Nepeannews 25may2017

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Thursday, 25 May 2017

ISSUE 201

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Gallery glows!

Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest has won a prestigious MAGNA (Museums and Galleries National Award) at the Museums Australia National Conference.

Centre: Dr Lee- Anne Halls with Katie and Sonya accepting the award. Read more on page 31.

localnews Services Worship and Communion Sunday 9:30am Wednesday Fellowship Wednesday 7:30pm Dare Youth Saturday 6:30pm Healing / Revival First Friday of Month 7:30pm

Contact: (02) 9673 1009

www.newhorizonschurch.org.au

Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Nasho’s Military Parade

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Penrith National Servicemen

Penrith National Servicemen’s Association Inc held its Annual Military Parade at Queen Street St Marys to Victoria Park on Sunday May 14.

Major General Paul Erving took the salute supported by Mr John Taylor JP, President of Penrith City National Servicemen’s Association Inc. Cadets from Penrith including all three services: Navy Army and Air force, were also included in the march.

“The March was held in St Marys due to the roads not being suitable for us to hold our March in Penrith,” said Maureen Gildart, Publicity Officer.

“A special thanks must go to St Marys Police for their assistance and all who made this March possible.

“Our meetings are held every 3rd Sunday of the month at Penrith RSL Club at 10.30am and we welcome new members.”

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

 Mr John Taylor President & Secretary, Penrith ANSA Inc

363 High St, Penrith

Ph: 47 321 767 47 323 786

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by Kerrie Davies I AM often told by friends and family that I am the most easy going person around.

And while I agree that I do tend to have an ability to not sweat the small stuff, just like anyone else I have my pet hates, frustrations and fears that get the nostrils flaring.

One of those things is the pathetically light sentencing of criminals in this country. Our justice system has become beyond a joke; it has got so bad now that many people don’t even expect a criminal to be punished for their crime anymore. How did we ever get this bad?

And what is even scarier, worse than criminals - absolute monsters seem to get locked up for a very short amount of time, then up for release, much to the community’s horror. There seems to be more focus on their ability to reform than there is on the actual mayhem and destruction they caused when we allowed them to live among us.

Just look at some of the cases we’ve had close to home.

Hands up those who think little toddler Bobby Webber’s abuser should be out in less than 20 years? That the killer of decorated policeman Bryson Anderson deserves to breathe the same air as us within 15 years? That a man who in 1989, raped, murdered and dumped the body of a four year old child in the Nepean River could possibly have rehabilitated and be ready for parol soon?

None of you?

I didn’t think so.

But the cries of frustrated people like me calling for harsher punishments, and believe me, the police want this as much as we do, are falling on deaf ears.

Sentencing seems to be fluffed over as soon as there are claims of mental illness, addictions and other personality disorders. And while I don’t doubt these things are certainly community problems that deserve attention, they can’t become excuses for behaviour that affects the safety of others.

For goodness sake harden up, court system!

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Helping families manage work/life balance Local families are being encouraged to consider formalised childcare, as research shows getting the right foundation is vital for a child’s development.

Studies into child development show that children who participate in a quality early childhood education program experience improved social, cognitive and emotional development.

Penrith Council owns and operates 26 childcare facilities across the region, catering for children aged 0-12, across childcare, long day care,  Get the best care and education for your child preschool, out of school hours and occasional care services. national education standards.

Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain encouraged “And our centres are not-for-profit, which parents to look to formalised, quality childcare means all our focus and energy goes into services to help their child get the best start to providing the absolute best care and education for their education for life. the children in our community,” he said.

“The right care and education early on boosts Council are also able to keep our prices development, social and emotional maturity, affordable for families, and most of our centres and self-esteem and confidence, so the benefits have an all-inclusive fee, meaning there are are significant and far reaching for the next no additional or hidden costs with all nappies, generation,” Cr Thain said. blankets and food provided at no extra cost.

“Council runs some of the best centres in Find out more at penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ the region. Every one of our centres has highly childcare or call 4732 7844 to secure your spot trained and qualified staff that meet or exceed the now.

Growth looks different for every business.

Together, let’s turn your vision into a sustainable future.

Through our new advisory practice, KPMG Penrith, our professionals can share their deep industry experience to help you see opportunities and set foundations for success.

To learn more contact: Peter Tracey Partner, KPMG Enterprise +61 2 9455 9144 petertracey@kpmg.com.au

KPMG.com/au/enterprise

© 2017 KPMG, an Australian partnership. All rights reserved. May 2017 N15476ENT

9834 1044 NEPEAN DISTRICT

Stuart Ayres

MP

Member for Penrith

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

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Rally against Islamic School will still go ahead

By Kerrie Davies

Following their meeting on Monday night, Penrith Council issued a statement regarding the development application for an Islamic School on Henry Street Penrith.

“Last night (Monday night) Penrith Councillors received an update on Development Application DA17/0141 for fitout and use of existing buildings for an independent primary and secondary school at 57 Henry St, Penrith.

“They were informed that extensive public consultation had been undertaken, a large number of submissions received and assessment had established that the DA has not responded to significant site constraints of which the applicants had been advised.

“The Development Application may now be determined under Delegated Authority following the completion of the public exhibition period on May 31 2017,” the statement said.

However a planned rally on the weekend against the application will still go ahead, according to President of Party for Freedom, Nick Folkes.

“We are not going away that easily,” Mr Folkes said, “We have a right to be heard just like any other voice, and we intend to be heard.”

Mr Folkes said that he didn’t feel as though there was any guarantee that the school would not go ahead, and so the rally would continue on Sunday as planned.

“The people of Penrith and Sydney do not want an Islamic school built in the heart of Penrith,” he

said. “We’ll be there to voice our objection, because if this site doesn’t suit, who is to say there won’t be another one? This is far from over.”

Mr Folkes said the rally will be held on Sunday May 28 at 1pm in the park on the corner of Lawson St and North St Penrith, with police permission.

“We will have speakers there including John Bolton, Pastor Keith Piper, Jim Sternhell and Matt Lowe.

“The rally is to give an opportunity to raise awareness and educate the public on the impacts of bad government policy,” he said.

The applicant of the Henry Street DA, Irfan College, currently has a campus in Guildford, and their mission statement on their website reads: “Irfan College fosters an environment where each

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student can explore his or her individual potential for academic excellence and personal achievement, while incorporating the tenets of Islam into their every day learning experiences.”

However, Mr Folkes said that he didn’t think there was a need for an Islamic school in the Penrith region, and said that the area was one of the “last bastions of Australia as we know it.”

“Time is running out for the good people of Penrith. The people of Penrith were betrayed before when Labor, Liberal and Greens Councillors all colluded together in approving two Kemps Creeks mosques in 2014,” he said.

“We hope to see you, your family and friends at this important rally. Please spread the word.

“Bums off seats, feet on streets,” he said.

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Getting to know....

Marlene Shipley CEO St Marys Band Club with Conner Lowe

1. What was your first paid job?

My first paid job was working for Avery Scales – Villawood in administration 2. What is your guilty pleasure?

This is a hard question I have more than one – Having a glass of red wine and eating chocolate, the two go really well together.

3. What is your biggest fear/phobia and why?

My biggest fear would have to be driving somewhere that’s unfamiliar, I am hopeless with directions.

4. What is your worst habit?

Shopping for hours and coming home without purchasing what I went for.

5. Best advice you have ever been given?

Treat people for how they treat you not how others think you should treat them.

6. If you only had $50 left in the bank, how would you spend it?

Pedicure 7. Favourite holiday destination and why?

Toowoon Bay on the Central Coast is my favourite place for weekend getaways, it’s close to Sydney and it makes me feel like I could be anywhere in the world without a worry.

8. Do you have a favourite sporting team?

I am a Penrith Panther’s supporter of course!

9. Name one reason that you love Western Sydney?

Community! I love the way people come together and are there for one another.

10. In three words, describe your perfect Sunday?

Relaxation, Lunch and a Sauvignon Blanc

Mamre Rd roadworks Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions on Mamre Road at St Clair and Mount Vernon from next week for essential maintenance work to be carried out.

Work will involve upgrading drains on Mamre Road around 500 metres south of Banks Drive and between Kerrs Road and Mount Vernon Road to reduce the need for ongoing future maintenance and improve safety for motorists.

Work will be carried out on weekdays for around 20 shifts at each location between Monday 29 May and Friday 28 July from 7am to 6pm and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays, excluding public holidays and weather permitting.

Traffic control and changed traffic conditions will be in place for the safety of workers and motorists.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.

Roads and Maritime Services thanks the community for its patience while work is carried out.

For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

Access to PBA documents Following a number of unsuccessful requests to access financial documents, Penrith Council commenced legal proceedings against the Penrith Business Alliance (PBA) in the Supreme Court on April 7 2017. The proceedings were to seek an order from the Court that the PBA provide Council with access to records evidencing the use of funds provided to the PBA by Council from July 1 2014 to June 30 2015.

The PBA was created in 2009 as an independent Council funded entity to deliver citywide economic development and employment services, and was under the chairmanship of Mr Paul Brennan. It was funded with public money totalling $3.5Million.

Following an independent review, funding was withdrawn in June 2015.

On Friday 5 May 2017 the Supreme Court issued consent orders: 1. The PBA is to give Council discovery [access]of documents evidencing how monies paid by Council to the PBA in the period 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 were paid out or used by the PBA; 2. By 21 July 2017, the PBA is to comply with the order for discovery in order 1 [above] by serving on Council a list of documents that deals with all documents referred to in order 1 [above].

3. a. the PBA is to permit the Council to inspect documents referred to in any list of documents by 28 July 2017 and make copies of documents if required; and b. the Council is to inspect documents referred to in any list of documents by 28 July 2017.

4. That each party is to pay its own costs of the proceedings.

5. That the summons is otherwise dismissed.

Nominate a local volunteer for recognition Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP is encouraging local residents to acknowledge the efforts of community members who give their time to help others, by nominating them for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.

Nominations for the program were opened on Wednesday 10 May at Parliament House by the Minister responsible for volunteering, Ray Williams.

Tanya Davies said the contributions of local volunteers to the Mulgoa community cannot be overstated.

“Day in and day out, local residents from school students to grandparents are tirelessly working to strengthen the fabric of our community by lending a hand to those who need it,” Tanya Davies said.

“I encourage residents to recognise a local who gives their time to help others by nominating them for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.”

Categories for the program include student volunteers, people who have made a significant volunteering effort, retired volunteers, people with more than 25 years of volunteering experience and people who have been volunteers for more than 40 years.

Minister Williams said the program acknowledges the efforts of everyday citizens throughout the state.

“People who volunteer are happier, healthier and more connected to their communities,” he said.

Over 2.1 million people volunteer in NSW, contributing 240 million hours of their time, and adding an estimated $5 billion of value each year. The Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program celebrates the importance of volunteering and has recognised the hard work of more than 14,000 volunteers across NSW. To nominate a volunteer for the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program or for more information about volunteering in NSW please visit www.volunteering. nsw.gov.au.

Think outside the square’ knitting challenge VIEW It’s getting chilly! Imagine not having a warm bed to sleep in or a roof over your head?

Too many people in Penrith face homelessness this winter so local business The Creative Fringe is planning to make a difference - but they need your help!

Last year The Creative Fringe ran a denim challenge out of their co-working space. The challenge was to turn old denim skirts that were donated to TCF into different items that were then put up for auction on eBay. “We were so impressed with the incredible talent and creativity that everyone demonstrated. From teddy bears to bags, aprons, dresses and blankets, we were able to raise nearly $400,” explained Owner and Creative Director Debbie O’Connor.

The money was donated to First Seeds Fund who provide assistance to women and children in Western Sydney.

This year the team at The Creative Fringe plan on bringing some warmth to our homeless community in Penrith.

The ‘Think Outside the Square Knitting Challenge’ encourages anyone who can or who wants to learn to knit, to get stitching a simple 20x20cm square.

The squares will need to be handed into The Creative Fringe by 30 June where Debbie and her happy helpers will sew the squares together to make blankets.

The blankets will be donated to Mama Lana’s Community Foundation for them to hand out to their patrons.

Apart from warmth these blankets will also be a symbol of love, generosity and kindness.

If you would like to be part of the challenge please knit as many squares as you can and have them delivered to The Creative Fringe at Unit 6, 51 York Road, Jamisontown or call the the team on 1300 722 896.

Follow The Creative Fringe on Facebook to keep up to date with what’s happening with the challenge - www.facebook.com/ fringesydney

Club meeting Monday 19th June, 2017 – Nepean Evening VIEW Club (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) are holding their Dinner Meeting at Panthers Penrith arrive 7.00pm for 7.30pm. 3 course meal $28.

Bookings essential. Speaker is a representative of Past Times Tours who will speak about the Women’s Factory at Parramatta Australia’s earliest female convict site.

Women of VIEW support disadvantaged Australian children through the Smith Family’s Learning for Life programme. New members and visitors warmly welcomed.

Details and bookings to Colleen on 4735 4982.

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Petition against m4 toll lodged this week The NSW Opposition has lodged a petition with more than 10,000 signatures to NSW Parliament against the reintroduction of the M4 toll.

Londonderry MP Prue Car said angry western Sydney and Blue Mountains residents had signed the petition, which will soon be debated in Parliament. Signatures were collected from right across western Sydney by Western Sydney Labor MPs who gathered on Tuesday to lodge the petition.

The petition is in response to what the Opposition calls a “a whopping new tax that is due to be slapped on Western Sydney residents in the second half of this year after Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the toll on the widened section of the M4 between Parramatta and Homebush.”

Labor’s figures say the new toll will cost motorists up to $4.56 meaning five-day-a-week commuters face paying an extra $2,188 a year to travel on the M4.

According to the Opposition, before the road is even open the toll has already gone up from $4.21 to $4.56 and it will go up every year at or above the rate of inflation for the next 43 years.

Opposition Luke Foley said the widened M4 section of the

WestConnex project is costing approximately $500 million and that this money will be recouped through tolls in just a few years – but the M4 toll will stay on for decades to effectively pay for the other stages of the road project including the M4-M5 link and the widened M5.

“It’s a great big monster tax on Western Sydney motorists,” he said.

“The number of signatories rose faster than the toll itself – and that’s saying something.

“We’ll keep campaigning on this all the way until the next election.”

Shadow Minister Assisting the Leader of the Opposition on Western Sydney Prue Car said residents across the region were not happy about the tolls.

“Communities across Western Sydney are furious about this - evident in the fact we have more than 10,000 signatures,” Mrs Car said.

“It’s a kick in the guts that communities in Western Sydney will have to pay more than $2,000 dollars a year extra in tolls when cost of living pressures are already out of control.”

Cancer survivor to compete in fundraising rally

By Conner Lowe

IT’S not easy to hear the words ‘You have Leukaemia’ from your doctor and for Kristine Lawn this was a reality when she was diagnosed in 2014.

Kristine was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of Leukaemia. Acute Myeloid Leukaemia or AML, is an unforgiving and devastating form of Cancer that leaves many with no chance of survival and only a few percent of people diagnosed will successfully beat the disease.

Kristine eventually did battle the disease and was cleared Leukaemia free, however, only nine months later she was again diagnosed with Leukaemia and told her only option was a bone marrow transplant.

Kristine spoke about her ordeal when she was told the Leukaemia had returned and the process she went through to get the transplant.

“When I was initially diagnosed, part of the protocol is to test any siblings you have in case you do need a transplant.

About six weeks after diagnosis I knew which sister was a match,” Kristine said.

“My sister Francine was totally on board and committed to being my donor and never hesitated.

“They almost pulled the pin on the transplant as, in previous years had a small sarcoma on her arm which needed surgical removal, but no cancer treatment like chemo or radiation. The benefits of her being the match far outweighed any cons and I was not in a position for them to find another match.

I would not have made it,” she said.

“It’s a gift that you can never ever repay and she has now allowed me to hopefully live to a ripe old age and to see my children grow up,” she added.

Now that Kristine is again Leukaemia free, she and her sister Janine have decided to take on the ‘Shitbox Rally’ which raises money for cancer research. They idea of the Rally is for the people participating to drive a car worth no more than $1000 across Australia, via some of its toughest roads and terrain.

There are over 200 cars participating and will travel in small buddy groups along with Support and Medical vehicles.

Kristine spoke about her excitement coming into the challenge and why she is competing in

such a difficult challenge.

“My other sister, Janine, is my rally partner and chief driver.

We came across the rally when I went into remission the first time. We thought it as awesome, so applied,” she said.

“Unfortunately, we missed out on the Shitbox Rally 2015 but were accepted for the baby brother rally called Mystery Box 2015. After doing all our fundraising and planning, four weeks prior to the rally I relapsed. My eldest son took my place and did the rally with my sister. They loved it so much we planned to apply again,” she

said.

“Without others donating and fundraising for cancer research I would not be here. This is my way of giving back and celebrating what I hope will be a long life,” she added.

Nepean News would like to wish Kristine and Janine a safe trip and hopefully an enjoyable and unforgettable challenge.

If you would like to learn more about the Shitbox Rally or Cancer Council, the links to their websites will be listed below: www.shitboxrally.com.au www.cancercouncil.com.au

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Campaign against penalty rate cuts

By Keegan Thomson

A new western Sydney alliance of trade unions, churches and community organisations have issued a joint declaration to campaign against cuts to weekend and public holiday penalty.

The campaign, which has been championed by Federal Labor MP for Lindsay, Emma Husar, will run until the next federal election and aims to help give struggling locals a fair go.

Vowing to highlight what they believe is an unfair burden on low income earners, many of whom are women and young people, the campaign aims to highlight the issues surrounding the cutting of penalty rates.

Previously it has been reported that Lindsay and western Sydney will cop the full effects of the penalty rate cuts due the high proportion of people employed in the areas of retail, accommodation and hospitality.

Member for Lindsay, Emma Husar said penalty rate cuts would mean more households in Penrith will be forced to tighten their purse strings.

“More than 12,000 people in Lindsay work in the retail, food and accommodation industries affected by the cuts – that’s more workers than in the worst affected area listed in this report. That’s one in six workers in our local community who stand to lose up to $77 per week,” Ms Husar said.

Ms Husar said the flow-on affects of the penalty rate cuts would be felt across the whole community.

“Cuts to penalty rates also mean these workers will have less money to spend in local shops, restaurants and businesses and as this report shows, penalty rate cuts affect more women and young people, and hurt local economies – this is not good enough,” she said.

 From left Mary Court, Norm Short, Trent Hunter, Wayne Ross, Emma Husar, Peter Mason, Geoff Derrick, Greg Groves, George Asciak, Marina Findeis, Bernie Smith, Mary Yaager. Photo: Supplied

Penrith Valley Community Unions spokesperson Peter Mason, who is also an Organiser with the Health Services Union, stated that hospital cleaners, including those working at Nepean Hospital, would bear the brunt of the penalty tax reduction.

“Hospital cleaners who are on very low incomes will lose $86.48 in penalty rates for working Saturdays and will lose $172.96 for working on a Sunday which is outrageous,” Mr Mason said.

“Penrith Valley Community Unions will keep on the fight to protect penalty rates for all workers in our region,” he said.

Paul Davies of Professionals Australia said pharmacists would also lose out as well due to their work having connections with retail. He said the cuts would make it hard for young pharmacists to stay in the job.

“Pharmacists are among the lowest paid health

professionals in the country: after five years university including a one year internship, the average salary a pharmacist earns is less than $62,000 a year. Those who work a regular Sunday shift will now lose up to $6,000 a year making it hard for pharmacists to stay in the profession. Cuts to penalty rates is an attack on our health services,” he said.

In relation to this, Dr John Falzone of the St Vincent de Paul Society issued a statement saying Vinnies was deeply saddened by the Fair Work Commission’s decision to undermine Sunday and public holiday penalty rates.

“This is an attack on people who already struggle to survive and for whom penalty rates make an important difference from week to week. This decision will result in more people needing to seek assistance from charities. The answer however, is not charity. It is justice,” Dr Falzone said.

The Ancient Temples of Cambodia

By Ben Cranney

We were looking for a taxi to take us from the Thai border to Siem Reap in Cambodia, the home of Angkor Wat. Herded into tuk-tuks by drivers saying ‘taxi’ and ‘visa’, we assumed we were heading the right way until we turned up at the ‘visa and taxi ticket centre’, where slick salesmen sold legitimate, but overpriced, visas and taxis.

The real visa point, with its machine gun wielding military personnel, was hard to miss once we saw it, and the dedicated taxi stand was just beyond.

We shared a rusted old taxi with two Americans, who for the past two weeks had ‘showered’ by splashing on a bit of talcum powder. When the smell got too much, I hung my head out the window and enjoyed the sunset across the rice fields.

We stopped for gas, sold from a rusted out pump with a frayed hose. I would have bet on our driver paying for leaking gas, but that didn’t stop him having a smoke, probably to clear the BO from his nostrils.

There was no leak, so we didn’t explode and we made it to Siem Reap. Tuk-tuk drivers again cornered us, offering their services for a day’s sightseeing at 20 to 40USD, depending on the itinerary. It’s worth planning ahead, as you could easily spend a week in the area made up of days at the pink stoned temple Bantey Srei and the sacred mountain top spring at Phnom Kulen, or exploring the Bayon temples and overgrown Ta Prohm, or just hanging around in town, enjoying the markets and the food.

Or just head straight to the main attraction,

Angkor Wat. Dress conservatively. We learnt the hard way, when my wife wasn’t allowed in the inner sanctum in a 3/4 length dress. We started carrying around long, light pants and tops just in case.

We watched the sun come up behind Angkor Wat, which creates a fantastic silhouette against the sky and reflects on the lake for a classic photo opportunity.

Just as special was the solitude at the back of the temple, where the early sun plays across the temple walls. From here, it’s easy to forget that there are a thousand people one hundred meters away. That is, until the slick salespeople come at you again.

Everything costs one dollar. Except for what you want, which was made by a master craftsman, and is very expensive. Be sure to bargain.

Dedicated mental health triage and assessment centre opens

People seeking urgent mental health care at Nepean Hospital are now able to receive help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at one of the state’s newest dedicated triage and assessment centres.

Officially opened last week by NSW Minister for Mental Health, Tanya Davies, and Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, the triage and assessment centre (TAC) will also help reduce demand on the Hospital’s emergency department.

“The centre is staffed with highly skilled nurses, doctors and other health professionals, who can not only assess the patient, but work with them on a health plan and, if required, admit them for inhospital care,” Mrs Davies said.

Mr Ayres said members of the community in

need of mental health care could go directly to the TAC, without attending the emergency department, if they do not require urgent medical care for physical injuries or other serious physical health conditions.

“The TAC is dedicated to delivering compassionate and responsive mental health care for those who need it most, day or night,” Mr Ayres said.

“People can walk into the centre without an appointment or be brought to the centre by family, friends, ambulance paramedics, and other emergency services.”

General Manager of Mental Health in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District,

Cathy Crowe, said the purpose built facility began operating in February this year.

“Importantly we also have peer workers on site to help guide and support our patients. Our peer workers have all previously received mental health care and have personal insight that is very helpful to our patients,” Ms Crowe said.

The new TAC is part of the multi-million dollar Mental Health building on the Nepean Hospital campus.

“This unique service promises to help thousands of people to access urgent mental health care more easily,” Mrs Davies said.

If you or someone you know needs help call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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Spark your city Have you had a good look around Penrith lately?

There’s many new cafes and restaurants sparking the city’s economy!

Penrith City Council have been working with Penrith CBD Corp and the Penrith Valley Chamber to grow our city’s experience for night time dining.

Penrith is growing at a rapid rate - soon we will have over 5,000 new residents living in the CBD. With this in mind, Penrith CBD has worked with Nepean Community College to offer FREE State training for our cafes, restaurants and local businesses to be skilled and ready for the future.

Penrith City Council’s SPARK website contains the latest information about what’s happening and what to do in the Penrith CBD after dark, including a guide to the exciting restaurants and eateries in High Street, Henry St, Riley St and the city centre.

You can also download the Penrith CBD Corp App for location, opening hours and contact details for easy choice to DINE LOCALLY. Improved lighting, footpaths, signage and working with local businesses to enhance the visitations to the CBD, creating a diverse and safe city centre.

New cafes and restaurants include: High Street Social, Big Poppas, Burger Head, Beefy Burgers, El Jannah, The Natural Choice Café, Manic Organic, Olives Pizza.

And of course, we already have: The Union Café Restaurant and now Wine Bar open plus award winning Henri Marc and High Street Depot.

Penrith businesses proudly supported by

Faeriestorm makes family life easier on families

By Ellen Hill

Race home from work. Pick the kids up from school.

Feed them afternoon tea. Get the washing off the line.

Supervise homework. Take one child to music lessons, another to soccer training and a third to a play date. Bath the baby. Prepare dinner.

What if a fairy godmother did all that for you and all you had to do was enjoy your children? In your dreams right?

Wrong.

Brenda Edwards and her team at Faeriestorm Nanny Service take the hard work out of your busy life so your family can spend more time focusing on, well, being a family. ``Running a household, holding down a job and dedicating time to your kids is hard work,’’ Mrs Edwards (``Miss Brenda’’ to her charges) says. ``Sometimes it’s even impossible. But we can make it easier.’’

While the central focus of all Faeriestorm nannies is always the children in their care, ``our second priority is to make your life a little less stressful’’.

Unlike a babysitter who only looks after the child, a nanny cares about the whole family.

Most nannies conduct light duties around the home such as laundry, meal preparation and tidying depending on their individual skills and the wishes and needs of the family. ``The first role is to look after the children: their washing, their learning, their food, their play,’’ Mrs Edwards says. ``But it’s also about helping parents have uninterrupted bonding time with their children. ``One of my clients needs to have her two boys picked up from school, homework done and a little bit of dinner

Photo: David Hill, Deep Hill Media

preparation so that when she comes home she can just enjoy quality time with her boys. ``I’m like an aunty or another grandma.’’

All Faeriestorm nannies have Certificate III in Childcare and first aid certificate qualifications, a working with children check and wear a uniform while working.

Most have children of their own and many have worked in childcare centres. ``It helps if you’ve run a home for the little things – you won’t step over the toys, you’ll ask the children to help pick them up or you will pick them up yourself; you’ll wipe the kitchen counter over; you’ll fold the washing. You won’t have to be asked to do those things.’’

While the service is tailored to each family’s short or long-term needs and nannies are matched to families, honesty, reliability and discretion are paramount in all cases, Mrs Edwards says.

The mother-of-six became a nanny in 2009 and, for two years, worked six days a week, rarely seeing her own family before employing other nannies.

Today, Faeriestorm Nanny Service operates in private homes throughout the Penrith, Blue Mountains and Sydney region with a team of nannies, and can cater for children with special needs.

Nannies are also available to care for individual children or groups when parents attend events such as weddings and parties and for travellers in hotels, especially while parents enjoy evening fine dining experiences or grown up activities such as adventure sports or ghost tours.

Contact Brenda Edwards on 0417 448 318 or at nanny@bluemountainsnanny.com.au for more information.

15 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Take the pledge for National Palliative Care Week In January 2009, Caroline Raunjak’s husband Eddy was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. Eddy was weeks shy of his 53rd birthday.

“Eddy’s diagnosis came as a complete shock as he was healthy and fit,” Mrs Raunjak said.

May 21 to 28 is National Palliative Care Week. Through its I Care for Palliative Care advocacy campaign, Cancer Council NSW is calling on the state health minister to fund a minimum of 10 additional specialist palliative doctors, 129 palliative care nurses and culturally appropriate palliative care for Aboriginal people.

Cancer Council NSW Greater Western Sydney Community Programs Coordinator Eleonora Bergamaschini said NSW was behind every other state and territory when it came to the number of palliative care nurses per head of population.

“It’s sad to think that many people in NSW are unable to access specialist palliative care and support because there just isn’t enough specialist staff to support them,” she said.

Ms Bergamaschini said stories like the Raunjaks showed the critical need for palliative care support in NSW. “Just before Christmas 2009, after chemotherapy

and surgery, we asked the oncologist what the chances of the cancer returning were. He told us about 50 per cent within the next three years. The cancer returned in April 2011 and Eddy was given six months,” Mrs Raunjak said.

Community nurses from the palliative care team at Hawkesbury Hospital spent time with both Eddy and Caroline at their home.

“The nurses became my teachers. As an example, I learned how to change the drip to keep Eddy hydrated. Community palliative care was the best option for us. We need to have choices of where we die, whether it’s hospital, a hospice or the home,

but sadly cost seems to be more important to the decision makers than the care we all deserve. Our story is a good palliative care story, we were very lucky, but I also remember saying that there was no way I would have been able to do what I did if I was in my 80s,” Mrs Raunjak said.

Eddy died in October 2011. He was 55.

Cancer Council NSW is encouraging people to take the pledge and urge the NSW government to fund more palliative physicians, specialist palliative nurses and Aboriginal focused services in NSW. To take the pledge, visit canact.com.au/palliative_ care_pledge

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Congratulations to our local gold medallist Jason Hooper Mt Druitt has another sporting champion.

Disabled swimmer Jason Hooper won an impressive three gold medals and one silver medal from five races at the World Masters Games in New Zealand this April.

“It was a pleasure to catch up with Mt Druitt local Jason to celebrate his outstanding swimming achievements,” said Federal Member for Chifley, Ed Husic.

He won gold in the 50 metre breaststroke, 200 metre freestyle, 400 metre freestyle and took home silver in the 50 metre freestyle.

“Congratulations on your incredible results, Jason,” Mr Husic said.

“Mt Druitt should be very proud of Jason’s performances. We can all learn from the example he sets. His work ethic and determination should inspire all.”

Jason said he was crying tears of joy after finishing his final race at the games in New Zealand.

That elation is well-deserved because he has had a stellar career.

Over 26 years of competitive swimming Jason, 50, has won 163 gold medals, 46 silver medals and four bronze medals.

Jason also completed a huge seven hour swim at Mt Druitt pool in 2015 to raise money for homelessness.

“It’s also important to remember that sport is about having fun, which Jason knows well,” Mr

Husic said.

Competing seriously for more than two decades hasn’t slowed Jason’s quick wit or reduced his love of a funny story.

17 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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While Jason’s now hung up the goggles on what has been an astonishing career he can rightly cherish an amazing catalogue of medals for many years to come. Well done.

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

More help for vulnerable energy customers Vulnerable energy customers in NSW have more access to help pay their bills with 342 community welfare organisations now able to issue $50 emergency vouchers.

The NSW Government has added 30 organisations to its Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Scheme to support those struggling to pay electricity or gas bills.

Energy and Utilities Minister Don Harwin today welcomed the new welfare groups and said their involvement will boost assistance for people that need it most.

“Our Government helped more than 55,000 vulnerable customers pay their energy bills through the EAPA scheme alone last year,” Mr Harwin said.

“Close to $12 million in vouchers were issued through community welfare organisations in 2015/16 and with more now on board, including Western Sydney branches of Anglicare and Wesley Mission, we can help more people in need.”

Mr Harwin said the scheme provides emergency financial assistance to customers at risk of disconnection from essential services. “EAPA helps people experiencing short term financial crisis or a disaster pay their electricity or natural gas bill, ensuring they stay connected during periods of financial difficulty,” Mr Harwin said.

Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres revealed the scheme will soon be online, which will provide quicker help to customers in crisis.

“This year’s accreditation process was brought forward so new welfare organisations can be included in the July 1 transition to digital EAPA vouchers.

Vouchers will be processed quicker and this means faster relief for customers,” Mr Ayres said.

“Each voucher has a value of $50 and is issued to eligible customers by welfare organisations throughout the state, including many new ones in Western Sydney. Energy retailers are required to

accept vouchers as credit towards a customer’s bill.”

Anglicare CEO Grant Millard said Government rebate programs make a difference.

“EAPA is one of many NSW Government rebates our clients assess. EAPA vouchers help older people afford extra heating and air con, reconnect people’s

disconnected gas and electricity and helps people out of a downward debt spiral,” Mr Millard said.

For more information visit http://www. resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/energy-consumers/ financial-assistance/stay-connected-throughfinancial-crisis.

“As long as you had fun” is the mantra of losers - or is it? Opinion with TP

Winning is a primeval thing. Deep down everyone wants to win. Anyone who says it doesn’t matter if you win, only how you play the game is lying!

Now I completely agree for children under the age of 10, “as long as you had fun” is sensible advice as it encourages children to become good sports and learn the skills of their chosen sport.

However after that age, we should encourage a healthy lust for winning and the skills to be as gracious in victory as in defeat.

Currently, I see many coaches and parents letting

children think that it’s a a bit of kick and giggle and if we win that’s a bonus. We are doing children a huge disservice in relation to building their resilience - getting children to be happy to enjoy losing - by telling them it’s all about the way they play the game.

Having a fear of loss or failure can spur them on to be intrinsically motivated to build more skills and run that much faster to get to the ball.

I think it’s healthy to want to win and to be hungry for the ball, goal, target.

I’m not condoning ugly displays of brutish thuggery against the opposition.

Nor am I suggesting the boisterous sideline behaviours of anxious parents hoping for a win at all costs. Promising their child money for successful goal attempts is also not appropriate.

I’m talking about kids who have a keen desire to win and to feel okay about that.

After all, sport is meant to be a display of might, strength and will and has been played from the beginning of time in order to demonstrate the player’s skills and put fear into their opposition.

When you see a good hard-fought game of any kind, you get a sense of a gladiatorial undertone permeating through the field, it is palpable and there is real excitement as you watch the teams clash and fight hard to be victorious.

Nothing on earth beats scoring a cracking goal or the winning goal - and it should be celebrated.

Not in the “look at me I’m a God” kind of way, but a punch in the air with a few back-slaps from team mates would just about do it.

So I think what we should be saying to our kids is that we play sport to be fit and spend time with our mates. Also, winning is a great feeling and if they put everything into it with a mind to win, then that is awesome.

If they don’t win, they can know that they all played their best and the better team won on the day.

But wanting to win should be the focus of the game, otherwise why bother playing at all?

Lions have got the Salvo’s back for appeal

By Jim Devine

Colloquially, when someone ‘has your back’ they protect or support you.

On Sunday, 28 May, the Lions Club of Emu Plains will do just that; supporting the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal Doorknock, for the 27 th year in a row.

The door-knock will take place with volunteer drivers and collectors in over 13 designated areas in the Emu Plains, Emu Heights and Leonay areas. Lions organiser, John Choma, reminded all volunteers that the assembly point this year is the Emu Plains Community Centre, Lawson Street, Emu Plains.

It’s not too late to contact John on 4735 5120 to register your interest in helping out.

If you’re not volunteering, you can help out by answering the doorbell on Sunday, and be ready to hand over whatever you can afford. Donations, no matter how small, will help the Salvos continue their invaluable work in the community.

The Red Shield Appeal funds support a number of social programs in the Penrith area including Mature Workers Program, Youth Leadership Program, Drug and Alcohol Program

19 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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 Incoming Lions President, Alan Cooper (left) and the Salvation Army’s Major David Pullen (right). • And Domenic Meduri (left) presenting a cheque to Major David Pullen of the Salvation Army (right). Pictures courtesy of Cheryl Devine

and Counselling Service. If you think you may not be home on the doorknock, please send your donation to The Salvation Army, Red Shield Appeal, GPO Box 9888, Sydney, or https://www.my.salvationarmy.org. au/donation/ The Appeal received a great ‘headstart’ with Frank and Domenic Meduri of McDonalds Cambridge Gardens, Penrith North and their newly rebuilt McCafe at St Marys

North, contributing $ 1,000.

The McDonalds St Marys North store has just undergone a major upgrade and modernisation and sits in the St Marys Leagues Club precinct, which includes the football ovals and a major redevelopment including hotel accommodation.

Majors David and Robin Pullen of the Salvation Army, thanked the Lions Club and associated volunteers for their invaluable assistance for many

past years of the Sunday Red Shield Appeal. David indicated that the funds from the Appeal are ‘ploughed’ back into the local area, but that the total ‘spend’ was around ‘threefold’ of that collected in the Appeal.

Volunteers will receive a ‘thank you’ certificate from the Salvos, a McDonalds voucher, a drink bottle, and a ‘famous’ BBQ sausage sandwich and a drink from the Emu Plains Lions Club.

now re-opened

Cnr Forrester and Boronia Roads, St Marys North

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Children and dogs – Part 1 Having children and dogs together can be a great experience. Most dogs end up bonding strongly with children in the family and the love between a child and a dog can be a wonderful thing. However, many people assume that dogs should be willing to tolerate absolutely anything a child does. Some parents will allow their children to chase, poke, pull tails and annoy the family pet! While some dogs can tolerate this, this puts the child in immense risk if the dog decides it has finally had enough.

Over the next few weeks we will discuss how to aim for a household where pets and children live in harmony. We will discuss preparing puppies for children, preparing your adult dog for children and the changes the dog may face as children grow up!

The best way to avoid a potentially dangerous situation is to supervise all interactions between your dog and your kids. Even if your dog is friendly & gentle, remember that it only takes a few seconds for a child to accidently hurt a dog and for the dog to react. If you supervise diligently, you can step in

when necessary to avoid bad experiences for both your dog and your children.

What signs are you looking for as a parent? If a dog shows their teeth or growls at a child, obviously they are feeling overwhelmed and reacting. But,

there are subtle signs that you can pick up before such dramatic behaviours occur. It is much safer to learn and recognise early warning signs that a dog is feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed or uncomfortable.

The first signs that a dog is getting uncomfortable is often a ‘freeze’ or a hard stare. Some dogs will simply run away and some dogs will also prick their ears back when they are feeling anxious. If these signs fail to deter the action that is making the dog uncomfortable, the signs may escalate to snarling, growling and biting.

If you aren’t able to supervise the interaction between your dog and children, it is best to confine the dog in a safe area away from the kids. If you teach your dog to be comfortable in a crate, you can easily put them away when necessary. A crate also provides a safe place for your dog to sleep & eat without worrying about children bothering them.

Make sure that children can not access your dog’s confinement area as this needs to be the dogs ‘safe space’.

Next week we will discuss how to raise a puppy that interacts well with children. If you have any questions about your dogs health or behaviour, please contact Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic on 4731 3055.

Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

Phone 47 313 055

Opinion: New Fire and Emergency Services Levy: not so fair

By Bart Bassett

When the State Government first mooted its proposed change for collecting the Fire and Emergency Service Levy I thought this was a very convenient way for the State Government to change the way the levy is collected but indirectly have residents confused about whose new tax it is.

Councils will surely be blamed when the rates notice arrives and rates have gone up.

Forget the waffling political-speak that the rates notice has different itemised line-items for billing, the average person looks at the total amount due in the rates notice and thinks “bloody Council” my rates have gone up!

As a matter of fact councils already contribute a percentage of the cost for Fire and Emergency Services operations every year which is embedded in the general council rates, so in fact the new levy is on top of the current charge councils already pay. Is this charge being removed from rates or is the new levy an additional charge?

A good example of a charge on a council rates notice that is in place of a State Government levy is that of waste water pump-out charges. There are many residential areas in western Sydney where Sydney Water doesn’t supply a waste water connection, so instead the council has to provide a service paid for by the users to regularly pump out waste water.

That’s right, for all of you out there who use water for domestic use then it goes down the drain and is gone and you pay a Sydney Water bill for the

privilege, this would come as a shock - but there are many people paying for a truck to come and take that waste water away.

The charge for the pump-out service appears on the rates notice, and rate payers assume it is a council charge and complain when it goes up. In fact it is in place of a Sydney Water bill and this is exactly what rate payers will think over time that the new Fire and Emergency Services Levy is just another council charge.

Let’s look at this issue more carefully. The levy is currently collected via insurance policies, so the argument for change is those not paying for insurance were getting a free ride for the provision of emergency services.

From July 1 this year, all property owners will

be slugged the Fire and Emergency Service Levy but the unfairness of this is that it will be calculated on the land value which varies over time and across different geographical areas.

Surely the fairest way of collecting the fire levy would be by having a fixed amount levied on every rate notice across NSW so that all were contributing the same for the same service.

How could it be that in areas of high flood or fire probability, some will be paying less than those living in areas where bush fire or flood isn’t such a big risk - and the only reason they pay more is because of land value.

I have also heard some people say people on more expensive property should pay more. I say why? What about people who bought houses decades back and are not cash-rich, just asset-rich? Why should they pay more just because their land valuation has gone up? Do we now as a society expect people to sell the family home just so they can pay new taxes? I didn’t think we punished people just because their only asset, the family home, has increased in value.

The government has this wrong and they need to urgently review the way the levy is calculated and how it will be collected, because last time I looked, the Liberal Party stood for a user-pays philosophy, not a tax on the supposed rich. Is that another Liberal philosophy that has been scrapped? For the sake of the majority of people and for fairness to prevail, I hope the government reconsiders the method of calculating the levy so all contribute equally toward a service that all have equal access to.

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

The G Spot

Today I am going to talk about your greatest asset.

No, not your football team, your house; the bricks and mortar surrounding you that will either make or break you.

So many times I’ve attended break and enters and some bonehead has left the side gate unlocked and the laundry window open, and wonder why they got broken into. (HELLO) Seriously, I feel like doing a Jackie Chan on some people with a couple of Ninja kicks just to wake them up.

So, I’m gonna fill you in on a few home security tips, that may jolt the grey matter into getting you to actually lock the doors and to secure your homes.

Now your trusted neighbour Sally-May (who sees all) may write down the regos of every car on the planet and tell you who’s sleeping with who in the street, but she is only good when she is home.

Because Sally- May has just copped the latest 30 per cent off sale catalogue in the mail and she’s burning rubber to get to the shops (Ciao Bella).

Sensor lighting- You’re on a winner with this one, and these can be purchased from any good electrical-

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

selling thingy shop, I can’t tell you which ones or I could get done for cash for comment. But make sure a licensed person installs them - not Uncle Joe for a slab of beer as payment. Also, you don’t need lights that are going to land the NASA spaceship - just enough for a spot light.

The beloved hedges (privacy screening) out the front of house - these beauties are 30 metres high, even planes have to avoid your joint when flying over and it’s so lush you need GPRS tracking to find your mail box. This is a BIG no because you are providing a screening for offenders (bad, naughty people) to break into your house uninterrupted. Trim it.

Buying electricals - you have finally purchased that mega TV that is so big it needs a tax file number - however you have dumped the boxes out the front.

Now this is another BIG no no ( Tut, Tut, Tut) because now the bad naughty people know that you have LCD bigger than Anthony Mundine’s ego. My suggestion is to cut up the boxes and throw them out (In the appropriate bin of course!).

Lock up that shed- Now every man (that I know of) is very proud of his tools, however when not

home put em away - we don’t need to know what you have.

The dog- I don’t know how people think that their Chihuahua X Pitt bull will rip everyone to shreds if anyone jumped the fence. All I can say is that you give the dog a bone, they are only as loyal as their last meal (Sorry) and offenders will do the same.

Get yourself an alarm system- Okay now this is the serious part because I flog off this type of stuff, so please get a licensed technician to install it who has a security Master Licence (Ask for it!) ours is 405 714 685. Alarm sirens can squeal higher than your mother in-law winning on the pokies, these babies are a great deterrent.

So there you have it, now you know how to secure your house (tick) Sally-May can have a day off from taking rego numbers (tick), your husband’s tools are finally tucked away ( Thank God) (tick) staple your dog to the side gate with a warning sign (tick) your front hedge will look slicker than Ray Martin’s hair and all international flights can take an hour off their journey because they can now fly over your house (tick).

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KPMG Australia has acquired the business of Penrith-based accounting and tax practice, TRACE Chartered Accountants, supporting the growth of the firm’s mid-market business, KPMG Enterprise.

TRACE Chartered Accountants has been providing professional services to the Nepean community for more than 30 years. Founded by Brien Tracey, and later joined by his son and new KPMG Partner Peter Tracey, the business comprises of 11 team members, in which nine are female.

The TRACE team has now commenced with KPMG and will continue to be based at the existing Penrith premises – increasing KPMG’s footprint to three offices in Sydney, and 14 nationally. TRACE provides professional services to a variety of industries in the Nepean region; including manufacturers, retailers, medical and legal, small business and high-profile sportspeople.

“This acquisition of TRACE adds strong relationships and capability in the Nepean region. We’re delighted to welcome a highly motivated and predominantly female team, with a strong cultural fit, and complimentary business service capabilities,” said KPMG Australia CEO Gary Wingrove.

“KPMG now has a ‘three cities’ presence in Sydney – Sydney CBD, Parramatta, and Penrith. Western Sydney is one of the fastestgrowing regions in the country, and I’m confident this positive trend will continue, with significant infrastructure and associated investment expected through the development of Western Sydney Airport,” he added.

Peter Tracey was equally enthusiastic.

“Becoming part of the KPMG network is an exciting progression for our team and clients, and significantly deepens our resources and breadth of services,” he said.

“Many of our clients have traveled this journey with us, starting off as small ‘mum & dad’ enterprises and growing into multi-million dollar businesses - some of which are now run by a second generation. We have also forged a strong bond in the local community and look forward to continuing that under the KPMG banner.

“The potential of Western Sydney is creating exciting business opportunities. And the expansion

by KPMG into the Nepean region is testament of this,”

Join

With overall revenue growth of around 15 percent in Greater Western Sydney, KPMG plans to create around 250 local jobs in the next two years.

Two new partners were recently appointed to its Parramatta office, providing additional expertise in audit and advisory business. Capability has also been expanded to include the motor industry and M&A services.

KPMG continues to work closely with Western Sydney University and its business innovation program, Launchpad, helping to expand capability in the advanced manufacturing sector and support companies transitioning from domestic to globally competitive businesses.

Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Penrith office completes ‘three cities’ Sydney presence

The addition of the Penrith office marks the thirteenth acquisition by KPMG Australia in the past two years. Investments include social media risk consultancy, SR7; the Melbourne team of Pacific Strategy Partners; an accounting practice in Karratha, WA; mining services consultancy Momentum Partners; SGA Property Consultancy; First Point Global cyber security business; accounting and advisory business Hayes Knight (WA); human rights and social impact consultancy, Banarra; Microsoft Implementation partner, Hands-on Systems; The Performance Clinic; financial services technology consultancy, Markets IT; and most recently specialist Indigenous consultancy, Arrilla.

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Penrith Mayor, John Thain pictured alongside Penrith Cricket Club womens’ skipper and recently re-signed Sydney Thunder squad member, Mikayla Hinkley, is excited with the return of the Sydney Thunder for two women’s Big Bash League games this Friday and Saturday at Howell Oval against the Adelaide Strikers.

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Thursday, 11 August 2016

ISSUE 181

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BOBBY’S BATTLE

Penrith’s Division One Youth League women’s team has taken out the premiership title with two gritty performances at Finals Weekend. Photo: Kim Vernon. Story by Noel Rowsell p46

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BASKETBALL BLITZ

Former Honorary Colonel of 1 Commando Regiment, the Hon Peter Collins OA QC was the special guest speaker at the St Marys march last weekend. Read more in our Anzac Tribute inside.

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SPECIAL ANZAC DAY TRIBUTE PAGES 18 -23. LEST WE FORGET

HONOURING THE BRAVE

O’Donoghues Irish pub in Emu Plains has bounced back incredibly quickly, to be sure, to be sure! Story inside.

Thursday, 15 December 2016

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IKEA MARSDEN PARK IS CELEBRATING THEIR FIRST BIRTHDAY WITH A SCAVENGER HUNT - PULL-OUT MAP INSIDE P23-26

BUSINESS AS USUAL

Don’t miss your chance to see the screening of the movie Broke at Penrith Hoyts on July 22, made by local film maker Heath Davis. Pictured here with Mark Geyer who will be the MC at the screening. Photo: Kennedi Geyer

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Gather round and spread the word. Your Penrith Panthers, on the back of a five-game winning streak, have qualified for their second finals appearance in three years, finishing in 6th position and will clash with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in the second elimination final this Sunday at Allianz Stadium. Credit: 77 Media.

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After eight weeks and one day under the loving care of Wellpet Vets Nepean, Lalor, the pup who was rescued near-death from a drain in Blacktown is finally going home with her new adoptive parents, Linda and Mark. Lalor’s recovery was funded by the generous local community; her journey has been a fabulous success!

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FROM FILLIES TO FOOTY

After a three year absence, Penrith is back in the State of Origin arena with the inclusion of fullback Matt Moylan (left) and winger Josh Mansour (right) for New South Wales. Credit: NRL Photos.

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NEPEAN NEWS WISHES ALL THE LOCAL MUMS A VERY HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

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PADDLING WITH PRIDE Penrith Mayor John Thain, his son Henry, sponsor Peter Davies and paddlers at a National Paddle Day held on Saturday to celebrate Breast Cancer awareness month. Story by Conner Lowe p28. Photo: Kennedi Geyer

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Tireless charity worker and well-known local identity Ross “Rossco” Hutchison has been named Penrith’s Citizen of the Year for 2017.

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Penrith CBD Corporation is encouraging residents to help boost our local economy and help our own small businesses by shopping and dining local this Christmas. Pictured: Cr Karen McKeown, Stuart Ayres MP and Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen.

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Penrith Cricket Club claims a dramatic last-ball 1 run victory to end fifteen year first grade title drought while premiership expectations among Panther fans are the highest they have been since 2004.

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It’s hard to believe the inexcusable horror this little man was subjected to. Day by day Bobby’s brightness is returning but there’s still a long way to go and you can help. Story: page 7

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Thursday, 17 December 2015

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL OUR READERS AND CLIENTS

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Merry CHRISTMAS May all ll your wishes h come true this h Christmas! h Pictured: d Anthony h Garofali f l from f St Marys. Photo: K.Arena Photography

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See pages 16-17 for more information on one of the most spectacular local gigs ever!

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OUR GIRL JESS AS the countdown begins for the Olympics in Rio, we’ll all be cheering on many Penrith-born-and-breds such as the lovey Jessica Fox. Story by Jarrod McGrouther on p13. Picture: Kieren Tilly

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WINNERS ARE GRINNERS 20 YEARS OF FUN Local brothers and owners of The Red Cow and O’Donoghues, Mario and Tony Falcone, are celebrating the big win of their racehorse, Divine Prophet which took out the Caulfield Guineas recently. Read the full story by Conner Lowe on p13. Photo: Tom Carey

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Lachlan and his mum Kathleen have spent some of the Christmas holiday period in the children’s ward of Nepean Hospital but there have been a few special Christmas surprises from all of the nurses in the ward. Read more on page 7. Photo: Kennedi Geyer

From the love of magic and circus, Kozi and Pinky started what they thought would be a little hobby 20 years ago.

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24

localnews

Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Mulgoa Senior School captains attend Parliament House Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP, welcomed 18 students from local high schools in Mulgoa to the NSW Parliament House for the ‘Mulgoa Senior School Captain Leadership Forum’ earlier this month.

The students had the opportunity to meet with The Hon Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Education, The Hon Brad Hazzard MP, Minister for Health and The Hon Sarah Mitchell MLC, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Early Childhood Education and Assistant Minister for Education to hear first hand about their journey into politics and what leadership is.

The forum is an annual event hosted by Tanya Davies to encourage senior school leaders to think about leadership in our local community.

“The forum is an opportunity to reveal the journey people take into leadership, how leaders tackle challenges, lessons they have learnt and principles they apply to life. It was also an opportunity to recognise the student’s commitment and dedication to their respective communities,” Tanya Davies said.

“The student leaders were highly engaged throughout the day and asked the Ministers and myself some thoughtprovoking questions,” Tanya Davies said.

Tanya Davies then gave the student leaders a personal tour of Parliament House before they sat in the gallery and listened to question time in the Legislative Assembly.

At the conclusion of the day a number of students said they now had an interest in potentially pursuing a public service role.

“It is important that our young leaders have opportunities to develop and expand on their leadership skills. I hope that the forum was of great benefit to these students and I know that they will continue to make a difference in our community,” Tanya Davies said.

SAMURAI SUDOKU INSTRUCTIONS Within each of the five 9x9 squares, each digit from 1-9 occurs once within each row, column and 3x3 block.

There is only one solution, and you can find it without guessing SOLUTION: 11th May

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SUDOKU: MEDIUM

26

World Currencies

SOLUTION: 11th May

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

AFGHANI ARIAYRY BAHT BALBOA BIRR BOLIVAR BOLIVIANO COLON DALASI DENAR DINAR DIRHAM DOLLAR DRAM ESCUDO

EURO FORINT FRANC GOLD CORDOBA GOURDE GUARANI GUILDER HRYVNIA KINA KORUNA KRONA KRONE KROON KUNA KWACHA

KWANZA KYAT LEMPIRA LEONE LILANGENI LIRA LITAS LOTI MANAT METICAL NAIRA NAKFA NEW CEDI NEW DONG NEW KIP

NEW SHEKEL NGULTRUM OUGUIYA PATACA PESO POUND PULA QUETZAL RAND REAL RIAL RINGGIT RIYAL RUBLE RUFIYAA

RUPEE RUPIAH SHILLING SOM SUCRE SYLI TAKA TALA TENGE TOLAR VATU WON YEN YUAN RENMINBI ZLOTY

The Best of Irish The Best of Country The Best of Rock’n’Roll

SATURDAY 27 MAY ...7PM

20th Anniversary Gaels Club

Vehicle Supplied by Penrith Toyota

In support of: Penrith Rovers Football Club

Al De Bene

Seamus McAlary

Joe Comino

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Saturday 3 June

26 August 2017 Chance to WIN

a Toyota Corolla in our Anniversary Raffle

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A play directed by Mitch Rist

James Joyce

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Saturday 15 July 2.30pm and 7pm

SUNday 16 July 2.30pm

Tickets available at the club: Non Memebers $25 • Seniors $22 • Members $22 • Senior Members $20

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LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10 MonDAY-FriDAY DINNER 5pm - 9pm

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FRIDAY 26 MAY - 8PM 2 WAY SPLIT

Saturday 27 MAY - 7PM SHAYLEE WILDE

SUNDAY 28 MAY - 8PM BLACK WATER

FRIDAY 2 JUNE - 8PM TIME MACHINE

Saturday 3 JUNE - 7PM BLACK WATER

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Blacktown Parade Day set for Wiggly good fun The Wiggles will wow audiences as part of their special free show to wrap up the 2017 Blacktown City Festival.

Anthony, Emma, Lachy and Simon will be live on the main stage on Saturday 27 May, from 1pm, performing all their famous Wiggly hits.

The free show is part of a packed program of entertainment for the Streets Alive and Parade Day, concluding the week-long Blacktown City Festival.

“I fully expect Wigglemania to seize Blacktown City as the Fab Four take to the main stage as our headline act this year,” said Mayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali.

“The Wiggles are able to pack out arenas across the world and tickets for their shows regularly sell out.

“Yet they will be here, in the heart of Blacktown City, performing for free at our fantastic Streets Alive and Parade Day.” The Parade Day starts at 11am on Main Street (near Warrick Lane), with over 60 floats and participants joining in the fun.

“The vibrant parade will travel through the streets of our CBD and is a spectacular display of colour and excitement with roving characters, floats and marching bands,” said Mayor Bali.

“There will also be performances from different cultures, a huge number of arts and crafts stalls, and food trucks.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to get into the CBD early and wander through the streets, which feature over 200 stalls filled with food, show-bags, handmade arts and crafts, toys and much more.

There will also be free amusement rides for the kids to enjoy.

There are five performance stages hosting incredible singing and dancing acts from talented locals.

This year there will be an opportunity to meet your favourite princesses and superheroes including

Belle, Rapunzel, Cinderella, Snow White, Batman, Superman and Spiderman.

Come and grab a bite to eat in the food truck and dessert section on the Village Green and skate around the ice skating rink.

For more information including dates and times or to view the full program, visit the Blacktown City Festival website at http://www.festival.blacktown. nsw.gov.au or call Council on 9839 6000.

Event details: When: Saturday, 27 May Where: Blacktown CBD, Campbell Street Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm Cost: Free entry

Marching to the Beat of their drum The NSW Police Band returns to the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre for a morning of fabulous music to entertain and delight you. With multi-award winning vocalist Belinda Adams, the NSW Police Band will take you on a journey through the big Broadway hits, movie themes, orchestral and timeless classics with this repertoire of favourites.

This talented and versatile group of musicians, directed by John Saunders, will present an irresistible program of all-time greats that will have you humming all the way home.

The NSW Police Band was established in 1895 and is the longest standing concert band in Australia. It operates as a full-time unit with professional musicians who are employed as Special Constables.

The band is an external organisation however continues to maintain a significant link in the ceremonial and social activities and is a high-profile public relations unit of NSW Police supporting community and multicultural based Policing activities throughout the Sydney metropolitan and country

areas, helping to forge stronger links between the Police and the community.

The 33-piece Concert Band with vocalist performs at outdoor concerts, major recitals, concerts at schools, and collaborates extensively with charitable organisations.

The big band beats have set the tone for numerous ‘Ticker Tape’ parades - Australian Cricket, Hockey and Rugby Union teams and Commonwealth and Olympic athletes - and as a marching band for ceremonial and parade activities.

Parades include Police graduations and award ceremonies, State Government protocol events, Anzac Day and Remembrance Day. The NSW Police Band’s performance is part of The Joan’s Morning Melodies program and ticket price includes morning tea from 10am. Tickets are available at The Joan – but you’ d better march in quickly as tickets always sell out for this show-stopping performance!

Tickets on sale at www.thejoan. com.au or at the Box Office phone, 4723 7600.

All tickets $20.00 and include morning tea.

29 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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30 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Comedy festival promises lots of laughs

(MC) Dave Callan Buckle up Penrith, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting The Joan to deliver the freshest and funniest from Australia’s largest comedy festival!

With an all-killer, no-filler cast of Australian stars, talented newcomers and international performers they’ve got all your comedy bases covered.

Featuring everything from standup to sketch, slapstick to song, each individual line-up presents the best of the Festival in one hilarious show.

The original and STILL the best: arrives Tuesday 6 June 7.30pm to kick start winter with some big laughs. This year’s line-up is bound to hit your funny spot!

Adam Hess

n Mandy Nola

Dave Callan (MC) – Dave Callan a performer who can get the job done and take the night to a new level.

Adam Hess – A stand-up comedian and general cheeky-guy from Londongood quality gags per minute, there is no better comedian’★★★★The Independent Mandy Nolan – A true renaissance woman: a self-proclaimed expert on all matters feminine. Mandy Nolan is a funny woman - her humour is sharp, honest, sometimes self-depreciating, somewhat outrageous, but never cruel or pretentious.

Sam Taunton – One of Australia’s premier, self-appointed yarn men recently listed by Pedestrian as one

inha Dilruk Jays

n Sam Taunto

of the 20 hottest picks of the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, still owes his Mum $728 in E-Toll fees after last year’s MICF Roadshow tour.

Dilruk Jaysinha – Failing his parents stereotypical dream for him, unceremoniously fired from his accounting job - scientifically proven to have a height problem not a weight problem”– a well-rounded performer (no pun intended) “It is a wonder how the roaring auditorium found any time to remember to breathe.” 9 Inch Tales, Malaysia The MICF Roadshow always sells out so don’t forget to grab your tickets

now! Tickets available online the joan.com.au or the box office 4723 7600.

TICKETS Standard $45 Concession $40 Or subscribe & save!

DURATION: 135 minutes (includes 20 minute interval) WARNING this show is hilarious!

AUDIENCE ADVICE: Performances often contain coarse language, sexual references and material that can offend. It is recommended for people aged 15 years or older.

Please note lasers are often used to enhance the lighting.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Villains (6) 4 Huge (8) 10 Indeterminate (9) 11 Hindu loincloth (5) 12 Locations (5) 13 Bursting inward (9) 14 Congested (7) 16 Accomplishes (4) 19 A Sicilian volcano (4) 21 A deadly poison (7) 24 Unqualified (9) 25 Fixes (5) 26 Female domestics (5) 27 Immobile (9) 28 An equestrian sport (8) 29 Stellar (6)

solution 11/5/17

DOWN 1 Backpack (8) 2 Strong drive for success (8) 3 Boundaries (5) 5 Flavorless (7) 6 A nearby galaxy (9) 7 Hot and humid (6) 8 Cower (6) 9 Incarnate (6) 15 Certain posts in a fence (9) 17 A vivid red (8) 18 Conch or clam (8) 20 Walking leisurely (7) 21 Ointments (6) 22 Darkened (6) 23 Not idle (6) 25 Relocates (5)

Exhibition wins prestigious national award Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest has won a prestigious MAGNA (Museums and Galleries National Award) at the Museums Australia National Conference 15 May 2017.

The MAGNAs recognise excellent work nationally in exhibition, public programs and sustainability projects across five award categories. The Gallery won the Travelling and Temporary Exhibition category for the three-month exhibition and program of events for Gravity (and Wonder).

The award was given against some tough competitors including national and state galleries and recognises Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest’s commitment to delivering exhibitions and programs that are diverse, stimulating and relevant to our audiences, community and contemporary environment.

Gravity (and Wonder) marked the beginning of a long-term partnership between Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). The project collaborators were also joined by education partner Western Sydney University, bringing its Penrith Observatory and academic expertise into the project alongside citizen science events to intrigue the community.

Gravity (and Wonder), curated by the Gallery’s Director Dr LeeAnne Hall and MAAS Curator Katie

Dyer, brought together rare scientific instruments and inventions, specialist objects and archival material from the MAAS collection alongside the work of contemporary artists who examined gravity as phenomena

and effect, mass and attraction, motion and acceleration, time and space and – ultimately transcendence.

Dr Lee-Anne Hall said “Katie Dyer and I were delighted to accept

the award on behalf of the Gravity Project team at both Penrith Regional Gallery and MAAS. To be recognised in front of our peers is an honour. We look forward to our next institutional partnership in 2018”.

Creative Designs Services Include: ❁ Magazine & Newspaper Design ❁ Business Stationery ❁ Invitations ❁ Flyers ❁ Banners / Posters ❁ Newsletters ❁ Signage

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31 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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nepeanhistory

Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

A Postman’s Son Son of a Postman

A

nyone who has read that old newspaper the “Nepean Times” would have surely read the vivid memories of “Japonica”. He wrote in the paper for nearly 25 years and those articles were all written from memory, his quotations always accurate and sometimes quite humorous. His name was James Richard Woodland. Born March 1849 to parents William Dennett (Snr) & Anne Woodland (Nee: Wood). He was baptised in St Mary Magdalene Church on the hill. His father William kept the post office in St Marys in the terrace opposite Albert Street (now Pages Rd) he died in 1882 and Anne died in 1879. In November 1875 James living in Inverell was elected one of the representatives for the Country Free Selectors Association for the formation of a central land in the Murray district that would be called the Murray District Free Selectors Association. James was one of 8 members of the St Marys Public School Board at the opening of the new school in March 1878. In 1883 he was living at 31 Taylor St, Surry Hills when he requested Auctioneers Price & Co of South Creek to sell the household effects from his late father’s “Park Hill” property situated a little distance out of St Marys and adjoining Robert Hamilton’s tannery. In May 1885 a public meeting held in the Protestant Hall in St Marys regarding the petitioning of the Government in favour of incorporation of the municipal Councils in the district. James and about 200 people attended the meeting. Also in May James was a cricket enthusiast and player wrote an article in the Times regarding the Queen’s Birthday celebrations at St Marys and in June he attended a banquet for John King Lethbridge he also attended the annual meeting in September for the South Creek Union Cricket Club at the Protestant Hall. Still living in Taylor Street he was fined £2 for non-attendance as a Juror at Darlinghurst Court House. In November he attended a preliminary meeting at the Commercial Hotel at St Marys to take into consideration the advisability of establishing a Mechanics Institute and after various suggestions it was agreed that a public meeting would be called. The next year James was the Committee Secretary for the annual bullock roast and sports day at Victoria Park and October of that year he was voted Hon. Secretary at a meeting for a new platform at the Cross Roads (Kingswood) that was promised by Thomas Richard Smith and by November it had been approved and tenders were being called. James wrote a letter to the Times and at that time he was living at Lincoln vale, Cross Roads. January 1887 saw James the “Master of the Track” in a sports day in Penrith and in February he was one of the joint Secretaries at the Testimonial for J R Smith Esq (ex-member for Nepean). He acted as a Referee at the Mulgoa Sports Day. In May he was at the Nepean Times Office advertising the sale of a cottage & land at Frogmore. September 1887 he attended a lecture the Temperance Hall and at this time living at his residence “Lincolngrove”, Frogmore. In June 1888 James married May Hockey of Mulgoa at S. Luke’s Church in Burwood and in 1892 while living at Underwood Street Botany a daughter was born. James

continued his district duties where in 1893 & 1896 he was a judge in the leather section of the Nepean District Agricultural Horticultural and Industry Society. James had been ill since 1886, but only his friends had any idea that he suffered from sciatica that gradually grew worse, and it was while in this condition and getting about at his home “Lincolngrove” on crutches that he fell and broke the paralysed leg and in 1894 he leased “Lincolngrove” for three years to Mrs Ramsay and family and moved back to Botany, where in November he attended the first Tanners & Currier’s Picnic at the holiday resort of Joseph Banks Grounds at Botany. In 1895 he was in Andrew Thompson’s Cricket Team (4 runs not out) at the St Marys Union Cricket Club match in Victoria Park and he always tried to attend the annual “Old Buffers” Cricket Match and Banquet and managed 1896, 1897, 1900 when James was in attendance (and feeling much better) at the banquet for the Buffers at the Volunteer Hotel. He missed the 1901 banquet but managed the 1902, 1904 and 1906 at the Protestant Hall. September 1896 saw James attend a meeting regarding the re-opening of the Mechanic’s Institute that had been closed for many years. Also at that meeting there was talk of forming a Rifle Club at St Marys. James at this time was living in Botany. In March, 1898 the partnership of John Bunce and James dissolved as tanners at Underwood Street, Botany under the name of Bunce & Woodland with John Bunce going alone. In that year at the age of 49 a surprise party was held at his residence in Botany where 60 couples wished him every success adjourned to the large two-storey shed built in connection with James’ new “Federal” tannery, the architect being Mr Sykes of Penrith. The tannery was opened in October and christened by his daughter now aged six. James took ill in 1899 and was living with his family at Andrew Thompson’s home (a relative) but by December his health improved so much that he was able to return to his home at Botany where in 1900 he was named a new Justice of the Peace. In 1901 he moved back to Penrith Hill (Kingswood Heights) near Kingswood to recuperate where he was much improved and except for his lameness appeared to be almost himself again and at the 5th Annual exhibition of the St Marys’ Agricultural Horticultural and Industry Society that year James won an award for poultry. He attended the wedding of Ida Garner to Archie McLachlan at St Mary Magdalene with the wedding party at the Protestant Hall, also he attended the wedding of Percy Elias Herford to Mabel Agnes Neale at St Mary Magdalene Church with reception again in the Protestant Hall. James died at his residence “Lincolnvale” in 1906 at the age of 57 and is buried at St Mary Magdalene Cemetery, St Marys.

His wife May died aged 84 years at her residence at Osbourne Rd, Lane Cove and at a private funeral she was cremated at the Northern Suburbs crematorium and her ashes returned to St Mary Magdalene cemetery with James.

Sources: Trove, Nepean Times, BDM website, Woodland Coat of Arms Lyn Forde – Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

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The Royce @ Panthers Penrith ground breaking ceremony

The official ground breaking ceremony for the new The Royce @ Panthers Penrith Retirement Living development, was held on site last Tuesday. This new landmark will include a luxurious offering – Stage 1 of The Royce will comprise of: - 52 Independent Living Apartments; (Already - nearly 50% have been sold off the plan) - 128 Residential Aged Care Rooms including a dementia care wing and - 5 Star community spaces including beautifully landscaped gardens, roof terraces, Resident’s Lounge and extensive front of house services.

Plus, all the exceptional facilities Panthers Penrith has on offer.

The Hon. Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for WestConnex and Minister for Sport noted in his opening speech that The Royce@ Panthers Penrith was an example of Penrith’s major infrastructure development.

“Very few Clubs have moved to develop a retirement village adjacent to their club facilities, economising on the community infrastructure required as well as servicing their older members.

It is acknowledged, over the next nine years we are expecting a 91.2% increase in retirement age residents in Penrith. By 2027, the next 10 years, we’re expecting a 70% increase in residents aged 80+.”

Cr Tricia Hitchen, Deputy Mayor of Penrith said that the project is delivering the necessary infrastructure which is needed now, both in terms of: - meeting the diverse expectations of older people within our community; - responding to increasing demands for appropriate services and facilities to support older members of our community to remain healthy, active and independent; - job creation - 150 jobs for professionals, trades and labourers in the building development process; 150 ongoing jobs once The Royce

development is completed.

“Council is currently working with the NSW Government to improve the planning and funding of aged care services in Penrith. Supporting and linking state level initiatives for integrated planning and monitoring of services, and has an advocacy role in relation to the funding of enhanced services for older people in Penrith.”

Cr Hitchen said.

Mr David O’Neill, Chairman of Panthers spoke about the community value.

“Penrith Panthers prides itself on the valuable community services we provide and the relationships which have been formed over time with charitable organisations, not for profit businesses and initiatives aimed at improving Penrith City community living outcomes, for not only our loyal Members, who are the lifeblood of the Panthers, but, for the entire Penrith City community,” he said.

“The Royce Retirement Living Development is a major part of the evolution of Panthers Penrith, understanding and meeting the expectations of our older Panthers Members and those within our community, to be a part of the exceptional facilities Panthers Penrith has on offer.

“The Royce is the result of a unique collaboration between Panthers

Penrith World of Entertainment and Tulich, founded on a shared belief that retirement is the beginning of a new phase in your life, a time to make new friends, to discover new hobbies and to do those things you have always dreamt about. “ The Royce @ Panthers Penrith, official Brand Ambassador, NRL Living Legend, Mr Royce Simmons, also gave a speech at the Ground Breaking Ceremony.

“I am a true advocate for The Royce @ Panthers Penrith. It is an absolute honour to be The Royce, Brand Ambassador. The Royce is a wonderful Seniors’ Living Retirement development for both older Panthers’ members and those within our community, to be a part of the exceptional facilities Panthers Penrith World of Entertainment has on offer,” he said.

“The Royce Display Suite is in the foyer of Panthers Penrith. I drop by quite regularly to see how things are going.

“I’ve seen what The Royce will look like inside and out - impressive – this place even has its own movie theatre! Its walking distance proximity to Panthers Penrith World of Entertainment and Pepper Stadium guarantees residents will never be short of entertainment “Now I am definitely NOT going

to offer to have a beer with every one of you,” Royce quipped in reference to his claim following that infamous Panthers win, “but I look forward to a cup of tea with you in The Royce Display Suite … after we’ve turned the sod.”

“The Royce Seniors’ Retirement Living Development is the result of a unique collaboration between Tulich and Panthers Penrith World of Entertainment, with a shared vision which truly reflects our “Retire to Live” corporate philosophy.” said Bianca Tulich, Director Tulich.

“Over the past 30 years, Tulich has created, developed and master-planned innovative Seniors’ Retirement Living and Residential Care Home Communities in New South Wales.

Our goal is to deliver the best places that offer lifestyle benefits for senior residents and future generations.

“Tulich has worked in consultation with our partner, Panthers Penrith, Penrith City Council, Town Planners, Penrith City community and Calder Flower Architects who are renowned as specialists in seniors’ retirement living and aged care design - who have explored the optimum potential of The Royce site with architecture that has meaning and purpose, dynamism and balance, comfort and surprise, reliability and daring.

“The Royce @ Panthers Penrith has been designed for the modern retiree, who wants to enjoy an active lifestyle. Stage 1 of The Royce will be completed by December 2018.

“The development of The Royce@ Panthers Penrith is a new league in retirement living and is set to become Greater Sydney’s most envied retirement living development.

“Welcome to all our Future Residents of The Royce @ Penrith Panthers, which will be your special place to call home, in an unrivalled community that offers the most contemporary accommodation and invigorating lifestyle for older people.”

33 33 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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Big Australia - yes or no?

He Says........................... .........................She Says Yes! Australia needs people, we have massive shortfalls in our labour market and we are getting demographically older. We need to fulfill the available jobs and the new ones being created. We need to make sure there are people contributing to the economy to help those whose age means they can no longer be as productive as they could in their youth.

Ask any employer how hard it is to get skilled staff with a work ethic, you won’t have too many say it is easy. Have a look at what we are doing internally.

Australia has nearly full employment. There are pockets where unemployment, particularly youth unemployment is too high however if we were truthful we would see the main cause of this is attitude and education. We parents should shoulder most of the blame for the attitude as we unintentionally helped forge it.

When our parents and grandparents needed work they went

WIN!

to where it was - they didn’t wait for it to come to them. They had a work ethic and a goal to improve their lives without depending on others. As to education, our system is very good but it needs a fair bit of work to reinstall it near the top in the world. It is very short on teaching the discipline we need to get ahead in our lives.

Where our increased population comes from can be debated at length, but we do need them to come from somewhere.

Australia grew on the back of the Chinese, English, Italian, Lebanese, Maltese, and Vietnamese immigrants to name but a few.

They came for a better life, worked hard and made Australia a much wealthier country as a result. They also looked to the future for their families, have a look at the names at the top of the education honours list as a case in point.

Countries grow on the backs of the people, more backs help share the load.

No! Our cities are already what I’d consider overpopulated considering the infrastructure we have - more people may mean more taxes being paid to support infrastructure down the track, but who is to say that an enormous increase in population would equate to those new residents becoming tax payers? The risk is we could end up with a huge impact on our welfare system and still be lacking in infrastructure.

So we have an aging population problem, an argument that insists that people are living longer and we therefore need an increase in younger tax contributing Australians to carry the load or there wont be enough money to cover the aged pension. Excuse me, but isn’t that what compulsory superannuation was set up to address?

And if the loads of young to middle aged workers that will now receive a super payout when they get to their sixties (or 70!)

isn’t enough, and we still need to increase our population in order to carry the load of our increasing aging population, wouldn’t it make more sense for this increase to come from Australian births rather than adult people already heading towards the “aged” bracket?

Now before I get the “racist” tag thrown at me I agree that Australian immigrants have made a wonderful contribution to our society. But I believe that has worked well because the numbers have been managed and therefore integration into Australian culture has been encouraged. Open the doors too wide and you tip the scales to the other angle - and those of us who love the Australian culture will be encouraged to integrate to a new culture created by the new majority.

To quote the words of a famous John Williamson song, “Hey true blue, don’t say you’re gone - say you’ve ducked out for a smoko, and you’ll be back later on.”

Who do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to win a table for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant including dinner and show.

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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38

sport

Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Penrith youngster selected to represent Australia

By Conner Lowe

It’s never an easy task to be selected for representative basketball and while still studying at high school Chloe Bloom has been selected in the U/17’s Australian basketball squad. Chloe is currently in year 11 at Broughton Anglican College and will soon have the chance to play for her country.

Chloe currently plays for Penrith Panthers basketball as a centre in the U/18’s girls team. Although Chloe has only played basketball for four years, she has already been selected to represent NSW in the Metro team competing in a national competition at U/16’s and U/18’s. Now on top of that she will have the privilege to do what many athletes struggle to achieve and that is represent your country.

Chloe spoke about the moment she found out about her selection in the Australian squad and how emotional she felt.

“My mum sent me a text message at school and I burst into tears whilst sitting in class. My teacher and friends were concerned, but I said it’s tears of happiness. I couldn’t believe it. It felt quite surreal and I thought

Photos: Noel Rowsell

my mum must have misread the information,” she said.

Chloe will try and impress with her time in the squad to cement her spot in the team and impress in the Oceania Tournament. The tournament is scheduled from the 9th-16th of July, which is the first phase of the qualification for the 2019 FIBA Under 19 World Championships. The

team will go through a two-phase qualification system, first through Oceania, then through Asia.

Chloe spoke about what she wants to achieve in basketball and her dreams for her future in the sport.

“I’d love to gain a scholarship as a Student-Athlete to a College in the USA to study Sports Psychology or Criminal Psychology. I want to gain

my degree whilst playing a sport I love. Ultimately, I would love to play for the Opals one day. That would be my dream come true,” she said.

Nepean News would like to congratulate Chloe on her selection and wish her good luck on her trip to Guam with the Australian squad, and all the best in her future endeavours.

MG Cup to promote good behaviour in schools

By Conner Lowe

The MG Cup is a competition that runs for western Sydney high schools and allows students to participate in a sport they love playing. The MG cup focuses on getting students from schools in western Sydney to attend school and be well behaved students which then allows them to play Rugby League through the week.

Mark Geyer is the founder of the competition and came up with the idea to help students who aren’t necessarily the best behaved or struggle to attend school and give them a reason to behave and come to school. The students then have something to look forward to each week, but to participate they must have been well behaved and attended school for most of that week.

Mark spoke about the competition and gave his views on the idea and concept behind the competition and why he wants to promote the competition. “Rugby League is one of the things in life that I really enjoy, it’s a good distraction from breakfast radio, an enjoyable distraction, I enjoy going out and watching the boys play, which I will most weeks.

It’s the only competition in western Sydney, especially Penrith area, with

the concept that you must behave at school to play,” he said.

“This year the 14’s and 16’s will get a chance to walk around Penrith stadium. Whoever wins the 16’s competition and whoever wins the 14’s competition, will go see Penrith play Manly in round 17 and walk around the oval with the school banner displayed in front of the crowd at halftime. So, that’s something to

aim for, but the main thing is we play Rugby League because we want to have fun and we want to play with our mates,” he continued.

Mark spoke about the behaviour in the competition between the schools and what he hopes he can do for the students. “We have had no incidents in this competition, something that is rare in school boy rugby league and I thank the teachers for that. Sometimes

the best rugby league players don’t make the best students, but we are here to make these young men good students before they get the right to play rugby league and now it’s working well,” he said.

The competition will concentrate on allowing the students to have a good time, while making them appreciate the sport they love and helping them towards a better future.

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39 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

sport

Celebrity

ROUND 12

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BUL PAN

May 26 7.50pm

May 27 5.30pm

May 27 7.30pm

May 28 4.00pm

June 2 6.00pm

June 2 7.50pm

June 3 3.00pm

June 3 5.30pm

June 3 7.30pm

June 4 2.00pm

June 4 4.00pm

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120 Lauren Fitzpatrick - Penrith Valley Prestige Cleaning - 0415 166 306

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116 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

104 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

116 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

104 Tricia Hitchen - Deputy Mayor - 0417 365 313

104 John Thain - Penrith City Mayor - 0411 427 812

98 Jeff WatsonBenard - Club Bratusa President, St Marys Band Club - 9623 1211 Councillor

110 Aaron Tyres- -Venue @printManager, Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4466 Iris Russell

96

TIPSTERS ROUND 12

ROUND 13

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Repeat Sets with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

BACK-TO-BACK WINS PUT THE PANTHERS BACK ON TRACK Amazing what a few wins could do for Penrith’s confidence after finding ways to comeback from serious halftime deficits as the Panthers’ poor starts to games continue on.

Since Round Seven, the Panthers have scored just one first half try, been held scoreless three times and have been outscored 88-8.

Cue the second half where in the past fortnight the Panthers have played committed and near perfect forty minute footy to conjure up two amazing comefrom-behind wins, the latest being last Sunday in Newcastle, overcoming a 14-0 deficit and the early departures of Peter Wallace and Bryce Cartwright to win 30-20.

In fact the Panthers since Round Eight have outscored their opponents 90-16 in the second half, earning them the “Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” tag.

As Matt Moylan confirmed after Sunday’s win over the Knights, as was the case at halftime against the Warriors, there was no spray from the coach as the team remained confident they could turn things around in the second half, but admitted they need to address their first-half performances sooner rather than later.

“We got ourselves into a situation that we’ve done over the past few weeks,” Moylan said.

“But I think the way we finished the game last week I think everyone was pretty confident that we would turn it around.

“Tightening up our defence definitely helped us and when we had the ball as well, we didn’t have to play that really expansive game of footy to get us back into the game.

“We were only two tries behind so that first one (we scored) probably gave us the confidence to get ourselves to play direct and a bit simple.

“When we strung a few sets together back-to-back and build a bit of pressure down their end and with our finishes we were able to score points.

“I’m not too sure why we’re getting on the back foot in the first halves of our last few weeks but we have to work on our starts and address that at training and fix it up.”

Matt Moylan’s recent form surge continued, culminating with his first NRL career double while Trent Merrin and James Tamou led from the front, with season-best performances.

Merrin played 80 minutes for the first time this year and was arguably the man-of-the-match, making over 200 metres, topping the tackle count and offloading at will, including a pearler to Moylan

 Who will replace the injured Bryce Cartwright at FiveEighth? Credit: 77 Media.

that kick-started Penrith’s second-half fightback, while Tamou capped his finest game as a Panther to date, bringing up his first NRL try for the club.

The Knights win came just a week after Penrith lifted themselves off the canvas to record their biggest comeback win since that amazing 23 point win over the Wests Tigers in 2000, when they overcame a 28-6 halftime deficit to record a remarkable 36-28 win over a stunned Warriors outfit (not to mention eleven thousand plus home fans, many of whom booed and reached for the exit gates at halftime).

Whereas in previous weeks the Panthers had kick-started their games at the sixty minute mark, the Panthers pressed the go button early on in the second half, producing the almost perfect 40 minutes of footy, completing all but one of 24 sets and missing just seven tackles in defence.

In scoring 30 unanswered points, the Panthers avoided what would have been six straight losses for the first time since 2001-02, with Isaah Yeo (1st career NRL double), Matt Moylan and Trent Merrin leading the way.

Panthers coach Anthony Griffin said there was plenty of calmness and confidence in the dressing room at halftime despite conceding the biggest lead at home since 2003.

“It’s just about everyone settling down and realising what we had to do on the field in the second half,” Griffin said post-game.

“We had to be clean with the ball and strong defensively and we’ve had some points in us.

“We knew we had that in us but we’re always talking about winning the game at halftime, we weren’t giving it up.

“We’re just finding ways to get a long way

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belong on the scoreboard at the moment and it takes a tough team and a real team effort to come off the canvas like that.

“Whenever you are chasing a lead like that the hardest one to get is your first one, and to just get back on that role.

“We got that fairly early in the second half and once we held that first one, it gives you confidence and belief.

“It just felt that every set that was completed was helping us get through to the other side and we had a real team focus out there today.

“It took a while for us to get that momentum but once we did, I was really happy for the players.”

Despite conceding a late penalty goal to drop a competition point in their 26-all draw with competition front-runners New Zealand Warriors, sixth-placed Penrith head into the bye just one point outside the Intrust Super Premiership top four after gaining revenge for an early season loss to the Newcastle Knights with an emphatic 44-18 win, orchestrated by Te Maire Martin and Mitch Rein.

David Tangata-Toa’s Holden Cup side has seen their nine-game unbeaten run come to an end last Sunday against Newcastle 28-22, having accounted for one-time NYC powerhouse, the Warriors the week before, 38-16.

The loss sees Cronulla take over as competition leaders albeit on for and against from Penrith.

This week, Penrith have the bye in all three grades before a crucial clash with the Bulldogs looms the following Sunday at ANZ Stadium. The Bulldogs don’t have the bye and will have three players – Brett Morris, David Klemmer and Josh Jackson backing up from Origin but will be almost certainly boosted by the inclusions of Josh Reynolds and Will Hopoate for the clash.

For Penrith some important selection issues have emerged with the likely availability of Josh Mansour, offset by the need to replace Bryce Cartwright (knee) and Peter Wallace (groin) while James Fisher-Harris is set to remain sidelined through injury.

A win over the Bulldogs will remarkably see Penrith enter the halfway point of competition in the same position as last year with five wins, seven losses – and we all know what happened from there.

See you at the game. #PantherPride

Coach’s Corner Loyalty to Losing

It’s that time of the year again…

Origin selection time and with the dawn of a new series breeds hope of a Blues revival after losing 10 of the last 11 State of Origin series. The only series we have won in that period was in 2014 where the Maroons lost Cooper Cronk early in game 1 and he missed game 2 with a broken arm. My confusion lays in the selection policy we currently employ as we hold a sense of loyalty towards our players, because that’s what Queensland do.

We are quick to forget the Maroons have a lot less players to choose from and it becomes a very simple equation to select a team based on loyalty when they have ran through the Blues with ease for more than a decade.

So what are we loyal to? Losing?

From a coaching perspective it goes against the fabric of a coach’s integrity to consistently ignore players who are knocking down the door displaying outstanding form for their club. Think Tariq Sims in 2012 form player and not selected, Blake Austin in 2015 who was consistently causing nightmares for opposition teams but again was not

selected. In 2014 Mitchell Pearce was overlooked for off field discretions yet his halves partner James Maloney was also overlooked despite having just led the Roosters to the 2013 Premiership.

In 2016 the change came too late after the same old faces were swept in the first two games and the changes came for the dead rubber.

The time has now come for the loyalty policy to hit the bottom of an otto bin. It has not worked and makes zero sense. Laurie Daley must pick his team on form and here are the 17 players who in my opinion have demonstrated the form necessary to do the job come State of Origin Game 1 at Suncorp Stadium next Wednesday: 1. James Tedesco: Is playing in a team who are struggling but he has the speed and footwork to cause the Maroons some defensive headaches.

2. Jarryd Hayne: I am not confident enough in his defence to select him at centre but would be more than happy to see him on the wing and he always delivers for his state.

3. Josh Dugan: Was exceptional in the test match against the Kiwis at

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centre and is solid defensively.

4. Jack Bird: Has great utility value, solid defender and a very strong ball runner.

5. James Roberts: I am with Wayne Bennet in that the Blues would be mad not to select this bloke, he has speed to burn and almost always beats his opposing defender 1 on 1.

6. James Maloney: Easy selection, plays straight and direct with a solid kicking game. Gives away a heap of penalties which concerns me a little.

7. Mitchell Pearce: If he isn’t, he is close to the form halfback in the competition. Needs a 9 who will give him early ball and let him run the side (Anyone but Robbie Farah).

8. Paul Vaughan: Form prop in the competition and if we were ever going to pick a player on form then he is it!

9. Nathan Peats: I will preface this by saying I would be happy to see Cameron McInnes selected also. Peter Wallace will miss due to injury and I have seen enough of Robbie Farah.

10. Andrew Fifita: He can be a goose off the field but I feel that is beginning to change. He is dominant and has a

great offload, needs to keep his cool and be disciplined.

11. Boyd Cordner: Great lines, solid defender and is my captain.

12. Wade Graham: Great versatility and ball skills. Will ensure Cooper Cronk lands on his backside at least a dozen times each game.

13. Tyson Frizell: Big body, hard running and a solid defender who makes minimal errors.

14. Tyrone Peachey: Let him terrorise the Queenslanders for two short stints on the field. He can also slot to centre if we need to move Bird into the halves / hooker in case of an injury. If Daley doesn’t carry a utility I would select Jordan McLean in this spot as another prop.

15. Jake Trbojevic: Excellent defender in the middle of the field, has a solid carry with minimal errors in his game and can cover prop and lock.

16. David Klemmer: Big body for two short sharp and aggressive stints on the field.

17. Josh Jackson: Can cover the middle and the edge, runs great lines and tackles everything that moves.

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Sports Scenes

(With Thanks to 77 Media)

The cameras of 77 Media were finally back home at Pepper Stadium to bring you all the colour and action from the Indigenous Round and that remarkable comeback by the Panthers.

Fans were treated to a special pre-game indigenous ritual.

Matt Moylan let everyone know who’s the boss...

Penrith fans turned out en-masse despite the timeslot and the team’s indifferent form....

Isaah Yeo turned in possibly his finest game in the top grade.

Including the victorious Penrith Panthers Tarsha Gale Cup winning Under 18s women’s team.

While Leilani Latu looks to be back to his devastating best with ball in hand.

43 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

WALLACE ORIGIN BLOW HEADLINES NEW PANTHERS INJURY CRISIS A grade two adductor (groin) tear suffered in just the early in Penrith’s come-from-behind win over Newcastle has cruelly denied Penrith hooker Peter Wallace what would have been a remarkable return to the Origin arena for the first time since 2009.

When you consider what he has been able to overcome since returning to Penrith, there arguably wouldn’t have been a more deserving Panther of Origin selection in 2017.

Two knee reconstructions, family loss and ongoing speculation over his future at the club after losing the captaincy at the hands of incoming Panthers coach Anthony Griffin, had plenty questioning Wallace still had a future in the NRL. But that James Segeyaro arm injury in Round One proved to be the turnaround in Wallace’s career, with his move to hooker so unexpectedly successful, it eventually resulted in the early departure of the 2014 Hooker of the Year.

And of course less than 18 months later Wallace was set to play for NSW until the footy gods intervened early last Sunday afternoon, with the hooker set to be side-lined for between 2-4 NRL games and possibly all three Origin games.

Wallace’s injury headlines a sudden spate of injuries to rock the Panthers in the past fortnight.

James Fisher Harris’ horror 2017 continued when he tore his hamstring against the Warriors, in a season where he has already suffered calf, shoulder and cheekbone injuries.

In fact there are now suggestions that the Kiwi forward may be eased back via the Intrust Super Premiership to find some much needed matchfitness and confidence, given his luckless start to the 2017 season.

Bryce Cartwright’s season also continues to go from bad to worse, having now suffered a lateral tear to his MCL which could require surgery, which if the case could see Penrith’s preferred five-eighth option sidelined for 2-4 games.

But in some bright news, Josh Mansour is set to return after the bye for next Sunday’s clash with the Bulldogs, who will now feature Will Hopoate after he ended his self-imposed ban from playing footy on Sundays.

While Isaah Yeo (ankle), who was never

NRL backline should Moylan move to 5/8.

Also congratulations to Dean Whare who has finally joined the “100” club having reached a century of first grade appearances in last Sunday’s win over Newcastle.

 Injury has cruelly denied Peter Wallace a deserved Origin recall. Credit: 77 Media.

considered a realistic chance of playing last Sunday, is also likely to return after the bye.

Losing half his spine will also force Anthony Griffin to make some critical team selections for next Sunday’s Bulldogs clash.

Will he give Te Maire Martin a second chance at five-eighth or does he make the hugely anticipated decision to put Matt Moylan in the number six jersey and play either Edwards or Watene-Zelezniak at fullback? Or will Tyrone Peachey fill in at five-eighth?

Will Wallace’s injury finally give Mitch Rein, arguably the form player of the ISP the chance to showcase his wares in the NRL for the first time since making his well-publicised move from the Dragons, or will it go to Sione Katoa?

Should Cartwright’s injury result in Moylan’s move to five-eighth, it could avoid a potential selection headache in the outside backs despite Mansour’s looming return should WateneZelezniak or Hiku move to fullback.

Speaking of Martin, Panthers coach Anthony Griffin confirmed he held talks with the Kiwi playmaker leading into last Sunday’s ISP game as the club continues to deny a release is imminent, after hosing down suggestions that Martin and his management had approached the club for a release.

The out-of-favour Kiwi five-eighth was one of Penrith’s best in their big 44-18 win, which also featured strong performances from Mitch Rein and Dylan Edwards, the latter a chance to come into the

Penrith’s indifferent start to the season have proved costly when it comes to representative honours with their big guns, Matt Moylan, Trent Merrin and James Tamou having all missed selection for game one of this year’s Origin series.

Despite Merrin and Tamou both playing their best games of the season last Sunday and Moylan’s recent form surge, it was to no avail as coach Laurie Daley continues to overlook the Australian lockforward while both Tamou and Moylan (18th man) have relinquished their spots in the 17.

Moylan could get a late reprieve and force his way onto the bench should Josh Dugan (jaw) fail to prove his fitness in time and be replaced in the centres by current bench utility, Jack Bird.

Some good news for Panther fans with the club expected to shortly announce the re-signing of highly-in-demand backrower Corey HarawiraNaera, who is said to have rejected offers from the likes of Cronulla, Melbourne and Wests Tigers to remain a Panther for 2018 and beyond.

Speaking of Wests Tigers, the recent signing of Russell Packer is expected to put paid to any chances Ivan Cleary had in recruiting Kiwi international, Peta Hiku given the well-documented off-field dramas between Hiku and Packer.

It may have gone unnoticed but Nathan Cleary continues to set all kinds of point-scoring records.

Last Sunday, the half bought up 200 points in just his 26th NRL game and became the highest point-scorer in Panther history after their first 25 first grade games (192).

Meanwhile his goal-kicking continues to go from strength to strength, having now kicked 22 goals straight and has not missed a goal since Round 4 and has missed just three shots for goal from 42 attempts thus far in 2017.

See you at the game. #PantherPride

MG on the mark with MARK GEYER

Heart-stopping games keep us on the edge of our seats

 Two Panthers hoping for origin action this series. Matt Moylan and Tyrone Peachey

The Sydney Kings basketball team used to be known as the ‘Cardiac Kids” such was the way they played; always either coming from behind or winning by the bare minimum. Well ladies and gentleman I give you rugby leagues new Cardiac Kids, the Penrith Panthers!

Talk about causing heart palpitations. Firstly a fortnight ago against the Warriors in giving them a 22 point head start to finally run them down for a stirring 36-28 victory, the clubs second best comeback of all time. I need a beer. Surely that won’t happen again against the Newcastle Knights the very week later?

Yep sure would. Down 14-0 nil at halftime against the current and last year’s wooden spooners, Anthony Griffin’s men couldn’t have played worse if they tried. Ground hog day, deja vu, reoccurring nightmare, call it what you may, but right before our eyes it was happening again.

And again the Panthers found something to fight back and finally win 30-20.

There are two common thoughts on the Panthers recent form.

A) If they had been playing any other teams in the past two weeks besides the Warriors and Knights things may have gotten ugly.

B) If they can arrest their current poor first 40 form there may be no team in the comp that can stop them.

I’m going with B.

 Great Walk Foundation walkers at Underground Coffee Roasters Penrith

With a much needed bye this coming round, the Panthers find themselves about to be on 10 competition points when on the flip side they, after 12 rounds, could have been right out of contention and anchored with the afterglow at the bottom of the NRL table on 4 or 6 points after the same amount of rounds.

The Panthers WILL come good, I just hope it is a tad more emphatic than the past couple of games.

Golden point...

Having no Panthers players in the opening game of this year’s State of Origin doesn’t come as any shock. But what it does do, is strengthen a team needing resolve in a period when most other teams are decimated because of origin.

And, there are still two more games to play where anything can happen.

And another thing....

As you read this we will be on day four of our 170km trek from Bathurst to Blaxland raising monies for those locally who need it most with the Great Walk Foundation. For any help or assistance you may provide at all go to www. greatwalkfoundation.com.au See you at the game!!

MG (random Westie) OAM

45 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

Merrin re-discovers his footy groove

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

He may have missed out on State of Origin selection but Penrith lock-forward, Trent Merrin is just happy to be playing good footy again and winning games with the Panthers again.

It’s no secret that both Merrin and high-profile signing, James Tamou have copped plenty of criticism for their inconsistent start to the 2017 season.

But in Penrith’s two recent wins, the pair have been outstanding in leading Penrith’s young forward pack from the front.

Merrin in particular, produced easily his best game of the season with an eighty minute performance that saw the Kangaroo forward make more than 200 metres, produce five offloads including one that enabled Matt Moylan to score the try that allowed Penrith to score 30 unanswered points and completed nearly 40 tackles for good measure.

Speaking to Nepean News after the game, Merrin admits that while it’s a performance he can build upon for the rest of the season, he isn’t too fazed by the criticism received to date either, adding that he more than knows what he and others within the team are capable of producing.

“It’s great. It’s something I can draw confidence from,” Merrin declared.

“I just need to build on that and play consistently and take it one week at a time.

“I don’t work really hard all preseason to start the season this way.

“You’ve got to take criticism with a grain of salt sometimes.

“We know what we are capable of doing and we’ve got the self-belief

 Trent Merrin’s 80 minute performance was a critical factor in yet another Penrith comeback win. Credit: NRL Photo

here in the team and the individuals within will play their best footy.

“We’re just building that consistency and self-belief now.

“I couldn’t be bothered listening to outside noise to be honest.

“It’s always going to be there, it’s a part of our game.

“But all we can do is put in results like we have and shut them down.”

Merrin admits however while there are plenty of positives to take out of the Panthers’ second half performances, the slow starts in the first half which has included three scoreless halves and just one try in five games, needs to be addressed.

“It’s not planned I’ll tell you that.

The positive is that we came out in the second half and we put it together but those first halves are still something we need to work on,” Merrin conceded.

“Every team has something they need to work on and that’s ours.

“While we can definitely draw confidence from that (producing faultless second halves) we just need to do our homework on those second halves and replicate it in the first.

“We’ll address that during the week and work really hard on that.”

Despite winning two games in a row, the spate of recent injuries to

Peter Wallace, James Fisher-Harris, Bryce Cartwright and Isaah Yeo means that the bye has come at a good time according to Merrin, who freely admits he is looking forward to some time out before preparing for next Sunday’s big clash with the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium.

“Definitely the bye has come at a great time. We can look forward to the week off ahead now we have two wins under our belt, being a four point game today and all,” Merrin said.

“We’ll enjoy the win and freshen up before we comeback the following week and start to do our homework on the Bulldogs.”

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Peachey: Penrith’s Mr Fix It

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

He’s the utility player that still hasn’t quite found a permanent position in Penrith’s 17.

Having played five-eighth, lock, second-row and even hooker, Tyrone Peachey finally seemed to have found a home at left centre in 2016 and again at the start of the season.

However the return from injury of Kiwi internationals Dean Whare and Peta Hiku coupled with mixed form and injury, has once again seen the City Origin centre play off the bench for Penrith.

But as Penrith begins to find form again, Peachey has fast become the team’s Mr Fix it in recent weeks.

Against the Warriors, Peachey’s injection into the game early in the second half proved to be a key factor in the Panthers’ amazing come-from-behind win, scoring the match-winning try.

Then last Sunday, Peachey earned a recall to the starting side, replacing Isaah Yeo in the back-row before reverting to the hooking role when Peter Wallace succumbed to that groin injury early in the match.

But if Peachey is disappointed in losing his spot in a position he had hoped to make his own despite the competition for outside back positions in 2017, he certainly isn’t showing it.

“I’m not disappointed. I’m still play the same style of game I always do but for now I’m just doing it from the bench,” Peachey told Nepean News.

 Tyrone Peachey fills in at hooker in Peter Wallace’s absence in last Sunday’s win over Newcastle. Credit: NRL Photos

“Whatever is best for the team I’m happy to do so.

“If that means I’m on the bench then on the bench it will be but I’ve got to keep on doing what I have got to do.”

It’s been a special past few weeks for Peachey, starting with selection as centre in the last ever City v Country match that was played in Mudgee, not too far from his home town of Wellington, which enabled his family the rare opportunity to see him play in such a game.

“It was good, my pop came which meant a lot to me as he hasn’t been doing too well of late so it was good to see him,” Peachey explained.

“My auntie and my godmother came across as well and they got to see my missus and the baby as well.

“It was so good to have everyone there and even more so because it was a good game to win, being the last one.”

Then ironically in the Indigenous Round, Peachey scored the match-winning try in Penrith’s epic 3628 win over the Warriors.

Whilst the significance of the try wasn’t lost on Peachey, he was more relieved to get the win for his side, while adding the team was always confident they could get the win provided they got on the scoreboard early in the second half.

“It was pretty special but I think I was more excited just to get the win,” Peachey declared.

“We always had hope that we were going to comeback.

“We are a pretty good attacking team so we knew if a couple of passes stuck that we we’re going to get back into the game and it ended up happening.

“We can take a lot of confidence from being able to score that many tries in a half.

“To comeback in a game like that and get the win is even better.

“We hadn’t won in a while leading up to that match and it’s good to get that winning feeling back again and hopefully we can keep that momentum going now.”

47 Nepean News 25 May 2017 Issue 201

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