Nepean News 25 October 2018

free Thursday, 25 October 2018

ISSUE 238

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Wipeout!

Air Force Cadets from Glenbrook joined Penrith Council at the weekend to wipeout graffiti from community facilities in St Marys. Cover story page 9.

Carolyn’s Guide to Retirement Living in Western Sydney Meet Carolyn, an expert with years of experience in the retirement living sector. Here she continues her column sharing insights and answers to the frequently asked questions people have about living in a retirement village.

Is location important?

The location of your future retirement village is an important factor when you decide to move. You should consider what amenities are in the area, if there are hospitals, specialists, transport etc. Even if you don’t need them now you may in the future. Moving to an area that you’re familiar with takes away a lot of the stress of moving. You can stay connected to the community you know and love, and this includes staying not only near your family and friends, it may also mean staying close to your local doctor, community groups and shopping centres.

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local news

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Playground paradise

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Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM pictured with Emma and Lily Dever enjoying the new flying fox at Lowery Reserve, Emu Plains.

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

ARKS have changed a lot since the obligatory razzle dazzle and slippery dip they offered when I was a child, and Penrith City’s latest new playground equipment at Lowery Close, Emu Plains is already proving popular with local families.

It even includes a flying fox!

And there are loads of them, did you know that there are 145 parks in the Penrith local government area alone?

Penrith Council’s rolling schedule of Parks Asset Renewal projects aims to keep all 145 local playgrounds safe and attractive, and there’s lots of new and exciting equipment on its way to parks across the region.

In 2018-19, they’re delivering new playground equipment in Cranebrook, Emu Plains, Glenmore Park, Luddenham, Mulgoa, South Penrith, St Clair, Wallacia and Werrington as well as upgrading Cook Park (with the help of students from St Marys Public School) and Mulgoa Park.

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Dianne Bonello 0418 813 319 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Hilary Nathan Media 0402 841 434 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

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Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

G

iddy Up it’s Melbourne Cup, the race that stops the nation.

I’m not very good at picking winning horses, but I do happen to have an extremely good record at picking political results, much to my husband Greg’s annoyance.

I have managed to cash in on some things that Sportsbet saw as long-shots - like a Trump win, a Hanson election and ScoMo as PM. I even predicted back in the Howard days that Tony Abbott would end up Prime Minister, and I predicted Cory Bernardi would split from the Liberals a good year before he did.

But my “never-fail” winning streak came to an abrupt end on the weekend when I put my money on Dave Sharma.

Yes there was a lot of noise about punishing the government - punishing both major parties in fact - and the popularity of Kerryn Phelps to consider.

But I still thought I knew my old electorate of Wentworth pretty well and expected a - perhaps narrow - win for the Liberals.

Wrong, wrong, totally wrong.

And while the result will be blamed on a thousand different things, depending on who you talk to, two things should be strikingly obvious.

The blindingly obvious lesson to be learned is if you are part of either major party you had better clean your factional wars up and unite as a team.

Make some compromises behind closed doors and emerge as a united front or you’ll be swept into oblivion by a household-name independent.

The second is a no-brainer. Four examples and yet the lesson has still not been learned. The electorate does not like their Prime Minister to be knifed.

It doesn’t matter if it is Rudd, Gillard, Abbott or Turnbull, voters can’t stand that caper.

They hate it and will not hesitate to take an eye for an eye and wield their own knife in retaliation.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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local news

By Noel Rowsell

S

t Clair & District Men’s Shed is holding a Men’s Health Seminar titled “We need to talk of men’s HEALTH and not just disease”on 29th October, in the Marsden Room at Mamre Homestead.

The Seminar commences at 10.30 am and will feature guest speakers Professor John Macdonald (founding Chair in Primary Health Care at University of Western Sydney and a Patron of The Australian men’s Shed Association) and Jay Allan from the Melanoma Institute of Australia.

Men’s Sheds are vitally concerned with the issue of Men’s Health and the St Clair and District Shed will also be offering other seminars at future dates.

“All local men are invited to attend on 29th October and a BBQ lunch will be offered after the two speakers have delivered their respective presentations” said Andrew Mooney, secretary of the St Clair & Districts Men’s Shed.

Professor Macdonald is the Director of MHIRC (Men’s Health Information and Resource Centre) and Foundation Chair in Primary Health Care at the Western Sydney University.

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Men’s Health presentation

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Member for Penrith

Born in Scotland, Professor Macdonald has 10 years experience in Zambia in Primary Health Care and education and has been a Visiting Professor of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Palestine, since 1994.

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local news

M

inister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres today announced a new $5 million Western Sydney Investment Attraction Fund to supercharge fastgrowing small to medium sized enterprises (SMES) in Western Sydney.

The exciting new initiative is the next component of the City Deal to be released which will see fast-growth SMEs in Western Sydney benefit from a range of financial support products from NSW Government agency, Jobs for NSW. “The game changing Western Sydney City Deal and the new Aerotropolis will create jobs and improve economic opportunities for all of Western Sydney,” Mr Ayres said.

“Western Sydney is already one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and it’s booming like never before – and the Western Sydney Investment Attraction Fund from Jobs for NSW will build on that foundation.”

The $5 million Western Sydney Investment Attraction Fund will offer Western Sydney-based businesses Jobs for NSW products that support innovative, fast-growing businesses including loans and loan guarantees.

Penrith City Council Mayor Ross

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

City deal delivers $5 million kick start Who Am I?

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???

?

A twin, I am pictured above with my sister Judith As a child I had polio and had to wear calipers, but I was one of the lucky ones

Fowler said the fund will enable the creation of high-value knowledgebased jobs of the future locally in Western Sydney.

“This $5 million fund will allow innovative businesses from across the City Deal Councils to grow and employ more people.

Western Sydney is set to become a new global economic gateway for the region, attracting

economic activity, new industries, commercial development and jobs around the Western Sydney Airport and the new $740 million health, research and education precinct at Liverpool Hospital.

Businesses interested in finding out more about WSIAF loan products: 1300 JOB NSW (1300 562 679). Jobs for NSW loan and loan guarantee products, visit jobsfornsw.com.au

While I spent some time in my early childhood at Bogan Gate, I later attended Penrith High My first job was opening a makeshift paper shop near Penrith railway

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Result on page 34

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news

Zoo2Zoo Ride for Black Dog Institute

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Black Dog Institute’s ‘zoo2zoo’ bike ride took place over 12th14th October, with over forty riders tackling the 430km route, which started at Taronga Zoo Sydney and finished two days later at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.

An early 5.30am start on Friday saw the riders en-route to Yarramundi for a brief refreshment stop, before another stop at Yellowmundee Park to view the spectacular Nepean River and Lakes.

The riders would continue up the mountain to Wentworth Falls for another pit stop, before riding on to Blackheath as the final destination for Day One, with accommodation at the Ivanhoe Hotel and a group dinner at Blackheath Golf Club.

Day Two began with a stretch of rolling hills, to be followed by the twisting descent into Lithgow and a stop at the “Tin Shed”.

The riders then headed to Bathurst and Orange, then to Molong for Saturday night’s stop.

Molong RSL was the venue for Saturday’s group dinner and a presentation from a representative

Three of the zoo2zoo riders negotiate the final bend before Yellowmundee Park

from the Black Dog Institure (BDI).

Day Three began with a 7am departure to Cumnock for breakfast, then on to Yeoval, followed by a 38km section of climbs, descents and picturesque scenery before arriving at the Wanbangalang Educational Environment Centre for the final refuel.

The final 30km stretch into Dubbo united all the disparate groups together as one peleton for the arrival at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Let the games begin in Penrith!

P

enrith is gearing up for a big week of sporting action this November when The Westfield Matildas return to Panthers Stadium to take on 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers Chile on Saturday 10 November, in what is expected to be a sell-out game.

The Westfield Matildas vs Chile match will headline a massive week of sporting action in Penrith including the NSW Golf Open Championship, 8-11 November and the Veterans Cricket Australian National Championship, 10-15 November.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM is encouraging locals to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

“The Westfield Matildas vs Chile

promises to be a thrilling clash between two proud sporting nations, and we’re lucky to be hosting this great event right here in Penrith,” Cr Fowler said.

“By attracting events like the Westfield Matildas vs Chile and the NSW Open, Council is further

cementing Penrith’s reputation as the home of world class events in Western Sydney.”

Visitors to our city will have plenty of time to celebrate before or after the game with kick off scheduled for 3:30pm. If you’re coming to Penrith, check out all of our adrenaline

attractions, mouth-watering foodie destinations or family friendly adventure experiences.

“Locals can also embrace the fun with our national women’s football team on their doorstep, being the perfect opportunity to invite family and friends to share the experience.”

“Tickets for the game are selling fast, I’d encourage locals and visitors to get their family and friends together and get their game passes before they’re gone.”

Tickets are available at https:// matildas.footballaustralia.com.au/ tickets, check out ‘Things To Do’ while in Penrith at visitpenrith.com.au to plan your perfect football weekend away.

Penrith bloke knocks off work 200k richer

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man in his 40s from Penrith decided to ditch work early last week after the revelation he won $200,000 in the latest Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw.

The Penrith resident won the guaranteed 1st Prize of $200,000 in Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot draw 1145, drawn on Thursday 18 October.

The man was hard at work when a NSW Lotteries official made contact with him late yesterday with the news of his win.

Keen to confirm the win for himself, the winner rushed to a nearby computer to double check his entry.

“That’s amazing! Bloody oath,” he exclaimed.

“The fact I’m sitting at my computer looking at it helps me believe it’s real. I can see it for myself.

“I’ve been keeping an eye on the Lucky Lotteries Mega Jackpot – it’s getting really high – but I’m really, really excited by this win. It’s awesome.

“I think work is done for the day. I might go have a beer now to celebrate!”

As well as winning the guaranteed 1st Prize of $200,000, the man’s entry also scored two consolation prizes of $1,000, bolstering his total win to $202,000.

The regular Lucky Lotteries player has already started formulating plans for what he could do with his surprise windfall.

“I’m going to put it to good use, that’s for sure,” he said.

“It’ll help pay off some of the mortgage and if there’s a little bit left over we might take a holiday or something like that.

“I’ll have to sit down and really think about it.”

The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased his entry online at thelott.com – Australia’s official lotteries.

COVER STORY

A

round 35 Airforce Cadets from the 323 Squadron at Glenbrook joined Penrith Council last weekend to remove graffiti from buildings and community facilities around the St Marys RSL. The work was part of the statewide Graffiti Removal Day held last Sunday, in which over 2000 volunteers removed graffiti from over 400 sites across NSW. Michael Bros, Commanding Officer, 323 Squadron described the event as a great success and fun way for his Unit’s members to make a

difference to the local community.

“This was a great opportunity for our members to improve the appearance of the local community and fight vandalism, while having fun.” Mr Bros said.

“It was also a chance for our members to see first-hand the impact graffiti vandalism has on our local community.”

“We estimate we removed about 300 square metres of graffiti. While we did not remove everything we have made a real difference.”

“The day would not have been possible without the NSW

Government, Dulux, Selleys, Techniclean, and Australian Rail Track Corporation and I would like to thank them for their support,” said Mr Bros.

He also pointed out Graffiti Removal Day was only part of the solution in the fight against graffiti.

“While the Day was a success in removing graffiti, it is important to remember it is only one day of the year, but the fight against graffiti continues throughout the year.

“To stop graffiti vandalism we need members of the community to report it as soon as they see it, by calling the

Graffiti Hotline 1800 707 125. This means it can be removed quickly, preventing vandals from getting any kind of exposure.”

“Besides reporting graffiti people can also suggest ongoing preventative measures such as murals or planting trees.”

People interested in suggesting ideas to prevent graffiti or volunteering their time to help remove graffiti on an ongoing basis are encouraged to contact Graffiti Removal Australia on either 1300 665 310 or info@graffitiremovalday.org.au or Penrith Council.

An Alice in Wonderland Celebration at Afford’s Annual Gala Ball

M

ORE than 800 Afford clients, their families and carers, Afford staff and VIPs jumped down the rabbit hole for this year’s Afford in Wonderland themed Gala Ball in Penrith.

Held at Penrith Panthers Marquee on 13 October 2018, the Afford in Wonderland Gala Ball transported attendees into a world of whimsy and magic with decorative features such as a full sized White Rabbit, oversized pocket watch, pink flamingos, mushrooms and more.

Now in its third year, the Afford Gala Ball is the only event of its kind in the disability sector that is staged purely as an opportunity for people with disability to celebrate in a formal setting with family, carers and friends.

Thanks to Afford’s Project Princess initiative, attendees were dressed in stunning formal wear and gowns generously donated by the Afford

community and general public.

Some attendees chose to get right into the theme by dressing to the theme as Alice in Wonderland, The Queen of Hearts, the Mad Hatter, and Tweedledee and Tweedledum.

Special performances on the night included a duet by Warren and Ricky Nifo from The Voice, as well as an Alice in Wonderland dance performance by You Can Dance dance school.

Steven Herald, Afford CEO, says that the Afford Annual Gala Ball is an opportunity for attendees to get together to celebrate and socialise with peers, family and friends.

“The Afford Gala Ball is a highly anticipated event for many of our clients.”

“It’s a great opportunity for attendees to get together with friends in a relaxed and supportive environment and just enjoy a truly magical night,” Mr Herald explained.

“The Gala Ball is staged for our clients and gives everyone the opportunity to shine.”

“Our Project Princess was again a great success with the general public donating clothes, accessories and hair and makeup services for clients attending the Gala Ball.”

“Our clients were brimming with pride and confidence as they arrived in their formal dresses and suits and really looking the part. We’re so honoured to be able to support our clients realise their personal aspirations,” Mr Herald said.

“Everyone at Afford feel so privileged to be part of our clients’ journey and we’re pleased to be able to hold an event, such as the Afford Gala Ball, to showcase the amazing achievements and successes of our clients.”

“Afford would like to thank the many Afford Supporters of the event, the

dedicated staff that tirelessly worked to make the evening a memorable celebration, and most importantly, we would like to thank the many Afford clients and their families and carers who trust Afford to be their disability support partner.”

The event was staged with the support of many generous sponsors including major sponsors, NAB and Livingstone.

Afford is a leading not-for-profit disability organisation that supports people living with disability across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in NSW for 65 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people across Sydney every day.

For more information about Afford, visit www.afford.com.au or call 1300 233 673.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Air Force Cadets wipe out graffiti in St Marys

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news

Bridge to be named Yandhai Nepean Crossing

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s final preparations for the opening of the new pedestrian and cyclist bridge across the Nepean River at Penrith are completed, the name of the new Western Sydney landmark can now be revealed.

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said the name has been selected after thorough consultation with the community and in time for the official opening on Sunday 28 October.

“I’m pleased to announce the new pedestrian and cyclist bridge across the Nepean River has been named ‘Yandhai Nepean Crossing’,” Stuart Ayres said.

“This name signifies the language of the Darug people who have strong traditional and historical ties to Western Sydney and the Nepean River as well as providing a clear geographical location of the bridge.”

The word ‘Yandhai’ used to describe the river, means walking in the path of past and present, and is reflective of story including the past use of the river by the Darug yura (person).

The word ‘Nepean’ identifies the location of this amazing bridge and ‘Crossing’ signifies the purpose of the bridge and the use of this location

Photos: RMS

along the river as a significant crossing.

“There is an almost spiritual connection between Penrith residents and the Nepean River, so to be able to bring the history of two great cultures together in the name of this new bridge is very special.” Stuart Ayres said.

Stuart Ayres said Roads and Maritime Services called for name suggestions in July this year ahead of the bridge opening.

“There was a strong response from the community, with more than 300 submissions received in less than a month,” “It’s not often the community gets the chance to suggest names for new bridges so this was definitely a once-

in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people.” Stuart Ayres said.

The community was encouraged to think about names which best described the bridge or had geographical, historical, community or local Aboriginal significance and they provided a wonderful range of suggestions.

A naming committee was formed to choose the future name of the bridge and they spent many hours deliberating on the best fit for this iconic piece of infrastructure.

Stuart Ayres said the new pedestrian and cyclist bridge will encourage the community to get active and make use of the excellent walking routes in the region.

“The NSW Government has worked

hard to deliver this project for the community and the ‘Yandhai Nepean Crossing’ will be a local landmark for the Nepean region for years to come,” Stuart Ayres said.

“I thank the community for their excellent suggestions and invite eveyrone to come along to the bridge opening to celebrate the new landmark at Penrith.”

The official opening will be held at 9.30am, 28 October at Memorial Ave, Penrith and registrations to attend the event can be made online at: https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/openingof-the-new-nepean-river-pedestrianbridge-tickets-50998165887 (* Yandhai is pronounced - Yan-di)

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

E

arlier this month, Police from Nepean Police Area Command responded to reports of a man armed with two knives who was allegedly threatening security officers at Nepean Hospital.

Police say the 54-year-old man allegedly attempted to stab an officer and was then shot by responding police.

He was treated at the hospital and was in a stable condition.

A critical incident team will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the discharge of a police firearm and will be subject to an independent review.

Following this incident and other hospital staff attacks in the past, Neurosurgeon and Spinal Surgeon, Dr Michael Wong sees the importance of advocating and promoting increased hospital security to protect the healthcare workforce.

He is someone who is well-placed to have a voice on this issue - he was stabbed 14 times at another

hospital by a mentally ill patient in 2014.

“Hospital security should not be overlooked in an era of tight health budgets. Entrances for hospital staff, restricted access to wards and regular security patrols of public areas are some of the measures needed to prevent repeat attacks,” Dr Wong said.

“More resources are needed to protect staff.”

Four years ago Dr Wong suffered life-threatening wounds all over his body within minutes of turning up to work.

“I showed up to work one day and was attacked by a mentally ill patient at the front entrance,” Dr Wong said.

Multiple teams of surgeons including two colorectal surgeons, two cardio-thoracic surgeons, a spinal surgeon and three plastic surgeons were operating for 10 hours to save his life.

Dr Wong bled profusely from a deep wound to his back, piercing one of his lungs. He lost his entire blood supply during surgery, which resulted in the partial removal of the injured lung to stem the bleeding.

When stabilised, he had intensive

treatment for many days in hospital before returning home to spend six weeks with both arms and hands in splints, followed by months of painful physiotherapy rehabilitation exercises to regain all movements in his arms and hands.

The near death experience has had a huge impact on Dr Wong’s life and changed him personally and professionally. The biggest significance of this experience is that

he has become a more compassionate doctor after experiencing treatment and recovery from a patient’s perspective.

“I don’t live in fear, but I am acutely aware that in the present day anybody can walk in with a weapon. We are just counting on the good nature of the public, but what are we doing about ensuring the safety of hospital staff, other patients and of course the person harming themselves?”

I spoke with Penrith MP Stuart Ayres following the Nepean Hospital incident.

“I applaud all of the staff at Nepean for their professional response to the incident. It was their ability to follow established and practiced procedures that prevented further harm to others,” he said.

“In 2016 a 12 point plan on hospital security was developed in response to concerns about violence in emergency departments. This plan was developed in consultation with unions and front line staff.”

“I have no doubt that without that prior planning and the professionalism of the Hospital staff, last week’s incident may have had a different outcome.”

Prue Car says 250 extra security staff under Labor

L

abor Candidates Karen McKeown and Todd Carney have joined with Member for Londonderry Prue Car MP to welcome NSW Labor’s commitment of an additional 250 security staff as part of Labor’s four-point plan to boost security at NSW hospitals to protect staff, patients and families.

Labor Leader Luke Foley was joined by Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes who says his “long-running campaign for greater security in hospitals has been met with silence from the Berejiklian Government.”

Ms Car said HSU members working at hospitals across the state have been subject to numerous attacks.

“The announcement comes as the latest official figures reveal that in the last 12 months there have been 21 assaults on staff, patients and families at Nepean Hospital,” Ms Car said.

“The Liberals have been sitting on their hands as violence increases in our state’s hospitals.”

Labor’s four-point plan includes: • Employing an additional 250 Health Security Staff in its first term; • Upgrading all hospital security officers to “Health Security Staff” with additional powers similar to Special Constables who can carry weapons such as pepper spray and batons; • Providing extra training for Health Security Staff, including skills to defuse hostile situations; and

• Creating a specialist Secure Hospitals Unit within NSW Health to oversee the activity of new health security staff and conduct safety audits of the State’s more than 200 hospitals - especially the State’s more than 80 emergency departments.

Ms Car said over the last five years assaults have increased by 33 per cent to around 50 every month.

“This is in part due to the prevalence of ice, drugs and alcohol in the community, as well as the Liberal Government’s failure to properly support patients grappling with mental illness,” she said.

Labor Candidate for Penrith, Karen McKeown said hospital security officers report of regular understaffing and often no security is present

at any given time in emergency wards or entire hospitals.

“The Berejiklian Government is refusing to take action to secure the safety of Nepean Hospital - so that patient care can come first,” she said.

Labor sources said they will be announcing further information on security staff closer to the March 2019 election.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

We need to protect those who save our lives

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news

The homeless people are no longer at Judges carpark

Photos courtesy of Christ Mission Possible

By KeRRIE DAVIES

E

VERYBODY who parked at Judges car park, Penrith, would have noticed that the number of homeless people gathering there had grown considerably.

It was hard to miss, with furniture items everywhere and an increase of citizens camped there. People were ringing our newsroom about it constantly, so I imagine government departments and council would have been flooded with calls.

Many car park users were talking about it, torn between concern regarding what the undercover parking station had turned into, worrying about their safety and a feeling of sadness for those who had no choice but to live there.

It is hard to voice a complaint about the state of an area where you park your nice warm car when it is occupied by people who are sleeping rough there on very cold nights.

But last week a united operation carried out by several community groups and support services came to a successful result - and the majority of the people have now been homed and the furniture and other household goods removed.

For over a decade CMP, Christ Mission Possible,

have been serving the community’s most vulnerable a hot breakfast every Monday, Wednesday and Friday out of Judges car park.

“Unfortunately we have witnessed a small group of people who do not represent our community’s homeless aided by misguided services turn Judges into a rubbish dump,” said CMP’s Martin Beckett.

“We are so pleased to have been involved with Penrith Council, Penrith Police, Housing NSW, Platform and Wentworth Housing to assist in restoring this space for public use.

“Over the last five weeks Housing NSW and our team at Christ Mission Possible have helped some of those caught up in the car park in to their own homes.

“I want to thank our Food Solutions team, Housing team, Vesna and Tracy from Penrith Council, Penrith Police and all those involved for making the impossible, possible.

“I also want to reiterate that the bad conduct and terrible behaviour of the very few people at Judges do not reflect our homeless community,” he said.

Penrith MP Stuart Ayres congratulated all involved.

“Thank you to the very professional team from Wentworth Community Housing, Family and Community Services, Nepean Police Area

Command, Penrith City Council, Christ Mission Possible, Platform Youth Services who worked for the last six weeks to make the cleaning up of Judges Car Park a success,” he said.

“This work shows that Penrith can look after vulnerable people at the same time as making sure public buildings remain safe for everyone to use.

Great work team!”

Senator Payne announces headspace funding boost

M

ental health care for young Australians is set for a $51.8 million funding boost.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the Government understands the huge mental health challenge facing many Australians, particularly young Australians.

“We’re committed to ensuring that Australians can get information, advice, understanding, counselling and treatment, when and where they need it,” Minster Hunt said.

“Within our funding injection for headspace, $39 million will go towards services and staff while $12.8 million will ensure headspace National can continue to run eheadspace so young people can access support when they need it.”

“The additional investment is on top of the $95.7 million per year we have already committed to the 107 headspace centres running across the country.” headspace has increased the number of services it delivers from around 259,000 in 2014/15 to around 382,000 in 2017/18.

Last year, approximately 33,800 young people accessed eheadspace.

“With an unprecedented $4.7 billion investment being made in mental health this year alone, our funding boost will help headspace meet the increasing demands for their services, today and in

coming years,” Minister Hunt said.

Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the Government’s extra investment in the national network of headspace centres and the digital portal, eheadspace, means young people will have access to around 14,000 additional services nationally, shorter wait times and extra clinical staff.

“We want young people to know they are not alone on their journey, and that we’re backing quality frontline support,” Senator Payne said.

“Our support for headspace gives young Australians across western Sydney a single entry point to friendly primary care that includes early intervention services and support for physical and mental wellbeing.”

“Locally, headspace Penrith is helping to make a positive impact for local young people, and I commend the professionalism and hard work of the staff.”

Around 560,000 children and adolescents are estimated to have mental illness, and one in four young Australians experience it in any given year.

local news

T

he summer fire and storm season is well upon us, and much of the state has already been declared to be in the Bushfire danger Period, a month earlier than usual.

A confronting new campaign has kicked off urging western Sydney residents to make sure they are prepared for the bush fire season.

Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said the new NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) ‘Prepare.

Act. Survive’ public awareness campaign asked the important question ‘How Fireproof Is Your Plan?’

“The message this bush fire season is clear: to give you and your property the best chance of survival you need to seriously prepare and plan ahead,” Tanya Davies said.

“Alarmingly, 51 per cent of people have done nothing to prepare their property for a bush fire.”

“So if you think you’re ready for bush fire season, there is a strong chance you’re not, and now is the time to have a discussion so you’re not caught out and put at risk.”

Minister for Emergency

Services Troy Grant said the campaign shows real life scenarios that people have faced during bush fires, like not preparing their property in advance or leaving it until the last minute to make a decision.

“The last thing anyone wants to see is the loss of someone in the Mulgoa community when that tragedy could have been prevented,” Mr Grant said.

NSW RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers said the new campaign will begin rolling out state-wide this week, with TV, radio, online, outdoor and cinema ads warning against complacency.

“Already this season we have seen more than 5,400 fires that have started easily and spread rapidly, threatening people and properties,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers said.

“Having a five minute discussion could actually save you and your family this bush fire season, so please, ask your friends, ask your family, and ask yourself: How Fireproof is Your Plan?”

By visiting www.myfireplan. com.au you can check your existing plan, print it off, and make sure everyone in your house knows what to do if there’s a fire.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Time to check: how fireproof is your plan?

13

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news

Nepean puppies set to reach their full paw-tential Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue invites pet parents to partake in its new Puppy School program

P

etbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue and Greencross Vets have teamed up to announce their new Puppy School program. Local Nepean puppy parents are invited to register their furry friends for a five-week training course designed to give their little buddy the best start in life.

With almost 100 Petbarn locations across the country offering Puppy School, this behavioural pet program teaches Nepean puppies basic obedience and commands such as sit, come and stay, toilet training, communication skills, and how to appropriately socialise with people and other dogs.

Taught by experienced trainers from Petbarn and Greencross Vets, Puppy School will give your four-legged friend the skills they need to become a friendly and social pooch, and in turn equip you with the knowledge of how to read your dog’s cues and behaviours.

Emily Cramer, Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue Store Manager says: “Sadly, 80% of dogs under the age of one that are surrendered to pet shelters are done so due to behavioural problems. Nepean dog owners need to know that these behavioural issues are preventable by investing time and energy into appropriate training in the early stages of a puppy’s life.”

“That’s why we have developed our very own Puppy School program in collaboration with Greencross Vets to help ensure every puppy is given the chance to put their best paw forward in life. Our Puppy School program will not only teach puppies

vital socialisation skills and help them develop into clever and obedient dogs, but will strengthen the bond between pet parents and their pets,” says Emily.

“We want all of our graduates leaving our Puppy School as well-mannered members of the family and cannot wait to educate and teach Nepean puppies and owners alike,” says Emily.

Nepean residents will be able to enrol their young pooches in Petbarn’s Puppy School with the confidence that they will be receiving the best possible training, with all courses created and approved by accredited Greencross Vets.

“Correct training from an early age will set your puppy up as a loyal companion and friend well into their senior years. Socialisation skills in the first few weeks of a dog’s life sets the standard for their behaviours as adult dogs. That’s why we strongly encourage new puppy owners to take part in formal training to ensure they are brought up in a positive and supportive environment,” says Dr Rachel Chay, Chief Veterinarian at Greencross Vets.

Petbarn’s Puppy School caters to puppies between 8 and 16 weeks old who have had at least one vaccination 2 weeks prior to their first group class.

Registrations are open now and spaces are limited, with a maximum of eight students per course, so contact your local Petbarn to enquire about availability.

To find out more about puppy school, please contact Petbarn Penrith Coreen Avenue, 1/117 Coreen Avenue, 4731 6044 or visit www.petbarn.com.au

16

Legends of the Nepean Jessica Fox

By Noel Rowsell

J

Jessica Fox in action at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, during the 2018 Canoe Slalom Australian Open. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

essica Fox is Australia’s finest-ever canoeist and is now the world’s most successfulever paddler.

Jessica attended Blaxland High School and finished her HSC year with a First in New South Wales in PDHPE in 2011, with an ATAR score of 99.1.

She made her Olympic debut at the Summer Olympics in London in 2012 (winning a silver medal in the K1 event) and would subsequently win a bronze medal in the same event four years later in Rio de Janeiro.

Jessica has also won twelve medals at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, including nine golds (C1: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018), (K1: 2014, 2017, 2018) and (C1 team: 2013, 2015).

Those seven individual gold medals make her the most successful paddler, man or woman, in World Championship history.

There are also more medals in Jessica’s cabinet, including one silver (C1 team: 2017) and two bronzes (C1: 2010) and (K1 team: 2017), along with a gold medal won at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics in the K1 event.

Jessica was born on 11th June, 1994 in Marseille, France and moved to Australia in 1998 with her parents Richard and Myriam, themselves both highly-acclaimed canoeists at international level.

Her father Richard competed for Great Britain at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona (Spain), whilst her mother Myriam competed for France at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta (USA).

The family connection with Canoeing is even stronger, with younger sister Noemie also an international representative for Australia, whilst Aunt Rachel Crosbees was a British international representative.

The moment Jessica became the greatest-ever paddler was understandably dramatic and Jessica said “It has been a couple of weeks since the World Championships and it’s finally sunk in what I achieved this year”.

“It (2018) was my greatest season and one of the greatest ever!”

“So I am very pleased and it definitely gives me confidence in my preparation, my team and my ability to perform”.

“Of course with that comes more expectations and pressure but I think that throughout the World Cup races that was already building towards the world championships and I handled it

Jessica Fox was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Belinda Hill.

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

quite well” said Jessica.

In regards to the remainder of the year, Jessica said “I am having some time off to allow my body and mind to recover after a big year.”

“We (the team) have no races planned until January and February 2019, when the international season kicks off with the Australian Open and the Oceania Championships in Penrith”.

“What excites me is that I can see potential for improvement in my strength and technique - they are two major areas that I can keep developing and hopefully building towards Tokyo and beyond” said Jessica.

“Looking at the past three Olympic champions - they were all in their 30’s so I hopefully have a few years left in me!”

“I don’t think I have reached my peak yet, I have more to learn and more to give and as long as I keep enjoying myself and challenging myself and pushing the limits in my sport, I will keep going!”

Next year’s schedule includes five World Cup races and the World Championships in Spain in September.

Jessica said “This will be the first step in qualifying for Tokyo, so it will be an important year”.

“Obviously the World Championship is the major event of 2019 and I would love to defend my double world title but the main dream goal is the Olympic Games and winning a gold medal”.

In regards to the most memorable moments in the past five years, Jessica said “Gosh! So many - I would say

2014 winning my first “ double “ World Titles was very special and 2018 to have done it again and become the most successful paddler is something I could never have dreamed of!”

“Obviously the Olympics is also very memorable and there have been really special races each year that have been ‘wow’ moments for me too”.

Jessica’s manager Graham Chapman also has a viewpoint on how ongoing success changed Jessica, if at all, over the past five years, stating “The person I met prior to the 2012 Olympics is the person I know today”.

“She (Jessica) has taken the reponsibility for being a two-time Olympian and World Champion in her stride and continues to see this as an opportunity to inspire young children

around the world”.

In regards to challenges Graham undertakes to help take pressure off his young charge’s shoulders, he said “From the moment I met Jess, I have handled the very difficult task of sponsor engagement, which can be very demanding at times”.

“Sponsors are very difficult to get in the first place, however we are very blessed to have some extremely reputable companies supporting Jess on her journey such as Toyota, Red Bull and Southlands Shopping centre, along with minor sponsors” said Graham.

“I am also responsible for organising speaking engagements and I always attend large speaking events”.

In regards to Jessica’s media profile, Graham said “In Australia, especially in NSW, she (Jessica) has a large profile”.

“Overseas is different however in (both) France and England, most people associated with the sport know who Jess Fox is” “Recently she (Jessica) became the greatest-ever athlete in her sport, so I am confident that this will lift her profile even further now, especially as the Tokyo Olympics get closer.

Jessica is currently studying for a degree in Media/Communications in the Elite Athlete Program at the University of Sydney and is also studying a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) at Swinburne Online.

17

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

18

local news

The G Spot

Ahhh the Joys and the pitfalls of giving birth…… your wonderful bundle of joy has turned 18 and guess what? You as the doting parent have been asked (told, informed, directed) that it is your duty to throw a party in honour of them getting to this milestone.

Now, I will inform you of something before you even order the cake or write the short invite list with Aunt Myrtle and Uncle Bob and a few second cousins. It’s already on the social media hitting about 2000 people that are (salivating) more than happy to gate crash your house

and trash it for the occasion.

So what do you do? My answer is control, control, control. Take the party away from your house; hire a hall - it’s controlled by a finish time.

Write a list and send out invitations, and be strict, no invitation - no entry (Sorry Grandma Jo).

Access control, hire security to check off lists and hand out wrist bands and let them deal with the uninvited. The youth of today do like a drink and some are like fish drinking water, never know when to stop. My suggestion is that if there is going to be alcohol, have it

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

controlled and no, not by grandad that has had 15 beers already and can’t stand up, telling war stories. A designated bar attendant (controller) and preferably someone with RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol).

Oh also just a hint, the head of the party should also stay sober, I don’t know how many times I have spoken to the hall hirers that can’t even string two words together.

(Not a good look…seriously now… come on). Another suggestion is just hiring a venue that can do all of this for you. Relax!

Music is very important so

playing kungfu fighting at midnight when you are trying to clear the joint out is not a good idea. Try Beethoven’s greatest hits, in extended version So there you have it ….control is the answer. Your child may hate you for embarrassing them in front of their friends , however the party was a success (tick), no one was hurt (tick) your house wasn’t trashed (tick) your child will get over it (tick) and now you have time to organise the 21st. Good Luck!

Oh and don’t forget to tell the local Police you are having an 18th.

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Sport around the world

By BEN CRANNEY

E

arlier this year, I was in France during the FIFA World Cup. There’s something special about being in the country when it wins a major sporting event. I was in a taxi during the semi final, unable to follow the French radio. But I still knew France was doing well, because every time something happened, the city would erupt. Screams and cheers roared down streets from the overcrowded pubs on every corner.

People were hanging out of car windows as they zoomed down the roads, followed by trucks with horns blaring and flags waving. The city felt like it was on the edge of a joyous riot, and it didn’t sleep that night.

I watched the final in a provincial town of about 2500 people. I thought it would be quieter, but air horns in the pub, banging chairs, throwing drinks and dancing into the night in the main square proved me wrong.

Picking the winner takes a bit of luck. Not even the Kangaroos are a sure thing. But visiting the country that is hosting a major tournament is just as fun. The passion of the crowd at the European Athletics Championships creates an atmosphere that rivals any sporting event. The entrance ticket is worth it just to be in the middle of big groups of Italians, Germans, Spanish

French flag in the square

Hong Kong 7s

and Greeks as they try to out sing each other. And to top it off, when everyone left the stadium, I meet my athletics hero and spied many other stars, casually walking along as if they were just another fan.

In Hong Kong, the Rugby 7s are an institution. Everyone is an instant expert. Everyone ‘knows’ who will win (Fiji is the safe bet). Everyone has a hated team (generally us or the French). The south stand dress up and sing the day away. And the teams play with such skill and agility that you’ll think its actually this version of Rugby that gets played in Heaven.

If any of this sounds a bit intense,

relax at the English county cricket. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Green grass, talented players, drinks, sunshine and old timers watching every ball as if it was the Ashes created an atmosphere in a

game where I’d never found one before.

And if you know who is going to win the rugby next year in Japan, let me know.

Next time: Sport around Australia

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news

Nepean Preforming Arts High School Pink up for charity

By CONNER LOWE

N

e p e a n Performing A r t High School are supporting Pink Up Penrith for the McGrath Foundation and they have gone to town on their quad with pink ribbon and streamers.

Students have pink ribbon and fabric tied to their back packs, dressed their school up and have been selling hats, wigs, tutus and head feathers to raise money for Pink Up Penrith.

Eva Sutherland, the Head Teacher of the SRC spoke about her emotions seeing such an important charity bring everyone together.

“It was both moving and overwhelming. The SRC has held many events, however none have been this successful and to see all the students really embrace and support the event was amazing,” she said.

“It was beautiful to see the students working together and spreading the message and starting the conversation about cancer and being made self-aware and aware of others through the week.

“The whole event saw the teachers

and the students come together it was amazing to witness.”

Throughout the week the school covered their quad in pink and had pink accessories for sale that were purchased from ‘Duck In’ which is owned by one of their student’s parents. They also had a cake store on the Friday, where students brought in baked goods to sell to raise money for the charity.

Over the week Nepean Preforming Arts High School managed to raise over $1,500 with all money going straight to the McGrath Foundation.

Eva also spoke about how the SRC select charities each year and hopes they can all be as successful as Pink Up. “Every year we get the students in the SRC to put suggestions in of what events and charities they would like to support throughout the year. We then go through and decide on each charity and all donations and money raised go straight to the chosen charities,” she said.

“It would be amazing to see the remaining events and charities we have left to support to be as successful as Pink Up.” Congratulations to Nepean Preforming Arts High School on raising a fantastic amount for the McGrath Foundation.

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local news

What does brachycephalic mean?

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

22

B

rachycephalic comes from the Greek “brachy” meaning short and “cephalic” meaning head. Brachycephalic refers to the group of dogs with short faces, including Pugs, French, English and Australian Bulldogs, Boxers, Boston Terrier, Shih Tzus and Pekingese. These breeds are increasing in popularity due to their appearance and personality. As with every breed there are certain health issues that they may be more prone to.

Most people are aware that typically these dogs have noisy breathing and will often snore.

This is caused by a combination of anatomical abnormalities related to the shortened face. It is often termed Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome. Brachycephalic dogs commonly have an elongated soft palate. The soft palate separates the nasal cavity from the oral cavity, when it is enlarged it takes up room in the throat, as it flaps it is heard as snoring and snorting.

Other changes contribute to respiratory issues in brachycephalic dogs. They also have stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), the smaller the nostril, the more a dog needs to breathe through his mouth and pant. Conversely, they often have macroglossa (enlarged tongue) that further contributes to airway obstruction. There are two small pockets on either side of the larynx, over time with increased

breathing issues they can become everted and further obstruct the throat. The trachea (windpipe) is often very narrow and may also be weak and prone to collapsing.

Most dogs with these changes will still cope on a daily basis. However, with excessive excitement, activity, barking and panting the tissues in the throat can become swollen. Panting is one of the main ways dogs cool themselves. These breeds pant inefficiently so their bodies work harder at it, this in turn increases inflammation and swelling. Due to this combination of issues, brachycephalic dogs are the ones most likely to get heat stress, which can be fatal. It is important to prevent these dogs getting overweight and ensuring they do not get over heated.

Some dogs may require surgical intervention to correct these abnormalities. The syndrome is progressive and better outcomes are achieved if corrected early. Some dogs can suffer a collapse of the larynx and require a permanent tracheostomy (a hole in the throat) to breath. It is important to understand the trachea cannot be widened.

Brachycephalic dogs have shallow eye sockets, excessive facial skin folds and eyelid abnormalities, predisposing them to a range of eye problems.

There is an increased risk of eye prolapse with even minor trauma. Excessively loose eyelids cause lagopthalmos (inability to close the eyelids) leading to dryness and irritation to the eye. Blinding pigmentation may also develop. The hair from the nasal folds can rub directly against the eye.

Entropion (turned in eyelids) causes both hair and

eyelashes to rub against the eye. This is painful, can cause ulceration and blindness. They are also more prone to Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (dry eye) a condition that affects their tear production.

Surgery may be needed to correct excessive skin folds, elongated eyelids and entropion. Dry eye can be treated medically.

Being aware of what is normal for your dog and if it changes with time is important in determining if intervention is required. Brachycephalic dogs can have increased anaesthetic risks, your veterinarian may recommend radiographs of the chest to assess the windpipe and extra precautions may be required before sedation or anaesthetic. Referral to a specialist clinic may be required.

Due to the shortened face, brachycephalic dogs will commonly have crowding of the teeth, making them more prone to dental disease. Brachycephalic dogs can be more prone to reflux and food retention in the stomach, secondary to the issues in their throat. It may require specific therapy but will often resolve once the airway issues are corrected. Skin folds can cause irritation and infection.

Birthing complications are common with brachycephalic dogs. They have a broad head and a comparatively narrow pelvis, Caesarean Section is frequently required.

Knowing what health issues these dogs are likely to encounter helps with early recognition, intervention and management. It can also help prevent life threatening complications. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the clinic to discuss them.

Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

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local news

T

his year, on Friday 2 November, Subway restaurants around Australia are coming together to fight food insecurity in celebration of World Sandwich Day. Subway invites the Penrith community to join its largest fundraising event of the year, the Subway Live Feed; an initiative to help fight world hunger and feed Aussies in need.

In partnership with leading food relief organisation, Foodbank, every guest who visits a participating Penrith Subway restaurant and purchases a sub, salad or wrap on November 2 will get one free, and Subway will donate the cost of a meal through Foodbank to those seeking hunger relief.

“We are so excited to be taking part in Subway’s Live Feed again, this November. Our team had an awesome time last year and we would love our Penrith locals to get involved,” said Eric Liu, Subway Penrith North Franchise Owner.

In 2017 on World Sandwich Day, 13 million meals were donated globally, and 280,000 meals were donated in Australia alone, directly helping communities who experience food insecurity and anxiety, including more than 2,400 charities and 1,750 schools.

on such an important cause. We hope to see our guests join us for a delicious sub on Friday 2 November in celebration of World Sandwich Day and help us to fight hunger across the country,” said Geoff Cockerill, Country Director for Subway Australia and New Zealand.

Together with Foodbank, Subway Australia aims to donate more than 300,000 meals this year, making a difference to school children, families experiencing food scarcity, and people in need, and Subway restaurants in Penrith need your support.

Event details:

Subway Penrith North restaurant. L-R: Indianna Hutchinson, Amanda Duggan, Jordan Neal, Eric Liu, Indianna Trompert-Thompson and Mia Lennon

Each donation on Friday 2 November, in celebration of World Sandwich Day, will be captured on the Subway Live Feed digital tracker, and guests are invited to follow the progress via www.SubwayLiveFeed. com.au.

Starting out as a fun way to celebrate the humble sandwich last year, World Sandwich Day has become a key

date in the Subway calendar, rallying Australians’ love for sandwiches to support a positive cause. Participating Penrith Subway restaurants is inviting all locals to come down and join in the celebrations to make a difference to the lives of fellow Australians.

“We certainly appreciate the support that we receive from our local communities in shining a spotlight

What: Buy a sub, salad or wrap at Subway and get another one free for yourself or a friend, all while supporting Foodbank Australia Why: Celebrate World Sandwich Day and help fight hunger When: Friday 2nd November Where: Subway Centro Nepean (Penrith), Emu Plains, Glenmore Park, Jordan Springs, Kingswood, Kingswood University Campus, Penrith High Street, Penrith Peachtree Road, Penrith Trade Centre, Penrith Westfield, South Penrith, St Marys

Penrith glams up for the Luke Priddis Foundation Ball

T

HE glamour and glitz was in overdrive at The Bandy last weekend as many local businesses and residents donned their best gear for the annual Luke Priddis Foundation ball to help support those with autism.

Photos: 77Media

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Fighting hunger with the 2018 Subway Live Feed

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

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local news › Teen charged over alleged sexual assault A teenage boy has been charged over the alleged aggravated sexual assault of a man in a car park at Mt Druitt last week.

About 1am on Sunday 14 October, a 53-year-old man was in the car park of a shopping centre on Carlisle Avenue when he was approached by a 16-year-old boy, who was unknown to him.

The boy produced a knife and allegedly threatened the older man. The man attempted to flee but the boy chased and caught up to him.

The man was then allegedly sexually assaulted by the boy.

After the incident the man contacted police. He was taken to Blacktown Hospital for treatment, however had suffered no physical injury.

The boy was arrested a short time later on Luxford Road, Whalan.

A large knife was located in his possession.

He was taken to Riverstone Police Station and charged with three counts of aggravated sexual assault – threaten actual bodily harm on victim with weapon.

He was refused bail to appear at a children’s court.

Free fun for the whole family this Grandparents Day

A

s part of NSW Grandparents Day celebrations, Penrith City Council will again host a free family friendly event to recognise the important role grandparents and older people play in Penrith’s communities.

This year the celebration will be held at Parker Reserve and will include a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy, such as NSW Cricket’s backyard cricket games, billy cart racing, damper making, kids crochet, jumping castle, art with nature Aboriginal craft, sack races, a free BBQ burger lunch and more!

“Grandparents Day is not only a fantastic day out for the whole family, it’s also a great way for grandparents and older people to be recognised for their invaluable contributions to our families, volunteer organisations and the broader community,” said Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. “Grandparents Day is a great way for kids and young people to learn about older people in our community and their experiences as well as being a celebration all family members can enjoy.

“I love the billy cart racing where kids race the carts they have built with volunteers from the Nepean Men’s Shed – it’s a great example of how we can bring the young and old together in a really fun way,” Cr Fowler said.

Grandparents Day is one of the many ways Council continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting inclusive communities that value and recognise people’s contributions and is an opportunity to stop and appreciate the people who make a difference in our lives.

“I’d encourage everyone to think about the older people making a difference in their lives and invite them along to Grandparents Day.” Grandparents Day celebrations will

run from 10am-2pm on Sunday 28 October at Parker Street Reserve and will include a free BBQ lunch with vegetarian options. Coffee will also be available for purchase.

Children racing on the day will need to wear long pants and sleeves and bring a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads (there may be some spares on the day for those who don’t have their own).

For more information visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au and search ‘Grandparents Day’.

What you ‘Cane Do’ 64% of people who use white canes have been grabbed or handled by a member of the public even though they didn’t ask for help, according to a new national client survey by Guide Dogs Australia.

A similar number of people who use white canes (67%) also reported that people talk to their sighted companions instead of them directly when out in the community.

Guide Dogs Australia’s Cane Do community awareness campaign aims to remind members of the community what they ‘cane do’ to help people with a white cane navigate public spaces in a safe and independent way.

Ask the person using a white cane if they would like assistance and if so, how?

If you see a person with a white cane, be aware and give them space to navigate.

Don’t be offended if a person with a white cane declines your offer to help. They may simply be confidently travelling independently or concentrating.

Alert the person with a white cane if they are in any immediate danger.

Report all hazards in public spaces to your local council.

Pollie Cup prue

car

1, 9 & 17

State Member for Londonderry

MAYOR

ROSS

Drawn By ........................................

2, 10 & 18

aaron

Drawn By ........................................

3, 11 & 19

Labor Candidate for Penrith

KAREN

Drawn By ........................................

4, 12 & 20

McKEOWN

Phone: 0401 995 945 Phone: 98331122 karen.mckeown@penrith.city

6, 14 & 22

Phone: 0417 365 313

Penrith City Councillor

john

Drawn By ........................................

7, 15 & 23

thain

duke

Phone: 0404 085 981 Phone: 98331122 Aaron.duke@penrith.city

Penrith City Councillor

Drawn By ........................................

HITCHEN

Phone: 0419 738 484

Penrith City Councillor

Phone: 0419 177 259 Phone: 98331122 greg.davies@penrith.city

TRICIA

FOWLER ross@rossfowler.com.au

GREG

5, 13 & 21

DAVIES

MP

Phone: 9833 1122 Phone: 98331122 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

DEPUTY MAYOR

Phone: 0411 427 812 Phone: 98331122 john.thain@penrith.city

EMMA

HUSAR

Drawn By ........................................

8, 16 & 24

MP

Federal Member for Lindsay

Drawn By ........................................

Phone: 4722 0600 Phone: 98331122 emma.husar.mp@aph.gov.au

2018

Drawn By ........................................

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

28

local news

Keep your large lawn areas in top shape

W

ith all the wonderful rain, the grass is really starting to grow.

Nothing says more about you than the way you keep your property looking and well-maintained lawns are the first thing that grabs attention.

If you have small acreage, or just lots of lawn to keep in top condition, you need equipment to keep the grass trimmed. At the same time, you don’t want to spend all day keep the grounds of your property looking their best.

Just in time for the spring and summer season, the full range of the latest Toro mowers is on sale at a special three-day car park sale at Semco, 55 Kurrajong Road, North St Marys between Friday 26th and Sunday 28th of October.

The experts in mowing will be there to show you how you can save time and get a quality finish every time, with the least amount of effort.

There is a Toro mower for every application; from property owners to mowing contractors, with all the latest machines on display and price deals that make it easy to own Toro, the preferred choice of many professional lawn care specialists world-wide.

Construction machines and more For landscape contractors and property owners, there will also be a big

Toro trencher

range of Toro trenchers, loaders, stump grinders and more. Toro specialists will be at the big three-day Semco sale to introduce you to the latest gear to make your job easier and more

productive.

You don’t need to wait. You can call Steve now on 0419 468 590 to check out the Toro gear that will be right for you.

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ENTERTAINMENT

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

ENRITH might be a long way from Hollywood but it has been home for one really nice bloke with a great sense of humour who also happens to be a ground-breaker in the movie industry!

Book Week is a movie written and directed by Heath Davis, a local Penrithian and former work colleague of mine.

You may have heard his name before, because this isn’t his first last year he wowed local movie goers with the cracking good movie called Broke, starring Steve Le Marquand, Max Cullen, Claire van Der Boom and Brendan Cowell.

Broke, which was highlighted in The Guardian’s Top 10 Australian films of 2016, was released in conjunction with the NRL and played in over 100 cinemas across Australia and New Zealand.

So what’s the plot of his latest offering, Book Week?

When it looks like his novel is going to be published, high school English teacher and once famous novelist – Nicholas Cutler - thinks his luck has finally changed.

But what promises to be the best

week of his life professionally, spirals into seven days of hell personally.

A pregnant girlfriend, a student in trouble with the law, a gravely ill brother in law and the prospects of living a life of unfilled dreams, force Mr Cutler to re-examine just what’s most important in his life.

“Book Week has been dancing around in the back of my head for many years now,” Heath said.

“In fact, the script was first penned in 2010 during my time as a frustrated high school English teacher doggedly trying to get his first feature film made whilst reluctant to accept the idea that my lifelong dream may never eventuate.

“So adamant was I that my life’s

purpose and subsequent happiness would be determined by whether or not I made my film that I refused to acknowledge an alternative or silver lining if the dream wasn’t to come to fruition.

“For me it was a case of all or nothing. Success or be cursed by the angst of living a life of creative disappointment.

“As fate would have it (or my sheer ignorance more like it) in 2015 I did go on to make a film, a micro budget production I wrote, directed and produced called Broke, which proved to be the best (albeit most challenging) experience of my life. Ironically, it was during the filming of Broke that my team and I agreed Book Week would

be the perfect follow up from several other screenplays that had been gathering dust on the shelf.

“After the emotionally taxing experience of making a thematically heavy movie like Broke on the smell of an oily rag, I thought it would be fun, refreshing and challenging, to make something comedic as well as showcase another side to me as an artist.

“Whilst the genre may indeed differ, there are still my signature traits or sign posts. While essentially a comedy, the movie juxtaposes humour with tragedy.

Authenticity and truth are crucial to my character driven films’ outcomes especially at our low budgets. We are dishing up an alternative to audiences, not setting out to emulate a traditional Hollywood rom com,” Heath said.

Penrith movie-goers will be able to go see Book Week locally from today, and watch our Nepean News facebook page for a special screening hosted by our own Mark MG Geyer!

Heath is already directing his next film, Locusts, currently in production in Broken Hill and due for release in 2019.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Penrith’s Heath Davis has a new movie out

29

2018 ART EXPOSITION

27-28 October 2018 Hours: 10am - 4pm ENTRY: $2 Gold Coin Donation VENUE: School of Arts Bld, 3 Castlereagh St, Penrith PHONE: 4722 3405

2018 Art Exposition is an annual event supported by U3A Nepean Blue Mountains to highlight the artistic ability of the over 50’s in the community.

The art presented in the Expo features:

Photography • Pencil Art • Oil Painting • Washi Art • Acrylic Painting Mixed Media • Watercolour • Craft • Textile Art • Quilting Note: Most of the artworks on display are for sale, if interested in purchasing any of the art please contact any of the U3A committee members.

BIG THANK YOU TO Carolyn From Lendlease Jordan Springs Retirement who has supplied all of the cash prizes for all categories in the exhibition For further information please contact Bryan Ford 0407 217 744 or any member of the U3A Committee on 4722 3405.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

30

ENTERTAINMENT

Get U.G.L.Y at the Pio and help raise funds for sick kids

By KeRRIE DAVIES

G

RAB the fam and get set for a great day out as the annual U.G.L.Y Bartender of the Year fundraiser will be held on Sunday November 4 at the Pioneer

Tavern.

No, it is not about insulting bartenders about their physical features, “Understanding generously likeable you” is what the acronym stands for, and raising much-needed funds for the Leukemia Foundation is the aim.

The fun kicks off at 10am and runs through until 4pm. You certainly won’t have bored children with inflatable world, pony rides, face painting, a lolly guessing comp and much more to entertain them.

Your U.G.L.Y host is Bec Passlow and the big fella Mark MG Geyer will be running live auctions to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation.

Every $80 raised goes to families dealing with leukemia that are in rural areas by providing free accommodation in major cities so they can access lifesaving treatment at major hospitals.

“It gives them a space to call their own during the most challenging and difficult time, and relieves them of the emotional and financial stress of finding accommodation near treatment,” Bec said.

Family stays vary from two nights to two years.

The Pioneer Tavern has been a major supporter of the event for several years now and have raised over $15,000 with two weeks still to go before tallying up this year’s contribution.

MG will be auctioning many donated items

including a Penrith Mower Centre garden package, a golf day for four at Penrith Golf Club and he’ll even be auctioning off himself.

That’s right, you can bid on a lunch for four mates with MG and what’s even better than enjoying his company is that it is his shout! Order up big! But don’t tell him I told you to..shhh.

Penrith Mower Centre has generously donated a

quad bike which will be raffled on the day.

Darren Armstrong, Elvis impersonator is sure to have you declaring burning love or tearing up the dance floor if you happened to pack the blue suede shoes.

The sausage sizzle and the carny fun fair food will ensure you won’t go hungry, so make sure you circle November 4 for a great day out.

02 4736 4647 THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

We promote the responsible service of gaming & alcohol. alhgroup.com.au

Day Lunch TUESDAY 6 NOVEMBER • Includes a 2 course meal and glass of bubbly • Entertainment by “Steppin’ Out” from 12pm • Best Dressed & Lucky Door prizes to be won • Tickets $45 pp (bookings essential)

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS

LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10

DESPERADO the EAGLES Show SATURday 27 OCTOBER

8PM

Tickets Members $25, Non Members $30 Tickets available at Reception

MONDAY Barramundi Night $15 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Bangers & Mash Night $15 THURSDAY Parmy Night $15

Between 5 & 8pm (Conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY 26 OCT - 8PM

FRIDAY 2 OCT - 8PM

SATURDAY 3 OCT - 7PM

SUNDAY 4 OCT - 2.30PM

SUNDAY 4 OCT - 5.30PM

The Quokkas

The Machine

Lenny Duff

Banter

Soul Jam

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

32

Stalker Theatre headlines Real Festival

I

nternationally renowned outdoor theatre company Stalker Theatre are set to wow the crowds as the headline entertainment at Real Festival at the Nepean River from 2-3 November.

Stalker’s headline performance is a never before seen production called Mountain; a montage of their work which showcases their fast-paced fusion of theatre, dance, circus and acrobatics.

Mountain will be performed on both Friday and Saturday night at Real Festival; with two performances each night at 7.45pm and 9.00pm so audiences of all ages can watch the show.

Having recently thrilled crowds in Columbia, Korea and Poland with their innovative and immersive physical theatre style performance, Director David Clarkson says they’re now looking forward to bringing this new show to Penrith.

“We’re very happy to be presenting our new work Mountain at Real Festival and for the opportunity to share our dynamic mix of aerial and digital design with audiences in Penrith,” David said.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said there’s no shortage of worldclass entertainment and performances

Stalker Theatre will present a never before seen show at Real Festival and wow crowds on both nights with their fast-paced fusion of circus, aerials, dance and acrobatics.

across both Friday and Saturday at Real Festival.

“This year’s program showcases the very best performers, entertainers, and creative minds from across Australia and the world, with Stalker Theatre expected to be one of the

biggest highlights,” Cr Fowler said.

“There’s plenty of opportunities to be entertained including illuminated and interactive artworks, stage shows, roving performers, street theatre, live music and so much more. Head to the website to view the event program

and to plan your trip to the event.”

Real Festival is proudly produced

by Penrith City Council with the support of Busways, Seven News, Western Weekender and the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

Annastasia’s Hair Design • Aussie • Baldo’s Hair Care Centre Cartridge World St Marys • Cash Stop Financial Services Cashaway • Catch Hair Design • Chemist Outlet • Chimes COMPwize • Crust Pizza • Define Hair Design and Beauty Direct Shoe Warehouse • Doves Jewellers Enchanted Hair and Beauty • Essential Locksmiths • Fernz Café Hair Options By Mary • Harry’s Café & Restaurant • Hobby Pro Jamjo Home & Gifts • Laing + Simmons St Marys Lee Nova Craft • Major Oak Theatre Restaurant • Mega Cash OCTEC Employment Services • Optus St Marys Party Pit Stop • Pet Haven • Professionals Real Estate Punjab Restaurant & Functional Centre • Puzzle Box Rathas Place • Real Futures Pty Ltd Skye’s The Limit For Hair • St Marys Library St Marys Newsagency • St Marys Pharmacy Super Tools Australia - St Marys • Sydney’s Charcoal Chicken Tackle to You • Untamed Flowers Western Sydney Smiles • The Workplace Safety Centre yourtown - Transition to Work • Jonelles Hair and Beauty

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

34

30th Annual Doll Bear & Craft Fair

O

n Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th October 2018 the Museum of Fire will be holding its 30th Annual Doll Bear & Craft Fair.

The Museum has been running this fair for the past 29 years and it has become one of the premier fairs in New South Wales. With over 110 stalls undercover, all on one level with wheel chair access and plenty of bus/coach parking, it makes for a fun day out for all ages.

Stalls this year include, an assortment of dolls, including reborn, porcelain, vintage, and pixie dolls, many handmade and hand dressed teddies, homemade children’s clothes, Christmas decorations, Quilts, Soap, Candles, Doll Cradles, Dream Catchers, Jewelry, Doll Clothes, enviro bags as well as fully restored prams and to many more craft stalls to mention.

Many stallholders travel a long distance to be here as it is one of the few 2 day indoor fairs still left in Sydney.

The Fair is open to the public from 9.00am to 3pm both days and we also have free Doll Valuations being done by a member of the Doll Collectors Club of NSW on Saturday from 10am till 2pm.

We have kept our entry prices reasonable at just $6.00 for Adults, $4.00 for Concessions and $2.00 for children aged from 2 – 13 years.

The Museum of Fire, located in the old Penrith Power Station, 1 Museum Drive (off Castlereagh Road) opened as Australia’s only dedicated Fire Safety Education Centre in 1986.

The Museum is a Registered Charity, dedicated to teaching and promoting Fire Safety and raising awareness of the heroic role fire fighters play in serving the community.

CROSS

WORD

ACROSS 1 Arrange by categories (8) 5 Refrained from

harming (6) 9 Uses up (8) 10 Relating to the iris of

the eye (6) 12 Approaches (5) 13 Sweet edible berry (9) 14 Split (6) 16 From Belgium (7) 19 Connote (7) 21 Vapors (6) 23 Unlawfully (9) 25 Not sooner (5) 26 The inside of a pants

leg (6) 27 Not the long way

around (8) 28 Console (6) 29 A sunken

engraving (8)

Who Am I? from page 7 I am Councillor Jim Aitken

solution 11/10/18

DOWN 1 Cyphering (6) 2 Attracting (9) 3 Outdoor storage

buildings (5) 4 Something provided

without charge (7) 6 Conic curves (9) 7 Detection device (5) 8 Rotting (8) 11 Bushback (4) 15 Trademark or

signature (9) 17 The same (9) 18 Becomes bony (8) 20 Shout (4) 21 Winged monster (7) 22 A small cave (6) 24 Lariat (5) 25 Insect stage (5)

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

36

Side By Side

T

he music of two of Australia’s most enduring showbiz legends Olivia Newton John and Peter Allen is brought to you in this month’s Morning Melodies at the Joan by two of Australia’s finest cabaret stars, Donna Boyd and Simon Gillespie.

Donna and Simon will take you on a captivating journey through the triumphs, tears, hits and heartaches of these two adored Australian icons with behind the scenes stories accompanied with performances of their widely held contemporary songs of the 70’s and 80’s. A very special and intimate cabaret; every song – a hit, every story – a revelation.

Side By Side: Olivia and Allen will delight audiences with iconic pop music, performing much-loved songs such as I Honestly Love You, I Go to Rio, Tenterfield Saddler, I Still Call Australia Home, Let Me Be There, Xanadu, Physical and Hopelessly Devoted to You. Donna is a multi-award winning Australian songwriter and performer,

combining an exceptional voice and top-quality audience engagement with insightful interpretation of Olivia’s greatest hits. Simon, with experience ranging from leading roles in theatre to headlining international cabaret acts, is the ultimate all-rounder in this exceptionally fun show.

All tickets are $20 and include a delicious morning tea served from 10am Performance begins at 11am and concludes around 12.30pm.

All seats are allocated.

The Joan’s Box Office is 4723 7600.

Camp popcorn

P

opcorn High School is BACK!! All your favourite characters and some new

ones!

Choir master Peter Presley and his students are gearing up to fly to New York for their yearly camping trip which will feature the announcement of the king and queen of Popcorn High during a gala performance at Madison square garden. In Popcorn nothing is ever smooth sailing. Will Peter and the students even make it out of Popcorn? Will the teachers ever stop fighting? Will the students ever stop the school bullies tormenting those who are different? You’ll just have to come and find out. Camp Popcorn

promises to be a hilarious, colourful and unique toe tapping experience full of some of the best pop music of all time and maybe even a dash of country. The show is a mix of Glee and High school Musical with a big dash of American Pie. Get your tickets while you can.

To book tickets go to www.trybooking.com/370235 To reserve show only phone (02) 4735 5422.

“CAMP POPCORN” will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith.

November 3rd, 10th, 17th at 2pm and 8pm. www.rubyproductions.com.au

h t 8 2 R E OCTOB • Evening Private Parties • Fundraising • Indoor Playground Cafe • Themed Party Packages • Vacation Care OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Monday to Saturday 9:30am - 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am - 5:00pm General Admission: 1 – 2 Years $11.90, 3 – 11 Years $14.90

Ngala Sunday Markets Last Sunday of the Month @ PENRITH VALLEY SCHOOL LOT 3 WERRINGTON RD, WERRINGTON

School Day: 1 – 11 Years $11.90 Birthday Parties: From $225.00 Private Venue Hire: From $850

1 Rowood Road, Prospect (02) 9636 9828

www.chipmunks.com.au/indoor-playgrounds/ sydney/prospect/

To book a stall phone: 9623 7532 We walk together

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

38

NEPEAN HISTORY

William Lawson’s Reflections on Aborigines

By Jack Brook Blacktown and District Historical Society

T

he following is an extract of a long letter written

by William Lawson of Prospect concerning the aborigines sometime after 1837.

“Messers. Blaxland, Wentworth and myself crossed the Blue Mountains in 1813 or 1814 during three years of great drought of 1812:13:14. Our cattle and sheep at the time were dieing (sic) in hundreds, I may say thousands, for want of grass and water, we were then confined to the County of Cumberland as no outlet was then known. No doubt the Discovery of the Awful Crisis saved the colony from perishing.”

One gets the feeling that desperation drove them to find a way over the mountains in the fervent hope of finding lush pastures for their livestock. They performed the task of crossing the mountains in about six weeks and saw no natives. Their camps were evident and due to the great quantity of wood shavings found there from sharpening their spears, the explorers concluded the aborigines were preparing to attack them.

Lawson mentions that William Cox made the road over the mountains by following the line of trees marked by the three explorers. Governor Macquarie’s journey to Bathurst over Cox’s road in 1815 and his establishment of a settlement there gets a brief mention. Cox was placed in charge of the settlement initially but Lawson relieved him of his duties and took command in 1819 and held the position until 1825 - “with several detachments placed at Spring-wood, and Cox’s River.” He had orders to protect “the Blacks and Establish a good understanding between them and the white people which I succeeded in; the whole time I held command.” At the time of writing the letter Lawson said the herds of cattle and sheep were “now spread over the face of that country.”

On his arrival at Bathurst he did not see an Aboriginal for some months.

Then “one day a Chief of the Bathurst tribe came to Government House by himself, he seemed very much terrified and alarmed. His name was Evan, a man about 60 years of age, much marked with the smallpox.” He only stayed a short time and was very uneasy. Lawson gave him a blanket and some flour. A week later Evan brought in his tribe (clan) of about twenty or thirty in number. He told Lawson that a number of “Black men” had been shot and chased into the river by the “Kangaroo Dogs” where the men drowned.

Lawson believed Evan because he was aware that many hunters crossed the river in the night to steal potatoes’ large quantities, prior to this happening in 1817 or 18. The old chief impressed Lawson, he found him “a most faithful creature,” accompanying him out in the bush two months at a time.

Evan and many of his tribe were killed about 1826, after Lawson had left Bathurst. A number of men who Lawson had known were killed and he believed some were scalped. However the scalping of men was not, I believe, an Aboriginal custom. Evan’s tribe did not commit these crimes wrote Lawson, but Saturday’s tribe. Saturday alias Windradyne was a “ferocious and cruel fellow.” (Martial law was proclaimed and Saturday and his followers were hunted down. It was recorded that numerous Aboriginal men, women and children were butchered. Following the lifting of martial law on 11th December 1824 and the ending of hostilities between the Wiradjuri people and Bathurst settlers “an amicable intercourse” had been re-established. The fearsome warrior was brought to Parramatta to take part in the annual conference and feast where the tribal leaders met the Governor. Saturday was an unwilling participant).

During the period of martial law Lawson accompanied Major Morriset,

who was in charge of the mounted police, searching for the killers. Over a period of six weeks not a single Aborigine was seen.

It was Lawson’s opinion that “the quarrels between the Blacks and Whites” arose from the stock-keepers taking Aboriginal women, “although the husband often gives his consent, on receiving a blanket, flour, meal or clothes. Sometimes, they get nothing / but cheated / this make the Blacks angry - most of these poor creatures are now diseased. Their tribes are dwindled to a very few with smallpox, measles and disease.” His opinion was that “this race of men will be scarcely seen in fifty years!”

The older men of the tribe had a great objection to the young men leaving to work for settlers. The various tribes (clans) were often at war with one another and the young Warriors were needed. However when they were sent for they immediately obeyed the call.

Lawson had an Aboriginal man in his employ, his mother had died when he was young. He was brought up with white people. Employed as a bullock driver, he drove a team between Mudgee and Sydney. Lawson found him to be “faithful, sober, honest and as useful as any white man.”

Two young men belonging to one of the western tribes lived at Prospect with Lawson for nearly two years and went out to their work quite contented as regular as the white workers. One day a fellow tribesman from over the mountains called saying they must return home as war was brewing. They told their employer that they were sorry, they must go, “or stand punishment or the tribe would kill them.” They never returned but Lawson had seen them since living with the tribe. It was Lawson’s opinion that “the character of the natives in their wild states are roguery, cunning, deceit and ferocity when injured. If any one of their tribe is destroyed by a white man, or one of another tribe, they will never be satisfied until they have their revenge on the first white or black they meet, but they have a strong attachment for persons where they are treated kindly - and a great love for their children. I believe nothing would induce them to part with their children when little.”

Mentioning Governor Macquarie he wrote that the Governor built huts at Black Town, gave cows to them and men to assist them in working, clearing and enclosing their ground. They stayed for quite some time but in the end they preferred the wandering life. “They are a people who don’t think and provide for tomorrow, sometimes in wet and cold weather they will not look for food until they are compelled from starvation.”

Lawson mentions “our Prospect tribe” saying only four remain, a man, his wife and two daughters. His wife was some years in the school at Parramatta, she could read, sew and was quite domesticated, “after all that (went bush) and now are bad as any of them.”

Benelong’s trip to England is mentioned and another Aborigine, Dan who went with Caley the botanist, to England for a few years. Lawson met him there “on the Parade in St James Park”, he asked how he liked the fine things in England.

He replied, “I am anxious to return to my country, I find more pleasure under a gum tree sitting with my tribe than I do here.” Sometime after his return home, Dan was hung for the violent rape of a white woman.

Lawson concludes that unless the children are taken from their tribe while very young there is no chance of them “civilising and bringing them to habits of labour to maintain themselves.” The repercussions of that policy led to the pain of the Stolen Generations.

The final few words of his letter are “ I am but a poor scribbler and I fear you will hardly make it all out.”

How do you want your friends to remember you?

With a prepaid funeral, just the way you are.

Not only will prepaying and preplanning your funeral protect your loved ones financially and emotionally, it also ensures that it’ll be representative of the life you’ve lived; that all the details will be tasteful, just the way you like it - almost as if you were there in fact...

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

T

he local and greater Sydney real estate prices continue to decline. Data shows prices dropping each month since the peak of the market in the middle of last year.

These price falls are mainly driven by a large decrease in demand caused by the following factorsHIGHER INTEREST RATES Lenders have increased interest rates over the last 12 months, especially for investment loans and all loans with interest only repayments. APRA was also very concerned about the high number of all home loans in the country that only have interest only repayments. Too many owner occupiers were getting interest only loans, which means that they are not paying down any of the principal balance.

Interest Only repayments usually go for 5 years. There was a very high proportion of these types of loan taken in 2014 and 2015 by both investors and owner occupiers. When these loans revert to standard principle plus interest repayments, the monthly commitment will increase substantially. A $500,000 loan with interest only repayments at 4.5 percent costs $1,875 per month.

After the first 5 years of a 30 year loan

term, the repayment will then revert to $2,639 per month even when the interest rate is reduced to 4 per cent.

This is an increase of 41 per cent to the previous monthly repayment.

When these higher repayments kick in on mass in 2019 and 2020, some home owners will not be able to cope and may be forced to sell their property.

TIGHTER LENDING STANDARDS In 2017, APRA wanted to cool demand and prices in the two biggest markets of Sydney and Melbourne by making lending more difficult for investors. Also, the Royal Commission has put the spotlight on all lenders and their various practises.

One response has led them to be very strict on how much they lend in each application. They are looking very closely and peoples’ undeclared living expenses. They are checking where possible the last 3 months debits on all savings account and credit cards to get a true picture on how much people are spending on a quarterly basis.

HIGHER SUPPLY A large number of new unit developments are being completed and will need to settle over the year or so.

LOWER DEMAND There has been a very large decrease in demand, mainly by investors.

Standard investors numbers have

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

decreased plus demand from people buying properties in a Self-Managed Superfund and big reductions in demand from overseas investors (due to difficulty in getting finance and higher interest rates) mean that there are mainly only owner occupiers in the market.

As the below chart (source Domain and AMP Capital) shows, as Sydney auction clearance rates decline, prices follow lower. Whenever finance becomes more expensive and harder to get, demand and prices for property usually decreases.

Sydney prices are expected to decline further over the next year or two. However, I think the prices for the more affordable properties will not fall as much as average or

dearer properties, as the underlining economy is relatively Ok and while the unemployment rate is nudging down.

This all means that trying to sell property anywhere in Sydney is difficult and you can only sell if you lower your expectations and meet the lower prices demanded by the lower number of potential buyers. It’s now a buyers’ market.

This information is of a general nature and you should not solely rely on it before making any decisions.

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

Sydney auction clearance rate and home price growth

Phone: 4739 4500 Mobile: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au Award winning mortgage broker

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Real estate prices continue to decline

39

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Should my child specialise early?

s we head into summer with a new season of warm weather sports commencing I often get asked by parents of players I coach: What is the best advice you can give me in order to ensure my child reaches his / her potential and develops as an athlete? The best advice I can give is to allow them to play as many sports as possible in their developmental years (From 6 to 15 years of age). To narrow a young athletes focus to one sport at a young age can have a very detrimental effect on their holistic development.

Sampling and experiencing a variety of sports is essential in developing a wide range of skills across different environments and team dynamics. Our focus as coaches and parents is often on the sport specific skills needed to excel, if we can specialise in one sport early we will give our child the best chance in order to get ahead of their competition. Early specialisation = Early peak. We all know a player in our chosen sport who were the best in the team, competition, state or maybe even the country at a young age. But peaked and never made it as a senior athlete or in a professional capacity.

Experiencing a wide range of activities will develop a much broader athletic skill foundation.

Those who specialise early will experience short term success but usually plateau out and are at a greater risk of physical and mental burn out. The argument for early specialisation in Australia is usually with the goal of making a rep team or getting into a club system to enhance the athletes overall chance at long term success.

But it is important to understand the current landscape. If you have two identical players but one has the ability to compete at a higher level of intensity, has a greater awareness and game intelligence than the other this player will always be more successful. Sport specific skills are great, but you need to have the athletic capability in order to execute them in high pressure environments under fatigue. Well rounded athletes who have sampled in multiple sports will have a more rounded skill set which will enable them to cope at a much greater level than an athlete with a narrowed skill set.

When young athletes are looking to develop and improve they should not firstly focus on the game

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

specific skill requirements, however they should focus on the skills which will enable them to become a well-rounded athlete such as: vision, game sense, movement patterns, speed, agility, co-ordination, balance, perception, deceleration, fine motor control, strength and power. The more sports they play the more these athletic abilities are developed and finetuned in a variety of different environments.

Outside of the technical aspects of specialising early, narrowing the focus at a young age and training in one sport will take the fun and enjoyment out of it. I am sure we have all witnessed the parent who pushes their son / daughter to the point where they no longer enjoy it or they find themselves under so much pressure their performance declines. The most dominant team sport athlete in the world at the moment in my opinion is LeBron James who played both American football and basketball in high school. Andrew Johns the most dominant Rugby League player in the modern era grew up surfing, playing cricket, soccer and Rugby League. Let the kids play, and let them have fun across a range of different sports!

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Local Paralympian wins 5th World Championship

By CONNER LOWE

L

o c al Paralympian Erik Horrie has won his 5th World Championship title in a nail biting finish in Bulgaria, earlier this month.

Erik began rowing in 2011 with the dream to participate in one Paralympic games and since then has achieved eight NSW Championships, eight Australian Championships, Para rower of the world in 2014 and the list goes on.

Erik spoke about winning his first medal and how far he has come since reaching his goal to participate at a Paralympic Games.

“Winning the first medal representing Australia was unbelievable, it was a very surreal moment, certainly made all those hours of training worth it,” he said.

“My first world record was in 2013 in South Korea. My first thought was “that hurt a lot more than any previous races” and then I realised how fast I’d gone.

“My goal was to participate at a Paralympic Games and the rest is history. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’m very proud of myself and with all the hard training I’ve done, to have it pay off holding the number one position in the world in pr1 men’s single scull it’s certainly something I don’t take for granted.

“It comes with a lot of pressure holding the number one spot as you always know your competitors are training just as hard to claim it.”

Erik is currently ranked 1st in the world and when you reflect on his achievements and his training resume its clear his dedication has paid off.

Erik currently trains six days a week with the majority of his training in the boat on the Nepean River and at the Regatta Centre. He spends the remaining time training his strength and conditioning at Homebush.

Erik also spoke about his fondest memory in his rowing career thus far and what his current plans are for the future.

“My most favourite memory is

last year’s World Championships in America as this was the first time we raced 2km in para rowing. It was also the first time my family was able to travel overseas and watch me race and win my 4th world championship and not be watching it either on TV or the internet,” he said.

“We’re back in the boat now after having a little break after the last World Championships. I’m now back into the normal routine of training and racing the domestic rowing season in Australia and hopefully I’m successful enough to be selected for next year’s World Championships.

“My long-term goal is to be selected for Tokyo 2020 to compete in my third Paralympic Games for Australia.”

41 Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

Coach’s Corner

SPORT

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

42

SPORT NSW Police and PCYC to help disconnected youth across the State

By CONNER LOWE

T

he NSW Police Commissioner has developed a new strategy called ‘RISEUP’ that is designed to reconnect disengaged young people back into education or create workplace opportunities.

The foundation of the initiative is a focus on early intervention to prevent and disrupt crime in youth. The NSW Police Force Youth Crime Prevention Command has consolidated a suite of programs as part of the RISEUP strategy.

Senior Constable Annie Knight spoke about the strategies incorporated into the state-wide operation and the learning environments for the youth.

“The programs operate state wide in partnership with PCYC NSW and encompass a range of strategies including early intervention, developmental crime prevention, positive relationships, support networking, functional numeracy, literacy, nutrition and behavioural workshops,” Senior Constable Knight said.

“The programs are delivered in an alternative learning environment to build participants commitment, resilience and motivation. In Term 4, PCYC Penrith will be running two programs, Fit for Work and Fit for Life.”

Fit for Work is an integrated program delivering real change for young people disengaged from education and employment opportunities.

Police redirect, educate and inspire young people to feel valued, gain a qualification and become contributing community members. This program will accommodate up to 14 youth aged between 15-17 who are showing employment interest. Crime

prevention, positive relationships, support networking and preemployment training are all provided, at no cost to youth.

The program combines sport, fitness activities, classroom training and presentations from relevant industry guest speakers and Police crime prevention workshops. The program concludes with each participant attending two weeks of work experience.

The Fit for Life program will provide early intervention for youth engagement, improve physical fitness

and nutrition, improve overall wellbeing and improve the relationships between local youth and police.

Weekly one-hour early morning fitness activities are followed by a healthy breakfast before students return to school.

This program is designed to reengage disengaged youth back into the education system and allowing them to continue to develop intellectually and socially within the school environment. The focus is on crime prevention, positive relationships, healthy lifestyles and

support networking aimed at youth 13-17 years old.

Penrith Coles and FOODBANK NSW are offering food supplies as support for Fit for Life term four at the Penrith PCYC. PCYC Penrith are currently appealing for any business members of the community to reach out and support this great initiative whether this is through sponsorship of these programs or through mentor support.

If you would like further information, please contact PCYC Manager Leann Tibbey on 4732 1755.

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Coin toss no loss as Penrith go it alone on top Round Three was plunged into one-day chaos after rain washed out play on day one and afternoon storms threatened day two action.

But when the storms abated last Saturday evening, it would be Penrith who emerged as NSW Premier Cricket’s sole competition leaders after their dominant 54 run win over Manly, their first since 2012/13, despite losing the toss and batting first on a Manly Oval wicket that Ryan Smith later admitted he clueless on what to do had he won the toss.

Not that it mattered that Smith was asked by his Manly counterpart to bat first and face the likes of Blues squad members, Mickey Edwards and Chris Green.

Openers Ryan Gibson (102) and Ryan Hackney (65) relished the challenge of batting first under limitedovers circumstances and once again added in excess of 150 runs for the second time in such contests in 2018/19.

The Black Cats raced to 1/179 off just 30 overs and score of anything up to 350 was on the cards.

But a mid-innings collapse (5/41) had Penrith suddenly struggling to reach 250, before an unbeaten 7th wicket partnership of 54 between wicket-keeper Tyran Liddiard (43*) and Luke Hodges (23*) saw the home side set a more than competitive target of 281 to win.

For the greater part of the innings, the Panthers took control with the ball, spear-headed by limited overs specialist Josh Lalor (2/16) and Luke Hodges (1/29), ably supported by Michael Collins (2/49), Brent Williams (2/41) and Smith (1/47), as Penrith notched up its third win from as many matches.

Smith tole Nepean News after the game it was one coin toss he was glad to lose before praising another strong start from his openers.

“I would have batted 100 percent (laughs) but I must admit I was kind of glad to lose the toss as I still wasn’t 100 percent whether to bat or bowl on that wicket as it was a bit deceiving right up to the coin toss itself,” Smith conceded.

“But Gibbo and Hackers summed up the situation really well and in quick time to be able to play to the conditions and see that the wicket wasn’t too bad to bat on.”

Smith added that with the total they were able to set, he was confident his bowlers would do the job against a Manly side, also bolstered by the inclusion of NSW squad member Jay Lenton.

“We lost a couple of wickets in the middle there and we sort of re-assessed and thought maybe 250 will be good score,” Smith declared.

“But Lidds and Hodgey batted really well putting on that partnership in quick time.

“I was hoping for around 270 but to get 280 was really good.

PG’s: Penrith (12th): 7/132 (R Hackney 30) def.

by Eastern Suburbs 2/133 (A Burton 1/16) The Panthers host a crucial Poidevin-Gray T20 double-header at Howell Oval this Sunday against undefeated Bankstown and 16th-placed Sydney University ahead of the final three rounds which revert back to the 50-overs format of the game.

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

BEHIND THE STUMPS

with Stew Moses

43

Last season’s Kingsgrove Sports Twenty20 Cup runners-up, Penrith, will open it’s 2018 campaign when they travel to Old Kings Oval to take on Parramatta on Sunday Nov 4 at 10am.

Pat Cummins’ latest comeback from cricket continues to grow having played in the recent Futures League game against Tasmania last week at Blacktown ISP, taking 3/34 and 0/29. Penrith team mates Ryan Gibson (12 & 16) and Ryan Hackney (0 & DNB) both missed out on runs in the same fixture.

Josh Lalor was an unexpected but welcomed addition for Penrith last Saturday. Credit: Michael Gibson.

“It was really good to get that score and give our bowlers a total that they were more than capable of defending and we were able to do that.

“We started really well with Collo (Michael Collins) and Lalor and then Hodgey coming in and tying down an end for ten overs straight bowling pretty much to the short boundary.”

Having beaten one “bogey” team in Manly, Smith says they must keep their momentum going if they are going to overcome another bogey side in a winlessto-date St George (15th) at Howell Oval over the next two Saturdays.

“If you include games from the end of last season too, I think we have won seven in a row and got this really great momentum that everyone can feel.”

“It’s got everyone training really hard, working for each other and I think we are pretty confident in who we play next week, week after, whenever.”

It wasn’t all plain sailing for Penrith, with losses in 2s and 3s plus a surprise eight-wicket loss in PG’s the next day to Eastern Suburbs, putting the Black Cats back to fourth position on the club championship.

2s: Penrith (6th): 7/81 def. by Manly 9/181 3s: Penrith (17th): 9/147 (C New 49) def. by Manly 3/148 (J Singh 2/18) 4s: Penrith (14th): 8/145 def. Manly 143 (P Gregerson 3/24, L Doddrell 3/43) 5s: Penrith (4th): 7/146 def. Manly 145 (Z Rizzo 4/34, B Vella 3/19)

Congratulations to Henry Railz, who was named in ACT / NSW Country squad for the upcoming National U19s championships.

Penrith has also named its Green Shield (U16s) squad for its 2018/19 campaign with coaches Cameron Weir and Shannon Finemore confident the side that contains the likes of Ryley Smith, Ben Tracey, Liam Doddrell and Jordan Watson, will have a strong season.

With last Sunday week’s fixture against Sydney washed out, the return of Sarah Coyte and Rebecca Cody wasn’t enough to overcome the loss of Naomi Stalenberg to Australia A duties in India as Penrith went down by four wickets against Parramatta at Howell Oval last Sunday.

Penrith were dismissed for just 142 on the back of three run-outs including skipper Mikayla Hinkley, left stranded on 49.

Then having crashed through the Parramatta top order to have the visitors in trouble at 6/93, some untidy bowling (including 24 wides) saw victory slip from the Lady Cats’ grasps despite the best efforts of Parneet Kaur 2/22 and tight bowling early on from Lisa Griffith, Coyte and Hinkley.

Penrith have this bye this weekend before hosting Bankstown the following Sunday.

A reminder to turn into Sportswatch each and every Saturday morning from 6-9am on 89.9FM Hawkesbury Radio, with grade cricket coverage between 7-8am featuring myself, Nicholas Kutjnak and a mystery guest. Cameron Weir will also call in at 7:48am to talk all things Penrith CC and a little bit more. #LTC

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Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

44

SPORT Panthers’ retention drive continues, securing Blake, Leota to long term deals

By STEWART MOSES

E

@TheRiffMarn

xciting Panthers centre Waqa Blake and prop Moses Leota, have both committed their long-term futures with Penrith.

The Fijian born but WA-raised Holden Cup and NSW Cup winning 23-year old centre, who made both his NRL and NSW City Origin debut in 2015 before representing Fiji in 2017, will extend his NRL career at the club, which currently stands at 78 appearances (33 tries), until at least the end of the 2023 season.

“I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to commit my future to the club,” Blake said.

“Panthers is home for me now and I really couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else.

“I love the Panthers fans, I love my teammates and I love the culture we have here at the club.

“I’ve got a lot of belief in this team and what we can achieve over the next few years.”

Leota, Penrith’s NYC player of the year from that 2015 premiership-

Not going anywhere in a hurry are Waqa Blake and Moses Leota. Credit: NRL Photos.

winning season, before making his NRL debut in 2016, was also a part of the Intrust Super Premiership and Intrust Super State Championshipwinning teams of 2017.

The 23-year old’s contract extension will mean the Panthers prop will extend his NRL career with Penrith, which currently stands at 34 appearances (2 tries), until at least the end of the 2022 season.

“It feels great to have re-signed and to know I’ll be at Panthers for the next

four years,” Leota said.

“With the players and staff we have, I think we’re in a strong position to push for a premiership. That’s a big motivation for me.

“This is the club that showed faith in me from the very beginning and now it’s my time to give something back.

“I want to thank the Panthers members for their support. I can’t wait to see them again in 2019.”

Panthers EGM Phil Gould AM is

understandably delighted to have secured the long-term futures of two players who have come through the club’s highly regarded development system.

“Waqa Blake is an outstanding young man and a tremendous success story for our club,” Gould said.

“He graduated from the Panthers development system to establish himself as an important member of our NRL team.

“Waqa is fast developing into one of the most dangerous attacking players in the NRL. “We firmly believe he is a representative player of the future and we are excited to know he will be with us for at least the next five seasons.”

“We’re (also) delighted Moses will be part of our club for the next four seasons.

“Moses is one of the hardest working young men I have encountered in all my time in rugby league.

“He is another success story emerging from the club’s junior development pathways and he deserves everything he gets out of the game due to his unconditional commitment.”

Penrith’s “Two Ryans”: A class act in their own right

By STEWART MOSES

I

@TheRiffMarn

t’s been a start to the NSW Premier Cricket season like no other in recent times.

It’s been all about suspended Australian test stars David Warner and Steve Smith playing week-toweek grade cricket and the media and public attention their appearances at this level has attracted.

But in outer Western Sydney, it’s a different story as the Penrith Cricket Club proudly sits alone at the top of the NSW Premier Cricket first grade ladder.

Granted there’s 80 percent of the season to go, but it’s no mean feat when you consider just last season, the summer Panthers had just one win going into Christmas, as opposed to a three from three in the opening rounds of this season.

Much of this early success can be put down to Penrith’s new class opening act – the “Two Ryans” – Ryan Gibson and Ryan Hackney.

In both one-day games played from Penrith’s three-game winning stretch to start the season, the dynamic duo at the top of the batting order have become a class act of their own, scoring two opening partnerships of in an excess of 150 runs against Hawkesbury and Manly.

However as Gibson points out, had he had it his way he and Hackney might have missed out had the skipper, Ryan Smith listened to his advice and bowled first had he won the toss.

Right hand / left hand combination of Ryan Gibson and Ryan Hackney has worked a treat for Penrith in the early rounds. Credit: Michael Gibson

“I actually told the skipper to bowl first. I thought there might be a little bit in it and the spikes were going into the wicket quite easily,” Gibson admitted to Nepean News.

“With the rain all week I thought it might have done a little bit early.

“But it didn’t do as much as I thought and the wicket overall played pretty well considering the wet weather we have had.

“It was a good toss to lose so thanks Skip.”

Gibson was expected to start the season with the NSW Blues squad until his untimely omission from that squad halfway through its one-day series campaign.

But instead of kicking stones, Gibson responded with two hundreds and says that continuing his development as an opener, is the best means for his return to the state arena with New South Wales as

well as claiming the opening batting role in the upcoming Big Bash League T20 series with the Sydney Thunder.

“Opening is something I wanted to do in order to give myself the best opportunity of batting anywhere for the state squad,” Gibson responded.

“Unfortunately I didn’t score any runs when I was with the state squad so I’m just happy to be spending time out in the middle now and scoring runs again for Penrith and try and put my name up for the Shield games coming up.

“Then going into Big Bash I’d like to think I can open the batting there as well now so hopefully I can keep this white ball form going.”

Not to be outdone, Hackney has also started the season impressively, scoring a century first up before last Saturday’s 65 against Manly.

The opening bat, who recently

completed a pre-season for the first time with the Cricket NSW Blues squad under a rookie contract, says he welcomes Gibson as his opening partner, as Hackney starts to consolidate his position in the top grade, since scoring his maiden first grade hundred late last season.

“For me it takes a bit of pressure off because Gibbo scores pretty freely and allows me to do my business at the other end and build my innings.

We work well together,” Hackney said.

“I take my time to get into my game then pick up through the middle and slog a few at the end, that’s kind of how I have always approached my batting.

“But I guess it’s rewarding that I am getting a bit bigger and stronger now and have that ability to clear the fence a bit easier too.

“It’s obviously been good for me learning as much as I can and developing my cricket off guys around me who have done everything in the game.

“I am just absorbing as much as I can and learning to improve my game.”

Integral to his development as a player, has been Hackney’s desire to captain the defending champions of the Poidevin-Gray U21s limitedovers competition.

“I had my eyes on being captain and leading the young guys around and it’s good to be able to work with younger guys and try bounce ideas off everyone as we look to improve and win together.”

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

PRIDDIS THROWS SUPPORT BEHIND MERRIN AS REPORTS LINK PROP TO Newcastle The rumblings surrounding Trent Merrin’s future won’t go away with reports in the Newcastle Herald suggesting the former NSW and Australian forward could be Knightsbound, remarkably in some sort of a player swap with Kiwi hooker, Danny Levi.

But 2003 premiership-winning Panthers hooker, Luke Priddis believes the club needs to look at the way Merrin is currently being utilised and hopes the representative forward sees out his contract at Penrith, which ends after the 2020 season.

“Trent has had some really good games throughout his years here at the club but I think Panthers have got the lot out of him without necessarily getting the best of him as well,” the 2003 Clive Churchill Medalist told Nepean News.

“His performances when given the chance this year, have been up to a high standard and certainly would not have looked out of place in an Origin side.

“But there is speculation whether players like Trent Merrin are still going to be here or not.

“All too often it seems to be the easiest thing (to move a player on) when they think they have brought the wrong player or think they need to start curtailing their career. “(For me) It comes down to how he has been used.

“Merrin was brought here as a lock and has been thrown into the front row before going back to lock and this year he has gone back in the front row again.

“That has to have an effect on Trent because to me, Trent is a good ball-playing lock forward.

“When you tend to get thrown into the front row, you would think he has been told to just hit it up and get that quick play the ball and forget about ball-playing.

“If you are a natural ball-player which I think Trent is one, it probably puts a bit of a dampener on his enthusiasm and he is probably second guessing himself at the moment.

“It may take someone to say to Trent “you are a front rower and we are still going to give you that licence to have an offload and use your ballplaying skills,” because otherwise when you have blokes like that who are curtailed into being just hit up forwards, they lose the enthusiasm for what their game is all about as well.

“Merrin still has a lot to offer and with the

The full 2019 NRL draw is due for release this week but already there is news that Penrith will once again have the opportunity to sell out Panthers Stadium with another season-opener on Sunday 16th March against traditional rivals Parramatta.

Also confirmed is the Penrith Panthers’ next NRL fixture in Bathurst, which will be played on Saturday 30th March, 2019 against a yet-to-benamed opponent at time of going to print.

It could see 2018’s match attendance record at Carrington Park broken given the milder evening conditions and a favourable opponent on a Saturday night.

The Panthers have also confirmed their preseason trial fixtures will both be played at Panthers Stadium against Sydney Roosters (Sat Feb 23) and Parramatta (Sat Mar 2).

Panthers legend Luke Priddis hopes the salary cap won’t force a player such as Trent Merrin (pictured) out of Penrith. Credit: NRL Photos.

right person managing Trent, I think they will get the best out of him.”

It’s been a big fortnight for Panthers fullback, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.

Firstly, in somewhat of a pleasant shock, Dallin was named skipper for the recent Trans-Tasman Test by Kiwi coach Michael Maguire and promptly played his finest game for New Zealand, leading them to their first win over the Australian Kangaroos in four years, 26-24 at Mt Smart Stadium.

Then the newly-appointed skipper flew back home in time to be at the birth of his second child, Indi, before re-joining the Kiwi squad in the UK, to prepare for a three-game test series vs England that starts this weekend at Hull, with fixtures to follow at Anfield and Leeds.

Whilst Watene-Zelezniak and James FisherHarris starred for the Kiwis in their win over Australia, Penrith’s two Kangaroo representatives, Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Tyrone Peachey did not play in either of the two matches played in NZ, including last Saturday’s historic test vs Tonga, won 34-16 by the Kangaroos.

But Sione Katoa did manage to get some game time with Tonga, coming on for injured playmaker, Ata Hingano, midway through the first half.

OFFER ENDS 30 NOVEMBER 2018

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With pre-season training not to commence for a few more weeks yet, plenty of Panthers have utilised their down-time to great effect with the likes of Dean Whare (Singapore), Nathan Cleary (Bali), Viliame Kikau (Fiji), Trent Merrin, James Maloney / Christian Crichton (Hawaii) all opting to head overseas.

There’s also the obligatory group of players who do an overseas trip together and this year’s no different with Isaah Yeo, Jack Hetherington, Jed Cartwright, Wayde Egan, Corey Waddell and Kaide Ellis, having opted for the USA experience where they even caught up with their interim NRL coach, Cameron Ciraldo in New York.

Speaking of James Maloney, Nine’s WWOS have reported that scans on Maloney’s troublesome neck injury which curtailed many of his performances during the second half of the season, have revealed the Panthers and NSW Blues five-eighth will only require minor surgery and should return to full training by no later than post-Christmas.

Finally in lower grades news, promising Panthers centre, Brian Too has re-signed for another two years, while there are suggestions that 2015 NYC premiership-winner skipper, Brent Naden, will return to Penrith after stints with Canberra and Newcastle.

See you at the game in 2019. #PantherPride

Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

GOLDEN POINTS

45 45

PENRITH PANTHERS

with MARK GEYER

“The Sea of Red” Tonga have arrived in test match footy!

T

 “The Sea of Red” Tonga have arrived in test match footy!

est match footy is back!! Over the past fortnight this was reinforced with firstly the Kiwis beating/upsetting the Aussies 26-24 in Auckland, then this past Saturday it was Tonga’s turn to take on the Aussies in Auckland.

What scenes awaited both teams last Saturday. The “Tongan Army” of supporters sea of red was a sight we haven’t seen in test match rugby league.

The sheer passion and pride on display was palpable. There was an air of an upset on the cards but Australia don’t lose two test matches in a row often (actually I can’t remember the last time we did) and most knew they’d be up for the contest given the New Zealanders upsetting us the week prior.

Mal Meninga had his charges primed and in the end ran away comfortable winners 34-16. But this was one test match where the scoreline meant zilch. This was ‘a moment’.

In what was the very first meeting between Australia and Tonga in a rugby league test the 27,000 strong crowd on hand were treated to an extravagance of sobering spirit.

Andrew Fifita called it ‘bigger than origin” after the game. A massive statement, but I get where he’s coming from. There wasn’t the angst shown between the two nations prior to the game that we see when NSW take on QLD, but in time that might grow.

Speaking of Fifita, it was he and Jason Taumalolo’s decisions last year to turn their backs on both Australia and New Zealand that has started this resurgence in test match footy.

After a successful World Cup last year Tonga have continued to be a viable option to any young Polynesian player thinking of whether or not to pledge his allegiance. We now have to see Tonga playing more test match footy against the Aussies, Kiwis, and Poms. The more we can fit test match rugby league into our rugby league calendar the better. And if last Saturday was anything to go by, Andrew Fifita’s origin comments may one day come to fruition.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 25 October 2018 Issue 238

MG on the mark

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