Nepeannews 26april2018

free Thursday, 26 April 2018

ISSUE 225

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Community cheers

The Jordan Springs community is cheering that the Hub, which has been designed to meet the educational, social and recreational needs of the whole community is now open. Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

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local news

By Keegan Thomson

Worship and Communion Sunday 9:30am

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EW flood evacuation signs will fill the nearby roads around the Nepean River after the state government revealed a slew of new measurements that are a part of the HawkesburyNepean Valley Flood Risk Management Strategy.

The blue and white signs will show drivers the safest route to higher ground away from an oncoming flood in the case of an emergency on the Nepean River.

Launching the new signs, MP for Penrith Stuart Ayres and MP for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said the public needs to be aware of the dangers of living in one of the most complex flood prone areas of NSW. “While we haven’t had a flood here for some time people can’t get complacent and these signs will help people to keep aware of the potential dangers,” Mr Ayres said.

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100 Penrith locals took a test run in a simulation to make sure they were suitable and understandable for all drivers.

“Evacuation is the key method to save lives in a flood emergency in the valley,” Mrs Davies said.

“The $1.8 million signage project will help direct people along key evacuation routes during a flood emergency,” she said.

The government also advocates for all residents living on flood prone land to have a flood survival plan, similar to that of a bushfire survival plan.

Six people died during the great Penrith flood of 1867.

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(Dedications, Wedding or Funerals by appointment) 48 Luttrell St Glenmore Park P: 02 47331133 W: www.salvos.org.au/penrith E: salvospenrith@gmail.com

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Flood route mapped

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

I

F you are a resident of East Ward or South Ward in the Penrith Local Government area, you will need to vote on May 12.

A vacancy on Council has arisen in each ward due to the resignations of two Councillors.

When we posted the news on the Nepean News Facebook page, I must say I was a bit surprised at how negative the comments were with regards to Council, elections and the democratic system in general.

MYTH: “Whoever we vote for will get in and raise our rates!”

All motions are passed as a majority rules. There are 15 Councillors. No single renegade Councillor can get in and then suddenly, magically your bill is through the roof.

MYTH: “They’re all just in to take the big bucks and do nothing” It might surprise you to learn the wage of a Councillor is around $500 per week. Not exactly the kind of wage that’s going to bring the Moet out every night is it?

MYTH: “There’s no need to vote, it is all rigged anyway.”

The amount of work that goes into ensuring every ballot is checked over is massive. There are what are called scrutineers on top of the polling booth workers who ensure everything is kosher.

MYTH: “What’s the point in voting, it makes no difference to my life” Wow, these people should really go and spend a year in a place like Eritrea, one of the most repressive places on the globe. No freedom of speech, no press and certainly no vote and say on how the place is run.

We are extremely lucky to live in a country where we get a say in how things will work. On May 12, get out and have that say!

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local news

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith joined players of Cranebrook Cricket Club to announce that six local sports clubs will receive a share of almost $50,000 in funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.

Stuart Ayres said that sport was the lifeblood of Penrith and investment in local sport was an important focus for the community.

Nepean Aquatic Centre Swim Club – $10,300 for the installation of new starting blocks and backstroke swimming ledges, Nepean Football Association - $5,000 for the purchase of referees headsets, Cranebrook Cricket Club - $5,000 for the purchase of uniforms and equipment, Emu Plains Hockey - $3,000 for new team uniforms and $1,064 for the purchase of new accounting, database and membership software, Nepean Ducks Gridiron - $5,000 for safety gear and training equipment, Emu Plains Cricket Club - $20,000 for the upgrade of cricket nets at Leonay Public School.

Anne Tierney, Cranebrook Cricket Club Secretary said I’m thrilled that we have been successful. This grant will assist us enormously in growing our little club.

“The program provides grants of up to $20,000 towards projects to assist regions with rallying the community together and ensuring ongoing involvement in sport,” Stuart Ayres said.

“The NSW government is committed to supporting grassroots sport and improving

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Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Boost for local sport S

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

Shree Swarup and Ishan Swarup (right) - Scott Jobling and Tahlia Govender (left)

participation rates across the state.

“We know that sport has many proven health, social and economic outcomes and I encourage eligible clubs to apply for the next round of funding.

“Projects that are eligible include upgrades to local amenities or improving access to facilities, training programs and community events.”

The next round of program applications will open in late 2018.

For more information visit, https://sport.nsw. gov.au/clubs/grants/localsport

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

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Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

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local news

Incinerator binned by Department of Planning

By Keegan Thomson

T

HE proposed energy from waste incinerator for western Sydney has been smoked by the Department of Planning at state

parliament.

After months of vocal protests from local residents and opposition for Dial-A-Dump’s development from all local state MPs the Department of Planning said the incinerator would go against the NSW EPA’s energy from waste policy and the air quality impacts and risks to human health were unknown.

The decision on the waste from energy facility will now go back to the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) where they will have the final say on the matter.

“The Department of Planning and Environment has found the proposed energy from waste facility at Eastern Creek should be refused and has referred the application to the Independent Planning Commission for final decision,” A spokesperson from the Department of Planning said.

“Key concerns were raised throughout the public exhibition period regarding the proposal’s impacts on local air quality, the risk to human health and the proposed facility’s proximity to residential houses.”

According to the government there were more than 1000 written responses from local action groups, councils and community members on the incinerator. A circulated petition received over 10,000 signatures.

Tanya Davies is the MP for the electorate of Mulgoa, the same electorate which the incinerator is planned to be developed in. She said she is happy to hear the results.

“I am unequivocally opposed to the Eastern Creek incinerator proposal and beyond pleased the Department of Planning has recommended the Independent Planning Commission refuse it,” Mrs Davies said.

“While the independent planning process has been drawn out and difficult, I urge the community to have confidence in it, and allow the IPC to follow due process and reject this proposal the right way – based on evidence. That’s the way we will see the end of this ridiculous proposal for good.”

MP for Penrith and Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres has also voiced his concerns against the project including during parliament, where he told

the government he didn’t support the incinerator.

Labor has stood up against the proposal as well, even going as far as to put a bill towards parliament that would deny any future energy from waste facilities being developed in the Sydney basin. The bill didn’t have the numbers to pass the house.

The energy from waste incinerator development will now go back to the IPC. They will deliver their final verdict on the matter within a number of months. The incinerator could prove to be a hotbed issue for the Berejiklian government who will be heading to an election in March 2019 so they will want to sort out the development as soon as possible.

253 new TAFE jobs for teachers

By Keegan Thomson

A

massive uptake in enrolments in trade qualification courses across the state has forced the state government to start a recruitment drive for TAFE teachers which will see more than 100 new jobs for TAFE teachers within western Sydney alone.

The MP for Penrith and Minister for Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres was on hand with the Minister responsible for TAFE NSW, Adam Marshall, as it was announced there will be a drive to create 253 new jobs across TAFE NSW. “Western Sydney is the beating heart of the state’s infrastructure agenda and is creating new job opportunities for a generation of skilled and dynamic young people,” Mr Ayres said.

The government says the construction boom across the state would require 21,600 additional skilled construction workers over the next three years to 2021, with 10,400 new workers needed in western Sydney alone.

Mr Marshall, Assistant Minister for Skills, said the drive to recruit more teachers will firm up the capacity at TAFE for the future.

“This Government is ensuring that TAFE has the capacity to train these additional workers, which is why we have established a TAFE Teacher Recruitment Taskforce,” Mr Marshall said.

“The Taskforce will recruit 253

new frontline teaching staff to skill up our workers of the future to build key infrastructure like schools and hospitals across metropolitan and rural and regional NSW.” The MP for Penrith said the $81 billion infrastructure program under

way across NSW was creating a skills legacy for the state.

“The most exciting infrastructure program in the country is being delivered right here, right now and we’re calling out for talented educators to ready a workforce to deliver the infrastructure of tomorrow,” Mr Ayres said.

“Students will gain a world class education to enable them to work on some of the most future focused infrastructure in the country, from underground tunnels to new public transport, hospitals, schools and a new airport.”

Shadow Assistant Minister for Education and MP of Londonderry, Prue Car says the government wouldn’t need a recruitment drive if they hadn’t previously cut TAFE jobs.

“The government would not have had to go on a recruitment drive had it not axed thousands of TAFE teachers and support staff,” Ms Car said.

“This is a band-aid solution for a problem they created.

“Since 2011 we have seen over 175000 fewer TAFE enrolments, 5700 teachers and support staff sacked, course fees through the roof and campuses across NSW closed,” she said.

local news Community Anzac ceremonies

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

HE beautification of High Street Penrith has begun, with roadworks commencing recently.

The works are expected to be carried out over the next few months and by the end of the year the street will have undergone a facelift.

The shops, cafes and businesses in High Street are open for business

as usual and the operators are excited about how attractive the street will look once completed.

Michael Creed, who owns Thor’s Cafe, said the improvements will really lift the appeal of the street.

“The street is going to look fabulous.

While the transformation is happening, people should park in Judges car park and come through the arcades to High Street,” he said.

Michael has a great offer during the roadworks, but you’ll have to head to Thor’s to redeem it!

NZAC marches and commemorative services were held in both St Marys and Penrith at the weekend.

The St Marys service was held at Victoria Park and had a very special guest by the name of Major Jaymi Matthews, a former St Clair girl. Major Matthews gave an inspiring speech and told of how she was the first female into a combat role in her Corps.

“We’re so proud to have her as a sub-Branch member,” said Tony Fryer from St Marys Sub-branch.

Tomas Hamilton authored and read a poem, his words delivered from the heart.

A march was also held in Penrith, followed by a service at Memory Park.

Lest We Forget.

Local Students recognised at Youth Awards Night

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Rotary Club of Nepean hosted its Annual Youth Awards Night at the Penrith RSL Club last week.

The function is held to acknowledge students from schools in the Penrith district. The students are chosen by their Principal and Year Leader as leaders within their schools in demonstrating community participation both within and outside of the school community.

Students who give their time to help with fundraisers and school activities that benefit both the charities involved and their fellow students.

The six recipients were: David Pletkan – St Dominics College Mikayla Morgan – McCarthy College Jarrod Everingham – Nepean Creative & Performing Arts Jacinta Rastegorac – Caroline Chisholm College Kieren Ha – Penrith Selective High School Maddison Locantro – Cambridge Park High School

The evening highlighted many of the Youth Programs run by The Rotary Club of Nepean such as RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment), RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness), NYSF (National Youth Science Forum) as well as hosting West Wyalong students for one week every year for Work Experience

and also sending 10-12 students from the Penrith area to West Wyalong to experience life in a country area for one week.

There was also a presentation from Jason Hudson who outlined how he was influenced by the RYLA Program and Salomé – the Club’s exchange student from France who has been hosted by the Club for the past nine

months.

If anyone would like to find out more about the great things that are achieved

by The Rotary Club of Nepean, please contact Aaron Tyers on 0418 226 679 or Frank Portelli on 0419 410 831. The Club meets every Monday morning from 7-8.30am at the Penrith RSL and are always looking for new members to help with these great projects.

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Business as usual

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ADVERTISEMENT

Your Local Labor Team MAY 12 P e n r i t h C i t y C o u n c i l B y- E l e c t i o n

robin cook

L A B O R F O R E A S T WA R D

CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY Raising her family locally, Robin understands what our community needs.

For over 20 years, Robin has worked in our local health system, working as a nurse at Nepean Hospital and the Tindale Medical Centre in Penrith. Robin has dedicated her life to caring for our community - she will do the same on Council.

Email: robin.cook@nswlabor.org.au

Where to vote: Banks Public School Bennett Rd Public School Blackwell Public School Clairgate Public School Claremont Meadows Pubic School James Erskine Public School Kemps Creek Public School Kingswood Public School Orchard Hills Uniting Church Oxley Park Public School Penrith Baptist Church Penrth PCYC St Clair Public School St Marys Memorial Hall St Marys North Public School St Marys South Public School

LIAM RANKINE L A B O R F O R S O U T H WA R D

A LOCAL WHO UNDERSTANDS Liam knows the challenges facing Penrith.

Born in Nepean Hospital and now living in South Penrith, he is a local who understands Penrith. Having attended Penrith South Public School and Jamison High School, and being involved in the Penrith RSL Soccer Club and the Glenmore Park Brumbies Rugby League Club, Liam is part of our community.

Email: liam.rankine@nswlabor.org.au

Where to vote: Emu Plains Public School Fernhill Public School Glenmore Park High School Glenmore Park Public School Jamison High School Jamisontown Public School Jamisontown Uniting Church Kingswood South Public School Leonay Public School Luddenham Public School Mulgoa Hall Nepean High School Orchard Hills Uniting Church (Mt Hope Uniting) Penrith PCYC Penrith South Public School Regentville Public School St Marys Memorial Hall Wallacia Public School

Pre-poll opens 30th April St Marys Memorial Hall or Glenmore Park Youth and Community Centre Authorised by Greg Davies 203 Banks Drive St Clair

PENRITH CITY COUNCIL BY-ELECTION

A

S you are probably by now aware, there will be a by-election held for two positions in the Penrith Council Local Government Area. The positions are in East Ward and South Ward.

Residents in North Ward do not have to vote.

The election will be held on Saturday 12th May. If you will be out of town or unavailable to vote on the 12th, there will be pre-polling for the two weeks prior to election day.

Pre-polling can be done at St Marys Memorial Hall or Glenmore Park Youth and Community Town Centre from April 30 to May 11.

On election day, East Ward residents can vote at the following polling places: • Banks Public School • Bennett Rd Public School • Blackwell Public School • Clairgate Public School • Claremont Meadows Pubic School • James Erskine Public School • Kemps Creek Public School • Kingswood Public School

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

May 12: Do you need to vote?

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• Orchard Hills Uniting Church • Oxley Park Public School • Penrith Baptist Church • Penrth PCYC • St Clair Public School • St Marys Memorial Hall • St Marys North Public School • St Marys South Public School On election day, South Ward residents can vote at the following polling places: Emu Plains Public School

Fernhill Public School Glenmore Park High School Glenmore Park Public School Jamison High School Jamisontown Public School Jamisontown Uniting Church Kingswood South Public School Leonay Public School Luddenham Public School Mulgoa Hall Nepean High School Orchard Hills Uniting Church (Mt Hope Uniting) Penrith PCYC Penrith South Public School Regentville Public School St Marys Memorial Hall Wallacia Public School

BELINDA

ADVERTISEMENT

HILL FOR EAST WARD Hi East Ward Residents, I don’t believe people like to be told “vote for me.”

It’s my thought, that people like to know why they should vote for one candidate over the other.

My answer is results.

Who, out of your two candidates are going to get you the results you want and deserve? I will.

I am already achieving a significant amount of results for our ward by asking “How can I help?”.

So far, I have answered over 700 queries.

My focus as your Council representative will always be to fight to deliver: • lower rates • more parking • better community and sporting facilities Please have a look at some of the requests and results on my candidate’s page on Facebook. Belinda Hill - Penrith Eastward, you can also email me on belinda@bisthill.com.au if there’s anything I may be able to help you with.

VOTE 1 BELINDA HILL ON MAY 12 Authorised by Ross Fowler Liberal Party of Australia, NSW Division, 11 Tindale St, Penrith NSW 2759.

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

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PENRITH CITY COUNCIL BY-ELECTION

Candidates for the May 12 Sue Day | Independent - South Ward

O

N her third attempt at running for Council, Independent candidate Sue Day is convinced she has what it

takes.

Outlining her reasons for running in the Council by-election, Ms Day said it is time to hit the “reset button” and bring a fresh independent perspective to Penrith Council.

“Enough is enough,” Ms Day said.

“The long-term Councillors have been promising a bright future for years, and just look around Penrith now, they’ve failed to deliver.

“Penrith Council has been under the control of the major parties for far too long. Both sides are as bad as each other, together, they have failed to deliver critical infrastructure to support the massive growth,” she said.

Being a proud local, Ms Day sad she wants to make sure the public are at the front and centre of all decisions made at Council.

“All planning must have people in the centre of decisions,” Ms Day said.

“People are telling me they are frustrated especially, with the major parties. They deserve to be the priority in the decision-making process and they’re not.

“I know people want someone on Council who will stand up and fight for what is right for them and not party politics. I guarantee to hold the major parties accountable, especially for all the stupid decisions that have created the local issues we currently have,” she said.

If elected liveability will be a key focus for Ms Day. “I want to make Penrith the number one place to live, work and play. For this to happen, Council needs to be reshaped. Priorities need to change, It’s time for action. We need to make sure growth in Penrith is sustainable and not done at any cost. Our future depends on it,” she said.

Liam Rankine | Labor Party - South Ward

A

LWAYS a background player in elections, Liam Rankine is Labor’s number one pick for the job in South Ward because of his experience. Despite working on a number of election campaign this will be Mr Rankine’s first run for elected office.

If elected Mr Rankine will be the youngest person currently sitting on Penrith Council, and by running for Council he is trying to break the stereotypes that some residents hold about the younger generation.

“I don’t want to sit back and complain, I want to get involved and make a difference,” Mr Rankine said.

“As a young person I believe we need more diversity on Council.

“Penrith is a growing city and Council is preparing Penrith for the challenges of the future. It is only right that young people have a say in these changes,” he said.

Growing up in South Penrith, Mr Rankine went to school at Jamison High and has been involved in local sports clubs for a number of years. His youth and experience in Penrith has him wanting to bring a new approach to Council.

“I will bring fresh ideas and energy onto Penrith Council,” Mr Rankine said.

“I will stand up for Penrith and ensure Council is working to protect our community,” he said.

Outlining the issues he wants to advocate for in Penrith, Mr Rankine said he will make sure the region is put first on all decision making matters.

“We have new developments coming online which require better solutions from Council,” Mr Rankine said.

“Our region is also changing rapidly with the arrival of the Western Sydney airport on our doorstep. I want to make sure we are getting the best deal possible,” he said.

Brian Cartwright | Liberal Party - South Ward

L

IVING in the region for nearly 30 years, Brian Cartwright is a former member of the RAAF and is a current Vice President of the RSL Sub-branch in Penrith.

What has motivated Mr Cartwright to run for Council is his desire to positively impact the community.

“I’m keen to ensure Council delivers for its ratepayers,” Mr Cartwright said.

“I think Penrith deserves a Councillor with realworld life experience, who knows what it takes to work hard and raise a family,” he said.

Working for over three decades in the defence force, public and private sectors as well as owning a small business, Mr Cartwright says that he has the skills to deliver on Council.

“With the planned growth and development underway in Penrith, I will be a strong advocate to ensure that we deliver the right services at the right time, whilst focusing on minimising the impact to

residents and businesses during the delivery phase of these important services,” Mr Cartwright said.

With Council Mr Cartwright wants to take advantage of every opportunity given to the region. He wants to work with state and federal governments to deliver grants and funding.

“As a parent of children who played numerous sports across the area, I understand the importance of quality sporting fields and facilities. I am keen to guide the council on getting the maximum benefit from the recent NSW Liberal announcement of $100 Mil fund to be invested into community sporting fields across Sydney,” he said.

Another thing important to Mr Cartwright is he would like to see better, smarter management of Council rates.

“I want to keep rates lower by ensuring Council provides efficient delivery of services for the people of Penrith,” Mr Cartwright said.

PENRITH CITY COUNCIL BY-ELECTION Robin Cook | Labor Party - East Ward

S

EEING a position on Council as a way to give back to the community, Robin Cook says she is running because of her passion for Penrith.

St Marys and the local area has been home to both Ms Cook’s parents and her own family for two generations and she says there are big changes ahead for Penrith in the future.

“I have seen many changes over the years and believe there are both exciting and challenging times ahead,” Ms Cook said.

“There is a need to guide, reassure and get the best possible outcome for our community. This was the driving force for me to stand as a proud candidate for East Ward,” she said.

Previously Ms Cook has worked as a nurse in the local area and of recent she has held a position in the office of MP of Lindsay, Emma Husar. She says her life experience of the region will allow her to work well on Council.

“My work as a nurse in the local area, and more recently working for the Federal Member for Lindsay has given me first-hand knowledge of the various issues and concerns confronting our community,” Ms Cook said.

“As a resident, parent and now carer for an elderly parent, I have a personal understanding of the difficulties people face getting around and accessing vital services.

“I am taking nothing for granted, but if elected I will be an advocate for all who live and work in this wonderful region,” she said.

If she’s elected, Ms Cook said she would like to see more essential services like a RMS office brought to East Ward.

“Inclusiveness and improved accessibility to services and facilities for residents, improved parking and continuing the revitalisation of our towns are what I will advocate for,” Ms Cook said.

Belinda Hill | Liberal Party - East Ward

B

USINESSWOMAN Belinda Hill has her eyes set squarely on the community of East Ward. LAST week she launched her campaign on Facebook, reaching out to a number of local groups, asking them what she can do for the community.

“I have already burst into action as a candidate, to ensure our council can interact with the community, simply by asking on a few social media platforms ‘how can I help you?” Mrs Hill said.

Mrs Hill declared herself as a go-getter by saying, “you can’t effect change sitting on the sidelines yelling.”

“I am doing the work that the East Ward community deserves to be done on their behalf,” Mrs Hill said.

“Our community members only have a handful of people who represent them on council. I would like to work with all Councillors to ensure we achieve positive outcomes for our community,” she said.

Mrs Hill is already working on a community

Suburbs who need to vote on May 12

program she would like to introduce.

“The aim of the program is to promote community pride. I want people to be proud of where they live,” she said.

The program will include prizes for best gardens for an entire street, most luscious lawns, best community events organised by locals. Mrs Hill said the aim of it is to get people to say, “I love living in Penrith”.

“I am tired of hearing us being compared to other suburbs in Sydney,” Mrs Hill said.

“Our area and its community members are first class, so let’s build that pride and show the rest of NSW exactly what they are missing out on,” she said.

I have been completely humbled by the warm response I have already received from the community.

While I am, at this stage, only a candidate, I highly value the way everyone has interacted with me in good faith.

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Penrith Council by-election

By Keegan Thomson

11

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

12

local news

Mother and daughter make plastic fantastic

By Keegan Thomson

J

ESSICA Melville is a year 5 student at Trinity Primary School in Kemp’s Creek who has taken up the Plastic Fantastic challenge being run by The Creative Fringe in Penrith.

Curiously, Jessica asked her mother Melissa Melville what she was doing when she noticed her cutting up plastic bags and turning them into plarn, plastic yarn.

Mrs Melville explained to her that she was participating in the Plastic Fantastic Challenge being run at The Creative Fringe, and that the bags were going to be made into sleeping mats for the homeless.

When Jessica heard that it takes on average 700 plastic bags to make a sleeping mat, she took it upon herself to do something. Approaching her school, Jessica stood up in front of the school and requested that friends and students bring their discarded plastic bags so she could create more plarn.

“I was really shy and now speaking to the school has given me confidence,” Jessica said.

“It was really good. I went up on assembly and it was awesome to get so many bags back,” she said.

Since then Jessica has been swamped with plastic bags by students who all want to do a good thing for the environment and make a homeless person’s life a little bit more comfortable.

Jessica was inspired to act to help out the homeless and rough sleepers because of the people she sees on the streets of Sydney. She said seeing homeless people breaks her heart.

“Every time we go to the city I see lots of poor

people and it makes me feel really sad,” Jessica said.

“I thought that this would be a good idea to get more plastic bags so we could get more mats made for people.”

Taking the hundreds of plastic bags home, her dedicated mother spent every spare moment she had cutting and connecting pieces of plastic bags to make up plarn.

Their goal was to create enough plarn to make one full sized sleeping mat. When this was achieved they humbly delivered their plarn balls to The Creative Fringe where volunteer crocheters would be set to turn into sleeping mats.

This is far from the end of Jessica’s community minded endeavours.

Mrs Melville recently told The Creative Fringe she still has a lounge room full of plastic bags that she will continue to turn into plarn. Jessica has now had to stand up in front of the school again, this time to thank them all for their support and to ask them to stop bringing her bags.

“I am so proud of the initiative Jessica has shown during this process, taking the idea to school standing in front of all the students and getting them all on board - its a big deal” Mrs Melville said.

Once the plastic bag mats have been made The Creative Fringe will donate them to Mama Lana’s Community Foundation who will in turn give them to their rough sleeping patrons.

If you want to get involved jump onto The Creative Fringe’s website where you can learn how to make a mat or learn how to turn plastic bags into plarn.

Hadley Park gets heritage listing

H

ADLEY Park, one of the oldest farming estates in Australia, will be listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, Minister for Heritage Gabrielle Upton announced alongside Stuart Ayres, MP for Penrith.

The property was once home to Charles Hadley, a pardoned convict who settled in the Castlereagh area and began building his estate within 20 years of the first fleet arriving. It has had a long association with the Hadley family who, until recently, occupied Hadley Park for around 200 years.

Ms Upton said the property on the floodplain of the Nepean River is one of Australia’s oldest farming estates and an example of one of the earliest European land grants.

“Charles Hadley’s residence, surrounding dwellings and farmhouses were some of the first of their kind built in the area,” Ms Upton said.

“Today they contain rare and intact evidence of some of the earliest colonial building methods in Australia.”

Minister for Planning and Housing, Anthony Roberts, and the National Trust of Australia (NSW) each nominated the listing.

Mr Roberts said the listing of Hadley Park ensured protection for

the significant property into the future.

“This is one of the oldest early colonial properties in NSW and now generations to come will be able to learn from an important part of our history,” Mr Roberts said.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres welcomed the addition of Hadley

Park to the State Heritage Register.

“It’s only right that such an important part of Penrith’s history is properly protected and placed on the State Heritage Register,” Mr Ayres said.

“Hadley Park’s rich history will now be secured for future Western

Sydney generations.”

As well as its colonial history, the Heritage Council of NSW recognised the potential for a range of archeological features and deposits related to Aboriginal occupation of the area. Hadley Park was gazetted on Friday 20 April.

Mother’s Day feature

F

IND mum a gift that she’ll cherish forever this Mother’s Day in store at Jamjo Home and Gifts in St Marys.

Established in 2013 Jamjo Home and Gifts has a whole range of thoughtful and sentimental homeware gifts on offer at Jamjo Home and Gifts including something for even the most difficult to buy for mums.

For the mum who enjoys a little wind down with some slow and relaxing scents you can pick from an extensive range of candle products including brands like Ecoya, Palm Beach and Be Enlightened.

Jamjo Home and Gifts has a range of glass tea light holders from the always beautiful Koh Living line. Some of the exclusive patterns and styles include European cities

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Gifts that mum will cherish

13

and Australian native wild flowers.

For all the glamorous mothers you can pick from the range of exquisite Crystal Carving bracelet range. The latest season’s scarfs have arrived at Jamjo with some of the range selling for as low as $5.95.

The team at Jamjo Home and Gifts offer complementary gift wrapping with all purchases so you don’t have to stress about any last minute wrappings.

Everyone who spends over $10 also receives a Jamjo’s Reward Voucher that can be used to receive great discounts on future purchases. Ask in store for more info.

Visit Jamjo Home and Gifts at 116 Queen Street, St Marys open weekdays 9-5 and Saturday 9-2.

Perfect gifts for

Mother’s Day • Home Decor • Wall Art • Candles • Scented Flowers • Glassware • Jewellery • Scarfs • Cushions

116 Queen St St Marys | Ph: (02) 9623 1327 | Find us on

www.jamjohomeandgifts.com.au

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

14

Mother’s Day feature Each year, one special day is dedicated to celebrating the most wonderful women in our lives;

our mothers!

Written by Douglas Ely - Designer/Jeweller

There are a million ways to spoil mum this Mother’s Day; from breakfast in bed, helping with the housework or even giving her the afternoon off, it’s a great chance to show our mums that they are extra special.

Of course one of our favourite ways to spoil mum is to shower her with gifts as a way to say thank you for all that our mum’s do for us. Handmade cards, perfume, a spa retreat or even a new dressing gown, every mum deserves to be spoilt in any way we can.

For a gift that lasts forever, jewellery is the classic choice. When it comes to jewellery, rose gold is well and truly on trend. Rose gold, with it’s pink undertones, is the natural complement to pair with any skin tones. A combination that never fails is the pairing of rose gold and pastel gemstones. Morganite and rose gold works together in any piece to showcase beautiful soft pink hues.

Filigree jewellery is also popular current trend within the market. Filigree work is created in rose, white and yellow gold. New filigree jewellery ranges include earrings and pendant sets. Filigree jewellery features an affordable price point and designs range from fl oral to geometric. Argyle diamonds are still very popular across the Australian market.

The Dreamtime range incorporates design features from Aboriginal art as well as incorporating the subtle beauty found naturally across the Australian terrain. In this collection rose, yellow and white gold frame Australian Argyle diamonds in unique ways that pays homage to the Australian landscape.

For the mum who loves to share her story, Pandora jewellery allows the wearer to compose their own one of a kind pieces. This Mother’s Day, Pandora are offering a gift giveaway Simply spend over $150 on Pandora products and have your choice of one of two bracelet giveaways.

Your Flower Boutique Mother’s Day

I

NSTEAD of forgetting the flowers this Mother’s Day make sure you place in an order with Tayla at Your Flower Boutique.

Place your orders in early to make sure you’ll have your perfect bunch of flowers or floral gifts for May 13, Mother’s Day. The artisan store set up in Erskine Park showcases gifts including house plants, Palm Beach Candle collection, thoughtful Mother’s Day giftware, hampers, balloons and homeware.

There is something for every mum in store.

Flowers are a must and you can be the reason why mum feels special this Mother’s Day thanks to Tayla at Your Flower Boutique.

Select or order mum’s favourite flowers and they’ll be ready for pick up before mum’s special day, deliveries can be arranged as well.

At Your Flower Boutique you can pick from favourite such as a variety of chrysanthemums, roses, carnations, gerberas, lillies, orchids, tuliups. Have mum’s flowers displayed in cute vases, lavish arrangements or a beautiful bouquet or simply and stylish posy.

Call Tayla at Your Flower Boutique on 9834 4273 to place an order.

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

16

local news

Nepean therapy dogs lend a paw

By Keegan Thomson

N

E P E A N Therapy Dogs is leading the way in human and animal connections to help assist sick people in hospitals and victims of crime.

Working for the last 25 years in the Nepean and western Sydney region, the therapy dogs have provided relief and some cuddly, furry support to hospital and palliative care patients, nursing home residents, troubled school children and in numerous court room settings.

Nicole Celeban is the President of Nepean Therapy Dogs and is the owner of four Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Regularly Mrs Celeban takes her pups in a pram to Nepean Hospital for visits.

“When you enter a ward sometimes people are hesitant to talk with one another, because they’re feeling a little bit down and glum,” Mrs Celeban said.

“But when you bring in the dogs there is a shared commonality and a fresh new energy that is brought into the ward and suddenly everyone is talking and laughing together.

“It is a really good way to get people connecting and share their own personal experiences in a place that is often hard to connect people,” she said.

TJ Smith and Nicole Celeban with the therapy dogs. Photo: Keegan Thomson

The reason why Mrs Celeban takes the dogs in the pram is because it adds an extra element of playfulness to the dog’s visits as well as for practical, safety and health benefits.

All up Nepean Therapy Dogs has over 40 dogs and 50 volunteers who assist with administration, fundraising and who take dogs around to places that they’re needed.

Hospitals aren’t the only place that therapy dogs are used, commonly they are also used in courts, often they are sitting with a witness as they give evidence and during cross examination.

Jess* was involved in a traumatic

court case over a sexual assault when she was younger. She used the therapy dogs to comfort her during the stressful case.

“I had two dogs with me, they sat next to me and on my lap during the questioning,” Jess said.

“A few times I had anxiety attacks but the dogs calmed me and helped me stay focused and peaceful.”

After being diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder, Jess knew she was going to have a hard time under questions in the court room so she asked for the accompaniment of two therapy dogs throughout her cross examination and questioning.

“Having the dogs with me helped me share my experiences and keep me calm when I retold my story,” Jess said.

“I knew the court was going to be stressful so I asked for the dogs to be there so they could offer me some comfort.

“If anyone is experiencing a traumatic court case when giving evidence then they should consider having the therapy dogs, especially for young children,” she said.

Throughout the court case a volunteer from the Nepean Therapy Dogs was on hand to look after the dogs if anything became too stressful for the animals.

Mrs Celeban said the tireless work of the dedicated volunteers make the work of the Nepean Therapy Dogs so much easier.

“It is our volunteers that make Nepean Therapy Dogs so special.

Without our volunteers we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” Mrs Celeban said.

“Because our volunteers believe in the charity and they believe in the work, we can keep doing what we do and continue to help the community,” she said.

If you would like to volunteer your time or your dog’s time you can contact the Nepean Therapy Dogs at contact@therapydogs.com.au. *Last name withheld.

Positivity for puppies Positive experiences and positive reinforcement are the best means of encouraging your new puppy to develop into a happy, relaxed and social dog.

Socialisation is the process of developing positive relationships with people and other animals. The most important time for socialisation is very early in your puppy’s life, the first 3-4 months. To prevent antisocial behavior, fear and aggression it is best to provide frequent positive social experiences in a wide variety of situations during this time. Start with calm introductions to one or two people or pets at a time. If your puppy handles this well then increase the number of people, noise level and activity level. Puppy preschool, visiting friends and family with vaccinated animals are great safe socialisation options.

Sometimes people are told to keep their puppy home until they have finished their vaccination course. This is important to discuss with your veterinarian as risks do exist but the window when dogs are most receptive to new experiences is often over before the course is finished. At different stages of the vaccination protocol more outings are allowed.

The risk of puppies developing behavioral problems

from lack of socialisation is more common than diseases in the general population. To maintain good social skills continued exposure is still required as they age.

Puppies may be scared of new things especially those that make a lot of noise like car travel, traffic, power tools, people riding bikes or scooters and children. Children are normally more noisy, active and unpredictable than adults. Being safely exposed to these will help puppies remain calm and learn they are not scary.

During exposure to new people, pets or experiences encourage calm behavior by distraction with pats and treats and keeping sessions short. It is important to not overwhelm your new puppy and ensure experiences are not negative. If you cannot calm them in a new situation, something is very scary or they display an unwanted behavior then do not force them. They may not be ready for a room full of excited children, a dog park full of dogs or to have all their nails clipped. Praise calm behavior by

saying they are good in a quiet whisper. Try to avoid situations that result in unwanted behaviors like barking, jumping or biting. Do not use punishment or correction. It is a common misunderstanding that when an animal reacts to punishment, a raised voice or correction they look guilty and they know what they have done wrong. They are simply reacting to your tone and body language and it will increase anxiety. Puppies are like us, they learn better when they are calm not stressed.

Rather than punishment or correction, try an alternative way of dealing with the situation. For example, if a puppy jumps up when greeting new people, get the puppy to sit and have the new person give them a treat. If a puppy bites a lot, redirect this onto toys and avoid playing with their heads and mouths with your hands. If a puppy struggles when you try to hold them to cut their nails, try getting another person to distract them with treats and pats, then without holding the puppy gently touch only one foot at a time. You can even start with just cutting a single nail and trying again later. If they get over excited or scared when seeing a new dog on a walk, cross the street and give them a buffer zone or you can get them to sit and give them treats and praise as the other dog walks by. Puppies do not need to come into direct contact with another person or animal, seeing them at a distance is still socialising.

Think about what you would like your puppy to do and positively encourage that.

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

Phone 47 313 055

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

The Orchid & The Crow

D

aniel Tobias grew up in a Jewish-atheist household. In 2004, he found out he had stage-four testicular cancer and went searching for god. Any god. Enter Lance Armstrong, seven-times winner of the Tour de France and legendary cancer survivor. Lance Armstrong’s story gave Daniel solace and hope when he needed it. Now of course, Armstrong is a fallen angel and after Daniel’s full recovery, he wonders – how many times will he be cheated by a god? This is a story about being let down by your heroes and those who you worship – time and time and time again.

Daniel effortlessly draws us into the inspiring tale of his near-death experience in this funny, uplifting story of faith, family and survival. Part storytelling, part-theatre featuring original songs from the award-winning writers of Otto & Astrid this is an original, accessible, brilliantly clever and ultimately moving story that audiences have described as ‘life-changing’. The play deals with rarely discussed themes in an entertaining, theatrical, accessible and comical form.

Winner Best Writing Cabaret 2016 Green Room Awards Created and performed by Daniel Tobias Composed by Daniel Tobias and Clare Bartholomew with John Thorn,

17

Casey Bennetto and Jherek Bischoff Directed by Christian Leavesley Lighting Design Lisa Mibus Script Consultant David Quirk Produced by Critical Stages and Salvador Dinosaur Suitable for audiences 15 and over Duration 70 minutes, no interval Playing at The Joan Friday 18 May 7.30pm ONE SHOW ONLY! Friday 18 May, 7.30pm.

Tickets: Standard $45, Concession $40, Under 30s $30 or subscribe & save!

Don’t miss out, get your tickets now!

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 People of faith (9) 6 Male reproductive cell (5) 9 Entrails (7) 10 Scented (7) 11 Anagram of “Deserts” (7) 12 Homosexual woman (7) 13 Committing an act of

treachery (9) 15 Bearskin (5) 16 Empower (5) 19 Disaster (9) 22 Capuchin monkey (7) 23 Slid (7) 25 A loose African men’s

tunic (7) 26 Artist’s studio (7) 27 Abominable snowmen (5) 28 Homesick (9)

DOWN 1 Constructed (5) 2 Merciful (7) 3 The joined continents of Europe

and Asia (7) 4 Made easier to bear (5) 5 Limelight (9) 6 Husbands and wives (7) 7 Strange or rare objects (7) 8 Mislead (9) 13 Fortunately (9) 14 Added into a group (9) 17 Putting money into your account (7) 18 Issues an injunction (7) 20 A fire-breathing monster of

Greek mythology (7) 21 Barking in a high-pitched tone (7) 23 Large amounts (5) 24 An order of classical Greek architecture (5)

solution 12/4/18

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

WORD SEARCH

THE WIZARD OF OZ WIZARD JUDY GARLAND MUNCHKINS DOROTHY GALE

SCARECROW TIN MAN TOTO COWARDLY LION WATER GLINDA

WICKED WITCH AUNT EM MELTING UNCLE HENRY RUBY MONKEYS

SUDOKU: HARD

ENTERTAINMENT

18

SOLUTION: 12 April

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

HOT & COLD BUFFET BREAKFAST 8.30AM - 11AM ADULT $20.00 CHILDREN $10.00 2 COURSE LUNCH OR DINNER $22.00 PER HEAD CRISPY SKIN SALMON, HALF RACK OF RIBS, CRUMBED CUTLETS OR CHICKEN & AVOCADO SERVED WITH CHIPS & SALAD OR MASH & VEG PLUS A FRESH CAKE SELECTION FREE FACE PAINTING 1PM - 3PM KIDS EAT FREE LUNCH & DINNER 3 X $100 PAMPER PACKS DRAWN ON THE DAY/NIGHT 02 4736 4647 THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

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S N A I D E M 10 CO FOR $22 7.15PM , Y A M 2 1 Y A D R U T SA

Different line-up of comedians every show.

John Flynn will not be performing.

Tickets $22 (including GST) from reception or $20 online at www.comedysydney.com | 18+ Only

Mother’s Day raffle

Drawn Sunday 13 May, 2018 7pm Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5

2 nights for 2 people (or 3 nights week days) at the

OAK RESORT - Salamander Bay plus $500 SPENDING MONEY

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS

LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10 MONDAY Schnitzel Night $12.50 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Coffee & Cake $8.50 THURSDAY Kids Eat FREE (conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

WEDNESDAY 23 MAY, 11AM Once again the Gaels Club is hosting The Biggest Morning Tea and we invite you to join us Enjoy a free Tea or Coffee when you buy a Cupcake, Raffle Ticket or Make a Donation

All donations go to the Cancer Council

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

FRIDAY Saturday 27 APRIL - 8PM 28 APRIL - 7PM SIDESHOW MARTY’S ANNIE PLACE

SUNDAY 29 APRIL - 5PM BLACK WATER

FRIday 4 MAY - 8PM TIME MACHINE

SATURDAY 5 MAY - 7PM MUDDY FEET

SUNDAY SUNday SUNDAY 6 MAY - 1-5PM 6 MAY 6 MAY- 1-5PM - 5.30PM banter Soul Soul Jamz Jamz

NEPEAN HISTORY

Marmalade for the Troops, 1914

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

20

By Jack Brooks Blacktown and District Historical Society Inc

E

ngland declared war on Germany on 4th August 1914, and Australia quickly followed. Within a month, the orchardists of Seven Hills, Baulkham Hills, Kellyville and Dural were assisting the war effort. They freely contributed fruit to be manufactured into marmalade for the troops going to the front. The idea of presenting jam to the Defence Department originated with Mrs Perry of Baulkham Hills. She passed her idea on to the Committee of the Patriotic League, who in turn took up the matter with enthusiasm. Mrs Perry personally supervised the whole proceeding.

The whole jam making session appears to have been completed, in the open air, in one day. Two old photographs in The Cumberland Argus dated September 5, 1914, show men, women and at least one child amongst an array of large drums, buckets and tins of various sizes. The women dressed in long dresses, long sleeve blouses and large hats and can be seen stirring various ingredients in the large drums and buckets with long wooden stirrers. Men can be seen lifting the larger receptacles and pouring out the contents. With the men dressed in long trousers, long sleeved shirts, ties and waistcoats, it all looked very formal from a modern day perspective.

When the marmalade was ready, it was poured carefully into tin canisters and glass jars. Albert Horwood undertook the soldering of canisters, assisted by Bert Cook and Mr Mills. That was surely a tedious job! The ladies who assisted in keeping “the pot boiling” were Mrs Briggs, Brien, Murrell, Horwood and Burton. Misses Best, Perry and Pearce also assisted. Three men, Mr Mills Snr, Stutchberry and Murrell provided muscle power.

Upwards of a ton of marmalade was made, tinned and despatched. The sale of surplus material (firewood, sugar and fruit) amounted to about £10, which went to the Patriotic Fund, as did the money from the sale of surplus marmalade. The following firms contributed to the successful operation : Colonial Sugar Company for 10 cwt of A1 sugar, Richard Hughes and Co for 1

gross of 10 pound canisters, James Robertson and Co for 1 gross of seven pound canisters, Lyon and Milling for 1 gross glass jars, Harvey and Co for solder for the tins, Miss McEwen for covers for the jars, Messers Jenner and Best for firewood. Mr Woodyatt, the carrier, transported the one ton of tinned marmalade to its prearranged destination.

A neat label adorned each tin, printed by The Cumberland Argus, stating the contents came “with best wishes from Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Kellyville, Seven Hills, Dural etc, NSW Australia.”

One wonders if those tins of marmalade from the Hills District reached Gallipoli, France or Palestine, or were the contents savoured by the young soldiers as they sailed to their individual fates.

A few weeks after the patriotic efforts of the local orchardists, a public meeting of Seven Hills citizens took place to open a patriotic fund. The President was George Best, the Honorary Secretary J Eager and the Treasurer T G Mayes. Nine gentleman and five ladies formed the committee. A fund was opened and £17.5.0 was paid in and promised. Patriotic songs were sung by Mr T Davies of the Davies Quartette Parramatta and Miss Newis was the accompanist. Money poured in and a patriotic concert and dance was held at the Blacktown School of Arts early in October 1914. Blacktown, it was stated, “is determined to do its part in raising money for the soldiers.”

Villages and towns throughout the country opened patriotic funds and official lists, showing donations, regularly appeared in newspapers.

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02 4737 9977

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

T

he U/9’s Penrith Panthers ‘Lynx’ Teeball team had a fantastic season this year in the competition run by the Greater Western Baseball Association.

The Lynx’s were undefeated all year and wound up the season with a win by an innings in the Grand Final.

Their statistics for and against for the normal season was 350 runs for and 213 against for a difference of +137.

Teeball is played just like it’s ‘big brother’ baseball, however there are modified rules to allow the players to adapt to the game, until their skills develop e.g. the ball is not pitched, it is batted from a tee.

Tiffany Cooper, the coach of the Lynx team spoke about how lucky she was to coach the team and how proud she was of their efforts all season.

“Coaching is an Incredibly rewarding job, Ken and myself have been lucky enough to work with an amazing group of kids who we have been able to pass on our baseball knowledge too,” she said.

“To say we are proud would be an understatement, these kids showed up each weak with fire in their bellies and pushed themselves every game to achieve some amazing results.”

Lynx had 11 team members, 10 boys and one girl. Player rotation ensures everyone gets to field and bat each week.

A feature of the games is the ‘ceremony’ of shaking hands before and after the game and acknowledging the supporters of both teams with a raising of the baseball caps.

Of course, a win is celebrated with the caps being thrown in the air.

The Grand Final received a special celebration as the team performed the victory ‘dance’.

Tiffany also spoke about how the team will be challenged next year and the most rewarding part of coaching the children.

Coach’s Corner

Over Coaching and Over Parenting in Junior Sports

Firstly I would implore all parents and coaches involved in junior sport to watch the following HBO documentary: https://vimeo. com/108600855 It should provoke some thoughts and opinions in regards to how parents and coaches approach junior sport.

What importance should we place on winning in junior sport? Shouldn’t development and enjoyment be our sole focus?

The majority of winter junior sporting competitions have or are about to commence. This should be a very exciting time for all children involved. However this enjoyment is often hijacked by a ‘win at all cost’ mentality from some parents and coaches involved at the junior level.

Unfortunately this selfish mentality often ruins the dreams and love of sport for young athletes who just want to participate and play with their friends.

Coaching should be all about

ensuring the players are enjoying themselves and learning as much as possible. If the players are learning and succeeding in the skills and drills they are practicing they are more likely to enjoy their sporting experience and therefore continue to play the game.

Training should be structured and designed in order to meet these simple needs of junior players regardless of the sport in which they are participating.

We have all come across the junior coach who treats game day like a professional match. If you are that coach ask yourself: How much control do you have over the result once the game commences? Little, if any.

With that said and as hard as it can be, you need to place zero emphasis and importance on the results your team achieves each weekend. The challenge for coaches is to ensure competition and competitiveness is created internally within your team environment. This takes the emphasis off winning and losing each weekend.

Ask yourself two simple questions in order to evaluate your training sessions and game results: Did the players enjoy themselves? Are the players learning and improving both individually and as a team? If you can honestly answer yes to both questions you are doing an outstanding job.

As a coach measure yourself on the development and improvement of your players.

We have all come across the parent who is constantly discontented in the style of coaching, results of the team and the individual success of their child. The parent who will constantly shout instructions and feedback to the team during games or bark at the referee for certain decisions. If you are that parent ask yourself: What example am I setting for my child and is the behaviour I am displaying appropriate for the junior sport environment?

At the junior level it is the growth of individual players which will naturally improve each team. As a parent do

“The next challenge for us will be pushing these kids into the Minor League baseball competition next season which will see us playing two years ahead of where we should be,” she said.

“To go from teeball to live pitch in such a short period of time will definitely be a challenge but definitely one Ken and I are happy to take head on with an amazing bunch of kids.

“The most rewarding thing I find as a coach is turning up each week and having kids that are so willing to learn and gain as much knowledge as they can about this fantastic sport.”

Winner of the best player as voted by parents each week on a 3-2-1 basis was Tyler Oldfield. The most improved was Chad Woolerton and the coaches award went to Jack Berwick. Although, these three won the awards the rest of the team deserves credit for their efforts and team work throughout the season.

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com not place unrealistic expectations on your child. Make sure you set a good example by encouraging each and every player in the team. Support the players and encourage them to have fun, listen to their coach, respect the referee, learn as much as possible and to place zero emphasis on results.

Allow the players to play, the coaches to coach and the referees to referee. As a role model for your child your job as a parent is to be supportive and set the right example.

The focus of parents and coaches involved within junior sport should be to teach young athletes the importance of a strong work ethic, the ability to have fun, to build positive relationships with their team mates and coaches and also their willingness to listen and learn. If these positive habits and behaviours can be instilled within players from a young age the platform is going to be laid for the best possible future both in sport and in life.

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Lynx: our local undefeated champion side

23

Celebrity

ROUND 8

ROUND 9

STG MEL SOU MAN PAN GCT NQC PAR BRI new PAN CAN NZW CRO STG SYD SYD NZW BRI NEW BUL CRO CAN WES BUL sou NQC GCT WES PAR MEL MAN April 25 4.10pm

April 25 7.00pm

April 26 7.50pm

April 27 6.00pm

April 27 7.55pm

April 28 5.30pm

April 28 7.35pm

April 29 4.10pm

May 3 7.50pm

May 4 6.00pm

May 4 7.55pm

May 5 3.00pm

May 5 5.30pm

May 5 May 6 7.35pm 2.00pm

May 6 4.10pm

SCORE

Jeff Watson - Club President, St Marys Band Club - 9623 1211

64 Sharon Spindler - Aussie - 0449 954 497

76 Romano Garofali - Nepean Pools - 4722 9201

52 Victor Glanville - Vic’s Maxi Transport - 4732 2195

66 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 1300 897 170

64 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

60 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

62 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

68 John Thain - Penrith City Mayor - 0411 427 812

64 Iris Russell -Benard VenueBratusa Manager, Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4466 Councillor

64 Thor Thor’s- Cafe Aaron- Tyres @print- 4721 0292

68

TIPSTERS ROUND 8

ROUND 9

STG MEL SOU MAN PAN GCT NQC PAR BRI new PAN CAN NZW CRO STG SYD SYD NZW BRI NEW BUL CRO CAN WES BUL sou NQC GCT WES PAR MEL MAN April 25 4.10pm

April 25 7.00pm

April 26 7.50pm

April 27 6.00pm

April 27 7.55pm

April 28 5.30pm

April 28 7.35pm

April 29 4.10pm

May 3 7.50pm

May 4 6.00pm

May 4 7.55pm

May 5 3.00pm

May 5 5.30pm

May 5 May 6 7.35pm 2.00pm

May 6 4.10pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

54 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

62 Councillor Aaron Duke - 0404 085 981

58 Peter Zaccazan - Zac Homes - 1300 350 793

50 Paul Wallace - Property Central - 0412 272 407

60 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

66 Emma Husar - Member for Lindsay - 4722 0600 - www.emmahusar.com.au

60 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

58 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

52 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

66 Sharon Mudiman - Bespoke Realty Group - 0413 757 998 Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

62

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

26

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

WILL INJURY PREMATURELY END JOSH MANSOUR’S BRILLIANT PENRITH CAREER? As we go to print, Josh Mansour’s immediate playing future should become clearer as he has finally has surgery to repair what club doctor Norm Southern has described as the worst cheekbone injury he has seen in nearly forty seasons.

While club legend Greg Alexander last week revealed the severity of the injury suffered in a collision with Titans winger Anthony Don, coach Anthony Griffin is hopeful that provided Mansour does not require a bone graft to replace missing bone fragments, the winger should be back by round 1920.

However should Mansour require a bone graft, he faces a longer recovery period (four-six months) which could mean the off-contract Panther may have played his last game for Penrith.

Given the number of promising players required to be re-signed by the club over the next 12-18 months, the club said to be struggling to come up with a pay deal in line with his standing as an Origin and Test winger.

But that’s all to be sorted for a later date and in the meantime all the best for a speedy recovery Josh!

I love “against all odds” win stories as much as anyone but what about the headlines praising Cronulla’s ability to win despite their crippling injury crisis?

Yes they were missing the likes of Paul Gallen, Wade Graham and Jayson Bukuya, while Luke Lewis left the field early on with another calf injury.

But it was lost on most that the Panthers have more of their top 30 unavailable to injury than any other club – Tyrone May, Tyrone Phillips, Corey Waddell, Sam McKendry, Tim Browne, Nathan Cleary, Waqa Blake and now Josh Mansour.

Bad news is there isn’t likely to be much respite any time soon for Griffin despite May and Phillips being set to return via the ISP coming weeks.

Meanwhile concerns remain for Jed Cartwright, who continues to struggle with his comeback from a groin injury, having been restricted to just two 20 minute appearances in the past fortnight.

Provided scans clear Wallace of a serious neck injury, expect the skipper to play his 100th NRL game for the club this Friday night against the Bulldogs, while Tyrone Peachey will also play his 100th NRL game, 93 of them as a Panther.

“As soon as there is a try or a break in play Jimmy pulls us together, telling us what we need to do.

“Penalty kicks, sets and everything it just flows which makes it easier for someone in a different position to just step in and play.

“Jimmy’s doing a brilliant job without Nathan there as well, it’s almost like we’re not even missing him.

“But once Nath comes back it’s going to get even better.”

“Surgery will determine whether Mansour will play again in 2018.” Credit: 77 Media

While the careers of injured duo Sam McKendry and Tim Browne hang in the balance, the Panthers have been linked to premiership-winning and Queensland Origin prop from the Melbourne Storm, Tim Glasby.

Should the club actually sign Glasby, it will be a second coming for the Queenslander, having started his career as a Panther in the junior reps and Holden Cup. While much off-field talk has centred on Penrith’s battles to retain Nathan Cleary, should the rise and rise of Viliame Kikau continue, the Fijian international, who also comes off contract at the end of 2019, will be in high demand from rival clubs, placing further pressure on the club’s salary cap.

Which promising Panther forward could be on his way to another club before June 30?

James Maloney may have missed the world record for most successful goal kicks in Penrith’s recent win over the Titans but as Corey HarawiraNaera explains, the playmaker could easily have a future as a NRL coach such is his influence on the field.

“Obviously Jimmy Maloney has brought a lot of experience and he’s like another coach out there on the field,” Harawira-Naera told Nepean News.

“Wallace, he’s making 50 tackles a game so it’s really hard for him to talk much because he’s really puffing most of the time.

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Speaking of Harawira-Naera, the makeshift centre who put together the most unusual of posttry celebrations that are played on game days at the ground and on social media, has out done himself this time with his latest offering making its debut not once but twice in the win over the Titans.

But the Kiwi centre says he isn’t sure whether or not he can bring his dance to the post-match victory song just yet, despite the fans loving his on-screen antics.

“I cop it off the boys but fans love it so I just get on with it,” Harawira-Naera revealed.

“All my cousins back home ask what the heck am I doing. But it’s just a little bit of fun.

“I would like to jump in there and do it during our team song.

“But I’m not that confident if I do try to do it in there. I think I’ll just let Mez (Merrin) do his thing.”

This columnist was critical of the NSWRL a fortnight ago when it was announced Penrith would play week one at Leichhardt Oval while Manly were allowed to host finals for both their rep sides despite their inferior finish to Penrith on both competition ladders.

But in some overdue recognition of Penrith’s results in 2018, the NSWRL has made a terrific decision to allow St Marys Stadium to host the junior rep preliminary finals, which will see Penrith aim to win their way into both Harold Matts and SG Ball grand finals (see Repeat Sets for more details).

If you have any Panthers news you would like to share with confidence that it will remain confidential then feel free to email me at stewart@nepeannews. com.au Get out to the game and show your #PantherPride.

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PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

By STEWART MOSES

T

@TheRiffMarn

hat’s the question many including Penrith’s makeshift centre was asking in the wake of scoring his second try in his first NRL appearance in the position in 29 games.

Harawira-Naera was named to play back-row with the ever-reliable Isaah Yeo not surprisingly named as the injured Waqa Blake’s replacement at centre.

But it was evident that HarawiraNaera emerged from the sheds to take up a spot in the centres instead, a position he had not played since Holden Cup days.

And no one was more than surprised than Harawira-Naera at the ease in which he scored his second try.

“There must be spiders (on me). I don’t know what happened, I was just about to throw it back and I found no one on me when I turned around and the try line was right there,” HarawiraNaera told the Nepean News.

“I’m happy to get off the nudie, but I’m more happy I was able to do a decent job out there covering for Waqa.

“I’m not used to playing there now

(as) I was a bit lighter back then in 20s days, but I learned from it.

“I’m just grateful with the opportunity Hook has given to me to put me there.

“He could have put someone else there.”

Whilst surprised yet delighted to have scored twice, Harawira-Naera says it was just a relief to be back playing 80 minutes again, adding that he feared losing his spot in the side after spending the pre-season in rehab recovering from shoulder surgery.

“I haven’t played 80 (minutes) all year but I probably didn’t have to do as much work as I do in the back-row, that probably helped me,” HarawiraNaera replied.

“My lungs weren’t burning as much as they normally would be.

“I was just lucky to get in the team Round 1.

“I was coming back from a shoulder injury.

“I was in rehab the whole time but I was still watching and felt a bit jealous.

“So I came back a tad early but I did work hard and I didn’t want to lose my spot.

“But I’m grateful the coach gave me a couple of runs in the first couple of games just to get my confidence back and slowly he moved me into the team.

“Wherever he needs me I’ll play.

As long as everyone keeps winning and everyone turns up for each other, it’s all good.”

Despite the hiccup in losing to Cronulla last Sunday, the Panthers continue to sit high up the NRL ladder in third position.

That strong start to the season despite an ever-increasing injury toll can according to HarawiraNaera be attributed to having what he views as the club’s best ever pre-season preparations coupled with the desperate desire shown by many of the rookies in making their debuts.

“I guess we’re wanting it a bit more than other teams now which is showing on the scoreboard,” Harawira-Naera declared.

“I’d put it down to pre-season which is probably the best pre-season we’ve had since I’ve been here which is a few years now.

“The boys put in all the hard work, got a lot of K’s in the legs and are turning up to games playing hard.

“Yes there’s been a few boys dropping through injury.

“But everyone like Crichton, Ellis, Egan (and Hetherington) are just coming in, doing a good job in taking over and picking up the positions.”

Corey Harawira-Naera is all smiles at scoring his second try. Credit: 77 Media

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Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Harawira-Naera: Were there Spiders on Me?

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Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

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PENRITH PANTHERS

Jack’s NRL debut continues family’s fine league traditions

By STEWART MOSES

P

@TheRiffMarn

a n t h e r s forward, Jack Hetherington became the 577th player to don the Panthers jersey in first grade in making his NRL debut last Sunday against Cronulla, expanding upon a fine family tradition in the sport.

Grandfather Bill Mullins, was a premiership-winner winger who scored over 100 tries for the Sydney Roosters in the 60s and 70s.

Father, Brett was a premiershipwinning forward with the Canberra Raiders before finishing his 142 game NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys.

Then there is cousin Brett Mullins, dual premiership-winning fullbackwinger with Canberra and Sydney Roosters in a career that resulted in 122 tries from 209 NRL games, plus Australian and NSW representation.

Both “Pop” and “Dad” were on hand to witness the family’s latest addition to the NRL ranks at Southern Cross Group Stadium and gave the Valentine Devils junior plenty of advice.

“Pop and Dad were here. Pop made the trip from Young, Dad came down from Newcastle. I’m really lucky that they were able to come down and watch,” Hetherington told Nepean News.

“They were pretty rapt when they found out. Told a few stories about the glory days and re-lived their experiences.

Panther #577 Jack Hetherington nervously awaits making his NRL debut from the bench. Credit: NRL Photos.

“But (importantly) they just told me to keep my head, stay composed, go out there and play footy as best as you could.”

Ear-marked from an early age as a player of considerable talent by his former club, Sydney Roosters, Hetherington was brought to the club

by Phil Gould AM in 2016.

Having missed the 2016 Holden Cup Grand Final (suspension) and 2017 Intrust Super Premiership (injury), Hetherington finally experienced some joy when he made his return in the NRL State Championshipwinning team a week later.

But last Sunday’s NRL debut is easily Hetherington’s biggest moment to date, admitting he is still coming to terms playing alongside players he

idolised as a kid.

“I’m still trying to get my head around it. Unfortunately we didn’t get the win but it was a good experience and something I won’t forget,” Hetherington replied.

“It’s unreal just to be playing with the big boys, that I used to watch when I was young kid like James Tamou, Trent Merrin, Jimmy Maloney.

“They welcomed me into the side with open arms.

“It’s been unreal and I’m just glad to be a part of the team now.”

Coach Anthony Griffin revealed after the loss to Cronulla that Hetherington, who is equally at home playing in the middle or on an edge, was almost picked to make his NRL debut the previous week against the

Titans ahead of fellow NRL debutant Kaide Ellis.

But it is understood that Hetherington was overlooked given he had played just the one ISP game after returning from a two-week suspension and needed more game time in the ISP. Hetherington initially thought that when Griffin made the call to give him the good news, he was instead calling to tell him he was 18th man for the Sharks clash.

“I was kind of shocked when Hook called me up last Thursday,” Hetherington admitted.

“I thought he was going to tell me I was 18th man but instead he said he had a spot for me.

“I shit myself when he told me but I was really happy all the same.

“I’ve had time to wrap my head around it since but I am still pretty shocked about it all.”

Hetherington, who was presented his jersey pre-game by club legend, Jim Jones, says he tried to follow what Ellis had done the previous week against the Titans, adding that the biggest difference to playing NRL during his 19 minute stint from the interchange bench was its speed, not its physicality.

“Kaide’s a quality player so I just tried to follow what he’d done the week before and play hard,” Hetherington said.

“Physically wise it (the NRL) wasn’t any different to playing NSW Cup but it was definitely quick.

“The speed of the play was an experience I’ll never forget.”

Richmond Golf Club Take Out WSRVGA Inter-Club

Action from the WSRVGA Inter-Club event at Springwood Country Club - photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

By Noel Rowsell

O

ne hundred and fortyone senior golfers teed up at Springwood Golf and Country Club Friday 20th April, in the latest round of the Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfer’s Association (WSRVGA) 2018 InterClub competition.

Richmond Golf Club proved the strongest club on the day with a tally

of 144 points, albeit winning by the narrowest of margins by edging out Springwood Country Club on a countback.

The winning quartet for Richmond were Noel Byles, Colin Cheyne, Frank Gal and Denis Pickering.

In the team and individual events, the winners were as follows: Men’s 2BBB: Winners Barry Beauvais / Barry Polinsky (Springwood) 45 points on countback;

Runners-up David Bailey / John Ross (Glenmore) 45.

Medley 2BBB: Winners - Gary McSullea / Sue Evers (Springwood) 44 points; Runners-up Elaine Williams / Diana Bowen (Dunheved) 42.

Men’s A Grade Singles: Winner - James Boyd (Springwood) 37 points; Runner-up Bruce Beechey (Dunheved) 36 c/b.

Men’s B Grade Singles: Winner

- John Ross (Glenmore) 37 points; Runner-up Ray Forster (Penrith) 36.

Men’s C Grade Singles: Winner David Knox (Wallacia) 36 points c/b; Runner-up Andreas Nonas (Wallacia) 36.

Ladies: Winner - Judy Loader (Stonecutters) 38 points; Michele Campion (Glenmore) 34.

The next round of the Inter-Club competition will be held at Penrith Golf Club on 25th May.

PENRITH PANTHERS

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

BOGEY SIDE SHARKS ENDS PENRITH’S BEST START SINCE 1999 On the back of a strong 35-12 win against former Panthers lower grade coach, Garth Brennan’s Gold Coast Titans the previous Sunday, Penrith briefly flirted with second place and went into last Sunday’s clash with co-1967 rivals Cronulla knowing that a win would give Anthony Griffin’s men a surprise share of the ladder with the Dragons and Warriors.

But alas the Panthers (5-2) remain in third, as they were a fortnight back after a patchy performance from Penrith resulted in a 26-22 loss to Cronulla at Southern Cross Group Stadium, after trailing 10-6 at half-time despite dominating territory and possession.

Unlike previous weeks where the Panthers on the back of their new-found resolve in defence have conceded just 13 points per game, it proved to be their undoing against a desperate side missing key players in Paul Gallen, Wade Graham and Jayson Bukuya, which was not lost on coach Anthony Griffin post-match.

“We were a bit loose. We got our defence wrong a few times on kicks and transition,” Griffin lamented.

“The opposition were very good, desperate with their defence.

“But they got a few tries they shouldn’t have.

“We had a fair bit of ball and we had a chance to build pressure and pin them in their corner.

“But we just couldn’t get that side of our game right.

“They applied a lot of pressure to us and we didn’t handle it that well at times.

“Dugan split us there once and we give away penalties.

“I thought at half time we were still obviously well in the game.

“But when they got that transition straight after half time and Dugan went seventy metres and they scored from that, it sort of changed the game.

“We’d surge and look like we were going to get on top.

“But then they’d wiggle out of it and get a try which kept putting the game away from us.

“We got a lot of things wrong with our execution but we were still in the game right up to the last minute but we’ve come up short.”

The loss to Cronulla win over Parramatta came a week after a strong 35-12 win over the Titans which was overshadowed to a large extent by the shocking injury to Josh Mansour which has put his season in limbo.

despite Luai’s try off a magical Egan pass setting up a grandstand finish.

This Saturday Penrith travel south to WIN Stadium Wollongong to take on the St George Illawarra Dragons before enjoying the bye next week.

“James Maloney led from the front against the Titans but wasn’t able to get the Panthers across the line last Sunday against his latest ex-club.” Credit: 77 Media.

Once again the win was built off the back of stellar performance from James Maloney, who ran riot after half time setting up tries for Dylan Edwards and Tyrone Peachey.

Corey Harawira-Naera also made the most of his surprise switch to the centres instead of Isaah Yeo for the injured Waqa Blake, scoring two tries in his first 80 minute effort of the season.

Post-match Maloney offered an insight to the media about how Penrith planned to get through life without Nathan Cleary.

“I just sat down with the coaches and said ‘this is what we need to do to make it work,” Maloney explained.

“I told them how I’d like to do it and together we nutted out a simple system.

“We looked at the strengths of the side and came up with a very simple structure that we run over and over again.

“I can’t spend all my time telling blokes where they need to be. So we’ve fallen into a simple plan that can be tweaked here and there.”

Having defeated Canterbury 34-16 in impressive fashion the previous Sunday at Panthers Stadium, Penrith also missed a golden opportunity to grab a share of top spot in the Intrust Super Premiership, after going down 16-14 to Wentworthville Magpies, their second loss in as many meetings between the pair.

Having come into the game missing Liam Martin (quad) and Tom Eisenhuth (18th man – NRL), the Panthers did well to trail 6-4 at the break.

But despite having hit the lead 8-6 soon after the break, the Magpies responded with two tries of their own, which proved to be the difference in the end

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JUNIOR REPS RESULTS / FIXTURES: Jersey Flegg: def. by Canterbury (Round 6) 244; def. Parramatta 18-14 (Round 7). Currently in 4th position on for / against with five wins, two losses.

Next Up: v St George Illawarra (Round 8 – WIN Stadium Sat Apr 28 11am).

SG Ball: def. by Newcastle 18-6 (Finals Week 1); def. Canberra 30-18 (Finals Week Two).

Next Up: v Cronulla (Finals Week 3 – St Marys Stadium Sat Apr 28 12pm).

Harold Matts: def. by Newcastle 16-14 (Finals Week 1); def. Canterbury 38-4 (Finals Week Two).

Next Up: v Manly (Finals Week 3 – St Marys Stadium Sat Apr 28 10:30am).

Tarsha Gale: def. Sydney Roosters 52-14 (Finals Week 1); def by. Newcastle 50-12 (Finals Week Two). Defending premiers eliminated.

Coach Anthony Griffin admitted after the Round Seven defeat to Cronulla that there were no likely returns from Penrith’s burgeoning injury ward for the short turnaround clash with Canterbury this Friday night at Panthers Stadium.

With ANZAC Day changing this edition’s printing requirements prior to actual team announcement, the squad barring any changes, is expected to be as follows (actual numbers may differ): 1. Dylan EDWARDS 2. Dallin WATENEZELEZNIAK 3. Corey HARAWIRA-NAERA 4. Dean WHARE 5. Christian CRICHTON 6. Tyrone PEACHEY 7. James MALONEY 8. Trent MERRIN 9. Peter WALLACE (c) 10. Reagan CAMPBELL-GILLARD 11. Viliame KIKAU 12. ISAAH YEO 13. James FISHER-HARRIS 14. Sione KATOA 15. Jack HETHERINGTON 16. Moses LEOTA 17. James TAMOU 18. Jarome LUAI 19. Nick LUI TOSO 20. Wayde EGAN 21. Kaide ELLIS Then the following Friday, it’s off to Bathurst for Penrith’s annual home away from home game when they take on Johnathan Thurston’s North Queensland Cowboys for the second time in 2018. #PantherPride

29 29 Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

Repeat Sets

SPORT

Nepean News 26 April 2018 Issue 225

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PENRITH PANTHERS

MG on the mark with MARK GEYER

A season that is almost impossible to predict

 Who will hold the trophy aloft come Grand Final day?

The only thing I can predict with 100 per cent confidence in the current season of the NRL is its unpredictability!

Man oh man, talk about a year of surprises. And I love it!!

At the start of the year before a ball was kicked or touched by a player, I had Warriors coming last. I also had the Tigers running second last. I didn’t have St George or Souths in my top 8. I had the Bulldogs coming 5th. I had the Cowboys winning the comp. But I did have them playing Melbourne, so maybe ONE of my prophecies might come to fruition.

I know we’re only 7 rounds into a 26 week competition but honestly, trying to tick who wins each week in this comp is harder to pick than a broken nose.

How’s your tipping comp looking? The bloke in sales from Melbourne or the lady in accounts from Scotland leading by a mile?

It seems the more of a novice you are when it comes to this current rugby league season the better off you are when deciding who wins week to week.

Before you know it origin will be upon us with that 6 week period being usually the easier time to select a victor, given which teams have certain players missing.

But you watch, that’ll be even a harder tipping time.

I’m loving the Warriors form this year, I’m loving the dogged footy the Tigers

 I need this bloke (Nostradamus) to help me with my tips

and Knights are playing. I’m loving watching new players at their new clubs thriving and I love seeing games played in country areas.

Of course we can all find fault in our game, it’s the way of life in which rugby league as a sport is one great big soap opera, but you wouldn’t want it any other way would you?

With 7 rounds in the bank and my predictions so far failing miserably, let me have a go at the next 7 weeks.

Ok, this time come round 14 the Rabbits will be leading the competition. The Storm will be right behind them. The Panthers will be exactly where they are now in 3rd. With the Warriors making up the top 4. I think the Sea Eagles will be bottom of the ladder, just below the Bulldogs and Titans, and NSW would have just won state of origin 1 over QLD with 3 Panthers starring and Josh Ado Carr scoring the wining try close to full time.

But don’t bet on it.... see you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

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