Nepean News 24 May 2024

Council promotes inclusion

PENRITH City Council is shining the spotlight on the diverse abilities and achievements of individuals within the community, with a new campaign called “One Community, Many Abilities”.

The campaign, which will be featured on Council’s digital platforms and advertised throughout Penrith, aims to raise awareness about the valuable contributions people living with disability can make, when given the opportunity.

A key component of the campaign is a series of online videos featuring five Penrith residents, who each have inspiring stories of resilience, creativity, determination and empowerment to share.

Among the featured locals is Julian, who lives with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia and is a force to be reckoned with. He excels in powerchair football, creates captivating light installations for Vivid Sydney, and has established his own Empire 3D printing business.

Another profiled local is Lauren, a loving mum who is deeply involved in deaf sports and works tirelessly as a support worker, advocating for inclusivity and understanding. Her story, along with others like Madeleine, who identifies as being on the autism spectrum and having ADHD, and Jesse, a wheelchair rugby league player, highlights the diverse talents and strengths within the Penrith community.

Marley, with his infectious energy and presence, demonstrates the power of inclusivity and acceptance through his work in Kelly’s kitchen and his vibrant social media presence, enriching the community with his contributions.

Mayor Todd Carney said this campaign is an important outcome of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) and reflects Council’s commitment to championing diversity and inclusion across Penrith.

“The DIAP is all about making Penrith more accessible and inclusive, and a big part of achieving this is raising awareness of the role we all play as advocates in making our City an inclusive place for all,” Cr Carney said.

“Through this new campaign we are sharing the incredible talents, skills and stories of just a few of the individuals living with disability in Penrith, to highlight the valuable contributions they can make to our City, when given the opportunity.

“Over the next few weeks, you will see the faces of these inspiring residents on our website, on billboards, in newspapers and other places across our City and I encourage you to head to our website to discover more about them,” Cr Carney said.

Watch their inspiring stories here penrith.city/ manyabilities

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From the Editor’s Desk

BY KERRIE DAVIES

AS we celebrate National Volunteer Week I was so excited to learn that one of my favourite people, Kris Gauci has been recognised and celebrated in the Premier’s Volunteer awards.

Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith said it was exciting to watch as one of our Penrith locals was honoured at the Premier’s Volunteer Reception. The reception, hosted by Premier Chris Minns, acknowledged, and celebrated the significant contributions that volunteers in NSW make and their impact on creating a stronger community.

More than 300 invited guests across multiple volunteer organisations attended to kick off Australia’s largest celebration of volunteering. National Volunteer Week provides an opportunity to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community and encourage increased participation.

“Volunteers make an immeasurable difference to our entire state, and the NSW Government Community Service Award recognises people who have substantially contributed to improving the quality of community members lives, beyond what is expected in their usual occupation,” said Mrs McKeown.

“This year, my nomination for Penrith local Kristine Gauci was recognised with an award from the Premier for her continued sacrifice and dedication to the people of our community.

“In 2013, Kristine co-founded the not-for-profit organisation “Our Community Cares”, which raises funds each year for equipment at Nepean Health including comfortable chairs for chemo patients, lowline beds for aged, and sensory activities for people with dementia.

“Since starting the organisation Kristine, along with very few other volunteers, has successfully raised $630,000. Last year, she implemented a program for free lawn maintenance for ill and frail clients as well as re-established a scholarship for year 10 students to connect and form friendships with aged care residents in the Penrith community.

“Kristine’s work extends far beyond “Our Community Cares” as she even finds the time to chair the Penrith Community Kitchen.

“It was an honour to nominate Kristine Gauci for her outstanding efforts and dedication to the Penrith community. “As we celebrate this National Volunteer Week, I would like to thank all of the Penrith residents who volunteer their time and skills to help improve the lives of our community members, especially during recent times of need.”

Our Community Cares is a volunteer based charity which fundraises all year round to help the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) community with comfort and needs. All money raised stays within the community to finance programs for the area’s lonely, infirmed, aged and young adults, with no outlays for wages or committee payments. You can read more about the charity by visiting their website: ourcommunitycares.org.au

From all of us at Nepean News we send a huge Congratulations hug to you Kris! You are a shining example of what it means to be an outstanding member of our community. Penrith is so lucky to have you and we are excited to celebrate you and see you receive this very worthy recognition.

Health worker study subsidies

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE first 1,300 nursing graduates and students have received offers under the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy Program.

In the Penrith electorate, this includes 17 new nursing students being offered the $4,000 per year scholarship and 54 graduating nursing students who have commenced employment with NSW Health being offered the $8,000 one-off payment.

It comes as the NSW Health nursing workforce grows to a record 52,400 – up 2,100 from the same time last year.

The State Government says health worker study subsidies and rural health incentives are just part of a range of measures to rebuild the healthcare workforce, including:

• Beginning to implement safe staffing levels of nurses and midwives beginning in our emergency departments.

• Saving 1,112 temporary nurses by making them permanent.

• Abolishing the wages cap and delivering record pay increases for nurses, paramedics, and other health workers, as well as salary packaging.

“After 12 years of neglect of our healthcare system, we are fulfilling our election commitment to recruit the next generation of health care workers for the people of NSW,” said Karen McKeown OAM, Member for Penrith.

“It is great to see so many Penrith nursing graduates and students have their lives changed by the Tertiary Health Study Subsidy Program.

“Having just celebrated International Nurses Day and International Day of the Midwife, I want to acknowledge the compassion, professionalism, and round-the-clock commitment of our nurses in Nepean Hospital, and around Australia, as they care for patients in our public health system.”

NSW introduces laws to get knives off the street

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE NSW Government has introduced legislation modelled on Queensland’s ‘Jack’s Law’ which will give Police powers to “wand” or “scan” people for knives without a warrant in designated areas.

The legislation is part of a package of what the government calls “common-sense reforms’ to target possession of knives, particularly among young people, reduce knife crime and boost community safety.

Under the new legislation, a senior police officer of the rank of Assistant Commissioner or above can turn on wanding powers to be used in a designated areas including:

• Public transport station (including bus, train and tram stations) and surrounds.

• Public transport vehicles within two scheduled stops of a designated public transport station

• Shopping precincts

• Certain sporting venues

• Other public places, designated by regulation, including special events and places that are part of the nighttime economy.

This will mean that, compared to Queensland’s ‘Jack’s Law’, NSW will have more designated areas and more flexibility to capture places in which events are held, such as the Royal Easter Show and entertainment areas.

The authority will last for 12 hours, with an option to extend as required.

Police can “wand” any person in a designated area and may request that person produce a metal object, if detected. Failure to comply may result in a maximum penalty of a fine of $5,500.

Importantly, wanding powers can be turned on for areas where there have

been issues related to knife crime or knife possession offences where one of the following have occurred in the last 12 months:

• At least 1 offence committed by person armed with knife or weapon.

• At least 1 serious indictable offence involving violence.

• More than 1 offence of knife possession or prohibited weapon possession.

In addition to wanding provisions, the legislation will also make it illegal to sell knives to a child under the age of 18, with exemptions for retailers selling to young people who need a knife for their work or study as well as increasing penalties for people selling knives to young people under the age of 18.

The package of reforms will help address knife-related crime, get knives off streets and keep the community safer.

The reforms build upon responsible action taken by the NSW Government over the last year including:

• Doubling of the maximum penalties for various knife related

offences in 2023.

• Ongoing review by the NSW Sentencing Council into sentencing for firearms, knives, and other weapons offences.

• Ongoing high impact NSW Police operations such as “Operation Foil” –an ongoing, targeted operation which last ran from 11–13 April 2024. It targets knife crime and anti-social behaviour with 51 knives/weapons seized and 145 people charged with weapon-related offences. In the last year alone almost 4,000 knives were seized in public places.

“My hope is that these commonsense reforms stop people from taking a knife into the community and prevent some of the devastating outcomes of knife related violence we have seen in recent months,” Premier Chris Minns said.

“The NSW Government is committed to tackling knife crime to keep our communities safe and these reforms send a strong message that knife crime is not tolerated.”

Minister for the Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said

giving police the ability to ‘wand’ or ‘scan’ for knives in designated areas is a proactive step toward ensuring community safety.

“By detecting and deterring knife possession, we’re not just preventing potential crime, we’re also safeguarding lives,” Minister Catley said.

“The introduction of legislation inspired by Jack’s Law isn’t just about law enforcement. It’s also about instilling confidence in our community, showing that we’re actively working to keep them safe.

“These laws mark a crucial shift in our approach to combatting knife crime, especially among our youth. By introducing this legislation, we’re sending a clear message that knife crime will not be tolerated in our community.”

Attorney General Michael Daley said the Government is sending a clear message that it is a crime to carry a knife and under these new measures, you will face a greater chance of being caught if you carry one.

“I want to say to young people in particular: Do NOT take a knife with you when you leave home. The chances of being caught by police and ending up with a fine or in a court on possession charges are about to become much higher.

“It’s not worth the risk,” AG Michael Daley said.

PENRITH NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

will be holding their National Memorial Day Service on Sunday 26th May at Victoria Park St Marys at 10.30 for 11.00am start.

Retired teachers return to classrooms as part of initiative to address shortage

CLOSE to 150 former teachers are poised to return to public school classrooms this term, after accepting an offer as part of the Teachers Re-Engage initiative, aimed at arresting the teacher shortage crisis that gripped schools under the former Liberal National Government.

The progress comes after the NSW Government last year removed the public sector wage gap and gave teachers the largest pay rise in decades, whilst taking steps to reduce the burden of admin work that piled up under the former government.

Vacancies dropped by 20 per cent at the start of the 2024 school year compared with the same time last year, but there is still work to do.

Since November 2023, the NSW Department of Education has contacted more than 1,500 teachers who quit their jobs in the past

five years to ask them to consider returning.

More than 260 have expressed interest in returning to service, with 145 now linked with schools to perform casual and temporary work in more than 600 schools across the state. Around 60 per cent of the returning teachers are coming out of retirement. Both the pay increase and workload reduction have been cited as motivations for returning.

The department has simplified the re-employment process for these teachers by providing support for attaining accreditation, approval to teach, and a Working with Children Check.

Teachers re-engaged under the program will add to the department’s pool of qualified teachers who can cover gaps due to absences in schools, relieving pressure on other

teachers and principals and reducing the amount of merged and cancelled classes in NSW schools.

Other employment options are also available to the cohort, including permanent teaching positions and working as small group tutors.

“We are doing everything we can to get more teachers in classrooms and Teachers Re-engage is part of our laser focus on reversing the teacher shortage that built up under the Liberals and Nationals,” Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said.

“NSW started the new school year with a 20 per cent drop in the number of teacher vacancies, compared to the same time last year, but there is a long way to go.

“It’s wonderful to see the passion for teaching reignited among hundreds of experienced educators

who thought they had taught their last lesson – but thanks to changes being made by the Labor Government, have decided to return.

“Ensuring every class has a qualified teacher in front of it is vital to improving student outcomes, which declined under the Liberals and Nationals.”

Margaret’s story: How a mother’s struggle transformed lives

WITH almost 1 in 2 people being diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, cancer touches many lives in profound and unexpected ways.

For Margaret Buffrey, there have been many encounters with cancer that have taken her from diagnosis to dedicated volunteer.

“My mother had pancreatic cancer, my daughter had Ewing sarcoma, my husband had prostate cancer, I’ve had melanoma, and my brother has also had melanoma”, says Margaret.

With National Volunteer Week around the corner on 20-26 May, we’re recognising Margaret’s seven years of dedicated support for people affected by cancer, as a Cancer Council Information Services (CCIS) volunteer at Nepean Cancer Centre.

Confronted with a cancer diagnosis

Looking back to her 2015 melanoma diagnosis, Margaret recalls, “it was a mole that was always there.”

What was nothing more than a benign mole on the back of her left leg, had grown bigger, darker and more knobbly, within the space of 12 months.

Margaret says, “it felt much different, so I went to my GP pretty much straight away.”

Margaret’s GP referred her to a dermatologist, and by the next day, she was diagnosed with melanoma.

After initial surgery to remove the melanoma, her lymph nodes were removed, leading to lymphoedema – a complication that Margaret struggled with.

“At that time, there wasn’t really anything out there for people with lymphoedema,” Margaret remembers. “It was a real game changer when I found a newspaper ad for lymphoedema treatment that could help me.”

Despite the financial burden of managing her condition, Margaret remained positive, stating “paying for my lymphoedema treatment was okay because I was working, so I could afford it.”

“But a lot of other people aren’t as lucky”, she adds.

Discovering the power of helping others

At 19, Margaret’s daughter Lyndall was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma after she had broken a bone in her hand from a car accident – the bone had weakened due to a tumour.

“She spent a year in and out of hospitals having surgery, chemo, and radiation,” says Margaret.

Margaret remembers when Lyndall was declared cancer free at 25.

At last, Lyndal was free to have a normal life, leading a successful career in hospitality, getting married, and as Margaret puts it, “having a beautiful baby boy.”

By 2011, Lyndal was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma again, which had returned as a rare soft tissue tumour behind her heart.

“She passed away in December 2012, just a couple of months short of her 40th birthday”, says Margaret.

From her own cancer diagnosis to being the mother of a sick child, Margaret knows all too well what it’s like for those affected by cancer.

That firsthand experience is what drove Margaret to volunteering at the Children’s Hospital –supporting sick children and their parents, who were overwhelmed with the demands of caring for a sick child.

“These mothers were run off their feet,” Margaret explains. “We helped

out to read to their kids, play games with the kids, and talk to them.”

“That way, their mothers could do the normal everyday things, that you can’t do when your child is in hospital. Simple things like showering, going to the bank, doing the shopping”, Margaret adds.

Volunteering at Cancer Council NSW In 2017, Margaret began volunteering with Cancer Council NSW.

As a CCIS volunteer at the Nepean Cancer Centre, Margaret dedicates each Thursday to helping patients and their families navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

Margaret’s typical day starts at 9am, helping with self-check-in kiosks, providing booklets with information on cancer, and lending a listening ear.

“We generally try to make people feel better, and I just enjoy it”, she says.

Through her volunteer work, Margaret is making sure that those facing a cancer diagnosis have access to resources, information, and emotional support.

As Margaret continues to give back to the community and make an impact, we hope that her story inspires new generations of volunteers to carry on the same spirit of what it means to be a volunteer.

We’d like to thank Margaret as well as all of our volunteers, for their unwavering commitment that continues to touch the lives of countless people affected by cancer. Because it’s all of us against cancer.

A great response, but more bowls needed!

BY

LTo recap, Empty Bowls is an initiative to fight hunger, personalised by artists and art organisations on a community level. The money raised is donated to soup kitchens, food

banks and other organisations fighting hunger locally. A call out was made for donations of ceramic bowls for the soup. They need at least 200-300 handmade bowls that can hold between 350-500mls. They’d like to say a big THANK YOU to those who have pledged. They’re currently at 85 bowls, so please keep them coming!

To register your interest please email bluemountainsclaycollective@gmail.com or call Linda Kemp 0430 477 301 for more details.

KERRIE DAVIES

From left to right: Tania Ball Nepean Cancer Care Centre Manager, Margaret Buffrey CC Volunteer, Jacquie Guy CC Volunteer, Natalia Arnas Community Coordinator

AST edition we ran a story about how Blue Mountains Clay Collective is raising money to fight hunger locally by joining in the international project Empty Bowls.

Linda Kemp and Liza Allen

Tess Davey and Navena Zakhariev

Charlotte Whittingham

Opinion: Get the Australia we love back on track

BY FEDERAL

“THIS week marks two years since the Albanese Labor Government was elected, where the Prime Minister promised a $275 reduction in people’s power bills, cheaper mortgages, and to make families better off. With three Budgets under Labor’s belt, in Western Sydney we now have double income families lining up at food charities for the first time, and Australians across the country are doing it extremely tough.

The Albanese Labor Government ran out of excuses on its election promise to reduce household energy bills by $275, when the draft Default Market Offer (DMO) revealed residents are paying as much as $1,027 more in Western Sydney, which is a 37% increase since Labor came to power.

The $300 rebate announced in the Budget doesn’t even scratch the surface when families are paying so much more.

Last week, every credible economist was scathing of Labor’s Budget, which failed to tackle inflation and is making our economic situation worse. This cost of living crisis which is gripping so many in Western Sydney has been created by Labor’s own homegrown inflation. People are working harder than ever but their money doesn’t go far, whether at the petrol station or supermarket, and so many small businesses are sadly failing under skyrocketing costs.

While people are struggling to pay mortgages and rents, Labor is making the housing crisis worse by bringing in a record 1.67 million migrants over 5 years. How will Western Sydney cope with this when

Labor isn’t giving us the infrastructure we need now, let alone with an increased population?

The Albanese Government recently ripped out $2 billion in essential Western Sydney infrastructure funding while our region is rapidly growing and a new international airport is opening in two years. After community and media pressure, some of the funding has been returned, but extraordinarily not the full amount for Mulgoa Road, nor funding to upgrade potholed roads around Luddenham that are going to be major freight corridors in the not to distant future.

And then we have the Dunheved Road upgrade, which the Albanese Labor Government promised to fast-track. This hasn’t happened and the start of construction is now a year and a half behind schedule on this Penrith Council road.

Whether it is infrastructure, energy costs, or Australian manufacturing, our country is being hoodwinked by this Labor Government, and it is time to get the Australia we love back on track. I’ll be fighting for this every day as the local MP and Shadow Minister for Western Sydney.”

Nominations encouraged for Women in Local Government awards

NOMINATIONS are officially open for the 2024 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, celebrating the exceptional achievements and contributions of women within councils across NSW.

Tanya Davies MP, Member for Badgerys Creek, said the awards provide a platform to honour women in Local Government.

“From councillors to council staff, there are women in our community who are working tirelessly towards enhancing the lives of the people and communities they serve,” Mrs Davies stated.

Shadow Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman said in NSW, countless women play pivotal roles in local government.

“These awards are an opportunity to recognise the women who are on the ground at Council. Women who are enriching the fabric of their communities,

making them more vibrant places for everyone to live, work, and thrive,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

Established in 2008, the Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government recognise the remarkable efforts of women at the grassroots level of government, spanning both metropolitan and regional/rural councils. The award categories encompass separate accolades for metropolitan and regional/rural councils, including county councils and joint organisations.

The categories open for nomination are:

• Alternative Pathways Award: Recognising a female staff member who challenges gender stereotypes. • Champion of Change Award: Honouring a male and a female general manager or senior manager who have demonstrated outstanding support for women’s participation within their councils.

• Elected Representative Award: Acknowledging a female councillor who has advanced the position of female elected representatives.

• Employment Diversity Award: Commending a successful council program aimed at increasing female participation in senior leadership roles or at the elected representative level.

• Woman of Distinction Award: Celebrating a woman who showcases exceptional innovation, integrity, initiative, or positive influence on others.

• Young Achiever’s Award: Highlighting an outstanding female staff member (including trainees and apprentices) aged 25 and under.

Nominations for the 2024 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government close on Friday, 14 June 2024. To submit a nomination, please visit OLG.nsw.gov.au

More paramedics and call takers join NSW Ambulance

NSW Ambulance has welcomed 113 new paramedic interns and trainee emergency call takers after they were officially inducted into the service at a ceremony today.

Fifteen extended care paramedics (ECPs) were also recognised, after completing their specialist qualifications.

Minister for Health Ryan Park congratulated the 96 paramedic interns and 17 trainee emergency medical call takers, who will start in their new roles from tomorrow.

“This is the third class of NSW Ambulance interns this year and I’m proud to see them ready to serve their communities,” Mr Park said.

“Our paramedics are on the frontline of healthcare in NSW, caring for people when they are unwell and

at their most vulnerable.

“I congratulate these new paramedic interns and trainee call takers for reaching this significant milestone in their careers and also extend my appreciation to the 15 extended care paramedics, who have completed a specialist course proving their dedication to serving our community.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan welcomed the new starters and ECPs, who were honoured at a ceremony at Sydney Olympic Park, attended by family and friends.

“I know all who are graduating have worked incredibly hard throughout their training and I thank them for their commitment and warmly welcome them into NSW Ambulance,” Dr Morgan said.

“The extended care paramedics recognised today

completed the 25th ECP course conducted by NSW Ambulance, and also the first course conducted at the State Operations Centre. I’d like to extend my congratulations to these specialist paramedics who are progressing their careers and playing a vital role in keeping the people of NSW safe and healthy.”

ECPs have advanced skill sets to treat eligible patients with a range of non-emergency conditions out of hospital, helping patients avoid a trip to the emergency department, where clinically appropriate.

The paramedic interns will be posted across NSW to complete the on-road portion of their 12-month internships before taking permanent positions in metropolitan and regional areas. The trainee emergency medical call takers will all be posted to Triple Zero (000) control centres in Sydney.

MEMBER FOR LINDSAY MELISSA MCINTOSH

Melissa McIntosh MP recently met with local small businesses to discuss the impact of skyrocketing energy bills, following multiple local closures due to rising costs.

Penrith Council plants over 10,000 plants with Greening Australia and Amazon Australia

PENRITH continues to significantly increase its green canopy with an additional 10,000 plants in Kingswood and North St Marys as part of Greening Australia’s Nature in Cities tree planting program.

Penrith City Council partnered with Amazon Australia and Greening Australia to plant over 10,000 native trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers in the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) over the last two years, with the planting project coming to an end in early 2024.

Many of the seeds were supplied by Greening Australia and propagated in-house in Council’s Nursery, with numerous plants over the last 20 months growing to reach over 2m tall.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney praised the project and said that these plants will benefit the community and future generations by providing even more greencover to keep the City cool.

“Planting 10,000 plants over two years is no small feat, and I’m proud that Penrith continues to increase greencover across the City with great projects like this one,” Cr Carney said.

“Millen Street Reserve in Kingswood was one of

the reserves we planted at for this project, which used to be a completely mown reserve with minimal biodiversity. Now with 5,000 plants growing, it has created an urban ecosystem.

“We also planted at Kurrajong Road Reserve in St Marys, which used to be a mown reserve with some larger trees. With the introduction of 5,000 plants consisting of 46 different native species of tree, shrub and groundcover, this reserve’s native vegetation footprint has extended and created additional critical habitat for our native animals.

Greening Australia’s Evan Freame, who led onground delivery of the plantings and maintained them for the past 20 months, commended the project for its success.

“Being right in the middle of residential areas, there’s a lot of demand on these green spaces. We had such a productive collaboration with Council to land on planting designs that not only bring biodiversity back to these two reserves, but are also easy to maintain, look good, and consider the many uses of these spaces.

“The aim of our Nature in Cities program is to work with all kinds of partners to establish

biodiverse, climate-resilient networks of gardens, parks, schools and waterways for people and nature. These plantings at the reserves help meet that aim: as they grow, they’ll create canopy and cooler places for people, and become important ‘stepping stones’ for local wildlife to move between waterways and other areas of bushland too,” he said.

Amazon Australia Community Impact Lead Charlotte Richardson said the organisation was proud to support ongoing work by organisations like Penrith Council and Greening Australia to increase canopy cover and biodiversity in the city.

“It’s fantastic to see the impact that can be made in a relatively short amount of time. We’re proud to support planting projects like these in the communities where we live and work, helping grow more sustainable cities for future generations,” she said.

Penrith Council’s Bushcare team hosts a variety of tree planting and weed removal events throughout the year as part of their Bushcare program’s conservation efforts. Check out what’s on in your area and register your attendance at penrith.city/ events

Immediate call for blood donors as lifeblood reserves dip to critical levels

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross

Lifeblood has issued an immediate call for donors as their reserves of most blood types drop to critical levels.

Without a significant boost in people donating, Lifeblood says its supplies will soon be at their lowest level this year.

The current demand for blood is extremely high and the current level of donations is struggling to keep up with this high demand.

Whilst some stock is also held in hospitals, Lifeblood says it needs 1,200 people donating every day in the coming week to meet the needs of patients.

Blood and plasma are required to treat a number of life-threatening conditions and their use continues to grow each year. This is driving the very high demand for both blood and plasma and there are no signs of this changing.

Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone has urged both new donors and those who haven’t donated for some time to donate now.

“Right now, we need both blood and plasma donors; we have empty chairs across our network every single day,” she said.

“Almost 4,000 bags of blood are needed by hospitals every day across Australia to help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and for a range

of other medical conditions,” Ms Stone said.

Just one donation could save up to three lives.

“With one in three of us needing donated blood in our lifetime, the life you save could be that of a friend or family member, so please don’t wait, book now.”

“Fewer than 3 per cent of the population donate blood regularly, yet more than 58 per cent are eligible to donate. That means there are about 10 million more people who could donate today, but don’t,” she said.

Ms Stone said it was likely there would be ongoing appeals for blood this winter. Lifeblood wants blood donation to become a habit for many more Australians, and not just something people do when there is an urgent need.

“If you’ve been waiting for the right time to become a donor or have been thinking about coming back to donate, this is the time to act,” she said.

Ms Stone also encouraged people not to rule themselves out, as many potential donors incorrectly believe they are ineligible.

“If you’re unsure, you can jump on the Lifeblood website and take the eligibility quiz. And if you don’t know your blood type, please make an appointment, as people of all blood types are needed right now,” she said.

To book an appointment call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.

(L-R) Penrith City Council Bushland Management Coordinator Justine Vella, Greening Australia Program Specialist Evan Freame, Penrith Mayor Todd Carney, Amazon Australia Manager of Public Policy Kylie von Muenster, and Greening Australia Operations Manager Chris Macris.

Trees planted at Millen Street Reserve in Kingswood.

Finding homes for vulnerable children

MORE than 140 vulnerable children were supported across 34 safe homes across the Western Sydney Nepean Blue Mountains District following the NSW Government’s drive to increase the number of emergency foster carers across the state.

Emergency foster carers provide a safe environment for a child or sibling group at short notice and mean fewer children end up in hotels and motels.

Many emergency foster carers go on to become long term carers for children who cannot live safely with their own families.

“The Liberal National government stopped recruiting foster carers ten years ago, increasingly relying on nongovernment organisations to place children with foster families,” said Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM.

“Since then, thousands of children have been placed in high-cost emergency arrangements (HCEAs), including hotels, motels, and caravan parks because foster care placements could not be found.

“The NSW Labor Government is determined to reduce the number of children going into

these arrangements. HCEAs, first introduced under the former government, can cost upwards of $2 million a year for each child, costing taxpayers more than $38,000 a week.

“Over the past twelve months, the government has been taking urgent action to address the issue through targeted foster care recruitment campaigns. This has resulted in the

recruitment of 189 emergency foster care households, with another 145 carer households going through the eligibility process.

“Already, this has seen 674 children placed in stable, loving homes across NSW instead of HCEAs, like hotels, motels and caravan parks.

“Additionally, the NSW Labor government established an urgent

review of the foster care system following a damning report that details the first-hand experiences of the state’s most vulnerable young people in HCEAs. It is expected to report back by the end of the year.”

To learn more about becoming an emergency foster carer with DCJ email fosteringwithdcj@dcj.nsw.gov. au.

Serious DV offences: strengthening the justice system

BY KERRIE DAVIES

SERIOUS domestic violence is an ongoing problem in this country. We have been exposed to some shocking incidents in this year alone. It is hard to read about the many victims who have been senselessly murdered by those who they (at least at some stage) loved and trusted.

The NSW Government will introduce significant legal reforms that will make it more difficult for those accused of serious domestic violence offences to get bail.

The reforms include:

Reversing the presumption of bail for serious domestic violence offences, by expanding the category of “show cause” offences. This will require alleged offenders to demonstrate why they should be out in the community. This test will now apply to the following offences:

• serious domestic violence offences committed by intimate partners, including sexual assault, strangulation with intent to commit another offence and kidnapping, with a maximum penalty of 14 or more years jail; and

• coercive control, which will be a criminal offence from 1 July 2024. Requiring electronic monitoring of people charged with serious domestic violence who are on bail. This means that this cohort is either

held in remand or electronically monitored.

Expanding the categories of offences for which bail decisions can be ‘stayed’, that is the accused person remains in custody while prosecutors challenge their release in the Supreme Court. This will act as an additional safeguard to prevent the release of dangerous domestic violence offenders.

For all other domestic violence related offences, requiring bail decision-makers to consider, where relevant:

• domestic abuse risk factors, including ‘red flags’ such as behaviour that is physically abusive or violent; behaviour that is sexually abusive, coercive or violent; behaviour that is stalking; behaviour that causes death or injury to an animal; behaviour that is verbally abusive; behaviour that is intimidation.

• the views of victims and their family members, where possible, about safety concerns for all domestic violence offences.

Changes to make it easier to prosecute perpetrators who use

tracking and surveillance devices as a tactic to maintain control over their victim.

Changes to weekend bail courts across NSW, to ensure bail decisions are made by magistrates (for example, using audio visual links) with consultation on the design and rollout of the scheme.

These legislative reforms come after the NSW Government announced a $230 million package to improve the response to domestic and family violence through primary prevention, early intervention and crisis response measures.

In addition, NSW signed up with the Commonwealth Government in a share of $1 billion in new federal funding for emergency accommodation for people fleeing domestic violence, to be included in the upcoming Federal budget.

“These new reforms will make it more difficult for alleged domestic violence offenders to get bail,” Premier Chris Minns said.

“These are long overdue, targeted and will help keep women and children safer.”

Attorney General Michael Daley said the safety of victims is the paramount consideration of the justice system.

“We will continue to consult legal and sector stakeholders to strengthen the law, to better support the safety of women and children,” he said.

ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Ph 4736 2027

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Ringworm Infections

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

RINGWORM, the contradiction that instils dread in pet owners, is not a product of worms as its name suggests, but rather a fungal infection that can wreak havoc on both pets and humans alike. Scientifically termed dermatophytosis, this fungal menace presents as circular lesions on the skin, heralding discomfort and potential complications for our furry companions. Moreover, its zoonotic nature underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard both animal and human health.

Transmission of ringworm is a

multifaceted affair, with sources ranging from soil-dwelling fungi to infected individuals, including our beloved pets. Unlike many infections, ringworm boldly crosses species barriers, lurking on hair follicles and skin cells, poised to strike the unsuspecting. Vigilance is paramount; avoiding skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals or animals and steering clear of contaminated items such as bedding and towels can help stem its spread.

Diagnosing ringworm requires keen observation and veterinary knowledge. Circular patterns of hair loss, coupled with redness and scaling, serve as telltale signs of the fungal intruder on your pets. Prompt veterinary evaluation, including microscopic examinations and potentially fungal cultures, is important for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Treatment of ringworm needs a comprehensive approach. Antifungal medications, whether administered orally or topically,

form the cornerstone of therapy, working to eradicate the fungal menace. Complementary measures, such as medicated shampoos, aid in reducing fungal load and alleviating skin discomfort. Regular veterinary check-ups are recommended to monitor progress and adjust treatment regimens as needed.

Preventing ringworm’s spread is imperative, given its tendency to afflict both pets and humans. While typically benign in healthy individuals, ringworm poses a risk to people who have weakened immune systems and may have problems fighting off a ringworm infection. Practicing good hygiene, including diligent handwashing post-animal contact and routine cleaning of pet living areas, is a must to get the infection under control. Moreover, optimising environmental conditions, such as ventilation and humidity levels, can deter fungal spread.

Ringworm’s threat extends beyond mere nuisance, underscoring

the importance of awareness and proactive intervention. Educating pet owners about the signs of infection and fostering a culture of preventive care can lessen its impact.

The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital stands ready to assist, providing expert guidance and compassionate care to pets and their owners alike. Phone us on 0247362027 for assistance.

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

and twitter.

For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

CAN YOU GIVE GHOST A FOREVER HOME

If you are looking for a companion to spend time with, go on walks and at times just chill then please come and meet Ghost. Ghost is only 2.5 years old and has so much fun, love and energy to add to your family. He walks well on lead, takes his treats nicely and just look at that winning smile!

To meet Ghost please visit anytime during open hours.

Cost: $99.00 Age: 2 years and 6 months

Type: Dog Breed: Siberian Husky Sex: Male

MEMPHIS WOULD LOVE YOU TO CHOOSE HIM

Meet Memphis! Memphis is a very sweet and affectionate boy, who isn’t afraid to give kisses! This bundle of joy is always up for a play or cuddle and though we love having him, Memphis can’t wait to find a family of his own to share his love with. Whether you want a snuggle-bug or adventure buddy, Memphis is happy to join you. If you think this beautiful boy may be a good fit, please come down to the shelter with the family and any other dogs in your house to meet him. Memphis is already desexed so he can leave the Shelter with you

Cost: $49 Age: 2 Years and 2 Weeks Type: Dog Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier Sex: Male

ARENDELLE IS LOOKING FOR LOVE AND AFFECTION

Arendelle is a sweet affectionate girl who is looking for a loving family to give her a caring home. Arendelle would be best suited in a calm environment which will allow her to settle in a little easier.

Cost: $99 Age: 2 Years Type: Cat Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Female

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

Rotary announces NPAC 2023 Police Officer of the Year Awards

THE 2023 Police Officer of the Year Awards were presented on Thursday night in the Ron Mulock Room at Penrith Panthers.

Approximately 150 attendees, including serving and past Police Officers and members of the Rotary Clubs of Penrith, Penrith Valley, Nepean and St Marys were at the gala event, along with friends and relatives of the award nominees.

The Police Officer of the Year Award was won by Constable Jessica Cooper, and was presented by Local Area Commander (LAC), Superintendent Trent King.

The Police Officer of the Year Award for Vocational Excellence went to Melanie Gresham and was presented by Rotary District 9685 Governor Christine Owen.

The Police Officer of the Year Award for Leadership went to Sergeant Justine Wilson and was presented by Rotary District 9675 Governor Tonia Barnes.

There was also a presentation of a $5,000 donation to Police Legacy, presented by St Marys President Phil Martin to LAC Superintendent Trent King.

PCYC equipment upgrade

PCYC Penrith is thrilled to announce a major upgrade to their Gym + Fitness space with the addition of a 5-stack cable crossover and two extra treadmills! These new pieces of equipment will elevate your workout experience to the next level.

A special thank you from PCYC to their personal trainer, James Myers, and the fantastic team at Hitchens Storage & Removals for donating their time and effort to make this transformation possible.

Funds from every PCYC gym membership directly supports our community, fostering positive development and opportunities for local youth.

To celebrate, PCYC Penrith are offering 10 days of unlimited access to their gym for free! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, Their state-ofthe-art facilities, welcoming community, and expert trainers are here to support your fitness journey. Don’t miss out – claim your free trial today and join the gym that gives back!

BY NOEL ROWSELL

Constable Jessica Cooper, LAC Supt Trent King. Photos from the Awards Night, courtesy of John Scott / Penrith Rotary

Rotary District 9675 Governor Tonia Barnes, Sgt Justine Wilson.

Rotary District 9685 Governor Christine Owen with Melanie Gresham.

$5,000 Donation to Police Legacy - St Marys Rotary President Phil Martin, LAC Supt Trent King.

The POOTY Finalists with LAC Supt Trent King.

RDGs Tonia Barnes and Christine Owen with Penrith Mayor Todd Carney.

RSPCA recognises local standout volunteer

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THIS month, the NSW RSPCA Volunteer of the Year Awards were held at Yagoona.

The Runner Up was awarded to Michelle Dreaper from South Penrith.

For the last eight years, Michelle has been a standout volunteer and foster carer, providing invaluable support for the RSPCA’s Sydney Adoption Centre. Some of her most notable contributions include the work she does with kittens and cats diagnosed with ringworm.

“Thanks to Michelle’s incredible dedication and care, hundreds of ringworm cats have thrived and recovered in her home, instead of undergoing quarantine in a normal shelter environment,” a spokesperson for the RSPCA said.

“Finding foster carers willing to help with our animals’ recovery is notoriously difficult. That’s why Michelle’s eight-year-long expression of compassion and love for animals has been invaluable to the staff and teams at our Sydney Adoption Centre. We will never forget the impact she has had on so many of our animals’ recovery and wellbeing.”

The words of praise for Michelle’s dedication were echoed by fellow nominee Kellie Tickner, who writes the Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital column in this publication.

Kellie expressed her admiration for Michelle’s dedication and highlighted how Michelle’s efforts have made a significant impact on the lives of countless animals, particularly kittens, ensuring they have a fighting chance at a healthy and happy future.

“Michelle does some amazing work with foster kittens that are infected with ringworm. She is a lifeline for countless ringworm animals, providing them with love and care when they need it most,” Kellie said.

“The RSPCA Sydney shelter would be lost without her incredible dedication.”

Kellie was also nominated for her work with the Outreach team. “I was very humbled and met some incredible people,” Kellie said.

Michelle said “ringworm carers” were not common in the volunteer

space and that there are many stigmas and misunderstandings about ringworm.

Treating and curing ringworm wasn’t something Michelle set out to do, the unofficial title of ringworm carer was bestowed on her after it fell into her lap during her first fostering venture.

“I found treating it was pretty easy and now have a process of medicating, bathing and culturing to check the issue has been resolved,” Michelle said.

“I go pick them up, bring them home and place them in our quarantine room, then treat them as required and give them lots of TLC and extra attention.

“The RSPCA supplies the food, litter and medication.”

The quarantine room, which has been adapted from a dedicated bedroom in the South Penrith home

she shares with partner Mark, has been the foster nursery for several years.

In that time the home has been the safe place for new-born litters with mum, countless kittens, some older cats and even some dogs.

Michelle’s partner Mark is a builtin hands on helper, in fact it was Mark who was a cat person - Michelle wasn’t always a fan of them.

“I’ve somehow gone from not a lover of cats to the person whose friends list me as the Crazy Cat Lady in their phones,” Michelle laughed.

Michelle and Mark have resident cats and dogs and when the foster pets are cleared of ringworm, they socialise together without any problems.

It is very evident when talking to Michelle that she enjoys every minute of her role.

“We absolutely love it, it is the

highlight of our life,” Michelle said. “It is so rewarding and even though it can be hard to see them leave, we are definitely excited about their future which may not have been promised.

“It is great to watch them go to their new family, their forever home and belong to someone.”

Due to the cuteness overload that is constantly in residence, Michelle said they are never short of visitors whom love to pop in and play.

“Our friends love it, who wouldn’t love having a home that always has kittens! They love coming to our little zoo; our cat cafe.”

Michelle loves volunteering so much she has managed to devote her full time focus to fostering.

“It doesn’t pay as well as a full time job but it is certainly a lot more fun!” Michelle said.

Michelle (centre) has been photographed alongside Board Director, Mia Steele (left), and RPSCA NSW CEO, Steve Coleman (right).

Legends of the Nepean ALAN SYD CAMPBELL

(9/6/194719/4/2024)

BY NOEL ROWSELL

ALAN Syd Campbell passed away on 19th April and is best remembered for his 40-year RAAF career at Richmond Air Force base, his life as a teacher at TAFE and his twin passions of surfing and photography.

Born in Manly in 1947, Alan later moved with his family to Mayfield, Newcastle, during the 1950s.

After leaving school, Alan completed an apprenticeship through Tighes Hill TAFE, working for ‘Truscotts’ making metal tankers. In 1963/64, he started work at the State Dockyards and whilst at the dockyards, he formed friendships with a group of fellow apprentices, who introduced him to the art of surfing.

In 1968/69, Alan moved into the Lewis House Hostel, where he met a new friend who was interested

in photography, so surfing and photography would become his twin lifetime passions.

Daughter Katy Pastoors said “Maybe the opportunity to take photos of the beautiful bikini clad beach babes also fuelled that passion, as his boxes of photos can attest.”

Whilst working at the State Dockyards, Alan met Merve Cowling, who became a lifelong friend. Merve had joined the Civilian Air ForceSquadron 22 and Alan also joined two years after Merve, in 1968, and would serve in 22 Squadron at Richmond Airbase for 40 years. He began his career in the Service repairing planes and eventually became a trainer, retiring as a Flight Sergeant.

In 1968, Alan met Bronwyn Davidson, who was attending Newcastle Teachers College, and the couple were married in 1970. When they first married, they lived in a small flat in Iron Street, Parramatta and whilst in Parramatta, Alan

became a keen member of the local Photographic Club and won a number of competitions.

In 1975, Alan and Bronwyn moved to Emu Heights and Alan joined the Penrith Camera Club in 2007, where he enjoyed a number of successes in club competitions. He became a committee member in 2010 and also served as President in 2014 and 2015. In 1977, their son Joshua was born, and in that same year, Alan applied to teach his trade at TAFE. Their daughter Katy was born two years later in 1979.

Alan completed his Diploma of Teaching in 1986 (Technical and Adult Teaching Education) and in 1989, he completed the Bachelor

of Education (Technical and Adult Teaching Education).

Alan subsequently taught at both Mt Druitt and Miller TAFE colleges, retiring as a Senior Head Teacher.

Whilst at Mt Druitt TAFE, Alan and his students built a metal raft, providing an opportunity for the students to use their skills in a creative way. This raft was raced by teachers and students, in charity races, to raise money for the Stadium of the Disabled, which was located next door to the TAFE. These races raised $40,000 for the stadium. The student apprentices also worked on the construction of the stadium, and these work projects provided approximately $60,000 worth of unpaid work to the stadium.

After retirement, Alan continued his passion for photography, collecting cutaway pictures of aeroplanes (totalling over 4,000). He researched the history of 22 Squadron and contributed information and many photos to a book published about the history of the Squadron. He also worked as a volunteer with the junior Air Cadets at Camden and volunteered at the Aviation Museum at Bankstown, up until its demise.

Alan later joined the Nepean Men’s Shed, becoming part of a new group of wonderful friends who, along with his many other friends, were a wonderful support to him through his illness.

Syd Campbell was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Luciano

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

Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families

&

Tuesday mornings; Teams of

in

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wellbeing activity for June 2024

EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat

EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets

EVERY THURSDAY

EVERY FRIDAY

Friday 7th June

Saturday 8th June

Wednesday 26th June

Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes

Coffee n Chat - Exercise Classes

Barefoot Bowls

Monthly Walk’n’Talk and Breakfast

Merrie Widows

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

Alan

Vranich.

Alan and Bronwyn Campbell.

Family

Service Medals. Photos: Supplied by Katy Pastoors.

ILEFT OF FIELD

WAS in the Gym parking lot the other day, just sitting there playing away on Facebook, and I happened to notice very young, very fit people attempting to park and then enter the Gym.

So, as I picked the stray hair that had grown from the bottom of my chin with tweezers, I continued to watch and observe the habits of these unique creatures.

Now, I know that this has absolutely nothing to do with anything or something of interest. However, what I did notice was that these very fit people were all attempting to park like ants, closest to the front door of the gym, leaving the back end of the carpark empty. Cars were packed in like sardines up the front, even to the point of breathing in, to open the door so as not to hit another car door. (some cars even double parked).

So, my next thought was, and let me get my head around this, they are going to the gym to get exercise, yet they can’t walk 100 metres from the back of the carpark, which is actually exercise? Okay, I have got it now. I was a tad confused there for a moment. (Thumbs up emoji).

Speaking of parking, has anyone noticed that you

Are there finance options available for solar?

“I want to make the switch to Solar, but I’m reluctant to spend the money on a system at the moment.”

It’s completely understandable, especially in the current economic climate, to be cautious about the costs involved in investing in Solar. Even the most budget-friendly systems

can go to a carpark, park in a spot with absolutely nobody around you, where the chances of another car heading there are better winning the 150 million powerball, however you come out and there are 15 cars right next to you? Its like our cars send off these pheromones to other cars to come closer. They secretly call out (silently) whilst you are shopping and setting off like a skunk smell calling on other cars, and the boneheads that are driving these vehicles (in a coma) are like magnets and park right next to you. Even if there are 75 other empty spots. Nup, there they are right next to you, even to the point that you can’t even get the trolley to the side of your car, to pack the groceries in.

I am fired up now, have you ever entered a full carpark, saw the reverse lights on a car in a car spot and thought, “Oh my GOD, this cant be real, a car spot!” It is like unveiling a gold bullion, there is a car (pant pant hyperventilation with excitement) leaving that spot, wooooo hooooo. So you excitedly place your blinker on to tell every other minion to back off, it’s yours, annnnnnnnnnnnnd the person in the driver’s seat just sits there. And sits there.. and sits

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

there, with reverse lights on not moving, while other cars squeeze past you.

After 5 minutes with the blinker flicking away, you give the universal signal with your hand as if to say, are you leaving or what.. as you mouth a few other choice words (under your breath of course). And the bonehead in the driver’s seat still sits there, doing God knows what.

So you eventually give up and make another loop, and when you are 26 kms away from your original car spot find, the idiot then reverses out, totally oblivious that anyone was waiting for the spot. You frantically look over the top of other cars, watching helplessly as the car reverses out of YOUR spot, only to see a Volvo driver with a hat in the back window, drive in and salivate over the wonderous find.

I am fairly certain that aliens turn off the invasion button when they fly over Earth, saying “and they call us weird.”

So, there you have it, folks, the bonehead disease strikes again; it doesn’t discriminate, and at any time, we can all become boneheads; it chooses its victims well.

Jim’s Gems

typically require several thousand dollars be paid upon the completion of the installation. However, if you’re eager to start saving on your electricity bills sooner rather than later, there are finance options available to assist you.

At Nepean Solar Solutions, we are proud partners with leading lenders Brighte and Solaris Finance, who both offer innovative solutions to help you go Solar without any initial outlay. These finance providers alleviate the financial burden by covering the total cost upfront and allowing you to repay the balance through manageable instalments over time.

By accessing finance options for your Solar and/or battery storage system, you can enjoy the benefits of Solar energy right away, without waiting to save up the full amount. These include:

• Reducing the cost of your electricity bills

• Enhancing the value of your property

• Reducing your reliance on the grid

• Contributing to a greener environment

Choosing the right finance option can make a significant difference in your Solar journey. Brighte and Solaris Finance both offer competitive rates and flexible terms to suit your budget and needs. Whether you prefer fixed or variable rates, longer or shorter repayment periods, these lenders can provide options that align with your financial goals. What’s more, their application and approval process is quick and easy to use, ensuring a smooth transition to solar energy for your home.

At Nepean Solar Solutions, we understand that every household’s financial situation is as unique as their energy usage. That’s why, in addition to designing systems tailored specifically to your individual needs, our team is dedicated to helping you explore the financial options that best suit your financial circumstances.

We want to empower you to make informed decisions that not only benefit your wallet, but also contribute to a sustainable future.

If you have any questions or require any further information about the finance options available to you, please feel free to reach out.

We’re here and happy to help every step of the way!

With Jim Hill, Nepean Solar Solutions

Actor and radio personality Andrew Daddo to emcee Penrith’s Mayoral Charity Fundraiser

WELL-KNOWN Australian actor, author, television, and radio personality

Andrew Daddo will be hosting Penrith’s Mayoral Charity Fundraiser at St Marys Leagues Club on Friday, 21 June 2024.

As the community rallies together to show its support and raise much needed funds for the Penrith Community Kitchen, it will be a night like no other. This event will showcase spectacular local entertainment, and touching true stories that recognise the fantastic work the charity is doing to help those in our community doing it tough.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney thanked Andrew Daddo for being a part of and acknowledging the importance of the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.

“To have Andrew come along and support the Fundraiser means so much to the Penrith community. For him to get behind the Penrith Community Kitchen especially during the current cost-of-living pressures, I sincerely appreciate it,” Cr Carney said.

“I thank Andrew for wanting to be part of this special event, to raise money and awareness of this wonderful charity that helps people going through the toughest of times,” he said.

“This fundraising event will ensure that people and children get fed, have warm clothing and blankets during the

cold winter months and that students are receiving nourishing food whilst at school.”

Andrew Daddo said, “I am extremely honoured to MC this charity evening. The Penrith Community Kitchen is doing vital work for the community, and I hope we raise a lot of muchneeded money.”

The Penrith Community Kitchen provides a non-for-profit service to the

community that assists the homeless, low-income families and those who are in need. Together, as a community, we can help those who are struggling to make ends meet.

On any given day, the Kitchen provides meals for between 80 and 100 people, indicating the strong need for this service in Penrith. The existence of Penrith Community Kitchen depends entirely on donations and fundraising.

Celebrating their 30-year anniversary in July, the Kitchen is extremely grateful for the ongoing support and donations they have received over this time.

Tickets for the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser are on sale now and include a $30 donation to the Penrith Community Kitchen.

Guests will hear from Andrew Daddo, Cr Carney and the Kitchen’s Secretary, Gai Hawthorn on the night along with circus performances by PAWS Studio, a silent auction, plus a three-course meal and drinks. All funds raised on the night will be donated to the Kitchen.

Businesses, government agencies, community groups and resident are all invited to come along and support this wonderful charity.

“Let’s do our part to ensure that there is always assistance and a safe place where those in need can come, free from judgement. I’d love to see you on Friday, 21 June,” Cr Carney said.

A Galabid page is now live for monetary donations and where guests can bid on various items ahead of the silent auction on the night.

To find out more, visit penrith. city/mayoralcharity. Tickets can be purchased directly via the TryBooking page for the Penrith 2024 Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.

Soon-To-Be Penrith’s favourite Chicken Takeaway Shop

BY CONNIE UY-PIDELO-ONA

BANG’S Chicken in Penrith could be considered the pinnacle of the more than 20 years’ food and hospitality career of Mr Kyeonghwan Bang.

He has maintained a strong passion for the culinary arts and sciences, since he started as a university student who majored in this field in South Korea in his early 20s, before he came to Australia where he continued to study and patiently pursue his dream of becoming a chef.

Mr Bang’s boneless fried chicken, which he recommends as a musttry in his store’s menu, is the item customers order for takeaway. And it’s no surprise, as it always has a fresh taste to it, so juicy and tender that you would want to order again. Some even say they crave it for days after they’ve tried it for the first time!

This favourite on the menu comes with two side dishes, coleslaw and crunchy pickled radish, that all add a tangy and sweet twist of flavour to the main dish, along with six types of sauces to choose from.

Open and doing business for just over 18 months, Bang’s is the only Korean fried chicken takeaway shop along Penrith’s busiest street.

Penrith locals are saying it has an unparalleled taste, that when eaten instantly transports customers to the very heart of Seoul as they savor and experience a staple in Korean cuisine.

Bang’s excellent offerings on his takeaway menu is the result of years and years of study and having survived and lived through a wide, diverse variety of jobs, mostly related to the food business.

Mr Bang’s wife and young son are always around to help him and give him inspiration in his first solo business project. When asked what his guiding principle in life is and what advice he can give to those who want to become a chef like him, he says “Practice makes perfect”.

He also learned that networking is a very important skill in the food and hospitality industry in Australia. Other skills that he says will help are knowledge on how to save on food ingredients and equipment cost, being flexible, being ready to shift to another type of food business when the going gets tough and making customers satisfied and happy.

He considers this last one as the key priority skill to a successful food business. For instance, he gives customers a loyalty sticker card that gives free fried chicken, after ten orders, depending on the size of the orders (which comes in small, medium, large and family). Because of this offer and his super tasty chicken, he now has a

growing number of loyal customers who have become his friends and they line up in long queues at his shop mostly on Friday nights and on weekends.

The future seems to be bright for Bang’s Chicken. Plans on the horizon include opening another branch and serving snack deals for students at nearby schools. Like other food business owners, he also envisions his store to become a global chain someday.

Turning this dream into a reality would not be too difficult for Mr Bang as he already has all the ingredients that he needs if ever he will join the fierce international food franchise competition. He is already used to hard work, he has all the necessary culinary skills and he has a strong, fierce and focused mindset.

In the future, when this does happen, Penrith will be very proud to have been the birthplace of a smalltime fried chicken business that has become a global icon when it comes to selling the freshest, tastiest and juiciest fried chicken brand.

Opening hours: Tues to Sun 11 am to 9 pm Closed on Mondays Available for Catering, Phone and Online Orders www.bangschicken.com.au/

Sports stars join local businessman’s quest to turn Penrith into the state’s manufacturing epicentre

WITH visions of making Penrith a manufacturing epicentre for the state of NSW, a local businessman has given new life to a previously dormant industrial site, launching the innovation hub Manufactor.

Located within Penrith’s historic Crane Enfield Metals building, which dates back to the early 1960s, Manufactor has already attracted 12 local manufacturing businesses, and founder John Joannou wants to encourage more businesses to look at manufacturing locally.

Transforming the old Penrith Crane Enfield Metal factory into a bustling hub of innovation is the first step in John’s goal of celebrating the area’s past whilst signaling a bright future through reimagining what manufacturing in Sydney looks like going forward. By showcasing the potential of local manufacturing, Manufactor is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs, craftsmen, innovators and food manufacturers who are taking up the call to produce and sell locally. At Manufactor, products are not just crafted but showcased, savoured, and sold directly to the local community.

Headed up by John, diversified property group Aon Ari Property is

leading the ongoing redevelopment of the facility, having already invested $100 million in its transformation. And the results are already rippling across Western Sydney, with 12 tenants currently and multiple big local names jumping on board to be part of the local industrial revolution.

Panthers star Nathan Cleary is one of the sports stars who has seen the opportunity that the Manufactor site presents, taking on a new line of work as part owner of the Drink West brewery operational on site. Joining him in the venture are UFC fighters

Tai “Bam Bam” Tuivasa and Tyson Pedro who have also made Drink West at Manufactor their second professional home, signaling the

strong ties to the local area and the bright future ahead for the site.

In addition to the Drink West on site brewery, Manufactor is shaping up to be a food and drink destination hub with other local innovators in the space also taking up residency at the site. Brisket Boys offer an authentic taste of American barbecue whilst Flappy’s Fried Chicken’s on-site operations produce Louisiana-style fried chicken that’s so good it’s gone viral. Burger Point cook up Americanstyle burgers with a Filipino twist, Harvest B create plant-based proteins, Montecatini Smallgoods produce small goods made using true Italian curing methods, and soon to open the doors is Ribs and Roast, the sous vide

specialists in the region.

Beyond the F&B available on site, Manufactor is also establishing itself as a location to find premium innovators and makers, such as We Love Parquet, a company specialising in the supplying and installation of premium solid wood flooring.

With lofty goals to achieve, Manufactor, its founder and its tenants, are part of a local movement that is already well on its way to bringing innovation and manufacturing into the heart of Sydney’s West to the betterment of the entire state.

Manufactor is located at 21152131 Castlereagh Road, Penrith, NSW 2750. To learn more visit https://manufactor.com.au/

Diana Baker Smith: This Place Where They Dwell

BY KERRIE DAVIES

PENRITH

Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest, is delighted to launch a major new commission, inspired by the life and legacy of acclaimed 20th Century Modernist artist Margo Lewers (1908 – 1978). Sydney artist Diana Baker Smith works at the intersection of performance and moving image, her artistic practice examining the politics of art history through methods of archival research, collaboration, embodiment, and fiction. In her new commission,

This Place Where They Dwell, she engages with the personality enshrined within the historied buildings and heritage gardens of Penrith Regional Gallery, re-animating the spirit of one of the most important Australian artists of the post-war period, who once called the gallery site home.

A four-channel video installation, presented in the Gallery’s historic Lewers House, This Place Where They Dwell invites audiences to experience the once private and intimate space where Lewers lived, made art, raised children, mourned her husband, and died; before her

home was bequeathed as a public arts institution, and the foundational heart of the Penrith Regional gallery site.

I asked Diana what drew her to Margo Lewers as a subject?

“It really started with a conversation with curator Nina Stromqvist. She invited me to the property and to have a look at the house and the archive of Margo Lewers,” Diana said.

“I spent a lot of time in the archives and the house and thinking about her living in that house for many decades by herself; and the history of this space in Emu Plains and her life there.

“Thinking about this strange thing

when artists’ houses become galleries. How it moves from being a private intimate domestic space and then becomes a civic space and a gallery space that is very public. I was interested in that movement, what it means and how we then respond to that space.”

Informed by archival correspondence, and conversations with renowned Australian dancer and choreographer, Cheryl Stock – who performed in a dance work responding to Lewers’ final installation in 1976 – Baker Smith’s striking moving image work pays homage to Lewers’

boldly experimental spirit, through performance, dance, sound and film.

Diana said that she hopes the commission will remind people of their own experiences of living in houses and the memories that are kept in houses when we leave them as a form of archives.

“I hope that visitors will have quite a personal experience, thinking about their own experience with houses and memories,” Diana said.

Diana Baker Smith, This Place Where They Dwell: Penrith Regional Gallery, until Wednesday August 14.

OUT N ABOUT

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

This year’s Winter Appeal is now up and running!

Penrith CBD Corp are reaching out to ask for your generous donations of jackets, blankets, beanies, socks, and gloves.

Donations can be left at the following drop-off points:

• Karen McKeown’s Office, 510 High St

• Penrith Council 601 High St

• Penrith RSL 8 Tindale St

*All donations big or small are greatly appreciated.

https://donorbox.org/penrithcommunity-kitchen-donations

Midnight Drifters LIVE at Penrith RSL this Saturday from 2pm! For more info visit: https://fb.me/e/3jefp3oHF

The St Marys Salvos Community Connect hub is officially open!

“Last week I had the pleasure of joining Belinda Donovan, National Projects Manager of Employment Plus and Salvation Army Major Paul Moulds, Team Leader of Greater West, to officially open the hub,” said Londonderry MP Prue Car.

An extra special breakfast was enjoyed by all at St Marys Outpost (the train) for all our defence Mums and Grandmas. A fabulous raffle prize was donated by Heavenly Celebration Funerals (thank you lovely ladies) and won by Ron, we are sure that his lovely wife will enjoy the goodies in it.

“This initiative provides a wide range of essential services to the community, including Employment Plus, financial counselling, literacy programs and various support services.

“Huge congratulations to Belinda, Paul, and the entire team at Greater West Salvation Army for their outstanding efforts in making this project a reality. Thank you so much for the incredible, life-saving work you do.”

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Young Woman Competition. Do you have a passion for the local community? We would love to hear from you!

IA Gruesome Murder

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

N December 1899, two young men named William Chapman and Robert Smeaton who were employed at Martin Brell’s tannery in St Marys went for a trip to the Mountains for the purpose of gathering flowers and ferns where they previously visited the same gully with good success as far as ferns and flowers were concerned. They drove from St Marys in a sulky and after making their horse secure they separated, each going in different directions down the gully. At about half past four William noticed a vile smell and saw the remains of a campfire on the main watercourse near the bottom of the gully and he went to examine it. He soon found the remains of a camp and the body of a dead man in a crouching posture between a ledge of rock and a fallen tree. Satisfied it was the body of a man he returned to the top of the gully cooeing for Robert and told him what he found. They hurried off to Penrith to inform Sergeant Thorndike. As it was getting dark about this time the Sergeant arranged to make a start the following morning. Shortly before nine o’clock they followed William and Robert that consisted of the Coroner Mr John King Lethbridge, (J.P.), Dr Dundas, Mr Duncan McDonald, Sergeant Thorndike, Constable Brown and three members of the press along with Mr William Fragar and Mr John Price following on with a coffin. Arriving at the top of the gully the horses were taken out of the vehicles and made secure and the descent of the gulley commenced. This proved to be rather more than expected as the descent and ascent would be somewhat difficult. Soon they arrived at the spot where on a flat ledge of rock underneath another ledge they found three newspapers, one of 22nd, 27th and 29th October 1899 and a newspaper contents bill dated October 30th. Just near there they found a envelope bearing a North Sydney stamp of November 1st 1899 and addressed to G Goodfellow, North Sydney S F Company, Circular Quay and lying near it was a pocket plan of Heidelberg Heights, North Shore highlands. On the ledge was an open razor with what appeared to be dots of blood with the rust. A small sugar bag lay on the outside with marks of blood and the bag contained a loaf of bread (rotten), a cylinder oil feeder, a razor case, a parcel of butter, an old felt hat, two old table knifes, pieces of slate, a broken mirror, decayed food and one pair of sheep shears, etc. There was also a billy can, a black-briar pipe, shoulder straps, an old coat, a pair of trousers, a bush rug and part of a tent with several other things. Below the ledge formed by the flat rock and between another ledge and a fallen tree the body could be seen in a crouching or sitting position with the head fallen over onto the left knee. It was dressed in a pair of striped moleskin trousers, striped braces and blucher boots with hob nails, a flannelette shirt, tweed vest, a faded worsted sack coat and a soft felt hat. Preparations were made to examine the body thoroughly by Dr Dundas with disinfectants and Constable Brown and William Fragar went to assist the doctor. On lifting the coat the left arm was in the sleeve and the arm came away with the coat and the head dropped off with the lower jaw separating from the upper. There was also some thick brown hair on the back of the skull, but as nearly all the flesh had gone there was no hope of tracing the features. There was no marks of violence on the skull or any part of the body. The lower jaw had eight irregular sound teeth in front but no back ones, the upper jaw had five sound teeth in front and four sound teeth in the back and

one decayed. Dr Dundas said from what he could see he should think the age of the deceased would be between 40 and 60 and he would be about 6ft 8in high. On searching the body there was no papers that could identify him and there was only 2s (shillings) in money. The remains were then put into the coffin and taken to the top and onto Emu Plains General Cemetery where it was buried. At three o’clock the same day a magisterial enquiry was held at the Penrith Court House before the District Coroner Mr J K Lethbridge, J.P., and the following evidence was taken: - Sergeant Thorndike reported “that at 6 p.m. yesterday evening William Chapman of St Marys reported that while in a gully beyond Wasco’s on the Main Western Road he had discovered the dead body and we visited the place and saw the remains of a man in a sitting position in a crevice of a rock. Death must have taken place some time ago”. William Chapman said “that he was a tanner and resided at St Marys and corroborated the Sergeant’s statement. Robert Smeaton had been in his company but was not present when he found the body, but he was down the same gully three weeks ago and he did not see anything then. The remains may have been there then but he could not say”. Dr Dundas said “that this morning he was asked by Sergeant Thorndike to go with him and examine the body of a man found dead near Wascoe and he accompanied the coroner and Sergeant Thorndike and they went to a place pointed out by the last witness (Chapman). He saw the remains of a man in a sitting posture on a rock with his body bent forward in a very advanced stage of decomposition and on making a postmortem examination he found there were no marks of violence. He also saw an open razor about three yards from the body but could not tell whether there were blood marks without a microscopic examination. From the position of the body and probably blood stains on the trousers he should suppose that deceased committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor but he was not unable to state cause of death definitely”. The coroner’s finding was as follows: - From the evidence, he found that the said deceased (name unknown) was found dead near Wascoe on the Great Western Road on the 26th of November. 1899 without any marks of violence appearing on the body, but how or by what means he came by his death there is not sufficient evidence to enable me to say Source - Nepean Times -Saturday 2 December 1899.

 Photo of the workers at Brell’s Tannery courtesy of the late Margaret Player.

This week in pictures

Ultra-Trail Australia by UTMB (UTA) welcomed thousands of runners last weekend. Pictured here are Jim Hill from

crossing the finish line.

This week a NSW police officer was injured in what Premier Chris Minns labelled “a vicious, cowardly attack.”

“I’m pleased to report that following treatment overnight, Constable Elvis Poa has been discharged from St Vincent’s Hospital,” the Premier said.

“Our police put their lives on the line every time they put on the uniform. We owe them a great debt of gratitude.

“Constable Poa, thank you for your service, and get well soon.”

Nepean Solar and daughter Meaghan

Back from Canberra Budget Week, the first stop for Melissa McIntosh MP was the factory floor of local Aussie manufacturers, with Deputy leader and Shadow Industry Minister Sussan Ley MP.

Glen Liddiard with the indigenous round jersey he helped design.

Mayor Todd Carney and Penrith MP Karen McKeown spoke at the breakfast meeting at Bluebet Stadium.

The Master Pennant tees off for 2024

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2024 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition teed off on Sunday 19th May, with 9 local clubs in action.

There were 5 home games played in the first round, with Stonecutters Ridge winning 5-3 over Kogarah, Springwood winning 5.5-2.5 over Muirfield, Glenmore Heritage Valley falling 5-3 to Penrith, Leonay winning 6.5-1.5 over Wallacia and Richmond winning 7-1 over Kareela.

Dunheved were away to Liverpool

and won 5-3, whilst Twin Creeks were away to Bayview and drew 4-4.

This Sunday’s home games include Stonecutters hosting Cabramatta, Twin Creeks host Lakeside Camden, Penrith host Glenmore and Wallacia host Leonay.

Dunheved is away to Mona Vale, Springwood is away to Muirfield and Richmond is away to Kareela.

Locals golfers chasing Mid Amateur Title

THE Srixon NSW Mid-Amateur Golf Championship (which includes the Australian Mid-Amateur Championship) will be held at both Wollongong GC and The Links, Shell Cove GC over 26-28th May.

The Championship is open to amateurs who are 30 years of age and over, as at the first day of play, with a Golf Australia (GA) handicap of 12.4 and under for men, or 20.4 for women.

The event is stroke play, over three rounds of 18-holes, with a random draw for the first two days, then a seeded draw for the final round.

18 local golfers are among the 220 players who have entered for the event, including Dale Hughes, Cain Fitzsimmons, Dean Neill, Jared Wild, Lloyd Roger, Matthew Munce and Stephen Andrews from Penrith GC; Mark Cadle, Suzanne Fairhurst, Wesley

and Jacob Carpenter from

Ridge GC; Yugo Kawamura, Junwei Fan and Jeremy White from Twin Creeks G&CC; Dillyn Burazin, Wayne Purcell and David Moore from Dunheved GC; Adam Brennen from Leonay GC; Daniel Ayre from Richmond GC; and David Bishop from Glenmore Heritage Valley GC. Leonay’s Brett Davies is a reserve.

Clarke breaks through for Pro-Am Series victory

BY NOEL ROWSELL

DUNHEVED GC professional and Big Swing Golf Penrith Touring Professional / Assistant Manager Josh Clarke has broken through for his first adidas PGA Pro-Am Series victory, shooting a second-round 6-under par 65 to claim the Cowra Lamb Pro-Am by a single shot from overnight leader James Conran.

Coming off two top-three pro-am finishes in February, and regaining his Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia card at Qualifying School in April, Clarke posted a 36-hole total of 9-under-par for his first Pro-Am Series victory,

Clarke rode a hot putter across the two days, collecting 13 birdies, with

Supplied by Paul Munnings / PGA of Australia

six of those on day one when he also mixed in three bogeys.

In his 6-under par 65 on Sunday,

which matched John Lyras for low round of the day, Clarke rolled in another seven birdies, with his sole

bogey coming on the 383m par-4 ninth, which he also bogeyed in round one.

“I putted pretty well on both days,” Clarke said. “I didn’t hit it the greatest on day one but much better on day two, and still just holed heaps of putts, whether it was pars or birdies and even a couple of bogey putts. I just putted really good.”

With the Asian Tour Qualifying School as his next major target, Clarke said he is seeing the results of plenty of time on the practice fairway with coach Blake Dowd at Castle Hill.

“I’ve been continuing to work hard with my coach Blake, who is now at Castle Hill. Working on the same type of swing stuff, still trying to hit fades, just control the flight a little bit better.”

A family affair at Nepean Hockey Association

BY NOEL ROWSELL

NEPEAN Hockey Association

Publicity Officer Jan Harrison reports there was a sense of occasion at the WSU hockey fields last Saturday, with three generations of one family all playing together in the Nepean Hockey Association (NHA) Men’s competition.

14-year-old Brock Danby took the field with his uncle Ryan Knowles and grandfather Ken Knowles, whilst uncle Kieran Knowles was on the sidelines.

There is a rich seam of hockey in the Knowles genes, with Ken a State Masters representative and Ryan and Kieran both NSW head coaches.

Brock’s mother Chantal is also a member of the Australian Women’s Masters team,

which will play in NZ in October, and grandmother Noelene is a past 1st Division player for Panthers.

Brock and his brother Chase are both members of the Nepean Under 14 Boys representative team, which competed at the 2024 NSW Boys Field Championships in Taree over 10-12th May, finishing in 12th spot in Division 2.

Their sister Tyla was a member of the Nepean U14 Girls representative team, along with cousin Sienna Knowles, which competed in the 2024 NSW Girls Field Championships in Wagga Wagga over 1719th May, finishing in 8th spot in Division 2.

“The NHA is currently looking to boost its junior ranks and welcomes more ‘family’ involvement, such as with the Knowles and Danby families,” said Ms Harrison.

Cochran

Stonecutters

Duane Orth (Penrith) and Andrew Robb (Glenmore) in action on Sunday.

Photos by Noel Rowsell

Ken, Brock, Kieran, Ryan. Photo supplied by Jan Harrison.

Penrith City Council recognises WSAS Athletes

BY NOEL ROWSELL

ALARGE contingent of Western

Sydney Academy of Sport’s (WSAS) talented young athletes attended a reception at the Penrith Civic Centre on Friday 17 May, hosted by Mayor Todd Carney and provided by the Penrith City Council, to recognise the participation of 58 local athletes within the Academy’s pre-elite athlete development programs.

This annual event also recognises the long term partnership between the Penrith City Council and the Western Sydney Academy.

The Academy chalks up 20 years of successful operation in June and is grateful for the partnership support from Penrith City Council over that entire period. Over 790 talented young athletes have been provided with program scholarships during that period of time.

During the ceremony, held Mayor Carney presented each athlete with a Certificate of Achievement. These athletes represent a diverse array of

sports offered by WSAS, including volleyball, softball, netball, BMX racing, golf, triathlon and individual Future Stars, and reflect the depth of sporting talent within the Penrith LGA.

WSAS CEO Martin Bullock stated “We are immensely proud to have

awarded a total of 3,400 scholarships to talented young athletes across the region during our 20 years of operation. Notably, 790 (23%) of these athletes are local Penrith athletes – which is an outstanding representation.”

Mayor Carney emphasised that the accomplishments of these talented

athletes underscore the Council’s unwavering commitment to sports within the LGA. He further highlighted the numerous social and personal character benefits that participation in sports pathway programs brings to Penrith City Council’s aspiring young athletes.

Panthers share spoils with Mustangs

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Penrith Panthers senior women’s and men’s teams have split their road trip to Maitland on the weekend, in Round 7 of the 2024 NBL1 East Basketball competition.

The Penrith women played their most inspiring game of the season, overcoming the loss of starters Chloe Williams, Tahlia Tupaea and Mia Heide in the final quarter to defy the odds and edge out the Mustangs 69-68 in a gripping finish.

The Panthers led 18-10 at the first break and 44-29 at half time, before the home team rallied to close out the third term tied at 52-52.

With the three key members of the Panthers starting five fouling out of the game in the final quarter, veteran Rhiannon Pope rose to the occasion with her team under pressure, scoring regularly in the dying minutes to allow the Panthers to avoid what would have been a heart-breaking loss.

Mia Heide led the Panthers with 20 points, Tahlia Tupaea 15 and Tatiana Beaumont 14.

Pope used her limited court time to great effect, scoring 7 points and 4 boards in just 8 minutes of play.

The Penrith men were behind from the outset against Maitland, trailing 34-21 at the first break, 53-37 at half time and 79-52 at the final break in play.

Penrith saved their best for the final quarter but it wasn’t enough to stop the Mustangs surging home to a comfortable 110-75 win.

Jaedyn Fetui-Fa’amoe led the Panthers with 17 points, ahead of Brodie Schwarzer 12 and Caleb Fetui-Fa’amoe 12.

The Panthers are on the road again this weekend, headed south to Albury for Round 8, and facing the Albury-Wodonga Bandits on Saturday night at the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre – women 5.30pm, men 7.30pm

The Penrith women will understandably be very wary of the Bandits on their home court, with their superstar centre Lauren Jackson dropping a 50 points / 19 boards effort against the Canberra Nationals in Round 7, taking her outstanding season averages to 35 points / 16 boards / 2 assists / 2 blocks / 1 steal per game.

The new recruit to rule the Boards

BY NOEL

THE Penrith Basketball Association’s latest recruit to the NBL1 East Men’s squad, Jack McWilliams, is extremely wellcredentialed and will ideally be a key member of the team through the remainder of the season.

Jack began his basketball career in the junior representative ranks with the Macarthur Heat, before moving to the Camden Valley Wildfire, where he played double-under age as an 18 year old in the Wildfire Youth League Men’s team (21 years & Under).

His schooling was at Sackville Street PS, Macquarie Fields HS, then at The King’s School, Parramatta.

Recruited to the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence (BA COE), Jack spent two years in the program before winning a scholarship to Oklahoma City University for the 2021-22 season.

He started in all 30 of his games as a Freshman, finishing the season with 165 points, 132 rebounds, 25 blocked shots, 5 assists and 4 steals. During that season, OCU reached the semi-finals of the Conference Tournament.

Jack continued to play a leading role the following season with OCU as a Sophomore, again starting in all 31 games during the season and finishing with 173 points, 136 rebounds, 26 blocked shots, 6 assists and 4 steals.

OCU head coach Mark Berokoff said “Jack has been very good for us the last two years while he’s learning the American game. We have been trying to figure out how to use him with his size so there have been times where he has struggled to get the ball, since we are so guarded wing heavy. But he has had some really good games in the last two years and is a force in the middle for people to have to deal with. He continues to get better every day and gain strength in the weight room and with our strength coach, I’m expecting a huge year from him coming up for his junior season.”

Jack is majoring in Computer Science at OCU and also has an excellent tertiary background, winning numerous awards at Lake Ginninderra HS, including the Vice Chancellor’s Award, the Information Technology Award, the Mathematics Association Award, the Physics Achievement Award honouree and the Elite Sport Academic Award.

Rhiannon Pope in action against the Falcons this year. File photo by Noel Rowsell

ROWSELL

Jack McWilliams in action for the OCU Stars Photos courtesy of Hugh Scott / Oklahoma City University

PANTHERS GETTING TO KNOW YOUR

Getting to know...

SONI LUKE

1. What age did you start playing footy? 6

2. Favourite Song? Goosebumps

3. Apart from Bluebet Stadium what is your favourite other ground to play at? The Kingsway St Marys

4. Favourite Movie? American Gangster

5. If not footy what would you be doing? I’d be on the PGA Tour

6. Favourite TV Series? The Office

7. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? Skepta, 50 Cent, Travis Scott

8. Favourite Video Game? Red Dead Redemption

9. Favourite other Sport and Athlete? Golf and Tiger Woods

10. What is your death row meal? Kanzo Sushi, Wagyu steak, finished off with Cheesecake

Date of Birth: 25 February 1996

Birthplace: Penrith, NSW Age: 28

Nickname: Lil Toko

Height: 183 cm

Weight: 85 kg

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 24 April 2022 Opposition: Canberra Raiders Round: 7

Previous Club:Junior Club: St Marys

WITH MARK GEYER

ON THE PENRITH

MARK

WITH MARK GEYER

MAGIC ROUND WAS JUST THAT!

AS we celebrate (well some clubs will) the 5th version of Magic Round in Brisvegas I think those who made the trek up North will again endorse the festival of footy they witnessed.

From the opening clash last Thursday night at Suncorp between the NSW & QLD women’s teams, to the very last game on Sunday night between the Tigers and Dolphins there was action aplenty!

Lets take a look back on what made each game Magic in Magic Round.

Game 1. Raiders 24 v Bulldogs 20

What a way to kick-off 8 games of action.

The Raiders somehow etched out a win against the odds whilst also celebrating their last Grand Final win of 1994, with a reunion of that team from back then. Write the name Ethan Strange down. The 19 year old Raider WILL play origin, it’s not a matter of if, it’s simply a matter of when. The kid can play.

Game 2. Manly 12 v Broncos 13

In a game that ebbed and flowed, the Broncos looked way too sharp early. The Sea-Eagles owned the 2nd half to level the scores at 12-all. But with 3 minutes to go on the clock the Broncos stand-in half Jock Madden stepped up to the plate to nail a field goal and sink the Eagles 13 points to 12.

Game 3. Titans 24 v Knights 28

Unfortunately a late game bunker referral cost Des Hasler and his Titans any chance of a win or at least a golden point finish. The game itself was exciting and end to end, with the Knights, who have now won their past 4 games, without their marquee man Kayln Ponga, now sitting in the top 8.

4. Sharks 38 v Roosters 30

What was billed pre Magic Round as the game of the weekend it sure didn’t disappoint. Nicho Hynes in my opinion, cemented the number 7 NSW jersey with yet another masterful performance. He was backed up by Will Kennedy and another who is origin-bound Cam McInnes. The Roosters were good early but the Sharks too rampant, now winning 7 straight!

Game 5. Souths 22 v Cowboys 28

In a game that saw both teams incredibly desperate, the Cowboys were just that bit more. The Rabbitohs have astonishingly now lost 6 straight games and sit all alone on the bottom of the table on 4 points only having won one game this season. The Cowboys were still clunky but hey, a win’s a win.

The biggest upset of Magic Round came on Sunday when the ‘Wahs” overcame the premiers in a game that saw Penrith’s skipper Isaah Yeo sin-binned for the first time in 9 seasons. Without Johnson, RTS, and Tohu, the Warriors were major underdogs but showed real grit to overcome the much more fancied Panthers. Jarome Luai showed the NSW number 6 jersey should stay on his back.

Game 7. Storm 48 v Eels 16

In the biggest blow out of the Magic Round the Melbourne Storm put on a clinic against the Eels who now sit in 14th spot. For the Storm Harry Grant, Eli Kotoa, and their outside backs were great. The big concern though was star number 6 Cam Munster going down right on halftime with a

severe groin injury. Bad news for both Melbourne and QLD.

Game 8. Tigers 12 v Dolphins 24

The Dolphins were too fast and skilful for the Tigers who have lost their last 7 games. The Dolphins welcomed back the ‘Hammer” Hamiso-Tabuai- Fidow and he didn’t miss a beat with a man of the match performance. The Dolphins now consolidate 4th position on the premiership ladder.

Magic Round is done and dusted for yet another year and next year will be just as spectacular!

See you at the game…

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.

MG (random Westie) OAM

Draws from 7pm every Thursday

Game

Game 6. Warriors 22 v Panthers 20