Nepeannews 27april2017

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Thursday, 27 April 2017

ISSUE 199

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localnews Introducing “My Business Program” which is an opportunity to unlock local opportunities and is the fine work of the Penrith CBD Corporation in conjunction with Nepean Community College Centre for Office productivity.

Penrith CBD Corporation members worked collaboratively with Nepean Community College last year on the FREE Barista Course, awarding Nationally Accredited Statements of Attainment to over 30 local workers in the CBD. With the success of the first round of Barista training, they have ventured into another round of FREE training fully founded by the NSW Dept. of Industry, The Penrith CBD is evolving into a dynamic city centre, with over 4,000 residential accommodation properties under construction in the CBD, and Penrith City Council is working on a night-time strategy.

Collaboratively, Penrith CBD Corporation and Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce is partnering to achieve economic growth for small business. Being able to offer skills training to assist our local businesses is a fantastic opportunity and one not to be missed!

Nepean Community College has a 28year history of developing programs to meet community needs and is thrilled to be working with the CBD Corporation to develop and recognise the skills in the in the CBD to strengthen Penrith vision as the New West.

This round will include the opportunity to “Unlock the Opportunities” for their business and staff with skills training on:

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

Contact: (02) 9673 1009

www.newhorizonschurch.org.au

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Unlock your opportunities

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 Coffee anyone? Nepean Community College CEO Eric Wright, Stuart Ayres MP and Gai Hawthorn from Penrith CBD Corp

Barista, Next Level Marketing Tips Budgeting For Success Stand Out Customer Service Getting The Message Out – Branding Stuart Ayres MP said it was great for the local community.

“With the growing local population and ongoing promotion of Penrith as a destination for visitors, the benefit of having qualified baristas and skilled staff to support this growth is a win for our community,” Mr Ayres said.

Sessions are FREE and available through April and May, to register call Stephen on 02 47 249000 or email svella@ncc.nsw.edu.au or search google: Eventbrite for Penrith CBD Corp and register on line NOW. Penrith CBD proudly supporting small business.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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From the Editor’s Desk

4 Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

by Kerrie Davies

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Keegan Thomson 0421 382 560 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Tom Carey 0425 803 180 Kennedi Geyer 0452 455 844 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

Check www.nepeannews.com.au for complete list of distribution outlets

It’s about time Waleed Aly joined Team Australia.

I’ll declare straight up that I am not a fan of this bloke.

I find him to be the most irritating person on television and at times while he’s been mid-sentence I have clicked my remote button with as much ferocity as I can muster to get him off my screen as quickly as possible.

I would think that most Aussies would be cheering that Prime Minister Turnbull has tightened the criteria and citizenship tests for future citizens of this country.

The world is full of differing cultures. It is a fact that some practices within certain cultures are not in line with life here in Australia. So it is vital that we are crystal clear on what is and what isn’t acceptable in Australian society.

Its important for our country that those choosing to live among us integrate, share our goals as a nation and contribute to our future. It’s also incredibly important for our safety.

No matter where you go - be it school, the workplace or even the local RSL club - there will be rules on the type of behaviour that will not be tolerated.

Strengthening the citizenship test with new and more meaningful questions that assess an applicant’s understanding of - and commitment to - our shared values and responsibilities, is apparently something Waleed doesn’t think new migrants should be subjected to. He claims it “sends a message that these are problems that only exist in migrant communities.”

Give us a break, mate.

Thanks, Captain Victim, but I don’t think you need to be so patronising we are fully aware that our own are capable of committing crimes, we just want to attract law-abiding citizens.

So what is it that you’re asking for Waleed? That we brush over the rules in a soft and gentle fashion, in order to look like we wouldn’t dare suggest a migrant would ever be capable of committing a crime here? Or should we take them out altogether, in case those rules might offend?

Do we want people who would be offended by our expectations living here?

For goodness sake Waleed, stop waving the victim flag and for once in your life proudly wave our flag - and be part of TEAM AUSTRALIA. Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Twin Creeks set to shine The NSW Open Golf Championship has found a new home and will once again be an integral part of the 2017 Australian summer of golf.

The Graham Marsh designed Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club, will host the NSW Open for the next three years. This year’s tournament will be held from November 16th to 19th, the week before the Emirates Australian Open.

Rated inside Australia’s top 100  Clrs Ben Price, Mark Davies, Greg Davies with Mayor John Thain Golf courses, the formidable par 72 and Stuart Ayres MP layout at Twin Creeks will provide “Golf NSW appreciates the ongoing support a solid test to the game’s best professional and of the NSW Government and Destination NSW, amateur golfers alike.

“The 2017 NSW Open will once again be Penrith City Council and Twin Creeks Golf and an ideal lead-in event for golfers immediately Country Club,” Mr Fraser added.

Mayor of Penrith City Council, Cr John before the Australian Open,” Andrew Tharle, Chairman of Golf NSW said. “Fans of the Thain, was thrilled to see the tournament land sport will be treated to two weeks of world- in the City “It is the first time this prestigious event class tournament golf in our Nation’s greatest will be held in Penrith, and we look forward city.”

Stuart Fraser, CEO of Golf NSW, to a fruitful and ongoing partnership with Golf acknowledged the support of the Championship NSW. I welcome all visitors, players and their families to Penrith, the Adventure Capital of from the Western Sydney community.

“In 2016, The NSW Open attracted a field of NSW,” he said.

Competitors in this year’s tournament will over 150 national and international competitors as well as upwards of 5000 spectators to our be playing for a total prize pool of a minimum State and the greater Western Sydney area. This of $400,000. The Champion will not only lift year will be no different; our goal is to ensure the Kel Nagle Cup, but he will also be exempt that the NSW Open grows and will always for the remainder of the 2017 season and the be a healthy and viable part of the Australian following two years on the ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia. sporting Calendar.”

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MP

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Funding for local heritage and the Nepean River

Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has marked this year’s National Heritage Festival by announcing a $40,000 grant to the Blue Mountains Council to undertake conservation work on state heritage listed Lennox Bridge.

The council will receive $40,000 over two years for a stonemason to undertake the restoration work on the bridge, which is the oldest on mainland Australia.

“Looking after our heritage is everyone’s responsibility and communities play an important role in maintaining and promoting heritage locally,” Stuart Ayres said.

“Our local heritage speaks to our history so it is important to protect, promote and celebrate it.”

Councils, Aboriginal organisations, peak heritage

organisations and owners of heritage items across the state were awarded a share of $5.4 million in grant funding under the NSW Government’s Heritage Grants Program.

Penrith Council also received two heritage grants over two years totalling $23,000.

“These two grants will go towards the cost of a local heritage advisor who will provide advice to the council on local heritage planning and conservation, and a locally run small grants program to encourage the community to protect their local heritage,” Mr Ayres said.

Heritage Minister Gabrielle Upton said this heritage funding was vital for communities to protect their heritage.

“I encourage people to use this week to explore

their local heritage. There are a number of National Trust NSW Heritage Festival events running from 18 April until 21 May for people to celebrate our state’s heritage,” Ms Upton said.

Willow Warriors will also receive a $5,000 grant from Ms Upton’s conservation fund to help tackle black willows, an invasive weed, in the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment.

The conservation group will paddle waterways within the catchment to poison and prevent the weed from growing. The money will be used to educate landowners about eradicating the weed and to help maintain and purchase equipment for the group.

“This is a great example of a community project helping make a difference to our local environment, protecting the Nepean River,” Stuart Ayres said.

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Have a say Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies MP, would like to invite the community to provide feedback on a proposal to carry out night work on Mamre Road at St Clair between the M4 Western Motorway and Erskine Park Road.

“The NSW Government is funding essential maintenance work at this location to improve safety for motorists and reduce the need for ongoing future maintenance,” said Tanya Davies.

Work will involve removing and replacing asphalt and repainting road markings along Mamre Road.

To minimise the impact to motorists, work is proposed to be carried out for up to five nights a week for eight weeks.

An alternative schedule involves working up to two nights a week, which would extend the project to 16 weeks.

“For both proposals work hours would be between 8pm and 5am, excluding Saturdays and public holidays, with noisier activities such as jack hammering completed by 11pm to minimise the impact to residents and businesses,” said Tanya Davies.

Feedback on the preferred work option can be provided to the project delivery partner DownerMouchel by Sunday 7 May by writing to DownerMouchel – Night Work on Mamre Road, St Clair, PO Box 6465 North Ryde NSW 2113 or emailing nsw_projects@ downermouchel.com.

Parking returned to Allen Place

 Parking returned to Allen Place car park following a 10-week project.

By Kerrie Davies

67 car spaces have been reinstated for use at the Allen Place car park, with an additional 23 new spaces built in the ramp footprint.

The reinstatement of this parking follows the completion of a 10-week project to remove the ramps and elevated car park at Allen Place and the bridges over Station Street.

“The Allen Place project has been delivered on

time and on budget, lessening the impact on Penrith residents,” said Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain.

“The delivery of 90 parking spaces, including 23 new spaces is a great result.

“The removal of the ramps, elevated car park and bridges has created a safer environment for our local businesses who operate near Allen Place and for residents who use this car park,” said Cr Thain.

The ramps were closed in March 2015 due to safety concerns, with recent deterioration making them unsalvageable.

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Vehicles that overcome challenges for those less mobile

Photos: Kennedi Geyer

By Kerrie Davies

PEOPLE in wheelchairs and their carers know all too well how challenging it can be to get in and out of cars in order to complete the daily tasks like shopping and doctor appointments.

And Al Palmer knows it too, so he sells an assortment of wheelchair vehicles perfect for those with mobility

challenges.

A friendly family-run business located at 4 Robertson Place in Penrith, Al Palmer Repairs has been servicing the local community since 1974.

With a focus on pleasing their customers, this is the place you should head straight to if you or a family member is in a wheelchair. There are many options available.

“We stock and can supply mobility

vehicles to accommodate three people, four people and right up to seven people, we also have vehicles that carry one or two wheelchairs. Some vehicles have side wheelchair access or rear wheelchair access, some of our vehicles even come complete with a wheelchair,” Al said.

“We are always happy to give advice and try to overcome any problems.

“After seven years of supplying

vehicles to the market place we have lots of experience. We can demonstrate more than one type of mobility vehicle in order to determine which vehicles is most suitable for many different situations.”

Call in and ask for Al to discuss options on how you can make life a bit easier getting around. These vehicles are very impressive - you’ll be glad you did!

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Rochelle Summerfield: a wayfarer on the Nepean!

On exhibition until the end of May, Rochelle Summerfield – A wayfarer on the Nepean pays tribute to the mighty Nepean River and the Great River Walk.

From her home base beside the Clarence River in Grafton, Rochelle finds inspiration in riverscapes, and was strongly drawn to the Nepean – so much so she camped at the nearby riverside caravan park during her three-week artist’s residency last

December. Each day she walked or bicycled from the caravan park to The Gallery along the banks of the Nepean River.

Rochelle’s artworks puzzle over ideas on identity and transformation through paradox - “The more we domesticate the landscape the more we search to find connection to the ‘wild’ in ourselves and in nature” and her experience of the Nepean River was one of contradiction and love.

Her latest exhibition A Wayfarer on the Nepean is no exception. Perhaps a true wayfarer herself –a nomad who travels on foot - Rochelle has allowed herself the time to extend her practices of drawing, collage and animation.

Rochelle’s plucky red-shoed heroine – a recurring protagonist - makes an appearance again, this time situated within the rich, lush riverscape of the Nepean. Her powerful, contemporary female form is far greater than the sum of her collaged parts as she defies body image and injects a cheeky spark of humour into the work.

Working with classic media such as pencil drawing, oil pastel and the cut and paste of collage, Rochelle has played, experimented and combined media with new technologies like photography and digital media and recently animation to create A Wayfarer on the Nepean – currently on show at the Penrith Regional Gallery & the Lewers Bequest.

Open seven days a week 9am – 5pm. Entry is free.

A day in the life of... Penrith’s state MP

By Keegan Thomson

NO matter what side of politics you sit on everyone is always willing to dish out their opinions of politicians, with the majority of those opinions swaying towards the negative side.

Stuart Ayres, the State MP for Penrith and the Minister for Sport, Western Sydney and Wesconnex, manages some portfolios that tend to draw out polarising opinions from within the community, but he deals with them in a professional manner.

There is no denying Mr Ayres is a hard working politician with a very busy job, but he is also a proud member of the community of Penrith and western Sydney.

“Western Sydney is at my core,” Mr Ayres said.

“My approach in life is don’t sit on the sidelines and complain about things, get on to the field and have a go.”

From the get-go Mr Ayres’ reasons for running for the state seat were simple: he wanted to improve the region of western Sydney.

“I watched this community not get its fair share of things, so I decided to get out and have a go and I ended up winning an election,” he said.

“I love what I do. Each morning I’ll get out of bed with a huge amount of enthusiasm.”

The MP for Penrith is very proud of his morning routine.

“I’m out of bed around 5:30. I’ll check out the newspapers first thing and then I’ll have a chat with my media advisors,” he said.

“Then I’ll have some cereal. At the moment my favourite is Milo chocolate cereal. For a couple of

years I skipped breakfast but now it is a core of my day.”

Being both the MP of one of the most dynamic seats in NSW politics and the Minister for three portfolios, Mr Ayres said his days on the job are never the same.

“There isn’t ever a ‘MP for Penrith day’ and a ‘ministerial day’, they’re constantly interacting with one and other,” Mr Ayres said.

“I could be in a ministerial meeting and there could be an issue back in Penrith that I need to deal with, or I could be in Penrith and something happens in my portfolio that needs to be sorted.

“Sometimes I might start out in Penrith and then move around the state, other days I might start somewhere outside the area and then work my way back here.”

Mr Ayres has now been MP for Penrith for the last seven years and shows no sign whatsoever of slowing down.

He said his continued stamina levels are due to his numerous support teams and staff at his multiple offices.

“You build a bit of resilience over time. You’ve got to be able to move across issues relatively quickly,” he said.

“Locally, in Penrith, I’ve got a fantastic team in my electorate office.

“They’re the support team that sits behind me as the local member and as the minister, and they allow me to do the things that I can do for the local area.”

Currently Mr Ayres is juggling a couple of big challenges across the region and across his portfolios.

“Two major issues we’re dealing with at the moment are working with the Commonwealth with the city deal, which will set up a strong framework for what happens around the region and the broader airport site,” he said.

“The other big challenge is overcoming past bad decisions - so things that have set us on a negative course. It is hard to correct those.”

Ready to play

 Penrith Mayor Cr John Thain; The Hon Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa, Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Women and Minister for Ageing; The Hon Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Westconnex, Minister for Sport; and local sport representatives.

The City’s newest sports facility at Mulgoa Rise in Glenmore Park has been completed and opened in time for the commencement of the winter football season.

The new multipurpose facility was developed to provide a range of playing fields and associated infrastructure and can cater for a wide range of sports.

Penrith Mayor, John Thain said the new multipurpose fields offer many benefits to players, clubs, the community and the City alike.

“The provision of new sport, recreation and community facilities such as these are essential to developing a healthy, active community,” Cr Thain said.

The facility at Mulgoa Rise has been developed in two stages and apart from a range of playing fields the site also features car parking, playground facilities, connecting pathways, a

storage facility and a central amenities building. The amenities building provides an accessible facility with changing rooms, unisex referee rooms, toilets, canteen, storerooms and an administration/first aid room.

Costing in excess of $5 million the facility has been funded from developer contributions, the NSW Government Office of Sport, Community Sport Facility Program and Penrith City Council.

With the soccer competition starting earlier this month, Glenmore Park Football Club with its 1,200 members and 108 teams will call the facility home. In September, both Penrith Junior Cricket Association and Nepean District Cricket Association will commence the 2017/2018 summer season at the venue with competition matches for over 2,000 cricketing members.

The Opposition comes to town

By Keegan Thomson

VISITING for the first time since last year’s election, Opposition Leader, Bill Shorten delivered a speech to western Sydney locals outlining Labor’s plan to increase affordable housing.

Joined by a trove of Labor comrades, including Lindsay MP Emma Husar, Shadow Treasurer Chris Bowen and Shadow Minister for Housing Doug Cameron, Mr Shorten spoke to locals about the need for more affordable housing.

“There is a housing affordability crisis in this country,” Mr Shorten said.

“With spiralling house prices, the Australian dream of owning your own home seems more out of touch and elusive than ever before,” he said.

Some of the reforms Labor is pushing include changes to negative gearing, restructuring of the capital gains tax concessions and increased charges and fees on foreign property investors.

Mr Shorten described Labor’s policies as “dinkum propositions”.

According to Labor Party policy modelling, in regards to increased housing numbers, Labor’s policies

would create 55,000 extra housing units and houses over the next three years, and it would create 25,000 jobs per year.

During his visit out west, Mr Shorten was asked about Labor’s policies on the Badgery Creek airport. He replied by saying that the Government and the Opposition should work together to provide an adequate outcome for all.

“Labor has said that we do support Badgery’s Creek with certain conditions,” he said.

“I think the Government needs to not rush out thought bubbles, but actually sit down with Labor and work through the issues.

“What people in Western Sydney and throughout Australia want, is they want government and opposition to focus on the people, not on their own fights,” he said.

Free jabs for ‘high risk’ groups

By Keegan Thomson

DOCTORS are urging pregnant women, the elderly and other highrisk groups to take advantage of a free flu vaccination – now available from GPs – ahead of this winter’s flu season.

A new vaccine protecting against the four most likely circulating influenza strains is free for people eligible under the National Immunisation Program.

Women who’re pregnant, people over 65 years of age, have severe asthma, diabetes and heart conditions, as well as select Aboriginal groups, are all eligible for the free jab.

Associate Professor Brad Forssman, the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Director of Public Health, said a flu shot is the best way to keep healthy across the colder months.

“A yearly flu vaccine before winter is the best way to prevent influenza,” Associate Professor Forssman said.

“While anyone can get flu, some people are at greater risk of complications and for those in the high-risk group, flu can be fatal.

“I urge everyone in these highrisk groups to see their GP to take

 Free jabs for pregnant women, over 65s and others in high risk catagory. Photo: Sourced

advantage of a free flu vaccination ahead of the winter flu season.”

Across the state each year there are hundreds of thousands of cases of the flu reported, with NSW Health documenting almost every single case.

This year there is a big push from

NSW Health for more pregnant women to take advantage of the free flu jabs.

Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director Communicable Diseases at NSW Health, said if women don’t receive the flu jab they ran the risk of hospitalisation, intensive care

admission, pre-term delivery and possibly death if they caught the flu.

“The flu vaccination is very safe for expectant mothers and their babies and also provides protection in the infant’s early months,” Dr Sheppeard said.

“Children born to vaccinated mothers have a reduced risk of contracting influenza in the first months of life,” she said.

According to Associate Professor Forssman, each year’s flu jab contains strains of the flus that are most likely to impact the community, with his year’s vaccine containing elements of four different strains.

“The flu vaccine is made up of small parts of four different strains of the flu virus, which stimulate a person’s immune system to create antibodies against those strains and prevent them from being infected,” said Associate Professor Forssman He assured the community that even with the antibodies in the vaccine there is no chance anyone can get sick from the jab.

“The vaccine does not contain the live virus, and cannot cause the flu,” he said.

You can book your flu vaccine at your local GP or at most chemists.

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POLICE FILES

Whalan stabbing

A woman has been charged following a stabbing in Whalan recently.

Officers have been told about 9.30pm (Saturday 15 April), a 39-year-old man was at his home in Gasmatta Crescent when a group of men arrived at his front door in the company of a 23-year-old woman.

Following a confrontation with the men the 39-year-old man was allegedly stabbed in the chest.

The group then left the location.

The wounded man left his home and was walking along Luxford Road when

the 23-year-old woman approached him and allegedly tackled him.

Police from Mount Druitt Local Area Command were called and attended the scene.

The man was treated by emergency services and taken to Westmead Hospital.

The 23-year-old woman, who is known to the man, was arrested and taken to Mount Druitt Police Station.

She was charged with breach of bail.

The woman was refused bail and appeared in Mt Druitt Local Court last Monday.

Inquiries continue.

13 year old charged

A teenage boy has been charged following an alleged pursuit with a stolen Mercedes in Whalan this morning.

About 8am (Monday 17 April 2017), officers from Mount Druitt Local Area Command were patrolling Woodstock Avenue, Whalan, when they saw two Mercedes travelling together.

Officers attempted to stop the cars when they allegedly failed to stop and fled in different directions.

A pursuit was commenced with one of the cars, which was later terminated due to safety concerns.

The car was later located abandoned on Jersey Road, Emerton. A crime scene was established and investigations commenced.

A short time later, a 13-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy were arrested nearby.

They were taken to Mount Druitt Police Station.

The 14-year-old boy was released pending further investigations.

The 13-year-old boy was charged with fail to stop police pursuit (Skye’s Law), receiving, and drive whilst never holding a licence. He was refused bail and is due to appear at a Children’s Court tomorrow (Tuesday 18 April 2017).

The second Mercedes was later located abandoned on Daru Way, Whalan. A crime scene was established and investigations are continuing.

Police will allege both Mercedes were stolen from a home on Portland Crescent, Dover Heights, around 12.30am on Monday 17 April 2017.

Both cars have been seized and will undergo forensic examinations.

Out-of-control car smashes fences, 32 year old male driver blows 0.308 – Werrington Downs A man has been charged after he lost control of his car and drove through several of his neighbours’ front yards, damaging retaining walls and fences in Sydney’s west overnight.

The 32-year-old man has told police he was reversing down his driveway in Granary Circuit, Werrington Downs, about 7.10pm (Friday 21 April 2017), when he lost control.

Police from St Marys Local Area Command arrested the man and took him to St Marys Police Station where he returned an alleged breath analysis reading of 0.308.

The man has been charged with

high-range PCA and will appear in Penrith Local Court on Monday 12 June 2017.

His licence was suspended on the spot.

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Anzac: Local crowds turn out to pay respects

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Our community has once again shown that the sacrifices made by our Defence Forces past and present are appreciated, by turning up in droves to the pre-Anzac Day march last Sunday and at Dawn Services held on Tuesday.

The march on Sunday at St Marys was followed by a service held at Victoria Park, where special guest Dr Daryl Chamberlain was among the attendees.

Local High Schools showcased a special display in line with the theme for this year’s service.

Dawn Services on Anzac Day held at “The Train” in St Marys and at Memory Park in Penrith attracted large crowds, with many sharing breakfast with veterans afterward at St Marys and Penrith RSL Clubs.

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Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Rabbits make wonderful pets

Rabbits make wonderful pets and a well cared for bunny can live for 7-9 years. They come in a variety of different breeds and sizes; from short coated dwarfs to fluffy giant Flemish rabbits. With so many breeds it is difficult to recommend any one breed. Generally the larger breeds are more docile and better suited for children. Coat length should also be considered as longer haired varieties need more regular grooming and can easily become matted if not groomed daily.

They are great as indoor pets and can be trained to use a litter tray. If kept indoors, it is a good idea to rabbit proof the house. Bunnies love to chew through electrical cords so ensure that these are well hidden. Rabbits can be housed in outdoor hutches as well but they need a lot of room to move around and daily socialisation time with the family. An ideal hutch should have enough room for the rabbit to run around and should also provide a sleeping area with adequate shelter. Hutches should also be covered in a mosquito proof netting to help prevent diseases. The floor of the hutch should have soft

absorbent bedding to avoid sores on the feet.

Exercise is important for health and well being.

Time out of the hatch in a safe enclosed backyard where they can graze is ideal. Rabbits are social creatures and enjoy living in the company of other bunnies. Rabbits can also form great bonds with their owners and other types of pets.

Rabbits are herbivores, meaning that they eat plants. It is recommended that their diets consist of high quality hay, fresh grass and chopped leafy vegetables. Most commercially available

rabbit mixes lack sufficient fibre for a rabbits nutritional needs. These mixes contain food that are not found in a rabbits natural diet and can cause life threatening dental and gastrointestinal disease.

Rabbits also need regular vaccinations against calicivirus – this is a fatal virus that can cause bleeding and sudden death. Another common illness is myxomatosis, unfortunately there is no available vaccination against this disease in Australia but prevention involves controlling fleas and mosquitoes.

Desexing is also recommended to avoid unwanted bunnies and to prevent diseases. Approximately 80% of female bunnies will develop uterine cancers if they are not desexed.

Rabbits make wonderful pets and good housing and diet will ensure they have a long and happy life.

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nepeanhistory

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Buried in a King’s Vault

M

ost of us know that the church and cemetery of St Mary Magdalene Anglican church in St Marys has a very old historical significance, especially as it was built by a NSW Governor’s family and as such has many of their ancestors sleeping in the graveyard. One such ancestor was James Lethbridge Templer buried in the King Family vault. James was born in Bridport in Dorset in England in November 1811 and the eldest of thirteen children. His parents were James Templer and Catherine Lethbridge. Catherine’s parents were Christopher Lethbridge & Mary “Polly” Copland. He was educated at a grammar school at Charmouth then at Charterhouse. His poems, some dating from his youth, were privately published in London in 1872 by his brother John Charles Templer. At the age of fifteen he entered the maritime service of the East India Company and was rapidly promoted.

In 1835 he sailed to China as Commander of his uncle’s ship the Minerva. He resigned his command and began trading in the East but was unsuccessful and left China in 1839 to visit family in Sydney. In his handwritten journal started in China an account of a voyage to Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) and New South Wales in the ship the “Young Queen”. He was a prolific artist and filled many sketchbooks in his short lifetime. The Mitchell Library holds a copy of an Australian sketchbook depicting the landscape and buildings of the Penrith area where his uncle Robert Copland Lethbridge had settled. James was given painting lessons by his mother. He was an admirer of Conrad Martens whom he met in Sydney in 1839 and made several copies of Martens’ work. James was a competent painter of both landscape and animals and was said to possess “an absolute passion for the horse and hound” and his album also contains drawings of a kangaroo hunt where he took part. He had a keen appreciation of horseflesh and his journal documents his efforts to paint various horses from the stables of the Australian Agricultural Company for his Uncle, especially a finished watercolour of “Beagle” an Australian Bred Horse and the Property of Captain Phillip Parker King, R.N & dated December 1839 held by the Mitchell Library together with other watercolour portraits of horses. James made a sketch of St Stephens Church in June 1839 a month before the Church at Penrith was officially consecrated. This rare drawing is one of a series of sketches he made that year while staying in the district. During the latter part of 1839 when he stayed with Phillip Parker King’s family at Tahlee near Port Stephens he came into close contact with the local Aborigines. At this early period when settlement was making further advances into areas traditionally occupied by the Aborigines and when great tension existed in the more remote areas of the colony, James’ journal shows a real interest in Aboriginal custom and ceremonies. On a number of occasions he records the employment of Aborigines as crewmen on local boats and ferries and also gives a detailed account of a ceremony (‘corroboree’) presented apparently as an exhibition for the entertainment of visitors. This account includes details of body painting in preparation for the event but finishes with the observation that the performance probably lacked the liveliness and authenticity it might have when conducted out of sight of European spectators. Towards the end of his stay at Port Stephens he reports

the details of a Christmas feast given to the Aborigines at Carrington Flat. This comprised of a whole Bullock (roasted in 4 quarters) along with a couple of large plum puddings and lots of tea and damper. In October 1840 while living in Sydney James decided to pursue a career as a cattle and horse breeder at Erskine Park where he had a problem with a runaway worker convict named Thomas Coker aged 28 who had come on the “Captain Cook” from Uxbridge whose occupation was a butcher and soldier and worked for James who had given him a pass to Parramatta on his behalf where he absconded and was on the run for nine days before being apprehended. In 1844 the first District Agricultural Show was held at St Marys on a portion of the land owned by Andrew Thompson and James wrote the following poem called SPEED THE PLOUGH:In the days of my youth when the trumpet of war,

by Gallia’s usurper was sounded afar The patriot toast at each Englishman’s board, after “ King, Church, and State” was “Success to the Sword” But the fierce foemen vanquished his victories’ vain, merry peace smiles around us triumphant again And the first bumper toast that we will drink now, will be “Victoria the Queen and Success to the Plough” Rejoicing in peace see the well-tilled field, its plentiful store to the husbandman yield.

His labours with increase abundant repay, while manure its fertility keeps from decay.

Where heretofore one vast dense forest appeared, trees are fallen logs burned and the land is now cleared Age leaving a rich crop of wheat even now, then “Here’s Prince Albert’s Health and Success to the Plough” Though o’er us the fell storm of ruin has past, our English energy will conquer at last We’ll not tamely be driven by Government sway, but its imposts despotic expose to full day Our Queen will the husbandman’s labours protect, his exertions rewarded and his freedom respect Whilst the Church his full claim to her care will allow, then “Here’s England’s Church and Success to the Plough” For the husbandman’s wealth is the wealth of the State, without agriculture would England be great?

Dependent on others to bring her her food, can such short-sighted maxims one moment hold good?

Even here, if on Chili for wheat we rely, and her crops fail where can we get a supply?

All the wheat all the grain we consume let us grow, then “Here’s to St Marys and Success to the Plough” Sadly, in August 1845 James aged 33was killed instantly when returning with some friends from a picnic in Richmond when he was thrown by his horse against a tree.

15 Nepean News 19 February 2015 Issue 143

15

Sources: Trove, Nepean Times, Ancestry, State Library of NSW, Sketch of James courtesy of National Library of Australia.

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

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16

localnews

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

The G Spot

Nothing like a Sunday reading the paper and out falls the travel escape insert.

Don’t deny it; the front page picture is like staring at a screensaver on your computer for hours wishing you were there.

You faintly hear the Hawaiian musical tones in your ears, the smell of coconut oil and the taste of seafood with an expensive bottle of wine.

You close your eyes and block out the kids fighting, cat meowing, dogs barking and hubby saying “where’s me coffee darl?”

So in all my expert wisdom, I decided to look for handy tips for the traveler and perhaps summarise and then give them to you, my avid G Spotters.

Soooo, I was reading a travelling tip guide, just to get the juices flowing for this column, because I just can’t be simply brilliant constantly. I came

across these 50 handy tips for the traveler.

Hold on its coming...

So this Brainiac’s tip number 2 was – don’t miss your flight because that will suck! And the crickets start…. ummmm? I am no rocket scientist but this is a no-brainer, right?

Tip 15 – Take a memory card because you will need it! Like der that’s what it is a memory card is, ya drop kick, it never forgets.

Tip 17 – Contraceptives are not the stupidest idea in the world! This guy quit his job for this, well hopefully he doesn’t breed, that’s one good thing I guess.

Tip 25- Take something that will entertain you for hours. Now that’s a great tip, I have a mother of an ingrown toe nail that I can dig at on the plane for at least 16 hours and flick that crap everywhere. With a plastic knife of course - don’t want to

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

be arrested as a suspected terrorist.

Tip 31- Having a change of underwear- Yep another great tip, because when you get hit by that moped in Thailand by some drunk driver you want to know that the pants you just crapped in are changeable.

Tip 43- Try and hang out with people just like you whilst on holidays. The last time I looked you want to get away from people or you would be drinking beers on a deck chair on the loading dock of your workplace.

Tip 39- If it can’t be worn for three days then don’t bring it! This is the type of dude that you get stuck with in economy class and he is in the middle seat and wearing the same shirt for three days. You have to vomit in the sick bag just to change the smell in the room. Anyway, I have to secretly concur with this tip, my clothes are ready for scientific testing by the time

I’ve finished my holiday.

Tip 1- Give a photocopy of your passport & itinerary to family and friends. Now this is a great tip, except when they get arrested in a corrupt country and hand over your ID saying they are you. But, yeah good tip, I will give this to him.

So there you have it, travelling tips for that next 5 star holiday, bring undies just in case you crap your pants, forget the kids, if it gets too hard just wear your clothes for three days oh and don’t miss your flight or you can’t do any of the above.

Oh and my handy security travelling tips- Don’t take hordes of cash in a bum bag and carry your mobile phone in your hand whilst walking the streets. Place all cash in secure safes at your hotel, lock your doors and put all valuables away. Don’t flash it baby or it will be gone!

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e n t e r t a i n m e n t

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Big names line up for fundraiser at The Pioneer Tavern

Photos: Kennedi Geyer

By Kerrie Davies

CELEBRATING a significant milestone, The Great Walk Foundation is in its tenth year of operation this year.

The foundation raises a tremendous amount of funds each year and 100 per cent of the money goes to local charities and causes affecting our community.

Founded by local legends Jonathon Green and Mark Mulock, the fundraising activities incorporate a lengthy walk up the Blue Mountains by a bunch of charity-driven locals including our own Mark MG Geyer.

There’s also an entertainment arm to the fundraising, and the Pioneer Tavern’s CEO, Iris Russell is always keen to get behind it and do everything she can to help.

Those wishing to help Iris and the Pioneer raise funds will be treated to an awesome Friday afternoon of entertainment on June 16, provided

by MG, Wendell Sailor comedian Mick Meredith with the Shepherd brothers MCs for the day And to top it off there’ll be a seafood buffet lunch, with a beer. wine or soft drink on arrival. Auction items will be available for some fun bidding with all money raised going to a great cause.

Iris personally buys many of the items which are then put up for Auction, but she’d love to have more.

“Anyone wishing to donate an item for auction would be really welcomed, please contact me here at the Pioneer Tavern if you are able to help,” she said.

Over the last two years $30,00 has been raised at the event at the Pioneer, and Iris is hoping to clock up another $10,000 -15,000 this year.

“I first got behind the foundation because I know one of the founders, Jonathon Green. I was amazed by the great work they do for our local community,” Iris said.

“Last year following the floods, the

Riding For The Disabled Association in Orchard Hills suffered a terrible loss which included the death of some of their horses, and I was proud that our efforts here resulted in a $13,000 donation direct to them.”

The Pioneer Tavern proudly sponsors and supports many organisations in the local community, including sporting clubs and Panthers on the Prowl.

The event will be very intimate with only 100 tickets available, so be quick! Held on June 16 at 12.30pm, tickets can be purchased through the Pioneer, in person, by phone or online, but must be pre-purchased, they will not be available on the day.

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e n t e r t a i n m e n t

20 Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Adding fuel to the lineup And the surprise support act is....

Diesel

Some lucky locals will get to meet the great Jon Stevens!

By Kerrie Davies

Jon Stevens will be supporting Jimmy Barnes at the upcoming concert at Fernhill Estate and this week he was kind enough to do a Q & A with me. He’s a great bloke and now you also have a chance to meet the man at a “meet and greet” at the Fernhill gig - details under the Q & A. Kerrie: You’ve had such a diverse musical career, has there been a favourite period, as in the Noiseworks days, INXS days or as a soloist? Or has each venture been unique and exciting in its own way?

Jon: My favourite period is now, today.

Yesterday is a memory. But you are right, each period has been a unique adventure and there has been a lot of exciting times.

May they continue to continue!

Kerrie: What would you say has been your career highlight moment?

Jon: Not any one particular moment as I tend to look forward and am always trying to be better at my craft - I still feel extremely passionate about writing and performing and working with like-minded people….it’s still lotsa fun.

Kerrie: As a boy, what did you want to be when you grew up? Was it always a dream of being on stage? And have you exceeded your own expectations?

Jon: As a boy I only ever wanted to play football – I didn’t dream of being onstage but fell into it at a young age.

WIN!

Music was a very normal, everyday happy fun place growing up in a musical household the youngest of 11 children.

One of the things I have learnt in life is don’t expect anything, that way you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy your life while you’re here and try and make a difference in your own small way.

Fernhill Estate is giving away four chances to win a double “meet and greet” with Jon Stevens!!

To enter, purchase two or more GA entries to the Jimmy Barnes concert on May 7 by 5pm May 1st. Type JON into the promo code and you’ll go in the draw to win!

Charitable cause on show at Barnesy gig

By Keegan Thomson

WHEN Barnesy comes to town early next month, for the special one-off event, Fernhill Estate Presents Jimmy Barnes, his concert will be raising money for a very special cause.

A percentage of the money raised at the Jimmy Barnes concert will be donated to music therapy organisation Nordoff Robbins.

Belinda Leonard, CEO of Nordoff Robbins Australia, said the funds raised will go a long way.

“Music therapy is very expensive to put on,” Ms Leonard said. “There are a lot of instruments involved and we have very specialised facilities here.”

“Our waiting areas have to accommodate for a whole range of needs, we need sound-proofing on our music rooms and we need to keep everything up to standards.

“We spend upwards of $40,000 each year just on musical instruments alone,” she said.

Nordoff Robbins uses music as a therapy device, with the aim of helping develop communication skills in people who have trouble communicating.

Ms Leonard says music is a great

way to help people articulate their feelings.

“We deal with a lot of young people with autism, so early intervention for children with autism, and then we have a cluster of other adults with brain disorders,” Ms Leonard said.

“Music can help with articulation.

So it can help children learn how to speak simplistically. We can also work on socialisation.

“Music can help almost anyone.

That is the most amazing thing about it all,” she said.

Local musician, and ambassador for Nordoff Robbins, Yianna Nicholas will be performing at Fernhill Estate Presents Jimmy Barnes. She says music therapy helps people on many levels.

“I absolutely believe that music has the capability to heal and bring a person out of their comfort zone,” Ms Nicholas said.

“After witnessing a music therapy session first hand, I discovered that it does indeed help. The progress that was made from beginning to end was incredible.

“Through song, they become more outgoing. The therapist plays a number of songs and throughout the session, you notice a huge difference in the patient.

“They may feel a little shy at first but slowly they pick themselves up and by the end of the session they’re singing and playing along with the music. It’s something truly amazing and inspiring to witness,” she said.

Ms Nicholas became involved in Nordoff Robbins after she attended one of their charity events, Art of Music.

“I met some of the organisers at the event and managed to keep in contact.

Eventually, I was performing at some of their High Tea events and have now become an Ambassador which is such a great honour,” she said.

Ms Nicholas will be performing as an opening act for Jimmy Barnes during the Jimmy Barnes concert held at Fenrhill Estate in Mulgoa on May 7.

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penrith panthers

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Form is not good enough for rep footy: Tamou

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

A frustrated James Tamou conceded in the wake of Penrith’s 1812 loss to Parramatta, that he has little chance of retaining his NSW Origin spot, unless the major off-season recruit not only improves his game, but in doing so helps lift his team out of a losing streak that threatens to derail their premiership hopes.

Having been overlooked for Australia’s successful Four Nations campaign late last year, the form of the 28-year old prop has been inconsistent to say the least since joining the club this season and has been target of much fan frustration.

Statistics from the Fox Sports Lab, support those concerns with the ex-Cowboy significantly down on his performances at this time in 2016, particularly when in possession where runs (88 v 118), metres gained (103 metres per game v 144), penalties (8 v 1) and errors (6 v 4) are all down on 2016 equivalents despite his average game time increasing from 46 to 52 minutes per game.

In the latest loss to Parramatta, early lack of possession meant Tamou struggled to get involved in the game, making just 45 metres from six runs, largely as a result of being required to make 27 tackles in just 34 minutes played, before succumbing to a knee injury that could rule him out of this Thursday’s must-win game versus Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium.

Tamou didn’t shy away when asked to assess his game, admitting that his current form is not up to scratch and concludes that unless he increases his involvement and helps his team out of their form slump, the incumbent NSW Blues prop is set to be overlooked for this year’s Origin series.

“My form needs to improve. I need to be better so the players around me can be better,” Tamou told Nepean News.

“I need to find a way to get myself more into the game.

“Getting those early carries, making tackles and pushing myself. “(Currently) I’m not there for rep footy form wise

 James Tamou vows to increase his involvement in games. Photo: 77 Media.

and I put that on myself.

“Rep footy is not even on the mind at this time.

“I want to look after this team first. We’re in a hole at the moment.”

While the pre-season premiership favourites currently sit in 14th position with just two wins from eight, Tamou says he has no regrets leaving North Queensland, adding that the playing roster are one happy unit off the field despite being obviously displeased with the results to date on it.

“With everything that’s happened in the opening rounds, I still have had no regrets (coming to Penrith),” Tamou declared.

“It’s a fun environment and I love it. I’m as happy as Larry.

“I love the players, the coaching staff, I really enjoy it.

“In fact everyone’s really energetic coming into training which is good.

“But coming off the losses it is pretty tough at the moment on the field.

“You don’t want to let your team mates down especially after a good week at training.

“But obviously we are in a rut (at the moment and) we just need to dig ourselves out.”

With a third of the season gone, Penrith who were

virtually everyone’s tip as a top four team, now face the daunting task of having to win at least ten of their last sixteen games just to make the top eight.

But Tamou echoed Panthers coach Anthony Griffin’s view that there were aspects to their play in the second half that can be built on, provided the team simplified their game and looked to grind out results instead of being impatient and trying to score off every set.

“We need to sort a few things out but there were a lot of positives to take out of that game,” Tamou said.

“That first five-ten minutes we were defending on our line, doing drop outs which no one game plans for and that obviously takes a lot of sting out of you.

“Then if we go one way and nothing works out, then we’re playing panic stations.

“Once we actually got in the grind (during the second half), we were completing sets and were able to play how we wanted.

“We just need to reach that level earlier in the game that what we did today.

“If we simplify our game and concentrate on the little things, like completing our sets that will enable us to dig our way out.”

Hockey NSW develops newly modified game

By Conner Lowe

Last weekend all age groups up to U/11’s in the Nepean district were introduced to a new concept in hockey.

Junior players from local clubs and from the Narellan area attended the event.

The new concept introduced is known as ‘Kookaburra 8’s’. Hockey New South Wales innovation in conjunction with Kookaburra allows the younger players to play the sport in the usual style but involves a smaller field and with only eight players on the field instead of the full field number of 11 players.

Chris Eagleton, Emu Plains Club executive spoke about the potential the younger players have now to develop and enjoy the newly modified game.

“The newly modified kookaburra

8’s sees the juniors touching the ball more in the game and with field positions uncluttered there will be more opportunity for all players to get on the ball,” he said.

Another modification to the Kookaburra 8’s is a newly developed

ball. The ball is known as the Joey ball and it is much softer and safer than the harder balls used for hockey. The Joey ball is a world first with very positive feedback after being used at gala days and ‘Come and Try’ events.

Nepean hockey junior coaches put

the younger players through a series of skill drills on day one of the Come and try event. During the second day of the event the coaches allowed the kids to play games throughout the day. Hockey NSW Regional Coaching Coordinator Nicole King carried out a ‘Coaching the Coaches’ for NHA due to the changes to the junior hockey game.

Nicole King spoke about what hockey NSW wants to achieve through the newly modified game and “The main objective is for hockey NSW to have 2020 junior players by the year 2020. Through modifying the junior game, we hope that the juniors will have more time to develop their skills on the ball and understand the structure of the game,” she said.

The Under 11 girls and boys play at the Western Sydney University Hybrid field each Thursday night. Details and Club contacts can be found on www. nepeanhockey.com.au.

Panther Rookie in high demand from other NRL clubs

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

In a season where a run of belowpar performances threaten Penrith’s chances of making back-to-back finals appearances for the first time since 2003-4, the performances of recent NRL debutant Corey Harawira-Naera is quickly becoming their shining light.

As one of the latest members of the club that recently fielded a record number of players with hyphenated names in a NRL game, the Kiwi backrower is not only quickly becoming a fan favourite with his quirky post-try dance moves, but is making a very strong case for coach Anthony Griffin to keep him in first grade.

But despite not making his NRL debut until Round Four against Newcastle, Harawira-Naera has upstaged most of his more illustrious team-mates to become arguably Penrith’s stand-out forward in a pack that is struggling to match its 2016 performances.

However, with fellow Northland junior representative, James Fisher-Harris and other back-rowers already under contract for 2018 and beyond, the off-contract 21-year old may have to move elsewhere in order to secure a permanent first grade spot, with Cronulla and Melbourne reportedly leading the race, despite confirming his preference to remain at Penrith.

Harawira-Naera, who hails from the small northern NZ town of Waimamaku (population approximately 200-300), admits that his time in the top grade could end once his good mate James Fisher-Harris returns from injury, but is nonetheless grateful to be given the opportunity to play in the NRL so early on in the season.

“I knew I was in there (first grade) because of the injuries but while it is still hard (knowing that I might miss out), I can’t really argue,” Harawira-Naera admitted to Nepean News.

“I didn’t think I would be playing first grade this early on in the season and I’ve surprised myself so far by staying there.

“Whatever the coaches thinks what’s right for the team is what happens and I’ve just got to get on with

Will Corey still be a Panther in 2018? Photo: 77 Media.

it and try and play as good as I can wherever I’m playing .”

Born in Auckland and the second of five children, Corey Harawira-Naera could have easily played for the NRL club he supported as a child; the New Zealand Warriors which would have pleased his mother, herself an avid Warriors fan.

But Northland junior representative coach, Jim Larkin had other ideas and through his close relationship with the Panthers, got in touch with the club who promptly came to watch both he and FisherHarris play before the pair were quickly signed up.

“Similar to Fish (James Fisher-Harris), I played a bit of rep footy for the Northland team and got a bit lucky I guess,” Harawira-Naera began to explain.

“Jim Larkin, our league coach, knew a few people over here and hooked us up pretty much.

“They (the Panthers) came over and watched us play a few times and we got signed pretty quickly.

“It happened really fast as a month or two later (after signing) I was over here.”

The move from such a small country NZ town to the bright lights of Penrith certainly presented its challenges for Harawira-Naera despite having already made the move to Auckland.

Coach’s Corner With the Panthers only recording victories in two of their opening eight matches to start the 2017 season there has been a change in the lofty expectations and optimism at the foot of the mountains, which has been replaced with the predictable panic and attribution of blame.

I will put my hand up and admit I expected the Panthers to sit in a better position with a third of the regular season in the books. But the cold hard facts are that the Panthers currently sit in the bottom four with only two victories over fellow cellar dwellers in the Knights who will do well to avoid another wooden spoon, and the Tigers who are having a season from hell with a multitude of off-field issues.

Of major concern is the manner in which the Panthers have gone down in three of their six losses with margins of 32, 26 and 22 points. This indicates some defensive issues which will need to be ironed out, along with a rekindling in the defensive attitude

But Harawira-Naera, who initially lived at Panther House, credits another Northland product, Elijah Taylor for making that tough transition easier, adding he wished the former Panther utility forward was still at the club.

“As soon as he knew we were over here, he’d always come out to see us every 1-2 months and have a feed with us and make sure everything was going smoothly,” Harawira-Naera said.

“I was a bit gutted when he left but he got a good opportunity for himself and is going really well.

“We still keep in touch now and then.”

And what about those dance moves that the fans are hoping to see more of, both live at the ground on the big screen and online on social media?

“It (the post-try video) is something different as it expresses the kind of person I am, a bit of a joker,” Corey declared.

“A few boys had already done theirs already and I thought they were a bit boring, so I thought I would spice it up a bit, make it a bit interesting and have a bit of a laugh.

“My mum couldn’t stop laughing especially after my first try and I don’t think I’ll ever hear the end of it that’s for sure.”

Brock Shepperd Sydney Roosters NYC Development Squad - Head Coach Kaizen Sports Performance Rugby League Academy - Head Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast | b.shepperd@hotmail.com

and spirit the side demonstrated at the back end of last season which was an under-rated factor in their success.

Structurally there have been some noticeable changes in the Panthers defence with a tendency to come up off the line and hold with a heavy reliance on the middle / inside defenders working across through a defensive slide to help solve defensive problems on the edges. This slide method of defence is a big change from the team’s previous system and it will take time for the team to adjust and adapt. No amount of practice at training will replace applying and testing this system within games and at the moment it is the biggest area of concern. Opposition coaches are taking advantage of these deficiencies after watching game film and the Panthers will be working hard to immediately rectify them.

Offensively, the Panthers are tending to play

very lateral and are trying to finesse the ball from sideline to sideline. This links in with the defensive deficiencies which is resulting in the Panthers constantly facing score board pressure. When in offence the Panthers are not pushing up around the ball in numbers through the middle of the field which created so many opportunities for well constructed and expansive try scoring opportunities for the young halves on the edges for the team last season.

The upside is that the Panthers still have 16 games remaining in 2017. They will need to win 10 of the remaining 16 games to have a chance of finishing in the Top 8 after 26 rounds. This is very achievable but the pressure is building to deliver some much needed victories to start the long climb back up the ladder and it doesn’t get any easier in Round 9 as the Panthers face the in-form Broncos at Suncorp Stadium.

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

25 Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

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26

sport

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

Wheelchair Rugby League season soon to begin

By Conner Lowe

The Western Sydney Wheelchair Rugby League competition kicks off at the start of May. The competition will be played on Tuesday nights with the first-round commencing on the 2nd of May. The game consists of five players on the field at the time and is played across two basketball courts. You have tags either side of your wheelchair and follows the same rules as Rugby

League.

The competition runs for nine weeks, with eight being all competitive to every team and the last week will be finals for the highest finishing teams.

Nathan Pentecost, the Emu Plains captain spoke about Wheelchair Rugby League and why he loves the sport.

“I love it because it’s a fast pace sport, a bit rough and a very enjoyable sport. People who aren’t in wheelchairs will also find it as a very

fun and challenging sport.

“It also allows people who are in wheelchairs to compete and enjoy the sport that they love to watch and play,” he said.

The four rugby league clubs that are involved with the Wheelchair Rugby League competition are Emu Plains, Minchinbury, St Clair and St Marys.

“I would like to thank all the Rugby League teams that are involved with the competition and for showing support for the sport,” Nathan said.

The competition is currently looking for more players and if you register with five players you will be given two experienced players to help learn and develop your skills in the sport.

Registration is $90 and is played at Second Ave, Kingswood. You must be of 14 years of age to play Wheelchair Rugby League.

For more information and inquires contact Nathan Pentecost on 0419463930 or email nathan_ pentecost@yahoo.com.au.

Sports Scenes

(With Thanks to 77 Media)

It’s been a tough fortnight for the Panthers both home and away - and the cameras of 77 Media were there to watch it all unfold.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak gets a “warm” welcome from the Sharks defence.

Bombs away from Nathan Cleary.

A magnificent sunset the highlight of otherwise gloomy 28-2 loss for Penrith.

One of the highlights on the NRL season calendar - Anzac Round.

The coaching staff can’t look the same way as another loss looms.

Sadly another loss for a confidencezapped Panthers outfit.

Repeat Sets with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

FINALS HOPES IN DANGER OF SLIPPING AWAY AS FORM SLUMP STRETCHES TO FOUR GAMES He might not have to solve world peace as recently quoted, but Panthers coach Anthony Griffin has a lot of work ahead of him if he is to resolve Penrith’s current four-game losing streak after suffering defeats to Cronulla (28-2) and Parramatta (18-12).

As was the case against Cronulla, the Panthers failed to follow Griffin’s game plan of being patient in attack and showing resilience in defence when trailing 18-0.

It finally clicked for the Panthers, with tries to Peta Hiku and Corey Harawira-Naera (who was Penrith’s best player after coming back in the team for James Fisher-Harris) but the clock beat them in the end to lose by six.

Penrith will now need to create club history and better last year’s effort of recovering from a 3 and 5 start to make the finals, starting with Thursday’s mustwin away clash against Brisbane.

While Griffin could see some positives to build on, he pointed out that while still looking for that patience in attack and greater resilience in defence, there needs to be patience shown towards what is still one of the NRL’s more inexperienced teams.

“We’ve got some work to do but I thought that second half gives us something to work off going into next week,” Griffin declared.

“I thought at half-time we had no ball through our own doing as well.

“When you playing tough teams every week, you can’t afford to be giving up six or ten soft points.

“If it was 6 or 8-0 at halftime I think we would have gone on to win that game today.

“We’re still a fairly young developing side and we’re learning some pretty tough lessons at the moment.

“We’ll be better in the future, but when that is I can’t guarantee that. “(But) I know where we are going as a club. I know where this team is going.

“We’ve got the right people in the right places and when it’s right it will be right.”

Six days earlier Penrith’s poor form against top four sides continued (having scored just four tries

 Bryce Cartwright was certainly “rusty” upon his return from injury. Photo: 77 Media.

in four games played) after losing 28-2 to Cronulla.

It was also Penrith’s biggest home defeat since Round 22, 2013 (36-4 v North Queensland) and the first time the side had lost three successive games under Griffin.

But Griffin said he would be happy with the lack of points in attack provided his side could show greater resilience in defence and not concede those easy points.

“Games like that today (like Melbourne) their 10-8 games or two tries each type of games,” Griffin declared.

“We just haven’t got the patience at the moment with the ball and defensively we’re leaking easy tries.

The Panthers dominated virtually all the key game stats in the first half – completions, runs, metres, line-breaks, errors and penalties but only had Nathan Cleary penalty goal to show for it as they trailed 12-2 at half-time.

Griffin also admitted Cronulla in the second half gave Penrith a lesson on how to be patient yet ruthless in attack.

“Today we were up against quality opposition as well, they’re the premiers for a reason,” Griffin conceded.

“In the second half they were very ruthless, very patient, very clinical and they did a job on us today.

“It wasn’t our best day.”

Penrith’s Intrust Super Premiership side slump mirrors that of their first grade counterparts, having also lost four games in a row and are clinging to a spot in the top eight after suffering back-to-back last minute home losses to Newtown (18-16) and Wentworthville (13-12).

With ten minutes remaining Penrith led Newtown 16-6 but two converted tries from near the side-line saw the Jets take the lead for the first time and snatch the win.

While last Saturday, Penrith having trailed 12-0 for much of the game before setting up a grandstand finish having levelled the scores with sseven minutes left remaining, only to see the opposition kick the winning field goal inside the final 80 seconds of the game.

David Tangata-Toa’s Holden Cup side have stretched their unbeaten run to seven games and remain on top of the table.

The Panthers drew their home match against Cronulla for the second season in succession 30all after trailing 30-18 during the second half in a see-sawing affair.

Then last Saturday, they twice withstood an Eels fightback to run out 36-32 winners, having led 18-0 and 30-12 during the first half.

At the time of going to print a day earlier than normal due to the ANZAC day public holiday, there is no team list for the Brisbane clash but be prepared for changes with James Fisher-Harris (shoulder) an unlikely chance of returning, while prop James Tamou (knee) could also be in doubt for the clash.

It remains to be seen whether Te Maire Martin (neck) will be rushed back into the side this week.

But what is certain that another loss here and it becomes an even greater perhaps too great a task for the 14th-placed Panthers to win 10 of their remaining 15 games just to be chance of making the eight.

See you at the game. #PantherPride

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Celebrity

ROUND 9

ROUND 10

BRI SOU NQC GCT BUL WES NZW STG BUL STG WES PAN MEL MAN NEW SYD PAN MAN PAR NEW CAN CRO SYD MEL NQC CRO SOU NZW GCT BRI CAN PAR April 27 7.50pm

April 28 6.00pm

April 28 7.50pm

April 29 3.00pm

April 29 5.30pm

April 29 7.30pm

April 30 2.00pm

April 30 4.00pm

May 11 7.50pm

May 12 6.00pm

May 12 7.50pm

May 13 3.00pm

May 13 5.30pm

May 13 7.50pm

May 14 2.00pm

May 14 4.00pm

SCORE

Sharon Mudiman - First National Glenmore Park - 0413 757 998

72 Greg Taylor - Stanton & Taylor - 0418 235 333

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

76 Mark Fitzpatrick - Penrith Valley Pest Control - 0430 220 263

82 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

74 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

78 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

70 Tricia Hitchen - Deputy Mayor - 0417 365 313

76 John Thain - Penrith City Mayor - 0411 427 812

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

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

74

TIPSTERS ROUND 9

ROUND 10

BRI SOU NQC GCT BUL WES NZW STG BUL STG WES PAN MEL MAN NEW SYD PAN MAN PAR NEW CAN CRO SYD MEL NQC CRO SOU NZW GCT BRI CAN PAR April 27 7.50pm

April 28 6.00pm

April 28 7.50pm

April 29 3.00pm

April 29 5.30pm

April 29 7.30pm

April 30 2.00pm

April 30 4.00pm

May 11 7.50pm

May 12 6.00pm

May 12 7.50pm

May 13 3.00pm

May 13 5.30pm

May 13 7.50pm

May 14 2.00pm

May 14 4.00pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

74 Drew Clegg - BOQ - 0427 998 111

72 David Seager - Seager Financial Services - 0411 107 776

70 Prue Car - Memberfor Londonderry - 9833 1122

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

74 Peter Zaccazan - Zac Homes - 1300 350 793

74 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

72 Paul Wallace - Property Central - 0412 272 407

78 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

74 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

70 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055 Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

64

•Anzac Day Games - Roosters v Dragons and Storm v Warriors - scores from those games will be calculated and included in next edition scores

30

penrith panthers

Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

MG on the mark

with MARK GEYER

Hang in there Panther fans, your team needs you

 Hang in there Panther fans, your team needs you

This exact same time last year after eight rounds in the NRL premiership race, Penrith were 3 wins 5 losses. At present they are 2 wins 6 losses.

Far from panic stations, but still a degree of anxiety in which the way - or by how much - they have been beaten by this current campaign.

Last year the opening 8 rounds saw the mountain men succumb by the barest of margins in their opening 5 defeats, 8, 2, 2, 5 and 2 points respectively to be exact.

This season has seen a blowout in defeated margins which has all Panther fans reaching for the panadol. 32 points to the Dragons, 2 points to the Roosters with ‘that forward pass” being the difference that night, a 22 point loss to the Storm, another one that got away with the Rabbitohs beating Anthony Griffin’s men by a point at Pepper Stadium, then the Sharks by 26 and Parra by 6 has the Panthers sitting where they do now on the competition table.

Seems everyone has an opinion as to why.

I’ll give you mine. Pre-season expectations have derailed the opening stanza of 2017, whether anyone says so out loud or not.

That, along with Origin prop James Tamou and Dragons hooker Mitch Rein joining the gang, coupled with the abundant supply of current players and juniors had every man and their dog predicting a Panthers victory in this season’s grand final. Seven months out!

Hard not to get caught up in that if you’re a current player, the fans and media

 With Gus Worland in Gallipoli, what an amazing place

did, so why can’t the players?

I have no doubt Penrith will come good this year, it’s a matter of when not if.

But everyone associated with this great game has to realise that to experience the warm glow of the sun there has to be some cold dark days to appreciate what you’re missing out on.

Stay true Panther fans, your team are definitely the real deal, once they truly believe this and it’s not just a written word, look out!

And another thing...

As a player the most emotional time to play was on Anzac Day. Standing side by side with your teammates listening to the Last Post thinking of how many sacrificed their own lives for the freedom we are now afforded, sends goosebumps up my spine just writing that sentence. My grandfather Keith Culpan served in WWII and this was always in the back of my mind when listening to the amazing rendition on field.

To those men and women that fought and are still fighting for our country I say thank you. Your contribution to making our country what it is will never ever go unnoticed.

Lest We Forget.

MG (random Westie) OAM

GOLDEN POINTS with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

MARTIN SPECULATION SIMMERS AS CARTWRIGHT’s RETURN IS ONE TO FORGET In the final hours before kick-off in last Saturday’s clash with Parramatta, there was plenty of speculation building that Panthers fiveeighth, Te Maire Martin who was initially thought to have had a neck injury had in fact been dropped.

But at the post-game press conference, Panthers coach Anthony Griffin seemed to have dispelled those suggestions when he confirmed Martin’s neck injury failed to respond to a cortisone injection and was ruled out on Wednesday.

However there were still mutterings after the press conference from some within the media who were adamant that Martin had been dropped.

But if those sections of the media are correct, then why not play Martin in the Intrust Super Premiership and allow him to find some form?

Martin’s replacement, Bryce Cartwright, after a five-game absence, made a return to footy that he would rather forget; missing the kick-off, fumbling the ball in attempting to clean-up a grubber kick onehanded in the in-goal which led to a try, dropping another ball and threw a forward pass when Penrith looked to have the numbers to score on Parramatta’s right edge.

Speaking of Cartwright, although he was unavailable for any post-game comments, expect the club to make him available to the media in the not too distant future.

As reported four weeks ago, Viliame Kikau’s management’s talks with Penrith has resulted in a new two-year deal that will see the towering forward remaining with Penrith until the end of 2019. Only Sitaleki Akauola from the top 25 squad remains unsigned for next season.

Meanwhile plenty has been made about Griffin’s bench selections in recent weeks in relation to preference given to Moses Leota and Tim Browne over Akauola and Kikau.

When asked the question, Griffin said the pair (Akauola and Kikau) needed to play better, before adding he was happy with the way Leota and Browne were playing.

The experienced Browne leads the team in tackle efficiency, having not missed a tackle in his last two starts but Leota has only played 17 and 12 minutes respectively (the latter as an injury replacement for James Tamou), the kind of minutes Kikau or

Murmurs continue Martin was dropped despite assurances he was injured.

Photo: 77 Media.

Akauola can play.

Tyrone Peachey’s time at centre may have come to an end after being demoted back to the bench last Saturday.

While Peachey has been a handful in attack, his defence has been of concern in 2017.

Having missed just 36 tackles in 24 games last season, Peachey has already missed 19 tackles in seven games played this season at a tackle efficiency of just 75%, well down from nearly 91% in 2016.

With ex-Panther coach Ivan Cleary having now settled into the Wests Tigers role, his former righthand man and current Cowboys assistant coach, David Fairleigh, is the hot favourite to become the new St Helens coach in the English Super League.

Speaking of the Wests Tigers, James Tedesco and Aaron Woods will be leaving the Tigers in 2018 alongside team-mate Mitchell Moses, who was denied his request for an immediate release to Parramatta prior to the Penrith game last Saturday.

As suggested last edition, Cleary who now needs to replace Tedesco, could be tempted to go after Panthers lower grades fullback Dylan Edwards and give him the opportunity to play regular first grade football in his preferred position.

Recently under siege skipper Matt Moylan looks to have at least one friend in high places with the Sunday Telegraph reporting that Laurie Daley will retain the Panthers fullback in the NSW fiveeighth spot for Game One. Another player who could be on the move is hooker Mitch Rein.

OFFER ENDS 31ST MAY 2017

Offer ends 31/5/2017. See in Store for Terms and Conditions.

Despite having signed a two-year contract with Penrith, current speculation suggests the former Dragon could make the mid-season move to Parramatta.

There are also suggestions that Newcastle may also be interested in Rein should their first-choice hooker Rory Kostjasyn be forced to retire following a training mishap.

Rein, who is arguably the form player in the Intrust Super Premiership, with four NSWRL team of the week selections (more than any other player at this point), is understandably said to be frustrated by being stuck behind Peter Wallace for that #9 jersey and has even slapped a media ban on himself.

As reported quite some time ago, it was confirmed last week that Penrith would extend their current five-year deal with Bathurst Regional Council by another ten years that sees the club commit to playing one NRL game per season in Bathurst until at least 2028.

However Panthers Executive General Manager Rugby League Phil Gould AM said the relationship between Panthers and Bathurst Regional Council is more than just an annual NRL fixture.

“We are delighted to now enter into this agreement to continue the association for another ten seasons,” Gould said.

“Our coaching and development staff have been outstanding in providing junior league coaching clinics and Panthers coaching programs to the Bathurst area.

“Kids and parents have come from miles around to take advantage of these clinics.

“It’s our intention to improve and expand these Panthers Academy programs over the next decade.”

Healthy home crowds such as the near 16,000 fans that watched the Cronulla clash, could dwindle in the near future should Penrith’s losing streak extends to five going into their Round Ten clash against the New Zealand Warriors on that awkward Saturday 3pm timeslot.

Congratulations to Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Josh Mansour and their partners, who in coming months are expecting the births of their first child.

See you at the game. #PantherPride

31 Nepean News 27 April 2017 Issue 199

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Thursday, 27 April 2017

sport

Cupples captures NSW Veterans Championship Title

By Noel Rowsell

Leonay Golf Club stalwart Laurie Cupples has won the 2017 NSW Veterans Golf Association Strokeplay Championships, finishing a clear four shots ahead of the field.

The Championships were hosted by the Western Sydney Veteran’s Golf Association for the fourth consecutive year and attracted a huge field of 131 competitors over three days of competition.

Play began on Monday 10th April at Richmond Golf Club, with perennial winner Col Kenning (Kiama GC) leading Cupples on a countback, with both players shooting a red-hot 72 score on a wet, difficult course.

Glenmore Heritage Valley Golf Club provided an even sterner test for the field on Tuesday, with Cupples (80) managing to move into the lead ahead of Graham Leake (The Links Shell Cove) on a countback, as Kenning slipped back into the chasing pack.

There would be a number of hot scores on the final day at Stonecutter’s Ridge Golf Club but Cupples would

• • • •

 Action from the 9th green at Richmond GC. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

prove a worthy champion, closing with a round of 76 to ultimately finish with a four shot advantage on Kenning, who had rallied to claim second spot.

Cupples was awarded the ‘Des Coady Shield’ as the 2017 champion and praised the tournament organisers, the management teams

SALES INSTALLATION SERVICE MAINTENANCE

 Tournament director Les Knox (left) and 2017 champion Laurie Cupples (Leonay GC)

at all three courses and his various playing partners over the three days of the tournament.

The Western Sydney Veterans Golf Association has hosted the last four years of the Championship and has won the right to again host the event in western Sydney for a further three years.

• • • •

DUCTED SYSTEMS SPLIT SYSTEMS REPAIRS VENTILATION