Nepean News 28 May 2021

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

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local news

Loving life at The Royce Retirement Living at The Royce Do as little or much as you like, it’s your choice.

The Royce is a vibrant, retirement community with an abundance of amenities including; Café Royce, an artisan cafe serving delicious, healthy meals and snacks, all made from tasty fresh ingredients and HWA Studio at The Royce, your very own commercial hair and beauty salon.

Beautifully landscaped gardens are a standout feature of our retirement living community, with a wonderful array of flowering plants to awaken your senses.

Retire your way at The Royce. Do as little or as much as you want within a welcoming community. Wind down in the gymnasium, take a cooking class or simply enjoy a BBQ in one of the three communal courtyards or relax with family and friends from the comfort of your spacious balcony or terrace.

Living at The Royce means coming home every day to a warm, welcoming and fun-loving community with great facilities and a broad range of activities. To make life as easy as possible you’ll have access to a concierge, a dry-cleaning service and a handyman to help with odd jobs in your apartment.

At The Royce they understand the deep and valuable connection people have with their pets. Animals are wonderful companions, not to mention very therapeutic which is why they welcome them as members of The Royce community.

Living at The Royce gives you the freedom to make the most of your retirement. To live life exactly the way you want to.

Your Community

A picturesque setting with stunning mountain views.

If you are conscious of your health, the Great River Walk is just down the road or, if you prefer, you can take advantage of the on-site exercise classes and walking club. Need for a little retail therapy? Westfield Penrith and Nepean Village are both a stone’s throw away.

Being social is an important part of a happy retirement. Situated just next door, Panthers Penrith – Your World of Entertainment has everything you need for a great time.

There are a variety of entertainment options for you and your family including trivia, exciting live shows

at the Evan Theatre and even a spot of line dancing. Life at The Royce is made easy with everything at your fingertips.

It’s your choice, start planning now for the retirement you deserve at The Royce – a warm, welcoming and friendly community that you’ll enjoy calling home.

Café Royce

The heart of our lifestyle community Perfect for catching up with friends or relaxing with your favourite cup, Café Royce is a community favourite.

Enjoy a coffee from bespoke Sydney roaster, Little Marionette and delicious pastries made on-site in a beautiful, light-filled environment.

local news

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he first teaching career fast track program in NSW is open for applications for aspiring graduates and current teachers who want to turbocharge their careers to become a principal within 10 years.

The FASTstream program, beginning in Term 1 2022, aims to attract high-quality teaching staff to classrooms across NSW. Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies encourages teachers who are wanting to take this next step in their careers to apply.

“This is a great opportunity for our teachers to fast track their careers. We want the best teachers to have the opportunity to thrive in their career and this is what FASTstream is aiming to do,” Mrs Davies said.

“This opportunity sends a clear message teaching is an incredible career choice, and we want to support our great teachers to reach the very highest levels.

“Applications are open now and I encourage anyone who wants to speed up their career to apply,” Mrs Davies said.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell is also encouraging teachers to apply.

“The FASTstream program will incentivise upand-coming teachers and graduates by preparing participants for principal roles in up to 10 years, fast tracking the existing average of 20 years,” Ms Mitchell said.

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“This is a NSW first, and it is all about supporting our best teachers and also enticing our very best graduates into a rewarding teaching career,” FASTstream participants will be given a permanent teaching position and undertake placements that offer rich teaching and leadership experiences across a range of schools, including at least one placement in a regional area.

Participants will also receive mentoring and coaching from already excelling public school leaders and access to the suite of evidenceinformed leadership programs available through the School Leadership Institute (SLI).

For more information or to apply, please visit: www.education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/ faststream-program-applications-now-open.

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Fast lane for local teachers

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

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

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Malama Psarianos 0416 203 777 David Burnet 0412 448 883 Noel Rowsell 0424 007 202 Greg Yanda 0425 232 043 Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627 113 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com issuu.com/nepeannews

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

geo-targeting SMS alert issued by police has helped locate a teenage girl missing in Sydney’s west.

The 15-year-old was last seen outside a high school on Hosking Street, Cranebrook, about 11.30am Tuesday 18 May. As a result of inquiries, including a geo-targeting SMS alert issued to local residents, the teenage girl was located safe and well.

Police thank the media and the community for their assistance.

The above statement was very welcomed news for not just the family of the missing child, but parents across the Nepean region who could imagine their distress.

Geo-targeting is a fantastic tool in the search for missing residents. But it needs to be marketed so that people know that it isn’t a spam message.

Our Nepean News facebook page was flooded with people saying they had received the message but had assumed it was spam and ignored it. They were pleased that we had posted the number so they would know for next time.

So, we are repeating that message now for anyone who missed the facebook post. A good idea is to save the number to your phone so you know that it is official:

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local news

F

our times more patients are now accessing Nepean Hospital’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinic as a result of new programs streamlining the way they schedule appointments and process patient referrals.

The innovative program has resulted in a 60 per cent reduction on wait list times with over 90 percent of patients referred now screened and triaged faster and within five days.

The ENT clinic is one of the busiest clinics at the hospital receiving up to 1200 referrals per year from GPs and specialists.

Over the past few years the clinic’s high demand and volume of referrals led to an increased number of consumers waiting to be seen.

The clinic launched a comprehensive redesign to improve the management of its service and access to the clinic for patients.

Nurse Manager Surgical Outpatients Redesign, Angelo Fatato says the redesign was a collaboration involving many teams who identified areas of focus and improvement.

“We value the care we provide at our ENT clinic.

Our main goal was to keep that high standard of care but also keep patients out of the waiting room,” says Mr Fatato.

Based upon a review of the clinic, 16 recommendations were implemented to enhance the quality of its service and the results are showing greater satisfaction among consumers.

In describing how much effort went into the

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implementation of new structures within the unit Head of Department for ENT, Dr Niranjan Sritharan notes that they overhauled the system to create efficiencies within the service.

“There’s a stronger focus on guiding patients throughout the entire process and developing a continuum of care,” says Dr Sritharan.

“The goal of our unit is to continually improve the quantity and quality of ENT Head & Neck services provided to our community.”

The Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District encourages the use of innovation to help make improvements to its services. Projects such as the ENT clinic redesign are sustainable, repeatable and transferable and provide better experiences for our patients and staff.

At Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District we are always listening to our patients to improve the delivery of care and quality of our services.

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

ENT redesign reaps rewards patioman

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

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local news

Care packages for our Australian forces overseas

By Tony Fryer, St Marys RSL sub-Branch

A

t St Marys, six years ago, we became aware of a predicament that the Canberra-based RSL National was having in getting sufficient manpower (sorry, personpower)– to pack the six-monthly RSL Care Packages that all military troops on overseas assignments receive for ANZAC Day and for Christmas each year. So we called for volunteers at our St Marys RSL sub-Branch meeting and were inundated with helpers (and have been each six months for 5 years now) who are keen to show that these packs are put together by like-minded veterans who understand the environment the troops are in and how it truly feels to receive something of Australia when home is far away; and for them to know that other veterans are thinking of them.

We currently have a pool of around 30 volunteers from the sub-Branch who check their availability once we know the dates – then around 20 will eventually head to Randwick on the chosen dates to join up with a couple of other RSL members and a small number of ‘requisitioned’ army personnel. Once the task begins, it’s full concentration for several hours (depending on the number of personnel Australia has at that time on overseas deployments) – the mass production begins with assembling a box, neatly packing the items, through to inserting a letter from RSL National and our ‘personal touch’ flier (see photo), then securing the box and packing for shipment. When all systems are ‘go’, we find ourselves packing one box every 6 seconds!

We usually finish with a late but great BBQ lunch.

Team at start

Team at finish

The inserted flier provides a personal touch by extending an invitation to all returning personnel

Partial shipment

to visit the St Marys Outpost Veterans Centre (if coming out to western Sydney) to say hi, or even to assist them if they should have any welfare issues or need advocacy advice/assistance for issues with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

It’s a way of ensuring awareness of the Train that is run by the Vietnam Veterans Association, with integrated support from the local RSL subBranch. The flier is designed to remind these personnel that the RSL is there to support them.

It’s also a most valuable ‘day trip’ for our members – a fun day that helps build camaraderie within our members, with the thought that they are doing something for others and themselves as well. Normally our ‘cost-conscious’ Treasurer Ted (he has other, more creative nicknames as well) arranges for and drives the

Penrith Council bus to transport the volunteers to Randwick Barracks for the packaging; however lately, the COVID restrictions have caused us to now rely on the Army to move us – either way, it’s a light-hearted trip (often with a stop at the 2nd’s chocolate shop for re-sup on the way home!).

Of course many of the items to go into the packs have to be purchased

by RSL National – along with other funding, St Marys has assisted to partially alleviate this cost.

So now, we are awaiting dates for the October packing (for Christmas issue). With Australia’s withdrawal from the Afghanistan conflict zone, our overall numbers of deployed personnel have reduced, but there remains several hundred on deployment in other areas. We remain committed to offer support from RSL.

local news

M

ore than 75 tonnes of grass grown at a NSW prison will be donated to flood-affected farmers in the Hawkesbury region.

The first delivery of 150 bales of sorghum from Emu Plains Correctional Centre will be shared between a cattle farmer at Richmond and dairy farmer at Mulgrave.

Minister Roberts said the silage would help farmers feed their livestock after they were severely impacted by floods in March.

“It will bring much-needed relief for our farmers and producers, some who have as little as 10 days of feed remaining for their livestock,” Mr Roberts said.

“Our farmers have had it tough and we need to do all we can to support the hard working men and women across regional NSW. I thank the staff at Corrective Services Industries and Emu Plains who have come together to give back to the community and help those struggling.”

Each bale of sorghum weighs 500750kg.

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin said a small group of female inmates at the prison have gained some practical skills along the way.

“They have learned the process of taking care of the sorghum, assisting staff with preparation, weeding, irrigation and fencing,” Mr Severin said.

“Initially the crop was being prepared for drought relief purposes but it’s fantastic we’ve been able to divert this

for another good cause.”

Cattle farmer Jacqueline Leal said the donation was a blessing after a challenging time.

“It was really tough seeing my bales float away in the floods. I can’t thank everyone enough for the help these

donated bales will bring us,” Ms Leal said.

Corrective Services NSW has partnered with Resilience NSW, the Department of Primary Industries and NSW Business Connect as part of the project.

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Prison provides bale relief for farmers

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local news

Win win win for Winter World D

By KeRRIE DAVIES

espite a Council report from officers recommending the rejection of a planning proposal for Winter World, Penrith Councillors have supported an alternate motion by Councillor Thain. On Monday the Councillors voted to support the proposal and forward it to Department of Planning Infrastructure and Environment (DPIE) for determination.

The major stumbling block with the proposal was the overshadowing objections raised by a number of residents from Nepean Shores, however with the proponent agreeing to address the problem and look at various options to overcome the issues concerning the resident’s objections, Councillors gave their support.

In doing so, Councillor Thain and others highlighted their sympathy with the concerns raised and sought assurances that the Winter World proponents would be able to find a suitable solution for all parties.

It was pointed out that this was only the first step in the process as Winter World, if given support from DPIE for the planning proposal, would now have to submit a development application after going through a design panel. As this is a State Government significant development, the ultimate determination will now be made by the DPIE. Councillor Thain said that the proposal deserved the opportunity to go to the gateway.

“It is not often we overturn a Council officers recommendation. The DPIE will deal with the proposal and it will at least have the opportunity to address the overshadowing concerns,” Cr Thain said.

“Winter Sports World owner and developer Peter Magnisalis has assured us that he will work with the residents to come to a solution.

“It was pretty well supported with a vote of 13-1.”

The only Councillor to vote against Cr Thain’s alternative motion was Councillor Robin Cook.

This means that one of the hottest places on earth is a step closer to hosting year-round snow and skiing at a local winter sporting facility.

Mr Magnisalis said he was excited to work collaboratively with the council and the NSW Planning Department on finalising plans for Australia’s first indoor snow resort and alpine winter attraction.

Mr Magnisalis praised Penrith Council, stating that Councillors were supporting “one of the largest tourism developments in the area’s history.”

“Penrith has billed itself as the `Adventure Capital’.

It’s great to see that the council has embraced that adventure. It’s going to be a thrilling – and cool – ride.’’

Using real snow, the $300 million development proposed: • A 300m advanced run for experienced athletes and a dedicated learn to ski run • Olympic sized ice rink • Competition venue for figure, ice hockey, speed skating & alpine skiing • Ice climbing for mountaineer training • 4.5-star 120-room hotel • Restaurant and cafes with snow views • Fine dining revolving restaurant Currently a 2.35ha horse paddock located within the vibrant Riverlink Tourism Precinct on the banks of the Nepean River, the site would also include a Winter Wonderland snow play area, conference and function rooms.

Mr Magnisalis said Winter Sports World would generate 900 new ongoing tourism jobs after construction and inject $80 million a year into the local economy with 250,000 visitors annually.

“Not only will this be a major new tourist attraction for Western Sydney right on the doorstep to a new international airport it will be the first indoor snow resort and alpine winter attraction in Australia,’’ he said.

In the immediate and long-term, Winter Sports World would: Help Penrith Council meets its goal to double visitation and tourism revenue by 2025 Bolster Penrith as an attractive leisure and tourism destination Boost confidence in Western Sydney tourism and business Attract new ventures to the region Raise the profile of Penrith and Western Sydney domestically and globally Attract international elite snow and ice athletes and provide a training venue for nine Olympic sports (alpine skiing, freestyle skiing, snow board, figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating, curling with the possibility of also catering for cross country and biathlon) However, Mr Magnisalis wanted the development to be accessible and affordable to all.

While Australia had about 1 million regular skiers, of which about 700,000 were in Sydney, another 4.5 million people did not ski because they cannot access the snow, he said.

“It’s just too hard for them to go there or too expensive so they haven’t been introduced to it.

“I want people who have never skied to come here to learn. I want school and community groups to come here.

“We will have perfect snow under perfect skies all year round, and Winter Sports World will be the coolest place to hang out on those scorching fortydegree summer days in Penrith.’’

He envisaged that Winter Sports World would become a feeder to established outdoor ski fields like Thredbo and Perisher, rather than a competitor.

Mr Magnisalis began developing the idea for

Winter Sports World seven years ago and undertook extensive research with architect Tone Wheeler including visiting several snow centres around the world before finalising plans.

The carbon-neutral design of the development by renowned eco-friendly architecture practice Environa Studio would set new environmental building benchmarks with features such as most advanced technology for capturing and reuse of free heat, roof solar system for electrical energy needs, insulation systems, non-toxic cooling and roof water harvesting for snow making.

It would also attract visitors to Penrith to experience Australia’s freshest emerging tourist destination just 9km from the country’s newest international airport at Badgerys Creek, which was due to open in 2026.

“This is not a local thing. This is a national offering that will attract cashed-up elite sports people and leisure seekers from around the world,’’ Mr Magnisalis said.

“I’ve had people tell me that this project is overly ambitious. It is ambitious, but Penrith deserves it. It’s going to change the way people view Penrith.’’

Winter Sports World would strengthen Penrith’s tourism offering, particularly along the Riverlink precinct between activity attractions at Penrith Panthers and the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler, Mr Magnisalis said.

It would also help provide the “missing link’’ between Sydney Zoo and Raging Waters Sydney at Eastern Creek and Scenic World at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, he said.

“Located just off the motorway, Winter Sports World will give a reason for more people to stop and experience Penrith.

“It’s the happening location. It’s where the action and people are. That’s what gives us the confidence to invest $300m.’’

Construction would hopefully commence next year subject to planning approvals, with Winter Sports World expected to open in winter 2024.

Photos: David Hill, Deep Hill Media

local news

By Peter Chapman

T

he Mt Druitt Housing Commission area was just a few homes and empty streets when Shirley Chapman brought her family to Whalan.

A sign on Luxford Road said the area would one day be home to 100,000 people. Many scoffed at the idea, but true to the then government’s word the houses were built and more and more came to call the Druitt home.

It was a shock move for Shirley and the clan, which in all numbered eight. They had been renting in the well-to-do suburb of Willoughby for more than 20 years.

The kids changed from upper class schools such as North Sydney Boy’s High to Doonside and Rooty Hill.

The younger children became early students of Whalan Public School and son Michael was the school’s first captain.

While the kids were settling into their respective schools, Shirley became the goto person in neighbourhood for problem solving and even the odd cup of sugar or bottle of milk.

Many in the new suburb lived on the breadline and some even below it. Shirley worked in the school canteen and in later years at the local Op shop where she was more of a counsellor than a voluntary shop assistant.

Youngest son Donny is now well known in the district through his successful tow truck business “Chappo’s”.

I’m her eldest son, Peter, and I started my journalism career working on the inaugural edition of Mt Druitt’s first newspaper, The Western Star. The paper was opened to support the area’s big new Westfield Shopping Centre.

I later played grade football for Penrith.

At 88 years of age Shirley passed away recently and in a mark of respect more than 100 turned up at her memorial service at the Carousel Hotel. It was a fitting venue as Shirley had, along with her partner Ian, become regular attendees at the country and music nights there.

Now just Donny remains a local in Mt Druitt, the rest of the family have all moved away.

While we may have said farewell to Mt Druitt the memories of our mother and how she helped so many others in the tough early years of the fledgling housing commission area live on with us.

Helping a neighbour in need was her mantra and it’s a lesson we could all do well to adopt.

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Farewell to a good samaritan

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local news

Treasurer visit highlights focus on women in business

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

enrith business people united last week at the Getting Back to Business event held at Penrith Panthers.

The guest of honour was Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, and Nepean News was given the opportunity to speak with Treasurer directly, courtesy of our local member, Melissa McIntosh.

Prior to the event, Malama from Nepean News asked some local businesses what they would like to ask the treasurer and posed some of those questions to him.

The questions that came to Malama from the local business women were mostly about issues relating to women, such as how the budget would empower women and help the next generation of female business owners.

Mr Frydenberg spoke about the budget addressing women’s economic security, women’s safety and women’s health. The budget covers strength in retirement for women and support for getting women into non-traditional occupations.

There’ll be more breast cancer screening and treatment education awareness and a boost to women’s health initiatives and women’s leadership.

Melissa McIntosh MP said national policies were already having an effect on the ground with local companies hiring females as first year apprentices. An example was St Marys Manufacturing company, Baker and Provan employing two women as first year apprentices recently.

(L to R) Lindsay MP Melissa McIntosh, Malama Psarianos (Nepean News) and Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg MP

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

he state’s best and brightest volunteers will be recognised for their dedication and countless hours of community service as part of the 2021 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, with nominations now open.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Mark Speakman said the opening of nominations for the awards coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week – this year’s theme is Recognise. Reconnect. Reimagine.

“The past 12 months have highlighted the pivotal role volunteers play in shaping and supporting our local communities. Volunteer week is an opportunity to shine a light on those people who put service above self,” Mr Speakman said.

“Whether they are from your local sporting club, volunteer rescue association or community group, if you know a local hero who is helping make your community a better place every day, nominate them for this year’s Volunteer of the Year Awards.”

The awards, now in their 15th year and run by the Centre for Volunteering, recognised more than 118,000 Volunteers last year from across the state.

Volunteers can be nominated for one of eight categories, including: • Adult Volunteer of the Year; • Young Volunteer of the Year;

• Senior Volunteer of the Year; • Volunteer Team of the Year; • Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Individual); • Corporate Volunteer of the Year (Team); • Club Volunteer of the Year; and • Excellence in Volunteer Management.

The Centre for Volunteering CEO Gemma Rygate said the awards were a way to thank, recognise and celebrate the efforts of the state’s 2.4 million volunteers.

“The awards are a vital way for every one of us to say thank you for the invaluable contribution of our volunteers,” Ms Rygate said.

Nominations close on Friday, 9 July 2021. For more information, visit www.volunteering.com.au/volunteer-awards/

You’ll find volunteers everywhere across the Nepean region, with one example being at Nepean Hospital. They answer our questions, show us the way and make us feel supported. They greet us with a smile, have a laugh with us and sympathise during difficult times.

Werrington locals and husband and wife team Paul and Patricia Bullen joined Nepean Hospital volunteer team last year.

Never having volunteered before, Patricia woke up one morning and decided she wanted a change. During her interview “she volunteered me too,” says retiree Paul with a chuckle.

Paul is finding the work interesting and rewarding. He says “it feels good to allay peoples’ fears, relax them and provide some comfort in a complex place.”

Having just celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary, they were touched when their fellow volunteers decorated their base office to mark the occasion.

“We work with a lovely group of people,” said Patricia.

A surprising benefit is the extra exercise.

“Walking all over the hospital, we can clock up over 10,000 steps some days.” With a cheeky smile, Patricia adds “we make it a bit of a fun competition to see who can do the most steps for the day!”

To all our volunteers, you play a vital role in supporting our community and we thank you for your kind spirits and sharing your time all year round.

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Celebrating the state’s valuable volunteers

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local news

Dunheved Road upgrade on the horizon

T

he Penrith community is a step closer to seeing work start on the highly anticipated Dunheved Road Upgrade after the Ordinary Meeting of Penrith City Council endorsed the awarding of the tender for site investigation, concept and detailed design.

Following a competitive tender process, Cardno (NSW/ACT) Pty Ltd has been awarded the $1,737,314 (ex GST) tender for the initial stage of works.

With a $127 million commitment secured by Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, the Dunheved Road transformation is set to alleviate traffic and improve safety along the corridor, between Richmond Road and the Werrington Road/Christie St intersection.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM thanked Ms McIntosh and the Australian Government through its Urban Congestion Fund for responding to the community’s urgent need to have an integral part of the local road network improved.

“As our LGA grows so does the need for better transport infrastructure, so we can accommodate the community and business needs by making it easier to move around the City,” Cr McKeown said.

“Council has advocated for improvements to Dunheved Road as we experience higher traffic volumes and gridlock at various points along the road.

“Parents trying to get their children to school or sporting commitments, or residents racing against the clock to get to work are just some of the frustrations expressed by the community on a regular basis.”

“On behalf of Council and the community, I want to thank the Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, for actioning this desperate requirement for our City.

I am especially thankful for her

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work in achieving the full funding of the project and hearing residents’ concerns to get this major project underway.”

Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, said she is determined to see her election commitment to upgrade Dunheved Road get underway.

“With the support of our community, I worked hard to secure the full $127 million to upgrade Dunheved Road. We started with my community petition and have brought local families and business voices together to deliver this important upgrade,” Ms McIntosh said.

“For so many local businesses, this upgrade means new opportunities to get products and services across our community and beyond. For local people, it means spending less time in traffic and more time at home with your family.”

“Now, it’s about delivering the best outcomes for our community, easing congestion and improving safety, and this is an important step in the process.”

Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP said the Australian Government is investing around $4 billion through the Urban Congestion Fund, to reduce congestion in urban areas.

“Funding supports upgrades to the urban road network to reduce congestion and ensure commuters get home sooner and safer,” Minister Fletcher said.

“This project is expected to improve community access and contribute to safety and efficiency for road users in this area.”

With more than 12 months of work expected for the initial design phase, construction on the Dunheved Road Upgrade is anticipated to start in early 2023.

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he first-ever Australian Made Week kicked off this week and shoppers are being urged to say ‘g’day’ to one extra locally made or grown product per week to help boost the country’s economy over the next 12 months.

According to recent Roy Morgan research, if every household spent an additional $10 a week on Australian Made products, it would inject an extra $5 billion into the economy each year and create up to 11,000 new jobs.

Australian Made Chief Executive, Ben Lazzaro, said the purpose of Australian Made Week – which runs

some of the highest standards in craftsmanship, safety and quality.

Hopefully I can help encourage Australians to support their local communities and buy one more Australian Made product per week.”

Consumers can learn more about Australian Made Week and find genuine Aussie products at www.australianmadeweek.com.au

from Monday 24 May to Sunday 30 May – is to celebrate and support local makers and growers.

“It’s an opportunity to focus on the benefits of buying local and highlight that when you buy Australian Made, you have a direct economic impact on the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Australians throughout the supply chain,” he said.

“Even making a small change in your weekly shopping can create a huge difference for local businesses.”

Entrepreneur, model and Australian Made ambassador Elyse Knowles is

www.theroyce.com.au

calling on everyone to get involved in Australian Made Week by seeking out and buying genuine Aussie products bearing the trusted green-and-gold kangaroo logo.

“When you’re making purchases – whether it’s flowers, bedlinen, skincare or socks – go for Australian Made or Grown, and spread the word on your socials by posting about your buy with #AustralianMadeWeek,” Knowles said.

“There are so many high quality Australian products and we have an international reputation for having

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

This week celebrate buy Australian Made

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local news

Official opening of new St Clair Men’s Shed

By Noel Rowsell

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he St Clair Men’s Shed, ‘Cecil’s Place’, officially opened it’s new building on 19th May, with Mrs Tanya Davies BAppSc(Phty) MP, Member for Mulgoa, and Penrith City Council Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen in attendance.

The Men’s Shed initially commenced operations on 13 February 2013 at the Autumnleaf Neighbourhood Centre in Autumnleaf Parade St Clair, with 8 inaugural members. Established as a social group for retired men in the local area, the group held informal meetings and hosted a number guest speakers, mainly about men’s health and other men’s issues.

In December 2013 it was decided that a functioning men’s shed would help to increase membership, so a concrete slab was laid and a garden shed erected at the Autumnleaf Parade Neighbourhood Centre. This allowed acceptance of tool donations, which gave members an opportunity to work on some projects to benefit the local community. Unfortunately, the garden shed had limitations of storage space, accessibility and opportunities for bigger and more meaningful projects.

In August 2016, members held discussions with Catholic Care, part of the Catholic Diocese in Parramatta, about the possible use of some land on the Mamre House site to build a shed. In October 2016, Catholic Care advised that the group could move into a temporary building on their site, until they received approval to establish a permanent larger shed.

After fundraising efforts and donations from the Nepean Men’s Shed, Strathfield South High School and the local community, the group was able to equip their temporary shed with a range of hand and electrical tools.

In July 2017, local State MP, the Hon. Tanya Davies, accepted an offer to become the Shed’s patron.

The official opening of the St Clair Men’s Shed. Photos by Noel Rowsell

In February 2018 the group were notified they had received a grant from the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grants program to help start to build a new shed on the

Mamre House site.

In December 2018 the group received another grant from the NSW Government Community Building Partnership Grants program to help

build the new shed and a Development Application was submitted toPenrith City Council (PCC) to build the new shed on the Mamre House site.

Over the years, ‘Cecil’s Place’ and the St Clair and District Men’s Shed has assisted the local community by: • Building a stage for the Harold Wheen Pre-school.

• Made building block for Penrith NADO. • Renovation of two bench seats for Ripples Swimming Centre.

• Building ‘Buddy Benches’ for Emmaus Catholic College at Kemps Creek.

• Made toys for Domestic Violence Service Management.

• Made a Nativity Scene for Catholic Care Mamre House site.

• Built a “bus” for It’s a Small World Childcare Centre at Seven Hills.

• Built Myna bird traps for the Blacktown City Council.

Police files Investigation underway after teenager allegedly stabbed - Kingswood

An investigation is underway following an alleged stabbing in Kingswood on Wednesday night.

Just before 11pm on Wednesday 19 May, emergency services responded to reports of an injured person at a unit on Rodgers Street, Kingswood.

Upon arrival, officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command found a 17-year-old boy with a stab wound to his side.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene, before being airlifted to Westmead Hospital in a serious and unstable condition.

A crime scene was established, and an investigation commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As investigations continue, police urge anyone with information to contact Nepean Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Boy serious after cliff fall – Blue Mountains A teenager has been rescued from a cliff edge and remains in a serious condition following a fall in the Blue Mountains last weekend.

About 10.50am on Saturday 22 May, emergency services responded to reports a boy had fallen off a rock ledge at Mitchell’s Ridge Road lookout, Mt Victoria.

Officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command attended and found a 15-year-old boy with multiple injuries.

Police have been told the boy was with an organised group conducting adventure training.

Police Rescue, the NSW Ambulance Special Operations Unit and Rescue helicopter attended, and a coordinated rescue operation commenced with the teen safely extracted.

He was taken to Westmead Children’s Hospital and remains in a serious condition.

local news

By Noel Rowsell

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aureen Gildart, Media Officer for the Penrith City National Servicemen’s Association ANSA Inc (NASHO’s) has advised the organisation celebrated its 15year existence on Sunday 15th May at Victoria Park St Marys, holding a 15th Anniversary Memorial and Tribute Laying Ceremony.

Penrith City ANSA Incorporated received its charter and flag on 7th April 2002 and membership remains steady at 71. The event attracted a large turnout of people, which allowed members (Nasho’s) to overcome recent Covid restrictions and socialise.

The Ceremony commenced at 11.00am with the mounting of the Catafalque Party, performed by 323 Squadron Air Force Cadets Glenbrook.

The welcome address was performed by the President Mr Harry May and the Prayer of Remembrance read by Vice President Mr Ken McPherson.

Local Federal MP Melissa McIntosh gave an address and laid a wreath, Member for Londonderry Ms Prue

Members of the Penrith City National Servicemen’s Association at the 15th Anniversary Memorial and Tribute Laying Ceremony. (L to R) Ken McPherson, Roy Young, Angela Young, Harry May, Maureen Gildart, Graham Larkham. Photo supplied

Car gave a message of remembrance, Mr Stuart Ayres MP represented The Hon Marise Payne and Cr Bernard Bratusa represented the Member for Mulgoa Mrs Tanya Davies MP. The Mayor of Penrith, Councillor

Karen Mckeown OAM gave a prayer for peace, as well as unveiling the Memorial Park Bench in remembrance of Tom Kelly and Harry Morfoot. Mr Tony Fryer, President of St Marys RSL Sub-branch gave the prayer for

our Servicemen and women, whilst the secretary of Penrith Nasho’s Mr Graham Larkham gave the National Servicemen’s Ode, followed by Laurie Cody with the Ode of Remembrance.

This was followed by the last Post, the lowering of the flags by the Air Force Cadets and Reveille, performed by Tyler Watson of Nepean Performing Arts High School.

The Benediction was read by Vice President Mr Roy Young and the National Anthem by Eilna RobertsTurner of Nepean Performing Arts High school.

Penrith National Servicemen’s Association ( ANSA) Inc would like to acknowledge the following for their assistance for the successful Ceremony: Penrith City Council for the upgrade and maintenance of the Memorial; Mr Jim Aiken and Partners; Blue mountains 323 Squadron Air Cadets Glenbrook; Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School; Emu Plains Tony Coppini and his group of volunteers and most importantly Executive the committee of Penrith Nasho’s, who have worked hard on this project since February in order to make Sunday’s ceremony a success.

Celebrating 100 Years of Rotary in Australia

By Noel Rowsell

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or 100 years, the volunteer charitable organisation of Rotary International has been committed to helping those in need in every community in Australia. Since the founding of the first Rotary Club, The Rotary Club of Melbourne, on April 21st 1921, the organisation has grown to over 1,100 clubs and 38,000 members in Australia alone. (There are over 1,200,000 members worldwide in more than 200 countries.) These members are committed to working tirelessly for the good of others.

Founded in Chicago in 1905 by businessman Paul Harris, Rotary was brought to Australia by two Canadians, James Davidson and Layton Ralston.

Sir John Monash, a war hero of Australia, took on the first Charter and the Melbourne Club was formed.

Sir John was its second President. The Rotary Club of Sydney was formed in May 1921.

Since its inception, Rotary grew rapidly, spreading across the country through cities and towns, fuelled by the willingness of volunteers who saw the need and benefit of helping others while building friendships and networks.

Rotary International President, Holger Knaack, said “We are all brought together in three important ways. We believe in Rotary values and all share the same code of ethics

- the Four Way Test. We believe in friendships and spending time together.

And we take great satisfaction in helping others - we are committed to service. And every club and club member works hard to this end.”

In 100 years, Australian Rotary has achieved extraordinary things. There have been several Australians who have become Rotary International President, showing a high level of commitment and calibre. One of these was Sir Clem Renouf who, because of the worldwide polio pandemic, committed Rotary to a campaign of immunisation for every child, with

the blessing of the World Health Organisation. From that beginning the wild polio virus is almost entirely eliminated, with a tiny pocket of some 20 cases in Northern Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Rotary Australia is also involved in trying to eliminate malaria and is helping with Covid 19 putting large funds into research and development.

Rotary Australia is celebrating this milestone in its history by planting trees. The three Rotary clubs in Penrith (Penrith, Penrith Valley, Nepean) are planting 100 trees, one for each year, with milestone markers in between.

A relay of a torch is also happening, moving across many parts of Australia.

Memory posts are being installed and other activities are occurring around the Rotary Districts.

Rotary is a great organisation of volunteers committed to the service to others and invites like-minded people to join them and make a difference, just as Rotary members have done for the past 100 years.

The Hon. (Rob) Robert Gordon Stokes MP, the member for Pittwater and the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, joined with local dignitaries including Penrith City Mayor Karen McKeown OAM, Rotary District Governor David Clark members of the public and members of the three local Rotary clubs to plant the first 4 trees in Ironbark Reserve, Cranebrook on Tuesday 25th May. Commemorative plaques for outstanding achievements by Rotary will also subsequently be located alongside the respective tree representing that year.

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15th Anniversary & Tribute Ceremony

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local news

Children’s playground for the community of St Marys

By Noel Rowsell

W

ith 60 percent of construction of the St Marys Freight Hub in the heart of Western Sydney complete, Pacific National and ACFS Port Logistics have made a joint donation of $60,000 for a new community children’s playground at St Mary Magdalene Anglican Church.

Member for Londonderry Ms Prue Car MP was guest of honour at the donation ceremony. The new church playground will be open for all the community to enjoy with the outdoor facility including soft-fall flooring and sensory play equipment.

Pacific National CEO Paul Scurrah acknowledged the importance of ongoing support from community and local business groups towards the development of St Marys Freight Hub. “Community and business groups are excited how the freight hub will allow people to live and work in the region, leading to more time spent with family and pursuing local activities, as opposed to a return commute of 130 kilometres each day between Western Sydney and Port Botany. “Eighty on-site jobs have been generated since construction commenced in November last year, while in the future local businesses and trades will benefit from increased commercial activity associated with the new freight hub,” he said. Once fully operational, St Marys Freight Hub will take up to 80,000 truck trips off Sydney’s congested motorways and roads each year, while 175 skilled jobs will be created in Western Sydney, as part of a combined investment value of up to $100m between Pacific National and ACFS Port Logistics. The freight hub allows up to 300,000 shipping containers filled with a variety of essential goods and commodities to be hauled by rail from Port Botany to St Marys each year.

Mr Scurrah said a central tenet shared by both Pacific National

The dignitaries & guests at St Mary Magdalene Anglican Church. Photos by Noel Rowsell

The presentation of the cheque

and ACFS Port Logistics is to be closely connected and involved with the communities in which the businesses operate. “St Marys Freight Hub is more than just a site for our two companies to conduct freight and logistics operations – it will help attract, anchor and grow commercial enterprises and related job opportunities in the district and wider region for decades to come,” he said. Pacific National has partnered with Australia’s largest privately owned container logistics operator, ACFS Port Logistics, which will manage and operate the St Marys Freight Hub. ACFS will also deliver shipping containers the ‘last mile’ by truck to retail and wholesale customers at surrounding warehouses and distribution centres in Western Sydney. ACFS Port Logistics Chairman Terry Tzaneros said St

Marys Freight Hub was ideally located to process large volumes of containerised freight, with many of Australia’s major retailers and wholesalers operating national warehousing and distribution centres within a 15-kilometre radius of the new intermodal facility “There are enormous opportunities to unlock the full potential of St Marys Freight Hub with future development allowing unpacking of containers onsite, storage of goods and then rapid distribution for B2B and e-Commerce. The logistics opportunities are unparalleled in Western Sydney,” he said.

Mr Tzaneros said the strategically located 43-hectare freight hub – initially 10-hectares in size – will increase reliability and cost efficiency of freight movements for ACFS customers. It is located outside of

Sydney’s road toll zone and will help ensure freight deliveries are not delayed in traffic congestion on the city’s motorways and roads. “Contents of shipping containers include everything from fresh, refrigerated and tinned food, groceries, medical and pharmaceutical supplies, building products, and household items like whitegoods, electronics and furniture,” he said.

The historic church St Mary Magdalene, which is located at Magdalene Street, St Marys, is built on land given by the family of Phillip Gidley King (the third governor of the Colony), using bricks made from clay taken from Dunheved, the family property on South Creek.

The clay quarry and the King homestead are near to where the proposed Pacific National Freight Hub is to be built.

The locality and village of South Creek was eventually re-named St Marys, after the church name.

The church building was completed and consecrated by Bishop Broughton in 1840 and is still in use.

A small hall used for Sunday School and public meetings was built beside the church about 1870.

However, a few years ago it became unusable after extensive termite damage.

Extensive restoration work, mostly through voluntary labour and public donations, has restored the hall and its use by the community.

Local Students recognised at Youth Awards Night The Rotary Club of Nepean hosted its Annual Youth Awards Night at the Penrith RSL Club on Tuesday, May 25.

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

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

The six recipients were: • Tiana Harrison – Jamison High School • Lara Roser – Caroline Chisholm College • Keeleigh Stephenson – Cambridge Park High School

• Flynn Cole – St Dominics College • Jack Prendergast – Penola Catholic College • Gabrielle Cant – Penrith Selective High School

The evening highlighted many of the Youth Programs run by The Rotary Club of Nepean such as RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment), RYDA (Rotary Youth Driver Awareness), NYSF (National Youth Science Forum) as well as hosting West Wyalong students for one week every year for Work Experience and also sending 10-12 students from the Penrith area to West Wyalong to experience life in a country area for one week.

If anyone would like to find out more about the great things that are achieved by The Rotary Club of Nepean, please contact Aaron Tyers on 0418 226 679 or Frank Portelli on 0419 410 831. The Club meets on Friday mornings – 7am to 8.30am alternately at the Penrith RSL and via Zoom and are always looking for new members to help with these great projects.

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69-year-old Penrith local has credited TAFE NSW with helping her to explore her life-long passion for visual arts, after retiring from a decades-long, high-flying career, which included a stint at The Pentagon.

A few years ago, Annie Wilcox retired from her corporate job and relocated to Sydney to be closer to family and pursue her creative interests, including photography, ceramics, and printmaking.

Ms Wilcox is currently studying an Advanced Diploma in Visual Arts at TAFE NSW Kingswood, and was recently awarded first place in the Student Category of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography’s (AIPP) Silver Lining Awards.

“I’ve always been interested in studying visual arts, but I never had the spare time while working in a demanding role. When I retired, I jumped at the opportunity to learn new skills and pursue my passions at TAFE NSW,” Ms Wilcox said.

“While it was goal of mine to enter the AIPP awards, I never in my wildest dreams expected to win.

The message I wanted to convey in my work was drudgery. The solid iron, harsh Australian landscape and mountains of laundry exert power over the woman, highlighting gender biases.

“The entire process has helped me overcome my fear of exposing myself through my art and opening myself up to peer critiques, and I’ve really

enjoyed pushing myself and learning new things within a group of likeminded individuals at TAFE NSW.” TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Visual Arts, Cath Barcan, said Ms Wilcox was a prime example of the opportunities TAFE NSW provides those looking to develop their creative skills.

“The Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts provides students, like Annie, with the wide-ranging, highlyspecialised skills they need to plan,

develop, and exhibit a body of work which expresses their creative flair,” Ms Barcan said.

“Through theory and practical course work, TAFE NSW students learn how to research and apply artistic concepts, engage in critical discourse, and use industry specific tools and materials to realise their vision.”

To find out more about the creative courses on offer at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Volunteers rally despite covid challenges

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andcare and bushcare volunteers in the Penrith area have continued to rally for the local environment despite the challenges brought on by COVID-19.

A Greater Sydney Local Land Services survey has found volunteers groups contributed more than 2,957 hours of environmental service in the 2019/20 financial year.

Greater Sydney Regional Landcare Coordinator Madeleine Florin said the work equated to around $119,194 worth of conservation efforts to protect and restore the area’s natural environment.

“The Penrith area is home to 14 groups comprised of more than 180 regular and casual volunteers carrying out activities including bush regeneration, tree planting, community education and advocacy work,” she said. “Local groups including Mulgoa Valley Landcare who are working to restore a key vegetation corridor along Mulgoa Creek.

“This work aims to save plant and animal species with much of the local vegetation being critically endangered.”

Ms Florin said across Greater Sydney 1000 groups engaged in bushcare or landcare activities, with 8850 regular volunteers and 4700 one-off volunteers, contributing more than 150,000 hours of environmental work.

“This equates to an incredible $6.3 million in in-kind labour costs which is a truly remarkable achievement given the lockdown and impact of COVID-19 in 2020 which we estimate reduced the total number of volunteer work by about 50,000,” she said.

“Overall the number of active volunteers increased by 13 percent compared to the last survey

in 2017/8 and there was a 20 per cent increase in hours contributed.”

Ms Florin said landcare and bushcare volunteers were integral to the protection and maintenance of our unique natural environment.

“They are very much the unsung heroes of our natural environment, working quietly behind the scenes purely for the love and passion for what they do,” she said.

GS LLS provided $220,814 to landcare and bushcare groups, supporting them to continue work restoring and maintaining environmental assets.

Funding was provided to the groups via the NSW Landcare Program, the NSW Environment Trust Every Bit Counts Program, Catchment Action NSW and the National Landcare Program.

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

No rest for this retiree: How Annie became an award-winning photography student at 69

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local news

New Live, Work, Play Grid comes to life in Kingswood

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enrith City Council’s new 1.2km walking grid in Kingswood is coming to life thanks to support from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s “Places to Love” program.

The Live, Work, Play Grid in Kingswood starts in Wainwright Park and encourages local residents, students and workers to walk the 1.2km loop and discover new temporary elements and activations along the way.

The project is about testing low-cost, high impact interventions such as pilots, pop-ups, short-term treatments and semi-permanent changes to see how they support walkability and activation in the heart of Kingswood.

These interventions seek to improve walkable access to, and the amenity of, public space. Project outcomes can be used to guide future initiatives or permanent changes.

The improvements have been co-designed by local women who joined Penrith City Council in September 2020 on a Night Walk to share their experiences and ideas.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM praised the involvement of local women in the co-design of public space improvements and said it helped make places feel better for everyone.

“The Live, Work, Play Grid project is exciting as Council has asked local women to share their experiences and invited their ideas for what would improve the streets and public spaces in Kingswood,” Cr McKeown said.

“Council recognises the importance of including local voices in public space improvements, and we

are thrilled with the results of the Live, Work, Play Grid.

“The project is about testing some temporary interventions that make Kingswood feel more inviting for everyone,” she continued.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government’s Places to Love program was helping councils such as Penrith City Council to find opportunities to innovate and reimagine public spaces.

“We’re working with councils across Sydney and in regional NSW to create and test innovative projects that bring local public spaces to life,” Mr Stokes said.

“The council’s Live, Work, Play Grid in Kingswood has created a more vibrant neighbourhood with a connected pedestrian walking loop that includes garden beds, artistic lighting and seating to help bring the community together.”

Places to Love is a collaboration between the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and pilot councils across NSW. Once complete, each project will develop a detailed case study that will be shared in the Great Public Spaces Toolkit.

Council’s project aligns with the THINK BOLD Kingswood Place Plan developed in consultation with local residents and stakeholders and seeks to increase vibrancy and vitality in Kingswood’s core.

A number of exciting activations and activities are planned for Kingswood along the grid. These include planting workshops, twilight picnics, a pop-up lunchroom and an outdoor movie night.

For more information about the project and planned activations, please visit www.yoursaypenrith.com. au/project/liveworkplaykingswood

Unveiling of Memorial Bench

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enrith City Mayor Karen McKeown OAM unveiled a bench seat on Sunday in Victoria Park, St Marys, in memory of Tom Kelly and Harry Morfoot, two former members of the Penrith City National Servicemen’s Association ANSA Inc. Harry and Tom were both charter members of the Penrith Sub-branch of the NSW National Servicemen’s Association & Affiliates (NSAA) in 2002, which changed it’s name to the Penrith City Australian National Servicemen’s Association in 2012.

Tom held the roles of Quartermaster, Vice President and President of

President Harry May and past President John Taylor enjoy the new bench

Penrith City Mayor Karen McKeown OAM unveiling the new bench on Sunday.

Photos supplied

the Blue Mts Sub-branch, then Quartermaster, Social Convenor, Membership Officer and Treasurer for the Penrith Sub-branch.

Harry was President of the Penrith Sub-branch for 12 years, a recipient of the National Police Medal and in 2015 a Local Achievement Award for the Mulgoa electorate during NSW Seniors Week.

Both Tom and Harry were Life Members of the State Branch of the NSAA.

New fire safety education program keeps kids safe Children in NSW will be better educated about fire safety and prevention, with the introduction of Fire and Rescue NSW’s updated fire safety programs.

The programs, which are designed to reduce the risk of fire to children aged between 3 and 10 years have been reviewed and supported by the NSW Department of Education.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said he was pleased the programs will be introduced to children during the period they are most at risk.

“Education is the first line of defence against firerelated injuries and fatalities in children,” Mr Elliott said “Children often have limited knowledge about fire risks and the updated education program will help them avoid starting a fire and teach them the best

way to stay safe if one occurs.”

The updated programs consist of four sessions: 1. A session delivered by a firefighter to teach children important skills in burns first aid; 2. School fire evacuation drill; 3. Home Fire Escape Planning; and 4. How to identify fire hazards in the home.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the new program would be a fantastic resource for teachers.

“Giving children an understanding of how to stay safe and avoid fire risks from a young age is crucial to keeping them safe,” Ms Mitchell said.

“The updated fire lessons have been developed in consultation with the NSW Department of Education, to ensure the best learning outcomes for children who participate.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Assistant Commissioner

Trent Curtin said children are one of the most at-risk groups when it came to the risk of fire, with FRNSW responding to over 8,000 fires caused by children and 12 child fire fatalities in the last five years.

“Fire safety education not only prevents fire, it improves responses to fires and empowers children by providing them with the capacity to make informed decisions, enhancing resilience,” Assistant Commissioner Curtin said.

“These sessions have been designed on the back of extensive evidence based research by professionals and we believe they will go a long way in reducing misuse of fire, fire related injuries and fatalities in children.

To book a fire safety education program at your school, visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au/education

local news

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n Saturday 22 May, Orchard Hills Rural Fire Brigade celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the brigade. Among the invited guests were Stuart Ayres MP, Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie, Superintendent Angelo Baldo AFSM, Deputy Mayor Tricia Hitchen, Councillor Brian Cartwright, and RFS Chaplin Phil Hanbury.

They also had Founding Members and Life Members attending.

Awards were presented to: - National Medal for service 20 years DC Jason Davis - National Medal for service 27 years SDC Matt Webb

- RFS Long service medal 20 years service FF Trent Simpson - RFS Long service medal 20 years service Bill Lovell There was also a special presentation to Bill Lovell on his retirement from the Rural Fire Service.

Deputy Commisioner McKechnie also presented Captain Chris Mallia a plaque for the brigade recognising 50 years of service.

The brigade would like to congratulate all award recipients and thank all the guests for attending the event.

A link to the YouTube video that was shown can be found here https:// youtu.be/1y9UJHV2aJg

Deputy Commisioner Peter McKechnie presenting 50th Anniversary plaque to Captain Chris Mallia

National Medal recipient DC Jason Davis Founding members

National Medal recipient SDC Matt Webb

Life members

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

RFS long service medal FF Trent Simpson

Photos: FF Lachlan Schwartzkoff RFS long service medal recipient Bill Lovell

Superintendent Angelo Baldo AFSM

MC DC Jason Davis

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50 year milestone for Orchard Hills Rural Fire Brigade

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Legends of the Nepean Tomas Hamilton

By Noel Rowsell

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Tomas & Betty Hamilton 1969

o mas Hamilton is a poet and composer of rare talent and his work is keenly sought for Anzac Day and other Remembrance Day events throughout Australia.

Dubbed their unofficial ‘poet laureate’ by several RSL Sub-branches, Tomas was born in Dublin, Ireland and came to Australia as an infant with his parents in the early 1950’s.

Whilst his parents claimed the trip was just for a ‘bit of a look’ Tomas did not make it back to the “ould sod” (Ireland) until 1990. He grew up in various country towns in the Hunter Valley, in the days when ‘the parishes were run by Irish priests’, so it was easy to embrace the Aussie way of life but still be regarded as an Irishman by his mates.

Having his grandfather William Hamilton involved in WW1, also one of the pioneers of Irish Aviation and a member of the Irish National Flying

Club, it seemed Tomas was always destined to join the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

Signing up at 17, Tomas would spend the next 21 years in the Service, during which his love of aircraft blossomed.

Tomas has an outstanding collection of over 1,200 model planes, including his first-ever model, a Thunderceptor from 1956.

His knowledge of aircraft type, design and signature shape is extensive and he has frequently been the official spotter at War Games, identifying incoming aircraft to determine friend or foe.

Tomas was a product of the 60’s folk scene, where he purchased his first guitar and began visiting folk clubs near the bases where he was stationed.

Tomas met wife Betty at a Nurse Dance in Maitland in 1967 and two years later, they were married in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Campbells Hill.

Tomas was posted while the couple were on their honeymoon.

After 5 children (Catherine,

Tomas Hamilton was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.

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

Photos: Supplied by Tomas Hamilton Tomas & Betty Hamilton

Ryan, Fiona, Conor and Eamon), 9 grandchildren and 52 years of marriage, Tomas claims the learning curve goes vertical.

After his service in the RAAF, Tomas moved on and spent 17 years as a Sheriff, then worked in Garrison Support at RAAF Richmond.

He started serious song-writing in 1996, after the army Blackhawk tragedy and the Boeing 707 crash, the latter claiming the life of a close friend.

Tomas had the honour of performing songs he had written, at both services, for those lost in those tragedies and in 1997, released a tape of 8 songs, all self compositions, on an album titled ‘Remembrance’.

It was about this time Tom started a monthly Irish session in the Hawkesbury and it has now grown into a weekly gathering, when Covid restrictions allow. A new tape ‘Shamrocks and Wattle’ followed in 1998 and ‘Barbwire and Bullshit’ in 2000. Tom’s ballad ‘The Long Tan

Senator Marise Payne & Tomas Hamilton

Hymn’ has been used throughout the Hawkesbury on Vietnam Veterans Day, since he wrote it in 1999.

His poem ‘Magpie 91’, dedicated to Mike Herbert and Robert Carver, the last two Australian ‘Missing in Action’ (MIAs) to be returned to Australia, has been used in the national press and radio, as well as vice-regal commemorative services.

In 2004, under friendly pressure from fellow musicians, Tomas put down his first CD titled ‘Further down the Track’ and re-released ‘Barbwire’ as a CD. After writing ‘Sydney in the Rain’ and following encouragement from fellow “muso’s” he released yet another CD of self compositions titled “Hamilton’s 5th’ in November, 2006.

In 2007 while on a visit to England, Tom popped over to Dublin for a week and did several gigs, the highlight of which was performing at Darky Kelly’s in Dublin on Easter Sunday and Ned O’Shea’s Merchant the following week.

Tomas Hamilton performing

Before Tomas left for Dublin, his mother remarked that he had never written a Dublin song. Thus inspired, while waiting to fly out from Dublin, Tomas wrote ‘The Grey Walls of Glasnevin’ (Glasnevin is the main cemetery in Dublin) and ten months later, he would play it at his mother’s funeral. In 2009 Tom released his sixth album ‘Glasnevin’s Grey Walls’.

The album contains 14 tracks of self compositions, which reflect his Irish heritage and experiences in life After having many of his songs published as poems, Tomas released a CD of his award-winning poetry in August 2010 titled ‘Dust’. (It was nominated as a finalist in the Australian Bush Laureate Awards for best album for 2011), which was followed two years later by another CD title ‘The Gift’. Tracks and poems from ‘Dust’ have been heard on radio programs both here and overseas. ‘Magpie 91’ is also featured in Ian McNamara’s (Macca

on a Sunday morning) latest book.

Although Tomas is not a Vietnam Veteran, the concluding track on Dust was reviewed as “the one that does it for me” on a US Vietnam Veterans website. This CD has seen Tomas invited to poetry festivals and performances throughout the state and he released his second poetry album in 2012, titled ‘The Gift’. Tomas also appears as St. Patrick at the John O’Brien Festival in Narrandera.

In 2012 Tomas returned to Ireland and performed at numerous venues, including O’Donoghues, the spiritual home for such icons as Christy Moore and The Dubliners. Tomas is a regular performer at music, bush poetry festivals and folk clubs around Australia and has also performed in Europe and North America.

Contact Magazine (CONTACT magazine - Australia’s best free military news site (contactairlandandsea.com) is a strong supporter of Tomas’ poetry, publishing 40 of his poems since September, 2020.

Tomas has been a Hawkesbury resident since 1981 and is heavily involved throughout the Nepean district through his outstanding poetry and music.

Always Tanker 134 Tread Gently

By TOMAS HAMILTON

By TOMAS HAMILTON

Three heroes left to do their job, three did not return Every task cheating death, peril at every turn Experience their master, flown with upmost care Passing through the gates of hell, where most others did not dare

Tread gently on this foreign field, for it lies soaked in blood That flowed across this battlefield, a tragic crimson flood The names of those who fell near here, are muttered now by few A brave and selfless sacrifice, the living would all rue

They rose into the hostile sky, of gale and smoke and dust The high noon of their destiny, the wind’s deadly gust Staring down nature’s wrath, they had done it all before No time for complacency, in a fire storm’s war

Tread gently on this foreign field, I am every mother’s son Who saw my face at every dawn and each setting sun She kept her lonely vigil, till eternity claimed her soul Her tears no longer wash my name, upon an honour roll

No one will ever know, the loss their families feel For sadly that for many, some wounds never heal A scar upon the bushland, a reminder of their plight A place down by the snowy, now a sacred site The flag upon a casket, a tribute well deserved Taps, a sad reminder, of the nation they had served The eagle and the kangaroo, will pause to shed a tear A century of mateship, with those we hold so dear Three heroes left to do their job, three did not return Many miles across the sea, loving hearts will yearn Three heroes left to do their job and mounted heaven’s stairs Three heroes left to do their job, “always” in our prayers Title “always “ from the film of the same name ‘ALWAYS’ was written after the loss of firefighter tanker 134 south of Cooma on 23JAN last year, taking the lives of retired or Reserve American Servicemen Lt Col Ian McBeth, Lt Col Paul Hudson and MSgt Rick De Morgan.

Tread gently on this foreign field and dare not caste your scorn On all that I could have been and descendants now unborn For we all charged like Lemmings, for country and for crown And in the flower of our youth, we were all cut down Tread gently on this foreign field and remember all those lost Their legend, part of history that came at too great a cost For the horse that stands unbridled and an empty chair at home Memories of the loved ones, who lie beneath this loam Tread gently on this foreign field, the wretched path I trod Now I lie without a name , that is known only to God A farmer’ plough may strike my bones and I might find a grave But weep you not for my past, it’s your future you must save ‘TREAD GENTLY’ was written after a group of members from St Marys RSL sub–branch toured World War One graves on the Western Front a few years ago.

Back To Business

Guests attending the Getting Back to Business Luncheon were joined by Treasurer Josh Frydenberg MP for a special 2021 Federal Budget address. Melissa McIntosh MP and Craig James, CommSec Chief Economist were also among the speakers.

Held at Panthers last week, the event was sponsored by the CBA, Western Sydney Business Centre, Penrith CBD Corporation and Panthers Penrith. Photos: Rocknbob Media House

Social Butterfly

local news

M

embers of the public in the 40 to 49-year-old category have begun to receive the Pfizer vaccine after they were invited to book an appointment.

More than 16,000 people aged 40 to 49 have been contacted to make an appointment at Sydney Olympic Park after they registered their interest to receive the Pfizer vaccine.

A further 1,000 people in this age group from the Blacktown LGA who registered their interest have also been contacted encouraging them to book an appointment at the Blacktown Hospital vaccination clinic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said it was great to see 9,000 people in this group had already made a booking to receive their jab.

“The vaccine rollout is key if we want to open up our borders and live a normal life, that is why we are working hard to rollout the vaccine as quickly and as safely as possible,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“I’m encouraging everyone in NSW aged 40-49 to register their interest to receive the Pfizer vaccine as soon as possible”.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said there would be additional Pfizer

clinics available to receive bookings for registered 40-49-year-olds in the coming weeks including in regional and rural areas.

“I encourage all who are eligible to get a vaccination as soon as possible

as getting the jab builds our line of defence against this extremely dangerous virus,” Mr Hazzard said.

People aged 40-49 can register for the Pfizer vaccine here: nsw.gov.au/ People will be contacted when a booking is available.

People aged over 50 can book their AstraZeneca jab at the mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park, if they are unable to obtain the vaccination from their GP. Bookings are available here: covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov. au/eligibility.

Additional NSW Health AstraZeneca clinics will be available for bookings for people over 50 years of age from 24 May. In addition, there are around 1,500 GP practices across NSW taking bookings for over 50s to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine.

More than 900,000 people have been vaccinated in NSW through NSW Health and the GP network and other providers, more than any other state.

Mass vaccination centre now administering astrazeneca vaccine The mass vaccination centre at Sydney Olympic Park has started to administer the AstraZeneca vaccine, providing a major boost to the vaccine rollout in NSW as the state surges past a million people protected.

The mass vaccination centre joins the other 26 NSW Health hubs that are giving the AstraZeneca vaccine to over 50s, including 17 in regional and rural NSW. There are also more than 100 outreach locations that NSW Health vaccination clinics visit, primarily

in rural and regional communities, to ensure people in these locations have access to a COVID-19 vaccination.

To date around 1,100 people are already booked in to receive the AstraZeneca jab at Sydney Olympic Park this week, complementing the thousands set to receive it from GPs or one of the many NSW Health sites that administer AstraZeneca.

Last week NSW GPs delivered more than 85,000 AstraZeneca jabs.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said

more than 1 million COVID-19 vaccines have now been administered across the state, including 345,393 by NSW Health and 745,379 by GPs and related providers.

“It is important anyone over 50 contact their GP in the first instance for their COVID-19 vaccine,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“It is critical to vaccinate our citizens as quickly and as safely as possible.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said we cannot be complacent when it

comes to getting the vaccine.

“We have seen the resurgence of this deadly virus in countries like Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea which, like us, appeared to have suppressed community spread,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Complacency can kill. If and when an outbreak occurs in NSW, the rush to get vaccinated will be great, so as soon as you are eligible we urge you to get vaccinated.”

To book a vaccine and for more information go to: nsw.gov.au/

Westmead health precinct funded $3 million to step up fight against antibiotic resistant infections

T

hree million dollars from the NSW Government, Federal Government and industry partners will now go towards establishing “Phage Australia” at the Westmead Health Precinct to step up the fight against antibiotic resistant infections.

The Federal Government announced in the Budget it would invest $1 million on top of the NSW Government’s previous commitment of $1.15 million along with additional funds from industry partners.

It’s estimated that by 2050, antibiotic resistant infections are projected to become the leading cause of death worldwide resulting in approximately 10 million deaths annually.

Bacteriophages – also known as phages – are viruses that prey on bacteria and remain completely effective against antibiotic resistant bacterial strains. They offer a last

defence against otherwise untreatable infection.

Professor Jon Iredell, Director of the Centre for Infectious Disease and Microbiology at Westmead Hospital

and Director of The Westmead Institute for Medical Research (WIMR) Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology says phage therapy could provide the answer to addressing the rapidly emerging threat to global health of antibiotic resistance.

“Antibiotic resistance is a huge threat to our health system. Without effective treatment against infections, doctors wouldn’t be able to perform life-saving treatments such as transplants or cancer therapy,” Professor Iredell said.

Phage Australia will focus on the rapid translation of phage therapeutics into clinical practice and explore how phage therapy can be ‘supercharged’ using cutting edge technology.

“Phages are everywhere in nature and there is a more than a century of safety data, but they have been difficult to harness for treatment,” Professor Iredell said.

“Now is the time to be finding safe treatments for serious infections.

Phage therapy is both our last resort for antibiotic resistance now and our best hope for the future.”

Phage Australia will be led

by Professor Jon Iredell. He is supported by two Deputy Directors – WIMR’s Associate Professor Ruby Lin (Science/ Biotechnology) and Dr Ameneh Khatami (Clinical/Therapeutics/ Trials) from the Children’s Hospital Westmead.

Westmead Health Precinct is one of the largest health, education, research and training precincts in Australia, employing more than 18,000 people across the biomedical, health and life sciences fields. It is being delivered in partnership between Health Infrastructure, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney Children’s Hospital Network and the University of Sydney.

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Nsw health begins to vaccinate 40-49 year olds

23

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

26

local COLUMNIST

Mental health problems in pets A

responsible pet owner knows all about their fur baby’s health and wellbeing. We make sure that they have enough food and water, provide them with a comfortable bed and to take them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. But have you ever thought about your pets’ mental health and what goes on inside your furry friend’s brain? In stressful situations, our pets are often telling us how they feel through their body language, but too often we miss the signs.

Fearful and anxious behaviour can be easily misunderstood - Fear can be a normal behavioural response and the instinctive feeling of worry that results from a variety of stimuli. Fear in pets can result from being scared or threatened by a person, object, or the surrounding environment (thunderstorms and fireworks). Animals who are afraid will usually try to get away from what is making them uncomfortable.

They will do this by physically moving away, or displaying body language to indicate they are uncomfortable and would like you to move out of their personal space.

Fearful behaviours can typically be categorised into the following groups, known as the 4F’s:

Fiddle: A pet will display uncertainty and internal conflict and involves behaviours, which are normal behaviours displayed out of context. These include yawning, lip licking and ground sniffing.

Freeze: Pets will often freeze and shut down in times of stress. Their body will become rigid and stiff and can often be seen before an animal acts upon the situation.

Flight: A frightened pet will often ‘take flight’ and physically remove itself from the stressful situation.

Fight: When an animal believes that it has no other alternative, it may act aggressively with

threatening behaviours such as growling, baring teeth, lunging and biting.

Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise: Being a responsible pet owner means making sure your pet has enough mental stimulation to see them through the day. Examples of enrichment include kong toys, puzzles, pools and digging pits. Regular training is also another wonderful way to stimulate your pet.

The guilty look: Have you ever come home to see your dog with the guilty look: head lowered, ears down, not making eye contact or eyes widened and whites showing (whale eyes), even yawning or licking their lips? Believe it or not, this look of guilt is actually fear. They are reacting to their owner’s cues about the situation (raised voice, yelling, pointing, waving arms) or are displaying a learned behaviour from previous punishment.

If your dog is regularly displaying any of these behaviours in a number of different situations, we would recommend contacting our team or a pet behaviour specialist who uses positive, rewardsbased training. The staff at Greencross Vets Coreen Ave will be able to assist you with your needs and offer you practical tips and advice.

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

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

F

riends of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of

these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

CAN STORM ENJOY CUDDLES GORGEOUS JAFFA IS WITH YOUR FAMILY? LOOKING FOR A HOME

SALLY NEEDS A QUITE HOME TO LET HER SETTLE IN

Storm is just a lovely big cuddle bug who will do anything for affection. We have been informed that Storm has been raised with children and has lived with a male dog. Storm is not a fan of cats though.

So if you have been looking for a placid Staffy to be apart of your family please come to the shelter with the children and your dog to meet Storm, she is already desexed so she will be able to leave the shelter with you.

Sally is still a little shy at this stage she would be best suited in a quiet home which will allow her the time she needs to gain her confidence. If you feel you can give Sally a quiet relaxed home please come to the shelter to meet her.

Jaffa is a sweet mature boy who just loves to be with people, while he has been with us Jaffa has gotten on well with the other male cats. If you have been looking for a sweet relaxed mature cat to keep you company please come to the shelter to meet Jaffa.

Jaffa is already desexed so he is able to leave the shelter with you.

Cost: $244.55 Age: 5 years Type: Dog Sex: Female

Cost: $107.60 Age: 9 years Type: Cat Breed: DOMESTIC SHORT HAIR Sex: Male

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, and 1st Vaccination. R251000145

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration and 1st Vaccination. R251000145

Cost: $159.50 Age: 6 years Type: Cat Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Female All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

ENTERTAINMENT

Well folks, over the seven and a bit years that you have been getting into and really enjoying my Gspot, you have been able to gain a slight insight into me.

For example, I can’t stand boneheads! Now, please do not be perturbed because the bonehead can come in many shapes and sizes, ages, race, sex and creed.

I do not discriminate; when I spot a bonehead, I spot a bonehead. Simple!

Once I have done this my friends, you can say that you have joined the hall of fame and been…. bonified!

The next is my hate for shopping, particularly when you are married to a label reader. I would rather stick a fork in my eye or ride a porcupine without a saddle!

I am the type of person who could get a speeding ticket in a supermarket aisle and take out three families with my trolley doing a two-wheeler out of aisle 2 and into 3.

God help anyone standing near the milk fridge.

However, my wonderful hubby will stand there and say, “you want this one or this one?” “This one or this one? This one or this one?” raising

and lowering two different types of canned beans.

By this time I am ready to do the Bruce Lee nunchuck with a split round kick, screaming “Just frigging buy both!”

This is a man that will drive from Penrith to Wollongong because the petrol is 2 cents a litre cheaper and it’s a bargain……sigh, get the picture?

Then next is NRS, yep you got it folks, US… Nepean Regional Security is a multi-award winning company!

Whooo Hooo, we have won over 30 industry awards (yes, I know gloat, gloat), which is interesting because our NRS office is so small now with all the awards displayed; we have to go outside to change our minds or have a different emotion.

I was at the hairdressers the other day, and the young girl doing my hair (chewing gum like a cow) stated that she would like to be a successful business person like me and make LOTS of money and be RICH and what’s the secret?

I proceeded to fill her in with all the insights into running a wonderful successful business. The highs, the lows, the pitfalls, trials and

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

tribulations, placing every sorted emotion that I have in my aging body into my story. Crying, laughing, sobbing, pounding the desk at times, withering on the floor in the foetal position, pouring my heart out to this young person, whom I may be able to inspire and be a SUCCESS and own a business.

The interesting part was the fact that whilst telling her to work hard, sweat blood, give up ya life, hand your first born over to the tax office and try and pimp your grandmother, she was in the process of checking Facebook. She was talking to all the other girls about her ingrown toe nails, changing gum, and having what she called “a durry” out the back. Yep, that pretty much well nails it for the next generation of business owners coming through, I am glad I was able to inspire her.

Sigh….NEXT! NRS has worked on three blockbuster movies, Yes, three (heart pounding wildly), and Leonardo De Caprio threw his half eaten apple into the bin next to me (Screammmmm) pant pant pant….

THANK GOD! I was in a position of trust; I could have sold that on

eBay for at least $2 Mil. I also believe in going over and above in my work, so I voluntarily stood outside Hugh Jackmans shower block, guarding that. Now come on, you don’t want it stolen do you?

We once guarded a block of concrete, drying, stood there and stared at it for 12 hours whilst it set, now that, my friends, is living the dream. I sorta realise what cricket players go through now, watching the grass grow all summer during cricket, when they are out on the field, but they do it as a sport? Strange.

So there you have it folks, owning a security company means you can go from knocking people out in a shopping centre (with a trolley, not one punch as that not acceptable), looking at labels, all friggn day, driving 897 klms to save 15 cents off fuel, work with mega stars, watch concrete dry, and sniff a half- eaten apple that Leo baby has eaten and thrown in the bin (OKAY, I admit it, alright, I sniffed it) To inspiring our wonderful youth of today to better themselves.

And that my avid readers is how you win 30 industry awards! Now take a bow.

KEEPING BUSINESS LOCAL

6 months free

back to base monitoring* ML No. 405714685

www.nepeanregionalsecurity.com.au

* new connections

Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.

Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor.

We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

Kingswood Florist, Creative Balloons, Penrith Florist and St Marys Florist 4732 2182 • St Marys 9623 4589

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

The G Spot

27

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

We promote the responsible service of gaming and alcohol. All our advertising and promotions are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

Tolkien’s Town, Lewis’ Local

Having a punt

Christ Church College

By BEN CRANNEY

L

ast year, I drove across a bridge in England that had a ten cent toll. It barely sounds worth it, especially for the toll collector who sits in a cramped tin shed with no relief from the weather.

It’s as if someone just wants the power of collecting a toll, and doesn’t care about the actual profit. It wasn’t in some out of the way place, either, it was Oxford.

And the queue was constant, so there was probably still decent revenue.

Oxford is full of interesting and obscure little things like this. My favourite is the college named after Mary Magdalen, which is somehow pronounced ‘Maud-lin’. Ask any pom, and they think you’re strange for even questioning it. ‘Oh, the poor antipodean struggles with English’.

My second favourite is all of the literary references around the place. Stained glass windows in churches

Magdalen College

have Alice in Wonderland figures in them, and stories of a real life Mad Hatter chasing people down the street, seeking his payment, made me wonder how much else of that story could have been real.

The pub where CS Lewis and Tolkien met to talk can be the start of a fantastical pilgrimage that could end at their graves. Tolkien’s is particularly moving, as he is buried with his wife. The tombstone names them as Beren, the mortal who fell in love with the most beautiful elf princess, Luthien, who gave up immortality to be with him. And punting down the river might have you keeping a sharp eye for weasels come to take Toad Hall.

Punting is hard work, so you may well find yourself back in the pub for a break. At Turf Tavern, Bob Hawke broke the world record for skoling a yard glass. They don’t sell it by the yard anymore, so you can’t try yourself. But you might be able to in some of the other pubs. Murder mystery fans will enjoying

www.majoroak.com.au

Morse’ local

drinking at the same pubs as Morse and Lewis, like The Perch or The Trout, but you could walk into just about any and have a good time.

The toll owners don’t have to pay tax, thanks to King George III. And no-one is allowed to build a bridge within three miles, so the income is protected.

And if five pence is too steep, you can walk across for free.

29 Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

ENTERTAINMENT Ben Cranney’s travel tips to keep for when we can travel again!

www.valentinoswoodfire.com

Running for over 20 years

|

Group and Individual bookings

a-la-carte or set-menu service Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday 5:30pm - 9:30pm

Open Sunday lunch for parties over 20 - Bookings essential Home Delivery & Takeaway available

17/55-61 York Road, Penrith | Phone 4731 4314

ENTERTAINMENT

T

his June, we bring you a funny, honest and heart-warming story featuring five fabulous women in The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race. Written

by Melanie Tait, directed

by Priscilla Jackman and inspired by real life events.

We’ve got great comedy lined up for you too!

Don’t miss the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow featuring an all-killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars, talented newcomers and international performers. Plus one for the kids and families as well - join the maestros of children’s comedy, The Listies as they bring you a side-splitting badaptation of Shakespeare’s classic play in Hamlet: Prince of Skidmark.

And be sure to make time to head over to our sister site, Penrith Regional Gallery, Home of The Lewers Bequest, to see the latest exhibition, Bird Petyarre & Middlebrook.

Ricochet 2021 4 June 7pm St Paul’s Grammar School Mid-Year Dance Showcase An annual concert for St Paul’s Grammar School Dance Academy and curriculum elective dance students. This showcase provides the opportunity for students to perform in a professional venue and to learn about commitment and effort towards a common goal.

Standard $25 • Student / Concession / Child $20

Pops for Tots - Musical Superheroes 6 June 11am Penrith Symphony Orchestra Join the orchestra, Rachael Coopes (Play School) & ‘Big G’ (The Maestro and the Magician) on a fantastic musical adventure as they search for our hero’s superpower.

Discover the exciting sounds of the orchestra in a fun and informal setting for the whole family. Pops for Tots provides an engaging and enjoyable introduction to music and how it’s made, for children of all ages. Come along to sing, dance, perhaps even conduct the orchestra!

Standard $35 • Under 16 $25 Family of 4 $95 (4 tickets)

Shout out to Darren Latty and his crew in the PRD/Panthers Bash Car #NRL6 who over the past week with their group raised over $80,000 of the total $1,250,000 to help the dis-advantaged, sick and special needs children through Variety - The Children’s Charity.

Variety Bash 2021 The starting grid forms up with over 100 cars on show, That’s 300+ Bashers believing that all kids deserve a fair go.

Over 2,500 kilometres and seven days on the road, The Variety Bash since ’84 when the idea was first bestowed.

A bash car has a story, must be over thirty years in age, Driven along dusty county roads – can and do breakdown at any stage.

In every town and community that the bash path crosses through, The Variety spirit comes together – locals, bashers and support crews.

This year Inverell, Moree and out to Lightning Ridge, Visiting schools, delivering joy and drinking empty the pubs fridge.

Travelling through Gunnedah and Armidale with The Hunter Valley on the route, Starts and finishes back in Newcastle after a full week in pursuit.

Variety helps where others can’t and each Bash plays a special role, Cheers to all you Bashers, delivering on your fundraising goal.

Follow on socials See more tributes at www.mrdannytribute.com.au mrdannytribute.com.au

Soundscape 2021 7 June 7pm St Paul’s Grammar School Music Concert Soundscape 2021 is a performance showcase of St Paul’s Grammar School co-curricular music ensembles featuring a wide range of musical styles. Ensembles include choirs, jazz, world music, percussion, chamber groups, rock bands, strings and ukulele.

Standard $25 • Student / Concession / Child $20 Art Talk: Margaret Preston - An Australian Vision 9 June 11am Nick Yelverton, Assistant Curator of Australian Art, Art Gallery of New South Wales Learn about one of Australia’s most significant artists, Margaret Preston. “...a key figure in the development of modern art in Sydney from the 1920s to the 1950s. Renowned for her paintings and woodcuts of local landscapes and native flora, she was an outspoken public voice on Australian culture and championed a distinctly Australian style, based on the principles and motifs of modernist, Aboriginal and Asian art.” – Art Gallery of New South Wales Standard $15

Mike’s Pantry with Michael Creed

Creamy Tomato, Chorizo and Chicken Pastabake

Ingredients: 250g Farfelle Pasta 4 Chicken breasts, roughly cubed 1 large Chirozo sausage, diagonally sliced (thick) 2 tins of diced tomatoes 250ml of low fat fresh cream 1 diced onion 1 garlic clove minced 100g grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese Olive oil Salt & pepper Fresh basil leaves

Method: • Fill a large saucepan with water.

Add salt to the water and bring it to the boil, then add the pasta.

Cook the pasta according to packet instructions and then drain it. Set the pasta to one side.

• Heat some oil in a large frying pan and add the onion and the garlic.

Cook them for about 5 minutes or until softened. Don’t burn the garlic otherwise it will taste bitter.)

• Add the chorizo and cook for a couple of minutes, and then add the chicken and cook on all sides until

browned. This should take about 5 minutes.

• Put the chicken and chorizo mixture and the pasta into a large oven dish and mix well.

• Heat the tomatoes in a large saucepan until simmering and then add the cream. Season with salt and pepper and cook for five minutes or until the sauce has thickened.

• Pour the sauce over the pasta, chicken and chorizo and mix well.

• Sprinkle the cheeses over the top of the pasta and then cook in a medium oven for half an hour.

• Serve with the roughly chopped basil leaves sprinkled on top.

Enjoy!

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

What’s on at The Joan in June

31

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

32

ENTERTAINMENT

DINING

delights

After work Parties outdoor Alfresco Dining | Group Functions Exceptional Italian Cuisine | Cocktails

Certified Pizza Bar

Princess Nisha’s Kitchen Indian and Fijian style food and sweets

Pick Up or Home Delivery *Free Home Delivery within 4km

0450 509 869 • 0298 334 061 62 Queen Street, St Marys

By Noel Rowsell

www.himalayarestaurant.com.au/penrith-venue/

Pakistani & Indian Restaurant & Function Centre 391 High St, Penrith NSW 2750 Ph: 0423 446 101 0410 543 235 | 0402 478 167

Email: himalayapenrith@gmail.com Order online: www.himalayarestaurant.com.au www.facebook.com/Himalayapenrith/

Sip N Dip Cafe 60 Queen St, St Marys www.sipndipcafe.com.au Sun-Thu 7am to 5pm Fri-Sat 7 am to 10 pm

C

ertified Pizza Bar Penrith has been operating in Penrith for 5 years and is located at #10, 98 Henry Street.

Owned and operated by 22year old Yohanna Jajo, his 20year old brother Mark and an extensive staff comprised of family members, the success of the Penrith store has led to the opening of a new store at 5 Crana Street, St Marys just a few months back.

A St Marys born and raised local, Yohanna said “We have been St Marys locals our entire lives. We started the business for our love of food and our community and we

Certified Pizza Bar specialises in Pizza, Pasta, Salad and Desserts.

We also cater for any occasion.

NOW OPEN 5 Crana St, St Marys | 9833 9410 Shop 10, 98 Henry St, Penrith | 4722 9619

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sponsor various teams and charity organisations (in the district).”

The menu at Certified Pizza Bar is extensive, covering Starters, Meal Deals, a range of pizza options in each category of Traditional, Chicken, Meat, Seafood and Vegetarian, various Pasta dishes and Salads, culminating with three Nutella Desserts.

We had a range of pizzas shared between two families on Saturday night, finishing with the Nutella Twist, which was everyone’s favourite.

There is limited seating at both restaurants for patrons to eat in but the emphasis at both outlets is to takeaway and enjoy in your own home. They also cater for all occasions!

OUT N ABOUT with Malama

To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au

Panthers v Bulldogs

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869 Luddenham Rd, Luddenham Sunday 30th May 9am - 5pm

Panthers Stadium, 3.00pm kick off Saturday 29th May

Family Fun Day at Diggers

The Royce is the choice

St Marys Diggers, Cnr Hall & Mamre Rd, St Marys Sunday 6th June, 11am - 2pm

Harry’s Cafe de Wheels The legendary Mark Geyer (MG) now graces the wall of fame at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels in Penrith! Be sure to check it out.

Pictured here at the unveiling with Toby Hughes from Sinclair Hyundai.

The Royce is certainly the talk of the town, and if you haven’t checked it out yet, you should!

Sample the vibrant lifestyle and quality facilities residents at The Royce love.

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ENTERTAINMENT

SUDOKU: EASY

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

34

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

SOLUTIONS: 14 May EASY

MEDIUM

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Meddle (6) 4 Pedalled (8) 10 Fired (9) 11 Lessen in intensity (5) 12 Not daytime (5) 13 Funding (9) 14 Sexually gratifying (7) 16 Submerged (4) 19 The boundary of a

surface (4) 21 Temporarily expel (7) 24 Swear word (9) 25 Swelling under the skin (5) 26 Sends out (5) 27 Not extreme in

climate (9) 28 Preoccupied (8) 29 Avenue (6))

solution 14/5/21

down 1 Neatness (8) 2 Hatred of women (8) 3 Eject (5) 5 Normally found at the start of

paragraphs (7) 6 Prolonged unfulfilled desires (9) 7 An introductory section to a

story (2 words) (6) 8 Drag the bottom of a river or

lake (6) 9 Practical (6) 15 Disrobes (9) 17 Sing and play for someone (8) 18 Next (8) 20 A formal letter (7) 21 Cooks with water vapor (6) 22 Prefix indicating “Different” (6) 23 Ruins (6) 25 Excrete (5)

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1.30pm Sunday 30th May 2021 Raffles, Auctions, Irish Dancing Display Traditional Irish Music by Lenny Duff from 2pm | Blackwater from 5.30pm Tickets $25 each Stefan is a fun loving, caring person who is always up for a laugh or to help out.

On 13th February, 2021, he had a horrific accident diving into a pool.

Stefan sustained a spinal cord injury from hitting his head on the bottom of the pool.

He shattered his C6 vertebrae and broke his C5 and C7 vertebrae.

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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

I

n case you were too busy to sit through the Federal Budget that was just announced, here are some of the details that may affect you financially, courtesy of the NAB. New spending measure to help the economy and individuals The budget contained a raft of new spending measures, to boost economic activity and provide substantial support for vulnerable parts of the population. Headlining the spending measures were: • An extra $15.2bn of infrastructure investment for road, rail and community infrastructure projects over 10 years.

• An additional $17.7bn over 5 years on aged care spending.

• A $13.2bn boost to NDIS funding.

• A $2.3bn package for mental health services.

• $1.7bn boost to childcare subsidies through the removal of caps.

• $1.2bn targeted and direct support to industries which see ongoing impacts from international border closures including aviation and tourism.

More help for first home buyers The budget included a range of other measures to support home ownership as well as a more flexible superannuation system. On homeownership, the government lifted the amount of available

withdrawals from additional concessional contributions to super from $30,000 to $50,000.

It also expanded the First Homeowners Deposit scheme, which provides loan guarantees to build or purchase a new home with a 5 percent deposit, by another 10,000 places. Additionally, this year the government introduced a Family Home Guarantee which will allow single parents with dependents to purchase any home with as low as a 2 percent deposit. Details and thresholds have not yet been announced.

Superannuation payments for low income earners On superannuation, it expanded the super guarantee to include employees earning less than $450 per month and removed the “work test” for salary sacrificed and non-concessional contributions by retirees and reduced the downsizer age to 60 years (allowance to make a one off deposit into super after selling a residence of 10 years).

Economic Outlook NAB expects the economy to grow at an above trend rate next year. Thus, after growth of 1.0 percent in 2020/21 NAB has 4.2 percent for 2021/22. NAB and the Treasury then see growth returning closer to trend 2022/23 of around 2.5 percent. The ongoing lift in activity will see further gains in the labour market beyond the pre-COVID level of employment which has already been recovered. The unemployment rate has declined much more quickly than anticipated falling by 1.6 percent over the past

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

Nepean News

6 months to 5.6 percent, while underemployment has fallen to the lowest level (7.9 percent) since mid2014. We expect the unemployment rate to decline further from here, falling to 5 percent by end 2021 and 4.3 percent by end 2023. The budget outlook is slightly less optimistic on employment growth and therefore unemployment, which remains around 0.5 percent higher by the end of the 2022-23 financial year. For now, it appears that the expiration of the JobKeeper program has done little to reduce the momentum in the labour market, with the number of JobSeeker recipients actually declining in April.

Alongside the tightening in the labour market, we expect wage growth to lift from current lows (1.4 percent) to around 2.8 percent by end-2023. The longer-term treasury forecasts beyond 2022/23 see wage growth remaining at around 2.5%. While this would be stronger than the trajectory prior to the pandemic, it is still a relatively soft outlook and implies that wages driven inflationary pressure will remain weak, warranting ongoing easy monetary policy. While in aggregate, employment and (probably) GDP have returned to their pre-COVID levels, there are ongoing impacts for certain sectors.

Those sectors most exposed to international travel (tourism and education exports) will see ongoing impacts with borders remaining closed into 2022.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 47394500, 0403 166 207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

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Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

More debt and spending to keep the economy growing strongly

37

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

38

NEPEAN HISTORY

Luxford’s Champion Woodchopper

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

I

n February 1991, Herbert Frederick John Luxford was 91 years old and still living at Llandilo when he received the Advance Australia Medal from NSW Governor Peter Sinclair for his service to the sport of wood chopping. This award was presented to people who enriched the “Aussie” way of life. Herb as he was known, had set the standing world record for a 30cm “standing block” event at Lithgow in 1935 and was still cutting trees for a living. When young he walked 4 km to his school at Llandilo Public and finishing school at the age of 13 he went to work with his brother, splitting oak wood for the ovens of a local bakery for six days a week. On the seventh day he went to church. In his “spare” time, he played tennis on a rough court near the school. Later, he set up his own team of cutters and they chopped 3,000 polls a year for the Council. When WW2 broke out, his team of 14 men were hired to supply wood from Shanes Park for all the army camps in 1943.

After the war he received a license to cut wood from the Castlereagh Forest for Long Bay Gaol where the prisoners on hard labour would split the logs. Herb’s parents were John “Jack” Thomas & Rose Luxford (Bird) who married at St Mary Magdalene church in July 1895. Jack was born in 1873 at Dunheved and made a living as a wood carter.

He died at Shanes Park in 1931 at the age of 57. Herb’s grandparents were James Luxford (Jnr) born in Sussex, England in 1838. He married Charlotte Jane Payne in 1858 at St Mary Magdalene church. She was born at Homebush in 1841. James was a farmer who in 1896 leased a dairy property from Phillip Gidley King’s Dunheved Estate at St Marys.

Their home was called “The Hill”. James (Jnr) died in 1926 at the age of 88 years. Charlotte died in 1908 at the age of 67 years and both are buried in St Mary Magdalene cemetery. Herb’s great-grandparents were James (Snr) born in Sussex in 1807. He married Eliza Catte at the age of 22 in 1829 in Sussex England. He died at the age of 31 in England in 1838 due to an accident that broke his neck. James (Snr)’s parents and Herb’s great-great-grandparents were William & Ruth Luxford (Clapson) who married in 1804 in England. Eliza Luxford (Catte) was born in 1803 and after the death of James she married James Boots who was born at Rother, Sussex in 1811. His parents were Jeremiah & Jane Boots. The family immigrated to Australia in August 1841.

James died aged 86 in 1897 of senile decay at his daughter’s (Ellen Luke) residence at Erskine Park and Eliza died aged 63 in 1866 and both are buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery. In 1927 at the age of 29 Herb married Alice Hall and a very pretty wedding took place at Christ Church, Castlereagh. Alice was the daughter of Mr and Mrs Mark Hall of “Hillcrest,” Castlereagh and late of Eltham, England.

Reverend Lumsdaine officiated and Mr Sherwood was organist with the service being choral. The church was prettily decorated by friends of the bridal couple. The bride, who was given away by her father looked charming in a gown of ivory brocaded crepe-de-chine trimmed with a spray of orange blossom. Her veil was embroidered by friends in England, and she wore a handsome train of pink and white satin.

She carried a beautiful bouquet of camellias. The bridesmaids were Miss Ethel Hall who wore gold brocaded silk with gold tulle veil held in place by golden leaves, Miss Clarrie Hall in cyclamen brocaded crepe-de-chine with cyclamen veil and golden leaves and Miss Alice Luxford in fuchsia crepe-de-chine with fuchsia veil of tulle and golden

Michelle Latham

michelle@heavenlycelebrations.com.au

PH: 9623 6656 | MOBILE: 0418 250 242 186 Queen Street, St. Marys (Star Arcade)

leaves. The bridesmaids carried bouquets of lilies and narcissi. The little attendants were Peggy and Joyce Prichard, nieces of the bride wearing white silk and carrying white baskets of flowers and Beryl Luxford and Joyce Gibson, nieces of Herb in pale pink silk and carrying pink baskets of flowers. The bride’s train was carried by Master David Pritchard, nephew of the bride. Russell Luxford, brother of Herb was best man.

Herb’s presents to the bridesmaids were handsome leather handbags. The reception was held at the home of the bride’s parents. The guests were received by Mrs Mark Hall in a bonded gown of mauve crepe-de-chine and hat to match. She carried a posy of violets. Herb’s mother wore brown embroidered crepe-de-chine and hat to match. In the evening, the bridegrooms’ parents entertained a number of friends at Llandilo where a very pleasant time was spent. The bride and groom were the recipients of numerous handsome presents.

The honeymoon was spent on the South Coast. Herb was a warden for that church for 42 years. They lived on the Dunheved Estate. Alice was born in 1888 and died in 1969 aged 80 and buried in Woronora Memorial Park. In Penrith Court in May 1944 Herb was involved with the trial of Lloyd Smith committed on a charge of causing bodily harm to Thomas Garlick at Eastern Creek when a car conveying people to a wedding and a military truck collided. Herb (a witness) stated that he was driving to Parramatta in a car with a party of two carloads and when he was crossing Eastern Creek Bridge he saw a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction, so he sped up to get over the bridge before they had a collision. In trying to get away they just missed hitting a pole in the gutter, but they were bumped by a military truck that was driven

by Smith on the wrong side of the road, so Herb “shot round the corner” to miss a head-on collision, but damage was done to his car and he found that his passenger Mr Garlick was seriously bleeding on the side of the head, so he got him out of the car and rendered aid as soon as possible.

The military truck had travelled on and he got into his car and chased after it. Mr Garlick (a witness) said he was in Herb’s car when there was a crash and a splintering of glass and the next thing there was blood coming from him everywhere. He was injured in the back of the head behind the ear and laid down on the side of the road until the ambulance arrived and took him to Parramatta Hospital. Smith said that he had seen service overseas and that night he was out on his military mission and as he approached Eastern Creek Bridge he did not see any traffic but saw the lights of cars about 150 yards east of the bridge. It was a dark night and had been raining and he was driving on the left-hand side of the road at 25 mph. He was dazzled by the lights of the first car and did not see the other car until after coming out of the momentary black-out the second car was approaching within 50 or 60 yards of the first car, so he slowed down and kept to his own side of the road but when the car turned off the bridge it came into his line of vision and he felt a bump that he took to be something on the road and he continued on pulling up on the other side of the bridge. He said he was definitely not drunk because at Petersham he had 12 “middies” of beer that day, the first just after 12 and the second round about 6.30. Bail was fixed at £20, and charges were laid against him for driving a vehicle while under the influence of liquor and driving dangerously. Herb died in February 1996. Photo of Herb courtesy of Lyn Cattell/Ancestry website.

Sources: Penrith Star, Ancestry, Nepean Times, Trove, BDM online.

Contact Michelle for Pre-Planning & Pre-Paid Funerals 1300 HEVNLY (1300 438 659)

SPORT

Grace Lee in action during the 2021 Glenmore Cup

By Noel Rowsell

E

xciting young female golfer Grace Lee (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC) has claimed another trophy for her burgeoning trophy cabinet, winning her age division (16+ years) at the 2021 North Coast Junior Masters Tournament, which was held at Kew Country Club over the 15th-16th May. Grace shot scores of 77 and 78 over the 2 days to

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Lee captures another title at North Coast Masters

39

Blake Hodges on the practice range. Photos by Noel Rowsell

finish on 155, one shot ahead of Michelle Moon (New South Wales GC).

Grace also finished 4th outright in the tournament, just 5 shots back from outright winner Ella Scaysbrook (Newcastle GC).

There were four boys from western Sydney entered in the Boys Division, with Blake Hodges (Dunheved GC) the best performer, also shooting scores of 77 and 78 (155) to finish tied 4th in the 14/15 Years age group and tied

8th outright.

Ryan Cadle (Stonecutters Ridge) finished tied 16th outright and tied 8th in 16+ Years; Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) tied 22nd outright and 14th in 12/13 Years; Aaron Barlow (Dunheved GC) tied 42nd outright and tied 18th in 14/15 Years.

Ethan Harvey (The Lakes GC) was the runaway winner in the Boys Division, shooting a two-day score of 136 (-4) to finish 13 shots clear of the field.

If you are a local business and want to be in our next history book volume 2 please contact us now.

Korena on 0403 045 880 or Kerrie on 0422 067 644 *Ideally businesses who have been established 20 years or more

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

40

SPORT

Mixed success for local clubs in Master Pennant

Scott Chambers and Jose Vidigal (Wallacia CC) in action against Marrickville GC on Sunday. Photos by Noel Rowsell

By Noel Rowsell

T

he ten local Golf clubs participating in the 2021 Master Pennant competition have met with mixed success following the completion of the first two rounds.

Glenmore Heritage Valley GC scored a 6.5-1.5 win at home and a 7-1 win away against Windsor CC and now sit at the top of their pool.

Twin Creeks CC scored a huge 7-1 win over Dunheved GC at home in the first round, before

falling 4.5-3.5 at Dunheved in round two.

Springwood CC fell 5-3 to Moore Park in the city in round one but bounced back to grab a huge 7.50.5 win, once back at home in the lower mountains.

Leonay GC overpowered Richmond GC 7-1 at home in round one but Richmond were too strong back at home, reversing the result with a 6-2 win.

Wallacia CC lost 6-2 away to Marrickville in round one, then drew 4-4 back at home in round two.

Penrith GC have lost both of their opening matches against Kogarah GC, falling 4.5-3.5 at

home then falling 6.5-1.5 at Kogarah.

Stonecutters Ridge GC fell 5-3 to Cabramatta in Round one at Cabramatta, then drew 4-4 back at home in round two.

Next weekend’s matches are: Div 1; Twin Creeks away to Mona Vale, Dunheved away to Long Reef, Stonecutters Ridge away to Asquith, Penrith away to Cumberland; Div 2: Glenmore home to Lakeside Camden, Windsor home (at Richmond) to Muirfield; Div 3: Wallacia away to Brighton Lakes, Leonay away to The Coast, Richmond away to Northbridge; Div 4: Springwood (bye)

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SPORT

A great day at the NRL Sports Lunch with Bryan Fletcher, Andrew Johns, Mark Geyer and MC Anthony Maroon held at St Marys Band Club - The Bandy with all proceeds from the auctions and raffles going to St Clair Comets. Thank you to those who came out to support this event.

A great day was had by all with plenty of stories and lots of laughs

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Supporting the comets at the Bandy

41

Celebrity ROUND 12

BRI MEL May 27 7.500pm

NQC WES NZW STG May 28 6.00pm

May 28 7.55pm

ROUND 13

PAN BUL

SOU PAR

SYD CAN

CRO GCT

NEW MAN

STG BRI

WES PAN

MEL GCT

NEW PAR

May 29 3.00pm

May 29 5.30pm

May 29 7.35pm

May 30 2.00pm

May 30 4.05pm

June 3 7.50pm

June 4 7.55pm

June 5 7.35pm

June 6 4.05pm

SCORE

Jeff TobyWatson Hughes- -Club Sinclair President, Hyundai St- Marys 4720 1111 Band Club - 9623 1211

118 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

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

128 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

126 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

110 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

102 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400

104 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

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

110 Terry ‘Mad Dog” Corbett - St Clair Comets Councillor Benard Bratusa

114 Greg Penrith Councillor AaronDavies Tyres -- @print

122

Come join the family

mgactiv.com.au

R I P T TS ROUND 12

BRI MEL May 27 7.500pm

NQC WES NZW STG May 28 6.00pm

May 28 7.55pm

ROUND 13

PAN BUL

SOU PAR

SYD CAN

CRO GCT

NEW MAN

STG BRI

WES PAN

MEL GCT

NEW PAR

May 29 3.00pm

May 29 5.30pm

May 29 7.35pm

May 30 2.00pm

May 30 4.05pm

June 3 7.50pm

June 4 7.55pm

June 5 7.35pm

June 6 4.05pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ

126 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

120 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

126 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

118 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

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

110 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

112 Natasha Hemms - Big Swing Golf - 4721 1296

126 Dale ‘Tex’ Walker - Sports Journalist, Nepean News

114 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

122 Samantha Shakespeare - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977

126

“Where you can be you”

mgactiv.com.au

Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

44

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Tex’s TALES

with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker Is there any stopping the mighty Panthers in 2021? You’d be a game person to say yes.

The perfect ten in Brisbane a fortnight ago became eleven when they took care of a poor Rabbitohs outfit in Dubbo last Sunday.

Hometown hero Matt Burton turned on a brilliant display bagging three tries whilst Nathan Cleary took his season points tally to 140 after scoring 28 against the Bunnies.

“To come back to your hometown and put on a performance like that is pretty special,” said Burton.

“I can’t believe it, you dream as a kid to play in your hometown, but to do it in the Meanwhile Saturday afternoon footy takes place in the top grade tomorrow when the Panthers take on a desperate Bulldogs outfit at Bluebet Stadium.

And this one will have some extra meaning with ex Panther assistant Trent Barrett looking to strike against his old club.

Barrett has already taken Jack Hetherington, Matt Burton and Brent Naden and is no doubt sniffing around for more.

The Panthers will have a point to prove, and just like last week I’m tipping a standout performance from Matt Burton. He will be hitting plenty of holes in what has been a vulnerable Bulldogs defensive line all season.

The Dogs have conceded an average of 30 points per game this year. It should be a walk in the Park for the mountain men.

Phil Gould recently identified on social media some of the reasons for the dwindling participation in Rugby League, highlighting that the NRL seems to think it’s solely on high tackles.

One of the reasons ‘Gus’ shared is one that will hit home with many of our readers - anti social behaviour on the sidelines at junior games.

I often head to watch a friend’s young fella play in the Under 11’s in the Parramatta district and the behaviour by some of the parents on the sidelines is absolutely disgusting. Screaming at the top of their lungs like a murder has just been committed

NRl, there’s no better feeling.”

Following Burton’s performance many tongues were wagging once again as to whether he will backflip on his Bulldogs deal where he is set to play in the halves.

Staying at the Panthers would see him secure a permanent spot on the left edge.

“I’m not sure he’s out of position from what I can see,” said coach Ivan Cleary.

“We made a real attempt to sign him as a centre.”

The more the season goes on with continued success it’s certainly going to cross Burton’s mind whether he should stay a Panther for many years to come.

Trent Barrett returns to Penrith Stadium tomorrow afternoon is enough to give you a perforated ear drum. And, yes, many are the mums who are responsible for such vitriol.

It’s been going on for a long time and just because the local association puts out a few signs about being respectful etc, it hasn’t made much of a difference.

So if you are one of those psycho mad screamers on the sidelines, maybe next time you are at a game, try and have an outer body experience and look back at yourself at the way you are behaving.

Winning is nice but being sh*t at it is not!

Peter V’landys is damned if he does and damned if he doesn’t. But based on the two weeks of trying to ‘clean up’ the game’ they have got plenty of work to do.

So much that neutral fans are electing to hit the remote and switch to another channel. The criticism on social media was in overdrive for both Under pressure - NRL Commission weekends and V’landys Chairman Peter V’landys must now admit what he is trying to do is not as easy as he first thought.

With new rules speeding up the game and creating a hefty injury toll, it has also caused an increase in reckless and high tackles.

V’landys now finds himself in the position of protecting the game’s new direction, and that’s taking a no tolerance stance on high shots..

“Make no mistake, we will be continuing with the crackdown,” said V’landys.

“I am not doing my job if I don’t protect the players, we need to get high shots out of the game.

“I want them to leave the game with all their faculties.

“We need to address this now. If we don’t do something about concussion we are going to have a long term problem.

“We probably over did it in the Magic round, but we will continue to be ruthless until we find the right balance.”

Some of the sin bins are ridiculous including Matt Lodge for the Broncos against The Roosters on Saturday night.

As Dragon Ben Hunt said ‘they’ve changed the rules of the game that increases fatigue and under fatigue you can become reckless.

“They are really enforcing these rules and it’s up to the NRL to find consistency because we are not there yet. They need to find consistency because at the moment it’s all over the shop.

“You get to tackle three or four and then there is another six again, and then a drop out or something like that.

“You’re defending for long periods of time. If you’re in a cycle for 10 or 12 minutes and the ball just stays in play, that’s where the big boys are pretty tired.”

At the end of the day V’landys needs to find the right balance sooner rather than later. He’s pretty big in taking pot shots at the AFL, but just quietly the AFL are having a little snigger to themselves with the way the NRL is trying to change the game at the moment.

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PENRITH PANTHERS

with Dale ‘Tex’ Walker Some clubs are seriously struggling with the speed of the game. Despite their winning effort against a young patched up Roosters side the Brisbane Broncos are a basket case, yet they have a development and pathways system which should have them as one of the strongest clubs every year. What is the answer north of the border? They’ve brought in Kevin Walters and after endless poor performances, combinations in the halves are changing at a rate of knots. Don’t get me wrong, I have no time for the Broncos but there is no way they should be in the mess they’ve been in for the past three years. They limped into the finals and 2019, Spooners last year, and yes, they could end up with it again in 2021.

The West’s Tigers are not in the category of the Broncos but I suppose you can say they are consistent - consistently inconsistent! They just don’t have the killer blow, can’t win the close ones and have some ordinary players in the top grade who simply shouldn’t be playing NRL. I’ll give the Knights a small break and wait for Kalyn Ponga and Mitchell Pearce to return, and on paper they should seriously be competing for the top half of the eight. They also struggle with depth and their outside backs find it difficult to step up to the big time.

David Klemmer has been better recently but he needs to fire up more often. Tyson Frizzell is a leader with his actions but can also drift in and out of games. They need more from these two given their experience. I’m expecting a better second half of the season from the Knights, they did test the Panthers at home last month.

I must admit I had much higher expectations of the Bulldogs this year and thought they would be on the verge of the top eight.

I know they are going through a rebuild but they are a major disappointment. Kyle Flanagan was supposed to be Mr Fixit but he’s been dropped to the Reggies. Jack Hetherington has let his temper get the better of him, Nic Cotric is getting a cold in the outside backs with Corey Allan and they also have had injuries with Dylan Napa and Josh Jackson.

I expect they will be similar to last year and win a few games at the back end of the season which augurs well for 2022.

Justis Huni will take on Paul Gallen on June 16 at the ICC.

Come late evening on June 16 we will know where Paul Gallen sits in Australian Boxing.

Gallen takes on Olympic medal favourite Justis Huni at the International Convention Centre Darling Harbour with tickets starting at $59 per person at premier.ticketek.com.au Gallen, who said prior to the Lucas Browne fight he doesn’t get mixed up in trash talk, has been most vocal in the lead up to this one.

“I know about Justis’ pedigree in the amateurs and he has quit, ‘’ Gallen told the Daily Telegraph.

“Once you quit in life, it’s in you, it’s always in you somewhere.”

Huni is just starting his career at age 22 and has created a huge impression as a pro with three fights and three knockouts.

“I’m here, I’m healthy and I’m dangerous,” he said.

“If anything I’m going to make him give up.”

It’s Gallen’s toughest test in the ring to date, he’ll have to be more patient against a class opponent and adjust his fight strategy to go the distance with Huni.

The performance by Macarthur FC in their first year of A-League cannot be underestimated.

Sitting fifth on the ladder and all but assured of a semi final spot, many had Macarthur as wooden spoon favourites in their debut season.

Led by former socceroo Mark Milligan, Macarthur FC secured a valuable away point to

Perth Glory last weekend.

A win at home against Wellington next Friday night will see them playing semi final football.

And with the closeness of the competition outside of Melbourne City, there’s every chance they can go deep into the semi finals which commence on June 11.

45 Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

Tex’s TALES

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Have you spotted a celeb in the local area or wish to submit a comment or have a tale to tell?

Send an email to infotexfit@gmail.com or follow twitter @texy71.

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PENRITH PANTHERS

Coach’s Corner W

Taking care of the non-obvious

ithin every successful business, family and sporting organisation the need to effectively manage the small details often determines the outcomes achieved. Whether positive or negative, wins or losses, the deciding factor will often fall into the category of a small detail. A small detail which brings the tower falling down. Every detail needs to be as important as the next. It is the accumulation of small details which creates the basis for success. This accumulation allows every member to perform their specific role without distraction or confusion which leads to the bigger elements taking care of themselves.

Early in my coaching career I wanted to know and learn the 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. We look at success, copy it and roll forward. The cycle which develops is the other organisations 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.

Brock Shepperd Mounties Ron Massey Cup Head Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

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. Yet their success stands firm even when the greatest player the game has ever seen in Cameron Smith rides off into the sunset.

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 players and coaching staff to bring out the best in his team on a consistent basis. The Roosters currently sit within the Top 8 despite a war path of injuries, suspensions and retirements.

Two successful organisations and two totally different paths to achieve this success. The aligning areas revolve around the simple and small elements. Core skills, knowledge of the teams 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.

So as junior coaches we need to value the small elements which build and develop successful and competent players. Teach them the fundamentals and then allow the game to teach them how to apply them in certain situations. As coaches we talk far too much to junior and development athletes, give them the basis and outline of what you want them to do, and then let them get as many repetitions in open environments actually performing the skill, this is where the learning and the vital lessons take place and as coaches we are to set this environment and use our discretion to guide the players in the right direction.

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My Emmy Gees and the loss of one of NRL’s best

C

 Most improved Nicho Hynes

 The unstoppable freight train

an you believe the current NRL season reaches its half way point this weekend? Man that’s gone quick! Given the drama filled rounds we’ve encountered these past 2 weekends I thought I’d steer clear of that and present my “Half yearly Em Gees”, awards and gongs to those who have and haven’t shone so far this season.

Best team Penrith. The Panthers are on an unstoppable mission to completely eradicate every semblance of last years grand final! What a team and what a season they are having. 11 wins from 11 games to start this year has them absolutely purring and are a standout as team of the year at the half way mark.

Best Player Nathan Cleary. Whatever Nathan Cleary has done in the offseason make sure you bottle it Penrith, because he’s having a year for the ages! Not since Thurston and Johns has a playmaker been so so dominant. Cleary has improved in every facet of the game and the captaincy totally agrees with him.

Most improved team Manly and the Cowboys.

Both clubs started the season with 4 losses. Manly were averaging 39 points against while the Cowboys looked in for a long year with their coach Todd Payten publicly giving it to his best player Jason Taumalolo after a round 1 defeat against the Panthers. But both clubs recovered magically to be right in contention as a serious dark horse of the competition.

Most improved player Nicho Hynes Melbourne.

I honestly didn’t think the kid was as good as he is! You’d think having 4 or 5 of their stars out Melbourne would struggle. Not so. Especially not with Hynes playing as good as he is. The Melbourne Storm will be the Panthers biggest hurdle this season.

 Vale Bobby Fulton

Most disappointing team Take your pick. The Bulldogs, Broncos, Tigers, Sharks.. for mine it’s the Newcastle Knights. A lot was expected from the Novacastrians after playing finals footy last year but they’ve been a mere shadow of themselves this season. There doesn’t seem to be any real urgency when they play which is worrying. There’s still a lot of footy to be played this season but the Knights look no chance of repeating last year’s efforts.

Best new talent There’s never been a class of 18 year olds like there is currently in the NRL, reinforcing the saying “if you’re good enough you’re old enough”.

The Roosters Sam Walker though is something special. Only weighing 79kgs, the young Roosters playmaker shows that size isn’t everything in footy, you’ve got to have smarts as well. And Walker has them in abundance.

And another thing.

We were woken to the sad news last Sunday that immortal rugby league player Bobby “Bozo” Fulton had passed away after a long battle with cancer. Bob Fulton was one of the genuine superstars of our game; as a player, coach and administrator. His loss was sudden and unexpected which always is a shock. Bozo was my coach on the 1990 kangaroo tour of England and France. It was in France when he called me to his room. “MG, how would you like to wear the green and gold this weekend against the French?” was how he told me I’d be making my test debut for Australia.

He was a mans man who loved a practical joke. He will be sorely missed by the rugby league fraternity. Rest in Love Bozo xx See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 Nepean News 28 May 2021 Issue 304

ON THE

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