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Back To School

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

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COVID-smart measures for schools in term 1 A message from the NSW Government

eing together in a classroom is the most effective way for students to learn and grow. Since COVID-19 remains a relatively mild illness for most children, the NSW Government is committed to return to school safely in 2022 and will support this through the following measures: Watch for symptoms If your child is unwell – even with mild symptoms – you must keep them home and get them tested. If children have any symptoms, they should take a PCR (nose and throat swab) test or rapid antigen test (RAT). If symptoms continue your child should stay home and take another RAT or PCR test in 24 hours. If that test is also negative, your child may return to school if another diagnosis is confirmed such as hay fever. • Read more about when to get tested for COVID-19 and the changes to testing. • Understand more about RATs and at-home testing. Vaccinations All staff on school sites must be fully vaccinated. The NSW Government strongly encourage all students and their families to get vaccinated. Children aged 5 to 11 can now get vaccinated. Parents are encouraged to book their child in for a vaccination at the first available opportunity. Once eligible, all adults are encouraged to get booster shots. Book a vaccination or booster using the Australian Government’s Vaccine Clinic Finderlaunch. Read more about vaccination for children aged 5 to 11. Understand the vaccination rules for workers. Testing Before the start of term 1 All staff and students are asked to take a rapid antigen test and get a negative result before attending school. Rapid antigen tests will be provided to all staff and students through their schools. Schools will inform parents on how these kits can be collected. At the commencement of term 1 For the first 4 weeks, students and staff should take a rapid antigen test twice a week before attending school. Test kits will continue to be supplied by schools.

Students who are household close contacts must isolate at home for 7 days. COVID-19 positive cases If your child has no symptoms and there is a positive case in their class, year or other grouping, they can continue to attend school in line with NSW Health advice. Staff and students who get a positive rapid antigen test must register it through Service NSW as soon as possible. Staff and students who receive a positive rapid antigen test must tell their school as soon as possible and follow NSW Health advice. Schools will regularly communicate to parents about the presence and impact of COVID-19 in their community. Parents should expect to be provided with any impacted year groups or cohorts. Ventilation Fresh air is the most effective form of ventilation to minimise the risk of transmission. All learning spaces in public schools have been checked to ensure appropriate levels of ventilation and air purifiers have been provided where needed. Using outdoor spaces will continue to be encouraged Masks All primary and secondary school staff will be required to wear masks indoors. No vented masks or cloth masks should be worn. If required, surgical masks will be available at schools. Secondary school students are required to wear masks. Primary school students are strongly recommended to wear well-fitted masks indoors. Activities COVID-19 will be considered in all risk assessments. Guidance will be provided to schools on applying appropriate safeguards across a range of activities.

Parents will be made aware of the risk of exposure and will need to give their permission for participation in extra-curricular, out of school hours or off-site activities. Student cohorting Schools will continue to use cohort arrangements and consider staggered drop-off and pick ups, break times, playground and canteen access. Depending on the school, cohort size and timetables, cohorts may be based on classes, years or stages. Visitors Visitors on school sites should be kept to a minimum to support essential school activities or student needs. Visitors will be required to wear a mask indoors and will be encouraged to wear a mask outdoors if they cannot maintain physical distancing. Schools are advised to allow a maximum of 2 parents or carers per student on to school grounds for kindergarten orientation or year 7 transition. Keeping schools open Parents are asked to respect the rules at their child’s school to help keep the community safe. Schools will do everything they can to maintain continuity of face-to-face learning including the use of more casual staff. Schools will need to make localised staffing decisions to ensure appropriate supervision can be maintained. Schools will not be able to guarantee particular staff for any cohort and students may not have their regular teacher for a class. Learning from home The NSW Government will continue to monitor the situation and where face-to-face learning is not possible, learning from home options will be supported for short periods. School or childcare centre closure Some schools may need to close occasionally to deal with COVID-19 outbreaks, deep cleaning or other emergencies like floods or fires. The NSW School Updates app sends parents and carers notifications about school closures. Contact childcare centres, preschools, kindergartens and other early childhood care settings directly for the latest updates.

COVID-19 settings remain in place The NSW Government will extend current restrictions for another month, with a focus on a safe return to school and restarting non-elective surgery as soon as possible. Current settings will continue until Sunday, 28 February 2022, including: • Hospitality venues, including pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes, and nightclubs must follow the one person per two square metre rule indoors; • Masks are required in all indoor settings (except residences). Masks are strongly encouraged where you cannot maintain a safe distance from others; • QR code check-ins are compulsory at certain premises, including hospitality venues and retail shops; • Singing and dancing is not permitted in hospitality venues,

entertainment facilities, nightclubs, indoor music festivals and indoor major recreation facilities (except for weddings, performers, instructors and students). Premier Dominic Perrottet said rolling over these measures would continue to protect the community and our health system. “We have always said we will respond to what is in front of us and tailor our approach as required and that is exactly what we are doing,” Mr Perrottet said. “We are transitioning to living with COVID and we will need to continually update our approach to ensure we are keeping people safe and protecting our health system. “It is vital people continue to come forward and get their booster shots to

help keep themselves, their family and the community safe.” As additional measures, people are encouraged to continue to work from home where possible and to reduce mingling when eating and drinking. Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said there is plenty of availability and supply of boosters in the NSW Health vaccination clinics so those eligible for their booster shot should book as soon as possible. “The gap between your second jab and your booster is now just three months, so don’t waste time – the sooner we all get our boosters the sooner we will overcome this Omicron wave,” Mr Hazzard said. “The NSW community has put in an extraordinary effort to get the first two doses of the COVID vaccine,

making us one of the most vaccinated populations worldwide. It’s now extremely important to back it in with your booster to lift your protection against the highly transmissible Omicron strain.” People aged 18 years and older can receive their booster dose at three months after receiving their second dose of any of the COVID-19 vaccines.

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By Penrith Council Bushcare team

ouncil’s Bushcare team is very excited to have spotted an echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) in September last year! The echidna was spotted exploring around the water’s edge looking for food in the bushland surrounding the wetland. As soon as it saw our Bushland team member who took this photo, it huddled into the rocks and waited for them to leave (as pictured). A burrow was spotted nearby, but the team is unsure if it belongs to this echidna.

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Spotted: Echidna at Blue Hills Wetland!

If you spot an echidna, consider taking a photo and uploading it to the free EchidnaCSI app! The app was designed to help with the collection of data about Australia’s echidnas and to help researchers learn more about one of Australia’s wildlife icons. You can find out more about the program at https:// fal.cn/3lD4t We’ve already uploaded this echidna to the app! If you spot an echidna in Penrith, we’d love for you to send your photos to bushcare@penrith.city so we can collect this valuable data and upload it to the EchidnaCSI app if you haven’t already done so.

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Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

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Nominate a local worthy of recognition

he Local Celebration Awards is the new Penrith City Council program to celebrate residents who dedicate their time to help others, and to making our City a better place to live. In 2021, Council announced the recipients of Council’s inaugural Local Celebration Awards: 2021 Citizen of the Year, Kristine Gauci for her extraordinary work with Our Community Cares, a not-for-profit organisation helping the aged and needy. 2021 Young Citizen of the Year, Daena Madon for her remarkable achievements at the age of just 17 and selflessly volunteering for good causes.

2021 Mayor’s Local Heroes, the dynamic duo of Cathy and Marzi DeSanti for their efforts to create community spirit in Thornton and 85-year-old Gloria Lenon for her tireless work with Nepean Legacy and the Nepean War Widows’ Guild. 2021 Community Service Award winners Robert Rayner, Michael Allen and Veronica Nou for their extensive contributions to our local community. If you know somebody should be nominated for the 2022 Local Celebration Awards, we want to hear from you! Find out more about the awards, including how to nominate, at penrith.city/local-celebration-awards

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iberal candidate for Macquarie Sarah Richards is encouraging local independent cinemas to apply for grant funding under the second round of the Morrison Government’s $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund. Last week, Ms Richards welcomed the Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, to Glenbrook Cinema, to meet with owners Ben and Fiona. Glenbrook Cinema received funding under the first round of the SCREEN Fund. Ms Richards said under the first round of the SCREEN Fund, more than $10million was allocated to 198 independent cinemas around the country, which included local operators. “Last year, I was very pleased that funding flowed to our local independent cinemas, which made a real financial difference to those operators,” Ms Richards said. “The Morrison Government listened to the independent cinema sector and delivered the required support to protect jobs and drive our economic recovery.

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith “Trading conditions remain difficult, so the federal government is again providing sensible economic management by opening a second round of funding. “With Minister Fletcher in the Blue Mountains last week, I directly raised the need for funding to flow again to our local cinemas. “Local cinemas are iconic and treasured institutions and I will be advocating hard on their behalf to help secure this funding.” To help streamline the application process via Screen Australia, eligibility requirements for the second round of SCREEN funding will be the same as the first round, with the exception of the revenue period being reported on. Applications under the second round close 5pm Friday 29 April 2022.

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Support for independent cinemas

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local news Funding commitment to boost flood resilience in Western Sydney

he Australian and New South Wales governments have announced $33 million in funding for a program to identify more than 100 infrastructure improvements that will boost the resilience of the flood evacuation network throughout the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley. The project, which is being jointly funded on a 50:50 basis, will provide a plan of works to improve flood evacuation in the region such as road widening, new culvert and bridge structures, road raising, pinch point upgrades and drainage improvements. Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said this was a vital investment, with 140,000 people currently living or working in the valley. “The Morrison Government is committed to the safety and wellbeing of residents across the HawkesburyNepean Valley, which has the highest flood risk in NSW,” Minister Fletcher said. “This jointly funded planning study is an important step towards developing a program of works that will help improve the resilience of the local road network and support an efficient evacuation in the event of flooding.” NSW Minister for Metropolitan Roads, the Hon. Natalie Ward MLC said that, following the release of the NSW Government’s Resilient Valley, Resilient Communities: Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley Flood Risk Management Strategy in 2017, Transport for NSW had identified a need for road infrastructure improvements across four Western Sydney Local Government Areas. “These improvements include road widening, new culvert and bridge structures, road raising, pinch point upgrades and drainage improvements,” Minister Ward said. “The NSW Government is working together with local councils and

Melissa McIntosh MP brought the Prime Minister Scott Morrison to see the aftermath of last year’s floods on the local community. Pictured here on Yarramundi Bridge.

communities to manage risk and build flood resilience in this key area of Western Sydney. “This will help ensure that both local issues and the broader strategy are considered to achieve best outcomes.” Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the infrastructure plan would establish a pipeline of critical projects that would help cement Western Sydney’s economic recovery. “This plan will make our communities safer at the same time as generating local jobs across a variety of sectors,” Senator Payne said. Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Tourism and Sport, Western Sydney and State Member for Penrith the Hon Stuart Ayres MP said: “The Hawkesbury Nepean Flood Strategy is a comprehensive plan to manage the risk posed by

floods, and road upgrades to make them more flood resilient and to help enable evacuations in the event of a serious flood are an important part of that plan.” Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh is advocating for this funding to be administered as quickly as possible. “During the March 2021 floods, Llandilo, Castlereagh, Londonderry, Agnes Banks were severely impacted by these damaging and dangerous floods,” Ms McIntosh said. “So many families suffered damage to their homes, their properties, livestock and many were left with damaged homes or lost possessions. Our community needs this critical infrastructure to lessen the impact of future floods. “I look forward to this rolling out as quickly as possible and to see the installation of drainage and road

upgrades to ensure our community is kept as safe as possible during floods.” Transport for NSW will work with local councils in the valley to deliver the improvements, which have been identified across state, local and regional roads. The majority of projects will be undertaken in Penrith Local Government Area, with others in the Hawkesbury, Blacktown and The Hills Local Government Area. For more detail about the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley Road Resilience Program, go to https:// roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov. au/projects/flood-resilience-program/ index.html. For more detail about the flood strategy, go to www.infrastructure. n s w. g o v. a u / e x p e r t - a d v i c e / hawkesbury-nepean-flood-riskmanagement-strategy/.

Fatal motorcycle crash – Eastern Creek A man has died following a crash between two motorcycles on Australia Day. Just before 3.30pm (Wednesday 26 January 2022), emergency services were called to a racetrack at Eastern Creek, after reports of a motorcycle crash. Police have been told two motorcyclists collided,

before crashing into a tyre wall. One rider – a 30-year-old man – was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene. The second motorcyclist – a 38-year-old man – sustained minor injuries and was taken to Westmead Hospital for treatment and mandatory testing.

Officers from Blacktown Police Area Command established a crime scene, which will be forensically examined, and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Woman dies following boat capsize – Penrith A woman has died after a boat capsized on the Nepean River in on Australia Day. About 12.40pm on Wednesday 26 January 2022, emergency services were called to the Nepean River near Bruce Neale Drive, after reports a boat with five people onboard had overturned. A multi-agency rescue operation commenced

involving officers from Nepean Police Area Command, PolAir, NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Ambulance paramedics. Two men and two teenagers were rescued from the water and taken to Nepean Hospital for observation and treatment of minor injuries. A woman, believed to be 33, was pulled from

the water unconscious and treated by paramedics; however, she died a short time later. Detectives have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and anyone who may have information is urged to contact Penrith Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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ore than 1,000 medical graduate interns have this week joined the ranks of the NSW Health system – a record number of new starters and the most of any state or territory in Australia. Premier Dominic Perrottet said that a record number of 1,073 interns are joining the NSW Health team this year, an increase of 32 positions compared with the previous year. “We owe a debt of gratitude to the intern class of 2022, many of whom have already worked either as Assistants in Medicine or student vaccinators as part of the COVID-19 workforce response,” Mr Perrottet said. “We have invested record amounts in our health system throughout the pandemic and these new interns will play a significant role in bolstering the ranks of our health workers as we continue to deal with the challenges of COVID-19.” Minister for Health Brad Hazzard extended a warm welcome to the new interns and thanked them for their readiness to join their dedicated fellow health workers during such a pivotal time in the State’s history. “Our selfless health heroes have worked tirelessly to keep the people of NSW safe and well throughout the enormous challenges of this onein-one-hundred year pandemic,” Mr

Hazzard said. “These new interns are starting their careers at a critical time in our battle against COVID-19 and will play a vital role in supporting existing health staff during our COVID-19 response.” Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said that of the 1,073 positions, 162 belong to the Rural Preferential Recruitment scheme – an increase of 12 positions compared with the previous year. “The innovative Rural Preferential Recruitment Scheme allows interns to undertake the majority of their training in our rural hospitals, encouraging Junior Medical Officers (JMOs) to continue working in rural and regional NSW once they complete their training,” Mrs Taylor said. “I am so pleased that the intern class of 2022 also includes 24 JMOs

recruited via the Aboriginal Medical Workforce Pathway.” Interns are medical graduates who have completed their medical degree and are required to complete a supervised year of practice in order to become independent practitioners. The new doctors who commenced orientation this week will be entering a training program with networked hospitals throughout the state, providing on the job training. They receive two-year contracts to rotate between metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to ensure the diversity of their experience. They also join different units in each hospital, including surgery and emergency medicine. In the largest ever health workforce boost in the state, the NSW Government has invested a record

$2.8 billion to recruit an additional 1,060 doctors, 5,000 nurses, 880 allied health staff and 1,360 hospital support staff over a four year period. More information on the recruitment of JMOs can be found here: www.heti. nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/ courses-and-programs/medicalgraduate-recruitment

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Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Health system boost with record intern intake

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

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What to do if workers test positive for COVID-19

he NSW Government says they are focussed on supporting industry and business to remain COVID-safe, and they want to ensure employers and their workers who test positive for COVID-19 have the key information and resources they need. Rules for workers who test positive for COVID-19 If a worker tests positive for COVID-19, they will need to selfisolate immediately for 7 days from the day they were tested, and not leave home or let anyone come into their home unless they live there. A negative PCR (nose and throat swab) or rapid antigen test is not needed to leave isolation and return to work. If they have a sore throat, runny nose, cough or shortness of breath after 7 days, they must remain in isolation until 24 hours after their symptoms have resolved. People should wear a mask when near or talking to others, and avoid visiting high risk settings (health care, aged care, disability care or correctional facilities) for a further 3 days. How a business will find out that a worker tests positive for COVID-19 A business owner or employer might be notified that a worker who

has attended the workplace has tested positive for COVID-19 by: • the worker who has tested positive • an employer of a worker who visits the workplace • public health authorities. If you run a business, you must notify SafeWork NSW if a worker has, or is likely to have, contracted COVID-19 at work and requires hospitalisation. Business responsibilities to inform workers about a positive COVID-19 case Employers should advise workers

and contractors of the general situation, noting that the privacy and confidentiality of the person who tested positive for COVID-19 must always be maintained. Information provided should include: • symptoms of COVID-19 that staff and contractors should monitor themselves for • where to seek advice and help • reminders to staff, contractors, visitors and customers to not enter the premises if they are unwell • advice on physical distancing and

personal hygiene measures • what infection control measures the business operator has put in place, including cleaning • any other specific advice provided by NSW Health. Guidance is available for businesses with a worker who tests positive for COVID-19 on nsw.gov.au. You can also download a factsheet from NSW Health. Thank you for your support to protect the community and help NSW stay open during this period.

local news

n uncertain job market and the inability to travel overseas has led to a decline in high school graduates participating in a “gap year.” But there’s plenty of opportunity for growth and experiences right here in our own backyard. The Australian Government has partnered with the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) to develop AgCAREERSTART – a gap year program which matches young Australians with an on-farm job in regional Australia while addressing barriers and attitudes to work in Australian agriculture. AgCAREERSTART applicant Romy Ainslee is a young Australian who graduated in 2021 from Hawkesbury High school. Ms Ainslee is excited for the opportunities AgCAREERSTART will give her. “I’ve been stuck in the same place my whole life and I’m keen to get out there and try something different,” Ms Ainslee said. “I originally started an agriculture course in high school. However, the program ended up not running as not enough people signed up to do it. I’ve had an interest in agriculture ever since. “With AgCAREERSTART I don’t mind what type of agriculture I end up doing or where I get placed, as long as I get the opportunity to learn some new skills,” Ms Ainslee said. NFF Chief Executive Officer Tony Mahar said a gap year with AgCAREERSTART will give young

Welcoming new Aussie citizens in online ceremony

ednesday was a day to celebrate as 20 residents from 11 different countries became Australian Citizens in a virtual ceremony hosted by Mayor Tricia Hitchen. Our new Australian Citizens were also welcomed by distinguished guests Senator Marise Payne, the Hon Stuart Ayres MP, the Member for Londonderry Prue Car, Deputy Mayor John Thain, Councillors Cook, McKeown, Day, Carney, Rusev, and Pullen, and Penrith City Council General Manager Warwick Winn. Penrith City Council would like to congratulate and officially welcome our newest Citizens; and said they are grateful to have such a culturally diverse population to enrich our community.

people the opportunity to explore some of Australia’s most beautiful regions while learning new skills. “Young people are finishing school in a world of uncertainty. They still need that well-earned break from study, and they want to gain independence, even more so after almost two years of online lessons and being stuck at home,” Mr Mahar said. “AgCAREERSTART participants will be matched with an on-farm job, given training and development, and granted access to industry

events and experiences with their AgCAREERSTART cohort. They can learn something new in a handson way, while gaining valuable life experience. “If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s to make the most of every opportunity. Travel may always be possible, but a program like this doesn’t come along every day,” Mr Mahar said. Through AgCAREERSTART, participants will be employed under award wages on qualified farms for up

to 12 months. Participants will receive safety training, on-farm induction and VET scholarships to upskill on the job. Participants will also be able to access government funded relocation assistance. The first on-farm placements for AgCAREERSTART will commence in March 2022. Applications for both farmer hosts and participants are now open. For more information and to register your interest visit www.agcareerstart. com.au

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

New gap year program entices young australians to the regions

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

local news

Healthy and active for life By staff from Nepean Blue Mountains Health

ynne joined the FREE 10week Healthy and Active for Life Online program last year to make small, sustainable changes in her lifestyle to improve her health. The program for adults 60 years or older and Aboriginal people 45 years or over, is run four times a year by one of our local health professionals. It covers lots of topics including healthy eating and physical activity. No prior knowledge or exercise experience is required to sign-up. “I enrolled in the program because it looked interesting and I thought it would help me to lead a healthier lifestyle. Even though I knew the

majority of the information given, it was good to have it reinforced and I was able to learn new tricks and ideas as well,” says Lynne. “You can do the exercises at your own pace, knowing your own limitations. It was easy to follow and with the program facilitator encouraging me weekly, I felt supported the whole time.” Since completing the program Lynne makes better food choices and is more conscious of exercise. “I feel like I’ve achieved something. I’ve even recommended the program to friends,” says Lynne. The next program starts on 31 January 2022. For more information and to register go to: http://activeandhealthy.nsw. gov.au/.../healthy-and.../

Nurse’s commitment to culturally-safe care recognised

lue Mountains District Anzac Memorial Hospital staff continue to be recognised for their outstanding commitment to culturally-safe care with Emergency Department Registered Nurse, Kasey Wright becoming a finalist for Aboriginal Nurse of the Year in the 2021 NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards. “I am truly humbled to be nominated. I did not realise the impact I have had as a nurse, so I am truly honoured to be considered,” says Kasey. Kasey is a proud Aboriginal woman from Brewarrina, traditional lands of the Ngemba people. She began her career at Blue Mountains Hospital in 2017 as a valued member of our casual workforce before transitioning to a full time position in the Emergency Department of Blue Mountains Hospital.

Kasey has been described by her colleagues as a role model who always demonstrates a passion for her work, as well as being a strong and professional advocate for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Using appropriate language and putting the

patient first provides comfort to all of her patients. When asked how she stays focused working in an Emergency Department, Kasey said taking the time to create relationships with her patients is at the forefront of her work.

“I treat each patient with the respect and dignity that I would give to any family member of mine. Each patient deserves the same treatment regardless of their background,” says Kasey. “I believe that it only takes a few moments to let a patient know that they are important, to explain what is going on, and let them know what will happen. This hopefully gives them the ability to trust you as a nurse and become a little more comfortable in an extremely uncomfortable environment.” Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is proud to have two nominees in this year’s Awards with Richard Gilfillan, Midwifery Educator also nominated for the Judith Meppem Leadership Award. Winners for the NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards will be announced via a virtual ceremony on 3 February 2022.

Embark on a fulfilling career as an Enrolled Nurse Are you thinking of a career in nursing or considering a career change? An Enrolled Nursing Scholarship with NSW Health could be the opportunity for you. Scholarship applications are now open for the NSW Health Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse) 2022 program. As an enrolled nurse you will have a rewarding career, opportunities for ongoing education, fulfilling work and the chance to work across a range of clinical and community environments. The Enrolled Nurse scholarship includes course fees for a Diploma of Nursing and guarantees a job offer at the completion of the program (after standard recruitment and registration processes).

Scholarship recipient Abigail Booth is on the first of three rotations. She knew nursing was meant for her when she began her placement on the Rehabilitation Ward at Blue Mountains Hospital. “The collaboration and support on

the ward is amazing. I really enjoy getting to know my patients and having that professional relationship with them on their recovery journey,” says Abigail. Working in the Nepean Blue Mountains area was important to

Abigail. The diversity of our Local Health District gives her broad experience in her placements, nursing in Nepean Hospital, a large tertiary facility, as well as the more community based Blue Mountains Hospital. Abigail recommends the program to anyone wanting a fulfilling career. “It’s such a rewarding job helping people. You see people go from not a great place to feeling better and know that you’ve helped that process. If you’ve got a caring attitude, nursing can be for anyone.” Applications for the 2022 NSW Health Enrolled Nurse scholarships are open until 10 February 2022. To view the Applicant Information Package and apply, visit: www.health. nsw.gov.au/enrollednurse

local COLUMNIST

s a pet owner, there is a lot to consider when planning a holiday. Should you leave your pet at a boarding facility, arrange a pet sitter, or even bring them along with you? Whichever option you decide this holiday period, there are a few basic must-do’s before you begin your holiday: • Vaccinations – Ensure your pet is up to date with their vaccination. Boarding facilities request that your dog has had a Kennel Cough vaccine at least two weeks prior to their stay. • Heartworm prevention – Monthly preventatives or even a Proheart heartworm injection that lasts twelve months is a great idea. • Flea and tick prevention – Apply / administer flea and tick preventatives at least two weeks before you travel, especially if you are going into known paralysis tick regions. Remember to reapply at correct intervals. • Microchip details – Just in case your pet decides to escape or take a holiday of its own, ensure that their microchip details are up to date. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and ID tag that includes your mobile phone numbers. Research your destination: When planning your holiday, learn about your destination and accommodation. Check that your accommodation includes secure fencing and search for access to dogfriendly areas such as beaches, parks and walking

tracks. Don’t forget to read local council regulations and make sure you have the contact details of the closest Vet should your pet require medical attention. Make yourself familiar with the local hazards, especially paralysis ticks and known snake regions. Travelling in the car: Get your pet ready for car travel well in advance. If your pet is anxious during car rides, it is best to be prepared. If your pet is drooling, panting, yawning or trembling they may be uncomfortable. Start with very short trips, praising them when they show calm, relaxed behaviour. As they improve, progress to longer trips. If you have a pet who dislikes car trips, you can get them used to the car environment by feeding them treats or

their meals near the car while it is parked – make it fun and slowly but surely build them up to the travel experience. Praise them when they show calm, relaxed behaviour. Other tips include: • Not feeding your pet for approximately 4-6 hours prior to travel (water is fine) • Plan regular, short breaks for your pet to get out the car, ensure they have fresh water • Ensure there is plenty of fresh air (open the windows or an air vent) • Remember that pets have sensitive hearing so limit loud music while travelling • Talk to your Vet if you feel your pet would benefit from calming medications. This will need a trial run before you head off on your holiday, so prepare this well in advance. Travel safety: Restrain your pet in the car. Unrestrained pets are distracting to the driver and are a potentially dangerous projectile if the car suddenly swerves, stops, or is involved in an accident. Cats or small dogs should be placed in a secure carrier and seat belt harnesses used for medium or large breed dogs. Place animals on the back seat or cargo area if you have a wagon, never the front passenger’s seat due to airbags. Pets shouldn’t be allowed to stick their head out of the window due to the risk of injury especially to their eyes. Happy travels. For more information contact the team at Greencross Vet Coreen Ave on 4731 3055.

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Holiday travel with your pet

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

2021, a year in review and how it may affect you in 2022 With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

2021 is done and dusted and everyone is hoping 2022 will be a better year in many ways. And what a year it’s been. We’re now living through the most extreme government intervention in financial markets in history. It is wise to review some of the big picture things shaping the world around us and hopefully figure out how to best position our portfolio and assets in order to take advantage of the coming changes. The continuation of covid was expected and has played havoc in the main street economy but as with all crises over the past 40 years, the predictable response by the RBA has been to drop interest rates to stimulate the economy. Each time this has caused a spike in financial markets – and the struggling retail and hospitality industry is juxtaposed against the all-time highs in both the stock and property markets. The economy has a lot of moving parts though, and the attempted management of it always throws up a few unintended consequences to keep us on our toes. We have seen multiple supply chain shocks through the pandemic which raises questions about some of the shortcomings of globalisation and just-

in-time inventory management. Beginning from the difficulty in sourcing PPE for front line staff at the beginning of the pandemic, to the current difficulties in sourcing steel and timber for construction and to the narrowly averted Adblue diesel fuel shortage in the transport industry. Of course, it is impossible to understand what is happening in Australia without looking at the world around us. Incredibly 40 percent of all US dollars ever in the history of America were printed in the last 12 months and in October the House of Representatives passed legislation to raise the debt ceiling again to avoid default in December. Then in April the Federal reserve discontinued weekly updating of the M1 and M2 money supply series with Chairman Powell explicitly stating that money supply is unrelated to inflation…! You can’t make this stuff up as this is the exact opposite of traditional economic theory. Of course, the inflation figures came out in April at a disturbingly high 4.2 percent (well above their 2 percent target) when we were told that inflation was “transitory”. They have been anything but transitory with the figures creeping up ever since most recently coming in at 6.8 percent and the highest level in 40 years. Whether that has been to the increase in money supply, a supply-side shock due to the shipping crisis or a combination

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of both has been a matter of debate amongst money managers and capital allocators. In many ways, Australia is a microcosm of the other major industrialised economies and we have ventured down the path of money printing as well. Globally the central banks and governments have added $15 trillion USD in ‘stimulus’ packages in order to soften the blow of COVID-19. This equates to around 17 percent of global GDP. Given that global debt in 2019 already stood at $250 trillion it doesn’t take a genius to guess that all of it is borrowed. Borrowed money is effectively future demand and consumption brought forward to the present. There have been many times in history that this has played out from Weimar Germany, Nixon taking the USD off the gold peg in 1971, the Black Monday share market crash of 1987, the GFC in 2008. Each time it caused a boom in property prices as generational wealth was transferred from creditors to those that held hard assets like property and precious metals. I don’t expect this time will be much different. 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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MEMBERS VOLUNTEERS WANTED OPEN WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS 10AM-2PM The St Marys & District Historical Society will be opening up for 2022 on Wednesday 2nd February and will continue to open on our usual 10am to 2pm on Wednesday’s and Saturdays. We would love to have new members as the current membership is low due to effects of Covid and the lockdowns. So please, if you are interested on the history of St Marys and the surrounding areas and would love to volunteer, take the time to come and see us at our “Chambers” Headquarters on Mamre Road at the Corner Precinct that was once the St Marys Municipal Council Chambers and later the library and baby health centre then later became the cultural centre before the Historical Society took over. Find out just how historical St Marys-South Creek was, enough that the elite of the early dignitaries wanted grants of land here.

Any questions please phone our President Lyn Forde on 8840 8771 and leave a message if there is no answer.

ENTERTAINMENT

The Spooky Men’s Chorale 11 February 7.30pm 12 February 2pm Sometimes silly and humorous, sometimes blissfully tender-hearted, the Spooky Men strike a deeply human chord. Armed only with their voices, a sly collection of hats and facial hair, and a twinkle in the eye, the Spooky Men’s Chorale commentates on the absurdity and grandeur of the modern male. Find out why the group has won over audiences internationally with its blend of beautiful ballads, Georgian table songs and tongue-in-cheek anthems.

Q Theatre Lab 2022 17 - 18 February 7.30pm Two new short works. One night in the Studio. Q Theatre Lab is an intimate night of new experiences from leading independent artists. Two 30-minute preview performances offer audiences the chance to peek behind the curtain and see two plays, fresh off the page, back-to-back on the same night. Featuring Silenced by Linda Nicholls-Gidley and Kingdom by Jamie Oxenbould & Mary Rachel Brown.

The Mell-O-Tones 19 February 2pm & 7.30pm Sydney’s finest jazz and swing musicians come together to perform a sparkling repertoire of classics. Music from the Golden Age of Broadway and Hollywood, Latin-American cha-cha, rumba and mambo evergreens; and big band versions of the great songs associated with legends like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire. The 15-piece big band, led by conductor and vocalist Phillip Sametz is a fixture on the Sydney arts and entertainment scene.

Penrith Conservatorium Annual Concert 17 February 7pm Join us as we celebrate the diligent work and creativity of our students here at Penrith Conservatorium of Music. Having overcome the challenges of 2021, we are proud to present this concert full of fine music by the 2021 scholarship recipients and the newly formed Richard Bonynge Ensemble. The evening also features a special performance by the recipient of the 2021 Silvy Medal.

Comedy @ The Joan 18 February 7.30pm Monthly stand-up comedy featuring six comics in quick succession over a side-splitting 70-minutes. Host Frida Deguise is a rising talent on the Sydney comedy scene, and has built a reputation for breaking stereotypes and a fearless pursuit of comic material. Frida and her line-up will have you laughing with them and despite yourself until your cheeks hurt.

Morning Melodies: Get This Party Started 23 February 11am Starring Nathan Foley, Belinda Marks, Chris Gable and the Greg Hooper Quartet. Three of Australia’s award-winning cabaret acts take the stage.

Amphibian 25 - 26 February 10am & 12pm Poignant, powerful and bubbling with humour, Amphibian is a sparkling teen drama, based on the real life testimonies of refugees. Chloe and Hassan are sent out of class under suspicion for stealing money while feeding the class axolotl. As the unlikely pair work out who’s responsible, Chloe hears the heartbreaking story of an Afghan boy who has travelled alone, across land and sea, for a better life.

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Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

What’s on in February at PP&VA

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

ENTERTAINMENT

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NEPEAN HISTORY

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

ustralian Royalty family James Evans was born in 1802. He was one of 220 convicts transported on the ship “Batavia” in October 1817 after being convicted at Stafford Assizes for “privately stealing”. At the Assizes the total number of people tried amounted to 123 and of these 17 received the sentence of death. He was sentenced for a term of 14 years and arrived in April 1818. In the 1828 census he was a labourer for Henry Cox at “Littleborough”, Kelso where he met Mary Ann Lewis a widow born in the colony in 1792 and living in Bathurst. Her husband had died before 1825 and she was left with some cattle, sheep and a working ox. A letter was sent to the Governor asking permission for James and Mary to marry with the consent of Henry Cox who asked that he remove James “some distance from the district”. The religious marriage of James and Mary Ann took place in 1829 in Kelso. Mary’s original husband Richard Lewis, a grazier in Bathurst and came on the” Coromandel” sentenced for 7 years. His marriage with Mary was solemnized at St James church in Sydney in January 1825. Mary Ann died in December 1868 in Sydney and is buried at Pioneers Memorial Park Leichhardt, Inner West Council, James is not buried with her. Their son James (Jnr) was born in 1830 at Richmond. He married Sarah Mary Purcell in 1851 at Pitt Town, Wilberforce. They resided in Penrith had nine children. He learnt the trade of blacksmith and it was believed he served his apprenticeship with Henry Hall of Emu Plains. For many years he carried on farming successfully at Castlereagh. Later he became a Government contractor building several public schools in the District as well as some of the best houses in the town of Penrith, but in his later years he was not as successful and finally gave it up and tried farming again at Castlereagh. The altered conditions of farming became somewhat new to him and he gave it up after a short trial. He then started again as a blacksmith of agricultural implements. Finally giving up when there was not enough business and assisted his son-in-law Alderman Easterbrook in the butchering business. James was highly respected throughout the district with the position of Alderman in the Penrith Municipal Council from 1876-81 then re-elected in 1883 and became Mayor in 1885 but didn’t stand for re-election in 1886. He was a prominent Mason having been a Past Master in the old Queen’s Lodge E.C, his lectures were always perfect and he did more to advance the cause of Masonry in the Penrith district. He never occupied the position of Master in the new Nepean Lodge although he was ready to assist in the raisings, passing’s, and instruction as well as delivering charges, etc. He died in April 1895 at Penrith at the age of 65 in “mysterious” circumstances” his death remaining a mystery. His inquest was held at Joyce’s Hotel before Mr J K Lethbridge, J.P., District Coroner and a jury of twelve. His daughter who lived at Mulgoa Road with her parents attended the inquest and said she was at home and saw her father last when he went to bed at a quarter to eight as he usually retired early and appeared to be in good health and spirits and was talking to us before bed. In the morning she heard him come out into the dining room from his bedroom he came to her bedroom door as he usually did and called out Eva and she replied that she was getting up and heard him winding up the clock then went out and came back in again and was standing on the veranda talking to her about the fowls then she went into the dining-room and saw him lying on the couch. She asked what the matter was and he replied he had a pain in his stomach that he had all night so she brought him a hot

 Photo of “Littleborough” courtesy of Sue Rosen Assoc.

cup of tea and she heard no more until she heard her mother ask him what’s the matter and he said he was ill and could not speak any more. They sent for Dr Shand who first noticed that there was no change in his breathing but sometime afterwards he appeared to be convulsed in pain. It was thought that he took a crystal substance of a reddish colour from a bottle in the house and at the time there was a half packet of Epsom salts on the shelf in the dining-room like what was produced at the inquest. There was also two bottles of poison in a small box on the chest of drawers in her mother’s bedroom and something said to her that morning made her look where the poison was kept and she found the strychnine that had been in the house for ten or twelve years and that her father had not been able to get work for a long time and didn’t know if he had been pressed by anyone and it never seemed to trouble him about money matters or want of work and with her father being so long out of work the money was nearly all gone and there was not more than £3 or £4 owing to her knowledge as her father was a very steady man and lived happily with us. Several other people gave information at the inquest including a Small Debts Court bailiff who said he had a warrant to distrain on James’s goods and chattels for rent due amounting to £5/10s and was told he could not pay it but would settle with me today. The verdict was “The death was probably caused by an overdose of strychnine but that there is no evidence to show how, or by what means, such strychnine was administered.” His funeral was a Masonic one with about forty of the brethren taking part in the procession. The W.M. of the Lodge (Brother Colley) read the service at the grave. The procession was said to be the largest seen in Penrith for some time. He was buried at St Stephen’s cemetery, Penrith. Photo of “Littleborough” courtesy of Sue Rosen Assoc. Source: State Library of Queensland. Convict Transportation Registers Database 1787-1867, Bateson, Charles. The convict ships 1787-1868. 2nd ed. Glasgow : Brown, Son & Ferguson Ltd., 1969, 1828 New South Wales, Australia Census, British Newspaper Archive, Ancestry, BDM, Nepean Times, 1825 muster (1823-1825), NSW and Tasmania, Australia Convict Musters, 1806-1849, 1822 Muster, Star (London) - Tuesday 25 March 1817, State Library of Queensland. Convict Transportation Registers Database 1787-1867, Bateson, Charles. The convict ships 1787-1868. Glasgow Brown, Son & Ferguson Ltd., 1985-1969, Ancestry.1828 New South Wales, Australia Census, British Newspaper Archive on-line, Australia Marriage Index, 1788-1950 on-line, BDM, Nepean Times, New South Wales and Tasmania, Australia Convict Musters, 1806-1849, Citation details 1822 Muster, Australia Death Index, 1787-1985.

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Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Sudden Death at Mulgoa Road

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

SPORT

Swimming for Little Wings By Noel Rowsell

78-year old Peter Genellos has been raising funds for charity for over half of his life and will hit the water again on 6th February, when he contests the annual Cole Classic at Manly. The Cole Classic is an open-water swimming event, held annually at Shelley Beach, Manly. The event is regarded as one of Australia’s longest-running ocean swims and certainly one of the more prestigious. The race takes place on the first Sunday in February and was originally held at Bondi Beach. In 2007 the race was relocated to Manly and coinciding with the move, a 1km swim was added to the existing 2km event to encourage participation of novice swimmers. A member of the St Marys Rotary Club, Peter was a regular competitor in Penrith when the annual Bridge to Bridge was held, competing in that event for 30 years. Since attaining the ripe old age of 70, Peter has switched his focus to ocean swims and, in spite of Covid restrictions on events over the past two years,

has managed to compete in events every year in his ongoing pursuit of funds for charity. Over the years, Peter has raised $33,000 for the Rotary Children’s Wing at Westmead, $7,500 for the Oncology Department (Chemo & Radiation) at Nepean Hospital, $45,000 for Nepean Hospital’s Breast Cancer Fund, $3,500 for the Adolescent Unit at Westmead Children’s Hospital and $30,000 for #Little Wings. In the past 39 years, Peter has raised a total of over $230,000 for charity. # Little Wings is a non-profit organisation which provides free, professional and safe flight and ground transport services for sick children in rural and regional NSW. We strive to ease the journey and help sick children access specialised medical

Peter with Australian swimming legend Dawn Fraser

services and treatments only available in major cities or towns. We do everything we can to support families by easing the financial burden, emotional strain and travel fatigue they experience due to the long-distance travel associated with receiving vital medical treatment.

Nepean News

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SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

he 2022 Major Pennant Golf competition tees off this Sunday 30th January, with 6 men’s games and 1 women’s games being hosted locally. In Division 1 Men, Penrith host St Michael’s, whilst Twin Creeks host New South Wales. In Division 2, Stonecutters Ridge host Killara and Dunheved is away to Pennant Hills. Division 3 has Springwood travelling to Kogarah, Glenmore Heritage Valley host Brighton Lakes and Richmond host Woolooware, whilst in Division 4 Leonay host Northbridge and Wallacia is away to Campbelltown. Windsor starts the season in Division 5 with a bye. In the Ladies division, Stonecutters Ridge is away to Cronulla. There will be plenty of interest in Division One, as both Penrith and Twin Creeks will be focussing on consolidating their spots in the premier division against some of the state’s best golfers. Dunheved and Wallacia both won promotion for 2022 and local fans will be hoping both clubs continue to play the quality golf which typified their elevation in the ranks. Individually, Will Blomley (Stonecutters Ridge) and Chris Blakeley (Wallacia) will also be hoping to maintain their respective good form in 2022, with both players undefeated in the 2021 preliminary games. The 2022 regular season will run to 6th March, with

Chris Blakeley (Wallacia CC) was undefeated in Major Pennants in 2021 - photo by Noel Rowsell

the playoffs on 13th March and the Final on either 20th / 27th March. The players chosen in each of the ten clubs are as follows: Glenmore Heritage Valley GC: Ben Michelmore, Steve Zingle, Andrew Robb, Michael Barton, Sean Twomey, Matt Talley, Matt Turton, Brad Weir Wallacia CC: Chris Blakeley, Paul Cheshire, Reece Hackett, Chris Holmes, Jason Jamieson, John Pagett, Noah Reitsma, Calvin Vidigal, Rob Walker

Penrith GC: Dale Hughes (c), Dan Smyth (v/c), Wil Arnold, Blade Gadd, Jeff Gadd, Josh Gadd, Jonah Metuangaro, Alex Platts, Josh Scott, Reserves - Chris Lawler, Craig Montgomery, Danny Lewis, Josh Roberts, Michael Organ, Matthew Munce (manager) Leonay GC: David Moore (Captain), Adam Brennen, Anthony Wright, Dan Worthy, Wayne Worthy, Zac Lange, Callen Curry, Reserves - David Grosse, Peter Homan, Peter Walker (manager) Twin Creeks CC: Matt Devries, Chris McMillan, Justin McMillan, Luke Arthur, John Glasheen, Manav Madan, Chris Moreton, Jeremy White, Dilshad Ali, James Tolomeo, Wayne Loveridge Richmond GC: Daniel Ayre, Ian Davies, Dave Dennis, Craig Ellings ©, Trent McMillen, Damion Miller, Jason Moss, Reggie Papps, Reserves: Michael Beehag, Tom Chambers, Ti Fox, Fred Peters Springwood CC: Mark Smith, Rob Bradley, Andrew Stanford, Gavin Stanford, Brad Cole, Jake Minney, Chris Arundell, Kyle Honeysett, Aaron Savic, Jamie Kvana Stonecutters Ridge GC: Nathan Anning, Will Blomley, Kirk Buckley, Ryan Cadle, Darcy Mackay, Ryan Suckling, Kade Webber, Harrison Wilde, Daniel Williams, Cooper Ison (Development player), Team Managers: Steve Baird and Matt Horton Windsor CC: (Not supplied) Dunheved GC: (Not supplied) Stonecutters Ridge GC Ladies: Annabelle Elina, Grace Lee, Michelle Yang, Caitlin Davidson, Lia Lavelle, Anne Korte, Annoushka Maikap, Joanna Lee, Savannah Webb, Marie-Claire Domingo

A Presidential victory in the Ray Dukes Cup By Noel Rowsell

eonay GC President David Grosse has claimed the 2021 Ray Dukes Cup, shooting a par round of 67 to finish 5 shots clear of Adrian Kuipers, Peter Homan and Daniel Worthy, followed by Anthony Wright in 5th position. First played in 1996, the event is now in it’s 26th year and has been won by some of Leonay’s best players, along with several top golfers from the Nepean District. Grosse had already won the event twice (2016, 2018) and his trifecta of victories is only surpassed by Leonay legend Laurie Cupples, who has won the event on four occasions (2000, 2013, 2014 and 2015). Grosse, Homan, Worthy and Wright are all members of Leonay’s Major Pennant squad, which will be a huge confidence booster heading into the first round of that competition this Sunday. 162 players faced the starter on Saturday, with Adam Small taking out the Nett division, ahead of Grosse, Brian Elderton, Les Alexander and Robert Kuipers. The Greg Chalmers Junior Masters was run over 22nd / 23rd January, with several western Sydney players contesting both the Girls and Boys divisions. Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge) finished in 7th place overall and 2nd in the 12/13 Years Age division, whilst Sayaka Iwatani (Twin Creeks) finished 12th overall and 6th in the 14/15 Years Age division. Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge) was the best of the local boys, finishing in a tie for 3rd place overall and 2nd in the 14/15 Years Age division, Blake Hodges (Dunheved) tied 7th overall and 4th in 14/15 Years and Ryan Cadle tied 15th overall and 4th in 16/17 Years.

Legend of the Nepean Ray Dukes presents David Grosse with the perpetual trophy for the 2021 Ray Dukes Cup - photo supplied

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Local clubs begin Major Pennant season

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

SPORT

A river of dreams for young rowers By Noel Rowsell

he Nepean River was a hive of rowing activity over the past 16 days, with numerous schools and rowing clubs scheduling training sessions during that period. Schools included Pymble Ladies College, Barker College, Shore School, North Sydney Girls HS, The Kings School, St Joseph’s College, Queenwood School for Girls, along with Mosman Rowing Club and Drummoyne Rowing Club. The action began with Mosman Rowing Club on 7th January and is scheduled to run through to 29th January, when The Kings School complete the schedule.

Students from Pymble Ladies College training on the Nepean River on Saturday. Photo by Noel Rowsell

Schedule announced for 2022 Paddle Marathon Series By Noel Rowsell

T Marathon paddlers on the water at Wagga Beach. Photo courtesy of Ian Wrenford

he schedule for the 2022 Paddle Australia Marathon Series has been announced, with western Sydney hosting events at Windsor on Sunday 29th May and Penrith on Sunday 19th June. The series commences in Oura-Wagga Beach in February, followed by Canberra (which includes the State Championships) in early-March, Lane Cove in late-March, Bateman’s Bay Paddle Round Bonus Challenge in early-April, the Marathon National Championships on the Gold Coast in late-April, Davistown and Windsor both in May, Penrith in June, Woronora in July, Swallow Rock in August,

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Narrabeen in September, then the Series Final & Presentations in Makai on 15th October. The series offers paddlers ten races on waterways around the state, with each race hosted by a local club. Distances of 20, 15, 10 and 5kms are on offer, with time-based divisions ensuring paddlers are racing against those of a similar standard. Two bonus rounds offer varied distances, with a standard number of bonus points able to be credited back to the series point score. Full details on 2021 results can be found at Marathon Series 2021: Divisional Winners & PlaceGetters | PaddleNSW

SPORT

By PANTHERS MEDIA

enrith Panthers is delighted to announce Dylan Edwards has signed a two-year contract extension with the club. The 26-year-old fullback has committed to Panthers until at least the end of the 2024 season. “Panthers is the only place I want to be so I’m pumped to have secured my future here,” Edwards said. “This club means everything to me. I’ve grown up with this team and the bond we share is something special. “I believe we’ve still got a lot to achieve as a team, and my family and I are so grateful to be part of that journey.” A Bellingen Dorrigo Magpies junior, Edwards progressed through the Panthers development pathways and was a member of the club’s premiership-winning NYC side in 2015. The following year he represented the Junior Kangaroos, made his NRL debut against CronullaSutherland Sharks in Round 18 and was named in the NYC Team of the Year. Edwards’ chapter in club folklore was all but confirmed when it emerged he played through the 2021 NRL Finals Series with a broken foot, including running for a game-high 230 metres as the Panthers won the 2021 NRL Grand Final. “Dylan’s character and courage is an asset for our club,” Panthers coach Ivan Cleary said. “His attitude and commitment means his game continues to develop and we firmly believe his best years are still ahead of him. “He sets an outstanding example, on and off the field, for any young player with aspirations of a career in the NRL.” Edwards has played 80 NRL games and scored 21 tries. “Dylan is a quality young man and we’re delighted to see him commit to our club for another two seasons,” Panthers General Manager Rugby League Matt Cameron said. “Like all those who graduate from the Panthers junior development system, he shares a strong

Dylan Edwards ahead of kick-off in the 2021 NRL Grand Final.

connection with his teammates, our club and our community. “We sincerely appreciate the patience shown by

Dylan and his management during negotiations, especially given the team’s extended break following their success in the NRL Grand Final.”

Penrith hosts the Oceania Championships

Jessica Fox will be the headline performer this weekend in Penrith at the 2022 Oceania Championships. Photo by Noel Rowsell

Paddle Australia is welcoming International Canoe Slalom racing back to Penrith this weekend, when the Penrith Whitewater Stadium hosts the Oceania Championships from 28th – 30th January. The Oceania Championships will kick off the 2022 International Canoe Federation (ICF) Canoe

Slalom calendar, with athletes competing for ICF ranking points and selection to the 2022 Australian Canoe Slalom Team. This weekend’s events will be headed by Olympic and World Champion Jessica Fox, who is coming off a stellar 2021 season, winning Olympic gold and

bronze medals, along with a World Championship crown in Extreme Canoe Slalom, which will make its Olympic debut in Paris in 2024. The full schedule for the weekend can be found at www.paddlepenrith.com.au/2022-oceaniachampionships/

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

Edwards re-signs with Panthers

Nepean News 28 January 2022 Issue 321OWDIG

SPORT

Panthers Juniors and South Juniors RE: Under 6 Gala Day

TTENTION all Under 6’s Be a part of the Panthers Juniors and South Sydney District Junior Rugby League Under 6 Gala Day. Simply register to play Under 6 Rugby League with a local Panthers or Souths Junior Rugby League Club and you will have an amazing experience playing on Penrith Panthers BlueBet Stadium, be awarded a FREE custom made Junior Panthers or Souths Jersey, plus all the other fun listed below. HERE’S YOUR MAGIC DAY PLANNED Saturday 12 February 2022 Non-Stop action from 4pm to 8pm Panthers, BlueBet Stadium MUST Rego before February 1st Mums, Dads and Carers will watch their child magically transform from local junior into future Panthers or Rabbitohs sensation in the blink of an eye. ALL UNDER 6 REGISTERED PLAYERS WILL RECEIVE; FREE entry for Everyone Festival style beats and treats ‘LIVE’ Recording of every match available to purchase thanks to Spot on Video Pre-Game Jersey Ceremony Pre-Game NRL tunnel experience Run out of tunnel to ‘Hells Bells’ for Panthers Juniors Run out of tunnel to ‘Glory Glory’ for Souths Juniors Grand Final Fire Flame entry to field Play on Panthers BlueBet Stadium Receive your FREE custom made Junior Panthers or Souths Jersey After Match team photos available to purchase thanks to Sensor Studios

A FREE Sausage Sizzle for every player A FREE OAK Plus Milk for every player Show-bags on offer A FREE rides package experience A FREE Foti Fireworks show! TO REGISTER TO PLAY RUGBY LEAGUE SIMPLY; To Redeem your $100 Active Kids Voucher click www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/applyactive-kids-voucher To Register with your local Panthers or Souths junior club click Panthers https://panthersjuniors.com/24clubs Souths https://southsjuniors.com.au/club-websites LIVE MATCH RECORDING & FRAMED TEAM PHOTO OFFER Hit the link below to pre-purchase your framed team photo and Live match recording package from the event. ORDER NOW https://www.cognitoforms. com/PanthersJuniors/Under6GalaEventPackage If you are still weighing up what your child’s 2022 community sport will be, then come and watch a FREE day on us and see how the fun, safety and positive environment Rugby League offers at 5 years of age. Please Share with all your U6 friends. For more information go to www.panthersjuniors.com/u6s-gala

#panthersvsrabbitohs #U6gala #AllNewAndReturningKidsWelcome #PlayRugbyLeague