Nepean News 21 October 2022 DIGITAL

enrith City Council has launched a new Visitor Guide – an invitation to discover positively adventurous Penrith!

Penrith Mayor tricia hitchen said that whilst the guide will be used to attract visitors to Penrith and help them plan and make the most of their stay, it is also a great way for locals to discover, or rediscover, their own adventurous City.

“it’s easy to overlook what’s in your own backyard, but with the Visitor Guide, residents can see Penrith in a whole new light,” Cr hitchen said. “it’s also a great resource to have on hand when family and friends come to stay, as it’s full of ideas for days out, great places to eat and things to see.” the new Visitor Guide provides an insider’s view of Penrith, with themed itineraries to help plan a trip or a fun day out with family and friends. it highlights a range of spectacular outdoor adventures and thrilling adrenaline attractions, uncovers fascinating historical treasures and celebrates our diverse arts and cultural scene. the guide also provides a comprehensive list of dining and accommodation options and a host of family fun activities.

Whether people are actively looking for a holiday destination, they’re already coming to Penrith for an event or to visit family and friends, the Visitor

Guide is full of information on how to get here, where to stay and inspiration for what to see, where to eat and what to do.

“Penrith is a fantastic destination,” Cr hitchen said. “the Visitor Guide highlights our strengths and showcases our diverse tourism offering. As a resident it can be easy to look elsewhere for entertainment, but the new guide is a great reminder of all the truly wonderful attractions and venues right here in Penrith.”

Be a tourist in your own City and discover positively adventurous Penrith. Printed copies will be available at the Civic Centre soon, but you can take a look online at visitpenrith.com.au

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Aussie plasma donors needed for ‘medical miracle’

AustrAliAn red Cross lifeblood is calling for 1600 donors to donate plasma every day this month, as patient need for the life-saving blood product reaches record levels.

Australia is one of the world’s largest users of plasma medicines, with thousands of people relying on them to treat life-threatening conditions every day.

Despite Australians donating more plasma than ever before throughout the pandemic, the need for new plasma donors has never been greater.

stuart Chesneau, who oversees lifeblood’s plasma program, said more than 815,000 plasma donations have been made in the past year, but thousands more were needed.

“Depending upon what is needed most by patients, we may ask our donors to switch their donation to blood or plasma. During the pandemic, many plasma donors were asked to make whole blood donations to help meet the highest demand for red cells in nearly a decade.

“As well as the need for whole blood, we need to ensure continued levels of plasma to meet the needs of Australian patients.”

Mr Chesneau said plasma was considered a modern medical miracle, because it is often the last line of defence for many health conditions.

“Plasma-derived medicines are used to treat more than 50 serious medical conditions,” he said.

“Just one of these medicines, immunoglobulin (ig), is needed by more than 13,300 Australians every month to treat acute or ongoing conditions to maintain their quality of life.

“it can take up to 15 plasma donations to make a single dose of some plasma medicines.

“in addition to the large number of medical conditions plasma is used to treat, every Australian who has had a post-exposure tetanus injection or chicken pox injection, along with every pregnant woman who receives Anti-D injections may not even realise they are plasma recipients.”

Work is underway to construct City Park in the heart of Penrith and transform the City Centre.

The 7,000 sqm park on the corner of Henry and Station Streets is set to become a vibrant, green space for residents, visitors and workers to enjoy.

It will feature a central lawn with significant tree canopy cover, themed gardens, public artwork, shaded areas, water elements including misting clusters and ponds, amenities building with green roof, seating and civic area.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the park will attract more people to Penrith’s CBD and have positive flow on effects for surrounding businesses.

“City Park will stimulate the local day and night time economy by encouraging people to venture further into the CBD and discover all the fantastic shops, cafes and restaurants on offer,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Its prime position opposite Westfield, in the City Centre, and a short walk from the station makes it the perfect spot to meet up, relax, be entertained, get active and hold community events.”

Penrith City Council is contributing $12.6 million to the project, with the NSW Government

contributing an additional $4 million through the Public Spaces Legacy Program.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP said Penrith’s new City Park, co-funded by the NSW Government, is about creating a wonderful public amenity and shared open space.

“As Penrith continues to grow this makes sure we have a fantastic green space right here in the CBD for people who live and work in Penrith,” Mr Ayres said.

“Converting this site into a beautiful central city park will provide people with a great space to gather outdoors and is a fine example of the NSW State Government and Council working together to deliver for the people of Penrith.”

Additional parking was constructed on Woodriff Street last year to offset the small section of parking lost in the development of City Park.

The Allen Place laneway is also being revitalised as part of the project. It will be widened to allow for two-way traffic and refurbished with a paved footpath, vehicle loading bay area, mountable kerb, garden beds, and trees.

City Park will open in 2023.

For more information visit: penrith.city/citypark

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen turn the first sod at the City Park site.

Ultra-fast NBN services now ready for order across Lindsay

EligiblE residential homes and businesses in parts of North St Marys, Werrington and berkshire Park can now place an order to upgrade their NbN connection to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).

These upgrades will be available on demand where a customer in an eligible premises seeks a higher speed service through their Retail Service Provider.

This will allow residents and businesses to take advantage of the faster speeds which are increasingly important in a digital society and economy.

To further expand the benefits of fibre connections, the Australian government has also committed to enabling an additional 1.5 million premises to transition from Fibre to the Node (FTTN) to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) by 2025 – a significant proportion of which will be in regional areas.

Under the Australian government’s plan:

Around 80 per cent of all regional and remote premises will have access to plans based on

wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more by late 2025. This was estimated at 33 per cent in March 2022.

93 per cent of all Australian homes and businesses will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 100 Mbps or more.

Close to 90 per cent of the NBN fixed-line footprint will have access to plans based on wholesale speeds of 500Mbps to close to gigabit speeds.

For more information on upgrade eligibility, visit www.nbn.com.au/fibreupgrade

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP said it’s about the future of Australia.

“The NBN is a key investment in the nation’s future. Since 2009, the network has kept Australians connected, supported tele-health and remote education, and boosted economic productivity by expanding access to new customers for small businesses,” Ms Rowland said.

“The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring that Australians get the full benefit of NBN’s potential by upgrading as many NBN lines to full fibre connections as possible.”

“Eligible local residents and businesses in North St Marys, Werrington and Berkshire Park will now be able to take advantage of higher speed services as a result of this announcement. Expanding fibre access will ensure Australians are at the forefront of digital connectivity and will help bridge the digital divide”.

Senator for New South Wales, Senator Tony Sheldon said it was great for the local suburbs listed.

“This announcement is an opportunity for eligible local families and businesses to enjoy the benefits of a faster, more reliable fibre connection.

“I welcome NBN Co’s commitment to supporting the families and businesses in North St Marys, Werrington and Berkshire Park, and encourage the community to check the NBN website to see whether they are eligible for an upgrade”.

International sending dates fast approaching ahead of busy festive season

AUSTRAliA Post has announced the need-to-know dates for more than 180 international destinations to help Australians sending Christmas cards and presents to loved ones overseas.

For Economy Air, many destinations require cards and gifts to be sent as early as 14 November but for international Standard and Express there is more time. if posting with international Express, some popular destinations like the USA, the UK, New Zealand and Canada should

be sent by 9 December.

Recommended last sending dates for posting within Australia will be released in the coming weeks.

Australia Post Executive general Manager, Customer and Commercial gary Starr said Australia Post had worked closely with international carriers to provide as much notice as possible so Australians give their cards and gifts the best chance of reaching loved ones in time for the big day.

“We know our last sending dates provide an important guide for people in the lead up to Christmas and we’ve been preparing all year for another busy peak season to ensure things run as smoothly as possible,” Mr Starr said.

“For anyone who wants to send internationally for Christmas this year, we’re encouraging them to visit our website and post by the dates advised.

“As always, we’ll continue to

deliver items sent after these dates as quickly as possible but they may not arrive until after Christmas.”

international sending dates vary depending on destination and may be affected by factors beyond Australia Post’s control including customs delays and overseas postal disruptions.

Customers are encouraged to stay up to date by visiting auspost.com.au/ christmas and searching by destination country for more information.

Aboriginal languages revitalised in Nsw schools

STUDENTS in NSW will soon be able to learn from the highest quality Aboriginal languages syllabus in the country with the release of a new Aboriginal languages syllabus.

Minister for Education and Early learning Sarah Mitchell said NSW is proudly home to more than 35 Aboriginal language groups, and more than 100 dialects of those languages.

“This is the first major redevelopment of how Aboriginal languages are taught in our schools in 20 years,” Ms Mitchell said.

“The new syllabus gives students valuable opportunities to learn the language of their local area and develop an understanding of Aboriginal languages and cultures.

“For the first time students who speak an Aboriginal language or Torres Strait islander language at home will be able to progress the study of that language at school.”

importantly, the new Aboriginal languages Kindergarten to Year 10 syllabus includes guidance for schools on involving Aboriginal communities and knowledge holders when introducing and teaching the syllabus.

“This provides Aboriginal communities greater flexibility around how their languages are taught.”

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs ben Franklin said Aboriginal students have a right to learn their own language in school.

“Creating more opportunities for Aboriginal students to communicate in an Aboriginal language not only strengthens their connections to country,

culture and their identity but it promotes the importance of language revitalisation and the continuation of learning,” Mr Franklin said.

“Empowering young Aboriginal people to maintain a strong sense of identity, belonging and culture and learn more about Aboriginal languages is also hugely beneficial to their overall educational and social outcomes.”

The syllabus was developed following extensive consultation with Aboriginal communities and education stakeholders.

NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative group (AECg) inc President Catherine Trindall said they are pleased to support the launch of the co-designed K-10 Aboriginal Languages syllabus.

“This syllabus has been developed from the support of our Aboriginal Community members. This allows schools to formally implement, engage and deliver Aboriginal languages across NSW and it supports the NSW Aboriginal languages Act,” Ms Trindall said.

“As President, i encourage everyone to take this opportunity to learn the first languages of Australia and to engage with and form positive working relationships with our local and regional AECgs.”

The syllabus includes guidance on how to involve Aboriginal communities when introducing and teaching the syllabus in schools, which research shows is vital to the sustainability of Aboriginal languages programs.

Key features of the new syllabus include:

• Content is now available in two language pathways: the Language Revival pathway for

students with no prior learning, and the First Language pathway for students who use the language at home. It is the first time in the NSW Curriculum, that students whose first language is an Aboriginal language or Torres Strait islander language, will have the opportunity to continue their language learning at school.

• Students develop communication skills in an Aboriginal language and understand the relationships between language, Country and culture.

• Students learn about how languages are built, and techniques used by Aboriginal language communities to do this.

• Students learn about how Aboriginal languages are being revived, maintained, and strengthened.

• New evidence-based support materials and resources are available on the Digital Curriculum to assist schools and teachers to implement the syllabus.

The new Aboriginal languages syllabus will be available for teachers to plan during 2023. The syllabus will be available to be taught in NSW schools from 2024.

All teachers have one year to familiarise themselves and prepare before each new syllabus is mandatory under the NSW Curriculum Reform, and a detailed implementation timeline has been published.

NSW remains on track to deliver a new curriculum for Kindergarten to Year 10 from 2024, with all Year 11 and 12 syllabuses delivered by 2025.

For more details about the NSW Curriculum reform, visit curriculum.nsw.edu.au

Penrith Council’s greening our parklands

Penrith City Council continues to maintain its commitment to reduce urban heat with the Greening our City tree planting program boosting tree canopy and shade at two popular parklands.

in conjunction with Council’s Greening our City Strategy, the Green Streets program is planting 5,000 trees in six of Penrith’s eastern suburbs. Council is set to further increase the City’s urban greenery with an additional 165 trees for planting in Melaleuca Park, Jordan Springs and Jamison Park, South Penrith.

All trees used in the program have been specially grown in Council’s own nursery, ensuring that they are well adapted to Penrith’s unique climate.

Penrith Mayor tricia hitchen said that addressing the problem of urban heat is critical in maintaining a sustainable way of life now and into the future and the Greening our City tree planting program is one way forward.

“Over the coming months, we will be planting trees in these locations to increase shade canopy and ensure these popular recreation spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for residents to use over the warm summer months,” Cr hitchen said.

“the Greening our City — Cooling our Parklands tree planting project will add canopy value to the 186,000 trees already planted by Council as part of its Cooling the City Strategy,” she said.

increasing green infrastructure by planting shade trees will help reduce the amount of heat energy that is stored within our hard surfaces, such as roads, and significantly reduce ambient air temperatures.

the urban heat island effect commonly occurs in urban communities and is caused by large amounts of paved and dark coloured surfaces like roads, roofs, and car parks. the sun’s heat is absorbed instead of being reflected, which causes the surface and ambient temperatures to rise. Council’s Cooling the City Strategy has identified tree planting as one of the easiest ways to mitigate this issue.

Planting locations have been carefully considered to maintain visibility of street signage and access to

driveways using a variety of native tree species to fit with existing infrastructure.

this project is part of the Greening Our City grant program and is proudly funded by the nSW Government in association with Local Government nSW.

residents can keep up to date with these treeplanting projects and provide feedback by following the Greening our City have Your Say Page at yoursaypenrith.com.au/greeningourcity

A render of Jamison Park which highlights where the trees are intended to be planted.

Smartphone app to help save lives in nSw

PeoPle in cardiac arrest will have a greater chance of survival thanks to a $2.5 million partnership between NSW Ambulance and the pioneering smartphone app GoodSAM.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the technology alerts trained responders to someone nearby in cardiac arrest, so CPR can be started before paramedics arrive.

“Most out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the home, so if a trained passer-by can provide first aid before an ambulance arrives, it could be lifesaving,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Many of the trained Good Samaritans using GoodSAM around the world, and also here in Australia, range from people with basic CPR skills through to doctors.

“If those responders are sitting in a café and someone goes into cardiac arrest nearby, this app will help them navigate their way to the scene, ahead of paramedics arriving.”

The four-year partnership between NSW Ambulance and GoodSAM will see the app integrated with ambulance dispatch and a registry set up to map nearby defibrillators.

The defibrillators could be in the back of a trained responder’s car or fixed to a wall in a building, so the public registry will allow the community to log a device’s location that could then be accessed by a responder, delivering lifesaving defibrillation earlier.

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone from young children to seniors. NSW Ambulance attended over 10,000 cardiac arrests in the 2021-22 financial year.

NSW Ambulance Executive Director of Clinical Systems and Senior Assistant Commissioner Clare Beech said many of those cases didn’t get defibrillation or CPR from people close by prior to paramedics arriving.

“When someone is in cardiac arrest, every minute without CPR or defibrillation decreases their chance of survival by 10 per cent,” Asst. Commissioner Beech said.

“NSW Ambulance always sends the closest available paramedic in an emergency but this app will allow for rapid intervention by the community, which could save your life.”

Registration for responders will begin in a phased approach over the coming months.

nepean pac welcomes new recruits

STuART AyReS MP, Member for Penrith welcomed the new probationary constables to Nepean Police Area Command after they attested at a formal ceremony at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday 14 october 2022.

“Our new police officers have chosen a career of service and will be a vital asset to the people of Penrith,” Stuart Ayres said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the new officers for their contribution and congratulate them on the start of their exciting careers.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said the newest recruits will bolster policing capabilities right across the State.

“As the probationary Class of 355 hit the ground running, they have the full support of our Government behind them,” Mr Toole said.

“They are to be commended for pursuing a career in policing where they will make a real difference while protecting and serving our communities.

In 2019 the NSW Government announced the delivery of 1,500 additional police positions over four years. All of these positions have now been allocated and will be filled by the end of the financial year.

Class 355 is made up of 145 recruits, including 94 men and 51 women from various backgrounds and regions across the State and country.

Our Community Cares helps to improve the patient experience

NepeaN Blue Mountains

Local Health District is thankful to be supported by several local charities whose fundraising efforts help to enhance the patient experience at our hospitals and health centres.

Our Community Cares is one group whose significant efforts continue to benefit patients at Nepean Hospital. The volunteer-based charity does important work helping members of the penrith community who are in need, elderly or undergoing medical care.

In the last two years, Our Community Cares has donated over $27,000 to the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre and Nepean Hospital’s cancer and aged care wards. The funds have helped provide comfortable chemotherapy chairs, sensory activities for people with dementia, recliner chairs for stem cell therapy and lowline beds for aged care.

each year, Our Community Cares also provides Christmas presents for

Nepean Hospital’s aged care patients.

Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Chief executive, Kay Hyman thanks Our Community Cares for their ongoing efforts.

“The wonderful work done by Our

Community Cares continues to help some of our most vulnerable patients. Their fundraising, made possible by donations from local businesses and our community, is making a real difference for patients under our care.”

“I wish to sincerely thank Our Community Cares for the support they have given us to help improve the experience of patients at Nepean Hospital and the Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre,” Ms Hyman says.

Update reminder

Have you moved recently? Make sure you update your pet’s microchip details so that if they ever get lost, you can be contacted using the right phone number.

If you have changed your address (including state) or telephone number, or if the pet has changed ownership, please make sure these details are updated on their microchip. You can do this at Council offices and NSW Pet Registry.

Find out more about microchipping at penrith.city/ petregistration

Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre excels

PatIeNtS have given Nepean Cancer and Wellness Centre very high ratings of care, with the vast majority (98 per cent) rating their overall care as ‘very good’ or ‘good’.

the patient feedback, contained in the Bureau of Health Information’s (BHI) Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey, demonstrates the District’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality and patient-first care to local residents undergoing cancer treatment.

the very high ratings of care from patients were evident across a range of important aspects of care. almost all patients (99 per cent) rated the staff who treated them during their outpatient appointments as ‘very good’ or ‘good’.

every patient surveyed indicated that staff at the centre were polite and courteous, kind and caring, while 99 per cent of patients reported feeling they were treated with dignity and respect by healthcare staff.

Dr amanda Stevanovic, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Director of Cancer Services, welcomed the results from this year’s survey and thanked patients for their feedback.

“We put patients at the centre of

everything we do and it is great to see our compassion and care reflected in these results,” says Dr Stevanovic.

“Cancer care extends well beyond the physical treatment we provide – a cancer journey affects all parts of a person’s life.

“We are committed to delivering the best services tailored to every one of our patients needs from the time of diagnosis, through the course of treatments and in follow-up care and

support.

“We will continue to put our patients first and learn from their experiences to provide a truly holistic cancer service.”

Further information about the Outpatient Cancer Clinics Survey including key findings and full results is available on BHI data portal at www.bhi.nsw.gov.au/nsw_patient_ survey_program/outpatient_ cancer_clinics_survey.

RSPCA Rescue Run: Every KM represents 1000 calls for help

It is not too late to step up and take part in the RSPCA Rescue Run and support our inspectors, who are out on the road rescuing animals every day.

From tomorrow, 18 October until 31 October 2022, every KM of the 56 KM you run, walk, or roll, represents one thousand cruelty reports investigated by our Inspectorate across the country.

Inspector James has given over a decade of service helping thousands of animals. this month he is walking the walk to raise awareness about the sad reality of animal cruelty, whilst reminding the community that together, we can make a difference and improve the lives of our furry, scaly, and feathery friends.

“Being appointed as an RSPCA Inspector is an absolute privilege, being entrusted to investigate animal cruelty, remove animals from harm, and prosecute those in our community who willingly inflict pain and suffering upon them,” said Inspector James.

“the generosity and kindness of the community keep our inspectorate cars on the road and our boots on the ground. Without our loyal supporters, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”

the start line is in sight but there is still time to join James and sign-up for the RSPCA Rescue Run online.

Signing up is free and enables you to fundraise with friends and family by creating a team, or you can challenge yourself to take on the 56 KM solo. there are also prizes to be won by reaching fundraising goals, including Fitbit Charge 5 and Brooks vouchers.

Get your heart rate up for a heart-warming cause and join the RSPCA Rescue Run via rspcarescuerun.org.au

Boosting community connection and wellbeing

Stuart ayreS MP, Member for Penrith today announced that Noro Music therapy and the Haven Women’s Shelter will receive grants through the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Community Connection and Wellbeing Program to deliver community wellbeing initiatives.

Stuart ayres said Noro Music therapy will receive $10,000 towards their Guitars for Veteran’s project whilst the Haven will receive $72,697 for their Soaring Strengths Mentoring Program.

“through events and activities that bring people together, we can kickstart and revive a better sense of connection and social wellbeing in Penrith which took such a hit during COVID-19,” Stuart ayres said.

“the Guitars for Veterans project is a fantastic way to support our veterans and Noro are well placed to deliver this program.”

Belinda Leonard, CeO of Noro said “this program will help veterans to manage stress and well-being whilst gaining a new skill in an engaging environment.”

Guitars for Veterans will provide a social platform to improve and promote individual well-being through the use of learning guitar and collaborating. the group ‘jam sessions’ will provide a positive space and environment for participants to engage and interact through music, to show off their knowledge and learn and collaborate with each other.

Soaring Strengths Mentoring Program is a partnership between the Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter, local community partners and small businesses to support women who have experienced domestic violence, family violence and

homelessness, leaving the shelter to obtain career mentoring, access to education and employment opportunities and pathways.

“I’m confident both of these projects will support our community by facilitating a sense of belonging, which research shows is strongly linked to improved mental health outcomes,” said Stuart ayres.

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie taylor said research conducted by the NSW Mental Health Commissioner found that 4 out of 10 residents have experienced negative impacts to their life following the pandemic.

“the past few years have been incredibly isolating for many people across our state, and by creating more opportunities for connectedness

across NSW communities will play an important role in mitigating this,” Mrs taylor said.

Minister for emergency Services and resilience and Minister for Flood recovery Steph Cooke said the events and initiatives to be funded through the program range from multicultural courses to youth events.

“Not only will each event and initiative help communities to heal and recover from the ripple effects of COVID-19, but they can also help us build back stronger and more resilient to any future pandemics or disasters,” Ms Cooke said.

For more information visit: www.nsw.gov.au/ resilience-nsw/covid-19-community-connectionand-wellbeing-program

New recreation spaces for Trinity Drive Reserve

CONStruCtION is underway in trinity Drive reserve, Cambridge Gardens, to upgrade the junior playspace and build a new mixed recreation space for the community to enjoy.

the junior playspace upgrade will feature new play equipment including a sensory zone, mound slide, play cubby, double swing with sling seat and toddler seat, shade sails, trees, an accessible pathway, and seating. Water bubblers and bins will also be installed following community feedback.

a new mixed recreation space is also being constructed in the reserve adjacent to Cambridge Gardens Public School. It will feature skate and pump track facilities, parkour features, climbing wall, basket swing, a flying fox, accessible trampoline and spinner, and social spaces.

Penrith Mayor tricia Hitchen said local residents played an important role in bringing these projects to life.

“thank you to the passionate residents of Cambridge Gardens who helped us understand what they wanted to see happen in trinity Drive reserve and shared their feedback during the consultation process,” Cr Hitchen said.

“these new recreation spaces will provide more opportunities to play, be active and socialise for residents of all ages.”

the upgrades are being funded by Council in partnership with the NSW Government through

the Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grant and everyone Can Play Grant programs.

Member for Penrith Stuart ayres MP said the NSW Government is committed to improving the quality and quantity of recreation facilities for everyone to enjoy.

“Well-developed outdoor recreation spaces are an integral part of our local community that help connect people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds

RegioNal healTh plaN

and to promote healthy lifestyles,” Mr ayres said.

“these exciting upgrades at trinity Drive will have fun equipment like the flying fox and climbing equipment along with quiet sheltered spaces to sit and just enjoy being outside.”

These projects were identified through Council’s Sport and recreation Strategy.

Find out more at: www.yoursaypenrith.com.au/trinityplay

WItH such a large local health district, it’s not surprising that some of our services are in regional NSW. Help form the draft framework for the regional Health Plan for 2022-2032, by sharing what you want to see. Follow this link to provide your feedback and share your ideas: www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/nsw-regional-health-plan the portal will close on Sunday, 23 October 2022.

Jeremy, Belinda Leonard and Stuart Ayres MP

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres are pictured at the sod turn event held for Trinity Drive Reserve.

Beware: keep your eyes peeled for snakes

WeT, humid weather awakens our native snakes as they often seek out water and a food source.

Snakes are more active in the warmer months but we have seen an increased number seeking out frogs and mice to snack upon. Snakes are generally timid creatures and stay away from humans and pets. It is often our inquisitive pets that seek out snakes and tend to lead to problems. Dogs are generally at highest risk of being bitten but cats are also susceptible, especially those that like to hunt.

In the Penrith area we tend to see two main types of venomous snakes; either red belly black snakes or brown snakes and both types of snake bites are potentially fatal. Both have been sighted along the Nepean River over the past few weeks.

The brown snake tends to cause more neurological symptoms such as collapse and difficulty breathing. The red belly black snake is more likely to cause haemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells). However, either snake can

cause both symptoms with disastrous consequences if left untreated.

If you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a snake, try to keep your pet calm and relaxed and seek veterinary treatment as soon as possible. The sooner your pet is seen by a vet, the higher the chances of a recovery. Snake venom can transfer onto our

skin and can enter our blood stream, if the bite site is known do not touch the area. If a bite is suspected using gloves can avoid contact with venom.

Often dogs may collapse briefly after a snake bite, they may vomit, but then act completely normal again. This indicates they have received a lethal dose of venom. Bleeding is a late sign of envenomation.

Remember, pets can react in different ways.

Symptoms can include:

• Dilated pupils

• Weakness in hind legs

• Trembling

• Drooling

• Pale gums

• Restlessness

• Difficulty breathing

• Vomiting

• Panting

• Become unconscious

If you have seen a snake in the vicinity of your pet, and are unsure if they have been bitten, it is always better to take them to the vet for an assessment. If caught early, snake bites

can be successfully treated.

Identifying the snake can help with treatment and prognosis. If possible, taking a photo can be helpful, but never try to catch or kill a snake. If we are unsure if your pet has been bitten or unsure of the snake type, a snake bite detection test can be performed on your pet’s blood or urine.

Treatment involves the administration of an antivenom. Antivenom is very expensive and can mean treatment for snake bite is costly. There are combination antivenoms that can be given if the snake species is not known. Other medications and stabilization with IV fluids is also required. Complications including kidney failure and immune mediated disease can occur after a snake bite and animals can die despite treatment.

Snake bites can be reduced by minimizing areas where snakes are most likely to hide. These include wood piles, clutter and long grass.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Greencross Coreen Avenue on (02) 4731 3055.

The G SpoT

PRemATuRe Decoration! Here we are in October and it is happening, the dreaded Christmas decorations.

Just when you thought it was safe to leave your homes and venture out into the vulnerable world of the shopping centre, cue Jaws music - the premature decorators!!!!! I call them The PD club.

Have you ever watched Crime Stoppers and thought, I never knew that he or she was capable of that? The neighbours are interviewed and they say, “he was a quiet person, lovely family, I never knew that this street could house people like that,” and then look shocked.

Well the PD club are like that, they just look like meek and mild people, harmless and quiet, but deep down they are hiding a secret, perhaps even hiding tinsel in the wardrobe, who knows? But once they are out together, anything is possible. Similar to the zombie apocalypse?

Scientists still can’t work out the chemical imbalance in the PD’ers brain that gives them the urge to pull out the odd Santa and tree before December.

Statistics have shown that most grow up and run shopping centres, kid’s warehouses and the most hardened PD’s usually run department stores in the city where they can PD in about August.

Thankfully they are testing drugs at the moment that may stabilise the chemical imbalance to make PD’s actually want to start decorating in December. Trials have begun.

So as a security professional I am not really sure how to stop the PD club, however I can tell you that Christmas time is a great time for the baddies to come out and play. A couple of years ago a business near our business office left the gate unlocked, left for the Christmas shut down and boom the opportunist struck. All over Christmas in fact!

Hey, the buildings were alarmed but all the stuff in the yard (worth mega dollars) was laying there in all its glory, saying take me, pick me!!!!

There was a very well-executed clean out that lasted the entire weekend, because the baddies knew that this business was closed for business. How? Because it had a sign on it saying, back on what-ever date.

“Yippee,” the baddies screamed and happily cleaned them out of all the stock in the yard - 30 grand of crafted sandstone, to be exact.

Thankfully, good old NRS (my security company) was across the road and with the use of our cameras, the offenders were tracked down, caught and some stock returned. The other stuff was sold, oh and of course they burnt a truck out as well.

So let me ask you this? How would losing 30 grand from your business affect your operations? How would losing 30 grand from your house affect you?

So while you may say, “nah we will be right mate!” think about your security needs over Chrissy. Alarms, cameras, patrols, guards or whatever!

There are some things I can help you with and some things that I can’t, such as shopping and listening to “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas” in Coles on a 36 degree day in November.

So there you have it, the PD club will overrun us one day, think about your security and may your Christmas shopping begin!

months free

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

Climate Change 1882

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

Now that we are seeing the effects of climate change, so did Thomas Ralph woodland back 140 years ago in 1882. Thomas was born in the colony, the third son of william & Ann woodland of Park Hill, South Creek. He joined the police force in 1865 and became a Constable (No 1598) at the age of 23 years. At the time of his enlistment his occupation was a Drover. He was 5’6½ tall, blue eyes, fair hair and single. In August, 1867 he wrote a letter to the Sydney Morning Herald saying that “In the report of Bruce’s trial at the last Session for sticking up Morris’s store at Araluen, it is stated that Constable woodland was held up there. This is incorrect, I was never held up. The men that were held up were Constables Dacey, Staplyton, Richardson and Curran. I encountered the bushrangers the previous day and chased them single-handed and took John Connell who has received a sentence of ten years”. (Bruce was a Scottish bushranger finally remanded and charged with murder). Thomas resigned in September, 1867. At the age of 26 at St Mary Magdalene Church of England, St Marys in August, 1870 by Rev John Vaughn, he married Elizabeth Margaret Royal the only daughter of Peter Royal, Storekeeper at St Marys. In 1884 he wrote a letter to the Nepean Times asking the numerous readers what they thought about the great change in the season just closing in June that year. He said that the fruit trees and grape vines usually made two growths in the season - Spring and Autumn, but there was only one growth in the Spring as the trees and vines having set in midsummer, or at least it was so at St Marys, and his reason for his letter was to gather information from among the many orchardists and vignerons in the district with the view of testing if this occurrence is general throughout the district, because he didn’t remember seeing this before and, it was worthwhile to watch what effect it had upon the yield for the coming season. He asked, “Is this one of the effects of the great planetary changes that is taking place as predicted by our scientists, or the result of the drought?” In his mind the dry weather was not the cause. The great effect of the season had been the under-drainage of the water and the cracking of the ground leaving the surface dry, and there was no doubt that droughts are a blessing at times as the under-drainage of water takes away the stagnant and poisoned waters of the earth that gather strength between droughts and would, in time, destroy fruit trees, grass and humanity as well. Good grass and vegetables spring from a healthy soil fed from the food of the earth’s yield and, if the yield was pure then all life was pure, and if the yield was foul then all life was foul after it. As all plants are fed from the minerals of the earth, those minerals being in water matter, and it is to our benefit that the excess of mineral accumulation should be drawn away into the fissures of the deeper earth and the surface made pure. without a drought this could not be done and the cracking of the ground is letting the diseased matter into the clay beds to pulverise their stagnant matter and make it more rich and fruitful, so if there was never a drought our clay soil would never be anything

but clay!”. Also in December that year in Penrith Police Court, Thomas was arrested on a warrant by Constable Cahalan (Parkes Police Station) who sent him to Penrith to be dealt with. Elizabeth stated that Thomas left her in 1882 and during that time he only contributed about £20 towards supporting herself and four children. Thomas could not justify his actions in leaving his wife and family without support. The Bench ordered him to pay 15/- a week for 12 months, together with 6/6d costs and to find sureties himself in £20 and two at £10, or in default he would go to North Parramatta Gaol for 12 months. He defaulted and went to gaol. In November 1898 at Burwood, Thomas was found at 5pm on the 29th in scrub at Flemington halfway between Parramatta Road and the railway line by Constable John Timbs of No 5 Police Station. He was described as a labourer aged 59 years with a height of 5’6” and his body was described as poorly nourished with a fair complexion, dark hair turning grey and bald on top, grey eyes, dark sandy beard, whiskers and moustache turning grey. He had three teeth missing from his upper jaw, his lower jaw perfect. There were no visible marks or injuries on his body. The lower part of his body and legs were being eaten by ants. He was dressed in dark striped tweed trousers with a faded navy-blue vest, light striped flannelette shirt, dark check shirt, red silk tie and a white cotton handkerchief with the name “woodland” on the corner, along with a blueprint cotton handkerchief. Money found on his body 1/6- along with one wooden handle bladed knife with the letter “A” on the handle, eyeglasses, led pencil and a box containing pills. Thomas’s clothing was destroyed on the 14th of December, 1898. Thomas was identified by James Richard Woodland his brother who lived at Underwood Street, Botany. other occupations of Thomas were that of a miner and carpenter. His wife Elizabeth was born in 1851 at Clydesdale, South Creek and died at the age of 71 years in 1922 at the residence of her son Ralph woodland who lived in Putland Street, St Marys opposite Victoria Park. Three daughters and two sons survivedMrs E Beacroft {werrington), Mrs Martin (Gladesville), Mrs Thompson (Granville), and Messrs Percy and Ralph woodland (St Marys). There were also 14 grandchildren. The funeral was largely attended when her body was laid to rest alongside Thomas in the St Mary Magdalene C of E Cemetery. Two grandsons (Messrs C and E Thompson) and two sonsin-law (Messrs Martin and Thompson) carried the coffin from the house to the hearse and then from the hearse to the church. Many wreaths were forwarded and Reverend o G Dent conducted the service. Picture shows the woodland Family Crest.

Sources: Nepean Times, NSW Police Gazette 1854-1930, Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875) Wed 31 Aug 1870 - Page 1 - Family Notices, NSW Gaol Description Entrance Book 1884-1866, Ancestry 29th November, 1898, New South Wales Criminal Court Records, North Sydney Death Records - Registers of Bodies Received, 1881–1901, Australian Death Index 1787 – 1985, Died 1898 (Registered No. 1827)

Roses on show at Spring Show

By Noel Rowsell

The Nepean Blue Mountains h awkesbury (NBMh) Regional Rose Society of NSW Inc. held its first spring show in three years at the emu Sports Club, home of Leonay Golf Club, on Thursday 13th October, and was officially opened by the Society’s Patron, Rodney Watson OAM.

Show Manager, Doug hayne said, “Over 120 entries were received, which is small for a show at this time of the year but the quality of the blooms were exceptional, considering the terrible growing season thus far. In what can be considered a first in Australia, 70 to 80 percent of the exhibits were Australian Bred. As a passionate promoter of Australian Bred Roses, I am pleased that almost 30 years of work promoting Australian hybridizers is coming to fruition.”

Many of the varieties bred by hybridizers Richard and Ruth Walsh, who travelled from east Maitland, were on display and they themselves took out some champion ribbons as well. exhibitors were from NBMh, Sydney, Southern Sydney and UNSh Regionals.

Locals Doug and Glynis hayne (emu Plains), and Ted & Meryl Morphett (emu heights), took out the A Grade and Spring Championships respectively. Doug and Glynis also took out the NBMh Miniature and Miniflora Championships. Richard and Ruth Walsh won the Australian Bred Championship and Bro Jeff Regan won the B Grade Championship.

Known affectionately as ‘Mrs Bud to Full Bloom’ (as Glynis has probably won 80% in this class over the past 15 to 20 years of shows participated

in), Glynis and Doug’s exhibit of the Australian-bred miniflora rose ‘Joyce Abounding’ won the Champion Bud to Full Bloom, Champion Miniflora and the Dr Bruce Chapman Australian Unit of the Show.

Glynis said, “Doug and I are proud to win this ribbon, as Bruce was a great friend. He named ‘Joyce Abounding’ after his wife, sometime in 2008, and it is very popular amongst exhibitors. We instituted the award when the regional was formed and held its first show.”

Up and coming exhibitor Stephanie Judges won the Best NBMh Regional Member Ribbon, as well as the Best Unit in C Grade.

Other winners were brother and sister Greg and Robyn east, Denise Murphy, Braidan Swan and Alina

Thornbury. The floral art classes were hotly contested by Denise Murphy, Stephanie Judges, Bethany Kojongian and Glynis hayne.

Glynis asked that Alicia and Stacey (office), the staff of Emu Sports Club, Pro Shop, Mother earth Nursery, Neutrog, judges Ted & Meryl Morphett who judged (B to NBMh classes), Mark McGuire the Championship and A grade classes and floral art judges Samantha harper and Ken Smith, Gary Murphy (who transported the exhibitors from the car park to staging area), the Rose Society of NSW Inc., the Nepean News, visitors and all volunteers be thanked for the support, sponsorship and publicity the Regional received, as putting on a show requires so much help.

Champion Bud to Full Bloom, Champion Australian Bred, Champion Miniflora - Joyce Abounding - Doug and Glynis Hayne. Photos supplied.

Champions RtoL A grade - Doug & Glynis Hayne, Centre 6 vases Ted & Meryl Morphett

Movie magic awaits at the St Marys Cinema series

Enjoy movie magic at Penrith City Council’s free St Marys Cinema series this october to December, as Coachmans Park plays host to three outdoor movie nights for the whole family to enjoy.

Each night of the St Marys Cinema series will embrace a seasonal theme with Spooky Cinema kicking things off on Friday 28 october 6pm-9pm.

you’re invited to enjoy the family-friendly spooky classic, Scooby Doo (2002), and to dress-up in costume to embrace the Halloween theme. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed and free popcorn is on offer for the first 200 people.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said she was delighted to see another new event series in St Marys where the community is invited to enjoy free, family-friendly activities, right in the heart of the town centre.

“Penrith City Council supports and encourages the creation of new events that bring our community together to enjoy and have fun,” Cr Hitchen said.

“The St Marys Cinema series is a

great activity for families to enjoy a free night out at the movies whilst enjoying the company of friends, neighbours and family. After the success of the St Marys Lights Up event series in May, it’s such a boost to the community to host safe, inclusive activities for people of all ages to participate in.”

St Marys Cinema starts with Spooky Cinema on Friday 28 october 6pm9pm, followed by Spring Cinema on Saturday 19 november 6pm-9pm and finishing the series on a festive note with Christmas Cinema on Saturday 17 December 6pm-9pm.

Find out more at penrith.city/events

How inflation penalises savers

Price of a Big Mac in USD

Watching the news can be like

watching poorly scripted theatre. You can tell from everyone’s reactions that something important is meant to be happening, but you’re not really sure what it is. Even people with supposedly ‘good’ jobs where you get pay rises now and then and a promotion if you promise to work hard and do the right thing, asset prices are rising faster than wages, and you never seem to be able to get ahead.

the use of money printing and lowinterest rates by central banks around the world has been happening for as long as fiat currencies have existed. The excess capital that has been created has a sneaky way of finding its way into the prices of goods. in effect, it’s a hidden form of taxation that punishes savers and rewards borrowers.

Let’s have a look at a real-world example of a Big Mac to try and understand what is really happening to your money.

This is what a Big Mac looked like in 1967.

What caused it to be 13 times more expensive over the 55 years? They certainly don’t provide 13 times more size, value, or nutrition than in the past.

This is what a Big Mac looks like today.

the simple answer is that the USD has lost 13x its purchasing power when priced in Big Macs. The endless printing of currencies by the central banks has caused the USD to erode in value over time. Recently the USD (as measured against a basket of other currencies) has strengthened, but this is all relative. all currencies are losing value, it’s just that the USD has been losing value at a slower pace relative to other currencies – including the aUD.

If we look at the M2 money supply of the US, it’s been increasing at around 7.1 percent per annum since 1967. incredibly 40 percent of all USD ever in history were printed in 2021.

another way to look at it would be if you kept cash under your mattress, you would be losing the equivalent of 4.7 percent per year if all you consumed were Big Macs.

Despite the urban myth, they have not changed in weight, height, or diameter. Other than the fact that the modern Big Mac is in high definition, they’re exactly the same. Yet when the Big Mac was first sold in America in 1967, it only cost 45c. now they cost $5.81 USD. They have experienced an inflation rate of 4.7 percent per annum.

if the purchasing power of your money eroded at 4.7 percent per annum, it means that if you kept $100,000 in your mattress for 50 years and gave it to your children at the end, it would be the equivalent of giving them $10,000 today in terms of what they would be able to buy.

The implication in this example (right) is that to protect against the loss in purchasing power of your money, you would have to deploy it in an asset

that increases by at least 4.7 percent per annum…. After-tax.

this gets even worse if you were to price the purchasing power of your dollars in assets rather than Big Mac considering that the returns for property and shares are in the vicinity of 7-9 percent per annum.

the use of leverage with an appropriate asset is probably the easiest way to get around this problem because leverage can magnify your returns. With the typical property using a 90 percent loan to value ratio, at an average interest rate of 5 percent, a yield of 4.3 percent, and an annual growth rate of 5 percent, your return on your cash invested would be 13.53 percent. Property has been one of the best assets not only to protect your wealth from the effects of monetary debasement but to grow it over time. Probably the reason why the vast majority of the wealth of the royal family of England has been stored in land over the last 1000 odd years.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any home Finance questions that i can assist you with.

Purchasing power of cash over 50 years

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

By Noel Rowsell

The Blacktown Red Belly

Warriors Rugby League Club has enjoyed great success at the 50th Koori Knockout tournament, which was held in Nowra, NSW over the 1st-3rd October Long Weekend.

BRBW entered six teams in the event, finishing as the most successful

club over the weekend with some amazing results.

In their 30th year of competing in the Koori Knockout, BRBW captured the Under 13 Boys title, the Under 17 Boys title, finished runners-up in the Under 15 Boys and top 16 in the Open Men’s division.

The Under 17 Girls and the Open Women were both defeated in their opening games of the tournament.

The full results were: 17 Girls:

Defeated by Waterloo Storm round

1; Open Women: Defeated by Dunghutti Connexions round 1; 13 Boys: KO Winners defeated La Perouse; 15 Boys: Runners Up defeated by La Perouse in the Grand Final; 17 Boys: KO Winners defeated Combined Countries; Open Men: Round 1 BRBW defeated Gilgandra Sand Goannas; Round 2 BRBW defeated Erambie All Blacks; Round 3 BRBW defeated by Nanima Common

Connections

The BRBW committee are ‘over the moon’ with their Club’s performance in the tournament and would like to thank all the coaching staff, players and supporters for their efforts on October long weekend.

The committee also expressed its thanks to all of the Club’s sponsors, who supported the campaign and made it possible for the Club to be so successful.

Make your debut in 2023

By Panthers Media

2022 was a season Panthers players, members and the Penrith community will never forget.

The history defining achievements couldn’t have been possible without everyone in the club playing their part.

Off the field the support in the stands, on the streets and at venues all across the country was unprecedented and played a huge part in driving the players to back-to-back NRL premierships.

Now, whether you came to one game or cheered the team home on every occasion, if you chanted “Sattler” following Dylan Edwards’ try-saver in front of a big screen or if your family has a new-found love for the team, it’s your time to play your part.

Make your debut in 2023.

Become a member, gear up on gamedays and turn BlueBet Stadium into a sea of black every chance you get.

The success of the entire Panthers Pathways Program puts the club in the best possible position to create history

once again.

2023 will also mark the 20th anniversary of the club’s second premiership victory in 2003. We will be celebrating the historic achievement throughout the season, culminating in a gameday celebration at a date to be confirmed once the draw is revealed.

Panthers fans can mark the anniversary season with an ’03 Club membership, highlighted by an exclusive event with members of the premiership-winning squad.

Attending BlueBet Stadium has never been as rewarding, with the current squad putting on a show each and every week, as well as plenty of prizes and giveaways up for grabs, plus free activities to keep the kids entertained.

Not only is a 2023 membership great value for money, it’s the only way to guarantee your favourite seats to every home game at BlueBet Stadium.

It’s some of the most affordable reserved seating in the NRL at $20 per game for adults and $49.09 per game for a family of four.

Chasing the ultimate Panthers experience in 2023 for you or a die-hard fan? Check out the VIP membership and brand new Ultimate Panthers Experience options for unforgettable experiences with current players and former Panthers greats.

AUTOMATIC RENEWAL

For members who have opted in to automatically renew their membership, the renewal will be processed on Thursday 20 October. There is no need to manually renew.

Existing members can renew their membership online, by calling the Panthers membership team on 1300PANTHERS or by visiting the Panther Shop at Panthers Penrith Leagues Club.

SAME-SEAT RENEWAL

Reserved seat members have until

Friday 11 November to renew their membership. Following this date all reserved seats will be available to new members.

OUT OF TOWN MEMBERSHIPS

If you support the Panthers from interstate or overseas, there are membership options designed specifically for you.

The QLD Panther, Bathurst Panther and Proud Panther memberships include tailored members merchandise packs and all the added benefits of being part of the Panthers family.

THE NEXT GEN

Celebrate the arrival of your little Panthers fan with a Born To Be A Panther Membership. It includes a custom Panthers birth certificate, adorable milestone cards and an exclusive baby bib for just $40. Make your debut in 2023.

Penrith Panthers – NRL Premiers. NSW Cup Premiers. Jersey Flegg Premiers. SG Ball Premiers.