the wretched disunion that prevailed throughout the district, that prevented them from cooperating for the attainment of any object in common. John King Lethbridge seconded the resolution that was carried by those present. It was moved by the Reverend Elijah Smith and seconded by George Neale that a Committee of gentlemen with power be formed to add to their numbers for the purpose of investigating individual cases of suffering and to collect subscriptions for their relief. These men of the district were- James Tobias Ryan, Messrs:- William D Matthews, Dr Willmott, Duxbury & Kerr, Donald Beatson, George and James Landers, Thomas Smith, T Pike, J Wallis, John Guild,

George Neale, W Wood, William Dowling and W Roberts, all was “Carried”. Dr G T Clarke said that he had a resolution to propose to the meeting, that the trust would be “carried” and he was aware that the resolution had not emanated from the convener of the meeting, and in submitting it he did not do so with the view of creating anything like dissension, but from his firm belief that some resolution of this kind was necessary. The resolution he put forward was “that no assistance be rendered in money but that the Committee be authorised to supply food, clothing and agricultural implements to every necessary applicant as far as the funds will permit.” The Reverend T W Unwin seconded the resolution and cordially agreed with the remarks of Dr Clarke. Mr G Sanders said that he did not agree with the resolution and he thought that they should not tie the hands of the Committee but should leave the Committee free to act and he could conceive of cases where a little money would be very acceptable to the distressed families and the very best possible way of relieving their distress. He said that for instance, a distressed family might be overtaken by sickness and as doctors did not work for nothing, a little money would enable them to obtain proper medical aid, and he therefore begged to move his resolution as an amendment that the expending of the funds be left entirely to the discretion of the Committee. Mr Young seconded the amendment and Reverend Brennan, E Smith, Dr Willmott, Mr Lethbridge and the chairman supported the amendment. After Dr Clarke had replied to the amendment and resolution it was put to the meeting when the former was declared to be “carried”, but only three hands were held up. Next it was proposed by Dr Willmott and seconded by Mr Lethbridge that Mr Brooks act as Secretary to the Relief Committee that was “Carried”. It was also proposed by Mr J K Lethbridge and seconded by Mr G Neale that Mr W Roberts Esq be requested to sit as Treasurer of the Penrith Flood Relief Fund and that an account be opened in the Bank of NSW for the receipt of all subscriptions on behalf of the fund which was “Carried. The subscription lists were handed around the Courthouse meeting where the sum of £95 was collected along with the £45 received from the St Marys Agricultural Distress Fund, and as a working Committee having been appointed, a vote of thanks was given to the Chairman (“Toby”) and the meeting adjourned. One or two applications for relief had been made and it was the opinion of many at the meeting that more money will be collected in the district that will be required and that the surplus was to be forwarded to the central Committee. (PS- Toby Ryan was elected to Parliament in March 1870 and continued to stand as a member of the NSW Legislative Assembly up to February 1872).

Source: Sydney Morning Herald

CROSSWORD

Fought (8)

One of a kind (6)

Boring (8)

 Drawing and information of “Toby” Ryan courtesy of Parliament of NSW website.

Historic Hat-Trick: Jess Fox dominates at World Cup

BY NOEL ROWSELL

REIGNING

world champion

Jessica Fox

OAM will take winning form into the Paris Olympics, after taming an unruly Krakow course to take the Women’s Kayak (WK1), Canoe (WC1) and Kayak Cross titles at the International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup.

Jess’ feat of three gold medals at one World Cup meet was an historic moment, the first time the feat had ever been accomplished.

The WK1 win was the first kayak gold of the season for Jess, who finished just ahead of Rio 2016 champion Maialen Chourraut of Spain.

“I’m really happy, it was such a hard race,” Jess said.

“I’m just happy I was able to put down two good runs, that was my goal here, but it was a hard course which was super tough.”

The following day, Jess notched up her 50th individual gold medal of her International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup career, with a dominant victory in the women’s canoe (WC1) Final.

The Canoe win came despite a twosecond penalty for a gate touch. Jess said she went into the race not certain if she would be able to show her best.

“I felt really tired and flat today, so I’m just happy I was able to step up when I needed to,” she said.

“It’s been a great weekend, I’m really pleased to have been able to finish off with this win.

“It was really important for me to refocus after yesterday’s win, there are so many challenges on this course.”

Jess won her first World Cup title back in 2010. This was the 9th time she has won both the Kayak and Canoe titles at a single World Cup, having won her first canoe / kayak double in 2013 in Tacen, Slovenia.

This past weekend is also the second time Jess has won both titles in Krakow.

The Kayak Cross gold medal was simply the icing on the cake, further reinforcing Jess’ status as the greatest canoe slalom paddler of all time, and also throwing down the gauntlet to her rivals at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, where she will now be hot favourite to dominate the three disciplines of Kayak, Canoe and Kayak Cross.

Following her Kayak Cross victory, Jess said “I feel incredible – this is so unexpected and I’m just so thrilled.

“You never know what could happen, especially in the Kayak Cross. My strategy was just to try and get a good start and to stay clearheaded throughout and make the right decisions.

“I took it step by step and really enjoyed myself out there. It was challenging – the final started and it was just chaos, I had to really fight and adapt the whole way.

Jess was almost speechless about her history-making feat, but said that she couldn’t be happier with how the weekend panned out.

“Winning three gold medals in one weekend had never been done before – I can’t believe I’ve just done it.

“To be able to race well in all three categories doesn’t happen very often, I’m really pleased with how I was able to put together those races today.

“It has just been the perfect weekend, I couldn’t be happier.

For me, these last three weeks have been a stepping stone on my path to Paris 2024.

“We’ll head to France now and really focus on that final stretch before the Games.”

Australian stars set to play in National Wheelchair Basketball Leagues

AUSTRALIAN Gliders

Maryanne Latu (Mt Druitt) has hit a 50-game milestone in the green and gold at the Osaka Cup in Japan in February.

Maryanne represented Australia at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, was previously a member of the junior State team and is about to play for the Sydney Blues in the Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League (WNWBL).

“My goal was always to make an Australian team and having teammates that I’ve played with for many years of my life inspires me to keep striving, especially when I come to training every day and see team-mates push their limits and give it their all, it really helps me to be on the same level,” Maryanne said.

“The first time I played wheelchair basketball, I absolutely loved it,

but I wouldn’t have made it this far without all the encouragement of all my family, friends, and staff members pushing me to achieve my goals.”

Maryanne plays in the WNWNBL with the Sydney Blues, alongside long-term Gliders team member Kyle Gauci (Mt Druitt).

Kylie is a 3-time Paralympian, winning a silver medal in Athens (2004), a bronze medal in Beijing (2008) and a silver medal in

London (2012). She has represented Australia in over 180 international games, including multiple World Championships (Kitakyushu 2002, Amsterdam 2006, Birmingham 2010), and was voted into the ‘World All-Star 5’ in Amsterdam. Kylie was also inducted into the Basketball NSW Hall of Fame in 2021.

In addition to the Sydney Blues, Kylie also plays for the Manly Wheel Eagles in the

National Wheelchair Basketball League (NWBL), which features both male and female players. Jonti Dimond (Wilberforce) is also a member of the Wheel Eagles lineup, whilst 4-times Paralympian Gerry Hewson OAM (Toongabbie) is the assistant coach. Hewson is a former Australian head coach, recipient of the Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and inducted into the Basketball NSW Hall of Fame in 2019.

The NWBL commences on 15th June, featuring the Adelaide Thunder, Perth Wheelcats, Darwin Salties, Wollongong Roller Hawks, Red Dust Heelers, Southern District Spartans and Wheel Eagles.

The WNWBL commences on 22nd June and features the Sydney Blues, Sydney Uni Flames, Queensland Comets and Perth. The Sydney Blues play out of the Parramatta Basketball Stadium, Auburn and the Sydney Uni Flames play out of Sydney Uni Sports & Fitness, Camperdown.

Courtesy of Paddle Photography / Paddle Australia

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Kylie Gauci and Maryanne Latu. Photos courtesy of Sydney Blues Wheelchair Basketball Club

Coby Carruthers a runaway winner in NextGEN Junior 6’s

BY NOEL ROWSELL

COBY Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) has recorded a runaway 8-shot victory in the latest NextGEN Amateur Tour Junior 6’s event, which was held at Bankstown GC on 1314 June.

Coby shot 70/71 over the first two rounds to hold a 1-shot lead on the field, then scorched around the course with a superb third round 67 to take the title by a clear 8 shots, ahead of Darcy Mackay (The Australian GC).

Coby also won the 18-25 Future 6’s division, whilst Darcy was the winner in the Under 18 Junior 6’s.

Former local Camilla Kim finished in 3rd spot in the Women’s division, behind runaway winner Rachel Lee. Camilla finished 2nd in the U18’s, also recording a hole-in-one in the final round, whilst Chaewon Lee (Glenmore Park / Concord GC) finished tied 7th outright and tied 3rd in the Women’s 18-25’s.

Master Pennant comes down to the wire

THE penultimate Round (5) of the 2024 Golf NSW Master Pennant was played on Sunday, with the following results (home teams listed first).

Div 1: Kogarah 6-2 over Stonecutters Ridge, Dunheved 7-1 over Castle Hill; Div 2: Springwood 4.5-3.5 over Marrickville, Lakeside Camden 6-2 over Twin Creeks CGC, Lynwood down 5-3 to Penrith,

Glenmore Heritage Valley 4-4 with Ryde-Parramatta; Div 3: Richmond won 6.5-1.5 over Wallacia, Kareela down 5-3 to Leonay.

Irrespective of results in the final round this Sunday, both Twin Creeks and Penrith have each wrapped up their respective Section titles in Division 2.

Stonecutters Ridge will need an away win or tie against Cabramatta

to win their Section. Dunheved need to defeat Castle Hill away from home and rely on Liverpool defeating Mona Vale or securing a tie. Richmond and Leonay are both chasing the Division 3, Section 3 title and both clubs need big wins to strengthen their percentages. It promises to be a very close photo finish for their Section title.

Next week’s final games of the

preliminary rounds feature just three home games. Cabramatta host Stonecutters Ridge, Castle Hill host Dunheved, Marrickville host Springwood, Oatlands host Twin Creeks, Penrith host Lynwood (11am), Ryde-Parramatta host Glenmore Heritage Valley, Wallacia host Richmond (10.30am) and Leonay host Kareela. (10am).

HSRCA’s Sydney Classic attracts large fields

BY NOEL ROWSELL

TCar Association

(HSRCA) Sydney Classic enjoyed a magic weekend of historic motor racing over the King’s Birthday long weekend, with idyllic

weather conditions bringing out the fans.

The weekend featured the biggest collection of historic race and sports cars at Sydney Motorsport Park in nearly five years of action at the circuit.

More than 200 classic, historic and vintage race cars took to the track across two packed days of Motorsport.

The race meeting featured events for all historic categories and include a special celebration of Bob Britton’s Rennmax cars.

HQ Racing NSW was also featured over the weekend, taking part in an HSRCA race meeting for the first time, whilst Group N contested an endurance race before lunch on Sunday.

The full list of categories was: Group N; Group S; L, M, O & Formula Ford; Formula Vee; C & A & Invited; Q & R Sports & Racing; Regularity; Supersprint; and HQ Racing.

Full results from the weekend can be found at http://racing.natsoft. com.au/results/#2

Coby Carruthers.

Photos courtesy of Brett Costello / NextGEN

Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC)

HE 2024 Historic Sport & Race

Group N racing action from Saturday 8th June at SMSP. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Panthers mixed form yields just one win

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Panthers senior men’s and women’s basketball teams have recorded one win from four games on the weekend, in Round 10 of the NBL1 East competition.

The Penrith Men fell 105-65 to the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles on Saturday night, then fell 103-86 to the Maitland Mustangs on Sunday – both games played at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC), Cambridge Park.

The Penrith women turned in Jekyll and Hyde performances in their two games, unable to find the basket in game one against the Sea Eagles, resulting in a 63-40 loss, then hitting form and out-playing the Mustangs on Sunday for a 77-72 win.

Penrith struggled to find the net in the women’s game on Saturday night, scoring just 6, 7 and 3 points respectively in the first three quarters of the game, allowing the Sea Eagles to run up a 28-point lead. Tahlia Tupaea and Mia Heide both fouled out for the Panthers in the final

quarter and the bench players rose to the occasion, out-scoring the visitors 24-19 to bring the final margin back to 23 points.

Margaret Byrne led the Panthers with 9 points, whilst Mia Heide had 8 points / 13 boards.

The Penrith men were under the pump from the outset against the Sea Eagles, trailing 30-14, 58-33 and 8355 at the completion of the first three quarters respectively, then fell even further behind as the Sea Eagles ran up a 40-point win.

Panthers women start slowly against the Mustangs, trailing 27-13 in the first quarter. On this occasion, the Panthers finally found some welcome form, winning the second quarter 26-12 to go to the half time break deadlocked at 39-39.

The third quarter saw the visitors again regain the ascendancy to lead by 5 points at the final break but Penrith closed the game out strongly, edging ahead for a 5-point win. Tahlia Tupaea was back in scoring form and led all scorers with 37 points, ahead of Mia Heide 13 points / 14 boards and Chloe Williams 11 points.

The Penrith men again trailed through their first three quarters (2920, 55-35 and 81-58) against the Mustangs, before a last quarter surge allowed them to narrow the final margin to 17 points.

Zeke Evans led the Panthers with 24 points, ahead of Ben Kearins 17, Joshua Kalwy 11 and Brodie Schwarzer 10.

Both Penrith teams are on the road for Round 11, taking on the HornsbyKu-ring-gai Spiders on Saturday night at the Dartford Road Sports Centre, Thornleigh (The Brickpit).

Tahlia Tupaea. Photos from the Maitland games - courtesy of James O’Donohue

Brodie Schwarzer

Joshua Kalwy and Ben Kearins led the Panthers with 11 points apiece. Sunday’s first game saw the

Aussie Rowers Kings and Queens of Poznan

AUSTRALIA

were crowned Kings and Queens of Poznan, after a World Cup Gold rush on the weekend.

The Australian Rowing Team (ART) has finished on top of the medal tally at World Rowing Cup III in Poznan, Poland, claiming 11 medals out of 13 events, including six Gold.

The ART had 12 boats racing for medals on Sunday across 13 events. Six of those finished on top of the podium - the Men’s Eight, Women’s Eight (1), Women’s Pair, Women’s Double Scull, PR3 Mixed Double Scull and the Women’s Single Scull.

The Women’s and Men’s Four collected Silver, as did the second Women’s Eight crew, whilst Bronze went to Erik Horrie in the the PR1 Men’s Single Scull and the Women’s Quad Scull.

World Rowing Cup III was the last international regatta before the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the ART unfurled one of the best World Cup results in its history.

“It was a great team result,” Performance Director Paul Thompson said. “We know the competition will be deeper in Paris, however there have been improvements across all the boats since the Luzern World Cup.

“For me, the important thing wasn’t what they did but how they did it, racing with maturity and rhythm.

“The team is building momentum, and we now go back to the AIS’s European Training Centre in Italy to prepare for the Games, whilst the Para rowers fly back to Australia for their next step towards Paris.”

World Rowing Cup III: Women’s Single Scull – Gold. Tara Rigney enjoyed a commanding victory in the Women’s Single Sculls to cap off a strong pre-Paris preparation. This was

her first World Cup Gold Medal and a confidence-boosting triumph before the Olympics.

“I’m quite stoked to be winning the Gold. It was a good race. I was hoping for more lumpy conditions like yesterday to prep for Paris but Poznan turned it on and it was beautiful and flat,” Rigney said.

“I feel like I’m definitely in a good place. It’s always hard; World Cup II, when we come off the plane, it takes a while to find your feet. But honestly, I’m just having so much fun with my coach [Ellen Randell] and my training squad of the Double [Amanda Bateman and Harriet Hudson] and Kate Rowan. I laugh every day, train hard… it’s going really well.”

Women’s Eights – Gold and Silver. The AUS 1 crew of Paige Barr, Bronwyn Cox, Georgina Rowe, Katrina Werry, Jacqueline Swick, Giorgia Patten, Sarah Hawe, Lucy Stephen OAM and Hayley Verbunt (coxswain) went wire-to-wire to claim Gold.

“We executed a good start. It’s just bringing all the pieces together. We were lucky enough to have another Australian Eight, so we could have a bit more of a ding-dong battle at the end and really see how we perform under pressure,” Bronwyn Cox said. “It’s just putting it all together and seeing how it goes.”

The AUS 2 crew of Eliza Gaffney, Jean Mitchell, Olympia Aldersey, Lily Alton Triggs, Samantha Morton, Annabelle McIntyre OAM, Jessica Morrison OAM, Molly Goodman and Hannah Cowap (coxswain) won the Silver Medal.

Women’s Double Scull – Gold. Amanda Bateman and Harriet Hudson have gone strength-to-strength in this World Cup series. The duo claimed Gold by 0.29s, moving through the second-placed Norwegians in the dying stages of the race. The crew

“We did a good job and it was definitely a step forward leading into the Games. It’s always good to beat a European crew as an outsider, us and the Kiwis love taking down any European countries we can,” Bateman said.

Women’s Pair – Gold. Annabelle McIntryre OAM and Jessica Morrison OAM made it look easy, claiming the Gold in the Women’s Pair by seven seconds. The combination had clear water by the 1000m and moved away from the rest of the pack. Silver went to Ireland, followed by Denmark for Bronze.

“We’re really just practising trying to lead out a race, really get that start going. We’ve seen over the last couple of years all the boat classes getting faster and faster, so that’s something we have to adapt to as well,” McIntyre said.

Women’s Fours – Silver. Both the Men’s and Women’s Aussie Fours claimed Silver on Sunday behind Trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand. After coming sixth at World Rowing Cup II in Lucerne a few weeks ago, Silver was a step in the right direction for the crew of Olympia Aldersey, Jean Mitchell, Lily Alton Triggs and Molly Goodman.

Women’s Quad Scull – Bronze. After coming away with a sixth-place finish in Lucerne, the Women’s Quad came to Poznan with a medal in their sights. The crew of Ria Thompson, Laura Gourley, Rowena Meredith, Caitlin Cronin claimed the Bronze and will aim to keep the upwards momentum leading into Paris.

PR1 Men’s Single Scull – Bronze. Erik Horrie OAM came away with the Bronze medal on Sunday morning, behind Great Britain’s Benjamin Pritchard, followed by Giacomo Perini from Italy who claimed the Silver.

Tegan Upton battles injury for top ten placings

BY NOEL ROWSELL

PENRITH

16-year-old Tegan Upton (Emmaus Catholic College) recently competed in Trampolining at the Australian Gymnastics Championships, which were held from 18-20 May on the Gold Coast.

This was Tegan’s first time competing in the International Junior U22 and her 8th time representing NSW in trampolining.

Tegan dedicates much of her spare time training, whilst also completing her preliminary HSC studies. She has a roaring passion for Gymnastics, which is evident through her performance at Nationals.

Despite being injured, Tegan placed 9th in both the Individual Trampolining and Double Mini Trampolining categories. Unfortunately, the sudden injury impacted her performance, resulting in her missing out on finals by just half a point.

Although Tegan missed out on qualifying for the Finals, she still finished in the Top Ten for both events.

Tegan is working towards representing NSW again in 2025 and eventually representing Australia in the sport.

Tegan’s school community, family and friends are incredibly proud of her achievements, and look forward to cheering her on as she continues to reach for the stars.

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Photo courtesy of Nick Jones / Rowing Australia

from France rounded off the podium by claiming the Bronze.

Tegan Upton in action at the Australian Gymnastics Championships - photo courtesy of Chantelle Gordon (Emmaus Catholic College)

LILLYPILLY ESTATE WINES

Lillypilly

Winemaker

PANTHERS GETTING TO KNOW YOUR

Getting to know...

LINDSAY SMITH

1. What age did you start playing footy? 5

2. Favourite Song? Where the wild things are - Luke Combs

3. Apart from Bluebet Stadium what is your favourite other ground to play at? Suncorp Stadium

4. Favourite Movie? Benchwarmers

5. If not footy what would you be doing?

6. Favourite TV Series? How I Met Your Mother

7. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? Tiger Woods, Tom Brady, Michael Jordan

8. Favourite Video Game? Fifa

9. Favourite other Sport and Athlete? Cricket / Tom Brady

10. What is your death row meal? Scotch Fillet Steak with all the trimmings

Date of Birth: 13 January 2000

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Age: 24

Nickname: Larry Height: 194 cm Weight: 106 kg

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 4 June 2021 Opposition: Wests Tigers Round: 13 Previous

ON THE

5 NEW FACES FOR ORIGIN 2! MARK

THE State of Origin teams are in for game two in Melbourne which is on next Wednesday the 26th, and with it NSW coach Michael “Madge” Maguire has made 5 changes to the team that went down 38-10 in game one.

Dylan Edwards takes the place of James Tedesco at fullback. Latrell Mitchell comes in for the suspended Joseph Sua’ali’i. Nicho Hynes is out, Mitch Moses is the new halfback. Cam McInnes loses his lock spot to Cam Murray. And perhaps the biggest ‘left-field selection is that of the Roosters’ Conor Watson, who takes Hudson Young’s spot on the interchange bench.

I like theses changes a lot. Latrell when on, can be the most menacing player in the competition. Mitch Moses, apart from Nathan Cleary, has

the best kicking game in the comp. Dylan Edwards is the best ‘metre eater’ of any fullback, and Cam Murray exudes state of origin.

I also really like the Watson appointment. After having all of last year off through injury, I ran into him over Christmas up at Terrigal. We were talking about the upcoming season and how excited he was to be getting back on the field. The last thing I reckon on both of our minds would have been talking about him playing for NSW 6 months later! Dreams sometimes do come true.

Whilst “Madge” wielded the axe on those unfortunates, I think most wouldn’t have been too unhappy to see the team from game one given one more shot. Given the fact they played 73 minutes of the contest with only 12 men! But this is the cauldron

WITH MARK GEYER

that is ORIGIN. The pressure valve gets turned up to 100 once a game has been lost, and those involved in picking the team for game two have to find a way - any way - to keep the series alive.

Come next Wednesday around 10.15pm we’ll know exactly if the right reins have been pulled. COME ON YOU BLUES!

And another thing..

With 15 rounds of footy now behind us the competition ladder is getting even more “logjammed”. The Storm and Panthers are sitting atop looking ominous. The Dolphins amazingly are still in the top 4. The Bulldogs find themselves in 6th, with

the Broncos out of the 8 for the first time this season. Leaving the Eels, Tigers, and Titans slotting in to the last 3 positions on the ladder. It’s been an invigorating competition thus far with all games on a weekly basis being harder to pick the winner than a broken nose. For what it’s worth I think it will be a Penrith v Storm grand final, they are the two teams in this year’s competition which just have a way of grinding out a victory when most needed.

See you at the game….. Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes. MG (random Westie) OAM