Nepean News 28 October 2022

A big pink cheque

For the month of october, Penrith has had a very important job. It’s to turn the whole town PINK.

The McGrath Foundation selected Penrith as the first metropolitan area in which to head the Pink Up Your Town Campaign.

Gai Hawthorn, President and Ambassador of Pink Up Penrith said she knew the community would come together for a great cause, and they sure have!

“Words can’t express our gratitude to Penrith rSL,” Gai Hawthorn said on behalf of the Pink Up Penrith Committee. “Neele Chand and Leanne Stokes, plus all their fantastic staff surprised our Pink Up team with a great Pink Raffle held at the club.

“They raised $10,350! Woohoo, thank you everyone and all the patrons that attended and also wore pink.

“We have an amazing community, thank you again Penrith rSL, you’ve made a fabulous contribution to the Pink Up Penrith fundraising for the McGrath Foundation!”

editor:

Kerrie Davies 0422

Korena Hale 0403 045

Larry Davis 0432 062

Malama Psarianos 0416

Noel Rowsell 0424 007

Greg Yanda 0425 232

Dale “Tex” Walker 0411 627

Kennedi Geyer 0452

Stacey Fortescue 0420

Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown

From the Editor’s

As a journalist, I’ve covered many stories about local people who say they owe their lives to Dr Charlie Teo.

I’ve interviewed numerous brain cancer survivors, including children and their families. The common theme has been that their diagnosis was extremely poor prior to consulting with Dr Teo, and they’ve gone on to defy the odds and go back to living.

I’ve met Dr Teo and I’ve attended fundraisers that were hosted by a friend of mine, Ann Willmington, who is one of Dr Teo’s success stories.

The success stories claim Dr Teo is a life-saver; a miracle worker; a hero. some media this week portrayed him as the opposite of that. In an interview this week Dr Teo said he’s looked after around 11,000 cases. Eleven thousand! He admits that he has made mistakes. And there has been big ones, leaving the handful of families showcased on TV understandably devastated.

to the editor:

News is not

Council

I am not in any way minimising the tragic losses, but we’re not talking about a simple medical procedure here. We’re talking brain surgery. It’s obvious that it would come with an extremely high level of risk. Dr Teo has masses of patients who’ve had great outcomes, why are they not acknowledged when discussing his work? Perspective seems to have been tossed out the window.

Dr Teo spent this week like many before him who’ve found themselves in the middle of a media shitstorm. Vigorously defending his name that was formerly held in the highest regard.

Ann Willmington wrote a facebook post sharing her story. In short, back in 2008 she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and given 18 months to live. Dr Teo explained to Ann and her family that the risks of paralysis were very high, and chance that the operation would be a complete success sat at 20%.

“Now over 14 years later I am strong,” Ann said. “If it wasn’t for Dr Teo I would not be here today.”

We shared Ann’s post on the Nepean News facebook page. There was an immediate shower of support for Ann’s post and for Dr Teo. There were also dozens of other patients of Dr Teo’s telling of similar success.

The loss of life or negative impact for the small group of featured patients following brain surgery performed by Dr Teo is utterly devastating. The gift of life for the overwhelming amount of Dr Teo’s patients that have had great outcomes is absolutely fabulous.

The numerous successful outcomes should at least rate a mention in stories about Dr Charlie Teo, not be overlooked or ignored.

By KeRRI e DAVI

S

Innovative healthcare vision

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce and Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant joined healthcare decision makers, community representatives, researchers and care providers for the inaugural Greater Western Sydney Future Health Forum.

The forum examined the health and medical challenges and opportunities in the region, examining the infrastructure, services and community support needed for the region’s rapidly growing population.

The event held on 19 October 2022 was delivered by the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue and the Greater Western Sydney Health Partnership.

The Greater Western Sydney Health partnership was established by South Western Sydney, Western Sydney and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health Districts in 2019 to understand and address the health needs of Greater Western Sydney’s communities.

Adam Leto, Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue’s Executive Director, described the forum as an opportunity to draw together leading experts to shine a light on the opportunities to address the health needs of its diverse communities, whilst growing local jobs.

“By bringing together the region’s brightest medical minds, we have an opportunity to inform the strategies and practices that will not just meet service demands now, but importantly, into the future,” Mr Leto said.

“It is vital that we continue to take a holistic approach to health, understanding that it sits at the heart of all the major planning and investment decisions in our growing region.”

More than 200 experts gathered at Warwick Farm to hear from government leaders. NSW Health Secretary Ms Pearce outlined her vision for an innovative healthcare network in Greater Western Sydney.

“Close collaboration across Local Health Districts and the primary care sector will enable us to develop new ways to improve patient experiences and ensure everyone in the community receives the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” Ms Pearce said.

“Our outstanding staff will always remain the bedrock of our health system and it is through their ongoing commitment and excellence in care they provide to the communities they serve that advancements in healthcare are made possible.”

In conversation with Dialogue Chairman, Christopher Brown AM, NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Chant, who grew up and began her career in Greater Western Sydney, reflected on what future health responses in the region may look like.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created significant opportunities for learning. By sharing our learnings and engaging with the wonderful, diverse communities of Western Sydney, we can inform the

development of new approaches to future public health responses in the region,” Dr Chant said.

Key issues explored during the forum’s speeches, panel sessions and presentations included:

• strategies and innovations being developed to ensure Greater Western Sydney’s health districts are equipped to respond to increased service demand

• best communication practices for engaging with diverse communities, including cultural and linguistically diverse, Aboriginal and socially disadvantaged communities.

• planning, designing and building cities for healthier and more active residents

• understanding the health impacts of urban heating and responding to climate emergencies

• attracting investment, fostering innovative health partnerships and retaining talent.

Key speakers at the health forum included Amanda Larkin, Chief Executive South Western Sydney Local Health District, who said a united health care system across Districts is vital.

“Our networked health service and local, on-theground relationships allowed our health services to flex and respond as needed throughout the pandemic, to continue to deliver high quality health care to the communities of Greater Western Sydney.

“Now is the time to apply our collective learnings to continue to innovate in ensuring the health and wellbeing of our local communities.”

Kay Hyman, Chief Executive, Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, said it was important to explore regional solutions for healthcare challenges experienced nationwide.

“By examining the health barriers facing our region, we can identify the skills, infrastructure, resources and policies required to find solutions,” Ms Hyman said.

“It is important that we focus on regional solutions in healthcare and examine the opportunities for local health districts to grow their capabilities and reputation, particularly in medical research, advanced manufacturing and digital services.”

Graeme Loy, Chief Executive, Western Sydney Local Health District, said an important focus of the forum was giving the Western Sydney region a competitive advantage nationally and internationally.

“By forging partnerships, attracting investment and providing platforms for world-leading medical research, we can contribute to the social and economic fabric of our communities, and help shape our future cities.

“This is an opportunity to build on the region’s increasing health and medical research expertise to create jobs, fuel industry growth and attract and nurture the talent we need to build tomorrow’s health networks,” Mr Loy said.

Penrith’s new city park surging ahead

Work is underway to construct City Park in the heart of Penrith and transform the City Centre.

The 7,000 sqm park on the corner of Henry and Station Streets is set to become a vibrant, green space for residents, visitors and workers to enjoy.

It will feature a central lawn with significant tree canopy cover, themed gardens, public artwork, shaded areas, water elements including misting clusters and ponds, amenities building with green roof, seating and civic area.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said the park will attract more people to Penrith’s CBD and have positive flow on effects for surrounding businesses.

“City Park will stimulate the local

day and night time economy by encouraging people to venture further into the CBD and discover all the fantastic shops, cafes and restaurants on offer,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Its prime position opposite Westfield, in the City Centre, and a short walk from the station makes it the perfect spot to meet up, relax, be entertained, get active and hold community events.”

Penrith City Council is contributing $12.6 million to the project, with the NSW Government contributing an additional $4 million through the Public Spaces Legacy Program.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres MP said Penrith’s new City Park, co-funded by the NSW Government, is about creating a wonderful public amenity and shared open space.

“As Penrith continues to grow this makes sure we have a fantastic green space right here in the CBD for people who live and work in Penrith,” Mr Ayres said.

“Converting this site into a beautiful central city park will provide people with a great space to gather outdoors and is a fine example of the NSW State Government and Council

working together to deliver for the people of Penrith.”

Additional parking was constructed on Woodriff Street last year to offset the small section of parking lost in the development of City Park.

The Allen Place laneway is also being revitalised as part of the project. It will be widened to allow for twoway traffic and refurbished with a paved footpath, vehicle loading bay area, mountable kerb, garden beds, and trees.

City Park will open in 2023.

For more information visit: penrith.city/citypark

Inaugural war widows day commemorated across nsW

WArwidows residing in New South Wales have been honoured with a star ceremony at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park and a reception at Parliament House to acknowledge the inaugural War Widows Day.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said it was an important day to say thank you for the sacrifices made by the families of our veterans.

“The star ceremony at the Anzac Memorial and the reception for the first NSW War Widows Day is a small token in honouring the personal sacrifices and contributions that thousands of war widows and widowers across NSW have made,” Mr Perrottet said.

“A day of acknowledgement for all the partners who have lost a spouse who served in the Australian Defence Force is long overdue and I look forward

to commemorating this day moving forward.”

Following a decision by the NSW Government, War Widows Day will be held annually on 19 october, the birthday of Mrs Jessie Vasey oBe CBe (1897-1966), founder of the Australian War Widows Guild. Mrs Vasey worked tirelessly to ensure that war widows were recognised by governments in Australia and given the financial support and services they needed.

Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney David elliott said war widows have made significant contributions to communities across the state since the First World War.

“over 1,200 veterans transition from the ADF into NSW annually, and many of these veterans have a family that has supported them through their service. This support has been given by families for

over 100 years, and it is important that war widows have a strong network around them advocating on their behalf,” Mr elliott said.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting war widows and their families by providing them with the assistance they need.”

Minister for Women and Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said it’s important to acknowledge those who have had to navigate life as a war widow and provide them with the support they need.

“War Widows Day reminds us of the loss felt by many people across our state and raises awareness of the support network and resources available to war widows and widowers,” Mrs Taylor said.

Today, there are more than 15,000 surviving widows and widowers of servicemen and servicewomen across the state.

Wellbeing support a priority for schools

STuDeNTS

across NSW are being provided with critical school-based health and wellbeing support, as part of a $46.8 million NSW Government investment.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said School Wellbeing Nurses play a critical role in identifying the health and social needs of students and their families, and then supporting and connecting them with the services they need.

“Having readily available health and wellbeing support is critical for children and young people,” Mrs

Davies said.

“We know our wellbeing nurses are making a big difference to the lives of students, especially in Horsley Park, where the local Public School is designated as an outreach school that receives wellbeing nurse outreach services.”

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said 87 highly trained wellbeing nurses are now providing care and support to students in around 300 rural, regional and metropolitan schools across the state.

“In 2021-22, more than 3,400

primary and secondary school students were seen by a wellbeing nurse, with the majority of students living in rural and regional NSW,” Mrs Taylor said.

Minister for education and early Learning Sarah Mitchell said School Wellbeing Nurses are an invaluable addition to a school’s broader learning and support team, contributing to the provision of an integrated, holistic approach to supporting student wellbeing.

“Wellbeing Nurses are trusted figures within the school community, who provide a safe and confidential

place for children, young people and their families to seek advice about health and wellbeing supports,” Ms Mitchell said.

The NSW Government has committed $46.8 million over four years to June 2024 to fund 100 wellbeing nurses, who are employed by NSW Health and co-located in select metropolitan, regional and rural public schools.

An interactive map showing the NSW public schools where wellbeing nurses are located is available on the NSW Health website.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen turn the first sod at the City Park site.

Return and earn set to expand for Penrith

Stuart ayreS MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that return and earners in Penrith could be in for a massive update, with the NSW Government planning to expand the scheme so it includes containers like glass wine and spirits bottles and larger containers.

Stuart ayres said this is an exciting opportunity to build on one of australia’s most successful recycling initiatives and improve recycling practices in households across NSW.

“More than 8 billion bottles have been returned and given a new life since the scheme started in 2017, a huge achievement and I thank every Penrith resident for embracing this new way of thinking about beverage containers,” Stuart ayres said.

“Penrith is 4th in the top 10 Local Government areas since the commencement in 2017 by volume with return and earn.

“together we have driven down drink container litter rates by an impressive 52 per cent, increased recycling rates and donated funds to charities.

“return and earn has achieved an enormous amount so far and now we’re looking to take the next step as we strive towards our vision for a circular economy in NSW and Penrith.”

Minister for Environment James Griffin said public consultation is now open on the planned expansion, which would see up to an additional 400 million eligible bottles recycled each year, including 233 million glass bottles.

“We already accept beer, cider and a range of other beverage containers through return and earn, and now we are looking to include glass wine and spirits bottles and larger drink containers,” Mr Griffin said.

“return and earn began as a litter reduction tool, and since then, it’s become incredibly popular with almost 80 per cent of adults in NSW having used the scheme, which has more than 620 return points across the State.

“Since return and earn began in 2017, more than eight billion containers have been returned, delivering $800 million in refunds to the people of NSW, more than $35 million in donations to community groups and charities, and helping us reduce drink container litter by a massive 52 per cent.

“this scheme expansion would see hundreds of millions fewer plastic and glass containers ending up in landfill because of contamination in kerbside collections, and supercharge our push towards a circular economy in NSW.

“expanding return and earn is a win for the environment, a win for communities and a win for businesses.”

Consultation is now open on the Scheme’s expansion, which would see almost all beverage containers between 150 ml and 3 litres accepted for refund.

For example, this would include:

• Wine and spirits in glass bottles

• Cordials and juice concentrate

• Larger containers up to 3 litres of beverages already in the scheme, such as flavoured milk, fruit and vegetable juice, cask wine and sachets.

Plain milk and health tonics would continue to be excluded from the scheme.

Currently, return and earn accepts drink containers such as cans, beer and mixer bottles, cartons, juice boxes and poppers.

the NSW environment Protection authority will be holding targeted stakeholder information sessions and webinars in the coming months around NSW so a transition can be as smooth as possible for new suppliers to the scheme.

the discussion paper Driving NSW’s circular economy is available at https://yoursay.epa.nsw. gov.au/ and will be open for consultation until 5pm 2 December 2022.

For more information about return and earn visit www.returnandearn.org.au

Excitement and opportunities are amplified for Penrith City

tHe enormous potential and vision for the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) is being shared and celebrated as part of Penrith City Council’s inaugural Positively Penrith Symposium Series.

Local businesses, investors and other organisations converged in Penrith last week for AmPLiFy PENRITH CBD, the first event of the series, to hear exciting insights from a number of speakers.

Penrith mayor tricia Hitchen welcomed attendees and explained how Council continues to work towards a vision for a vibrant, connected and liveable City.

“today, we convene in the heart of a City that’s undergoing a major transformation. it’s exciting and bold yet based on a sound strategic framework and vision for our City,” Cr Hitchen said.

“it preserves and links what makes us great, like our amazing natural assets and features, whilst enhancing the opportunities for new and emerging investment and growth, such as the new international airport on our border, and connection by rail from day one of operations,” she said.

Cr Hitchen provided an update on Council’s city-shaping projects currently underway, including City Park, Regatta Park, the Police Cottage upgrade, 131 Henry Street and the Soper Place revitalisation.

the event also marked the launch of Council’s new investment Prospectus, a comprehensive guide to the City’s unique opportunities and invites government, investors, businesses and the community to collaborate, to ensure Penrith becomes a world-class City.

“it is a time of incredible growth, smart investment and increased renewal across our City,” Cr Hitchen continued.

“All of this will continue to drive economic growth, provide more local jobs and job diversity, deliver better transport and access around the City, and of course enhance the lifestyle of our residents and visitors.”

the mC for the event was Juanita

Phillips, one of Australia’s most experienced television news anchors, who expressed her excitement about Penrith’s growth and the importance of shining a light on Western Sydney’s transformation.

member for Penrith Stuart Ayres spoke on Penrith’s vital links to the Western Sydney international (nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and the significant role Penrith and St Marys

will play as strategic centres for Sydney.

He said the opening of the airport would shape what happens in the City, providing unprecedented opportunities for the rest of the world to access the area’s two hubs.

“An international airport 15 minutes down the road, linked by a metro rail, will interchange at St marys … it is one of the few points anywhere in

Sydney where there with be northsouth and east-west access by rail into the future, so St marys is going to emerge as an incredibly important and strategic centre,” mr Ayres said.

He added that Penrith would also experience a boom through improved road networks, such as the mulgoa Road widening, and with more small business investment bringing vibrancy to the city centre.

Council’s long-term goal of bringing workers closer to home was also discussed during the event with plans to redevelop the former Council Chambers at 131 Henry Street into a workplace of the future and the planned transformation of 158-164 old Bathurst Road, emu Plains, into a new industrial precinct.

Keynote speaker and social demographer mark mcCrindle shared Census data which revealed Penrith’s population jumped by 21,000 from 2016 to 2021, and that the City’s median age is just 35 with the number of families above the national average.

He said the future was changing with younger generations looking for more than just a place to work but rather a role in an exciting area offering affordability, mobility, lifestyle and jobs close to home.

“the future will see CBDs become CLDs – instead of Central Business Districts they will become Central Lifestyle Districts, and that’s why we are seeing more residential, more shopping, more entertainment and events coming into our CBDs,” mr mcCrindle said.

“the vision i’ve seen for Penrith and what’s been discussed this morning is an example of that – it’s making it a lifestyle district and that i think is the future.”

this event is a part of the ongoing collaboration and engagement that Council is undertaking to promote Penrith and the vision for a vibrant, connected and liveable City.

To find out more about investment opportunities in Penrith and access the new investment Prospectus, visit penrith.city/invest-penrith and start a conversation with Council.

Nominate a multicultural champion today

Community

members now have the chance to recognise the outstanding contributions people have made to nSW’s multicultural society by nominating them for a Premier’s multicultural Community medal.

Submissions are also open for the multicultural Honour Roll, which gives posthumous recognition to people who have made significant achievements in nSW.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said for 10 years, the nSW Government has been recognising the remarkable contributions of individuals, groups and organisations in serving the state’s multicultural society.

“While these awards give an opportunity to

acknowledge their amazing service, they also give the people nominating them a chance to say thank you for all that they do,” mr Perrottet said.

“i believe it is important to give people the chance to acknowledge the amazing work in our multicultural communities and the profound difference they make in other people’s lives and their communities.”

Among the twelve categories that people can nominate for include a brand new award—the Community Languages teacher medal, which will recognise the achievements of an outstanding and innovative language teacher who instils knowledge and a love of language and culture in their students.

minister for multiculturalism mark Coure said

these medals recognise nSW’s greatest asset—its people.

“it is because of the extraordinary people and significant contributions they make that position nSW as the most successful multicultural society in the world,” mr Coure said.

“i encourage everyone to look within their community and nominate someone, a business or an organisation that is selflessly serving for the benefit of others.”

nominations close Friday 18 november, with the medal winners and honour roll inductees announced at the annual Premier’s Harmony Dinner in 2023. For more information or to nominate, visit www. multicultural.nsw.gov.au

Council’s Director City Futures Kylie Powell, journalist and MC Juanita Phillips, and Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen at the AMPLIFY PENRITH CBD event.

Celebrating Mobile Playvan’s 40th Birthday

For over 40 years, Penrith City Council’s Mobile Playvan has brought the Penrith community together.

Council’s Mobile Playvan is a valuable and unique service offering families free play sessions in parks, reserves and community facilities throughout the LGA.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen is delighted to celebrate the 40th Birthday of one of the City’s most loved services.

“Since 1982, thousands of children have enjoyed a range of fun activities whilst learning through play and developing their social skills,” Cr Hitchen said.

“These valuable experiences help our youngest residents prepare for childcare and school. our service is open to all families in the Penrith area and is led by professional early childhood educators.

“Mobile Playvan provides sessions in new and developing areas across Penrith supporting families

and new residents to build social networks and a sense of belonging in their local community.”

Mobile Playvan also provides a range of specialist information including referrals, parenting support, community services and health and development information.

The Playvan’s 40th Birthday celebrations will coincide with Children’s Week, an annual national event celebrating the right of children to enjoy childhood.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen and Lucia Micallef enjoying a STEM activity at Mobile Playvan.

Sam and Harriet Peake have some fun together at Mobile Playvan.

St Marys RSL’s Remembrance Day Commemoration

On november 11th, St Marys RSL sub-Branch will commemorate Remembrance Day from 10.00am at Victoria Park, a time when fathers, mothers, sisters, and brothers are acknowledged for the countless sacrifices they had made during the first world war. Its significance is seen through the heartstopping statistic, more than 60,000 Australian soldiers and nurses were killed in tragic conflict. Lest We Forget.

All are welcome to participate in the Service, so as to ensure that all the fallen – sailors, soldiers, air crew and nurses are remembered appropriately.

This year, we also commemorate the Centenary of construction of St Marys’ most significant War Memorial … the Bandstand within Victoria Park. The St Marys and District Historical Society will relate the historical significance of the Memorial and will mount a display in the Park.

Weather permitting, students from several schools will perform a marchpast within the Park and will then participate in the Service. There will also be a special presentation by a group from Cobar in the central west of our State.

So, come along to the St Marys Remembrance Day Service, or to one of many similar Services conducted

by RSL sub-Branches across our nation.

Currently, NSW is home to around 340 RSL sub-Branches. There are 30,000 members that have joined RSL NSW within various membership categories, including Service and Affiliate members. Service Members include both serving and ex-serving persons, female and male, Reservists and Regular, Navy/Army/Air Force – they are ALL Veterans. Each subBranch provides support services as well as commemoration and camaraderie to local veterans and their families.

In order to maximise veteran welfare, assistance, and suicide prevention, RSL NSW advocates on behalf of veterans and their families with the government – for example, to assist all veterans during the Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide, RSL NSW established a Royal Commission Office. RSL sub-Branches are available to assist veterans and their family as they recover from mental or physical health issues, and assist with welfare issues or advocacy assistance with Department of Veterans Affairs claims.

The St Marys Outpost Veterans

Centre, locally, is also fully skilled and ready to provide a wide range of services for veterans and their family, to support them or assist those veterans who need assistance with Department of Veteran Affairs claims.

RSL Clubs and RSL sub-Branches are not the same – they are two distinctly separate organisations. The ‘RSL sub-Branch’ represents the thousands of people who have served our country in uniform, and while an ‘RSL Club’ or ‘Diggers Club’ was originally founded by ex-service members, the sub-Branch is now fully independent from the club today. However, the club still supports our local veterans.

If you are interested in helping veterans create a better life, or if you are seeking help yourself, or just curious, contact your local RSL subBranch to see how you can help. For St Marys RSL sub-Branch, contact the Secretary – St-MarysSB@rslnsw.org. au or 0414 557 692.

Build un-BEE-lievable hotels at Penrith Council’s Bee Bonanza

WItH Pollinator Week just around the corner, Penrith City Council’s Bushcare and Biodiversity teams are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for a special Bee Bonanza on Saturday 19 november from 8am-12pm at Bellbird reserve.

A bee hotel building expert will be there to teach bee enthusiasts (or those curious about Australia’s native bees) how to build a bee hotel and why they’re so important for local bees.

native bees play a crucial role in pollinating our native flowers and are a vital part of our bushland. Bees nest in habitats as diverse as tree hollows, underground burrows, and even inside plant stems.

Penrith Mayor tricia Hitchen encouraged the community to come along and get their hands dirty with the special event.

“Penrith Council’s Bushland and Biodiversity teams work hard alongside the community to preserve the endangered Cumberland Plain Woodland found in Penrith and the animals that call it home,” Cr Hitchen said.

“Pollinator Week is a great opportunity for us to learn more about the pollinators that work hard all year round to keep our environment thriving and an event like the Bee Bonanza is a chance to do that.

“Bee Bonanza focuses on native bees, which come in a great range of colours and sizes. Some have furry overcoats while others are smooth and shiny — and Bee Bonanza is a great opportunity

to learn all about them.”

After participants have built their bee hotels, they’ll be undertaking a weeding activity to help remove invasive weeds from the reserve and help improve habitat for the native bees and minibeasts that call the reserve home.

refreshments, tools and training will be provided on the day.

the Bee Bonanza has limited spots available. registrations are essential to secure your spot. Book at penrith.city/events

Pollinator Week is celebrated from Saturday 12 november – Sunday 20 november.

Wedding bells

Londonderry MP Prue Car has had a challenging year following a shock kidney cancer diagnosis. Her treatment and surgery were completed successfully, much to her relief, and she recently returned to work. now she has some more good news to share - she’s engaged!

“After having to share some pretty tough news recently, I wanted to share some very happy news with you all,” Prue Car said.

“My beautiful partner Brad recently popped the question and I of course said yes!

“When we met two years ago, Brad had no idea I was a Member of Parliament or what my job entailed. despite not knowing quite what he was in for, he was immediately my biggest supporter. He dropped everything when I got sick and got our little family through the rockiest of times.

“I am so excited for the next chapter in our lives together.”

Congratulations to Prue and Brad!

Hawkesbury Race Course hosts major race days

The Rotary Club of Windsor held its annual Rotary Charity Raceday at hawkesbury Racecourse on Thursday 20th October, with 250 Rotarians, friends and guests hosted in the Ted McCabe Function Room and enjoying a full card of 8 races at the picturesque track.

First held in 2014, the Windsor Rotary Charity Day was held yearly until Covid disrupted plans for the past two years, but resumed in great style and with great success in regards to fund-raising, with approximately $50,000 raised on the day.

$4 of each $5 raised will go back to supporting groups which sold tickets in support of Rotary, with the balance split between major beneficiary **Pink Finss, the Windsor Rotary Youth Trust Foundation and various local charities.

The Trust Foundation supports local students in various fields each year, including sport, arts and education.

This year Race Day sponsors were Windsor RSL, Alpha Chemicals, Grange Growing Solutions Pty Ltd, Peter Kelly Flooring, Clarendon Tavern, Jacfin Employment Developments, Turtle Nursery and

Landscape Supplies and Bendigo Bank.

The Rotary Club of Windsor meet at the Lynwood CC at 6pm on Wednesday evenings and are always happy to welcome new members.

The following event at hawkesbury Race Course is the most fashionable event on the hawkesbury Racing calendar, with Ladies Day being held on Thursday 3rd November.

Almost $500,000 in prize money will be on offer for connections throughout the eight-race program, featuring the $160,000 Listed Lander Toyota Ladies Day Cup run over 1600m.

Off the track, there will be plenty of live entertainment and fabulous prizes on offer for ‘Fashions on the Field’ (FOTF).

This year’s FOTF competition will be hosted by Sky Racing’s Kiersten

Duke and there will be two categories - Best Dressed Lady, plus a Millinery Prize.

A total prize pool of over $3,000 is up for grabs, including accommodation for 2 nights at Rutherglen estate, generously donated by De Bortoli Wines.

Registration for the competition will be held at the registration booth located near the main entrance between 11.30am and 1.00pm, with judging to take place from 2:00pm.

The support from our loyal sponsors has been fantastic once again for Ladies Day and includes Lander Toyota, Blake Marine, Fowler Civil Contracting, Belle Property hawkesbury, Irresistible Pools & Spas and All Aspects Roofing.

Gates open 11am and the first race is at 12:55pm. Tickets start from just $20 and limited hospitality packages are still available.

What: Lander Toyota Ladies Day, Thursday 3rd November, hawkesbury Race Club, 1 Racecourse Road, Clarendon, NSW 2756. More Information & Tickets: www. hawkesburyraceclub.com.au or call (02) 4577 2263

**Pink Finns - Helping women, men and families of the Hawkesbury who are diagnosed with cancer.

Penrith Valley Chamber announces new board

By Noel Rowsell

PeNRITh Valley Chamber is pleased to announce their new Board, elected at their AGM in October.

President: Richard Fox (Fox and Co Media) President

Vice President: Suzanne Walker (Clear Path Accounting)

Treasurer: Barclay Judge (Judge Accountants)

Secretary: Gavin King (Condon Advisory Group)

Lisa Finn-Powell (The Joan/Penrith Regional Gallery)

Lorenzo Tassone (Good earth Group)

Mary Donnelly (hot Properties Staging & Styling)

Chantal Bronkhorst (The Katberg Group)

Ashlea Grimely (Support Agency)

President Richard Fox said, ‘I’m really looking forward to working with our new team, setting the agenda for our road ahead, helping raise the profile of Penrith and making our region better for business. We have a great skill set and balance across the group and it’s exciting to welcome four new Board members as well as retain the experience of established members.’

Stacey Randell, Chamber engagement Manager said, ‘I invite you to have a look at how membership can support you on your business

journey and help us continue making Penrith a fantastic place to do business.’

Penrith Valley Chamber has been helping business owners build quality relationships since 1927. They are a

community of forward-thinking local businesses (large and small) coming together in an inclusive environment. everyone is encouraged and supported throughout their business

journey to learn, grow, and prosper. Business owners and leaders in the community work together to make meaningful changes– economically, environmentally, and socially.

By Noel Rowsell

The Rotary Club of Windsor’s Race Day at Hawkesbury. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Photo: 7 Chairs Photo & Video

Treasurer: Responsible budget in uncertain times

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

Federal Treasurer,

The Hon Jim Chalmers MP says the Albanese Labor Government’s first Budget is responsible, right for the times, and begins to build a better future for australia.

Mr Chalmers said the Budget delivers on our commitments including: responsible cost-of-living relief which doesn’t put additional pressure on inflation.

Targeted investments to build a stronger, more resilient, and more modern economy.

Beginning the long-term task of Budget repair.

“a deteriorating global outlook, high inflation and energy prices, and rising interest rates make this a time of great challenge for australians, with impacts on the economy and the Budget,” Mr Chalmers said.

“Our best defence against this combination of challenges is a Budget that is solid, sensible and suited to the conditions we confront.

“The Budget implements our commitments to the australian people to deliver cheaper childcare, fee-free TaFe, cleaner and cheaper energy, and a future made in australia.”

Mr Chalmers took a swipe at the previous government in his statement.

“after years of wasted opportunities and warped priorities under the former Government – that delivered energy chaos, stagnant wages, a skills crisis,

and a trillion dollars of debt with not enough to show for it – this Budget marks an end to the wasted decade,” he said.

“It confronts the challenges that have been ignored for too long and seizes the opportunities that won’t wait any longer.”

The Government is delivering a $7.5 billion, five-point plan that delivers targeted cost-of-living relief for households without adding to inflation.

“Our plan puts some money in people’s pockets, boosts productivity and grows the economy. It’s carefully targeted, carefully timed, and delivers an economic dividend,” Mr Chalmers said.

The plan includes:

• Cheaper childcare for more than 1.2 million families.

• Progressively expanding Paid Parental leave to six months by 2026.

• Cheaper medicines by reducing the PBS maximum general co-payment to $30 a script.

More affordable housing –including a new National Housing accord to build more affordable and well-located homes for australians.

• Getting wages moving again –including supporting the increase to the minimum wage; supporting a wage rise for aged care workers; fixing the bargaining system; and investing in the capabilities of our people and the capacity of our economy.

The Treasurer said the Budget begins to build a stronger, “more resilient and more modern” economy with investments in:

• Fee-free TaFe and vocational education places – 180,000 places in 2023 as part of a $1 billion agreement with the States and Territories.

• 20,000 new university places over the next two years for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

• advancing gender equality, including leading a national push to close the gender pay gap.

• Investments in cleaner and cheaper energy and transmission networks through our Powering australia Plan and rewiring the Nation.

• a future made in australia with the $15 billion National reconstruction Fund.

• an investment pipeline of more than $120 billion in transport infrastructure over the next decade.

• expanding access to the NBN and improving mobile coverage.

• Supporting small business with energy efficiency grants and tailored mental health and financial counselling programs.

• allowing older australians to keep

more of their pension when they work.

• More funding and more staff to slash the visa backlog to help employers fill labour shortages.

• Safeguarding our farmers and primary producers from biosecurity threats.

• Improving our disaster resilience and preparedness.

• Investments to protect our precious environment, including stepping up our defence of the Great Barrier reef.

Mr Chalmers said this was investing in what’s important to australians

“Because of our responsible Budget management, we can pay for the things that australians value most, including:

• delivering our commitments for better health care and better aged care.

• repairing the National disability Insurance Scheme and securing its future.

• Growing defence funding beyond two per cent of GdP over the forward estimates and strengthening our relationships in the region.

• a record Commonwealth investment over six years to end violence against women and children.

• Investments to Close the Gap and begin preparations for a referendum on a Voice to Parliament.

• Investing in better support for our veterans.

• establishing the National antiCorruption Commission.

“This Budget begins to build a better future – with more opportunities for more people, in more parts of australia,” The Treasurer said.

The Budget documents are available on the budget.gov.au website.

Legends of the Nepean WaLter (WaL) KoeNig

By Noel Rowsell

WAlte R (Wal) Koenig (Mulgoa) is a four-time Australian Commonwealth Games representative in freestyle wrestling, winning Silver medals at Christchurch (New Zealand) in 1974; edmonton (Canada) in 1978, Brisbane (Australia) in 1982 and edinburgh (Scotland) in 1986.

Wal also won selection to the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul (South Korea) and was desperately unlucky to be cut from the final team for the Los Angeles, California (USA) Olympic Games in 1984.

Originally chosen in the four-man Australian wrestling team, a late decision by selectors to reduce the team from four wrestlers to three meant Wal lost his spot at the eleventh hour, a heart-breaking development.

Wal also represented Australia in freestyle wrestling at the World Championships in Mexico City (Mexico) in 1978, edmonton (Canada) in 1982, Budapest (Hungary) 1986

and Claremont (France) 1987.

Sporting success runs deep in the Koenig family, with wife Kylie a 4th-Dan black belt judo exponent, a former National junior and senior Judo champion and National coach of the Australian Commonwealth Games Judo team in Glasgow, Scotland; eldest son Ryan was a junior National Champion for Judo and younger son Joshua is climbing the rankings ladder in Judo.

Both boys had dabbled in both wrestling and judo, winning National Championships in the Under 10 Age group, but when the time came to concentrate on one discipline, both boys chose Judo and have never looked back.

Wal coached both boys in wrestling during their years in the sport and also worked for a number of years as a wrestling coach at Shalvey PCYC, alongside another Australian wrestling

Wally Koenig - Commonwealth Games Medal Collection

Ryan & Joshua Koenig

champion and two-times Olympic Games representative, John Kinsela.

Born in Auburn in 1958, Wal lived in Granville in his early years, attending Granville PS, then later Merrylands HS after his family moved to Guildford West.

Wal entered the NSW Police Force as a Cadet in 1975 and was one of the many volunteers who attended the Granville Train Disaster in 1977, where he would work non-stop for 18 hours.

It would be a tough initiation to the often fragility of life for the then 18year old, who was put to work in the makeshift morgue.

It would be the first time Wal had ever seen a dead body but over the next 18 hours, the tally in the morgue would rise to over 70, an incredibly emotional and traumatic experience for a seasoned policeman, let alone a young impressionable Police Cadet.

Wal was sworn in as a constable in 1977 and stationed at Blacktown Police Station.

In 1985, he moved to the Tactical Response Group (TRG) and would work there for the next 4 years, then on to General Duties at Blacktown, before moving to Penrith as a 2nd Class Sergeant in 1992.

Wal retired in 2002 and with wife

Kylie still an active member of the NSW Police Force, became the homekeeper with the two boys.

Wrestling became the sport of choice for Wal as a 10-year old at Granville RSL, with a flip of the coin sending him to the Wrestling Hall opposite the Judo Hall, and thus an international career was born.

Wal later trained at Glebe PCYC, winning selection to the Senior Nationals in 1973 in the 48kg class and then won selection to the ‘74 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch, becoming the youngest male athlete (at that time) to represent Australia at International level.

Walter Koenig was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Graham Larkham.

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

There was a golden lining to the Games in Christchurch, with Wal being introduced to Queen Elizabeth ll at her private garden party, where he would also meet Prince Phillip, Prince Charles (now King Charles) and Princess Anne.

The Queen’s question to Wal was, of course, ‘And what do you do?’

The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip, would later present Wal with his silver medal at the medal ceremony.

With four silver medals from four consecutive Commonwealth Games, Wal is understandably disappointed not to have won a gold but is understandably very happy with his impressive efforts at consecutive games.

Winning a silver medal in Brisbane was a fabulous result but it was a close run event, with Wal missing the Gold medal by just 1 point.

Wal and the family currently train at Zoo Fitness, whilst the boys also train at Judo NSW headquarters in the Old Armoury at Homebush Park.

Kylie, Joshua, Wal, Ryan Koenig. Photos suppliedWalter (Wal) Koenig

Increase in the number of Coccidia cases

COCCiDia in dogs is an intestinal disease caused by a parasite more commonly seen in young and immunosuppressed dogs. While this is not a fatal disease, it can make our pets unwell and often require hospital treatment and supportive care. Unfortunately, we have recently seen an increase in the number of cases treated at the clinic. Owners should take diarrhoea in dogs seriously, as it could be a sign of a more severe diseases.

Symptoms of coccidia in dogs may include diarrhoea, dehydration and weight loss. Some cases of coccidia are asymptomatic, which means that the dog may not show any symptoms but can still be shedding the disease, making them a “silent carrier.” Other infected dogs may show some or all of the above symptoms. Diarrhoea is a common symptom in young or immunosuppressed dogs. This can lead to dehydration—especially in puppies and small dogs—and weight loss can occur as a result of intestinal malabsorption and diarrhoea.

Dogs usually contract coccidia, by ingesting faecal matter that is often found in contaminated water sources and soil. Once a dog is infected, the protozoa take up residence in the intestinal tract, where they begin

to multiply and repeat the cycle. Unfortunately, coccidia is resistant to most disinfectants and can survive in the environment for a long time. Coccidia in is diagnosed through microscopic examination: an infection

Greencross Vets

will reveal the coccidia organism in faecal matter. as coccidia is shed intermittently, examining multiple faecal sample tests may be required. Coccidia is a treatable condition. Medication and supportive care will bring your pet back to full health. after completing treatment, ensure that your pet’s surrounding environment is addressed. Picking up after your dog and avoiding areas where pet owners do not clean up after their dog has soiled. it is important to note that common monthly preventative medications do not treat or prevent coccidia.

Coccidia is contagious between dogs. Fortunately, the protozoa are host-specific, so whilst cats can become infected, your dog cannot pass the disease to cats in the household. Similarly, the disease is not contagious for humans.

if your pet experiences diarrhoea for more that 48 hours, seek veterinary attention. For more information contact the team at Greencross Coreen ave on (02) 4730 3155.

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

FrienDS

BEAUTIFUL KITTY IS LOOKING FOR A HOME

ronny is a very enthusiastic happy boy who just loves being around people, he would be best suited with a family who will have lots of time to spend with him. if you feel that you can give our happy excitable boy a new forever home please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet.

Cost: $49.00 age: 1 year and 6 months

Type: Dog Breed: Cattle Dog Cross Sex: Male

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

R251000145

archie is a friendly well behaved boy, he has been well behaved whilst he has been with us enjoying his time in the exercise run playing next to the other dogs, archie would be best suited with a family that will have the time to take him on walks and allow him to interact with them. if you are interested in adopting archie please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet him.

Cost: $99.00 age: 2 years

Type: Dog Breed: STaFFY CrOSS Sex: Male

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

Kitty is a very friendly little girl who really loves to be with you. if you are interested in adopting this sweet little girl please come to the shelter to meet her.

Cost: $200.35 age: 1 year

Type: Cat Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: Female

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

HOW CAN OUR SWEET RONNIE STILL BE HERE

OUR LOVELY ARCHIE IS WAITING TO MEET YOU

Group ink deal with Accor for Pullman Sydney Penrith

commitment to deliver world-class facilities to the local community. This development will further enhance Penrith’s reputation as a world-class event and tourism destination.”

Opening in the fourth quarter of 2023, the landmark precinct will consist of an upscale 153room Pullman Sydney Penrith hotel, a 1,000-person conference centre and a community centre. The project will transform the area and create a new stateof-the-art business and entertainment destination for the local community and visitors alike.

The hotel is adjoined to and will service the new 1,250 sqm Western Sydney Conference Centre (WSCC), which will complement the Group’s current meetings and events business and host industry tradeshows, exhibitions and other major events.

Panthers Group Chief Executive Officer, Brian Fletcher, said: “Pullman Sydney Penrith will be an elevated addition to Western Sydney’s tourism offering and builds upon the existing and upcoming new amenities within the Panthers precinct and the wider Penrith locale. It is part of our ongoing

The City of Penrith is on the precipice of a significant tourism boom, with additional major infrastructure works underway to further enhance the destination, including the upcoming Western Sydney International Airport just a 30-minute drive away (set to open in 2026).

Accor Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Derry, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Panthers Group to deliver Pullman Sydney Penrith. Western Sydney is widely renowned as the engine room of Sydney and we are incredibly proud of our thriving hotels and incredible teams here.

“Pullman Sydney Penrith will offer leisure and business travellers memorable guest experiences and superb facilities and, once open, this hotel will quickly become the leading accommodation choice in Penrith.

“Sport plays a crucial role in Australian culture and, by tourism and sporting organisations working

together, our guests have the ability to enjoy incredible experiences and service.”

This landmark new hotel announcement is off the back of Accor’s seven year deal for the naming rights of Accor Stadium at Sydney’s Olympic Park, which delivers incredible experiences for ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty members, owners and clients.

The community centre will serve as a hub for local organisations to operate from, with flexible space for a broad range of community programs. The Panthers Group anticipate this space as a flexible, multipurpose venue that will enable organisations within the Penrith Community that are helping challenged and vulnerable locals to expand their programs and operate within a state-of-the-art building close to all local amenities.

Located at the foot of the Blue Mountains, WSCC and Pullman Sydney Penrith is perfectly positioned at the gateway to Western Sydney. In the City of Penrith, Accor also operates Mercure Penrith, which is located adjacent to the Penrith Panthers precinct and will continue to work with the Panthers Group.

Visit: Westernsydneyconferencecentre.com.au

Manufacturing jobs for Western Sydney

MOre manufacturing and warehouse jobs are coming to Western Sydney after the approval of a new Ardex facility in the Mamre Road precinct.

Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies said the $71 million project would provide a boost to the economy and see more jobs in the city’s west.

“Work is expected to start later this year on the new facility that will produce goods such as cement renders, surface finishers, waterproofing, and grouts and other products tradies rely on,” Mrs Davies said.

“These types of projects are important to the local area. This project will create 300 construction jobs and 140 operational jobs, whilst the facility will produce 48,000 tonnes of powder products and 5,000 tonnes of liquid products every year.

“The development of the Mamre road precinct is an exciting opportunity for jobs growth in our area, and Ardex’s approval is only the start of the investment that is coming to the precinct and Western Sydney Aerotropolis.”

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the project signified strong investment in the Mamre Road precinct.

“We are already seeing the early signs that Mamre Road precinct is

on track to transform the area into an economic hub of 850 hectares of industrial land that will accommodate 5,200 construction jobs and 17,000 ongoing jobs when fully developed,” Mr Roberts said.

“This follows Government approval in May of the first stage of the $341 million Aspect Industrial Estate on Mamre Road, which will also create hundreds of new jobs and has nine more buildings at the site currently in the planning pipeline.”

To find out more about the project, visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov. au/major-projects/projects/ardexwarehouse-and-manufacturingfacility

The Panthers Group has signed an agreement with Accor for a new five-star Pullman hotel at the Penrith Panthers precinct in Western Sydney.

Submissions now due for Nepean Festival of Art and Design

The Nepean Festival of Art and Design is a celebration of the works of artists, designers and students from across the Penrith LGA, coming together to exhibit works on Friday 11th November 2022 at the Nepean Creative and Performing Arts high School.

Nepean Creative and Performing Arts hS, in partnership with Penrith City Council and the Zonta Club of Nepean Valley, invite artists and students working, living and/or studying in the Penrith LGA to submit works for exhibition.

As part of the event there is also the chance to win a range of prizes from the wonderful event sponsors.

Students wishing to submit to Nepean CAPA high Schools, Festival of Arts and Design 2022 must complete the online student application form, which can be found with all other relevant documents at https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/localarts-programs/metro-south-andwest/nepean-festival-of-arts-anddesign

Please note, artworks submitted must be clearly labelled with the title,

the artists name and year of student.

Student entries are free. Students also need to hand their artwork to their organising teacher for submission.

Professional artists wishing to submit to their work/s Nepean CAPA high Schools Festival of Arts and Design 2022 must complete the online artist application form also available at https://artsunit.nsw. edu.au/local-arts-programs/metrosouth-and-west/nepean-festival-ofarts-and-design

Please note there is a maximum of

three entries per artist. The cost for the application of one artwork is $25 or the submission of three artworks is $50. Please note, payment is to be made prior to submitting this online application form.

All submissions must include a photograph of the artwork to be uploaded into the application form. Please ensure all details entered into the form are correct, as this will be used for display purposes and to contact you.

Artist and student entries close

today, 28 October 2022, Delivery of works - Friday 11th November time between 9 to 11 am, Collection of works - Monday 14th November between 8 am to 4 pm

Exhibition entry costs: Adults$20, Students - $10, exhibiting artist$10, Family ( 2 adults + 1 child ) - $45 Exhibition Judges: Toby Chapman | Director of Visual Arts Lewers Gallery; Paul Brinkman | Director Blue Mts Cultural Centre; Diana Robson | Curator, hawkesbury Regional Gallery

Sample submissions - photos supplied by Nepean Creative and Performing Arts HS.

Alfresco rebate supporting Penrith businesses

Stuart ayreS MP, Member for Penrith visited el Gringos Locos, recipient of a rebate under the NSW Government’s alfresco restart Program.

the alfresco restart Program was announced late last year to support small and medium hospitality businesses as part of NSW COVID-19 economic recovery.

Stuart ayres said “Here in Penrith we love being outdoors and with the help of this rebate more venues have been able to expand their outdoor dining experiences.

“It’s great to see that Penrith was in the top 10 LGas for rebate applications.”

“this program is helping local businesses like el Gringos Locos to increase patronage and to fulfil the

community’s desire to dine in outdoor settings,” said Stuart ayres.

Ms Monique annetts, owner of el Gringos Locos said “I was looking to change the way customers dine by expanding an outdoor area. We were able to do that with the alfresco restart rebate. I had quality security shutters installed to create this experience and it’s been a wonderful investment.

the program came at such good a time, after COVID and now coming into Spring. the venue will certainly entice more walk-ins, as people driving by will see customers bustling in the new outdoor area. the shutters not only create more capacity but also security for the patrons and staff.”

For further information visit: www.service.nsw.gov.au/ transaction/alfresco-restart-rebate

Attractions showcased at Blue Mountains Tourism Exchange

MOuNtaINs

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as

Local Economic

to

from inbound

companies and concierges from city hotels who help influence visitor travel plans, along with local tourism business owners, travel media and local peers.

Stallholders will have the opportunity to exchange information about their businesses and discuss possible business collaborations.

all businesses in the Blue Mountains region are

Blue Mountains tourism has also invited industry contacts from a targeted list of government, industry bodies, industry influencers such as hotel concierges and neighbouring council and tourism regions. However, stallholders have been restricted to attractions businesses operating within the Blue

Mountains LGa

Blue Mountains tourism president Jason Cronshaw said: “Whilst all businesses in the region have been impacted by events of recent years (primarily bushfire, pandemic and severe weather), attractions businesses have without a doubt suffered the greatest.

“BMt is providing the setting for attractions businesses to sure up their viability by lining up business with tour companies that take domestic and international tourists into destinations, and local and city hotel concierge who make activity suggestions to their guests.’’

Blue Mountains tourism exchange `22 will be held at Hotel Mountain Heritage, apex and Lovel streets, Katoomba, from 2pm to 5pm on tuesday, December 6.

registration is free but essential: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/423135950017

Photo: David Hill, Deep Hill Media welcome to attend the forum as well as those from further afield.

Railway Man William Vine

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

In January 1900 a magisterial enquiry was held at Penrith Court House before Arthur Judges J.P., on the death of William John Vine, an engine driver on the railway who was found lying dead in the bush about 100 yards from his residence at Hornseywood at Penrith having been shot through the head. At the enquiry Austin Joseph Upton said that he was a wood carter and resided in Penrith and was at Hornseywood riding near the residence of William when he saw the body of a man lying face down on the ground and noticed blood on his left arm and saw a gun close in front of him on the ground with his right arm extended. He said that he didn’t examine the body that was lying in full view of William’s residence. Austin then rode over to the police station and informed Senior-Sergeant Thorndike and accompanied him back to the spot where he pointed out the body that was William who he knew well. He said that when he first saw the body it was about a quarter past 12 (midday). next to give evidence was Senior-Sergeant Thorndike who said he was informed by Austin that a man was lying near Mr Vine’s residence on the ground, so with Constable Connors, Austin and others they proceeded to the spot about 100 yards from William Vine’s residence and he saw the body lying face downwards with a hole above the left temple and a large quantity of blood that had come away from the wound. The hat belonging to William was four feet from the body in direct line with William’s feet. His body was fully dressed with the exception of a coat and slippers instead of boots. He was dressed in his working clothes but he did not touch the body until Dr Barber came shortly afterwards and then he saw a wound on the right side of the head apparently from a bullet. He examined the gun and found it to be empty, having been discharged recently about 12 hours ago, and on searching the body he found no money but a box of gun caps, knife and tobacco. On examining William’s residence, he found his railway time book fully made up to the 23rd of January and his engine man’s daily report made up and signed. There were five sheets of notepaper beside it, a led pencil, 8 pipes, keys, and some other articles evidently having been laid out in order and the flask of powder was standing in the midst of them. He could find no shot or bullets in the house and the hat produced had the left rim shattered, evidently by the missile on its exit from the head. He had the body of William removed to his residence. He said that he had known William for about 10 years and always knew him as a sober man and had never seen the sign of liquor on him. All the beds in the house were made up and did not appear to have been occupied on that night. Next, William Henry Vine said he was a fireman on the railway and resided in Penrith and was a son of William and from something he heard he went to a place near his late father’s residence where he saw his father lying dead in exactly the position described by the last two witnesses. He said he last saw his father alive on Monday morning and of late his father had often complained of financial and family troubles owing to his wife’s long continued illness and also a death in the family which seemed to affect him very much, but he never heard him threaten to do away with himself. He was frequently saying he had more trouble than he could bear. There was no one in the house at the time of his father’s death as his mother came to his house on that day. His father was born in Wilmington, Sussex in England and came to Australia aged 2 years with his parents on the immigrant ship “Fairlie” in August, 1848. He was the owner of property in Penrith but it was not all free of debt. His father’s life was insured with the A.M.P. Society for £100

and he left a Will and a family of nine who were depending on him. He recognised the gun having seen it in the bathroom of his father’s residence and that his father used marbles for shooting flying foxes and he was a sober man. William’s daughter Letitia Jane Horstman said she last saw her father alive at her shop last Tuesday night and his behaviour seemed very strange. He asked her for foolscap or any kind of paper which she gave him, he then took out his purse and asked for newspaper to roll the paper in, when she came back with the newspaper he clasped her husband’s hand without speaking and threw down (6 shillings-6 pence) in silver on the table and said it will pay for the paper, but she did not want payment, then he clasped her hand, said nothing and left the shop. Charles Randall spoke next saying he was the acting shed foreman on night duty at the railway shed at Penrith, he lived in Penrith and he knew William for about 30 years. William was at work and came in that day from Orange and came into the office that night at 8 p.m. which was a very unusual thing for him to do and he expressed his surprise at seeing him. William said he came in for a chat and to get an order for his money that he handed to him. He put his hand on my shoulder and said that he wanted me to come to his funeral and Charles said he would if William would come to his. He then told me he had made out a very simple Will as far as his family was concerned. Charles advised him to place the Will in the bank but then he was called away, so they shook hands but he was not sure whether William said good-bye or good night.

Dr Alexander Barber next said that at about 1.30 p.m., Austin Upton called and asked him to attend by order of Sen-Sergeant Thorndike at Hornseywood about 50 yards from the residence of William where he found him lying in a prone position. He found a gunshot wound penetrating from the right to left side of the head, the left wound was a little higher than the right and at the exit opening, and he found the gun lying on William’s right side pointing towards the body with the right hand extending towards the gun. He said William had fired the gun and inflicted the wound himself and judging from the size of the gun and the position of the body the wound was self-inflicted. Arthur Judges was of the opinion from the evidence that William came by his death from a gunshot wound that was self-inflicted during a temporary derangement of his mind. William’s wife Mary died in June that same year. They had eleven children.

Source: Nepean Times, Family Search (Mormon website), Ancestry, Trove.

 Photo shows 1905 workers at the Railway Goods shed courtesy of Penrith Library

Local sport grant applications for Penrith now open

STuarT ayreS MP, Member for Penrith today announced that community sport organisations can now score a major funding boost, with applications open for the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.

Stuart ayres said the program provides grants up to $10,000, with up to $50,000 available in each NSW electorate.

“Community sporting clubs are the lifeblood of the Penrith community and having a cash injection will support them in upgrading facilities and boost participation,” Stuart ayres said.

“This funding will help modernise facilities for local clubs and enable more local people to participate in community sport and recreation activities.”

The program will focus on initiatives that enable more people to enjoy the benefits of playing sport, regardless of their age, gender, background or ability.

under the previous round, Penrith grant recipients included:

• Panthers Premier League Netball equipment and uniforms,

• Kairali Thunders Penrith Incorporated-Club training programs & social cricket Come and Try Family event,

• Penrith rugby union Club Inc- To develop Women’s rugby,

• Blue Mountains Junior rugby Club -Sport Facility upgrade including signage, scoreboard protection & security shutters,

• Nepean Hockey association Incorporated -Western Sydney Hockey Centre for 4 X new hockey goals,

• Team Skatel artistic roller Skating Club Inc -Team Skatel home rink resurfacing and line marking,

• Nepean rowing Club Ltd –rowing shoes quick release plates,

• Western Sydney Whitewater ClubWestern Sydney Whitewater Club for club development and recruitment.

Minister for Sport alister Henskens said last year the Program funded more than 830 projects across NSW.

“We want more people playing sport in our State, which is why we’re growing participation and helping

people boost their budget through programs like the active Kids voucher program,” Mr Henskens said.

“The Local Sport Grant Program is about giving community sporting clubs a boost, by investing in clubs to improve facilities, enhance accessibility and hold new and exciting events and development programs that engage people of all ages and abilities.”

applications close Monday 21 November. More information is available online.

Windsor Polo Club back in the swing

By Noel Rowsell

FOLLOWING a couple of false starts to the Spring season, the Polo community has come together once again and revised the Spring calendar for Windsor Polo Club (WPC).

Tournaments will kick off in the Hawkesbury with the Killarney PC Season Opener 2.0 on the 29th & 30th October.

The highlight of the Hawkesbury Spring calendar is the Winten Cup, which is being held on the 10th, 12th & 13th November.

Club chukkas at Windsor Polo Club also resumed on Saturday 22nd October and bookings should be made through the WPC website.

The New Spring Tournament Dates are:

29th & 30th October – Killarney Polo Club (4,0 & Subzero)

5th & 6th November – Windsor Polo Club (4,0 & Subzero)

10th, 12th & 13th November – The Winten Cup (4, 0 & Subzero)

19th & 20th November – Muddy Flatts Polo Club 26th & 27th November – Killarney Polo Club (4,0 & Subzero)

3rd & 4th December – Windsor Polo Club (4,0 & Subzero).

Female sport facilities set to flourish

WOMeN

and girls will benefit from funding to help enhance sports facilities and boost participation, with applications now open for two NSW Government grant programs.

Minister for Sport alister Henskens said the $25 million Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting upgrades Program provides grants of up to $500,000 to help transform community sport facilities into safer and more inclusive venues.

“This program will deliver female-friendly change rooms, amenities and lighting upgrades, which is one of the biggest barriers that prevent

women and girls from participating in sport,” Mr Henskens said.

“Community sport is where it all begins and we know the number of female players is soaring. This program will give them the facilities to complement their aspirations.

“This investment in our communities will not only get more women and girls playing sport but will also support local jobs, which will grow the economy and help secure a brighter future for NSW.”

Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said an additional $650,000 is now available to sporting

organisations through the NSW Government’s Her Sport Her Way Grant Program.

“This program enables organisations to develop innovative ways to encourage more women and girls to participate in sport, on and off the field, as players, referees, coaches or officials,” Mrs Taylor said.

“When women and girls feel comfortable they are more likely to stick with their chosen sport. This helps local clubs keep existing players and inspires the next generation of female sporting stars.”

For more information on the grant programs, visit www.sport.nsw.gov.au/

Action from the 2021 Winten Cup. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Historic Hawkesbury Canoe Classic cancelled for 2022

AS a result of ongoing safety concerns for paddlers, land crews and volunteers, a decision has been taken to cancel this year’s Hawkesbury Canoe Classic, which was to commence on 29th October.

The organising committee of the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic Association has taken this decision, in concert with its safety network partners, including nSW State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue nSW, WICEn nSW (A unit of Volunteer Rescue nSW), together with First Aid and Physio team led by nick Stepkovitch.

This decision revolves around the condition of the Hawkesbury River itself, as a result of flooding, together with the damage caused to the infrastructure at the land-based safety checkpoints along the river.

The most recent flood, a lesser event than the March and July floods, was the fourth flood in the region this year.

“We appreciate that the cancellation will cause hardship for those who have already made travel plans but your safety is paramount,” said Kent Heazlett, Event Coordinator / Race Control .

“Entry fees will be refunded and the event will be back in 2023, so put the weekend of the 28th and 29th October

2023 in your diary now.”

The history of the race begins in 1977, when a group of paddlers were inspired by Joan and Bruce Morison’s tales of the 1950’s nepean Weir to Brooklyn non-stop canoe event.

Chris Cunliffe-Jones, Richard & Lyn Van Putten plus Doug & Marg Silke decided to run a similar event, along the river they’d paddled during their Outward Bound courses.

In those days, the school had been based at Fisherman’s Point (opposite Bar Point). Kurt Hahn, the founder of Outward Bound, had not only coined the motto, “To serve, to strive and not to yield” he believed that whilst it is wrong to coerce people into opinions, it is a duty to impel them into experiences’.

The Classic was created with those words in mind. This desire to create an experience that could be shared by others soon germinated into action, with immediate support

from the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, St Johns Ambulance Brigade, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, landowners involved in checkpoints, Joan and Bruce Morison of the nSW Canoe Association and Arthur Crichton and Stuart Ferguson of Southern Cross Equipment.

Drawing on the ex-students’ experience of expedition planning and with the help and expertise of the initial supporters, a basic safety system was set up. This included fifteen checkpoints to monitor paddler progress.

At four of those checkpoints, land-crew had to be available to support their paddlers. These crews were at Paradise Gardens, Dargle Ski Gardens, Rosevale Ski Gardens (Wisemans Ferry) and Spencer.

All craft tracking was completed by pencil, paper and RVCP marine radio and thus the Outward Bound Hawkesbury Canoe Classic was born.

Whilst technological advances have streamlined many of the procedures, the basic structure of the event hasn’t changed in 45 years, which is a testament to the foresight and planning of the initial committee.

In 1977 the Classic began with a bang, attracting 250 paddlers to the starting line. This rapidly ramped up to over 500 paddlers through much of the 1980’s, then for a stretch either side of 2000, the race crept over 600 paddlers, with the record peak of 620 paddlers occurring in 2004.

Interest in the Classic concept waned to below 400 paddlers in 2014, so it was very pleasing to have over 500 paddlers entered for the 40th edition in 2016.

Just 150 had entered for this year’s event at time of cancellation, with concerns over both the weather and river conditions undoubtedly stopping a great many competitors from entering.

Ojeda survives Bathurst dramas in solid drive

By Noel Rowsell

In 2021, the nepean news covered an up-and-coming young race driver, who was headed to Bathurst for his 2nd drive in the annual Bathurst 1000.

Jayden Ojeda (Claremont Meadows) quickly put the result of that race, which ended on 112 laps with a DnF, behind him, suiting up again this year with Matt Stone Racing, as co-driver with Todd Hazlewood in the ‘Truck Assist Racing Holden Commodore #35’.

Jayden enjoyed the first driving stint for the team for the start of the biggest race on the Australian Supercar calendar, eventually holding down 11th position after his first stint of 20 laps.

Problems with the front splitter bar and brackets beset the car early and those issues would continue throughout the race, as the team made some ‘interesting’ repairs to minimise time in the pits and keep the car on the track.

Jayden managed to avoid two separate incidents during his first stint, then had a double stint in his second drive, managing to settle the car into a nice rhythm and bringing it back to the next changeover in 12th position, one spot ahead from the 2nd changeover of the race.

Unfortunately for the team, Todd put the car into the wall at Griffins Bend and needed to be extricated by the road crews, then it was a case of nursing the car throughout the remainder of the day to ensure the team completed the race.

“I was happy with my stint in the car,” said Jayden. “The double stint felt pretty cruisy and I had a nice rhythm throughout.”

“It was tough with all the duct tape on the car due to the splitter problems, as the cars are so aerosensitive and it adversely affected the down force.”

Bathurst was the last of Jayden’s Supercar driving commitments for 2022 and he’s actively pursuing a role in Supercars next year, which will see the Camaro replace the Commodore.

Jayden is pursuing a drive under his own steam, rather than through a manager. “The best sales person for yourself, is yourself,” he said.

“It’s been important to build relationships with teams, drivers and sponsors.”

nepean Regional Security has been one of Jayden’s sponsors for the past two years, which included helmet signage for Bathurst.

“Gina has been awesome,” said Jayden. “She came on board midway through 2021 at Townsville and has been supporting me since. I’ve spoken to her a lot and she’s given me some great advice regarding business and contacts.”

Other local sponsors supporting Jayden have been City Hino for the past 4-5 years and Johnny H Adventures in Jamisontown.

Jayden raced in the early part of the year as part of a Supercars Wildcard program with Walkinshaw Andretti United, which is based in Clayton, Victoria, then moved to Matt Stone Racing, which is based in Yatla, Queensland to co drive in the 1000.

As part of his wind-down from Bathurst, Jayden was in Orange on the weekend of 15th-16th October, driving against several mates in Endurance Go-Karting.

Photos of Jayden Ojeda and his Holden V8 Supercar #35 during this year’s Bathurst 1000 . Photos supplied

By Noel Rowsell

Approaching Control Point A - photos supplied

Start line

Local clubs enter Junior Pennant competitions

By Noel Rowsell

Two local Golf clubs have entered teams in this year’s Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Junior Pennant and Encourage Shield competitions, which are being played through october-November.

Penrith GC has entered one team in the Encourage Shield and will play Lynwood, North Ryde (Red) and Pennant Hills in Division 3. The Penrith team is Zavier Button, Brent Gadd, Kyle Armstrong, Ryder Jerzyner, Jessica Fog, Joshua Bourke and Tahlia Govender.

Stonecutters Ridge has entered two teams in the Junior Pennant, with the Division 1 team playing Castle Hill, woolooware, Cromer, Cumberland and Bankstown.

The Division 2 team plays Northbridge, Lynwood, Liverpool and Campbelltown.

The State Junior Pennant and State Encourage Shield were introduced to provide an opportunity

to all Junior Golfers in NSw to participate in a competitive match play team event. Each District Golf Association has the opportunity to enter a team in both events each year, for the chance to become the NSw Champion Junior Match Play Team winners.

In 2009, Jack Newton Junior Golf conducted the first State Encourage Shield event, involving the finalists from Sydney and the winners from the Central Coast and Illawarra Districts. By 2013, there were more than 100 clubs, from 13 districts, involving more than 600 junior boys and girls participating in the knockout rounds and finals. In 2013, the first State Junior Pennant was conducted, with 32 clubs from Sydney and 5 Districts participating.

Tiger Cubs win consecutive National Title

and Qld Metro North Marlins, and again we finished the day undefeated.

THE Australian o ztag Championships were held at C.ex Stadium in Coffs Harbour, on 1416th october 2022, with teams from NSw, ACT and QLD competing. Ages of competition ranged from U9 to U17s, with both boys and girls teams competing.

Local oztag coach Kyle Fletcher (Nepean) led an Under 9 boys team (west Sydney Tiger Cubs) to the 2021 National Championships in February this year (delayed due to Covid) and the boys subsequently won the event.

Kyle was appointed coach of the U10’s west Sydney Tiger Cubs for 2022 and held a selection trial in July, with players from Norwest Eagles, Hills Bulls and Nepean Tagstars all invited to attend.

This year’s team consisted of 9 returning players from the under 9 Championship-winning team, along with 7 new players.

The 10s competition was split into 2 pools, with a total of 12 teams from NSw and QLD. Each team played 6 games in total, split into 3 games per day over 2 days, with finals held on Day 3.

The Tiger Cubs were the only team to finish undefeated after 2 days of competition, then won their way into the Final on Sunday, where they faced a very strong East Coast orcas team.

The score was locked at 2-all for most of the game, until the Tiger Cubs put on a brilliant last-gasp team effort to score in the corner, with only a minute to go in the second half, thereby sealing a 3-2 grand final win. west Sydney Tiger Cubs was named region champions, with the most teams competing and winning in the grand finals.

“The 2022 National oztag campaign started off a little rocky due to the

weather and unplayable fields, however the Tiger cubs soldiered on and utilised synthetic fields for the selection process,” said Kyle.

“our under 10’s team consisted of a great mix of athletes from Hills Bulls and Nepean Tagstars, who had finished up placed 2nd and 3rd respectively at the State Cup tournament, so the pressure was on from the start.

“we started training once a week in July, and moving towards 2-3 times a

week closer to competition. with the weather slowing us down, we trained at multiple locations, including a basketball court just to keep up the momentum.

“The competition started on Friday 14th october vs the South west wolverines, Hunter Miners and Central Coast and we were undefeated by days end.

“Day two we played Illawarra Steelers, Qld Sunshine Coast Sonics

“on Finals day, we played Sydney warriors, who we beat 10-nil, game two Sunshine Coast Sonics with us coming away with an 8-3 win and the Grand Final saw us against the orcas, who we defeated in a hard-fought game 3-2.

“Back to Back National Champions! I’m a very proud coach,” said Kyle.

The following players from the Under 10’s received team awards, being Most Improved – Memphis Latu; Best Trainer – Tyler Rizzo; Best Tagger – Nash Fletcher; Coaches Award – Jobie Madden; Player of the Tournament – Jardii Ikamui.

“The western Sydney Tiger Cubs were named overall winners of the Junior National Tournament, with 18 teams represented, 12 teams making their respective Grand Finals and 7 teams taking out a National Title.

The other successful Tiger Cubs teams were: Boys 11s, Boys 12s, Boys 13s, Boys 14s, Girls 14s and Girls 15s

By Noel Rowsell

Team pic of the Penrith GC Encourage Shield squad. Photo supplied. (L-R) Tahlia Govender, Josh Bourke, Brent Gadd, Kyle Armstrong, Zavier Button, Ryder Jerzyner, Jessica Fog.

Team shot of the U10 Boys

Coach Kyle Fletcher speaking to the U10 Boys.

Mackai (U13), Bronx and Nash Fletcher (U10) with their Grand Final medals

CoACH’S CoRnER

age of 13 and would buy the paper every Sunday to try and develop my knowledge and understanding of the game.

Brock Shepperd

Mounties Rugby League Club

- NSW Cup Head Coach

Chifley College Senior Campus

- Rugby League Program Head Coach

success. There must be a clear balance between your philosophy and remaining authentic. And the best way to ensure you are keeping this balance is to take elements of methods and approaches from a wide range of other leaders or coaches which are going to be holistically beneficial to your program. But in doing so be true to your own beliefs and authenticity.

of

variables.

of these variables are controllable and others are not. But the goals and destinations do not change, however, the method in which to reach the destination can never be the same.

This also applies to coaching and positions of leadership. No one individual has the same personality and characteristics as another, there may be similarities on a whole heap of levels but no one will ever be identical. As an aspiring coach or leader it is easy to fall into the trap of wanting to copy and replicate the methods of someone you admire or who has had an influence in your formative years of development. My father always respected the views and opinions of Phil Gould as a Rugby League coach and analyst, therefore I read his columns in the Sydney Morning Herald from the

In the early years of my coaching career I tried to observe and learn as much as possible from other coaches both within Rugby League and externally in other sporting fields. I often found myself copying their exact methods and approaches thinking because it worked for them surely it would work for me! And to some extent that was correct, I would find elements did work and made me a better coach. But for the most part I was not doing myself justice or those who I was attempting to replicate because there was no authenticity in trying to be anyone but myself first and foremost. I have found players, students and staff alike all see through leaders who are inauthentic who are trying to present themselves as something they are not. Successful leaders and coaches are authentic.

Having had the lesson on authenticity early in my career was a blessing. But to be a successful coach you need to have a strong philosophy, core values and beliefs in order to have a vision of success and be able to create methods in order to create a pathway in your chosen field to reach that

Every Rugby League club would love to have the same culture and success the Penrith Panthers are currently experiencing. It is not as simple as copying that culture. Select the elements which will benefit your club, study others, speak to your players and staff about what they value and believe and create a similar culture but one that is authentic and owned by those who are going to be living and implementing it each day. Leaders and coaches should always be driving down different streets in order to reach the same destination. There is a daily need to be constantly searching for best practice, new methods and approaches in order to improve from a philosophical perspective. Be authentic and find your personal niche as this is where you will be most effective in positively influencing your organisation.

markON THE

Wonderful World Cup!

Imust

admit, the Rugby League World Cup wasn’t even close to being on my radar a month ago.

When the Panthers prevailed in the 2022 Grand Final and went back-to-back, International Rugby League in the Northern hemisphere didn’t quite tickle the ivories. But, now that it has begun, I can’t get enough of it!

the early ‘am’ start to matches takes me back to my younger days when I would be up at all hours watching the touring Kangaroos strutting their stuff. Loved it. And I’m loving more than ever the ‘minnows’ of world Rugby League in particular.

An early highlight has been watching the Jamaican rugby league team score their very first try in a world cup. And celebrating like they won the contest, not got beaten by 70 points. Fellow minnows Wales, Ireland, Greece, Italy, scotland, and the Cook Islands might be minnows now, but it seems like only yesterday we were having the same conversation about PNG, Fiji, samoa and tonga!

International Rugby League was thought to only consist of three teams in Australia, NZ, and England. And while you’d think the eventual winner will come from one of those three nations, the only way the so-called lesser league nations can rise from where they are is to play against the powerhouses of the world and hope to inspire a new wave of footy players.

Not many league followers (if any at all) had heard the name Ben JonesBishop before the tournament had started. Now we know he was the player to score the island of Jamaica’s very first try in a Rugby League World Cup. Imagine if the West Indies got hold of this sport? Likewise with Fiji and PNG. the once Rugby League minnows are now producing player after player in both the NRL and the English super League, with the likes of Kikau and Olam leading the way.

there are some Rugby League ‘purists’ who have called for the World Cup to be halved and only consist of 8 teams. These same people are filthy at Santa

Claus around Christmas time for bringing too much happiness to people’s lives!

Every World Cup of every sport that has one has to have the nations that are no chance of winning it, but a big chance of changing a few lives along the way with their dedication and purpose shown for their given nations.

The minnows make world cups, and Rugby League is definitely no different! Prediction for the final? Australia to meet host nation England with Australia prevailing in a statement-filled display.

MG (random Westie) OAM