Nepean News 23 June 2023

Addressing seatbelts on buses

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE Minns Labor Government has urgently instructed the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce to examine the adequacy of bus and coach safety regulation in NSW.

Following the tragic bus incident in the Hunter Valley, the Taskforce will now also look at a number of current concerns around safety management, seat belt use and regulatory arrangements.

Specifically, the Taskforce will examine the following:

• The adequacy of retrofitting seat belts on school buses in regional NSW over the past 10 years.

• Consideration of expanding seat belts on buses to other areas of the State, and enforcement of seatbelt laws.

• Whether any changes should be recommended to the Australian Design Rules for buses and coaches.

• Bus and coach operator safety management systems, including driver training and fatigue management.

The Taskforce will also review Transport for NSW’s oversight of operators and their ability to actively manage, monitor and implement safety management systems; as well as engaging the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to review if any gaps in risk management of bus safety exits between the two agencies and bus and coach operators.

Transport for NSW is working with NSW

Police and will seek their recommendations on the implementation of any necessary measures to ensure the safety of the travelling public.

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said when tragic events like this happen, we need to look at what we can do to ensure this doesn’t happen again.

“Passengers get onto buses and coaches expecting to be kept safe and the taskforce will look at what needs to be done to improve passenger safety across the industry,” Minister Haylen said.

“We know seat belts save lives but if there needs to be more enforcement around this issue put in place so something like this doesn’t happen again, we will do it.”

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BY MARK GEYER

Can you help us get a wheelchair for Kalel?

IN just weeks local fella Kalel has gone from being a healthy and active 10 year old to now having a Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) a neurological disorder that involves progressive weakness and reduced senses to the arms and legs. It has caused damage to fat based protective covering on the nerves called the myelin sheath.

This beautiful family needs our help for a new wheelchair as he will grow and to also help facilitate access in their home. It would be great if we could also raise enough funds to help Kalel’s parents take valuable time off work to be with him.

If you can help in any small way it will be so much appreciated.

You can donate at: https://gofund.me/b3193bab

Here’s some more information from the Go Fund Me page which was set up by family friend Layal:

Kalel is a bright, smart and wonderful little boy. He has recently been diagnosed with CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy).

It is a neurological disorder caused by damage to the fat-based protective covering on nerves called the myelin sheath. Symptoms of CIDP are: Tingling or no feeling in fingers and toes, loss of deep tendon reflexes (muscles), fatigue and feeling tired and unusual feelings in the body.

He is currently unable to walk unassisted and is in a wheelchair.

It can happen at any age and to anyone and is truly devastating to the person involved and their families.

CIDP is closely related to Guillain-Barré syndrome (in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body) and is considered the long-term part of that disease.

Treatment for CIDP includes the use of steroid medicine and other treatments that focus on the immune system, along with physical therapy.

Parents Andrew and Esther have been by their son’s side 24/7 taking turns where possible but both are using up their long service leave, sick leave, parental leave and annual leave.

They need our help to help them survive this. They need to be able to still afford to live and pay their mortgage so when their little boy is home nothing changes in his environment.

We don’t know how long recovery will take but we do know they are a strong united family who are struggling and definitely need our help as a community.

If you can help with any amount it would be amazing as it goes directly to the family.

Any help at all would be greatly appreciated but let’s try and reach this goal together!

MP’s emotional inaugural speech

BY KERRIE DAVIES

RECENTLY elected Member for Penrith Karen McKeown

OAM has delivered her inaugural speech in State Parliament.

Mrs Mckeown gave a bare-all account of her less than glamorous childhood and the years that lead to the beginning of her career as a local representative. She was understandably emotional throughout and often spoke through tears and a shaky voice as she outlined her experiences with poverty and abandonment as a young child. She credited her elderly grandmother, who despite facing many challenges including a disability, raised her to be a strong and resilient social warrior.

From humble beginnings that saw her wade through numerous emotional and financial challenges, Mrs McKeown attributed many of the opportunities that came her way to Labor policies and she thanked previous and current Labor Members of Parliament for being role models in her life.

“I am particularly proud of Deputy Premier Prue Car. I don’t think I could be any more proud of her unless my name was Ann or Noel Guillaume (Prue’s parents). I’m under absolutely no illusion that if it wasn’t for the unfailing support and advocacy of Prue Car I wouldn’t be standing here today.”

Mrs McKeown spoke about the support of her family, friends, Labor colleagues, her “extensive union family” and her “rock, biggest supporter and cheerleader” husband Brendan.

Her speech focussed on her pride in being part of a Labor Government and in a team with so many female members.

Mrs McKeown said there was a message in her speech, particularly aimed at women.

“It does take hard work, perseverance and determination; but if a barefoot snotty-nosed kid from the back streets of inner Sydney can win the prized seat of Penrith against all the odds to stand here in the oldest parliament in Australia, then anything is possible.”

“I’m so proud to be elected to represent Penrith. I won’t let you down,” Mrs McKeown said.

You can watch Karen McKeown’s full speech on Youtube or by locating it on the Karen McKeown Member for Penrith or Nepean News facebook pages.

Specsavers Penrith calling on locals to help improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s eye care

SPECSAVERS Penrith is calling on the local community to help reach the goal of $1 million in donations to go towards The Fred Hollows Foundation this year. Through the purchase of limitededition frames, locals can help make eye care more accessible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Joining forces with Martu artist Helen Dale Samson, new limitededition frames will go on sale from 26th of June for the people of Penrith to purchase with $25 from the sale of each frame going towards The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Indigenous Australia Program.

To date, Specsavers Penrith has contributed $24,482.86 through the community program to the total $6 million donated by the eyecare retailer towards The Foundation’s programs in Australia. Entering its 12th year in partnership and 7th Limited Edition range, Specsavers and The Fred Hollows Foundation share a mutual goal of closing the eye health gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Currently, 90% of vision loss experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is treatable or preventable. 35% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have some form of eye or sight issue, including 13% of children. On top of this, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are almost 4 times more likely to have diabetes than non-Indigenous Australians, and 1 in 3 have diabetic retinopathy (a complication of diabetes that can cause vision loss and blindness).

Specsavers and The Fred Hollows Foundation are aiming to change this.

During the strong 12-year partnership, donations from local communities have helped The Foundation:

• Screen over 100,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

• Conduct over 4,000 cataract surgeries and a further 15,800 sight saving operations

• Perform over 7,000 diabetic retinopathy procedures

• Train over 800 people to deliver culturally responsive care to First Nations people.

Specsavers Penrith is encouraging locals to come in-store and purchase the limited-edition glasses and sunglasses, now available in two new styles, with $25 from each pair sold going to The Fred Hollows Foundation to help carry on Fred’s vision and save people’s sight.

“We’re proud to support The Foundation’s program partners within NSW to help fund important initiatives. Donations received will help fund the Outback Eye Service (OES), which is focused on providing eye care screening and treatment to areas that are critically under-funded, under-equipped and under-staffed,” says Specsavers Penrith Dispensing Partner, Katie Daly.

“Specsavers donations also support funding for an Orthoptist, who travels with a team of eye health professionals into regional areas of NSW such as Lightning Ridge and Bourke. During these trips patients are screened, treated, and referred on to other clinics if needed. Specsavers optometrists have also participated in outreaches, most recently they took part in a twoday surgery intensive,” Katie says.

“We are incredibly grateful to be able to join forces with Specsavers and First Nations artists like Helen to make eye care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people more accessible,”

“Like Fred, Specsavers shares the belief that everyone should have access to good quality, affordable eye care no matter where they live. We see the difference every day that good eye health can make to a person and their community.

“This campaign will make a huge difference to two key areas of our work – building a strong workforce of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in eye health and strengthening the capability and coverage of eye care around Australia.”

“We can’t thank the community enough for their continued support, but there is still work to be done to close the eye health gap. This year’s limited edition frames featuring artwork by Helen Dale Samson are a great way to contribute to the important work of The Fred Hollows Foundation,” says Jane.

The artwork featured this year on the frames by Martumili Artist Helen Dale Samson is called ‘Puntawarri’, which depicts the diverse flora found in the area in which Helen resides – the site of an important Jukurrpa (Dreaming) story. Helen was born at Jigalong Mission in the Pilbara region of Western Australia and continues to live in the community located there today. Puntawarri is an important cultural area located in the middle stretches of the Canning Stock Route and east of Jigalong Aboriginal community.

Helen has experienced first hand the importance of The Foundation’s work after recently receiving sightsaving cataract surgery thanks to The Fred Hollows Foundation.

You can purchase the limitededition frames in store at Specsavers Penrith from the 26th of June. Book an appointment by visiting www.specsavers.com.au/stores

Penrith City Council invites community input for the Rickabys Creek Flood Study

PENRITH City Council is preparing a flood study for the Rickabys Creek catchment and is calling on residents and business owners to share their flood experiences during the community consultation period from Thursday 8 June to Thursday 6 July, 2023.

The Rickabys Creek catchment includes the suburb of Londonderry and sections of Agnes Banks, Castlereagh, Cranebrook, Llandilo and Berkshire Park.

Council invites residents and business owners whose property is located within the study area and has experienced flooding, to share their local knowledge and personal experience.

The feedback received from the community will help Council to improve its understanding of flood behaviour, identify flooding ‘trouble spots’ and aid in the development of a computer flood model.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said, “Council is committed to preparing floodplain management plans for areas most at risk of flooding within our region. Flood studies help us improve planning and management of the catchment areas and are vital to maintain the future growth of Penrith.”

“For all those residents and business owners located within the catchment areas, I encourage you to have your say and provide your valuable

knowledge by filling out our survey,” Cr Hitchen said.

The study is being overseen by the Penrith Floodplain Risk Management Committee and receiving financial and technical support from the NSW Government under the Floodplain Management Program.

Visit the Your Say Penrith website (yoursaypenrith.com.au/RickabysCreekFS) and complete the survey for the Rickabys Creek Flood Study by 5pm, Thursday 6 July 2023.

For more information, visit: penrithcity.nsw. gov.au/services/other-services/floodplainmanagement

Photo: Fred Hollows Foundation

Chair of The Fred Hollows Foundation Jane Madden said.

St Clair & District Men’s Shed – 10 exciting years of progress

BY ALLAN WARD

FEBRUARY 2013 saw an initiative by Linda Whittaker and her staff at St Clair Neighbourhood Centre (now Autumnleaf Neighbourhood Centre) to involve local men in social activities. The original group of just 8 men (see photo) has now grown, after some 10 years, into a fully-operational men’s shed of 60 members.

The basics of a men’s shed is to provide somewhere for men to gather, to socialise, make new friends, and if interested become involved in various activities including woodworking, gardening, etc.

St Clair and District Men’s Shed (SCADMS) is a not-for-profit organisation and a registered charity. The shed has relied mostly on grants to finance its development (and continues to do so) along with annual membership subscriptions, Bunning’s BBQ’s and the manufacture and sale of a wide variety of timber items.

Very early in the shed’s existence the social group was visited by the Hon. Tanya Davies, State Member for Mulgoa. Tanya obviously realised the importance of a fledgling shed and has most thankfully provided SCADMS with a great deal of support. She has been in the forefront of helping the shed obtain state government grants when available. Tanya has been SCADMS patron from those very early days.

There came a time when the membership realised that to cater for its needs of a fully operational men’s shed they needed to investigate suitable land upon which they could ultimately build their dream – their own shed.

Several approaches were made to owners/occupiers of suitable land in the St Clair area until finally they were offered the use of a small existing building located in the grounds of Mamre House on Mamre Road. This was the start that SCADMS needed

and they finally moved there in October 2018. The area surrounding Mamre House is heritage listed, owned by the State Government, and managed by CatholicCare to whom the shed owes a great deal of gratitude for their assistance in many elements of the shed’s development.

The future then lay in progressing towards the erection a purpose-built building and to do this SCADMS approached Catholic Care. A major landmark was then reached in February 2019 with CatholicCare and the State Government making a block of land available in a location not far from the ‘temporary shed’ and most importantly safe from flooding from the nearby South Creek.

Plans were produced and costings done for the large concrete slab needed and the supply and build of the all-steel

shed. These were duly submitted to Penrith City Council for DA approval and after a few changes the go-ahead came through in late March 2019.

September 2019 arrived and stage 1 was completed followed by stage 2 being completed in January 2020 enabling work to commence fittingout the interior. This date of course in the history of Australia is when Covid-19 also officially arrived.

There are many organisations and people to thank who have enabled SCADMS to get to where they are today. Their own members whose foresight, dedication and commitment of their time and effort has been foremost with names to mention being Andrew, Ian B, Ian P, Paul, Peter, Tony B, Dave, Ken, Daryll and others.

Tanya Davies as mentioned previously cannot be thanked enough

especially as how much of the shed’s vision was also hers. Organisations who must also be thanked in a big way include: Penrith Council, Rondo Building Services in Erskine Park, Woolworth’s stores at Mount Druitt & St Clair, Bunning’s stores at Minchinbury and Blacktown, and St Marys RSL.

The stage has now been reached where more can be given back to the community and for over a year a collection box has been located at our check-in desk for donations to the children’s section of Nepean Hospital.

There are now some 1,200 community men’s sheds around Australia and SCADMS are certainly very proud to be one of these and especially in becoming an increasingly important part of our local community. You can read more about the shed, including many of the projects produced over the years, on our website: www.scadms.com

St Clair and District Men’s Shed are most pleased to welcome anyone interested in finding out more about the shed to come along to have a chat, a warm cup of tea and a biscuit or two. To make arrangements to visit please fill-out and return the contact section on our website or go to the St Clair and District Men’s Shed FaceBook page and leave us a message.

Mental health supported by community grants

THE Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP, welcomes the announcement of the Australia Post Community Grants program 2023. Grants of up to $10,000 will assist projects that connect individuals and communities to improve mental health and wellbeing in their local area.

In 2022, there were 70 Australia Post Community Grants delivered nation-wide. Funded projects addressed areas such as isolation, homelessness, trauma, suicide prevention, social disadvantage, and carer support.

“It is wonderful to see that Australia Post, an organisation we rely on daily to connect to others,

supports mental health and making a real difference on the ground level,” said Mrs McIntosh.

“I welcome this grant announcement as I have been concerned about the loss of community connection, particularly due to COVID-19.

“We are seeing more people from all backgrounds experience mental health conditions. It is key that we as a community let every vulnerable person know there is care and help within arm’s reach.

“As well as large services offering free mental health support, the role of community-led groups is vital, as they deliver services such as therapy groups, peer support networks, friendship programs, and workshops.

“By advancing funding projects that foster greater connection in our communities, we can fight the stigma and promote meaningful conversations around mental health.”

All interested community organisations are invited to apply by visiting www.auspost.com.au/ grants. Applications close Sunday, 2 July 2023.

If someone you know needs mental health support, the following services are available 24/7:

• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636

• Lifeline - 131 114

Original shed members February 2013. Back row (L-R) Allan, Ted, Gordon, Andrew. Seated (L-R) Tony, Cecil, Vince and Ian.

View of our woodworking workshop

Aerial view of the new St Clair and District Men’s Shed

Grant funding available for local community organisations

PENRITH City Council is now accepting applications for the Community Assistance Program; local non-profit organisations and community groups are encouraged to apply for funding for initiatives that strengthen the community, address community needs and improve opportunities for participation in Penrith City.

Council’s annual Community Assistance Program (CAP) offers grants of up to $1,500.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said funds will be distributed to local organisations that play a significant role in supporting the needs of the community.

“The grants will allow community organisations to plan and run events and projects that benefit our residents, and the networks that allow them to grow,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Recipients do a lot with very little and enrich the lives of many, collaborating with other community groups to achieve better outcomes for the people of Penrith City.”

CAP Grants

Council’s annual Community Assistance Program (CAP) offers grants of up to $1,500 for local nonprofit community groups to use

toward projects that strengthen the community, address community needs and improve opportunities for participation in Penrith City.

Community groups can use CAP to:

• Connect to their local community

• Deliver programs differently

• Expand or adapt their services for new and growing needs

• Purchase resources

• Develop their skills

Projects are prioritised according to the eligibility and assessment criteria. To be eligible for funding, projects must:

• be delivered by community based non-profit organisations

• be one off activities

• be of direct benefit to Penrith residents

• encourage participation by Penrith residents, including disadvantaged community members.

The Community Assistance Program funding round is currently open and closes at 5pm on 6 July 2023. For further details call Natalie Wadwell on 4732 7513.

All applications must be made through SmartyGrants online portal at https://penrith.smartygrants.com. au/CAP-Rolling-22-23

Partnership to boost innovation in western Sydney

OMRON Automation and Robotics Australia and Western Sydney University have announced a new agreement to foster innovation, facilitate and enhance joint research activities, and collaborate on their regional shared vision for western Sydney.

The agreement, in the form of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalises and strengthens the long-standing relationship between Western Sydney University and OMRON.

During a recent signing ceremony, Western Sydney University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President of Research, Enterprise and International, Professor Deborah Sweeney said the signing of the MoU marked a new milestone in the establishment of ‘Shared Vision Partnerships’ between the University and industry.

“University and industry collaborations provide staff, researchers, and students with an unparalleled opportunity to create translational impact for the University, industry and more broadly with the community, through contributing to economic prosperity of the whole region. It is my absolute pleasure to work with OMRON, and we are excited to explore the opportunities our relationship may bring,” said Professor Sweeney.

OMRON Oceania Managing Director, Henry Zhou says OMRON has enjoyed a close working relationship with Western Sydney University in recent years.

“This Memorandum of

Understanding (MOU) will further strengthen our great partnership,” Mr Zhou says.

“OMRON is committed to supporting the education sector to improve lives and contribute to a better society.

“We want to make robotics and automation more accessible and affordable for students and industry.

“At the same time, we want to encourage more young people to

consider a career in this exciting field and enrol in STEM courses.

“We look forward to working with Western Sydney University on developing an innovative Factory of the Future, upskilling and reskilling the engineering workforce as well as joint R&D and complementary projects.”

OMRON and Western Sydney University share many interrelated and collaborative opportunities

already, including their commitment to working in western Sydney, as well as increasing regional innovation.

The MoU marks a commitment to exploring a new phase of collaborative opportunities together over the next two years and signals a commitment to deepen their relationship across student education, professional development, innovation precinct activation, graduate opportunities, cutting-edge research and development, as well as key strategic projects both regionally and internationally.

The MoU signing was also witnessed by Don Teng, OMRON Asia Pacific Group Managing Director who remarked:

“OMRON’s Vision is designed to enrich the future for people, industries, and globally through Innovative Automation so we hope such a payit-forward initiative can contribute to enriching students at the University.”

“With our Automation & Robotics technology they can address social issues such as the diminishing skilled work force in Australian manufacturing. At the same time, they can pioneer the innovation in advanced manufacturing that Australia is envisaging.”

As part of the MoU, an exciting opportunity is being explored relating to an advanced manufacturing technology collaboration between Western Sydney University’s Factory of the Future, due to open in 2024, and OMRON’s Automation Technology Centres, in both Australia and overseas, to demonstrate leading edge capability developed across the western Sydney advanced manufacturing industry.

Calling on all Veterans and family

BY TONY FRYER

THE St Marys Veterans Wellbeing Program is open to all veterans in the wider Nepean district.

Designed by Veterans and family for Veterans and family, these activities offer opportunity for like-minded and families to share amongst each other in a comfortable environment, while being as active as you wish. Veterans do not need to be a member of the St Marys RSL sub-Branch nor of the St Marys Outpost Veterans Support Centre – all are welcome to participate.

Now’s the time to come along and join in. Check out the July calendar here, for an activity that best suits you.

Try the Barefoot Bowls on Friday 7th or bring the family for a Walk n Talk (your choice of 1.5 or 3K) with scrumptious breakfast on Saturday 8th. Drop in most mornings for an informal Coffee n Chat. Learn to play a guitar or ukulele or join the jam sessions.

Since the Program commenced in March 2023, there has been a growing interest in the activities, with 20+ young and middleaged perambulators taking in the fresh air on the Walk n Talk with Breakfast on the monthly Saturday session; meanwhile a dozen others were having loads of fun chasing the ‘kitty’ in the Barefoot Bowls on the first Friday each month. There’s plenty of room for more to join in.

Likewise, the Guitars for Vets has found a regular following of fans in the Day Club with both groups enjoying each other’s company on several Wednesday gigs.

For any activity you (your family) may be interested in, please firstly phone/email Leanne for details at the Veterans Support Centre (02 9833 4700 or vietvet@tpg.com.au)

Scan this QR Code to check out full details of this Wellbeing Program.

Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families

ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS DESCRIPTION/TIMING

Coffee n Chat Veterans Mon – Fri early mornings – simply just a chat on the Train veranda (Veterans Support Centre)

Social Guild Veterans & partner Occasional social outings local or coach overnight

Hospital Visitations Veterans & partner

Usually Tuesday mornings; Teams of 2 visit veterans in local hospitals

Guitars for Vets Veterans Wednesday mornings @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train); learn to play or join a jam session

Monthly BBQ B’fast Veterans & family 8.00am last Thursday of 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 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 - @ St Marys Diggers Club

Wellbeing Activity for JULY 2023

DATE ACTIVITY

EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat

EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets

Wednesday 26 July

Merrie Widows

EVERY THURSDAY Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes

Thursday 27th July

Friday 7th July

RSL sub-Branch Xmas Lunch

Barefoot Bowls

EVERY FRIDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n chat

Saturday 8th July Walk n Talk

Over 5,000 teachers and support staff accept permanent roles

BY KERRIE DAVIES

ALMOST 5,500 teachers and support staff have accepted offers to become permanent employees in under two months, marking a significant milestone as the Minns Labor Government surges ahead with its election promise to tackle the teacher workforce shortage.

The Minns Labor Government has committed to offer 16,000 temporary teachers and school-based support staff conversion to permanent contracts by the beginning of Term 4, 2023.

The commitment aims to turn around the workforce crisis in NSW public schools, which last year saw a record 1,854 teachers resign. The NSW government claims some teachers who were considering leaving the profession are now staying thanks to the initiative, according to feedback given to the NSW Department of Education.

In a press release the NSW Government said in 2017 just 63 per cent of the teaching workforce in NSW public schools have had the security of a permanent position.

“Despite matching Labor’s commitment to convert 10,000 teachers to permanent contracts on 16 October 2022, the former Liberal National Government had made zero progress in achieving this promise prior to the state election,” the press release claimed.

“This result shows that the Minns Labor government is moving rapidly to fix the damage caused by the former Liberal-National Government’s failed “Local Schools, Local Decisions” policy.

“The Government is moving faster than anticipated with today’s milestone, after the initial tranche of

offers went out in late April to around 1400 staff in 250 schools.

“The first offers went to schools that support some of the state’s highest need students and communities, as well as eligible Aboriginal Education Officers and to staff in schools that have struggled the most to find staff.

“As of today, 5,463 staff at 982 schools have now accepted offers, under a phased rollout grouped by geographical region.

“Staff eligible for an offer have been working in their current school for at least three years. Staff who accepted offers by the end of May are anticipated to have their first day of permanent duty on Day 1, Term 3.

“All other permanent appointments under this program are anticipated to be in place by the start of the 2024 school year.

“This phased rollout will ensure the initiative is delivered without overburdening principals and the eligible staff.

“Offers do not depend on there being current permanent vacancies at the school, and principals have not been restricted in seeking to fill existing permanent vacancies while the initiative has been developed,” the release stated.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said more teachers are wanted, in front of the classroom, permanently.

“If the same teacher is teaching students day in, day out, they will get to know that class well to get the best results,” Mr Minns said.

“In 3 months, 5500 teachers and admin support staff have accepted offers for permanency.

“This is good for teachers, good for kids and good for our education in NSW.”

NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning and Londonderry MP Prue Car, said offering permanency to teachers and support staff shows we value our public education system and the people who work in it.

“Having a permanent position in a school gives teachers security and peace of mind, allowing them to do their job – which is to teach children,” Ms Car said.

“We are getting on with the job of addressing the teacher shortage by improving the conditions of teachers and support staff. Ultimately a stable and secure workforce will lead to better educational outcomes in the classroom.

“This is a vote of confidence in our government’s actions which is to restore pride in teaching and stop teachers from leaving the profession.”

Western Sydney University invites you to chill at Open Day

THE weather may be chilly but the welcome will be toasty and warm when Western Sydney University opens its doors to thousands of prospective students, their families and friends on Sunday, 2 July, as part of a winterthemed Open Day at the Parramatta campuses.

Prospective students will be able to take part in loads of fun, wintery activities this year, including taking a spin on an ice-skating rink. The University has brought Open Day forward to July this year, to ensure current high school leavers can immerse themselves in a fun day out and explore their future study and career options ahead of upcoming HSC trial exams.

Visitors to Open Day will enjoy food trucks, live music and entertainment, prizes and giveaways, and have the opportunity to receive helpful course advice, and participate in interactive tours and demonstrations of the University’s state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities.

These include high-tech nursing and midwifery labs designed to simulate a contemporary hospital ward setting, Pepper the world’s first humanoid robot, and being shown around a working ambulance by paramedicine students.

Importantly, prospective students will have plenty of hands-on opportunities across the day to learn more about what Western Sydney University has to offer and see why it was named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact for the second year running in the prestigious Times Higher Education Impact rankings – a first for an Australian university.

Ainsley Mann, a third-year paramedicine student and Student Services Hub team member, is one of the friendly faces who will be at Open Day. The aspiring paramedic from the Blue Mountains herself attended Western Sydney University’s Open Day as

a senior in high school, and found it an invaluable experience.

She said course advice from lecturers and the panel discussions featuring current students are a great way to get helpful tips about the student experience and learn more about the huge range of student clubs and societies on offer at the University.

Those considering upskilling or switching careers can also find out more about the wide range of flexible, industry-relevant microcredentials and short courses that best suit their professional needs, while current high school leavers can learn about early offer pathways such as the highly successful HSC True Reward program, according to Ainsley.

“I walked into Open Day uncertain of the degree I wanted to study – considering either law, criminology and medicine. When I left Open Day, I was confident I wanted to pursue health care,” Ainsley said.

She found studying a Bachelor of Paramedicine at the University provided her with an immense amount of professional and personal experience to prepare for an impactful career as a paramedic.

“I’m a practical, hands-on learner, and studying paramedicine was the perfect combination of theoretical and practical based learning, with

simulations in immersive interactive spaces and technology, and practical placements across the state of NSW and the world. I just recently returned from a 6-week paramedic placement in London with London Ambulance Service, and this was a life-changing experience.”

In addition to her studies, Ainsley is part of a dedicated team at the University’s Student Services Hub that provides support to prospective and current students. She will be among the many students, staff and academics on hand at Open Day to answer questions.

Her advice whether you’re a current high school student or a non-current school leaver, know what degree or career you’re interested in, or are still exploring your options, is to take the first step.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to explore one of our beautiful campuses, chat first-hand with our academics and students, experience the community vibe of Western, and take the first step in finding the right degree and career path for you.”

Sustainability will be a key feature of Open Day to minimise waste and go easy on the environment, including refillable water stations available for all to enjoy. In addition, several solar-powered smart benches around the campus will double as charging stations.

To get to the event, take public transport and make use of the free shuttle bus service that runs to the Parramatta South campus from the Parramatta City campus (169 Macquarie Street), which is adjacent to Parramatta Station.

Free parking will also be available at Rosehill Racecourse with shuttle buses taking guests to campus. Limited parking is available at the Parramatta South campus.

To register or for more information, visit www. westernsydney.edu.au/openday

Can you spare even $5 to help those in need?

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE bitterly cold winter nights have well and truly set in now, and the old ice pick is needed on some mornings to get your car out of the driveway.

As you jump in your nice warm bed tonight and lay back on your warm fluffy pillows, switching on your electric blanket if you have one, or pulling the ultra thick doona right up to your eyeballs so that only your eyebrows feel cold, spare a thought for our homeless and underprivileged people.

There are many around our area with various reasons for being without a home, including financial difficulty, battling addictions, mental illness, fleeing abuse and domestic violence. Some are living in cars, some in temporary shelters and and some are braving the elements and looking for shelter.

In these cold conditions, they are likely sleeping on cold concrete or grass, some with only a piece of cardboard for warmth. If you’re in a position to, now is a great time to donate blankets, warm jackets and tinned soups. Or maybe the next time you go shopping and spot gloves and beanies for a few dollars each, you could purchase a pair or two for someone who can’t afford them. Thick winter jackets, beanies, gloves, socks and tinned hot meals are all things that will come in handy to those who don’t have the comfort we have to come home to.

The Penrith CBD Corporation’s Winter Appeal is back again, collecting goods across our large region that will be placed into the hands of those who need them.

Proudly supported by Penrith RSL, Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM, Penrith Community Kitchen, NAB and The Creative Fringe, your donated items can really make a difference to someone’s life – particularly at this time of year.

We all know times have been tough for pretty much everyone over the last few years, but if you can spare as little as $20 you could purchase a beanie, scarf and socks for someone who is really feeling the cold.

If ever there’s a time where a kind gesture is appreciated by those in need, it is during the coldest months of the year.

As it is the EOFY, a donation to the winter appeal

is also tax deductible (check with your accountant if planning a sizable donation).

Penrith CBD Corporation CEO Gai Hawthorn, who was recently awarded the Order of Australia medal in recognition of her charity work, said they have recently partnered with Second Bite to organise emergency food hampers.

“We don’t want anyone to go hungry or freeze this winter,” Ms Hawthorn OAM said.

“If everyone could just spare a few dollars the problem would be addressed. Items or donations can be dropped off at the following places.”

Penrith RSL Club Penrith

Penrith CBD CorporationSuite 3, 488 High Street, Penrith NAB - Corner Henry and, Riley St, Penrith

Karen McKeown MP510-534 High Street Penrith

Creative Fringe - Unit 6/51 York Rd, Penrith Or phone 4722 5556 for more details

Penrith Community Kitchen will continue to offer a hot meal at lunch each day of the week and Westcare offers relief packs, clothing and supportbut now we need you to help ensure these services can continue to deliver.

If you can’t afford to buy a blanket The Creative Fringe is asking everyone to knit a 20 x 20 square which will become part of a warm woollen blanket. Go to their website www.thecreativefringe.com.au for further details.

Together we make a difference! You may only be able to afford one $5 scarf from Best and Less but that helps someone cold during winter and that is a big difference. Thank you in advance.

Please help keep our Penrith homeless & underprivileged community warm this winter!

To donate go to www.penrithcommunitykitchen.com.au

1. Purchase any new item for comfort packs Beanies, scarfs, gloves, instant heat packs (not electrical), socks and jackets and drop off at the following locations: Penrith RSL 8 Tindale St, Penrith, Office Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith, 510 High St, Penrith, NAB Bank cnr Riley & Henry St, Penrith

2. Cotribute to The Creative Fringe’s “Think outside the square Challenge” More details at www.thecreativefringe.com.au/product/think-outside-the-square-blanket-challenge/

3. Help the Penrith Community Kitchen provide a warm meal this Winter Make a donation directly to the Kitchen, www.penrithcommunitykitchen.com.au

For any further details please contact Penrith CBD Corp for more details: 4722 5556

beth@penrithcbdcorp.com.au

ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Puppies need the dentist too

While teething is generally not a painful process for your puppy, they may experience some discomfort in their jaw at this time. The best way to help them alleviate this is to provide your puppy with specifically-designed soft chew toys. This will also prevent unwanted chewing of other objects around the house.

Signs your puppy is teething

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

JUST like human babies, puppies are born with no teeth. Their first set of baby teeth, or milk teeth, grow in between 3-4 weeks of age. When your puppy is around 4-5 months old, these teeth will fall out to make room for their permanent set of adult teeth. By 5-7 months, all the adult teeth will be present. It is important to note this can vary depending on the breed. This means that puppies experience teething twice, once for their milk teeth and again with their adult teeth.

• red, inflamed gums

• drooling and offensive breath

• increased chewing behaviour –chewing is the most obvious sign that your puppy is teething and you can help them by providing them with safe toys and discouraging biting

• bleeding gums – a small amount of bleeding from the gums is normal and you may find specks of blood on your puppy’s favourite chew toys

• missing teeth – you may find these on the floor but it is also common and safe for your puppy to swallow these as they fall out

• decreased appetite – puppies may eat slower or less as it causes them discomfort

When is it necessary to see the vet?

While teething often involves some bleeding from the gums as your puppy’s sharp teeth emerge, if you notice a large amount of blood, immediately seek professional assistance from your vet. Before all your puppy’s adult teeth have grown in, you should book them in for a dental appointment for a precautionary checkup.

What to expect at the dental checkup

We will check your puppy for:

• crooked teeth – this can be caused by two teeth coming in at one spot, or if a baby tooth has not fallen out when the adult tooth is emerging.

• jaw misalignment – for some breeds with short muzzles, a slight underbite is normal However, if your puppy is showing signs of a strong underbite or overbite, intervention may be required to correct chewing and

eating issues in the future.

• bad breath – this is not normal in dogs and may indicate that your puppy has a low-grade infection

• broken or cracked teeth – if a tooth has broken below the gum line and the nerve is exposed, your puppy will be in discomfort and may develop an infection

• tartar build up – while tartar build up is uncommon in puppies, it occasionally does happen.

It is a good idea to implement a dental routine while your puppy is young to avoid dental diseases in the future. For more information, phone the 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

BEAUTIFUL JADE NEEDS A LOVING FAMILY

post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

SWEET TINA IS STILL WAITING FOR A HOME

SWEET MAXIE IS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION

If you can give our stunning tabby lady Jade a Forever Home then please come and meet her. Jade is a friendly, sweet girl that deserves a caring kind home. Meet Jade anytime during open hours...

Cost: $29.00 Age: 3 years

Type: Cat Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Sex: Female

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145

Tina is a sweet submissive girl she would be best suited with a family who will allow her to be a part of the family. If you feel you can give this gentle girl a loving home please come to the shelter to meet her.

Cost: $49.00 Age: 6 years

Type: Dog Breed: American Staffy

Sex: Female

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145

Maxie is a lovely boy who has been very well behaved while he has been with us. If you are interested in meeting him please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet him just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together.

Cost: $49.00 Age: 7 years and 5 months

Type: Dog Breed: American Staffy

Sex: Male

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination. R251000145

Nepean Therapy Dogs: “We want you!”

DO you love working with people and dogs? Keen to get out amongst the community and support a charity with a great cause?

Nepean Therapy Dogs are now recruiting for the below volunteer positions:

Office Support Volunteers - www.volunteer.com.au/.../office-support...

Volunteer Therapy Dog Assessor - www.volunteer.com.au/.../volunteertherapy-dog...

Therapy Dog Handler with Dog - www.volunteer.com.au/.../therapy-doghandler-with...

Or please visit the website to read through what their current awesome volunteers do, and click www.therapydogs.com.au/volunteer to send your application through.

They can’t wait to hear from you!

Winter warmers

WINTER can present many challenges for both people and their pets, but staying warm with your furry friends can be much easier than you think. There are only a few key things to remember with your pets and chilly weather, three easy-to-follow rules.

Keep them warm, keep them healthy, keep them safe.

Keep Your Pets Warm

As the temperature drops, your furry friends will need some help with staying warm. While it may look as though your pet has in-built protection from the cold, it’s important to keep them comfortable and protected from the elements.

If it’s cold for you outside, then it’s cold for your pet too. Keep your animals (big or small) warm indoors or in weather-proof shelter. Remember that very young, elderly, and sick animals will be more vulnerable to lower temperatures. As a precaution, keep them indoors to ensure they are sheltered from the cold.

If you are caring for smaller animals, bring them indoors overnight. If you are unable to bring them inside, ensure they are protected from the elements. Their outdoor hutch should have a weatherproof space, complete with warm, quality bedding. Their dwellings should also be raised from

the ground to prevent frost and water getting in.

Dressing your pets in warm clothes may help them regulate their body temperature. This is particularly important for animals with naturally shorter coats of fur. Ensure your pet is comfortable with the outfit that you gift them. Some animals don’t like wearing clothes – no matter how cosy they might seem!

Keep Your Pets Healthy

During winter, it may be tempting to turn into a couch potato, but giving your animals regular exercise remains important all year round.

Dogs will hate being cooped up, but their exercise needs remain the same. If it’s too cold or rainy outside, you could play indoor hide-and-seek, buy a food-dispensing toy, or do some trick training to keep them engaged.

For more enrichment resources and

ways to exercise your pet indoors, have a look through our website and keep your animals happy and fit.

Pets will also benefit from a little extra food in their bowls over the winter months, as they will require extra energy to maintain their body temperature. Be mindful to watch your pet’s weight though as too much food can lead to obesity problems.

Additionally, your pets can just as easily become dehydrated in winter as they can in summer. Be sure your furry friend has easy access to fresh drinking water and remember that snow is not an adequate alternative for your pet.

Keep Your Pets Safe

Although the cold might have you focused on keeping your lovable furry friends warm, the winter weather can bring new and unexpected challenges for their safety.

Heating appliances and flames can pose serious risk to pets, who may investigate fires or power cords if not kept safely out of reach.

If you do not have an undercover area to position a pets’ outdoor shelter or hutch, tarpaulins can help protect your pets’ home from the dangerous effects of the wind and rain. However, if extreme weather occurs, bring your animals inside wherever possible.

The dangers facing outdoor cats

increases dramatically during the winter. Cats may find your car to be a warm and inviting spot to cuddle. They may hide beneath the hood, on top of the wheels, and in other tight spots in your vehicle. To avoid injuring any cats that are simply seeking warmth, check under and around your car before starting your engine.

Even if you don’t personally own a cat, inspecting your car is always a good idea as stray or neighbourhood cats may still use your car for shelter.

Cats are naturally drawn to warm places to take shelter from the cold, so inviting your cat inside during winter might be the perfect opportunity for them to learn how to live safely and happily at home.

For more information about transitioning cats to a safer life indoors, visit the RSPCA NSW website. Alternatively, check out our blog for more helpful in-depth guides.

This week in pictures

Legends of the Nepean Celebrate 60th Wedding Anniversary

BY NOEL ROWSELL

NEPEAN NEWS Legends of the Nepean Graham and Marj Elphick celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary earlier this year, enjoying the occasion quietly at home as they were both recovering from Covid, and other family members were also affected by Covid at that time.

Graham and Marj met at a Col Joye Rock and Roll Concert at Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla in 1958, and hit it off together straight away.

They were married in Cabramatta Baptist Church on 12th January 1963, living for a few years at Canley Vale, before moving to North St. Marys in 1969, where they still live today.

They both worked as volunteers at St. Marys North Public School for 40 years, growing vegetables and chrysanthemums for the school to sell, and had a large greenhouse at the school, where they grew plant cuttings for sale

Graham and Marj also ran two ‘chook’ yards, with the eggs being sold to make money for the school, which meant 365 days a year working to keep the chickens fed, and maintain the veggies and chrysanthemums. Marj worked also as a Teacher’s Aide, and Graham played Santa for both the school and pre-school.

Graham and Marj were both made Life Members of the P&C Association and both worked as volunteers on the school’s Breakfast Club for 24 years, from its inception to closing at the start of COVID.

They have also worked as volunteers for the Penrith Museum of Printing, located in the grounds of Penrith Paceway, for the past 23 years, with

Graham being a foundation member. Graham has Life Membership of the Museum and Marj is an Honorary Friend of the Museum.

Marj also worked for many years as a volunteer on the St. Marys Development Committee, helping organise the St. Marys Spring Festival.

They have been blessed with three wonderful sons, twelve grandchildren and nineteen greatgrandchildren.

Marj and Graham have never had a heated argument. If an argument is looming, they separate

Innovation Roof

and do something productive, instead of something destructive. Their recipe for a great marriage is whenever an argument is threatening, go for a long walk, clear your mind, and come back home and talk the troubles through, and NEVER go to bed ANGRY.

Graham & Marj Elphick - 60th Wedding Anniversary and Wedding. Photos supplied

Nepean District Historical Society annual Historical Festival and Open Day

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Nepean District Historical Society will be holding its free ‘Annual Historical Festival and Open Day’ at the Arms of Australia Inn Museum in Emu Plains on Sunday July 16th 2023, running from 10am to 3pm.

There will be special displays at the Inn, telling the history of the building and the Penrith area.

The NSW Corps of Marines will be at the festival and will be in charge of keeping law and order.

As in previous years, there will be activities for the young and oldincluding the old-fashioned school room where you can write on slates, the Penrith Printing Museum, Antique & Classic Motor Club cars, the Pioneer Timber Cutters, a bookstall, Morse Code Club and plant sales,

Tax Time: Remain alert to sophisticated scams

TAX season brings an influx of cyber threats and a timely reminder to ensure online security measures are in order.

With tax time on the horizon, Norton, a leading Cyber Safety brand of Gen™ (NASDAQ: GEN), is warning Australians to remain cautious over the coming months as various tax specific scams begin to emerge.

Tax time can bring stress and confusion for both individuals and businesses as they prepare to file their returns with the ATO. Unfortunately, this breeds the perfect environment for cybercriminals who seek to prey on these vulnerable emotions and obtain sensitive information and cause both financial and personal harm to unsuspecting victims.

In 2022, Australians lost over $3 billion to scammers according to the ACCC, and the numbers are only expected to continue to increase unless people remain more vigilant and stay one step ahead of savvy fraudsters.

Mark Gorrie, APAC managing director at Norton says, “There are certain times each year that pique cybercriminals’ interest and tax time is one of them. With the amount of personal and financial information that is being stored and shared at this time, coupled with the stress that comes with filing tax returns, it is the perfect storm for scammers to target Australians.”

“Tax time can be difficult to navigate, and it can be easy to fall into the palm of a scammer offering to ease this burden. But it is important to understand that practising online security should never be sacrificed in exchange for convenience.

“In the wake of greater sophistication and a rise in AI that is aiding cybercriminals in evolving and developing their devious tactics, it is more important than ever that Australians are continuing to educate themselves on the warning signs.”

Mark has shared three examples of prevalent tax scams to look out for, plus ways to avoid them.

1. Tax-related identity theft. This scam occurs when cybercriminals access a victim’s account, impersonate them, and fraudulently lodge refunds from the ATO using your stolen personal information, including your tax file number (TFN). This can be dangerous, as in this instance, the cybercriminal who filed a return with your information may still have your data – leaving you vulnerable to other identity-related crimes.

How to avoid this scam:

Keep your tax file number safe. Shred any documents that contain personal information before you throw them away, and ensure that your online accounts containing sensitive information, like myGov, are protected with strong passwords and two factor authentication.

If you suspect your TFN and identity has been compromised, immediately report the incident to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Consider using a robust security software, like Norton 360. This will help protect your personal devices and information, and act as a first line of defense against attempts by criminals to steal or compromise your personal information.

2. Be cautious of Australian Taxation Office (ATO) impersonation scams. Cybercriminals will pose as ATO representatives to convince victims to provide their bank details, Tax File Number, or other personal information via SMS, email, or social media accounts.

Additionally, in January this year, the ATO issued a warning about scammers posing as ATO workers on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and other popular social media platforms. These phony accounts prey on social media users who have made public

comments addressing the ATO with a question or complaint. The scammer sends their victim a direct message, offering to assist in resolving the issue. After gaining trust, the scammer attempts to obtain personal information.

How to avoid this scam:

● Look out for tell-tale signs of a scam. The ATO won’t use urgent threats, such as arrest, payment, or suspension of your TFN. If contacted via social media by a newly created unverified account with a small follower account, delete the message. The ATO only has official accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn – legitimised with verification ticks and over 10 years of activity.

● If you receive a suspected scam email or SMS, do not click on any links, provide any payments, account log in information, or other personal information.

● Occasionally, the ATO will contact you by phone, email, SMS, and post. If you are not sure about the validity of any communication, the best thing to do is to call the ATO directly. You can obtain a phone number from their official website, or a previous letter you have received, and validate the request.

3. Dodgy tax preparers offering to complete your tax refund. Scammers capitalising on the desire for maximum tax refunds will promise substantial returns and a speedier process, which can appear to be an enticing offer in an otherwise confusing and stressful time. The fraudsters will ask for access to the myGov accounts of their victims and lodge tax returns through the ATO’s myTax web portal or take personal details and payment before disappearing.

How to avoid this scam:

If someone approaches you claiming to be a tax preparer, you can check that they are registered on the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) by visiting their website to verify the legitimacy of their claims. (https://www.tpb.gov.au/registrations_search)

Never share your myGov password with anyone. Sharing your information (such as your myGov password) with an unregistered practitioner puts your personal and financial affairs at risk. Enable two factor authentication on myGov. You can use either the myGov Code Generator app or receive a code by SMS when logging in. This will further protect you from unauthorised access to your myGov account.

including a Bonsai Display, plus a Tea Room, BBQ and drinks. Entertainment will include

Harmony Choir. All enquiries can be made at 02 4735 4394, via the website www.

The Arms of Australia Inn. Photo supplied.

School holiday fun

kids crossword puzzle

Colours

Word Search

Can you find the words hidden in the puzzle?

RED YELLOW WHITE

BLUE ORANGE BLACK

PINK PURPLE GREEN

GREY BROWN SILVER

Join us these holidays at The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery

STAY warm and keep the whole family entertained these July School Holidays with our fun and creative shows and workshops at The Joan and Penrith Regional Gallery.

The award-winning duo, The Listies will have you literally laughing out loud with their ‘badaptation’ of Hamlet. Join us at the Gallery to be inspired by our current exhibitions and make your creations.

The Listies and Critical Stages

Touring presents

Hamlet: Prince of Skidmark

Created by Richard Higgins, Matt Kelly and Declan Greene

Suitable for Ages 5+ and their families

Don’t miss the maestros of children’s comedy, The Listies, as they head to The Joan for the first time these Winter School Holidays to bring you their multi awardwinning, side-splitting ‘badaptation’ of Shakespeare’s classic play.

Cheeky, clever and utterly irreverent, this is the Bard as you never imagined possible! In true Listies style, the hilarious duo has pulled apart Hamlet and glued it back together with hilarious costumes, supersonic storytelling, gags, silliness and plenty of interactivity!

And that’s not all…expect bonus

pillow fights, pirates, ninjas, ninja pirates, aliens, ninja pirate aliens, zombies and a bunch of other hilarious stuff as The Listies take kids and their adults on a fun-filled hour of theatre. The only thing we can be sure of is that everyone dies at the end –including the audience!

Dates & Times

Thursday 13 July at 6pm

Friday 14 July at 10am & 1pm

Tickets

Standard Ticket $25, Family of 4 Pass $90

A booking fee of $5 applies to all transactions.

Venue

Q Theatre, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street, Penrith

MAKE art, get messy, and have fun at the Gallery these school holidays. Kids and teens can explore our current exhibitions before getting stuck into their own art collage, painting, paper sculpture, or polymer clay project.

All workshops are held at Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest, 86 River Road, Emu Plains.

POLYMER CLAY WORKSHOP FOR AGES 12 – 16

Create beautiful and fun clay pieces inspired by the work of Jeannie Baker in this hands-on workshop. Teens will have the opportunity to view collages from Jeannie’s latest book Desert Jungle before creating a series of artworks and objects from polymer clay.

Date & Time

Tuesday 4 July, 10am – 12pm

Tickets $35 per participant (includes all materials)

Medieval lords, maidens, unicorns and battles fair

IMMERSE yourself in reallife Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings adventures at the Winterfest Sydney Medieval Fair!

Winterfest is back on 1-2 July 2023 at the Hawkesbury Showground, 10am to 5pm.

At Winterfest you can venture to a world with free-flying birds of prey, knights, vikings and peasants, unicorns and orcs.

From jousting, archery and combat to crafts, cooking and games, this popular two-day event features an extensive program to delight the whole family.

Immerse yourself in the action with a wonderful line-up of entertainment, including:

• The exciting Winterfest Jousting Tournament: see the face-off between champions in the sport of kings!

• International Full Contact Fighting: The best from Australia, New Zealand, and China compete in the Historical Medieval Battles (HMB) tournament for selection to represent their country in the Battle of the Nations World Championships.

• Graceful and powerful raptors fly free in the Full Flight Birds of Prey display. Learn about birds of prey in Australia and the history of falconry.

• Melee Battles with knights in armour from a range of historical periods. Watch the groups battle for supremacy in the ‘Combat and Arms’ display, which concludes with the ‘Grand Melee’!

• The Mounted Skill-at-Arms, demonstrating the skills required for knights in training and for battle.

• The Re-enactors’s Row, where you can try helmets, armour, shields and weapons. Friendly re-enactors from the dark ages through to the 17th century enjoy sharing their knowledge about the people and period they are re-enacting.

Discover traditional skills being kept alive in Artisan Alley with displays throughout the day, including blacksmithing, woodworking, and leatherwork, and take a stroll through

the Merchant’s Row to browse the vibrant range of stalls including quality artisan and handcrafted wares.

Roaming entertainers add to the festival atmosphere, including musicians and minstrels, and Feldergast the Fool the wandering jester.

Treat yourself with many delicious foods to choose from including slow cooked pulled pork and mini Dutch pancakes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options are available.

Have a go at hands-on activities including a traditional archery range, Celtic drumming workshops, and the chance to learn to use a rapier. Have your photo taken with a unicorn, and kids can have a go of a (safe) sword and shield at the Kids’ Knight School.

Immerse yourself in the festival

environment by wearing something a bit different from the usual.

The Winterfest Costume and Cosplay competition is always popular. Join the competition parade for judging, or if that’s not your thing, you may be surprised with an on-the-spot prize. Come along in a medieval-inspired outfit or fantasystyle clothing; all medieval periods, cultures and styles are welcome.

Venue: Hawkesbury Showground, 40 Racecourse Road, Clarendon. Free, easy on-site parking, with disabilities and seniors’ space close to gate entrance. Two minutes’ walk to Clarendon railway station.

Tickets: Pre-purchase online for discounts, or buy at the gate. Details: winterfest.com.au, Facebook or Instagram.

CROSS WORD

ACROSS

8 Monetary penalty (4)

9 A variety show (10)

10 A member of an 18th century English religious sect (6)

11 The Bluegrass State (8)

12 Yield (4)

13 Zero gravity (10)

17 A grandson of Adam (4)

18 Church deacon (5)

19 Reject (4)

20 Irish cudgel (10)

22 Secure with cables (4)

23 Cranky (8)

27 Astounds (6)

28 Steal someone else’s writing (10)

29 Social rendezvous (4)

DOWN

1 18th (10)

2 Rash (8)

3 In all places (10)

4 Submerged (4)

5 Avid (4)

6 Not audio (6)

7 Antiaircraft fire (4)

14 2nd most populous country (5)

15 Stubborn (10)

16 Outline of a shadow (10)

19 Orders (8)

21 A public waiting room (6)

24 Snake-like fishes (4)

25 At a distance (4)

26 Simpleton (4)

solution

Penrith Production: Prisoner of the Past

TOWER OF LONDON’S GHOSTS

Written and Directed by Anthony Brown

Mandy and Lorie are cleaners of The Tower of London who stumble across some of the ghosts of the cold and forbidding tower.

Place: A room in the Tower of London.

Time: The present.

ASYLUM

Written by Alec Baron

Directed by Anthony Brown

In this compelling, thought-provoking play about the continuing effects of the Second World War, Dr. Kirshner has to make a decision on whether or not Bauermann can be released into society.

Place: Hohlehof Mental Health Sanatorium in West Germany.

Time: 1970.

Ticket price is $30 for adults and $25 concession.

To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/CHBQK

To reserve show only email rubyproductions99@gmail. com

“PRISONER OF THE PAST” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street, Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au

Women In The Creative Arts

Join us for a very special Panel discussion

AS part of our popular Women

Out West series, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts (PP&VA) is excited to bring you another special panel discussion this July, Women in the Creative Arts

This exclusive event features a distinguished panel who will share their experiences as arts workers and artists and give you an insight into their creative practices.

We invite you to join us and be part of the continuing advocacy for equality, diversity, safety and growth.

There will also be an opportunity for audience participation with a Q&A.

Women out West is supported by Nepean News

TICKET PRICE

Standard $10

A booking fee of $5 applies.

DATE & TIME

Thursday 20 July, 6.30pm - 8pm

VENUE

Mullins Studio, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre

597 High Street, Penrith

Award-winning with a wide appeal and a cheeky, no-gimmicks and superbly observed sense of humour, Jimeoin has audiences in stitches across the UK, Europe, USA and of his adopted homeland of Australia.

Catch his brilliant smash-hit Jimeoin: The Craic! show on tour. The press say that he’s at the very top of the game – and we absolutely agree! It’s a great fun night out and we recommend you book fast.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2023 AT 8 PM – 10 PM

Jimeoin: THE CRAIC!

St Marys Band Club - The Bandy

The wait is overPenrith Producers returns Friday 23 June from 5pm-9pm!

Penrith Council is greening the Great West Walk by planting additional trees such as mulberry trees and native tree species. Planting these trees will boost amenity and increase shade to help reduce ambient temperatures.

After community consultation, the trees will be planted along the walk rather than in one concentrated grove, resulting in a more diverse and interesting landscape for all walkers to enjoy.

Additional native tree species will be planted along the Walk to complement these trees and provide support local wildlife and more shade in the area.

For further information, please visit https://yoursaypenrith.com.au/greeninggreatwestwalk This project is part of the Greening the Great West Walk Program that is proudly funded by the NSW Government.

Saturday, June 24th the Orchard Hills Rural Fire Brigade will be joining Caddens Corner at their fabulous car show! Come on down and say hello from 6pm and don’t forget to layer up and stay warm.

The Morehead Family

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

THE Morehead family like many other families coming from overseas were determined to keep the name “Arthur” within the family tree. Arthur James Morehead, born in Ireland in 1810 came to Australia with his family on the “Thomas & Henry” as unassisted immigrants in July 1851 from Draperstown, a village in the Sperrin Mountains in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, shortly after settling in the Luddenham area at Greendale. Arthur married Eliza Margaret Duff at Campbelltown in 1854 and they began farming in the area. A daughter Elizabeth married William Graham of Silverdale. William and Robert Morehead however settled in the South Coast near Bermagui. They became interested in trading and their boat the “Jane Morehead” was one of the best-known boats trading on the South Coast. In 1882 Arthur James was the owner of a sawmill in the area that was purchased by William Webb and in 1889 he was known around the district for winning with his prize race horses, draft horses and cattle at the Luddenham shows. In 1889 his horse “Lady Cooper” just lost a horse race to Arthur Graham’s “Jane” for £5 a-side and in 1891 a notice of a challenge from Abe Easterbrook giving Arthur notice to run a fair and square race with his horse “Blinkboy” against Arthur’s horse “Forsaken” with Arthur taking up the challenge for a half mile on Penrith Racecourse for any sum from £10 or more. The Luddenham show in May 1891 showed that several members of the Morehead family won prizes, Arthur won prizes for Best Filly Draft horse (1year & under 2 years) and in the cattle section he won best prize for two heifers. In August 1894 he was at a public sendoff for Mr T J F Cadden who was the local manager of the Commercial Bank in Penrith and was being transferred to the Queanbeyan branch. In March 1896 he was still winning prizes at the show for two of his stallions “Limerick” and coaching mare “Juliet”. Arthur James died in 1898 in Greendale and is buried at the St Marks Anglican church there. His son Arthur was born at Greendale, Luddenham in 1872 and married Martha Christina Earlam at St Thomas’s Church in Mulgoa in December 1893. Her parents were Isacc Earlam and Jessie Henderson. Arthur started farming in the Luddenham district and in 1904 he bought a well-known and highly improved property from the Walker family at Chatsworth Road, Mt Druitt. Few men in the district identified themselves more active and with the religious, pastoral, commercial and civic life of the community, he was always honoured and respected by all he encountered. He served as a Councillor on the Blacktown Shire Council for many years and was President for four terms. He was a member of the Cumberland Pastures Protection Board for about 27 years and at one time was the Chairman. This Board met originally at Penrith and later at Flemington then the headquarters moved to Moss Vale. Arthur considered the extra travelling too much for his health and he retired. He was also Chairman of the Nepean Co-op Dairy Society for several years and President of the well-known Mt Druitt Hall. He

was a most active churchman and a regular worshipper. During his later years he took over the Secretary’s work of the “Log Cabin Church” that was destroyed by fire. He was keenly interested in livestock, cattle and horses in particular, and in his former years he was a noted exhibitor at shows and a great prize winner just like his father before him. It was said that a visit to his home was something never to be forgotten. Arthur was justly proud of his many trophies. His dairy herd was a notable one and he dearly loved both the blood horse and draught horse and a visit to a showground or a racecourse with Arthur always left pleasant memories. People said that men like Arthur came all too rarely, and his life and reputation in the Nepean district was an inspiration to others to go and do likewise. In 1921 Arthur bought 306 acres of land on the Great Western Road and Ropes Creek at Colyton and before his death Arthur sold some of his property and had hopes to spend his remaining years in another old historic home, but it didn’t eventuate. He died in March 1953 in the Nepean District Hospital after a short illness. Condolences and deepest sympathy in their bereavement were to his widow Martha of (Mt Druitt) his sons Messrs: Percy Herbert Arthur Morehead (Mt Druitt), Cyril Morehead-Government Stamps Office (Kingsford), Don Morehead (St Marys), Eric Keith Morehead (in Japan WW2 - 2nd AIF), Mrs Albert Ward (Wentworthville) and Mrs Daniel Brell (Homebush) Two daughters Misses Alice Nina and Thelma Ivy Morehead died before Arthur. Thelma died aged 44 years found drowned in a dam on her father’s property in 1950 and Alice died aged 50 years in September 1951 at Mt Druitt, and both are buried with their parents. Arthur’s funeral service was conducted by Rector the Reverend E H Lambert and Mrs Edith Pearson presided at the organ. It was very largely attended by a representative gathering of friends and relatives who travelled many miles to pay their last tribute to a good man and an old friend. Some of them could not get into the church that was full. Many fine tributes were paid to the Rector who delivered the funeral oration and who knew of the excellent qualities possessed by Arthur. Telegrams, letters and floral tributes came from all around the district. Among the visiting clergy were the Reverend A J Barrett (Mt Druitt) and Reverend Shearman (Wentworthville). Among the many businessmen present were Mr R Inglis (representing the well-known bloodstock salesmen) and many old identities from the Camden, Cobbitty, Luddenham, Mulgoa, Penrith, Richmond, Windsor, Parramatta and Blacktown districts. Arthur’s remains were laid to rest in the family plot in the old historic church ground to sleep among so many of the pioneers of the district. His widow Martha lived until May 1959 at the age of 88 years and is buried with Arthur at St Mary Magdalene cemetery.

Sources: Nepean Times, NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages, Trove, Ancestry, Wikitree website, NSW State archives at Kingswood, Anglican Parish Records for Marriage at St Thomas’s church Mulgoa.

 Photo of Arthur Morehead courtesy of Blacktown Memories website

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Fox shines in Tacen to win World Cup Gold

BY NOEL ROWSELL

JESS Fox won an incredible fourth gold medal for the 2023 ICF World Cup season, on Saturday night in Ljubljana, Slovenia, with victory in the women’s K1. She later grabbed a bronze medal in the Women’s Kayak Cross, taking her tally of World Cup medals this year to five.

Australian officials will be thrilled to have had finalists in five of the

events at Tacen, including Noemie Fox (4th) and Jess Fox (10th) in the WC1, Tristan Carter (4th) and Mark Crosbee (10th) in the MC1, Jess (1st) in the WK1, Tim Anderson (7th) and Lucien Delfour (10th) in the MK1 and Jess again (3rd) in the Women’s Kayak Cross.

Jess bounced back from a disappointing WC1 Final on Friday, where she missed a gate to finish at the end of the 10-woman field. An impressive WK1 run locked away back-to-back WK1 World Cup gold

medals and continues her love affair with the Tacen course, where she has now won gold every time she has raced there since 2013.

“I think I have a kind of love-hate relationship with Tacen,” Jess said. “I can’t be mad at the course today, but I was definitely feeling it yesterday. It’s definitely been amazing to come back and race here, the crowds are always really great to be in front of, and the course is always challenging.

“We’ve had three weeks of backto-back racing, which is quite tough,

physically demanding and mentally taxing. This new program is pretty challenging, because there are no rest days, so I’m looking to a few days off”

Jess won the WK1 event in 96.22s, well clear of Viktoriia Us (Ukraine) on a time of 98.91, with Elena Lilik (Germany) just 0.01 seconds back in third.

She finished 3rd in the Kayak Cross, behind winner Veronika Vojtova (CZE) and runner-up Eva Tercelj (SLO).

Grant opportunity for young athletes and para-athletes in Lindsay

FEDERAL Member for Lindsay, Mrs Melissa McIntosh MP, is pleased to announce that the latest round of the Local Sporting Champions (LSC) and Local Para Champions (LPC) programs is now open, with applications to be assessed for competitions held until 30 November 2023.

The Australian Sports Commission started the LSC and LPC grant programs to provide financial support to young athletes and their families.

“I encourage all local young athletes and young athletes with a disability in my community who are entered into a championship to apply to the current LSC and LPC funding rounds so they can be assisted in achieving their sporting goals,” said Mrs McIntosh.

“These grants provide important funding to ensure financial considerations are not a barrier for junior athletes and para-athletes to keep taking part in the sports they enjoy.

“Being in a championship is the dream of many young people in my community, and it is important they be supported in achieving the aspirations that mean so much to them.

“For the many young para-athletes in my community, participating in a sporting championship can be faced with additional obstacles.

“Having a disability means our young para-athletes are even more passionate about their sports and are

motivated to train hard to take their sporting careers to the next level.

“Many families in my community spend countless hours travelling Australia for their children to compete, and this can become expensive.

“The grants can really help families to recover some of the costs, and every bit of help counts.”

Local Sporting Champions Program

● The LSC program provides financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged 12 to 18 participating in state, national or international championships.

● Since 2008, 75,000 junior athletes have received the LSC grant, supporting them to achieve their

sporting goals.

● Successful LSC applicants will receive $500 to $750 towards the cost of attending their championships.

Local Para Champions Program

● The LPC program provides financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged 12 to 24 participating in state, national or international championships for athletes with a disability.

● The aim of the LPC grant program is to assist with the costs associated with competing in events for athletes with a disability at the elite or sub elite level.

● In addition to athletes with disability, the LPC grant supports coaches, officials, and other distinct

support roles, such as guides and assistants who enable the sportsperson to participate.

● If successful, applicants will receive $750 to $1000 towards the cost of attending their championships. Applications close for the LSC and LPC grant programs on 31 July 2023, and applicants must meet the eligibility criteria to be considered for selection.

If you are interested in making an application, you can submit it online at: https://sportaus.smartygrants. com.au

For further information or clarification on the assessment process, including your application status and outcome, please contact: lsc@ausport. gov.au.

Jess Fox Celebrates WK1 Gold in Tacen.

Jess Fox - Kayak Cross Bronze. Photos courtesy of Bence Vekassy.

Locals to contest 2023 NSW Junior Golf Championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2023 NSW Junior Golf Championships and JNJG State Age Championships will be played at Ocean Shores Country Club and Byron Bay Golf Club, from Tuesday, July 04 - Friday, July 07.

The following events will be played over 72 Holes; NSW Junior Championships, JNJG State Age Championships (Scratch Divisions), JNJG State Age Championships (Nett Divisions) and JNJG State Age Championships (Plate Division - for those who miss the cut).

The following events will be played over 36 Holes; NSW Junior Champion of Champions, NSW Country Junior Championships, Inter-District Teams Championships.

Over the first two days of the tournament, all

players will play 18 Holes at Byron Bay Golf Club and 18 Holes at Ocean Shores Country Club.

At the conclusion of the second round (Wednesday evening), a cut will be made and all players who make the cut will play the final two rounds on Thursday and Friday at Ocean Shores Country Club. These players will compete for the NSW Junior Championships and JNJG State Age Scratch and Nett Division Titles.

All players who miss the cut will play the final two rounds on Thursday and Friday at Byron Bay Golf Club, competing for the JNJG State Age Plate Division Titles.

Local juniors entered in the NSW Junior Championships are: Annoushka Maikap, Darcy Mackay, Savannah Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Hudson Hughes (Penrith GC), Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / NSW GC), Camilla Kim, Chayse Thorpe, Matthew Fullerton, Ryan Fletcher (Lynwood CC).

Leonay GC hosts 2023 JNJG U12 Tour Event

60 YOUNG golfers will tee off at Leonay GC on Sunday 25th June, in the 2023 JNJG U12 Tour event.

The event is part of the new U12 JNJG Tour schedule, which was first introduced this year, and is open to any player 12 years and under with an official 18 hole GA handicap. There are both Boys and Girls divisions at each U12 event.

The local players are Harrison Oram (Richmond GC), Emma Norman (Richmond GC), Hunter McMillan (Twin Creeks GC) and Talan Bale (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC).

Tee times will be available prior to the event at https://jnjg2023jnjgunder12tourleonay.golfgenius.com/pages/9481065298443419103

Leonay & Wallacia playoff bound in Master Pennant

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE final round of the 2023 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition was played on Sunday 18th June, resulting in a mixed bag of results for local clubs, but success for Leonay and Wallacia, which are both now headed to the playoffs.

Despite losing 6-2 to Northbridge away from home, Leonay will progress to the playoffs at the top of Division 3, Section 4.

Wallacia is also through to the playoffs, following a 5-3 win over Bardwell Valley away from home in Division 4, Section 2.

Penrith won 5-3 over Castle Hill but still finished at the bottom of

Division 1, Section 3; Dunheved lost 5-3 to Liverpool to finish at the bottom of Division 2, Section 2. As a result, both clubs will now play in Relegation Playoff matches in a bid to remain in their current divisions.

The full results are as follows, with home clubs listed first. Div 1: Pennant Hills 6-2 over Stonecutters Ridge, Dunheved down 5-3 to Liverpool and Penrith 5-3 over Castle Hill. Div 2: Ryde-Parramatta 5-3 over Twin Creeks, Springwood 5-3 over Macquarie Links and Bayview 6.5-1.5 over Glenmore Heritage Valley. Div 3: Richmond down 5-3 to Bankstown, Northbridge 6-2 over Leonay. Div 4: Bardwell Valley down 5-3 to Wallacia.

Panthers star to play key role for Tall Ferns in Women’s Asia Cup

BY NOEL ROWSELL

PENRITH basketball fans will have divided loyalties when the 2023 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup begins in Sydney this month, with point guard Tahlia Tupaea suiting up for the New Zealand Tall Ferns.

Tahlia was the 2022 Tauihi Aotearoa (NZ) MVP, playing a starring role for Northern Kāhu in the inaugural season of the Kiwi Women’s League, averaging 18.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 2.7 steals a game.

She recently reclassified her international status via FIBA to be available for the Tall Ferns and has overcome a recent calf injury just in time for the Asia Cup.

A former Penrith junior representative and an Australian junior representative at both under-17 and under-19 level, Tahlia has also played in the Australian WNBL since she was 15, initially for the Sydney Flames and currently with the Canberra Capitals.

The Tall Ferns have been drawn in a pool alongside China, Korea and Lebanon and will play Korea on 26th June at 11am.

Australia has drawn Japan, the Phillipines and Chinese Taipei, with their first game also on 26th June against the Phillipines.

Blake Hodges. File photos courtesy of JNJG

Action from the Penrith vs Castle Hill match on Sunday. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au) Graeme Howland and Pete Morris

Tahlia Tupaea (with ball) in action for the Panthers in the NBL1 East competition. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

HSRCA host Sydney Classic at SMSP

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Historic Sport and Race Car Association (HSRCA) 2023

Sydney Classic was held at Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP) over the King’s Birthday long weekend, with a private practice session on Friday 9th, followed by two days of racing on both the 10th and 11th of June.

The meeting offered races for all of the Association’s usual fifth category vehicles, as well as speed events for vehicles manufactured up to the 1990s, plus invited cars deemed compatible with those groups. In particular, HSRCA were honoured to host Heritage Touring Cars’ inaugural combined grid, featuring 2.0L Super Tourers and Early 5.0-Litre V8s, along

with a special Group N endurance race on Sunday.

“We were blessed with a pictureperfect winter weekend, which turned out to be a rather relaxed affair at Sydney’s iconic SMSP,” said Seth Reinhardt, Web, HSRCA.

“A lighter entry list than anticipated did little to dampen the mood or impede the racing, which was excellent throughout the weekend in near-perfect conditions. The atmosphere throughout the pits and paddock was supremely relaxed, social and friendly, which made for a great weekend and good vibes all ‘round. As usual, private practice was hosted by the circuit and ARDC on Friday, giving competitors an opportunity to get settled in and put the final touches on the cars ahead of a big weekend of motorsport.”

Classes racing on the weekend were

Regularity; L,M, O Sports & Racing & Fvee; Q&R Sports & Racing & Invited; Group S; Sports Sedans & Supersprint; Formula Ford; Groups C & A & Invited; Group N & Invited.

“The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) hot laps were another highlight for many,” said Seth. “Organised by Dave Williamson, these hot laps provide people suffering from MS an opportunity for passenger laps in race cars at speed. Thanks to everyone involved in getting this idea up and running, in particular Kumaresh Siva, whose idea it was to get these wonderful people into a race car for some hot laps. We hope to continue the event, and will look for more opportunities to improve and expand it.

“As always, we’d like to extend a massive thank you to all of the competitors, family and friends who

joined us over the weekend with their beautifully-prepared machinery and good company. The quieter weekend made for a very social event, and we were pleased to spend time with everyone following the long break after the 2022 Summer Festival.

“Most importantly, it takes a huge amount of work from many people to make an event like the Sydney Classic possible and we would like to send our thanks to the many volunteers and supporters who put this meeting on. We’d be going nowhere fast without you and are greatly appreciative of all that you do.

“We’ll be back at SMSP for the Summer Festival over November 24 to 26 and look forward to seeing you there. Thank you from Noel, Robyn, Rod, Wayne, and the HSRCA committee for your support of the 2023 HSRCA Sydney Classic.”

Panthers share spoils in Bull Fight

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Panthers have split their results against the Inner West Bulls, on Saturday night at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre (PVRSC), Cambridge Park, with the women scoring an emphatic 87-68 win and the men falling 108-86.

WNBL and New Zealand national team import Tahlia Tupaea made a welcome return for the Panthers women and her presence proved inspirational, as all of Penrith’s ‘starting 5’ scored in double figures.

“It was a very satisfying win, and Chloe Williams with 19 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists (very close to a triple double),” said head coach Bernie Slattery.

“And that’s it for Tahlia (playing with the Panthers), as she plays in the NZ WNBL immediately after the Asia Cup, and then straight to the Canberra Capitals for the Australian WNBL season.

“We played possibly our most complete game for the 2023 season on Saturday night. The return of Tahlia for one game also spurred the Panthers on, as we slowly pulled away in each quarter to record a 19-point win.

“The starting group all registered double figures in scoring, led by Meg Jefferson with 20 points and 13 rebounds, Chloe Williams 19 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists, Emily Matthews 10 points, Tahlia recorded

14 points, 6 assists, and a great contribution from Chloe Bloom (in her second game back from a lay-off and illness) added 10 points - and her presence allows us to function more efficiently as a group.

“After our best game to date, we host the Hills Hornets this coming Saturday in another game sure to be a tough contest. We would love to see a big crowd come out to support the hometown Panthers this Saturday evening.”

The men’s game was an arm wrestle through the first quarter, with the Bulls holding a 28-27 lead at the break. The second quarter followed the same pattern, before the Bulls struck late, out-scoring the home team 10-1 in the last 1:39 seconds of the term to lead 55-46 at half time. The Bulls built a similar advantage through the third term to lead 87-69 at the final break, then out-scored the Panthers again in the fourth term to win by 22 points.

Blake Morrow led the Bulls with 33 points, ahead of Christopher Bryant 30 points, 9 boards and Alexander Higgins-Titsha 23 points, 13 boards. Pranaya Sakya led the Panthers with 19 points, ahead of Tomas Ramos 16, Caleb Fetui-Fa’amoe 15 points, 9 boards and Jaedyn Fetui-Fa’amoe 12 points.

The Panthers host the Hills District Hornets at the PVRSC on Saturday night, with the women at 5:30pm and the men at 7:30pm.

From Group C & A & Invited

Meg Jefferson and Chloe Bloom in action against the Inner West Bulls. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

From Group N & Invited

COACH’S CORNER Searching for a style

“SIGNIFICANT progress only occurs in football when motor learning is combined with cognitive learning!” – Horst Wein. Why as coaches do we often insist on blunting the creativity of players in the pursuit of turning them into robots who follow a one size fits all structure? The simple answer is to suit us. The coaches. We over value the importance and impact we have on our team and the result they achieve in each game.

The modern approach to coaching revolves around the teaching of tactics and the ability to problem solve through game play. Which makes total sense when you consider that the game of Rugby League is a continuous and open environment which can be minimally impacted by coaches during play. The players should be on the field attempting to break down the opposition using their game sense. Instead teams and the creative players within them tend to follow a premeditated pattern, structure and system which does not take into account the deficiencies of the opposition. These systems are more often designed by coaches to fit their philosophy on how they best think the team can be successful through the creation of these structured systems. These systems rarely take into account the strengths and weaknesses of the players at their disposal.

The accountability for poor performances and

results is often blamed by players and coaches on “we didn’t complete our sets” or “we didn’t stick to our systems and structures”. More often than not, that is exactly the reason for the poor performances, and results in that teams know of no other way to play outside of producing their rehearsed system and structure for 75 minutes of the game, which has absolutely zero impact. In the final few minutes, when behind on the scoreboard, teams throw out the structure and think outside the square and play what is in front of them, which often produces a flood of late points. This indicates to me the players are restrained by controlling coaches intent on keeping their job via any means possible.

The traditional approach to coaching is characterised by a teacher / coach directed structure and technique based learning environment. Sadly the majority of Rugby League coaching philosophies are still based around on an outdated premise that winning starts and ends with a structure or a system. Team structures, systems and styles have existed for as long as Rugby League has been played, but in times past the structure was not so restrictive it squeezed the ability for players to be creative or to occasionally throw caution to the wind and play what was in front of them. Sadly in modern Rugby League, this is the reality we face. Players,

particularly in the crucial positions of halfback and five eighth, no longer possess the creative ability or instinct to read the game, problem solve, break down defences and make decisions in the best interest of the team on a consistent basis. Why? Because they are told if they just stick to the structure or system everything will be ok.

It is difficult to see this current trend changing with such a large focus and scrutiny placed on winning and the results a club produces in the short term. Winning is the only legitimate currency when a coach is looking for a new contract and a lack of results is often the reason a coach is shown the door.

Several experienced and respected Rugby League commentators, experts, analysts and journalists have identified the robotic nature of the game in its current form. Clubs must reclaim their own identity and style in order to gain a point of difference over their opposition. To just copy the style, structure or system of another team because it has made them successful is very short sighted and is not the role of the coach. A coach needs to first and foremost have an in depth knowledge of the players at his disposal and needs to implement a style, game plan and tactics which will best allow the team to succeed.

ON THE

MARK

WITH MARK GEYER

MID YEAR REVIEW

WITH around half of the footy season now in our rear view mirror, I thought I’d take a look back over the past few months of the NRL and give out some gongs for those that are outstanding, and for those that who aren’t. Ok lets start.

Most surprising team -

The Broncos have definitely surprised, as have the Dolphins in their inaugural season, but for mine the surprise packets of the NRL this season are the NZ Warriors. Currently sitting in 6th position on 20 points, Andrew Webster’s new look Warriors have been a ‘must watch’ this season. With Shaun Johnson playing some vintage footy, they also have the forwards to compete with any pack in the comp. Opposing teams will be hoping they don’t get a home semi once September hits.

Most disappointing team -

Of course the Dragons have been, as have the Bulldogs who promised so much, but for mine after 16 rounds it’s the Roosters who have been the most disappointing. With an abundance of rep players and internationals, Trent Robinson’s charges just haven’t been able to find their mojo this season. Sitting in 11th spot on the ladder they were incredibly lucky to get a win over the hapless Knights last weekend, they must improve big time if they want to create any kind of dent in finals action.

The buy of the year -

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow has been great for the Dolphins after leaving the Cowboys, as has Jmaine Hopgood for the Eels after leaving the foot of the mountains where he starred in the NSW cup last year. But my buy of the year

has to be Reece Walsh, who went from the Warriors to the Broncos in what was a major coup for the QLD footy club. Since arriving he has been the noticeable X factor for Kevvie Walters Broncs, establishing a great combination around the ruck with Mam and Reynolds. His 2023 form has been irresistible.

Biggest issue of the year -

Has to be the hip drop tackle. It came, it saw, it was scrutinised then kicked out of town! The frenzy that this tackle created had everyone from players, coaches, fans, and commentators scratching their collective heads as to what and where did this tackle actually originate from. Surely clubs weren’t practicing this at training sessions? What, and risk injury to its players? Not likely. I think it was just a by product of how bloody big and strong the modern day footballer has become. Players are trying their hardest to bring down opposing juggernauts anyway they can, unfortunately sometimes resulting in falling on the back of an opponent’s legs. A nasty tackle that I hope is gone for good or at least only seen inadvertently like other tackles such as the crusher, cannonball, and grapple!

2023 Grand Finalists -

As I sit here and tap away, I can’t see anything other than a Panthers v Rabbitohs grand final…. again. The Broncos and Storm will obviously be thereabouts but I think the Panthers will take down the Rabbits in the big one this year …. again!

See you at the game.

PS if you’re in the market for a car, go see my good mate Toby at Sinclair Hyundai on York Rd. Tell him I sent ya!

MG (random Westie) OAM

$8,000