Nepean News 29 August 2019

free Thursday, 29 August 2019

ISSUE 259

Alex McKenzie B Com

Principal Financial Planner T: (02) 4704 8585 E: alex@futurefinancialservices.com.au W: www.futurefinancialservices.com.au A: Suite 9, 488 High St, Penrith NSW 2750

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No man walks alone

Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk has blokes flocking to do the Great River Walk. Read our cover story on page 9 Pictured: The five men who created the group with Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler and Westcare’s Andrew Paech.

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local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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reate a living legacy for your dad and give back to nature at the Trees for Dad community event in Penrith.

This year’s event is the first of its kind in the community and is on Sunday 1 September from 9am to 12pm at Hollier Reserve, Tattersall Place, Emu Plains. It’s free to attend and everyone is invited to take part.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Trees for Dad will provide a wonderful way for the community to remember and celebrate their dad.

“Planting a tree is such a simple gesture to honour your dad and can be a very positive and meaningful experience to share with family and friends on Father’s Day,” Cr Fowler said.

“This event is also an important opportunity for residents to learn about our local environment and help restore our endangered bushland by planting native trees or shrubs,” he said.

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“The Trees for Mum event has been so successful over the years that we wanted to roll out a version for our local dads.”

Participants are encouraged to wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes, a hat and sunscreen is also highly recommended.

To ensure there are enough trees for everyone to plant, please register your attendance by emailing Justine.Vella@penrith.city. More information about the event is also available at penrith.city/ events

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Plant a tree for Dad

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

hen I was a kid I was fortunate enough to live across the road from a lookout point. Cars would pull up all weekend and people would climb out with their binoculars and cameras to observe the spectacular ocean scenery with views that stretched to North Bondi.

But the beautiful landscape was marred by a single tree on the grassy stretch because it was home to one very evil-minded character.. a magpie!

At the risk of revealing a dark side of my personality, I confess that Sunday afternoon entertainment for me consisted of sitting perched at the window watching and laughing as sightseers stepped out of their cars, eyes transfixed on the view, oblivious to the swoop that was about to take place.

I now seek to pay penance for my cruel and evil favourite childhood pastime, by warning people that this is the season to be on high alert when passing trees.

Magpies, usually males, will indiscriminately peck the heads of unsuspecting passersby showing no remorse whatsoever for the traumatic episode they create!

Be aware. Be very aware.

I hope I have made amends for my wicked ways by coming clean about my heinous childhood trait and hopefully save at least one person from being the victim of an aggressive magpie - and perhaps also save them from being primetime entertainment for some kooky kid with nothing better to do!

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rab your old, broken and unwanted electrical items and bring them down to Jamison Park for Council’s Electronic Waste Drop Off Day. Electrical waste can be recycled for free between 9am – 3.30pm on Saturday 7 September at Jamison Park.

Entrance to the drop off day is via Jamison Road.

Simply pack up any old televisions, computers, small kitchen appliances, stereos, mobile phones and other electronic waste, pop them in your car or trailer, and the friendly staff will unload it all for you.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the drop off day is a great initiative and praised residents for their ongoing commitment to recycling.

“Council runs this event twice each year and collects over 100 tonnes of electronic waste which is disassembled, sorted and recovered for recycling, Cr Fowler said.

“The whole process is free and couldn’t be easier – drive into the park, our Waste Services team unload your electronic waste, and you’re on your way again.

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“We’re consistently collecting and diverting 50 tonnes of waste from landfill at each drop off day,” Cr Fowler continued.

“It really shows that Penrith residents genuinely care about our environment and are keen to do their part in keeping items out of landfill, which is a great outcome for our City,” he concluded.

More information about the Electronic Waste Drop off Day and what is accepted is available on Council’s website: penrith.city/events For anyone who can’t attend the drop off day, the Community Recycling Centre is open 6 days a week, and accepts electronic and chemical waste for free.

Full details, including what is accepted and opening hours, are also on Council’s website: penrithcity. nsw.gov.au/Community-Recycling-Centre

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Electronic Waste Drop Off Day

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local news look forward to seeing the benefits of this firsthand” Ms McIntosh said.

Healthcare CEO Lizz Reay said, “We are excited to be able to bring this innovative youth service to Penrith.”

“As a Primary Health Network, we know our region and the primary healthcare needs of our community well.”

“The street university concept engages young people and provides a soft entry for help with mental health and addiction issues.”

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said he was proud to join the Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP in Penrith on Wednesday 20th August, launching the Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network.

Key future stake-holders in the project present at the announcement included Penrith City Mayor Ross Fowler, former State Opposition Leader and former NSW Health Minister Peter Collins AM (now Chair of the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District) and Wentworth Healthcare CEO Lizz Reay.

Minister Hunt addressed the group of local stake-holders and spoke passionately, impressing all with his acute knowledge of health issues and the exhaustive current research in the state and more specifically in the Penrith District “From children to our older community, the Network (Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network) will aim to promote healthy and active lifestyles across Lindsay and collaborate on ways to bring more programs and infrastructure to deliver

these outcomes while connecting with local residents in Lindsay,” said Minister Hunt.

Ms McIntosh said “The Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network is a collaborative forum that I will host quarterly and I am inviting our local health, community, sporting and lifestyle organisations to participate.”

“We will focus on the topics such as creating active and healthy lifestyles, mental health, preventative health and education, such as tackling childhood obesity and the utilisation of our natural resources, such as the

Nepean River, and our local sporting and recreation facilities in a growing community,” Ms McIntosh said.

Following the Launch at the office of Ms McIntosh at 331 High Street, Penrith the Minister and the Federal Member for Lindsay visited High Street Medical Imaging and taking a tour of Wentworth Healthcare.

“The Morrison Government has provided funding to Wentworth Healthcare, which has commissioned the delivery of early intervention services addressing alcohol and other drugs and mental health issues for young people and the Minister and I

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Launch of Lindsay Healthy Living Network

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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local news Great Walk Foundation donates wheelchair accessible vehicle to NADO

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

he dedicated team from NADO Disability Services received a surprise call recently, giving them some unexpected but very exciting news.

The news came from Jonathan Green from the Great Walk Foundation, whom we’ve spoken about on these glossy pages many times over the years.

Jonathan is one of nine Penrith/ Blue Mountains people who trek from Bathurst to Blaxland around 170km each year to raise money for local charities.

The great news was that the Foundation would be providing the funds to NADO for a Toyota Rukus, which is a much needed wheel chair accessible vehicle.

CEO Denise Heath said she was absolutely thrilled that NADO would be the recipient of such a donation, considering the vehicles they already have are continuously booked out.

“The wheel chair accessible vehicles make such a difference to people with

disabilities being able to get to and from where they need to go,” Denise said.

“It provides a dignified mode of transport, and it minimises problems that can arise from being reliant on public transport.

“People in wheelchairs face many challenges when negotiating the public

transport system; there may not be working lifts to train platforms or assistance may not be available around the clock.

“If for any reason a bus or taxi fails to turn up or runs late, a person in a wheelchair is limited in their options, so it could mean missing an important appointment or being stranded

somewhere on the way back.

“I just can’t thank Jonathan Green and the team at the Great Walk Foundation enough for this incredible assistance! Donations like this are very rare, and it will make so much difference.”

You can contact NADO Disability Services on 1300 738 229.

Penrith’s Wrap with Love Knit-In celebrates 10 years

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enrith’s Wrap with Love Knit-In group have celebrated their 10 year anniversary of knitting and crocheting wraps for local and international communities in need at Penrith City Library.

Wrap with Love’s wraps are donated to local shelters and sent overseas to help ward off hypothermia and provide comfort for those in need. In the last 12 months, the organisation knitted and distributed over 26,000 wraps to local and international communities.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Penrith City Council was proud to celebrate the decade long commitment of the group.

“Wrap with Love is a great organisation that does a lot for those in need both in our local community and overseas,” Cr Fowler said.

“The men and women who volunteer their time to sew, knit and crochet and distribute these wraps are vital members of our community. We’re proud to host this group in our Library every month,” he continued.

Knitting and crochet lovers were invited to sew, knit and crochet squares or wraps for donation to the group, while non-knitters are encouraged to donate a ball of wool to the group to knit into a square or wrap. Penrith City Library accepts these donations on the group’s behalf all year-round.

Wrap with Love was founded in 1992 and is a non-profit charitable organisation made up of volunteers.

Their aim is to distribute wraps through local community groups, aid agencies and charities to those needing warmth.

For more information about Wrap with Love, visit wrapwithlove.org

Know your breast cancer risk and get checked 9 in 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer didn’t have a family history of it and didn’t know they were at risk.

Nepean Cancer Care Centre Breast Cancer Medical Oncologist, Dr Ana Vasista says there is a need to continually urge women to have a mammogram every two years.

“Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer before it can be seen or felt, which allows for less invasive treatment and better recovery.”

“One in eight women in NSW will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and less than 10 per cent of them will have a family history,” says Dr Vasista.

Almost two-thirds of women (65 per cent) surveyed by the Cancer Institute NSW think they are not at risk of developing breast cancer because they don’t have a family history.

By detecting breast cancer early you can reduce the likelihood of a woman needing invasive treatment, such as a

mastectomy or chemotherapy.

“We’re encouraged by the fact that more than 25,883 women aged 50 to 74 across the District have gotten a free, state-of-the-art mammogram through BreastScreen NSW over the past two years. However there are still a little over 27,500 women who haven’t had a screening yet.”

In 2019, it’s estimated more than 286 women in the District will be told they have breast cancer and 49 women will die from breast cancer.

Dr Vasista’s encourages people to make simple lifestyle changes to help reduce their breast cancer risk including: • Maintaining a healthy weight • Exercising regularly • Reducing alcohol intake • Quitting smoking To book a mammogram today with BreastScreen NSW, please phone 13 20 50. You can search for your nearest BreastScreen NSW service by visiting breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

COVER STORY

By KeRRIE DAVIES

t all began with five local men who came up with a simple idea; meet up each week and do the River Walk. Walk and Talk.

And any other bloke who wants to join is more than welcome.

The idea grew legs. Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk was born.

That was 24 weeks ago and little did those fellas - Kevin Canning, Paul Wallace, Alan Harding, Jamie Large and Billy Beggs - know at the time, their ‘simple’ idea was about to turn into a local phenomenon.

Alan Harding, who tragically lost his teenage son Troy to suicide, said the benefits of simply shooting the breeze while clocking up 6.4 kilometres was a win-win all round.

“It is a great opportunity to destress, socialise and get some exercise,” Alan said. “You honestly don’t realise you’ve walked over six kilometres, because you’ve been too busy talking and listening.”

Kevin, who is the group’s ‘social media guru’ started the group page and posted about the walk.

“The first week we had 19 walkers show up,” Alan said. “We thought that was outstanding.”

By week 22 there were 109 starters.

The group was gaining momentum.

Fast forward to week 23 and the simple idea hit a snag of sorts. While it was never given as a direction from anyone, it was suggested to the men that should someone hurt themselves while on the walk and sue for damages, that the five men could be exposed to litigation The advice wasn’t a grab for money from anyone. It was simply someone highlighting that the five men had inadvertently become ‘event organisers’ and that could mean they were personally liable should a lawsuit arise.

The event was temporarily cancelled. A post was placed on social media announcing the news,

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

In Penrith no man walks alone I

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Photo: Hilary Nathan Media

and the public went nuts. There was an immediate rising of the communal blood pressure and people across the Nepean vented their anger.

Surely five men with amazingly big community hearts could not be stopped from helping so many people because of red tape?

Even though it was in no way a Council obligation, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler was quick to inform; no way, not on his watch. Penrith City Council would cover the insurance costs, effective immediately so that the walk would go ahead.

Praise for the decision by Penrith Council took off across social media like wildfire; common sense had prevailed.

Since then another knight in shining armour has emerged - in the form of well-known charity champion Andrew Paech from Westcare, and

intensive talks now indicate that the initiative will come under the Westcare banner - and this includes their insurances.

So to quote Kevin Canning’s enthusiastic post last week, they’re back baby!

“A huge thanks to Andrew Paech from Westcare, the Penrith Community, to Ross Fowler and the Penrith Council, Melissa McIntosh MP and Stuart Ayres office,” Kevin said.

“Everyone has been working hard to make sure the walk can continue and it’s great news to announce it can.

We are feeling the love and we are so happy for the men of our community that this walk will continue.

“Andrew will be our guest speaker this Thursday before our walk. All of the community are extremely grateful.”

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If you’re a bloke and you’re keen to join in {sorry ladies, this is not for us - but we will support them all the way} the Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk meets every Thursday at the Coffee Club - 6pm sharp. The Great River Walk is 6.4kms long and takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to complete.

With a motto of “no man walks alone” you just know the group would do great things each and every week. On their facebook page is an extremely powerful sentence that sums up the importance of mateship and open communication.

“We would 100 per cent rather walk with you for as long as it takes and listen to the sh*t you’re going through than sit there for fifteen minutes listening to your eulogy.

“Remember that you’re never alone.”

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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local news

Reproductive Bill sparks debate across the state he NSW Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill to decriminalise pregnancy terminations is currently the topic of fierce debate.

It passed through the NSW Legislative Assembly last month - 59 votes to 31 - but has been delayed in the upper house following a call from some MPs who oppose the bill.

Mulgoa MP and former NSW Minister for Women, Tanya Davies called on the public to contact the Premier if they were opposed to the legislation.

“Abortion is a complex, highly sensitive and emotive topic,” Mrs Davies said.

“Animal cruelty was given five months for public consultation.

Abortion was given five days.

“Due process was thrown out the window to rush through a bill without consulting our communities.”

Other conservative members of the Liberal Party have declared they felt ambushed by the legislation, prompting Ms Berejiklian, who voted in favour of the bill, to apologise and delay it.

While stating that she felt sorry that people felt rushed, the Premier admitted there was no good way to handle the issue which has sparked fierce debate across the state.

Riverstone MP Kevin Conolly is one such MP who says he is “emphatically against the bill.”

“Obviously, the human being most affected by a termination is the one whose life is being terminated. If human rights mean anything at all, they

must start with the right of a human being not to be killed,” Mr Conolly said.

With debate raging across all platforms of media, a recent radio interview with the Premier sparked anger from women of both major parties when she was asked on air if

she personally would have an abortion.

Federal Minister for Women Marise Payne said a question like that was inappropriate.

“I don’t think that it is appropriate to ask anyone, male or female, sensitive health questions like that and it’s not OK,” Minister Payne said.

Federal Labor MP Tanya Plibersek agreed.

“I understand this is a very personal issue and appreciate that many people have deeply held views but a woman’s reproductive health is her own business, including decisions about whether to discuss it publicly or not,” Ms Plibersek said.

“The point the Premier quite rightly made is that any personal decision she might make should not be imposed on others. She handled this gracefully.”

Meanwhile, calls to the public to back up the conservative opposition has resulted in a petition of almost 100,000 signatures.

“The voice of the quiet Australians has been raised against the radical abortion bill with a petition of close to 100,000 signatures being tabled in Parliament calling on the Legislative Council to reject the Reproductive Health Care Reform Bill 2019 when it comes before the House to be voted on,” Mrs Davies said.

“The NSW community have been shut out of this process as the bill has been rushed through the parliament but are now starting to be heard.

“But keep it up. We only have three weeks to raise a tsunami of opposition.”

Without a referendum or public consolation it is impossible to know which way the majority public view on the bill would tilt, however The Daily Telegraph reported last month that “almost a third of Coalition voters indicated in a new poll they would have voted differently if they had known about the controversial bill to decriminalise abortion before the March election.”

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian

Riverstone MP Kevin Conolly

Federal Minister for Women Marise Payne

Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

Almost 100,000 signatures have been collected.

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local news

By Noel Rowsell

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m a n d a Nicol is the mother of two young boys, who play cricket in the Werrington area during Summer.

Having a sporting background and aware of the need for adequate, wellmaintained and available practice facilities, Amanda is deeply concerned for the lack of such facilities in Werrington and Cambridge Park.

Amanda said “I have noticed there are no quality cricket nets within our area (Werrington / Werrington County / Cambridge Park / Cranebrook) for young and/or older players.

“On the weekend, we had to travel from Werrington County to Glenmore Park to use their beautiful nets and it’s significant Jamisontown nets are always full with children training hard,” said Amanda.

“There are cricket nets near Werrington Athletics Centre, however they are in poor condition and have also been vandalised.”

“Cambridge Park nets near the Shopping Area are also in poor quality and standard,’ said Amanda.

“There are no nets at Cranebrook, or the new Jordan springs - you have to travel to access training facilities, which I believe is ridiculous.”

“Whilst out at Glenmore Park, I also realised how great the Skate Park is for the children, however there is nothing within our proximity for the kids, except the run-down “bowl” near Cambridge Park High School.”

Skate Park at Shaw Park

Nets at Cambridge Park

Nets at Harold Corr

Nets at Glenmore Park

There is however an excellent Skate Park in Cranebrook, highlighting the advantages of residents in some areas of Penrith.

Amanda said “I have put in a complaint to Penrith City Council but I was extremely frustrated on the weekend.”

“Why do the older housing communities not receive quality parks and equipment, even though we all pay our rates to council?”

“It is really frustrating as a parent and I’m sure other parents, coaches and players empathise with what I am saying.”

Penrith City Councillor Bernard Bratusa agrees with Ms Nicol and on Monday night at Council’s meeting asked for an immediate report on all sporting facilities.

“Ms Nicol has every right to be annoyed with Council, as the facilities at both Paterson Oval and Shaw Park are sub standard and requiring immediate attention.

“I have asked Council staff to provide an update to all Councillors regarding the current works program in place, with a specific request Ms Nicol be contacted,” Councillor Bratusa said.

A quick tour of the Penrith District starkly highlights the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ in the local community, with facilities either new/near new or seemingly un-cared for and in shocking condition.

“Penrith is a growing area and if we want our children turning off their computers and turning on their love of sports and the outdoors we need to do better,” Councillor Bratusa added.

Photos by Noel Rowsell

Skate Park at Cranebrook

Skate Park at Glenmore Park

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

An uneven playing field in Penrith

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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local news

Be alert to the measles: recognise the symptoms

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

handful of cases of measles have been reported in Australia over recent weeks, prompting health officials to remind the public to be aware of the symptoms.

The Australian Government’s Department of Health stated an unvaccinated Blue Mountains woman in her forties spent time in the CBD, and used public transport while infectious.

Measles is a highly contagious disease, spread by the droplets from when an infected person coughs and sneezes. Symptoms include a red rash and fever. Measles is prevented by vaccination.

It can affect non-immune people of all ages.

Measles has no treatment – most people get better on their own.

Measles is caused by the measles virus, spread by contact with infected people’s body fluids. It is a serious disease because it can lead to: • pneumonia and other infections of the airways • swelling of the brain (encephalitis), which can cause a brain injury • infection of the middle ear

• adverse effects on pregnant women and their babies death.

The Australian Government’s Department of Health states that about 1 in 15 infected people get pneumonia, and 1 in 1,000 develops brain swelling. For every 10 people who develop brain swelling, between 2 and 4 people will develop a brain injury and 1 will die.

Measles symptoms include: • fever • generally feeling unwell • tiredness

• runny nose • dry cough • sore, red eyes (conjunctivitis) • red rash.

Symptoms usually start about 10 to 12 days after catching the virus, and last for about 14 days. The rash often starts on the face or hairline, and spreads to the rest of the body quickly.

The rash is not itchy, and disappears after about 1 week.

If measles leads to a more serious disease, other symptoms will develop, depending on which part of the body is affected.

Measles can affect people at any age. People with a weakened immune system due to illness or injury have a higher risk of infection.

Measles spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and you breathe it in, by direct contact with fluid from a person’s coughs or sneezes and when you touch something that has the measles virus on it, then touch your own nose or mouth.

Measles is so contagious that around 9 out of 10 people who come in contact with the virus and are not immunised will get measles. Measles spreads easily through families, workplaces, childcare centres and schools.

If you have measles, you can help stop the disease spreading by staying away from childcare, school, work or other places where you could spread the infection. your doctor will tell you when you are no longer infectious.

Measles can be prevented by vaccination.

Measles has no treatment and usually gets better on its own.

You can relieve the symptoms by getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking paracetamol.

You should consult a doctor. Once diagnosed, if the doctor thinks you have a serious case of measles you may need to go to hospital.

local news

T

he Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP has joined forces with Penrith City Council Mayor, Clr Ross Fowler OAM to have a local City to Surf event in a bid to address ways to create a healthier and more active community.

“Our community has higher rates of obesity in children and adults, and higher rates of mental illness, than the NSW average. This concerns me greatly, and it’s my priority to do what I can to ensure people in Lindsay are living healthier, more active lives.

“I’ve launched the Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network with the Minister for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP and I spoke about the alarming health statistics and urgency to collaborate with local organisations to do something about this.” said Ms McIntosh.

Mayor Fowler has welcomed the opportunity to collaborate on a local event to connect the community and promote active and healthy choices.

“Penrith City Council is looking forward to collaborating ideas and partnering with local interested organisations and businesses to create this event. I will also be working closely with the Federal Member for Lindsay and we look forward to this event being held in 2020.” said Mayor Fowler.

The 14km proposed Lindsay City to Lakes event will begin on High Street, Penrith and travel to the river for the Bridge to Bridge walk and to finally finish at the International Regatta Centre. The estimated time to walk

will be around 3 hours and will be a family friendly event with partnering organisations and businesses.

“This is part of the foundation work from the launch of the Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network that I will host with our local health, community, sporting and lifestyle organisations

to address important health and wellbeing issues, and come up with actionable plans that will mean better health outcomes for our community.

“I would like to thank our local organisations who participated in yesterday’s launch at my office, for your commitment and enthusiasm and

I look forward to working with Mayor Fowler on the Lindsay City to Lakes event.” said Ms McIntosh.

For enquiries relating to the Lindsay Healthy Active Living Network or the Lindsay City to Lakes event, please contact the office of Melissa McIntosh MP, Federal Member for Lindsay.

New police recruits join Nepean and Blue Mountains area commands

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomes today’s announcement that 269 new recruits join the NSW Police Force following an attestation ceremony in Goulburn last week.

“I offer my congratulations the new recruits on attesting from the academy after more than eight months of world-class training and look forward to welcoming 13 of them to the Nepean and Blue Mountains Area Commands,” said Stuart Ayres.

“Penrith is in safer hands with more officers joining the ranks today,” Stuart Ayres said.

“I wish them every success in their policing careers. Being sworn in as a police officer is a great honour and I commend these new recruits for making the brave decision to put the community’s

safety ahead of their own.”

A total of 269 students attested today in front of family, friends and other dignitaries, including 177 men and 92 women. Twenty-nine recruits were born overseas in countries including Iraq, Croatia and Wales.

Nineteen of the new recruits are from an Indigenous background, including five who have come through the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) Program to boost Aboriginal Australians in the NSW Police Force.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the State would be a safer place with the new recruits assigned to local Police Area Commands across NSW.

“I want to welcome each and every attesting recruit to the police family, and pay particular mention to the nineteen Indigenous new recruits who will become strong leaders in their communities,” Mr Elliott said.

NSW Police Force Commissioner Mick Fuller said the attestation was an important milestone for recruits.

“Today is a day to celebrate. Our newest recruits have worked extremely hard to be standing on the parade ground,” Commissioner Fuller said.

“Next week they will discover the great sense of pride and responsibility that comes from donning the blue uniform. I welcome them to the NSW Police Force.”

Transport for NSW: The Northern Road reopened ahead of schedule

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otorists are advised The Northern Road between Glenmore Parkway and Elizabeth Drive has reopened more than 24 hours ahead of schedule.

The temporary closure was in place to allow for the safe installation of a large water main across the width of The Northern Road as part of the $1.6 billion upgrade.

Once the entire upgrade is complete in 2022, it will improve transport connections between Penrith, the M4 Motorway, Western Sydney Airport and surrounding developments.

Motorists are thanked for their patience during

the temporary closure.

Motorists are also reminded to plan ahead for the temporary closure of Mulgoa Road and Castlereagh Road between Jane Street and Thornton Drive in early September.

The full closure will be in place between 10pm Friday 6 and 5am Monday 9 September to allow for essential work ahead of a new rail bridge being installed in December.

During the closure, motorists will be detoured via The Northern Road via Andrews Road on the northern side and Jane Street on the southern side of the railway line.

Alternative access to Museum Drive will be available via Combewood Avenue for access to the Museum of Fire.

Access for local residents, pedestrians, cyclists and emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times during the closures.

Road work signs and traffic controllers will guide road users through the temporary changes and detours while they are in place.

The community and motorists will continue to be updated about changes in the area and are thanked for their ongoing patience while work is carried out on these important upgrades.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Forget City to Surf, Penrith will have City to Lakes

13

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

14

local news

Rat bait poisoning leads to blood transfusion

R

alph the French Bulldog was rushed to the clinic because he was feeling very lethargic and seemed to be breathing quite heavily. Dr Erin was able to immediately perform blood tests at the clinic which revealed that Ralph’s blood was not clotting properly, causing him respiratory distress.

It was soon discovered that Ralph had eaten rat bait while visiting his parent’s property a few days earlier.

Ralph was placed on nasal oxygen to assist with his breathing and an intravenous plasma transfusion was started.

Rat bait kills by interfering with the ability of the body to produce clotting factors. It does this by abolishing the recycling of vitamin K in the body

which is a vital step in the clotting cascade. This means that as soon as vitamin K reserves are depleted, no blood clots will form. After rat bait is ingested, it takes several days to deplete vitamin K. After it is depleted, even the smallest trauma like a small cut can lead to life threatening bleeding.

Signs of poisoning usually appear a few days to a week after ingestion.

This happens because it takes a few days to deplete vitamin K. Signs include lethargy, pale gums, bleeding gums, coughing blood, blood in urine or stools and small bruises over the body.

Diagnosis is made through history and based on a blood test that can check clotting times. If your animal ingests rat bait in the previous few hours, the vet can give your dog a medicine that will make them vomit; this allows most of the toxin to be removed from the body. An antidote for rat bait is available and is given for 4-6 weeks post ingestion; unfortunately, this long course is required as rat bait can last in the system for an extended period of time.

Unfortunately, Ralph had suffered from blood loss into his lungs and required further treatment involving

a whole blood transfusion. This was kindly donated by Ripley the German Shepherd (owned by one of our Greencross Vets nurses).

After five days of intensive care, a plasma transfusion, a blood transfusion, intravenous fluids and vitamin K supplements, Ralph was feeling much better and has since made a full recovery … and a friend for life in Ripley.

If you think that your pet has ingested rat bait seek immediate veterinary treatment and phone your nearest Greencross Vet: 02 4731 3055.

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

Can you help reunite these pets with their families?

When a pet goes missing it is a particularly distressing time for any owner.

Have you seen any of our missing pets?

Do you recognise any of the pets who have been found?

There’s a facebook page called Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals and they are exceptionally good at reuniting lost pets with their owners. If you have any information regarding any of our featured pets, please head to the page and scroll for the owner’s information. Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

MISSING

Boxer from Castlereagh

MISSING Oxley Park

MISSING

Two staffies from Colyton

MISSING Bella from St Clair

local news

T

he annual dinner launching the St Marys Spring Festival was held last week at St Marys Band Club, which is also the time each year that St Marys announces its Citizen of the Year.

Betty Murray is the 2019 St Marys Citizen of the Year and will have pride of place at the beginning of the St Marys Spring Festival, Grand Parade.

“The 2019 Spring Festival Launch Dinner at the St Marys Band Club was a great night with more than 60 people in attendance and a special congratulations to Betty Murray as winner of our Citizen of the Year Award,” said Sue Fryer, Business Development Manager at St Marys Town Centre.

“Betty’s surprise and subsequent speech captivated the audience and it was a truly wonderful feeling to see her so grateful to receive an award she so justly deserves.

“Over the years Betty has worked on a number of safety initiatives to help improve the safety of pedestrians in St Marys.

“She has approached Penrith City Council to get a footpath in Jacka Street, St Marys. She has worked with Council and St Marys Village Shopping Centre to get a footpath between Carinya Avenue and the shopping complex.

“This has been completed and makes the area safe for pedestrians, and some call it ‘Bettys Path.’

And that is just the tip of the ice berg, Sue added.

10 year old Molly Shaw received thunderous applause when she sang two songs. She formed part of the entertainment, the other singer was the lovely Julia Parashko, who is Molly’s singing teacher

“The list of initiatives that she has been involved in and the list of improvements that she has identified and taken to the relevant government authorities is too long to list.

“She really is a local legend who is working hard to keep our community safe. She was the obvious choice for this year’s St Marys Citizen of the Year.

“St Marys is lucky to have someone as civic minded and as dedicated as Betty.

“Come down at noon on Saturday 7th September and watch Betty in the Grand Parade. Bring the family down to Queen St, St Marys where you are bound to find something for the whole family to enjoy.”

Lock in regular hall hire for 2020 and 2021

A

pplications are now open for community groups and businesses to secure a regular spot in a community centre or hall for 2020 and 2021 calendar years.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the city boasted a number of premier venues for hire, with most facilities offering air-conditioning.

“It’s great that Council can support a lively and close-knit community by providing affordable hire of local facilities,” Cr Fowler said.

This year, almost 200 groups used Council facilities, including playgroups, dance groups, youth

activities and seniors groups.

With some 40 community facilities across Penrith available for hire including the Jordan Springs Community Hub and Thornton Community Centre, community groups can nominate their preferred regular meeting space for up to two years. Local businesses may also utilise facilities offering affordable office and meeting space.

There are a range of spaces available to suit small and large activities and new groups are always welcome to book. Check out the features on our website at penrith.city/halls

Express your interest now in hiring a facility for up to two years. Applications are open between 26 August and 20 September 2019. An application form can be downloaded from Council’s website at penrith.city/hallhire or by contacting the Neighbourhood Facilities team on 4732 8021 or facilities@penrith.city Where multiple groups apply to use the same facility, priority will be given to the groups that best demonstrate a local need for their activity. Groups interested in hiring facilities managed by a volunteer committee will be referred to the relevant centre.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

St Marys has a new citizen of the year

15

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

16

local news

Local young Labor activists demand a raise to newstart

M

embers of NSW Young Labor across Sydney held a Day of Action in Penrith as part of NSW Young Labor’s Newstart Week of Action.

As part of NSW Young Labor’s Newstart Week of Action, members from across New South Wales are calling on the Morrison Government to raise the rate of Newstart from what they say is 40 dollars a day.

NSW Young Labor Executive for Greater Western Sydney, David Badea said the group were out talking to people.

“We are speaking to members of our community to shed light on the impact the Newstart freeze has on young people in Western Sydney,” he said.

“Newstart hasn’t increased since 1994, before most of our members weren’t even born.

“It’s no wonder why so many young people are disillusioned with politics when they’re just struggling to get by. Mr Morrison says that if you have a go, you’ll get a go, but its young

people who have the most to lose from Newstart being capped at 40 dollars a day.”

NSW Young Labor is the largest youth political organisation in the country.

Past NSW Young Labor Presidents include former NSW Premier Bob Carr, former Prime Minister Paul Keating and current Federal Labor Leader, Anthony Albanese.

Prue Car’s Daffodil Day event raises over $10,000

L

ondonderry MP Prue Car held a very successful Daffodil Day event last week to raise much-needed funds for cancer research and support.

The event was held at St Marys RSL with Sophie

Cotsis MP, who was the guest speaker and is a breast cancer survivor.

“It was wonderful to host my local Daffodil Day fundraiser again this year in St Marys to support the wonderful work of the Cancer Council,” Ms Car said.

“Thank you to all the local residents who came together to support family, friends and neighbours affected by cancer. Together we raised over $10,000 for the Cancer Council.”

local news

T

he Lions Club of Emu Plains in conjunction with the Australian Lions Foundation have provided three new recliner chairs for the Discharge Lounge of the Emergency Department at Nepean Hospital.

The chairs cost a total of $5,472 for the three, with the club raising half and the Australian Lions Foundation matching them dollar for dollar.

“The chairs will not only provide comfort for those patients undergoing treatment at the Emergency Department, they will also allow the Department to be more efficient in their handling of the discharge of patients,” said Emu Plains Lions Publicity Officer Jim Devine.

The chairs were supplied by Dalcross Medical Equipment, an Australian company.

Emu Plains Lions Club President, Alan Cooper, said the support received by local shoppers made the donation possible.

“It’s a donation we were able to make because of the support provided by the local community at the Chocolate Wheel held at Westfield Plaza, Penrith each Saturday,” he said.

“We have also previously supported the Cancer Care Centre at

Nepean Hospital with two Oncology Treatment chairs in February 2018, again with assistance from ALF.”

Australian Lions Foundation District Chairman, Steve Holley, added “The Foundation helps Lions

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Chocolate wheel rolls out result for hospital

17

Clubs in Australia to build and deliver great humanitarian results for local communities.”

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

18

HEALTH

Nita

Ask

The lip filler journey

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

D

ay 1. “My lips are thin I think I’ll try filler” Day 2. Too Big, I know I was told there would be some swelling.

“Please take it out!”

Day 3. Bruised and maybe lumpy.

“I’m regretting this!”

Day 4. Getting used to them.

“Looking good with lipstick on!”

Week 1. “I LOVE my new lips!”

Week 2. “I miss my swelling!”

Week 3. “I want more filler!”

When you decide to have lip filler be prepared for that emotional journey. Depending on the type of filler, there will be swelling in the first few days.

The amount of swelling varies from individual to individual. Occasionally the swelling is associated with a bit of bruising. If an artery is pierced by the

needle the bruise could be quite substantial leaking to the surrounding tissue and causing bruising outside the lips. Most of the time the bruising is limited depending on the injectors technique.

Avoid taking anti- inflammatory medication, Aspirin, fish oil, for at least a week before your filler is done as they thin the blood. However, if you are on blood thinners for medical reasons and can’t stop them just be prepared for some bruising.

Having fillers during your menstrual periods also tend to result in more bruising.

Avoid heavy exercise immediately after your treatment and avoid alcohol as well because they produce vasodilation (blood vessels expand) which leads to bruising.

Always check with your practitioner, to see how likely you will swell or bruise before you have lip fillers especially if there is an important event.

Give yourself at least 4 weeks prior to a special event. Brides-to-be please don’t do your lips close to your wedding date. Do them at least 3 months prior to give the practitioner time to perfect them, (if they need to be corrected.)

Stay hydrated as lip filler deflates when dehydrated.

There are various types of fillers. An experienced injector will know which filler has the rheology to obtain the result you’re seeking.

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local news

T

he Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs, Mr Jason Wood MP joined the Federal Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP this week to announce the $1 million Community Safety Package to install lighting along the Great River Walk from Jamison Road to Nepean Avenue.

The Assistant Minister also joined the Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh MP and Gai Hawthorne, CEO of Penrith CBD Corporation for the announcement of $35,000 to install CCTV cameras in High Street, Penrith.

“We committed over $1 million for the Great River Walk safety upgrade project and it is great to see that this will provide extra safety to people in Lindsay. People deserve to feel safe.” said Assistant Minister Wood.

Ms McIntosh said “I met with local business owners and with community representatives such as Gai Hawthorn of the Penrith CBD Corporation during the campaign. We have worked hard to deliver this infrastrcuture and we have ensured that local residents and families accessing the Nepean River can feel safe.

The lack of lighting near the Great River Walk has been a concern for some residents, particularly women and this funding will deliver lighting from end to end so everyone can enjoy our river,” Ms McIntosh said.

This commitment was part of a $1.2 million package as part of the Morrison Government’s Community Safety Package. Penrith Council will also receive funding for the installation of CCTV cameras in Kingswood – around the shopping village on Bringelly Road, Werrington – Shops alongs Victoria Street and St Mary’s – Veness Place carpark.

“This safety package is part of My Plan for Lindsay and I look forward to working with our local organisations to see the CCTV cameras and lighting delivered.” said Ms McIntosh.

Creative designs from young local minds

Y

ear 5 students from Oxley Park Public School visited Council on Monday to share their ideas for a new playground design at Brian King Reserve in Oxley Park. The students presented their preferred design to Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. The school is participating in the annual Penrith Mayoral Challenge where they are asked by the Mayor to create a design for an inclusive play space in their neighbourhood. The students work with staff from Council

to get out and listen to other children, young people and park users to ask what will make a great playground in their community. The students participate in workshops where they learn about government, decision making, listening and technical skills such as design, landscape and biodiversity.

The presentation by the students was highly creative, proudly showing their design and also presenting their ideas through dance and a rap.

Councillor Fowler was impressed

by the enthusiasm of the students and the care taken to bring a design to Council that is fun, but also considers the needs of all of the community.

“My fellow Councillors and I are very proud of the students and delighted by their creativity,” Cr Fowler said.

“One of the greatest challenges for the students is to bring forward a design that can be achieved within budget, just like in real life this means that there are some hard decisions that have to be made and the students rose

to the challenge”.

Impressed with the maturity that the students had demonstrated, Cr Fowler said, “Oxley Park Public School is doing a great job in preparing the future leaders of our city.”

Council expects construction of the new playground at Brian King Reserve, Oxley Park to be complete early next year. A launch event will be held when construction is completed with the community being invited to celebrate the new play space with the young park designers.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Melissa McIntosh addresses security across Penrith

19

Legends of the Nepean Jonnie Russell

By Noel Rowsell

S

inger / Songwriter Jonnie Russell was born in Guildford, NSW in 1942 and attended Colyton PS and Penrith HS during his childhood years.

Jon’s interest in music began in his preteens, after listening to Tex Morton and later Hank Williams on the family radio.

At age 14, Jon was invited to sing on Radio Station 2KA, appearing three times during that year then, at age 17, he won the Alan Toohey Amateur Hour on Radio 2UW, singing the Don Gibson hit song ‘Oh Lonesome Me’.

That success led in turn to quite a few offers of work, including a 2-year stint at the Collingwood Hotel in the Sydney suburb of Liverpool, where Jon featured in a Cabaret type show with various musicians including well known piano man George Boyer.

Jon gained a wealth of experience doing the ‘Hard Yards’ of the Industry, working the Sydney Club and Hotel circuit as well

as holding down a day job as a clerk in a city office.

His dream of doing music and being fully involved in show-biz was now stronger than ever and in 1969, Jon embarked on a full-time career in Country Music, performing in Australia, New Zealand and the USA during his career.

Jon appeared on the Reg Lyndsay Country Homestead Show on Channel 9 in Brisbane and performed his first Country Music Show (The Jonnie Russell All-Star Show) to a capacity audience in the Music Room at the Sydney Opera House in 1974.

In 1981, on his first visit to Nashville, Jon was invited to do several guest spots and recorded two tracks at Music Mill Studios, with production by award -winning producer Harold Shedd.

Those two tracks were Andy King compositions ‘Make My Coffee Black’ and ‘I Feel Loved’.

Jon was inducted to the Tamworth ‘Hall of Honour’ in 1984 and represented Australia at the International Showcase

Jonnie Russell was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Noel Rowsell.

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

Photos were supplied by Jonnie Russell.

at ‘Fan Fair’ in Nashville in 1986.

Other career highlights include an appearance on the Carl Tipton TV Show on W.T.V.F. Channel 5 out of Nashville and appearing at Montmarte Nightclub in Auckland, NZ. Jon was inducted into the “Hall of Fame” (Walk of Honour) in Barmera, South Australia in 1999.

As a promoter Jon has organized

and produced many top line country music concerts in theatres and clubs around the suburbs of Sydney, featuring many of Australia’s best known acts.

Jon said he has always had a passionate interest in Australian History, in particular Australian aviation.

He said “ My late father, who was a

school teacher, had always impressed upon me from an early age how important it was to learn about our early history and heritage.”

Through the years this has led to Jon writing several songs about aviation including ‘The Immortal Southern Cross’ (which is his tribute to Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith, his famous aircraft and their epic 1928 Trans-

Pacific flight).

The song ‘Solo Woman’ was written

by Jon as a tribute to Gaby Kennard (the first Australian woman to fly solo around the world in 1989).

Jon also wrote ‘America’s Unsung Hero’ as a tribute to American WWll hero Audie Murphy, America’s most decorated soldier.

Jon said “I love writing songs about people who have achieved special things in their life.”

Another of Jon’s songs which proved very popular locally was ‘Sydney Public Transport Blues’, a favourite of Radio 2UE’s Mike Carlton.

He also wrote ‘My Heart’s In A Prison’ and ‘Loving You’, which are both traditional love songs.

Now in his 70’s but performing like a man half his age, Jon is still fronting his All-Star Show and will be at the Gaels on 22nd September for his Memorial Show to commemorate Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith.

Jon also has another tribute show in the planning for 2020, which will be held at the State Theatre in Sydney and feature aviator Gaby Kennard among the special guests.

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

22

NEPEAN HISTORY

Old St Marys

permission. Matthew, who was only 16 years of age pleaded guilty, but stated that he was on a road through the property. The PM said that if n 1882 in the Nepean Times, “Japonica” he was brought up on a similar charge, he would wrote about the “Battle of Victoria Square” have to prove that it was a Government Road. He mentioned in my History Page in June last was fined 12/4d costs with the Bench in favour year. The next year, the townsfolk commemorated of William to warn others from trespassing the first anniversary of “the great battle for there. It is interesting to note that in 1887 in the Victoria Square at South Creek”. A whole Supreme Court of NSW the estate of Thomas bullock was roasted and everyone was invited to Harford (mentioned earlier) a St Marys tanner the free food and athletic sports, such as several regarding the proof of debts on his insolvency foot races arranged so people of all ages took and whether Thomas would be allowed to retain part. That same month in Penrith Police Court, his household furniture, wearing apparel, beds, Joseph Blackmore was charged “with allowing bedding and tools of trade or whether they are eight of his cattle to stray about the streets of St sold to be payment of his debt totalling over Marys”, and a charge from Constable Abbott £100. In 1891, Andrew Morrison died in St against Thomas Harford and Thomas Parker for Marys leaving a wife and a large grown family.

“Hindering the Police” who were trying to arrest He was born on Piper’s Farm near Luddenham a prisoner at St Marys and being hampered by where he lived and worked for about 41 years the men because they didn’t want him to hurt and later moved to St Marys where he opened Source: Nepean Times, the man. After a few eyewitnesses to the like of a baker and confectioner’s shop. He died after The Late Albert Evans photo.

George Page and William Fleming, the whole a lingering illness of twelve months, mainly thing became farcical and it was eventually from consumption of the bowels and internal called a “no case” and the case dismissed. A year later another bullock complaints at the age of 55 years. John Hackett’s little boy Raymond roast and sports day was held on “Victoria Square,” and there was a aged 13 months died in 1893 at his parent’s residence. His funeral was good attendance, not only by the residents of the district but also by followed to the grave at St Mary Magdalene cemetery by about 100 visitors from Sydney and the Hawkesbury. In attendance there was people, among them several little girls wearing white crape. Another John King Lethbridge and several Aldermen, and after the festivities death occurred at Tottenham Park, three miles from St Marys when a night ball was held in the Protestant Hall. The annual bullock roast George Charker was found dead in bed. After an enquiry Dr Brady and sports day continued in 1886 and it was bigger than the last one. found that George died of senile decay. He was 75 years of age and A Committee was formed and called the “Bullock Roast and Sports well known in the district. Another old resident, Mrs Fuller (Nee: at St Marys,” including George Bennett (judge), Thomas Tolhurst Faithfull) was the wife of the schoolmaster at the Colyton Public (referee), Nat McCook (starter), William Garner (treasurer), James School. She was very much loved and respected all over the district Richard Woodlands (secretary) and several others. At the time, it and had been ailing for a very long time, suffering mainly from senile was said that “the Square” was in every way suitable for recreational decay and died at the age of around 80 years. She was buried at St purposes and Penrith and many other towns may well envy St Marys Mary Magdalene cemetery. Also that same year someone wilfully her little Park. The original fight for the park was being remembered set fire to the premises known as Brown’s Store opposite the St as the “standard of freedom,” that “Jack” Dowling protected with Marys railway station and Andrew “Andy” Thompson was making the greatest valour and not likely to be forgotten. In those good old considerable improvements to the tannery he purchased off Mr days gone by, when all sorts of things were said about the Park and Forsyth. Erecting a large shed, to be used as a drying shed, built the Supreme Court action that finally decided it was the property by well-known local carpenters “Sainsbury and Son”. A meeting of of the public and not of a private individual named James Hackett.

St Marys Council in 1893 mentions Caddens Road, (also known as Back then when John Morrison and William Garner first handled “Mystery Lane”) in such poor condition that a motion was moved the butcher’s knife and handed round chunks of roast bullock of to spend £10 to make it safe. The problem was that Council didn’t luscious quality and Toby Ryan and John Harris “scooted” around, know who owned the foot reserve along the side of the road and they with 600 people present including John Harris (senior and junior), J had written to Dr Shand who owned the adjoining property, asking K Lethbridge, Messrs:- Morrison, Garner, and Gassman in their old him if he would consent to either sell or give the lane so that the road position of cutting and carving up that bullock donated by James might be made six-feet wide. Dr Shand declined to give his consent Bennett (Jnr) and old Billy Masters handing around the tempting because he said “that part of the land was the most valuable of all, pieces and picking out the nice little pieces for his lady friends until due to plenty of water on it”. The chairman of the Council mentioned there was little left but the skeleton. The meat splendidly cooked by his conversation with Mr Caddens who pointed out that it was not chef John Maskey and excellent music throughout the day from the a private road as it had been purchased for the convenience of the Brass Band. Constables Bressington and Hopkins kept the peace purchasers of the Penrith Hill estate. Photo shows the Bunya Pine in throughout the day until at a particular time they were called away to a Victoria Park 1971. ruckus that was taking place across the road at the ”Volunteer Hotel”.

St Marys Spring Festival - Please don’t forget to come and say hi Also in 1886, William Fleming was having a problem in the Penrith at our stall 84 near the St Marys’ Library and our “Back to St Marys Court House with Matthew Connors trespassing on his enclosed Reunion” on Sunday 8th September (10am-3pm) at the Chambers land known as Bull’s Bush without a lawful excuse and without building on St Marys Precinct – Cnr of Mamre Rd & the Highway.

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

I

OFFER ENDS 30 September 2019

Offer ends 30/9/2019. See in Store for Terms and Conditions.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

24

local news

Fathers Day: here’s a few of the best Dad jokes Yes, we know they’re corny. We can already hear you groan. But they just wouldn’t fall under the banner of dad joke if they were funny!

Why couldn’t the bike stand up by itself? It was two tired.

I used to have a job making calendars but I got the sack when I took a couple of days off.

Want to hear a joke about construction? I’m still working on it.

The furniture shop keeps calling me. All I wanted was one night stand.

I asked dad if he got a haircut: He said he got them all cut.

I bought some shoes from a drug dealer. I don’t know what he laced them with, but I was tripping all day!

Did you know the first French fries weren’t actually cooked in France? They were cooked in Greece.

If a child refuses to sleep during nap time, are they guilty of resisting a rest?

The secret service isn’t allowed to yell “Get down!” anymore when the president is about to be attacked. Now they have to yell “Donald, duck!”

I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. It’s impossible to put down!

What do you call someone with no body and no nose?

Nobody knows.

I ordered a chicken and an egg to be home delivered.

I’ll let you know.

I’ll call you later. Don’t call me later, call me Dad!

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ENTERTAINMENT

Spencer : A new Australian comedy-drama

oin the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition silver medallist and Sydney International Piano Competition Grand finalist, Kenny Broberg, in recital for one night only at The Joan on Saturday 7 September at 7.30pm.

An outstanding soloist, Kenny Broberg is also the grand finalist and Third Prize winner of the 2019 International Tchaikovsky Competition recently held in Moscow; his playing now demanded worldwide.

On 7 September, Kenny will perform on The Joan’s very own “Rolls Royce of pianos”, the Imperial Bösendorfer, handcrafted in Austria as the largest of all concert grand pianos and favoured by artists world-wide.

It is worth upwards of $200,000 and can handle even the most complex of pieces, due to its inclusion of 97 keys, as opposed to a normal 88-key piano.

The programme for the evening will consist of an alluring set of movements and compositions; the first that of Johann Sebastian Bach from his famed sets of prelude and fugues. Audiences can expect to hear the beautiful Fantaisie; one of Chopin’s longest and greatest works,

old over the course of one weekend in a suburban Australian family home, Spencer tells the story of a tightknit family led by single-mum matriarch Marilyn and her three adult children – wayward daughter Jules, mouthy coulda- been Ben and AFL golden-boy Scott.

About to meet the young son – Spencer – he never knew he had, Scott and the family have returned home to help mark the occasion.

With the surprise appearance of Ian, the father they barely remember, the entire family is forced to work together to clean up both the house and their own fractured relationships as the clock ticks down to Spencer’s arrival.

Starring Jane Clifton (Prisoner) and Roger Oakley (Home & Away) and supported by Lyall Brooks (A Prudent Man), Jamieson Caldwell and Fiona Harris, Spencer employs classic Australian vernacular, lashings of humour, and recognisable characters that ask us to consider how much our family defines who we are, if we can exist without them and whether we ever really grow up…

J

as well as all six movements of Claude Debussy’s Children’s Corner, the famous and uplifting suite of works dedicated to the French composer’s daughter.

This spring, The Joan and the Competition welcome Kenny to Australia for his debut tour of the country. Audiences can expect to hear sublime playing that will undoubtedly confirm Kenny as one of the next great talents of the piano.

Don’t miss your chance to hear this extraordinary young artist when he appears for one night only at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 7 September at 7.30pm.

Tickets: Adults $45, Concession $40, Under 30s $30, Family $120.

For more information and to book tickets please visit: www.thejoan. com.au/events/kenny-broberg/

T

A brand new 90-minute comedydrama looking at a gloriously dysfunctional Australian family; this is modern story telling at its best!

Audience advice: Strong language.

Adult themes CAST & CREATIVES Jane Clifton, Roger Oakley, Fiona Harris, Jamieson Caldwell & Lyall Brooks / Cast Katy Warner / Writer Tickets: Standard $60, Concession $55, Under 30’s $30, Seniors’ Matinee $30.

For more information and bookings please visit: www.thejoan.com.au/ events/spencer/

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Kenny Broberg: Award winning american pianist

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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ENTERTAINMENT

VIETNAM VETERANS DAY The local community commemorated Vietnam Vets Day on August 18. Hosted by St Marys Sub-branch at St Marys RSL with special guest Major General {Retired} Jim Molan AO DSC.

Lots of fun was had at last weekend’s Penrith Show The winners of our Win a Spin with Team D Max had a great experience!

Congratulations to our winners Mel Logan and Stephen Goodridge who each got to take a friend with them.

Photos: Noel Rowsell

Social Butterfly

Meet Peppa Pig 12:30pm (Coachmans Park stage) 1:30pm (Coachmans Park stage) 2:30pm (Belar St Stage)

Over 200 stalls, food trucks and displays Live Band 3 Way Split will be appearing between 11.30am and 3pm on the Carsons Lane stage Entertainment for the whole family

Please check the website for more information on road closures

ENTERTAINMENT

C

lear your diary. The St Marys Spring Festival is nearly here and is an event definitely not to be missed.

Celebrate the beginning of spring and bring the family down to Queen St, St Marys for what promises to be a great family day out.

There will be stalls, food, children’s entertainment, a grand parade and much more. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

Martin Coote, Chairman of St Marys Town Centre is looking forward to

sharing the event with the community.

“The St Marys Spring Festival has a very large local and regional community appeal and this year we are pretty excited about our special guest, Peppa Pig,” he said.

Peppa Pig will be appearing in two children’s shows that will take the audience on a song and dance, problem solving journey. Children will be able to participate in sing a longs, choreographed routines and work with Peppa Pig and her friends.

Martin hopes that families from far

and wide converge on Coachman’s Park at 1.30pm and 2.30pm to see Peppa Pig in action.

There will be many new attractions at this year’s event, so make sure you head to St Marys for a fun filled day.

This family friendly, free event is on Saturday 7th September from 9am – 3pm.

For more information on the event please visit www.stmarystowncentre. com.au

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Spring festival: Peppa Pig and many new attractions

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ENTERTAINMENT

A

cultural change is coming to the West say hello to the Lakeside Long Lunch! This event is being touted as not just the West’s Premier Food and Wine Event, but Sydney’s premier event too.

The 28th of September this year dawns a new era in festivals for the Greater-Penrith region.

The Sydney International Regatta is partnering with Lakeside Long Lunch (LLL) to put on the festival that Penrith deserves.

The concept? It’s easy. The LLL provides a one stop wine tour of Australia’s favourite wine destinations.

Partnering with brands such as Robert Oatley, Hentley Farm, Bimbadgen Estate and even Piper-Heidsieck (for the champagne enthusiasts amongst us), the LLL brings you the best of our Hunter, Barossa, Yarra, Margaret River and Central West wine regions.

It doesn’t stop at wine - your ticket includes a gourmet meal from the Lakeside Pavilion which, accompanied by some seriously high-end food truck providers, will have the foodies licking their lips.

Food and wine, is that it? Absolutely not. The LLL has assembled an impressive list of performers for allday live entertainment (from acts such as Voli K and Suite Az, Rocklily and Cargo Bar favourites) to keep you moving all day long. Paired with activations such as an adults only ball pit, silent disco and bucking bull - there will be something to keep revellers occupied all day long.

It’s a long way away from the Wild West of old but it surely heralds a cultural transformation of the Penrith region. For better or for worse - The Lakeside Long Lunch looks to shake up those misconceptions of what the foothills of the Blue Mountains is all about.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Everybody is talking about Lakeside Long Lunch

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ENTERTAINMENT

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU: EASY

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

34

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

SOLUTIONS: 9 May EASY

MEDIUM

BUZZ ALDRIN BUZZ ALDRIN

NASA

EVA

MOON

KOREAN WAR

AUTHOR

TEST PILOT

DISNEY’S RECESS

APOLLO

SPACE WALK WORK

WEST POINT

EDWIN

ANTARTICA

GOAT

COLONEL

UFO

CROSSWORD ACROSS 9 Fortified wine (7) 10 Boorish (7) 11 Collective farm (7) 12 Commit (7) 13 Card game (9) 15 Fifty-eight in Roman

numerals (5) 16 Photographic equipment (7) 19 Not the sixth (7) 20 Form of Japanese poetry (5) 21 Never stopping (9) 25 Hotel employee (7) 26 Having passed (7) 28 Found in mouths (7) 29 Easing of tensions between

nations (7)

DOWN 1 Cigarettes (slang) (6) 2 Pertaining to a clan or family (6) 3 Hawaiian island (4) 4 Japanese cheer (6) 5 Nighttime footwear (8) 6 European country (10) 7 Relating to Sicily (8) 8 Nagging (8) 14 From first to last (10) 16 Lives together (8) 17 Not on an island (8) 18 Person who is habitually

sullen (8) 22 Religious doctrines (6) 23 Crazy (6) 24 Contraptions (6) 27 Fifth book of the New

Testament (4)

solution 15/8/19

Cnr Glebe Place & Richmond Road Kingswood NSW Ph: (02) 4722 8180 www.penrithgaels.com.au

Father’s Day Raffle Our “Beer for a Year” Father’s Day raffle is back by popular demand!

Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5

Drawn on Sunday 1st September after the regualr Sunday night raffle

SATURDAY 14 SEPT, 8.30PM FREE ENTRY!

In the JA Room

Shamrock Grill SPECIALS

LUNCH 12 - 2.30pm - LUNCH SPECIALS $10

The complete Irish Dance Program for Preschoolers ★ Jump’n Jig is designed to help preschoolers develop coordination, self-esteem & social skills through dance, music and play ★ The program is divided into three levels to ensure classes can be modified for children of different ages & gross motor skills development.

Come try at... Penrith Gaels Maher, School of Irish Dance Contact Maria Maher-Astley TCRG - 0417 063 441 penrithgaelsmaher@jumpnjig.com.au | www.jumpnjig.com.au

MONDAY Barramundi Night $15 TUESDAY Steak & Ale Night $15 WEDNESDAY Bangers & Mash Night $15 THURSDAY Parmy Night $15

Between 5 & 8pm (Conditions apply) SUNDAY - Sunday Roast $17.50 Members $18.50 Non Members

FREE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY 30 AUG - 8PM JJ Duo

SATURDAY 31 AUG - 7PM Lloyd Bowden Duo

SUNDAY 1 SEPT - 8PM Soul Jamz

FRIDAY 6 SEPT - 8PM Steppin Out

SATURDAY 7 SEPT - 7PM Felicity Robinson Duo

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.

ENTERTAINMENT

R

ichmond Club’s new bistro restaurant – Villaggio – is a whole new experience for Hawkesbury diners. Part sports bar, part lounge and all-welcoming family brasserie, the award-winning Villaggio brand offers a hearty menu with handsome portion sizes, meaning excellent value for the family – what you expect at a community club.

Villaggio delivers all the favourites - burgers, steaks, schnitzel, roasts, pizza, pasta and mouthwatering desserts - including churros, gelato, waffles and Nutella pizza.

It also has an all-day seniors menu and kids menu. The bold buffet-tobistro renovation in June saw the expansive 650-seat Star Buffet quickly transition into the fully operational Villaggio bistro restaurant within 16 days. Villaggio’s stylish black, silver and gold décor, features sumptuous lounge areas, sports bar, big screen TVs, ornate mirrors, marble coffee tables, studded-leather bar highchairs and mood lighting, making it a welcoming meeting place for friends and family. Villaggio Richmond Club has expanded the club’s service style, atmosphere and cuisine with its hearty, family-orientated Mediterraneaninspired menu and vibrant social sports bar spin.

coming months, so keep watching our Facebook page for news.”

The Villaggio brand is owned by twins, Simon and Harry Kanaan.

Their “secret” special light-andairy mixture designer dough, is the foundation for their melt-in-the-mouth Italian pizza bases, wraps and breads.

Their friendly, welcoming service, together with the easy listening Friday night live music, further enhance the Villaggio experience.

Experience Villaggio Richmond Club, open from 11.30am seven days. Weekend bookings are recommended for groups.

Ph: 4578 1144.

“As a club we are always evolving and listening to what our membership wants. We aim to continue our focus on being a ‘true destination’ club for families,” Group CEO Kimberley Talbot said.

“We’re incorporating a new Mediterranean buffet within our new function options, and have a series of exciting events planned for the

Gateway with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Healthy Mind, Healthy Body!

Another saying that has similar: “Power is As you think, so you are!

I guess many of my writings over the years, have had a theme that says, “Talk your life up!

Don’t talk it down!”

A negative attitude always makes you sick!

That’s a fact!.

Show me a whinger that isn’t sick.

I have no doubts about having said all that!

One of my favourite guidelines is to say, “Don’t wast any time with whingers, they will only exhaust you!”

You will attain great health, if you feed your mind only fresh and Inspiring thoughts.

Thoughts that will only inspire you into a happy worthwhile life.

Go through the Positive Gateway!

Cheers, Ross Hutchison, (Rossco)

Mike’s Pantry with Michael Creed from Thor’s Cafe Penrith

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 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Experience Villaggio at Richmond Club

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS Ask the Expert - Selling When Separating: two parties on the same page

S

eparation and divorce can be an extremely unsettling and stressful time. With one or both parties having to move, finances to get in order, and professionals to engage to help with the process, it is a push at best to move through this difficult time.

Naturally, an ideal scenario is that both partners are on the same page when it comes to a property sale. This may seem impossible with heightened

emotion and misaligned objectives that can cause Sharon roadblocks along the Mudiman way. However, it can be Licensee and Principal of Bespoke done, and in the interests Realty Group has of both homeowners, an been negotiating unwavering commitment the sale of property to achieve the best sales for over twenty-five years in the Greater results is well worth the Penrith Region effort.

More often than not, a family home will go into a pool of assets held by a former couple, to be divided at a later date. It is rare that one partner can afford to buy out the other half of the home, however, if this is an option, a family lawyer is a good investment to ensure this transaction takes place properly.

If buying out a former partner is not an option and the property is set to sell, it is important to choose an agent that can walk you through this process.

Penrith | Glenmore Park www.bespokerg.com.au 02 4737 9977

Experience is key and concise communication with both partners will help alleviate stress and misunderstanding. With the property considered a matrimonial asset, it is imperative that both parties approve the listing and both parties are informed throughout the process. If at any point, the former partners cannot agree on the sales process, a judge may appoint a third party to manage the sale of the property on behalf of both owners.

The most important thing to remember is that arguing over the small stuff will not pay in the long run. Involving lawyers to separate assets can be an expensive exercise where often no one wins in the end. If a clear objective is set to sell your home, and you have a real estate agent that works as your ally in the process, this can reduce sales time and increase potential returns. Keep the agreed outcome in sight and work with people you can trust to keep your best interests at heart while selling your property.

SPORT

By KeRRIE DAVIES

P

e n r i t h Panthers held their annual Club Grants presentation this week, with many local community groups being the beneficiaries.

“We are incredibly proud and privileged that Panthers are part of the very important club grants process. It gives us the opportunity to help change and influence the lives of a number of people within our community,” said Panthers Chairman Dave O’Neill.

“When selecting the recipients for funding, Panthers determines the successful applicants by supporting local organisations that support the grassroots of our Penrith community, which is in line with our core values.

“Through our category 1 Club Grants Funding Scheme we have donated $333,610 in support of local community initiatives this year.”

Panthers have supported nine different programs targeting youth, disability, indigenous, domestic violence and families at risk, the homeless and the elderly.

“I would like to acknowledge the organisations and the programs

that our recipients are dedicated to; • Panthers on the Prowl • Penrith Community Kitchen • Foundation For Disabled Sportsmen & Sportswomen • Westcare • Christ Mission Possible • The Haven • Gifts of Grace • Learning Links • Our Community Cares (Helping Hands),” Mr O’Neill said.

“We at Panthers are very humbled to be able to offer the funding for all of these well-deserved charities and support agencies. Thank you also to Vesna from Penrith City Council, who

Photos: Greg Davies

spends many hours co-ordinating this program.

“To extend on the ClubGrants program, we would also like to acknowledge the recipients of category 2 funding. These are organisations and community groups that dedicate their time to create the sense of community that we value here at Panthers.

“This funding includes sporting groups, such as Penrith Netball Association, Penrith Valley Sports Foundation, Panthers Snooker Club,

Panthers Social Golf Club, Panthers Euchre Club and our other Sub Clubs.

“We would also like to acknowledge the not for profit organisations including OZWAC, Rotary and the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and their volunteers.

“For the 2018 / 2019 ClubGrants year, we are proud to share that we have contributed $647,048 to the local community and we would like to thank and acknowledge the organisations that made this possible,” Mr O’Neill concluded.

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Local community groups receive Panthers’ Club Grants

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

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SPORT

PVSF Junior Sportsperson Award being able to train with such an amazing coach and supportive team.”

A list of Jordan’s best Swimming achievements: - Bronze in 100m Backstorke at Swimming NSW Metropolitan Championships 2018 - Bronze in 200m Backstorke at Swimming NSW Metropolitan Championships 2018 - Qualifying for Short Course and Long Course State Age Championships in 2017 - Silver in 100m Backstroke at Swimming NSW Metropolitan Championships 2019 - Bronze in 200m Backstroke at Swimming NSW Metropolitan Championships 2019 - Competing at the 2019 National Age Championships Jordan also spoke about her dreams to represent Australia swimming in the Olympics and owning a Physiotherapy business.

“My plans for the future are to keep swimming for a long time to come and to meet my dreams of representing Australia in the Olympic swim team,” she said.

“I hope to graduate high school with an ATAR high enough for a Physiotherapy course at University and to one day become a fully qualified Physiotherapist and work for the Olympic swim team or the Australian swimming team or maybe start my own Physiotherapy business, specifying in sports injuries.”

We would like to congratulate Jordan on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Swimming for the future.

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Jordan Amies from Glenmore Park the Junior Sportsperson Award for the month of July for her amazing development and skill in Swimming.

Jordan began swimming lessons at two-years-old and throughout the next seven years she progressed through each of the ‘learn to swim’ levels. When she was 9-years-old she began the ‘swim for fitness’ and decided after a year she wanted to make swimming her passion and joined the squads program and began swimming competitively.

Jordan spoke about how she felt when told she was nominated for the award and recognised for her talents in swimming.

“When I first was told that I was nominated by my school for this award, my mind was blown,” she said.

“I am so stoked to have been nominated for, and win, the Junior Sports Person of the Month.

“It is a complete honour to have my swimming achievements recognised by both my school and the Penrith Valley Sports Foundation.

“I cannot express the amount of gratitude I have, and I am astonished that Penrith Valley Sports Foundation have chosen me to be the Sports Person of the Month.

“I feel very proud of myself for putting in all of the long hours and hard work into my training and

Leonay GC Grabs Second Win in WSRVGA Inter-Club

By Noel Rowsell

139 golfers from 8 Golf Clubs teed off in the latest Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA) Inter-Club event, which was held at Springwood Country Club on 16th August.

The field of 116 men and 23 women braved ice-cold early morning weather to be rewarded throughout the event by a brilliant sunny Winter’s day.

Players were hoping for some respite following the previous tough round at Glenmore Heritage Valley GC but would be disappointed, with the Springwood course proving a stern test, both on and off the greens.

The slick putting surfaces proved tricky for everyone early in the round but once the wind came up, putting simply became a lottery as players desperately tried to control the ball on the icesmooth surfaces.

As a result, only two players (Robert Gradidge and Frank Keith) finished above handicap, with both ‘smokies’ being new members from Leonay GC who guided their new Club to a win on the day.

Despite grabbing its second win of the season, Leonay could not progress up the points ladder in the race for Club of the Year honours, remaining in 5th spot behind Penrith (1st), Dunheved (2nd), Wallacia (3rd) and reigning Club of the Year Richmond (4th), whilst Springwood (6th), Stonecutters Ridge (7th) and Glenmore Heritage Valley (8th) round out the placings.

Gradidge and Keith were the dominant players on the day, taking out the Men’s 2BBB, finishing first and second respectively in the C Grade singles event and also forming half of the winning four-

Action from the August WSRVGA Inter-Club at Springwood. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

man team in the points score, along with Leonay team-mates Garry Denny and Steve Cromer.

The full list of winners on the day are listed below: A Grade Men Singles: Winner - Gary McSullea (Glenmore), 2nd place - Greg Williams (Dunheved), 3rd place - Steve Loader (Stonecutters); B Grade Men: Winner - Peter Curtis (Wallacia), 2nd place - Steve Pegler (Stonecutters), 3rd place - Paul Portelli (Dunheved); C Grade Men: Winner Robert Gradidge (Leonay), 2nd place - Frank Keith (Leonay), 3rd place - Kevin Hazel (Glenmore).

Women Singles: Winner - Denise Chant (Wallacia), 2nd place - Sarah Dean (Glenmore), 3rd place - Dorothy Willmington (Glenmore).

Men’s 2BBB: Robert Gradidge, Frank Keith (Leonay) 50 points, Runner-Up Kevin Hazel, Michael Dwyer (Glenmore) 44.

Medley 2BBB: Tanya Towell, Steve Frizzi (Glenmore) 44 points, Runners-Up Steve Loader and Judy Loader (Stonecutters) 42.

Team Prize: Leonay GC (Robert Gradidge, Frank Keith, Garry Denny, Steve Cromer).

Leonay GC also hosted the Annual Col Roffe 4-Person Ambrose event on Saturday 17th August, supporting the Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group.

A capacity field of 146 players teed off in the event and the three winning teams all turned in fabulous scores.

The Scratch winners were: Matt Devries, Steven Thums, Reece Johnstone and Anthony Best (56); Nett Winners Scott White, Linda Tormay, Matt Holburn and Andrei Konarew (48); Medley Winners Brett Storey, Gill Storey, Matt Neill and Mick McCormick (50.37).

A grand total of $3,420 was raised on the day, comprised of $2,000 donated by the Men’s Committee, $500 by the Ladies Committee and $920 from a well-supported raffle, with prizes donated by former Leonay Head Professional Wayne Worthy.

SPORT

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Nepean H o c k e y Association is excited for the new turf to be laid in time for the Grand Finals commencing on the 7th September.

The Emu Plains Women’s Premiers of 2018 will be hoping to secure back to back First Division Titles.

They will also have the first opportunity to win a title on the fresh surface laid for the Grand final.

With the new turf being laid it is a fantastic time for juniors, men and women to join the ‘Summer Competition’ which commences at Western Sydney University hockey fields in October later this year.

Hockey is a fantastic sport to play

and get the family involved and the Nepean Hockey Association is expecting its biggest turn out of teams this Summer.

As evident by the Knowles family, who are pictured here, hockey is for all ages and is a sport in which the entire family can play. There’s 11 players in the Knowles family, they are very well known and well respected in the Nepean Hockey Association. They also played a major role in the grants process and completion of the new turf.

A big thank you to Penrith MP Stuart Ayres for making it possible.

If interested, players may register at summercomp@ nepeanhockey.com. au.

Good luck to everyone in the finals!

CPMCC host Classic Charity Weekend and farewell a legend

By Noel Rowsell

T

he City of Penrith Motorcycle Club (CPMCC) hosted the 2019 Dirt Track Classic Charity Weekend over 17/18th August, celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Nepean Raceway, raising funds of behalf of Australian Rotary Health and acknowledging the retirement of a Dirt Track Racing Legend.

Over 90 riders from NSW, Queensland and Victoria attended the event, which featured two 25-Lap races on Saturday and 19 races on Sunday.

Many riders chose to camp at the Raceway for the weekend and there were many highlights, laughs and fast action over the two days.

It was however also a poignant end of an era, with ‘Legend of the Nepean’ Wally Cox having his final race day as a rider on Sunday.

Cox was instrumental with the Nepean Raceway from the track’s conception and stayed involved with the track for all of it’s 60 years.

Time however has finally caught up with the local Legend, who is hanging up his leathers and selling his beloved bikes.

Local photographer Mark Staudinger presented Wally with a stunning A3 photobook, filled with photos of Wally during some of his races and also his work as a track official.

Action from Saturday’s 25-Lap Feature (5), Mark Staudinger’s Photobook (1), CPMCC’s Photo Montage (1) and the three remaining members of the inaugural 6-hour race (1). Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

The CPMCC presented Wally with a beautiful framed photo montage and tribute, celebrating his tireless work on behalf of the CPMCC. The Charity Weekend also brought

together three members of the team which had won the inaugural 6-hour Dirt Track Race, which was held at the Raceway in 1968.

The winning team was represented

by Wally Cox, Jim Winstanley and Fred Boyd, whilst the two missing members were Bill Dillow (whereabouts unknown) and Bob Ely (deceased).

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

Nepean Hockey Association has new turf laid for finals

41

Celebrity ROUND 24

ROUND 25

NQC NZW BRI NEW MAN SYD CRO STG SOU PAR MEL CAN BUL GCT WES PAN BUL SOU PAR GCT MEL PAN CAN WES SYD MAN NQC NZW BRI STG CRO NEW Aug 29 7.50pm

Aug 30 6.00pm

Aug 30 7.55pm

Aug 31 3.00pm

Aug 31 5.30pm

Aug 31 7.35pm

Sept 1 2.00pm

Sept 18 4.05pm

Sept 5 7.50pm

Sept 6 6.00pm

Sept 6 7.55pm

Sept 7 3.00pm

Sept 7 5.30pm

Sept 7 7.35pm

Sept 8 2.00pm

Sept 8 4.05pm

SCORE

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

188 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

214 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 0447 517 711

220 Jeff Lemon - KHP Civil - 0488 342 555

202 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

206 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

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

214 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

206 John Thain - GM, Luke Priddis Foundation - 4736 2022

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

226 Michael Creed - Thor’s Cafe - 4721 0292 Aaron Tyres - @print

180 Derry O’Donovan - EZR Vend - 0414 254 074

174 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

204

TIPSTERS ROUND 24

ROUND 25

NQC NZW BRI NEW MAN SYD CRO STG SOU PAR MEL CAN BUL GCT WES PAN BUL SOU PAR GCT MEL PAN CAN WES SYD MAN NQC NZW BRI STG CRO NEW Aug 29 7.50pm

Aug 30 6.00pm

Aug 30 7.55pm

Aug 31 3.00pm

Aug 31 5.30pm

Aug 31 7.35pm

Sept 1 2.00pm

Sept 18 4.05pm

Sept 5 7.50pm

Sept 6 6.00pm

Sept 6 7.55pm

Sept 7 3.00pm

Sept 7 5.30pm

Sept 7 7.35pm

Sept 8 2.00pm

Sept 8 4.05pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

224 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

200 Cameron Faico - Property Central - 0434 400 225

228 Mark Fitzpatrick - Full Spectrum Services - 0430 220 263

212 Romano Garofali - Nepean Pools - 4722 9201

218 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

216 Kate Radcliffe - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 587

210 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

228 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

198 Brock Shepperd - Wests Harold Matthews Coach

216 Narelle Withers - Bespoke Realty Group - 4737 9977 Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

172

Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

214 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

220

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

44

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Repeat Sets with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

FINALS CAMPAIGN ON LIFE SUPPORT AFTER BACK-TO-BACK LOSSES The Penrith Panthers finals hunt appears in freefall, after losing 24-10 to the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville as the former premiership contenders turned in yet another frustrating performance that saw them spurn yet again a litany of attacking chances.

It was a story that has been all too familiar for the Panthers this season, as they failed to capitalise on a plethora of scoring opportunities. Their cause was not helped by the Bunker denying them three times in the second half, controversially on one occasion.

But ultimately, the Panthers have only themselves to blame, as they suffered a second-straight loss and are stranded outside the top eight on 22 points, meaning they will likely need to beat the Sydney Roosters next weekend to keep their post-season hopes alive.

The Panthers were sluggish from the kick-off, allowing the hosts to hit an early 6-0 lead, before having plenty of opportunities to respond over the next twenty minutes, but they failed to execute time after time and have now incurred their fourth loss from their last five games.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary lamented his side’s inability to take advantage of their opportunities.

“We didn’t start the game well enough,” Cleary said.

“Too many fundamental errors which put us behind the eight ball, two weeks in a row.”

“We gave the Cowboys a bit of a leg-up, a bit of a sniff ... it was a little bit disjointed, I thought.

“I thought we could get back in the game pretty much most of the night - but we couldn’t quite nail it.”

“I thought the Cowboys defended pretty well and we struggled to get momentum throughout the game.

“At various stages we did but then we couldn’t really take advantage of those opportunities. Close calls, disallowed tries, and that kind of stuff.”

The loss to the Cowboys followed an equally disappointing defeat at the hands of Brisbane the previous Friday at Suncorp Stadium, in what coach Ivan Cleary described as being an immature performance.

“In many ways I thought the first half was immature and I think we have an immature team,” Cleary said.

“So it is not completely surprising away from home in a place like here (Suncorp) where there is a lot going on.

Having trailed 12-6 in the second half following a 6-6 halftime deadlock, three quickfire tries to Malakai Watene-Zelezniak, Kaide Ellis and Charlie Staines secured a much needed win for the Panthers, with Staines in particular, in scintillating form.

The Panthers must now defeat the Blacktown Sea Eagles this Sunday at HE Laybutt Field (1:10pm) and hope for wins by Mounties over Bears or Dragons over Bulldogs in order to secure a top four spot.

Josh Mansour remains sidelined for the Roosters clash.

Credit: NRL Photos.

“I thought we started the game really well and we could have put them under all sorts of pressure, but we shot ourselves in the foot.

“We have got a lot of young guys and they have got to learn the hard way, so they will.”

Cleary didn’t have to be told the Panthers also needed to learn some hard lessons in defence after missing a staggering 84 tackles in their last two games.

“We have a lot of work to do defensively in that area,” he conceded.

“Some team stuff and system stuff has definitely gotten better I feel this year.

“But you can’t be conceding points as easily as we did in the second half.”

“We were just missing tackles. They have a lot of powerful, tackle-breakers in their team and that is going to happen.

“A lot of them were early in the game when they were fresh but there were some crucial ones that led to tries as well.”

Despite a successful return from an eye injury by Jarome Luai, the top four hopes of the Canterbury Cup Panthers are in serious jeopardy following last Sunday’s 42-24 loss to North Sydney at North Sydney Oval, which saw the Bears leapfrog Penrith into fourth place.

The Panthers outscored the Bears four tries to two in the second half but it wasn’t enough to make up for their first forty minutes, where they fell behind 30-4.

It follows a come from behind win over Wests Magpies 24-18 at Panthers Stadium the previous Sunday.

Meanwhile the Jersey Flegg Panthers have guaranteed themselves a finals berth with a resounding 56-6 win over North Sydney Bears at North Sydney Oval last Sunday, ending a run of outs that saw Penrith without a win in four previous weeks.

Despite a topsy-turvy fortnight which saw the Panthers go down meekly 34-6 to the Wests Tigers the previous Sunday, the resounding victory over the Bears means Penrith could finish anywhere between 3rd and 7th after the final round is completed this Sunday at HE Laybutt Field against the 14th placed Sea Eagles.

Coach Ivan Cleary welcomes back Jarome Luai (eye) and Wayde Egan (shoulder) but Josh Mansour (back) and now Isaah Yeo (shoulder) are unavailable for this Saturday’s must-win clash against perennial foes, Sydney Roosters at the SCG (7:30pm).

Yeo’s unavailability means Parkes junior, Billy Burns, will become Panther No. 592 and is set to make his NRL debut from the bench.

The club has named the following 21-man squad: 1. Dylan EDWARDS 2. Stephen CRICHTON 3.

Dean WHARE 4. Brent NADEN 5. Brian TO’O 6.

James MALONEY 7. Nathan CLEARY 8. James TAMOU (C) 9. Mitch KENNY 10. Moses LEOTA 11. Viliame KIKAU 12. Liam MARTIN 13. James FISHER-HARRIS 14. Jarome LUAI 15. Spencer LENIU 16. Billy BURNS 17. Reagan CAMPBELL-GILLARD 18. Wayde EGAN 19. Sione KATOA 20. Hame SELE 21. Malakai WATENE-ZELEZNIAK The following Sunday, it’s the final home game and possibly Penrith’s last game of the 2019 season as they look to farewell James Maloney in style when they host the Newcastle Knights, kicking off at 4pm.

Make your support count and show your #PantherPride at the game.

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45 45

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FORMER GREATS LEFT ASKING QUESTIONS AS FINALS HOPE FALTER IN PARADISE Back-to-back road losses in sunny Queensland have left many former greats of the game questioning how the Panthers have gone from perennial finals contenders under previous coach Anthony Griffin to premiership also-rans in just twelve months since Ivan Cleary returned to coach Penrith for a second time.

24-12 and 24-10 losses to the Broncos and North Queensland in the past fortnight have the Panthers on the brink of missing the finals for the first time since 2015, ironically the last time Ivan Cleary coached the club.

The tenth-placed Panthers now face the daunting task of heading to the Sydney Cricket Ground this Saturday night to take on a rampant Sydney Roosters outfit that look every bit a chance of becoming the first team to defend their title since Brisbane did it back in 1993, just to keep their season alive.

Should the Panthers somehow conjure up a second win in 2019 against the defending premiers this round, they still then need to win a last round home clash against the Newcastle Knights and even then most likely rely on other results going their way to have any chance of recording an unlikely fourth successive finals appearances for the first time in the club’s history, given they remain stuck on 22 points and with a points differential of -89.

A mid-season seven-game winning streak aside, 2019 has been a hugely disappointing and underwhelming campaign for a team many regarding were a premiership threat and a perennial tip to finish at least in the top four.

Former Panther great and Triple M cocommentator Ryan Girdler, took the Panthers to task over their attacking structures following the abysmal loss last Friday night to the 15th placed Cowboys, which again highlighted the team’s inability to convert numerous opportunities into points.

Girdler’s criticism comes as another former Panther great, Brad Fittler, took a heavy swipe following a similarly insipid performance the week before against Brisbane, declaring the club is not cut out to win big games because “of their lack of respect for the ball” as well as being the most heavily penalised team in the competition and missing the most tackles.

“I need to see them without errors,” Fittler told Wide World of Sports’ Freddy and The Eighth.

“Their lack of respect for the ball and their

to be on the horizon has disappeared and we’re now back into the rebuild phase and I don’t think Penrith will play finals this year.

“I don’t see them being a top four side. There’s so much talent in the squad.

“But they’re now in the infancy of their NRL careers and it’s going to take time to get up those 40, 60, 80, 100 games that you need, we’re now back kind of to where we started.”

Plenty of soul searching taking place with Penrith long odds to play finals footy now in 2019.

Credit: NRL Photos

lack of attention to detail is problematic. They’re the most penalised team in the competition and they make more errors more than anyone else.

“I don’t care how talented they are they’re not going to win the big games because they’re just worn out from the all the tackling.”

Fellow Nine commentator and rugby league great Peter Sterling, says questionable roster management has resulted in the window of opportunity for Penrith to win a premiership, has now been slammed shut in their face.

Sterling has questioned how the club can let go of so many calibre players in recent times to virtually allow itself to go back in a pre-mature re-building phase instead of having a proper crack at winning a title with a such a talented roster at their disposal, following the recent departures of talented outside backs, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Waqa Blake on top of moves made elsewhere by other high-profile players in prior seasons.

The constant roster changes, combined with offfield turmoil and the change back from Anthony Griffin in favour of a return of Ivan Cleary now has left experts such as Sterling, fearing that the club’s progression towards what was seen as inevitable premiership glory, has all but disappeared.

“I’m just trying to figure out where it all went wrong for the Panthers,” Sterling said.

“Three or four seasons ago I was their biggest fan and you could see that they were bringing together this squad that I felt were going to be playing grand finals or winning premierships in a short period of time. “ ... the window of opportunity that just appeared

Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

GOLDEN POINTS

Despite suggestions that Penrith assistant coach Cameron Ciraldo was set to be a contender to replace departed Newcastle coach Nathan Brown, it appears that the Knights will instead go with Sydney Roosters assistant coach Adam O’Brien, as their preferred NRL coach from 2020.

The news comes on top of widespread reports that Ivan Cleary’s one-time assistant coach, Trent Barrett will return to a similar role in 2020 and work alongside Ciraldo, working with the club’s young halves and backs to improve their attack.

The move is likely to see current assistant coach, Peter Wallace move into a lower grades coaching role, which could see premiershipwinning Canterbury Cup coach, Guy Missio squeezed out of the club.

Rumours had suggested the Panthers were looking to replace prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard with the Melbourne Storm’s Christian Welch, but the representative forward has hosed down such suggestions after declaring his allegiance to his current club for 2020 by activating a contract option in his favour for next season.

Meanwhile it has been revealed that recent NRL debutant Matt Burton, has signed a two-year contract extension with the Panthers, ensuring competition in the halves spot for favoured Panthers halves for 2020, Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai, as well as possibly Tyrone May. Jot down Monday September 16, in the calendar for this year’s Merv Cartwright Medal night, which brings a change in venue with the event moving inside Panthers to the EVAN Theatre instead of the Panthers Exhibition Marquee. #PantherPride

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Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

46

SPORT

Coach’s Corner

Brock Shepperd Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

Accountability and Standards

I

t has fast become a season full of coaching drama and scandal. It kicked off with the coaching swap between the Broncos and Rabbitohs, then we had Ivan Cleary return to the Panthers which left the Wests Tigers in a difficult position leading into the upcoming season.

Since the preseason we have seen the Titans sack Garth Brennan, and since he was moved on the performance of the team has continued to decline.

While the Knights this past week sacked Nathan Brown only to see the team get smashed 46-4 by the Wests Tigers five days later.

It seems when coaches are made

accountable and moved on that a lot of the time that is where the accountability starts and ends. Before you choose a career in coaching you accept that you will be hired and fired. It is the only two certainties in the business. And what happens in between and how long between those two decisions you need to be as effective as possible to ensure you have the time you need to get the players to perform. That leads to results and therefore job security.

But accountability surely needs to fall back onto the players in some of these situations? For Kaylan Ponga to say “I was not disappointed because I was having a strawberry milkshake”

when asked to his reaction to Brown’s sacking and Mitchell Pearce to say “My mum is available to coach the team” just demonstrates how removed some players have become from the reality of accountability. I really hope the coach who takes the Knights job can have the players show more respect to the position and get them to be accountable for their performances.

We also saw last week Anthony Seibold and Jason Demetriou go public with a personal grievance and slang a few barbs each others way which was very strange. Wayne Bennett demonstrated the correct mannerism and simply said “leave me out of it”.

How will this season play out? If the ladder tells us anything it is that the coaches who have stability and long tenures usually turn clubs around and get them to perform... Craig Bellamy has been in charge of the Storm for 17 years, Trent Robinson at the Roosters 7 years, Ricky Stuart at the Raiders 6 years. They sit 1st, 2nd and 3rd on the ladder... The club at the bottom of the ladder? Sacked their coach six weeks ago and has not won a game since and has sat idle while the performance of the team has regressed beyond the level which saw the head coach moved on initially.

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Last two spots up for grabs

 The race is on for the final two spots in the top 8..... But 6 can’t fit into 2!

A

fter yet another action packed weekend of NRL footy the race for the last two spots in the 8 is still as clear as mud.

Honestly, it’s as if some teams aren’t truly ready for finals footy, with the two at top of that list being the Panthers and the Knights.

Both team capitulated in their clashes over last round.

The Panthers with ALL to play for dished up an ordinary performance against North Queensland going down to the cellar dwelling; Cowboys 24 to 10.

Penrith never really got out of 2nd gear and were clearly out-enthused by the team coming 14th, while the Knights after a week of turmoil could have put all the unrest behind them but dished up something totally unsatisfactory and being lapped by the Tigers 46 to 4.

On the other hand other teams vying for those last two spots, the Tigers and Sharks showed they want to play semi final footy with both teams registering statement-like performances.

As it stands, the top 6 is just about settled. Positions 7th and 8th that are truly up for grabs. But who wants them?

The Sharks currently are 7th on 24 points and probably need one more win (they play Raiders at home then the Tigers away) to cement their spot in the 8.

The Broncos likewise but are untrustworthy as far as tipping them goes.

They finish with the Eels at Suncorp then the Dogs away.

You’d think they’d win one of those, but can’t be 100% sure.

The Tigers are 9th on 22 points as are the Panthers, but Ivan’s men have a horrid points differential. Tigers have the Dragons away then end with the Sharks at home. The Panthers have the Roosters at the SCG this weekend then finish with the Knights at home.

Then you’ve got the Knights and Bulldogs, that’s right the Bulldogs are still a mathematical chance of top 8 glory! Wow! The Panthers recent losses to the Bulldogs and Cowboys could be their undoing, or it might come down to their final home game against the Knights if they can upset the Roosters this Saturday.

All I know is that anything can happen and usually does. For example who gave the Poms any chance of victory last Sunday night? Where there’s life there’s hope!

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 29 August 2019 Issue 259

on the

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