Nepean News 27 May 2022 by Nepean News

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ISSUE 330

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Varied victories Federal election: While the role of Prime Minister has changed to Labor’s Anthony Albanese, and Labor MP Chris Bowen was re-elected in McMahon, local Liberals also enjoyed some victories with local resident Senator Marise Payne re-elected as Liberal Senator and Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh retaining the seat for the Liberals.

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Roycey - what an absolute champion

Nearly there Roycey

oday is the last day of Royce’s Big Walk, from Gooloogong to Penrith to raise awareness for Dimentia. He leaves at 10am from Buttenshaw Park, Faulconbridge (south east of town centre, on Great Western Hwy). Royce Simmons and fellow walkers, including family, arrive at The Royce (next to Panthers) to a guard of honour formed by Royce’s fellow residents to signal the end of the walk. Royce and his wife Liane Simmons live at The Royce. Royce and his family will walk into Bluebet Stadium at approximately 5.15pm. Mate, you are an absolute champion!

Simmo at Cowra rugby league junior open session 2

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Goodwin, Langmack, Lamb, Simmons and supporter

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

ustralia has spoken and changed government - following the federal election held last weekend. In a sweeping victory, Labor was elevated to power with Anthony Albanese becoming the 31st Prime Minister of Australia. Locally, the voting trend wasn’t instep with the rest of the country with Liberal incumbent Melissa McIntosh smashing it in the polls. At the time of going to print over 80 per cent of the votes in Lindsay had been counted, with Ms McIntosh well ahead. “I’m so proud to be returned as your local representative in the Australian Parliament. It’s the best job in the world. Thank you,” Ms McIntosh said. Labor Candidate for Lindsay, Trevor Ross said the overall result was “a massive win for Australia with an Albanese government.” “I’m looking forward to cleaner politics with a federal ICAC, respect for essential workers, and a government who understands that an economy only works when it serves everyone,” Mr Ross said. “I called Melissa Macintosh to congratulate her on her victory, and I wish her well in her term serving the people of Lindsay. “Although my team were unsuccessful, I’m incredibly proud of the campaign we ran. The

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selflessness and love for our community that my team displayed was inspiring, and I’m grateful to each and every one of you.” In our neighbouring electorates of McMahon and Macquarie, Labor’s Chris Bowen and Susan Templeman were both returned in convincing victories. Lindsay at the time of going to print: Liberal Party Melissa McIntosh (MP) Labor Party Trevor Ross Greens Pieter Morssink One Nation Max Jago United Australia Joseph O’Connor Informed Medical Options Rebekah Ray Liberal Democrats Gareth McClure Others Informal Votes Total Votes = 100,269

Vote:47.1% Vote:32.0% Vote:7.8% Vote:5.7% Vote:3.9% Vote:2.0% Vote:1.5% Vote:0.0% 6.2%

44,331 30,097 7,313 5,399 3,692 1,844 1,402 0 6,191

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

ell, if anyone out there predicted the outcome of the federal election, let me know who you are as I need you to come sit next to me on Saturday race days and guide me when I’m having a punt. Sure, a Labor victory was flagged throughout the campaign, but few predicted the rise in the Green vote or the Teal Independents sweeping through and clearing out long-held safe Liberal seats. Our local representatives, Liberal Melissa McIntosh in Lindsay and ALP Chris Bowen in McMahon were convincingly returned to their seats, and local resident Liberal Senator Marise Payne was reelected to her position in the Senate. Melissa McIntosh did extremely well holding her key seat in an unpredictable election. But of course, we have a new Prime Minister in Anthony Albanese. And while Labor voters across the country cheer and Liberal voters lick their wounds, one thing is for sure and that is the sky won’t cave in. There will be some changes and they won’t please everyone; no change ever does. The new government has pledged to focus on uniting the people. One thing I am hoping for is that improving the way we treat women also extends to women who aren’t Labor voters. I saw some pretty horrible treatment of conservative female candidates, and also the former Prime Minister’s wife during the campaign. If we are to get anywhere in improving respect for women, it needs to be ALL women. Labor will govern the country, and the Coalition will try to reinvent itself in opposition and life will resume as a new version of normal for the next three years. If Labor doesn’t do what the the voting public expects, they’ll show them the door come 2025. How lucky we are to live in a democratic country where we, the voters, decide who will govern us. How lucky we are in the light of the horrific school shooting in the US, that we are not a country in denial of its problems in a constitutional enshrined madness. There’s a lot to be thankful for in being Australian.

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epean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) facilities have lowered their carbon footprint with the installation of solar panels at four sites, with more to come. Lithgow, Blue Mountains, and Springwood hospitals, and Portland Tabulam Aged Care facility are now fitted with solar panels as part of NBMLHD’s commitment to become more energy efficient. Nepean Hospital and the Mental Health Unit on the Nepean campus will also be part of the rollout due for completion later this month. When completed the project will deliver 2,242 photovoltaic panels installed with a combined capacity to generate 1,023 kilowatts (kW) of electricity. “The installation is predicted to save our hospitals around $185,000 in electricity bills each year with the savings being invested back into delivering vital health services for our region,” says Kay Hyman, NBMLHD Chief Executive. “This is the first of several sustainability initiatives that sees our LHD working towards a sustainable and healthy future for our community,” says Ms Hyman. Energy and Sustainability Business Partner, Scott Hanson is driving energy reduction outcomes at NBMLHD.

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith “These projects will help us achieve our commitment to reducing our environmental impact through energy management and resource effectiveness as outlined in our Sustainability Plan 2019-23,” says Mr Hanson. “In addition to significantly reducing costs, the project also demonstrates a responsibility for the future of our community and commitment to government targets by reducing carbon emissions,” says Mr Hanson. The Energy Performance Contract project is now working on upgrading more than 13,000 lights across the LHD with the potential to save $685,000 in power and maintenance costs. The NSW Government has invested $14.5 million for energy emission and solar upgrade projects of which NBMLHD is part of.

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Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Days away from lightweight bag ban

arking a major pivot away from singleuse plastics, the NSW Government’s ban on lightweight plastic bags will come into force next week. Minister for Environment James Griffin said the lightweight plastic bag ban is the first of many plastic items being banned in NSW this year. “I think all of us can see the impact plastic pollution is having on our environment, which is why we’re making major changes in NSW this year,” Mr Griffin said. “The ban on lightweight single-use bags comes into place from 1 June, and then from November, we’re banning more problematic plastics, such as cutlery and plates. “Single-use plastic is used by many of us for just a few convenient minutes, but it remains in our environment for many years, eventually breaking into microplastics. “Single-use plastic items and packaging make up 60 per cent of all litter in NSW. By stopping the supply of problematic plastic in the first place, we’re helping prevent it from entering our environment as litter, or going into landfill. “We each have the power to make positive environmental change at an individual level, and I encourage everyone to choose to go plastic-free as often as they can.” The NSW Government passed the Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021 in November, and introduced the Plastics Action Plan last year. The ban will prevent almost 2.7 billion items of

plastic litter from entering the environment in NSW over the next 20 years. In addition to the 1 June lightweight plastic bag ban, from November the NSW Government is banning:

• single-use plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates, bowls and cotton buds • expanded polystyrene food ware and cups • rinse-off personal care products containing plastic microbeads. So-called “compostable” and “bioplastic” alternatives to the above items are also being banned. That’s because they don’t biodegrade unless they’re treated in an industrial composting facility, creating just as much of a problem as conventional plastic. To ensure small businesses are ready for the changes this year, the NSW Government engaged the National Retail Association (NRA) to deliver a comprehensive retailer education campaign. Minister for Small Business Eleni Petinos said the NSW Government is supporting more than 40,000 businesses across NSW to phase-out single-use plastics. “The NSW Government has worked with stakeholders to support small businesses to understand how they will be affected, how to comply with new laws and what alternatives they can use to single-use plastics,” Ms Petinos said. “Through the NRA, we’re running a retailer education campaign, conducting store visits, and providing online webinars and resources to help businesses make the adjustment away from singleuse plastics.” The NRA has launched a free hotline (1800 844 946) to offer businesses, community organisations and consumers advice on the single-use plastic bans. For more information about the NSW plastics ban, visit www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/plastics-ban

Penrith cheers its local volunteers Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith is calling on nominations for the new Community Heroes Initiative. “There are many individuals in Penrith who contribute so much of their time to helping our community organisations, local clubs, sporting groups and businesses,” Stuart Ayres said. “The NSW Community Heroes Certificates are one way we can show our appreciation to volunteers everywhere. Volunteers are quiet achievers, always displaying selfless acts of service and I’m glad we can celebrate them with these certificates.” Minister for Families and

Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the NSW Community Heroes Certificates were being presented to volunteers as a gesture of appreciation for their immense contribution to our society. “The COVID-19 pandemic and more recently, the floods, highlight the immeasurable impact volunteers make in supporting our state,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said. If you would like to nominate an individual who has been a prominent volunteer in the Penrith community, please contact our office at penrith@parliament.nsw. gov.au or 02 4722 8660.

Space camp wins nsw health Award Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s (NBMLHD) Space Camp program has won a 2021 NSW Health Award. “With a staggering 192 nominations from across the state’s public health system, this is a fantastic achievement for the NBMLHD and their Space Camp Program,”

“NBMLHD are to be commended for their exceptional contribution to mental health care services,” said Stuart Ayres. The Space Camp program, is a neuroscience, evidence-informed, early intervention program that supports families and school staff to meet a child’s broad developmental needs. It is responsive to a child’s unique diversities to help optimise

childhood wellbeing. Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District said they are very proud of Space Camp and of its contribution to excellence in NSW healthcare. NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce said all eleven winners are outstanding examples of how staff continued to deliver excellent, patient-centred care during a very challenging year. “The NSW Health Awards are a

celebration of the many exceptional people who constantly strive to make our hospitals and services more responsive to the needs of our patients and their families,” Ms Pearce said. “I am in awe of the determination, community spirit and dedication constantly exhibited by NSW Health staff and extend my warmest congratulations to the 2021 winners and finalists.”

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enrith City Council is opening two grant funding programs in May and is inviting local non-profit organisations and community groups to apply. Applications are now open for grants under the ClubGRANTS program, and Community Assistance Program (CAP) grants. Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said both programs will enable funds to be distributed to local organisations who play a significant role in supporting the needs of the community. “The grants will allow community organisations to plan and run events and projects that benefit our community, it helps the organisations themselves build the kinds of skills, resources and networks that allow them to grow,” Cr Hitchen said. “Often these organisations do a lot with very little and enrich the lives of many, often working together with other community groups to achieve better outcomes for the people of Penrith City.” CAP Grants Council’s annual Community Assistance Program (CAP) offers grants of up to $1,500 for local nonprofit community groups to use toward projects that strengthen the community, address community needs and improve opportunities for participation in Penrith City. Focused on supporting local non-profit community groups to meet community needs, CAP is a great opportunity for local volunteering and community groups to receive help in getting their worthwhile ideas off the ground. Community groups can use CAP to: • Connect to their local community • Deliver programs differently

• Expand or adapt their services for new and growing needs • Purchase resources • Develop their skills Projects are prioritised according to the eligibility and assessment criteria. To be eligible for funding, projects must: • be delivered by community based non-profit

organisations • be one off activities (suitable for one off funding) • be of direct benefit to Penrith City residents • encourage participation by Penrith City residents, including disadvantaged community members (in line with Council’s Access and Equity Principles). Round opens on Monday 30 May until Friday 8 July. ClubGrants Each year clubs across NSW provide support to tens of thousands of local community organisations and charities that make a difference in their local area. Penrith Category 1 ClubGRANTS is a community development funding program sponsored by local Registered Clubs and administered by Penrith City Council. To be eligible, applicants must be a not-for-profit organisation with projects that address specific community welfare and social services, community development, health services and employment assistance activities, as well as projects aimed at improving the living standards of low income and disadvantaged people. In 2021, ClubGRANTS committed over $546,000 to 30 organisations in the Penrith LGA for the delivery of 31 projects. These projects increased community wellbeing and supported a diverse range of groups across the community.   Round opens on Monday 16 May until Friday 17 June. For information, eligibility criteria and applications for CAP Grants and ClubGRANTS visit penrith.city/grants

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Grant funding available for local community organisations

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Maths the solution to future careers

xciting new ambassadors are showing students where maths can take them in their future careers, as part of a NSW Government campaign to change perceptions of maths among young people.    Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said maths was more than just a subject learned in school as she joined The Block star Dan Reilly and singer Mahalia Barnes to kick start the new phase of the campaign. “Having strong maths skills opens a world of possibility for young people,” Ms Mitchell said. “Maths develops capabilities for life and provides students with lasting fundamental skills in problem solving, analysis and reasoning, which are relevant to most careers.” The latest campaign links parents to new resources within the Everyday Maths hub, bringing new maths solutions, challenges, games and fun experiences into students’ homes.   “These new resources encourage and support parents, carers and students from various backgrounds to think and act mathematically outside the school gates,” Ms Mitchell said. “Parents do not need to be a maths whizz to help their children succeed, taking a positive and proactive attitude to maths at home leads to better grades in the classroom.” A new feature of the hub is a dedicated culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) section across five

different languages and more than 30 new pieces of content related to financial literacy, mathematics in careers, and mathematics in the modern world. Dan Reilly said things like working out angles, lengths and areas are essential on The Block and that it’s maths skills like these that make a career in building and construction possible. Mahalia Barnes said helping her daughters with their relationship to maths is essential to their music.

“I’m helping them along their journey as they discover the patterns and progressions we see in maths that helps us with our music,” Mahalia said. The #MathsTrainsBrains campaign is part of the NSW Mathematics Strategy, a seven-year program aimed at helping students develop the mathematical skills and understanding they need to succeed in life. Recently, feedback on the Year 3-10 Mathematics syllabuses was provided during public consultation as part of NSW’s vital Curriculum

Reform agenda. The draft syllabuses continue to focus on strengthening mathematics and numeracy skills across every year level and build on the fundamental work already being implemented in Kindergarten to Year 2 mathematics. The final syllabuses will be available to schools later in 2022 for implementation from 2023. Parents and carers can visit the Everyday Maths hub to engage with their children on mathematics in everyday life.

Hospital volunteers appreciated across our district

Sad passing of Pam Nelson Nepean Hockey Association Life Member Pam Nelson sadly passed away last week. “Pam was an incredible servant to our sport through firstly Western Districts and then Nepean Hockey Association,” said Kieran Knowles from Nepean Hockey. “Her compassion and commitment to our sport won’t be forgotten.” A minute’s silence was observed before all hockey games on the weekend and as an acknowledgement of Pam’s passion for umpiring and in developing umpires, all umpires wore a black arm band. Pam was a great supporter of Nepean News and we always appreciated and highly valued her thoughts. RIP Pam Nelson, we send our love to Jan Harrison, and to all Pam’s friends and family.

This National Volunteers Week we celebrate the significant contribution and celebrate the wonderful work our volunteers do every day. “From manning the Volunteers or Auxiliary Shop, supporting families, and directing visitors at Hospitals around our District – our volunteers generously dedicate their time and care to supporting our patients, staff and visitors,” a spokesperson from Nepean Blue Mountains Area health District said. “They answer our questions, show us the way and always greet us with a smile, like Paula (pictured) volunteering at the Blue Mountains Hospital’s Auxiliary Shop. “Please thank or give them a wave and a smile next time you see them in the corridors!”

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ith winter well on its way and both flu and COVID-19 circulating the community, it’s not too late to protect yourself from serious illness. Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Director of Public Health, Dr Victor Carey says it is important to protect yourself and your community by getting your flu shot and staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations. “With international borders reopening, increased social mixing and lower exposure to flu over the past two years, more people of all ages will be at risk of getting flu this year than in the past two years,” says Victor. “In particular, we’re concerned for young children aged two and under. Due to the COVID pandemic children these ages have never lived through a flu season or gained immunity to the virus. We highly recommend an influenza vaccination to help protect them from the flu this year.” Some people are eligible to receive a free flu vaccination as they may be more vulnerable to severe illness from the flu: • children from 6 months to under 5 years of age • people with serious health conditions (including severe asthma,

diabetes, cancer, immune disorders, obesity, kidney, heart, lung or liver disease) • pregnant women • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from 6 months of age • people who are 65 years of age and over. Dr Carey recommends we all take some simple precautions to help

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protect one another: • If you are sick, stay at home and avoid close contact with other people • Wear a mask in indoor spaces if you are unable to physically distance • Gather in well ventilated spaces or open windows and doors • Sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands • Wash your hands thoroughly and

often. Everyone aged 6 months and older is recommended to receive the flu vaccine. Vaccinations are available through GPs for everyone aged six months and over. Vaccinations are also available through pharmacies for everyone aged 10 and over. For more information visit www.nsw.gov.au/flu

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Winter is coming – stay safe and get vaccinated

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Penola’s Royal Easter Show Success

enola Catholic College in Emu Plains competed with their own cattle for the first time in this year’s Royal Easter Show. Two year 12 students and four year 10 students with their teacher Miss Emily Wilson entered three beef cattle; one trade steer and two pure-bred steers as well as the school egg laying competition and the school meat bird pairs competition. The students worked extremely hard preparing the animals in the lead up to the Show. They had a week at the Show where they had early mornings and late nights making sure their animals were looking their best! Competition day and the students were there at 5am preparing the steers playfully named Simon, Theodore and Alvin. It was pouring with rain, but the students did a wonderful job and the steers were very well behaved in the ring. Later at the auction the students were absolute professionals parading the two purebred steers Simon and Theodore in the full auditorium. Penola were extremely successful at the Sydney Royal Easter Show winning: - Two Sydney Royal Easter Show Bronze Medals for Purebred Carcases. - Two Sydney Royal Easter Show Third Prizes for The StanHill

Memorial Trophy Interbreed Group of Three Steers. - 5th Place Sydney Royal Easter Show Pigeon and Poultry Meat Bird Pair. - 10th Place Sydney Royal Easter Show Pigeon and Poultry Meat Bird Pair. Penola want to thank The Sydney Royal Easter Show for running a great show and the animal breeders who supplied them with these cattle: Weethalle Square Meaters, Palmerston Square Meaters and St Gregory’s College. Congratulations to the companies that purchased the steers at the show; Makani Meats, GF & VC Hardwicks Wholesale and Woolworths.

(L-R) Holly Lampard Year 12, Miss Emily Wilson, Marshall Pereira Year 10, Darcy Hopton Year 10, Samantha Rowe Year 12, Chloe Riley Year 10, Montana La Rosa Year 10

(L-R) Darcy Hopton Year 10, Marshall Pereira Year 10, Holly Lampard Year 12 Miss Emily Wilson, Chloe Riley Year 10, Samantha Rowe Year 12, Montana La Rosa Year 10

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith encourages local people to explore opportunities to get a first job, a new job or a better job as part of National Careers Week (16-22 May). Stuart Ayres said the NSW Government is funding a range of fee-free and low-fee training courses to help people get the skills they need for the jobs they want. “We want to turbocharge the take-up of vocational education and training by slashing the cost of courses and helping people get skilled for jobs,” Stuart Ayres said. “The NSW Government’s record infrastructure investment is creating jobs and driving demand for skilled workers in everything from traditional trades to new and emerging industries. “There are so many incredible opportunities in NSW and National Careers Week is the perfect time for people to explore what’s out there.” Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the NSW Government is also offering free career guidance, information and advice through Careers NSW. “Careers NSW is a whole-of-life, one-stop-shop for everyone in the state to help people unlock their potential by empowering them to make informed decisions about their career path,” Mr Henskens said. “There has never been a better time to explore your future and Careers NSW can provide information on everything from traditional trades to new and emerging industries.”

Adam Liaw – Careers NSW Ambassador, chef, writer, TV presenter & Stuart Ayres MP

People are also encouraged to visit the Skills NSW website and explore short courses and training opportunities available to help people upskill or re-skill.

The website also allows people to explore industries and potential job opportunities, and find out the skills and training they need for employment.

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Opportunities to get skilled for work

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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Beloved Trees for Mum event celebrates successful 15 years

enrith mums, grandmothers, aunts, and mother figures have been celebrated and honoured with a special Trees for Mum event held by Penrith City Council’s Bushcare team on Mother’s Day. The popular and beloved Trees for Mum event saw a record-breaking turnout for its 15th year, with 228 participants from the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) and other LGAs planting a total of 225 native plants grown from Council’s very own nursery. The event encourages attendees to write a message for their mum, grandmother, aunt, or mother figure, and dedicate their planted tree in her honour. Councillor Robin Cook attended the day and praised the event for its heartwarming purpose and inclusivity. “It was a fantastic and really positive event on Sunday. There were over 200 trees planted and provided by the nursery; one of those I planted

personally, which was a Melaleuca,” Cr Cook said. “People were there for varying reasons; many planting trees as a dedication to a loved one or to people who inspired them as mums,” she said. “I am a proud supporter of Council’s nursery and the hardworking team behind it. The nursery’s revitalisation provides the opportunity to propagate more native plants for Penrith City. The nursery’s contribution is so valuable

for special Council events like this one and lets the community find out more about our local environment. “Especially since COVID, people are becoming more aware of the value of nature and having these areas to go to and appreciate. “With the heat problems we face here, there has also been an increase in interest in tree planting.” Trees for Mum plays an integral role in seeing Council’s Cooling the

City Strategy come to life, with the Strategy outlining the ways Council and the community work together to address the urban heat island effect and to lower temperatures across the City. Planting trees has been identified by the Strategy as a simple yet beneficial way to help cool our community’s open spaces. Council has shared a Facebook photo album of the event on its Facebook page, which can be found at facebook.com/penrith.city.council Council encourages participants to return to Blue Hills Wetland in Glenmore Park to see how their trees are growing. These trees will help provide habitat and shelter for local wildlife and cool the neighbouring community with additional shade. To keep up to date with similar tree planting events, and to book the first spots for Trees for Dad for Father’s Day in September, subscribe to the Bushcare Bulletin at penrith.city/ bushcarebulletin

Think Outside the Square blanket challenge For the sixth year running – the team at The Creative Fringe have been collecting knitted squares for their “Think Outside the Square blanket challenge.” Members of the community were requested to knit 20cm x 20cm squares that were then turned into beautifully knitted blankets. These blankets are to be distributed to some of Penrith’s most disadvantaged locals, bringing warmth and comfort during our cooler months. On Wednesday 1st June, 2022 at 10:00am we will be handing over our completed blankets, which currently amounts to 330 blankets just in our first handover. All these incredible blankets are going to local charity groups Platform Youth Services, WeCollect, Penrith Community Kitchens, WestCare Community Services, The Haven Women’s Shelter Penrith and Link Wentworth - Together Homes. This means a significant number of Penrith’s rough sleepers, domestic violence survivors, mental health sufferers, elderly and disadvantaged community members will be wrapped

in love, colour and warmth during the bitter winter months. The generosity from the community has been overwhelming. The Creative Fringe has received donations not just from the local Penrith area but from all across the country, some coming from as far as Central Queensland and

Victoria. There are so many incredible stories, from volunteers young and old - children in schools learning to knit so they can be a part of this, aged care facilities have now joined in volunteering their sewing groups to help us reach the targets. Those

in cancer remission, undergoing treatment, therapy, police officers and lawyers who knit their way through their Netflix series, everyday members of the community who just want to give of their time, along with many disability groups that are now participating as a way to give back to our local community in need. The “Think Outside the Square Blanket Challenge” is not done yet. With another handover happening at the end of July – our aim is to donate 350 blankets for 2022, an increase of 100 from last year and we have almost reached our yearly target in the first 2 months of our challenge. This equates to approx. 13,860 individual squares! To get involved head to www.thecreativefringe.com.au or follow us on FB. For all the information on this community challenge contact Barb Howard, Community Manager at The Creative Fringe or head to https:// thecreativefringe.com.au/product/ thinkoutside-the-square-blanketchallenge/or call 1300 722 896.

Helping young people in Penrith get back in the game Disengaged young people in Penrith will benefit from the expansion of a NSW Government program which aims to connect them with education, training and employment. Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith said the highly successful Get Back in the Game program is being expanded, with local provider Yourtown contracted to deliver services to local young people. “This program has helped thousands of young people across the State and now it will support young people aged 15-19 locally,” Stuart Ayres said. “When young people disengage from education, this program provides a helping hand to reconnect them with positive training and employment

opportunities.” Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said Get Back in the Game will focus on young people who are still at school but struggling to engage with education, as well as those who have left school but are finding it difficult to make effective transitions into training or employment. “More than 7,000 young people have discovered areas of interest, developed career plans, and either engaged in work or training or headed back to complete their secondary school education, since the program started in 2016,” Ms Mitchell said. “This expansion will further the program’s reach and help more young people finish school, access training and get a job.”

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the program helps young people gain employability skills, identify career pathways and establish valuable connections with employers and industry. “We want to ensure that every young person in NSW has an opportunity to reach their potential and find a job they want,” Mr Henskens said. “This program is a win-win – it will support vulnerable young people while benefiting employers across a range of industries who are crying out for skilled workers.” More information about the program which is already running across regional NSW is available online.

local news By Noel Rowsell

enrith National Servicemen’s Association Inc (Nashos) celebrated its 16th Anniversary Memorial and Tribute Laying Ceremony on Sunday 22nd May 2022 at the St Mary’s Diggers and Band Club. This service is held each year in remembrance of all National Servicemen and women who have served. Penrith Nashos received it’s charter and flag on 7th April 2002 and each year since 2006, members proudly attend this service to commemorate National Servicemen’s Day. The opening address was given by President Harry May, followed by the Prayer of Remembrance by Vice President Ken McPherson. Other dignitaries to officiate at the service included State Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres, Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, Ross Fowler representing Penrith City Council, Brad Siveright of St Mary’s RSL Sub Branch, Graham Larkham Secretary National Servicemen’s Association and Penrith Nashos member Laurie Coady. Major General Paul Irving (Retired) gave the Commemorative Address on National Service and the value the the National Servicemen made to Australia, whilst the Cadets from Blue Mountains 323 Air Force Squadron Glenbrook formed the Catafalque Party. The Ropes Crossing Girl Guides were also in attendance and laid a wreath, Tyler Watson from

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Penrith Nashos commemorate National Servicemen’s Day

Members of Penrith Nashos with Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh. Photo supplied

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts HS played the Last Post and Reveille. The Benediction was given by Vice President Roy Young. Penrith National Servicemen’s Association would like to acknowledge the following people and organisations for their help and assistance with helping make the Memorial Day a success. Melissa McIntosh MP Member for Lindsay and Patron, Mr Stuart Ayres MP, Penrith City

Council for maintaining the memorial in Memory Park, Diggers and Band Club Management for providing the venue for the service and refreshments, Jim Aitken and Ross Sinclair (Patrons), 323 Squadron Air Force Cadets, Ropes Crossing Girl Guides and Nepean Creative Arts HS. The Committee of Penrith NASHO’S, particularly Harry May and Graham Larkham, who all made this Memorial Service a success.

Vaccinate against Leptospirosis bacterial infection

ith the recent increase in rain and once again mouse plagues, it is worth keeping in mind how this may affect our canine friends. Due to potential transmission of Leptospirosis, Veterinarians are encouraging dog owners to ensure their pets have been vaccinated against this disease as we are seeing more of this disease than previous years gone by. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection which can be spread among animals, in several ways, but most commonly through rat urine that finds way into local waterways. The disease is relatively rare in Australia, found mostly in rural areas that are warm and moist, such as north-eastern NSW and Queensland. Unfortunately we have seen a rise in the number of cases of Leptospirosis -- or lepto as it is also known, in and around Surry Hills, Redfern and Darlinghurst, in the middle of Sydney. It is important to note that this disease can be fatal to our pets and transmitted to humans. There are no specific symptoms associated with leptospirosis. Often dogs and cats that have contracted the disease are off-colour, lethargic and have lost their appetite.

In more serious cases, pets will suffer from vomiting, diarrhoea or seizures, whilst owners may be able to notice jaundice or yellow discolouration in the animal’s gums, eyes and skin. Vets can arrange a specific test to check for Leptospirosis if they are suspicious of contamination. Affected animals are put in isolation and given strong antibiotics which can reduce the risk of the disease spreading. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease,

which means it can be passed on to humans. People at risk generally have close contact with animals or are exposed to water, mud, soil, or vegetation contaminated with animal urine. The good news is that there are vaccinations available for dogs to prevent this disease. If you are in an at-risk area, the advice is to talk with the Veterinarians at Greencross Vets about vaccinating against the disease.

A routine annual C7 vaccination will cover Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Kennel Cough, Leptospirosis and Coronavirus. Penrith pet owners should make themselves familiar with the disease’s signs and symptoms so they can act quickly if they think their pet is infected. Concerned owners can contact Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on (02) 4731 3055.

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

Legends of the Nepean Bob Aitken AM JP By Noel Rowsell

Bob & Ann Aitken

Bob Aitken & Gladys Berejiklian

n addition to running Bob Aitken Media, his own media company, Bob Aitken AM JP is currently the Chairman of Rotary District 9685 Polio Committee, the Rotary International (RI) ‘END POLIO NOW’ Coordinator for Zone 8 and Chairman of the RI Zone 8 History and Archives Committee and, as such, he had charge of planning, researching and writing the ‘Centenary of Rotary in Australia: 1927-2021. Among an extraordinarily long list of achievements and awards, Bob is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, a recipient of RI’s ‘Service Above Self’ award and the Australian Rotary Health Medal, a member of the Rotary Club

Bob Aitken

of the Lower Blue Mountains, former District Governor (DG) District 9690 / 9685, Project Manager NSW Graffiti Removal Day and Chairman of Graffiti Removal Australia. He is a Life Member of the NSW Parents and Teachers Association as a result of 10 years of leadership at Parkes and Blaxland High Schools. A lifetime of work in media (journalism and media management), including 27 years as Managing Editor of ‘Rotary Down Under’, ensured Bob was the perfect candidate as Executive Director of Rotary Down Under Inc, which specialised in public relations and corporate development. Bob was a world traveller for Rotary and it was no surprise his love and passion for the organisation would ensure his ongoing involvement after retirement.

Bob Aitken

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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Bob Aitken AM JP was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Noel Rowsell. If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com

Bob Aitken & Zulu Chief 1987

Born in Parkes in 1945, Bob lived with his family on a wheat and sheep farm (Wattlegrove), 10 miles west of Parkes. His education commenced at a one-teacher school in the village of Nelungaloo and apart from the school, the town comprised a Post Office, wheat silo, stock yards and a couple of homes. The family moved into Parkes and Bob continued his education at Parkes PS and Parkes HS, excelling in sport rather than academics and in doing so, setting his life on its amazing journey through sports. In 1963, Bob accepted a cadetship in journalism with the Parkes Champion Post. He became editor in 1969 and Managing Editor in 1972, serving in the latter role until taking on the role of Managing Editor of Rotary Down Under magazine in 1984. The Aitken family moved to Lapstone when Bob accepted the role as Editor of Rotary Down Under, which included Australia,

Bob Aitken, daughter Corrina, grandchildren Max, Annie Rose and Jordan

New Zealand and the surrounding Pacific Islands. The magazine flourished under Bob’s guidance, moving from Black & White to a colour edition, then to an online digital production. Bob also organised a fund-raising appeal, which not only purchased Rotary Down Under House in Parramatta but also secured the financial future of the magazine. Bob completed two terms as Chairman of the Rotary World Magazine Press Advisory Group (31 magazines in 24 languages) and was advisor to the RI Board of Directors in that time. He had also previously served as Chairman of the RI Communications Committee (2 terms) and General Coordinator of the RI Public Image Resource Group (4 terms), along with many other RI special committee groups. He was vice chair of the Host Organisation Committee for the RI Convention in Sydney in 2014. Sport was an essential component in Bob’s life and he not only played

Prime Minister John Howard & Bob Aitken

many different sports but also served on committees and organisations, keen to advance both the respective sport and the athletes who competed in them. He served as President of the Parkes Junior and Senior Hockey Associations, President of Parkes Basketball Association, President of Magpies Hockey Club, Secretary of the Parkes Cricket Association, Secretary of the Central West Cricket Council, played as a first grade representative for Parkes Cricket Association for 25 years and organised and led three international cricket tours to New Zealand, Fiji and Great Britain. He represented NSW Country against the West Indies at Dubbo in 1975. Bob has been NSW Hockey Association Coach of the Year on two occasions and coached NSW junior men’s and women’s teams for six years, winning two national titles. He is a Life Member of NSW Hockey Association and served as vice chairman of the State body for six years.

Bob Aitken & Allan Jones

Bob was the Media Manager for Hockey at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and in 2007, was named a Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia Queen’s Birthday Honours List – for services to sport and the community through Rotary. The Federation of International Hockey selected Bob for two special coaching assignments to grow the game in Fiji, in 1989 and 1990. Bob and wife Ann were married in 1967 and have two children, David and Corrina, and three grandchildren. Ann was also an outstanding sportswoman, excelling in hockey, softball and netball. The sporting genes from Bob and Ann have passed down to the children and grandchildren, with daughter Corrina having represented Australia as a junior (U21’s), a long-term member of the NSW Women’s team and is now one of Penrith’s leading hockey coaches. Granddaughter Annie Rose has been selected in the NSW U/21 Blues Women’s Hockey team, grandson Max is one of Penrith’s leading junior hockey umpires and grandson Jordan has just been selected as fullback for the Australian Army Rugby Union team.

Indian cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar and Bob Aitken

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Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

local news

20 years and 20 lives changed forever

unning a business is not easy, so when local branding studio White River Design (WRD) turned 20 years old, they decided to take a moment to celebrate this milestone. Founder Debbie O’Connor who lives in Glenmore Park, moved from South Africa to Australia in 2000 after marrying local Penrith resident David O’Connor. In 2002 when she was 5 months pregnant, her boss at the time told her that they would not be giving her maternity leave. Instead of getting upset she decided to register a business name and freelance for a year while taking a bit of time off to raise her son. She named her business White River Design, as White River is her home town in South Africa where most of her family still live. This is her little piece of home she gets to have with her each and everyday. Not knowing anyone other than her husband and his family, Ms O’Connor found that starting a business was incredibly isolating and daunting. She sought business advice from the Western Sydney Business Centre (back then it was called the BEC). To get the studio off the ground she published The Glenmore Park Business Directory which ran for 8 years before

she sold it under the brand name of DirectoryCentral. The business was run from home for the first 8 years before they decided to move into premises on Henry Street – right next door to the Western Sydney Business Centre. Within 3 years they had outgrown the space which is when they decided to open The Creative Fringe – a co-working space where like-minded people can come together, connect, collaborate and get work done. Today Debbie is a published author,

a Keynote Speaker and the Vice President of the Penrith Chamber of Commerce. She has won Penrith Business Person of the Year twice and was named Mulgoa Woman of the Year. WRD has created brands for clients all over the world, is famous for their online Brand Personalities quiz and has won multiple awards, including 3 Sydney Design Awards. At the 20 Years in Business party, Debbie shared that in honour of 20 years, WRD was sponsoring 20 African

children from her local community to attend the Good Work Foundation program for a year. They have also committed to sponsor a child every time they onboard a new client. This is Debbie’s way of ensuring that she builds brands that literally change lives. The pre-sale launch of Debbie’s latest book, Brand Magic, How to Create a Brand with Personality was also revealed at the event. You can pre-order your copy here: www.brandmagic. com.au/brand-magic-book.

The election wash up by the G spot With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

otta give congrats where it’s due and congratulations to Albo for a pretty good campaign - regardless of which party I always respect our Leader and that’s how I have been bought up. He came from a pretty challenging background and now he is our PM - you have to admire that. Politics is a pretty hard game and less and less people are signing up for it, because quite frankly who wants to be harassed on social media and in life - who signs up for that crap? I know some people are saying - holy hell let’s move to Mars now - but all in all, it will chug the same for at least six months anyway, not much will change - besides Anthony getting political speech training. In all fairness. Albo’s speech appeared more relatable last night and was like having a beer at the

pub with ya mates - but will he survive the pub test ? Who knows ? At the end of the day he is now our PM and we need to get on with it doing what we are doing - Scomo will be like John Paul Young’s song Yesterday’s Hero and life will go on …. I know that the election was about as enjoyable as a Brazilian wax last night with luke warm wax and a trainee doing it - but as a nation we need to chug on. Locally we retained Melissa McIntosh MP - she should be pretty proud of herself in the bloodbath last night. In all honesty, both people, Trevor and Melissa acted with integrity throughout this. Melissa rose above the ashes and did a sterling job with a smashing amount of votes - ironically traditionally Labor areas were voting for her and some tight liberal areas voting Labor - showing that people simply had no idea or wanted change.

The amount of donkey votes was off the scale indicating that the people 1. Didn’t give a rat’s Or 2. Too thick to work out the voting process I was number 2 - thankfully I had a how to vote card on me - that also served as getting food out from in between my teeth also! So all in all the election was about as much fun as having an ashtray on a motorcycle handle bar - will I get that five hours back of my life? The answer is no. As Doris said, “Que sera sera” All in all the important thing is, let’s hope Albo has a face as tight as a fishes’ bottom or he will get done for smirking. Congrats to Albo on being elected our new Prime Minister and people, let’s let him get on with the job.

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ENTERTAINMENT

eaturing Andy Bromberger “When the guns talk, the muses fall silent” is an old Russian saying which perfectly sums up music during World War I. Between 1914 and 1918 barely one lasting opera was written, the symphony was almost abandoned, and literature went unwritten. The miseries of mass mobilisation, trench warfare and millions of fatalities left artists bereft of creativity. But what music was written during this time reflected the changing attitudes of society and a new vulnerability

which came about from the tragedies of war. TICKET PRICE This event is FREE with ticket registration. We invite patrons to support us through our donation portal to help us ensure the creative heart of Western Sydney keeps beating. DATE & TIME Wednesday 8 June, 11am VENUE Mullins Studio, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street, Penrith

The Art of Fashion: 1920’s Evening Gowns Sunday 26 June, 2pm Penrith Regional Gallery 86 River Road, Emu Plains A presentation by the Cavalcade of History and Fashion and The Friends of Penrith Regional Gallery Take a journey back to the 1920s; a post war decade of elegant fashion, liberated women and inspired designers, artists and artisans. An era often remembered for its glitz and glamour, with an underlying move toward simplicity in dress. For women, this meant shorter skirts, simpler shapes and the rejection of formality and multiple layers in favour of comfort and a lighter, more natural style. Simplicity in construction was the key to both day wear and evening wear, creating the popular tubular dress with dropped waist and creeping hemlines that came to typify the “flapper” style. Evening wear benefited from ornate decoration: beadwork, sequins, and embroidery to create the glamorous night-time looks of the decade. The Friends of the Gallery invite you to the Cavalcade of History and Fashion’s presentation of some of their finest beaded and embellished 1920’s evening dresses and stunning

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Music of World War 1

capes; illustrating the influences of the post-World War I Art Deco design, the Paris avant-garde, haute couture designers and artists, and the artisan embroiderers who made such creations possible. Hear about the design influences, the embroidery ateliers and the techniques of machine and hand beading. The gowns, on hangers, will be walked through the audience during the presentation by white gloved assistants so audience members can get a closer look at the details of these gowns. An original armlet, owned by the mother of one of the Friends and worn for her debut in 1925, will be worn by her daughter on the day. Wear your 1920s inspired outfit or accessories and have your photo taken with a 1929 Ford Model A coupe that will also be at the Gallery on the day. Afternoon tea is included in the price. Cost $35 payable in advance by credit card or cash at The Gallery, online: penrithregionalgallery.com.au or by phone 4735 1100. All proceeds from the day go toward the restoration of artworks and support of the Gallery.

THE FRIENDS OF

The Cavalcade of History and Fashion The Art of Fashion: 1920s Evening Gowns What happened when artists and fashion designers collaborated? Along with cutting hair short, the corset was discarded and the waistline dropped to the hips. Beaded and sequinned gowns caught the light as you danced the Charleston. See original examples from this dazzling era. Wear your 1920s outfit and have your photograph taken with a 1929 Ford Model A Coupe between 2pm-3pm!

Sunday 26th June 2022 2pm Afternoon Tea followed by the presentation at 3pm at The Gallery 86 River Rd, Emu Plains Cost: $35 Bookings and payment essential before Wednesday 22nd June. Pay by cash or credit card Ph 4735 1100 email: gallery@penrith.city or online penrithregionalgallery.com.au A Cavalcade presentation includes examples from the collection with commentary. The Cavalcade of History and Fashion is an organisation with a collection of original historic gowns and accessories with provenance, dating from the 1700s preserving Australia’s social and fashion history. www.thecavalcade.org

ENTERTAINMENT

have no idea who she is, where she came from, or how she got in. I certainly did not invite her. All I know is that one day she wasn’t there, and the next day she was. She is a clever old lady and manages to keep out of sight for the most part, but whenever I pass a mirror, I catch a glimpse of her. And, whenever I look in the mirror to check my appearance, there she is hogging the whole thing, completely obliterating my gorgeous face and body. This is very rude! I have tried screaming at her, but she just screams back. The least she could do is offer to pay part of the bills, but no. Every once in a while, I find a $5 bill stuck in a coat pocket or some loose change under a sofa cushion, but it is not nearly enough. And I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but I think she is stealing money from me. I go to the ATM and withdraw $50 and a few days later, it’s all gone! I certainly don’t spend money that fast, so I can only conclude the old lady is pilfering from me. You’d think she would spend some of that money to buy wrinkle cream. And money isn’t the only thing I think she is stealing. Food seems to disappear at an alarming rateespecially the good stuff like ice cream, chips, and sweets. She must have a real sweet tooth, but she’d better watch because she is really packing on the pounds. I suspect she realizes this, and to make herself feel better, she is tampering with my scale to make me think I am putting on weight, too. For an old lady, she is quite childish. She

likes to play nasty games, like going into my wardrobes when I’m not home and altering my clothes so they don’t fit. And she messes with my files and papers so I can’t find anything. This is particularly annoying since I am extremely neat and organized. She has found other imaginative ways to annoy me. She gets into my mail, newspapers, and magazines before I do and blurs the print so I can’t read it. And she has done something really sinister to the volume controls on my TV, radio, and telephone. Now, all I hear are mumbles and whispers. She has done other things-like make my stairs steeper, my vacuum heavier and all the knob and taps harder to turn. She even made my bed higher so that getting into and out of it is a real challenge. Lately, she has been fooling with my groceries before I put them away, applying glue to the lids, making it almost impossible for me to open the jars. She has taken the fun out of shopping for clothes. When I try something on, she stands in front of the dressing room mirror and monopolizes it. She looks totally ridiculous in some of those outfits, plus, she keeps me from seeing how great they look on me. Just when I thought she couldn’t get any meaner, she proved me wrong. She came along when I went to get my picture taken for my driver’s license, and just as the camera shutter clicked, she jumped in front of me I hope she never finds out where you live! Author Unknown

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

A strange old lady has moved into my house

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Qualified (9) 6. A highly-emotional play (5) 9. Recuperate (7) 10. Search haphazardly (7) 11. Enjoy to excess (7) 12. Unfortunate (7) 13. A watch or clock (9) 15. Elan (5) 16. Andean animal (5) 19. Complex (9) 22. A pasta dish (7) 23. Armory (7) 25. Place of complete bliss (7) 26. A timid man (7) 27. Foe (5) 28. Mitigate (9)

down 1. Welsh dog (5) 2. Paving material (7) 3. Enclose (7) 4. Bird’s nest (5)

solution 13/5/22

5. 6. 7. 8. 13. 14. 17. 18. 20. 21. 23. 24.

Characterized by unrest (9) A small natural hollow in the cheek (7) Lawlessness (7) Welding gas (9) Permissiveness (9) Get rid of (9) Unfavorable (7) Abnormality (7) A hormone lacking in diabetics (7) Inability to remember (7) Acknowledge (5) Oversight (5)

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Filming underway on Heath Davis’ CHRISTMESS

roduction on Penrith’s Heath Davis’ latest feature film CHRISTMESS is underway in Western Sydney. Written and directed by Davis (Book Week, Broke, Locusts), the film stars Steve Le Marquand (Last Train to Freo), Darren Gilshenan (No Activity) and musician and vocalist Hannah Joy of alternative indie rock band Middle Kids, in her feature film debut. Fresh out of rehab, a desperate, once famous actor - Chris Flint (Steve Le Marquand) - takes a job as a Santa Claus in a suburban strip mall where he unexpectedly encounters his long-estranged daughter (Nicole Pastor) and infant grandson. With the love and support of his sponsor, Nick (Darren Gilshenan), and a young, sharp tongued, gay musician in recovery named Joy (Hannah Joy), Chris sets about staying sober in order to win his daughter’s forgiveness for Christmas. CHRISTMESS is the fourth feature that brings together long-time friends Steve Le Marquand and Heath Davis, with Le Marquand starring in Davis’ previous three films Book Week, Broke and Locusts. Hannah Joy’s highly-anticipated role as ‘Joy’ will see her contribute original music to the film, as well as Christmas covers.

(L-R) Darren Gilshenan, Heath Davis, Hannah Joy and Steve Le Marquand

Davis comments “I love Christmas movies, but I’ve never really seen a Christmas movie that depicts the reality of what the holiday season is for many of us - crippling stress, anxiety, malaise and economic struggle, all too often underpinned by alcohol abuse. At its core, CHRISTMESS is a celebration of the human spirit, the kindness of strangers and the healing power of forgiveness. It feels amazing to finally be in

production with an incredible team and I can’t wait to share the film with audiences.” Producer Daniel Fenech adds “Our unconventional Christmas movie has heart, and with Heath and I both having spent a large portion of our upbringing in Greater Western Sydney, it feels right to be shooting the film here. We have a strong local contingent of cast and crew from western Sydney and there’s a lot of

love and community support behind the project.” CHRISTMESS is written and directed by Heath Davis, and produced by Daniel Fenech, Cindy Pritchard and Matthew McCracken. The shoot is taking place over three weeks in Campbelltown, with the cast and crew adhering to COVID-safe filming practices. CHRISTMESS has been financed through crowd funding and the generous support of partners.

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NEPEAN HISTORY

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

enrith Selective High School the area surrounding the current RAAF Base was first opened in the 1930s as an also has a long history of being owned by a intermediate school on the land next politician and shipping magnate. In 1930 the to its current location (now Penrith Public art deco designed “Lapstone Hill Hotel” was School). The school’s location at that time was established and offered great views of the occupied by a mansion known as The Towers. Sydney basin area overlooking Penrith and During the 1940s, the mansion and the land St Marys. With the outbreak of World War was sold to the Department of Education who Two the hotel was offered to the Government demolished the mansion and built Penrith High in 1950 and the Eastern Area Command, School, officially established in 1950. Two of originally in the Sydney suburb of Edgecliff, the original foundations of the mansion have moved to Glenbrook due to the generous radio said to be preserved and remain in the school coverage of the Sydney basin and the hotel grounds. A former student of the school was was originally used for Air Command until Grigor Weston Taylor, born in Penrith in 1943. 1980 when various alterations were added  Photo of the tunnel courtesy of Pauline Conolley’s website After finishing school, he became an English with the Airmen’s, Sergeant’s quarters and the teacher at Penrith and then at Marist Brothers at Westmead, later becoming headquarters of the Air Command building, close to the front gate. With an actor in the early 70’s when he starred in 99 episodes of Matlock Police further works in 1994 the hotel, keeping the art deco style, was converted as Senior Detective Alan Curtis. He portrayed Steve Hamilton an English into the officer’s mess. Following a decision to relocate the Squadron, high school teacher in Silent Number and Greg Walker in Glenview a former workshop of RAAF Base Glenbrook opposite the front gate High. He took many other parts in Australian television series such as was refurbished to accommodate the cadets. With air conditioning, A Country Practice, Homicide, Special Squad, City West, The Flying classrooms and stores created to service the needs of about 75 cadets and Doctors, Butterfly Island, Dearest Enemy and Mission Impossible (1988) staff. The headquarters of Air Command remains a vital part of the Royal and feature films including High Rolling (1977), Mad Max 2 (1981), and Australian Air Force and with the Final Parade held at the base since 2002 Afraid to Dance (1989). In 1952, Penrith High School established the 323 it allowed for Polair to land at the helicopter landing pad for a Careers Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force with 30 cadets. After Penrith Day event and in 2016 the Freedom of the City challenge was conducted High the Squadron moved in close proximity to locations with historic outside the front of the officer’s mess where the Squadron was officially relevance to the RAAF. Later in 1971 the unit moved to the former RAAF granted Freedom of the City of Blue Mountains by Mayor Councillor property at 121 Dunheved Circuit in St Marys that was a former casualty Mark Greenhill OAM, citing various community service work and the station attached to the munitions factory and referred to as “the morgue”. commendation for their efforts during the 2013 Winmalee bush fires. The The Squadron remained there until early 2001 when the unit moved to a Glenbrook Tunnel - The original tunnel was built in 1891 and originally temporary facility at the Defence Establishment at Orchard Hills. Finally built to compliment the Lapstone Zig Zag railway that existed east of in late 2001 the unit moved to its location at the RAAF Base at Glenbrook the unit’s position. Following the construction of the tunnel, difficulties and is part of the City of the Blue Mountains. Today the Dunheved area were encountered. The loss of labourer Thomas Lawless was killed in north of St Marys is an industrial and commercial estate with expanding January 1892 during a blasting operation when a gang of four men were suburbs and over a century of growth, and an ever-changing appearance. working at their usual places and had finished drilling the hole, when But before this it was timbered and later cut down and made into grazing Thomas whose duty it was to arrange the charge began ramming it with land for sheep and other animals. In 1941 the area was taken by the a tamping bar into the cavity when an explosion occurred and the four Government to build the large Munitions factory with close access to the men in the immediate vicinity were thrown with great force to the ground. railway, the Great Western Highway and water and was seen as being a The inquest found that more drills should have been supplied and the jury desirable location that gave it some security from attack. The large and found that after some deliberation returned the verdict that the death of sprawling munitions factory was built as a part of a state-wide network Thomas was caused by using tools in bad condition and too small, and in of factories spanning as far as Tamworth, Wagga Wagga and Broken Hill. forcing the powder in the hole it caused the powder to explode but they In 1943 additional infrastructure was built to produce phosphorus bombs could not find any blame. Thomas’ coffin, decorated with flowers was for the RAAF and a mostly female work force worked a 6-day week. held on the shoulders of his gang members to Penrith railway station with (Penrith Research Library has a glass enclosure with a replica of the a large body of his fellow workmen following in procession. His body women’s uniform worn at that time, sewn by the Encore Historical Sewing went by train to the Necropolis at Rookwood. In 1939 the tunnel was Group at St Marys). After the war as the operations at Dunheved started resumed for Defence during the outbreak of World War 2. In 1942 after to wind down, some of the buildings were used, a migrant hostel was finding out that the Japanese used Chemical Weapons, a highly secretive established and the factory space leased to private owners. Some of the weapons store was established in the tunnel. In 1946 following the end of original buildings of the factory still stand to this day. In the 1950’s with the war the weapons were disposed of in various ways but the secretive the outbreak of the Korean war, and the beginning of the Cold War the work carried out at the Tunnel, was classified long after. former Munitions works in Dunheved were not reused due to the influx Sources: NSW of Environment and Heritage – Wianamatta Conservation Plan, of private enterprise, and new premises were established along with a Lost Sydney – St Marys Munitions Factory website, NSW Office of Environment large testing area that reached west to the Northern Road. In Glenbrook and Heritage – Glenbrook Tunnel & Mustard Gas, Wikipedia.

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Our District’s History

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Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

How will the Labor government affect property prices? With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

he short answer is this change in government changes nothing. But let’s have a look

into it anyway. When I started thinking about this topic it instantly reminded me of a tweet I stumbled across by Australian journalist John Pilger a couple of weeks ago. “Britain, the US, Australia share a phenomenon: each has a political opposition in name only. Every few years a game is played when major parties with the same (more or less) economic, social and warmaking policies convince voters they are different. This is known as ‘democracy’.” This was a remarkably insightful observation. I can’t recall any change of government that had a meaningful impact on the lives of middleclass Australians – which is probably why Aussies are generally apathetic when it comes to politics. The issue with having a two-party political system is that both sides are trying to catch the swinging voter who is fence-sitting. This means that over the long run the policies tend towards the middle anyway. There isn’t any evidence that a change in leadership has affected the property market in any way other than the brief abolition of negative gearing in 1985 by the Hawke government.

There aren’t any significant macro policy differences which means that there are no impacts on equity markets, interest rates, the strength of the AUD, and by default the property market. The ALP’s loss in 2019 was partially blamed on the “radical tax and spending” agenda so this time they have opted for a “small target” approach which is more in line with the coalition’s policy. The main policy change announced during the election campaign was the HELP TO BUY SCHEME. • This scheme is where the government contributes and takes up to 40 percent equity for a new property or 30 percent equity in an existing property. • Limit of 10,000 home buyers per year (that’s around 1.7 percent of the addressable market only). • To qualify, anyone who doesn’t currently own a property is eligible as long as you earn under $90,000 p/a for a single applicant or $120,000 p/a for joint applicants. • There are price caps of $950,000 for the greater Sydney and regional areas and $600,000 for the rest of NSW. • Only need to save a 2 percent deposit. • No Lenders Mortgage Insurance costs are payable. • You can buy back all or part of the governments share at any time . • No rent is payable to the government for their share of the ownership. • There are no dates when this scheme will

SELECT

commence at this stage. Other policy changes that will have an effect on property are• Support for the Coalition’s 50,000 low deposit purchase scheme (allowing first homeowners to purchase with a 5 percent deposit and no LMI) • Establishment of the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council to help boost housing supply. • Raise the minimum wage by 5.1 percent (only covers those on the minimum wage) • No new tax hikes other than measures to tax multinationals more. Like the previous government, the housing policy is weighted more heavily on demand-side policies which will result in higher-than-normal home prices. While this is good for investors it is the wrong policy choice if they really want to address the housing affordability issue. This again points to the fact that housing affordability is an issue that no government really wants to solve. Even though there will certainly be a lot of analysis of the election results and the economic, social, and environmental implications, this change in government has no impact on our overall investment thesis. Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp. com.au if you want to discuss your situation or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

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SPORT By Noel Rowsell

ual Paralympian John Maclean (Penrith Canoe Club) has been named in the Australian Paracanoe team, ahead of the 2022 international season and will be racing in the 2022 ICF Paracanoe World Cup in Poznan, Poland, from 26th-29th May) . John has previously represented Australia at both Olympic and Paralympic games, is the winner of a Silver medal in Rowing from Beijing in 2008 and has competed in over seven different sporting disciplines, including triathlon, long-distance swimming, rowing, paddling, wheelchair racing, hand-cycling and basketball. John is a long-time paddler and has been given a T12 classification for the sport, allowing him to compete in Para-canoe. “I had my accident back in 1988 when I was training for a triathlon and hit by a truck. I did sport before my accident, and afterwards my best buddy got me into paddling,” said John. “The first thing we did was get a TK2, and he said that we were going to do the Hawkesbury Classic, which is 111km, and that’s how I started off with paddling. “And now, all these years later, with Para-canoe in the Paralympics, I wondered how I would go against the good guys - so I’m about to find that out. “There is something that I love about being on the water, and being free. There’s no wheelchairs, there’s no crutches, it’s just you and the boat. “I’m loving being back in a kayak, and I’m loving the opportunity to see if I can improve,” said Maclean. The opportunity to represent Australia is not lost on Maclean who is relishing the opportunity to wear the green and gold again. “I set myself a challenge for this year, and the challenge was let’s try, and let’s see what trying looks like, and I thought wouldn’t it be amazing to have the opportunity to represent my country again. “That was the goal to work towards, and the good news is that it appears that’s what’s unfolding. “I’ll find out in Poznan (2022 ICF Paracanoe World Cup, Poznan, Poland, 26th-29th May) and if I’m lucky enough to race at the Para-canoe World Championships (Halifax, Canada 3rd-7th August), of where I currently sit. John is competing in Poznan in the K1 200m and the Outrigger Va-a “I’m looking forward to continuing to improve and if that does open up the door to be a part of the Paralympics again, then that would be a tremendous

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

Maclean finds new challenge in paddling

John Maclean training in the K1 (above) and the Va’a (below). Photos supplied by Paddle Australia / JGR Images

honour but I think right now I’m focusing on my first stroke before I think about my second. “This is my fifth time to represent the country, but it’s also a new sport. I’m a student, I’m learning as I go. There’s always a line in the sand, and I guess you could say Usain Bolt got to his line, but many people don’t. I’m just trying to get to my line, and to see if I can continue to improve. And if I can, then that’s another step in the right direction.” Paddle Australia National Paracanoe Coach, Shaun Caven, said it was great to welcome John to the program. “To have someone of John’s motivation and commitment as part of our Paracanoe squad, with his experience competing at the highest level of sport, is invaluable and he will be a great addition, as he is an inspiration to all Australians. “Sport has always played such a big role in John’s life, keeping very active and he’s always had a love of paddling. “I’m looking forward to working with John and welcoming him to our Australian team.” In 2000, John received a Medal of the Order of Australia (AM) ‘for service to sport as a triathlete and swimmer, to the promotion of sport for people

with disabilities, and the encouragement of junior wheelchair athletes’. That year, he also received an Australian Sports Medal and carried both the Olympic and Paralympic torches for the 2000 Sydney Games. In 2002, John became the first non-US citizen and the first paraplegic to be inducted into the Ironman Hall of Fame. John has previously featured in the Nepean News as a ‘Legend of the Nepean’ and since that article has worked with NeuroPhysics therapist Ken Ware, realising a dream to walk again. With the assistance of leg braces, John competed in the Nepean Triathlon in 2014 and the final lap of the run leg saw him joined by his many supporters, along with Australian cricketers Steve Waugh and Glenn McGrath, former Wallaby Captain Phil Kearns and Surf Ironman Champion Ky Hurst. John’s efforts raised $200,000 towards helping young Australian’s in wheelchairs. In addition to being an outstanding para-athlete and an in-demand Public Speaker, John has written two memoirs, being ‘Sucking the Marrow out of Life: The John Maclean Story’ with Paul Connolly (2005) and ‘Full Circle: One Life, Many Lessons’ with Lynne Cossare (2009).

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Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

SPORT

Junior rider in the thick of the action By Noel Rowsell

2-year old motorcycle racer William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) has been kept busy through the past 4 weeks, racing in Round 3 of the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup (OJC) at Wakefield Park on April 22-24, then racing in the Ohvale FIM MiniGP Australia Series at Sydney Premier Karting Park (Eastern Creek) on May 14-15. The OJC even was held alongside the Australian Superbike Championship and would be a tought weekend, with William only recovering from Covid three weeks earlier. Dry yet cold weather greeted the riders on the Friday, with William finishing in 13th position following the day’s practic sessions. Saturday morning’s Qualifying session put William into 12th spot on the grid and he would ultimately finish the race in 13th spot. Race 2 on Sunday saw William get a great start, moving up to 11th position by lap 3 and eventually finishing 12th. Race 3 unfortunately wasn’t his best start and he would finish in 13th spot for the race and also 13th overall for the weekend. Round 2 of the Ohvale FIM MiniGP Australia Series was challenging, with a damp track and some minor issues with the bike resulting in an 11th place classification for the two

William Hunt in action at Wakefield Park (above) and Eastern Creek. Photos from Wakefield Park and head shot both supplied. Photo from Eastern Creek by Noel Rowsell

16-lap races on Sunday. William got a good start in Race 1, working his way up to 7th place before the race was red-flagged for an incident on Lap 6. The calculations for the re-start pushed William back to 9th for the resumption of the race. William made another great start in Part 2 of the race and moved into 6th spot, clocking a significantly faster time than in qualifying. William started Race 2 in 11th spot on the grid and after another great start, moved up to 6th before yet another red flag on Lap 5. He was classified

in 8th for the restart but a poor start saw him drop to the rear of the field. William fought back strongly in the wet and slippery conditions, moving up to 6th by lap 7 before a big ‘high side’ almost ended his race. He recovered to finish 8th in that race and 6th overall on the weekend. William would like to thank all the people who have partnered with him especially the new local businesses in Penrith, including Platinum EMS Studio, Platinum Security Systems, Sydney City Motorcycles, Yamaha Motor Australia, Knight Designs and Suspension By Frank Pons.

Paddling royalty in Penrith for clinics By Noel Rowsell

ustralia’s most successful paddler Clint Robinson OAM has won Olympic medals of every colour, along with a World Championship title, representing Australia at 5 Olympic Games. He won 36 Australian Championship medals, starring on still water and also becoming a record-breaker in the surf. Clint was honoured with the captaincy of many Australian surf lifesaving teams, which achieved great success at World Championships, Tri-Nations Series and the Goodwill Games. Clint was in Penrith on the weekend to run clinics for members of Penrith Valley Canoeing, with topics including paddling technique and other tips, starting with everyone on the water and filming everyone individually. Clint followed up in the classroom, going through everyone’s technique and advising how they can each improve their skills.

Members of Penrith Valley Canoeing with Australian paddling legend Clint Robinson. Photo supplied by PVC.

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

ullaburra sailor Kathy Veel is currently at the helm of locally-owned racing yacht ‘It Happens’ in the 2022 Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) Women’s Winter Series. The three dates for the Series are April 24, June 12 and July 17, with those three races interspersed between the ten races of the 2022 CYCA Winter Series. In addition to being at the helm for ‘It Happens’ in the Women’s Winter Series and crewing on the boat in the CYCA Winter Series (on Sundays), Kathy also crews on other boats in the ‘Combined Clubs Winter Series’, which is run on Saturdays also on Sydney Harbour. Kathy’s biggest assignment at the end of this year will be sailing in the 2022 Sydney2Hobart (S2H) Yacht Race two-handed, partnering with another helms-woman from ‘It Happens’, Bridget Canham, on board Kathy’s own boat, ‘Currawong’. Currawong was built in 1973 and is a Currawong 30, designed by Australian Prof. Peter Joubert. A sister ship, Zeus II, won the S2H in 1981, the smallest yacht ever to do so, and also came 2nd in 2002. Kathy purchased ‘Currawong’ online (due to Covid restrictions) from Melbourne in 2021, then sailed it up to Sydney in February this year. A Victorian by birth, Kathy grew up in Beecroft, before moving to Bullaburra in 1992. She began sailing at 18 and has been to Hobart twice in S2H races, the first in 1989 as part of an all-woman crew on board ‘Belles Long Ranger’ and then in 1992, with an all-woman crew on ‘Telecom Mobile Net’, a Farr 40. She also had plans to race in 2019 but was injured prior to the race.

Sailing with Making Waves Foundation (Kathy & Aidan)

Bridget Canham and Kathy Veel - Hobart Bound

The racing yacht ‘Currawong’

Kathy’s first 2 boats were small wooden yachts (1979-91) and it was during this period of time, she developed her skills in seamanship and navigation, ultimately racing on larger boats. Her third boat was called ‘Quintet’ and was based at Kettering Yacht Club in Tasmania. Kathy would become a frequent flyer, spending every summer on the island for the ensuing 10 years. Kathy is a former High School Art teacher (40 years) and after retiring in 2014, became a volunteer skipper with the ‘Making Waves Foundation’ (MWF). In 2021, she won the ‘Blue Mountains Volunteer of the Year’ award for her contribution to the MWF. Initially attracted to the MWF by a small advertisement in ‘Afloat Magazine’ in 2014, for an Orientation Day, Kathy went along and was immediately recognised for her sailing knowledge and skills and invited to join the MWF sailing family. Since then, Kathy has skippered MWF programmes in Hobart, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Southport, Kebble Bay and Mackay, and the delivery passages in between, managing the yacht, the crew and programs for the disabled. This year, Kathy will also be competing with MWF in Hamilton Island Race Week. A part-time artist (mostly seascapes), Kathy’s art has also come ahead in leaps and bounds since retirement, with the added hours she is able to devote to canvas giving her the opportunity to further develop her craft. Kathy has featured in two exhibits in the Blue Mountains. Making Waves Foundation (MWF) formerly ‘Sailors with disABILITIES (SWD)’ is an Australian registered not-for-profit organisation that, through sailing, becomes a catalyst for change in people’s lives. We exist to offer life-changing opportunities to children, youth and adults with disabilities and those

at a disadvantage to drive a more optimistic outlook for personal growth and improved life outcomes. We use sailing as a tool to build confidence, selfesteem and new relationships. Through sailing, people start to forget about what they can’t do and focus on what they can. We provide free sailing and training programs for people with a disability, disadvantaged children and adults, and their carers. Since its inception in 1994, MWF has taken more than 64,000 disabled and disadvantaged people sailing and continues to build on this with more than 2,500 individuals benefiting from its programs every year. • In the 1994 Sydney to Southport yacht race, MWF was the first 100%-disabled crew in the world to compete in an ocean race. • Since 1994, MWF has competed in 20 Sydney to Hobart yacht races. • In 2003, MWF set and still retains, the world record for the fastest non-stop, unassisted circumnavigation of Australia. • MWF set the world record for the fastest passage Sydney – Lord Howe – Balls Pyramid – Sydney in 2015.

A painting by Kathy

Saturated courses disrupt Master Pennant

aturated golf courses have again disrupted the Golf NSW Master Pennant competition, with two western Sydney games abandoned in Round 2 due to unplayable courses. Both games (Penrith GC vs Liverpool GC and Wallacia CC vs Richmond GC) were declared as 4-4 draws. There was however still plenty of action for the fans, with Springwood CC again recording a huge win over Brighton Lakes 7.5-.05, Dunheved GC claiming a strong 6-2 win over Lynwood CC, Leonay GC drawing 4-4 away to Warringah, Glenmore Heritage Valley GC suffered a heavy 7-1 loss to Macquarie Links GC, Stonecutters Ridge GC fell 6.5-1.5 to St Michaels and Twin Creeks CGC fell 5.5-2.5 to Asquith. Next week’s home games are: Penrith vs Twin Creeks, Dunheved vs Castle Hill, Glenmore vs Strathfield, whilst Richmond is away to Woolooware, Wallacia is away to Campbelltown, Springwood is away to Antill Park, Stonecutters is away to Mona Vale and Leonay is away to Bexley.

John Lansley and Lindsay Gregory (Twin Creeks GC) in action during Round 2 of the 2022 Golf NSW Master Pennant competition - photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

A Blue Mountains Sailor

Celebrity ROUND 12

ROUND 13

MEL PAN MAN NQC

BRI GCT

NZW NEW

SOU WES

CRO SYD

BUL STG

CAN PAR

GCT NQC

pan bul

MAN NZW

CAN SYD

May 26 7.50pm

May 27 7.55pm

May 28 3.00pm

May 28 5.30pm

May 28 7.35pm

May 29 2.00pm

May 29 4.05pm

June 2 7.50pm

June 3 7.55pm

June 4 7.35pm

June 5 4.05pm

May 27 6.00pm

SCORE

Jeff Daniel Watson Galea--Club Adenbrook President, Homes St Marys - 9622 Band 4091 Club - 9623 1211

112 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

116 John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538

116 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

118 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

120 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

108 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400

114 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

104 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211

112 Greg YandaBenard - Sports Journalist, Nepean News Councillor Bratusa

118

TIPSTERS ROUND 12

ROUND 13

MEL PAN MAN NQC

BRI GCT

NZW NEW

SOU WES

CRO SYD

BUL STG

CAN PAR

GCT NQC

pan bul

MAN NZW

CAN SYD

May 26 7.50pm

May 27 7.55pm

May 28 3.00pm

May 28 5.30pm

May 28 7.35pm

May 29 2.00pm

May 29 4.05pm

June 2 7.50pm

June 3 7.55pm

June 4 7.35pm

June 5 4.05pm

May 27 6.00pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ

116 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

114 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

108 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

114 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

112 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

110 Brock Shepperd - Mounties Rugby League Club - Ron Massey Cup Head Coach, Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

122 Andrew Keen - Penrith Air Supply - 4731 3033

118 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

112 Terry ‘Mad Dog’ Corbett - St Clair Comets

112

Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Coach’s Corner B

Building for long term success

ig things start small. A lesson I learnt the hard way during my initial years cutting my teeth as an aspiring coach. Within every successful business, family and sporting organisation the need to effectively manage the small details often determines the outcome. This accumulation allows every member to perform their specific role without distraction or confusion which leads to the bigger elements taking care of themselves. I wanted to know the coaching buzz words, drills and games. To have this knowledge was to feel as though you somehow had the inside word and a gateway to success. But the reality is the buzz words, drills and games constantly change depending on what the successful clubs from the previous season utilised to gain their success. And the cycle which develops is for the other organisations to go away, study and break down these successful elements and do their best to copy them in order to gain their own success. While in this mindset organisations overlook the small elements while also not taking into consideration the consistent evolution of how the game is played. It is consistently changing however the core small elements rarely change. What are the small elements? The two biggest

areas in my experience along with my constant research into best practice are the following: 1. The ability to effectively execute fundamental skills at a high level consistently while under pressure and fatigue. 2. The players clearly understanding what is expected and effectively contributing to the team on a consistent basis. Craig Bellamy is the proven master of these two elements. It would be disrespectful and narrow minded of me to suggest this the key to his success, because it is only the foundation. From a holistic perspective it is only scratching the surface on what Bellamy demands of the Melbourne Storm players and the staff within the organisation in order to achieve the consistent success they have been able to achieve over the past two decades. When you use the Sydney Roosters as a case study they have achieved just as much success as the Melbourne Storm over the past twenty years. Their method in achieving it has been starkly different. They have had a handful of coaches, roll over in their playing roster and a lack of junior players pushing through their lower grades. Trent Robinson is a leader in terms of tactics, systems and also the ability to effectively use his relationships with

Brock Shepperd Mounties Rugby League Club - NSW Cup Head Coach Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

players and coaching staff to bring out the best in his team on a consistent basis. And entering the conversation over the last two seasons, our hometown Penrith Panthers who have built a roster through development and excellent pathway construction. This has provided a consistent feed of quality junior players into the NRL squad across the last decade. This has set the club up for long term success providing that these systems are maintained and are improved each season. The Panthers have some very good pathway and development coaches who build the younger players to push into the NRL squad. And the NRL coaching staff are doing a great job extending these players into competent NRL players, but also in a lot of cases representative level players. Three very successful organisations and three totally different paths to achieve this success. The aligning areas revolve around the simple and small elements. Core skills, knowledge of the team’s game model and how as a player they execute their role, discipline, conditioning, a passion for the organisation, positive relationships with those within the organisation and leadership. Small aspects which add up and lead to big outcomes.

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Theres gunna be a showdown!

efore this current NRL season commenced all of the footy journos and commentators were asked to predict their Premiers, Top 8, and Wooden Spooners (who will finish last). The majority of us ‘so-called’ experts forecast that the North Queensland Cowboys would run stone motherless! Well, didn’t we get that one wrong. Not only will they not run last but the Cowboys have a realistic chance of glory this year, thanks to the off-season metamorphous they undertook. Todd Payten, their head coach, explained a few weeks back that part of their transformation has been to get his charges out of their comfort zone up in the far North of our country. Spontaneous training sessions were called during an arduous pre-season regime that involved constant scaling of Castle Hill, a granite monolith that stands proud overlooking Townsville. Not only were the Cowboys expected to run up this beast of a hill, they were all given certain times to do it in. If one single player didn’t make the acquired time then they all had to do it again until the entire squad were on the same page with their efforts. This coupled with defensive drill after defensive drill has seen the once fragile defensive line of the Cowboys now become one of the comp’s best with only the Panthers letting in less points this year ( Penrith 128, Cowboys 131). Defence is all about attitude. Everyone can run the footy and pass and sidestep, the hardest part of the game is the tackling component. Get that right and you’re on your way to become a competition heavyweight, aka the Cowboys. This Friday night our very own Mountain Men take on the North Queensland Castle Hill ‘mountain men’ in what shapes as the game of the year thus far. Who’d a thunk? To see first-hand how meteoric the Cowboy’s rise has been when scheduling the draw this season, before a ball had been kicked in anger, Ch9 didn’t think it deserved the prime time spot of 8pm on a Friday hence giving it to Fox as well as radio broadcasters including the station I work for Triple M.

FINAL DRAW SUNDAY 29 MAY

Hindsight is a wonderful thing because like Ch9 NOBODY would have thought that the Panthers v Cowboys round 12 fixture would have been this weekend’s most enthralling contest. But indeed it is! Coming off 6 straight victories, Todd Payten’s charges have been a breath of fresh air unearthing players like Nanai, Taulagi, Luki and Cotter. Their counterparts this Friday, the reigning premiers Penrith, have unveiled their own up and coming stars in Taylan May and Izack Tago to roam amongst their plethora of origin stars in what’s fast becoming something even more formidable than super! Last year’s champions up against the new kids on the block this Friday 6pm at Bluebet stadium promises to be a game not to miss. The irresistible force up against the immovable object, 1st up against 2nd, how bloody good! BRING IT ON! See you at the game….

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31 Nepean News 27 May 2022 Issue 330

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