BY KERRIE DAVIES
FEDERAL Member for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh has been endorsed by the Liberal Party to be the Liberal Candidate for Lindsay at the next federal election. A challenge from Penrith Deputy Mayor Mark Davies was withdrawn last week following comments from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton that were supportive of Ms McIntosh remaining as the candidate.
Statement from Melissa McIntosh MP:
“The NSW Liberal Party State Executive has unanimously endorsed me as the Liberal Candidate for Lindsay at the next federal election. I am very grateful to receive that support from the Liberal Party, and look forward to continuing the fight in our community against the terrible policies of the Albanese Labor Government, their cuts to Western Sydney infrastructure, and the pressure they are putting on everyday Australians who are struggling to pay their bills.
I love my job as the Member for Lindsay, and look forward to continuing to work hard every day for the best community in the country. I am also honoured to continue this work with my new portfolio responsibilities as Shadow Minister for Energy Affordability and Shadow Minister for Western Sydney.”
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BY KERRIE DAVIES
HOPING to squeeze in a road trip this Easter long weekend?
Our Police are hoping to have enough donated blood to meet the impact of road trauma at this time of year. The Traffic and Highway Patrol Command have launched a week-long blood drive to help draw attention to the urgent need.
In 2018, Senior Constable Jonathan Wright, attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, was setting up a random breath testing site when he and a fellow officer were hit by a distracted driver.
As a result, Senior Constable Wright was pinned between two vehicles. He sustained serious lower leg injuries and lost a significant amount of blood.
“Whilst in hospital, I underwent three major surgeries during which I received five bags of blood and my right leg below the knee had to be amputated. Without blood I likely would not be here today,” Senior Constable Wright said.
Six years later, Senior Constable Wright operates a part of South West Traffic and Highway Patrol, as a Community Engagement Officer, providing in-school road safety programs to Year 11 students across the south western and southern regions.
This week Traffic and Highway Patrol officers across the state are donating blood and helping save lives. Seven people died and 129 were seriously injured on our roads last Easter.
Leading the drive, Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, said traffic officers see first-hand the very real need for blood when they arrive on the scene of crashes where people have suffered serious injuries and will require donations.
“Every Easter long Weekend, we see a significant increase of vehicles and users on our roads across the state and it is an extremely important time for the community to be vigilant and look out for one another,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said. “We encourage anyone who can donate to do so, not only are you helping people who have suffered traumatic injuries but also those with serious illnesses, such as cancer.”
An hour of your time could save up to three lives: www.lifeblood.com.au/
AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood has also issued an appeal for blood and plasma donors in the lead up to Easter amid growing demand by hospitals.
The need for blood is 3 percent higher than the same time last year, whilst demand for platelets, the clotting agent in blood, is at a record high. Platelets are taken from blood donations and are a vital part of treatment for cancer patients and road trauma victims.
Lifeblood Executive Director, Strategy and Growth, Stuart Chesneau said 1000 donors are needed every day across Australia between now and Easter Monday to ensure hospitals receive the blood they need.
“Blood and blood products will be required every 18 seconds this Easter long weekend and throughout the school holidays by trauma and emergency patients, mums delivering babies, people with blood conditions and cancer patients.
“And every person who comes in and makes a donation can save up to three lives,” Stuart said.
Easter is a traditionally a challenging time for donations because many regular donors take a break to spend time with family and friends or go away for the four-day weekend.
“Blood is complex and cannot be synthetically produced, so we rely on the generosity of donors to ensure patients have access to the blood they need when they need it, including over holiday periods.”
In 2023, 17 people lost their lives on the roads throughout Easter, whilst many more required hospital treatment. Just one person involved in a serious road crash can need as many as 100 bags of blood to survive, depending on their injuries.
Platelets are also vital to combat life-threatening bleeding in emergency situations. Platelets act like tiny bandaids to clot blood, but only have a shelf life of seven days.
“Hospitals can’t always predict what trauma or emergency patients might come through their doors so having a reliable supply of blood, plasma, and platelets is critical,” Stuart said.
“A blood donation only takes one hour, with just 5-10 minutes on the couch, while a plasma donation takes 90 minutes.”
Lifeblood has a record 49 Lifeblood donor centres open throughout Australia on Good Friday and most centres are open on Easter Monday, providing plenty of opportunities to donate.
To book an appointment call 13 14 95, book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.
DID you know that 10% of emergency room presentations across the state could have been treated by a GP? This Easter long weekend, if you have a non life-threatening illness or injury, the emergency department is not your only option.
Wentworth Healthcare, the provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, fund a variety of after hours primary healthcare services in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith local government areas. These services help local residents find medical care for non life-threatening illnesses and injuries when their usual doctor is not available.
According to Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Ms Lizz Reay, most people would prefer to see a GP rather than go to an emergency department, but many don’t know what other options are available when their usual doctor is closed. Wentworth Healthcare’s website DoctorClosed.com.au helps people to find local options.
“If you or your family needs medical assistance at night, on weekends or on public holidays, in some cases a long wait in the emergency department may
not be necessary. Our Doctor Closed website allows local residents to search for a GP who is open after hours, for doctors who can make home visits or for Urgent Care Services. You can also use the online symptom checker, find pharmacies that are open, or talk to a health professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on the healthdirect helpline,” said Ms Reay.
“The Doctor Closed website also has translated pages in six different languages, making the information accessible for multicultural communities,” she added.
KYNAN has been handpicked to join the 2024 Skillaroos Training Squad after his impressive performance in the Automotive Refinishing category at the WorldSkills National Championships in Melbourne.
The Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) is thrilled to announce apprentice Kynan Bonanno has been chosen to represent the country at WorldSkills Lyon 2024, the 47th WorldSkills Competition, taking place 10-15 September 2024.
Hailing from St Clair, and a dedicated apprentice of MTA NSW, Kynan’s outstanding performance at the WorldSkills Australia National Championships in August secured his place as one of the country’s finest young talents in the automotive industry.
Ian Price, General Manager - RTO, MTA NSW, expressed his admiration and support.
“We’re immensely proud of Kynan’s achievements and the calibre of talent our organisation helps to nurture,” he said.
“Just nine months into his first-year apprenticeship, Kynan won first place at the regional level and fourth
place at the national level. This is a well-earned reflection on his incredible skillset, determination, and ability to act as a positive ambassador for the automotive industry,” continued Mr Price.
Kynan said that this journey is a result of hard work, dedication, and the ongoing support of MTA NSW. “I’m honoured to represent Australia at the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 Competition and will give my all to make everyone proud on the global stage,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to not only showcasing my skills but also being an ambassador for training in Australia, demonstrating the calibre of education and talent within our country.”
“I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the best in the industry, and I owe a debt of gratitude to my trainers who have shared their expertise and guided me on this path.”
The Skillaroos will undergo rigorous training in preparation for the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 Competition, ensuring that Kynan and his fellow competitors are fully equipped to compete on the global stage.
Stavros Yallouridis, CEO, MTA NSW, congratulated Kynan on his achievement and the dedication shown by all MTA NSW apprentices. “Kynan’s success is a personal triumph while reinforcing our commitment as an organisation to shaping the future of the automotive industry,” Yallouridis said. “We’re incredibly proud of him and look forward to watching him shine on the international stage representing Australia.”
As part of MTA NSW’s support, the organisation is funding Kynan’s trip by covering the cost of his flights, accommodation, and training ahead of the event.
MTA NSW was also a sponsor of last year’s WorldSkills Australia National Championships, which was the most significant trades and skills competition in Australia. MTA NSW had six skilled apprentices representing the organisation at the event.
MTA NSW congratulates Kynan and all the apprentices who competed in the National Championships and looks forward to supporting the Skillaroos as they head towards the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 competition.
THE NSW Government has strengthened bail laws to help prevent repeat youth crime and introduced a new performance crime offence targeting those who advertise certain crimes on social media.
Parliament passed legislative changes last night to amend the Bail Act 2013 to include a temporary additional bail test for young people between 14 and 18 charged with committing certain serious break and enter offences or motor vehicle theft offences whilst on bail for similar offences.
Under the change, a bail authority such as police, magistrates and judges will need to have a high degree of confidence that the young person will not commit a further serious indictable offence, whilst on bail, before granting bail.
The bail amendments are a temporary measure that will sunset after 12-months. The laws will be monitored and evaluated by the Department of Communities and Justice utilising the data and expertise of the Bureau of Crimes Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).
The government has also created a ‘performance crime’ offence in the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW), imposing an additional penalty of two years’ imprisonment for people who commit motor vehicle theft or break and enter offences and share material to advertise their involvement in the criminal behaviour.
It is expected these new provisions will come into effect within two weeks and will undergo a statutory review that will take place two years after it commences.
NSW Attorney General Michael Daley said this government listens to the people of New South Wales and is committed to meaningfully and comprehensively addressing problems and the concerns people have.
“These bail laws have been purposefully designed to address repeated alleged offending by young people aged between 14 and 18 who have been charged with serious break and enter, motor vehicle theft, while on bail for another offence of that type,” Mr Daley said.
“The government is aware of concerns about tightening bail laws for young people and it has approached this change cautiously in light of the potentially serious consequences for young people and, in particular, Aboriginal young people.
“This is why the change is time limited and relates to young people who are already alleged to have committed at least one offence while on bail for another relevant offence.
“The new ‘post and boast’ offence targets performance crime – where offenders post footage of their lawbreaking online – in connection with car crime and break and enter offences.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and has to stop. People have a right to sleep safe in their beds in the sanctity of their home and should not have to face being retraumatised, ridiculed and shamed with images of the crime being made into a warped kind of ‘entertainment’.
“These changes are the first part of this government’s significant and multifaceted response to regional crime.”
THE Creative Fringe, led by the dedicated CEO Debbie O’Connor, announces the start of the Annual 2024 Think Outside the Square Blanket Challenge (TOTS) for its eighth year running with a massive goal of 650 blankets. This inspiring initiative is instrumental in supporting the vulnerable members of our local Penrith community through the creation of knitted and crocheted blankets.
Last year, a total of 547 blankets were presented to local charity partners, including Link Wentworth and Together Homes, WestCare Community Services, Platform Youth Services, Penrith Community Kitchen, and The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter. The overwhelming response from our compassionate community has truly touched the lives of those in need during the chilly winter months.
The TOTS Blanket Challenge, a remarkable collaboration of over 280 volunteers, has been running annually from April to August. These dedicated individuals, armed with their knitting needles, and crochet hooks, ingeniously transform 20 x 20cm squares into vibrant, cosy blankets, which provide comfort and solace to countless individuals and families within our community. Supporting DV
survivors, Youth in crisis and homeless.
The Creative Fringe has garnered support froma several schools across the region which are now supporting the challenge by teaching their students how to knit squares. Several Aged Care and Retirement villages and disability groups are on board to help the challenge. If you are keen
to get involved, The Creative Fringe would welcome you to this years growing cause.
What makes the TOTS Blanket Challenge all the more extraordinary is that its impact knows no boundaries. The outpouring of support has reached far beyond our local area, with participation from kind-hearted
souls hailing from country Victoria, Queensland, Newcastle, and even as far as Darwin and Perth. To accommodate their unwavering enthusiasm, these incredible contributors send their squares by post, showcasing the widespread compassion that this challenge has garnered.
This year, again with the support of the local community, The Creative Fringe hopes to reach a massive goal of 650 blankets. There are more and more people in dire need this year in our community and with help they will be able to reach this goal.
To support this, The Creative Fringe is running a series of sewing bee’s during the day and evenings across the months of the challenge to bring together the community to help sort squares, knit, crochet or sew blankets together. All information about this can be found on the Website.
To stay connected with The Creative Fringe and to witness the ongoing impact of the TOTS Blanket Challenge, we invite everyone to follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fringesydney or for more information on how to be a volunteer, FAQ’s and information about the challenge can be found on www.thecreativefringe.com.au
GEORGE Hope was born at Ainsworth, Lancashire in England on 12th January 1815. He married Alice Hunt on 15th September, 1839 and they came to Australia in the “Clyde” on the 21st April 1840 and George worked for Sir John Jamison at “Regentvilla”. Later with his wife Alice they settled at Castlereagh as farmers, but when the O’Connell grant of “Frogmore” at Werrington was being sold in the 1850’s George purchased a 50-acre allotment bounded partly by the Werrington Road, the present railway line and the Western Road (highway) that he named “Hopefields”. The farm was later known as “Hope Farm” on Quarry Hill at Werrington and was later bought by William Garner the first Mayor of the St Marys Municipal Council. In July 1850 in the Court of Requests at Penrith with regards to the singular decision of the Commissioner on the petition of George Hope who wrote a letter to the Editor of the Sydney Morning Herald saying “Sir, I think it right to make public to the people, a decision of the Commissioner of the Court of Requests at Penrith as one seriously involving the just and equitable rights of claimants in that Court. Some time ago a neighbour’s pigs got among my crop of potatoes and consumed and otherwise destroyed them. My wife Alice in my absence drove the pig’s home to their owner who said that they were his pigs, and on the same day he came and looked at the damage done. When the case came up for adjudication before the Commissioner at Penrith, he would not hear the evidence of my wife and dismissed the case because I did not happen to see the pigs on my crop myself (and my wife did) and I did not drive them home to their owner, that of course, I could not do. You will observe the defendant (neighbour) acknowledged the pigs to be his property and the damage they had done, and conscientiously admitting his liability he was most anxious to settle the matter rather than go into Court, but I would not take less than the amount I claimed and did not cover the damage done by one-half. I will particularly be obliged if you would inform me through the medium of your paper whether this decision of the Commissioner is strictly in accordance with the Court of Equity and conscience, and whether a quibble of law has not been mixed up with the case, upon which alone the decision would appear to have been pronounced. Yours - George Hope”. The answer came in the Sydney Morning Herald on the 18th July, 1850 saying “The English legal system was introduced to Australia through colonisation. Upon arrival to Australia the colonists declared that the laws of England were to immediately apply to all settled lands. This declaration was asserted by reliance upon a legal fiction that the Australian continent was terra nullius; i.e. land belonging to no one, as it was believed that the Aboriginal peoples already inhabiting the continent were not cohesively organised for a treaty to be struck with any single representation of their peoples. Under the conventions of international law at the time, terra nullius lands were recognised as immediately adopting
the laws of the relevant colonial power. The arrival of English Law was later expressly stated in statute by passage of the Australian Courts Act 1828. The act stated that all laws and statutes in force in England at the date of enactment should be applied in the courts of NSW and Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) so far as those laws were applicable. The earliest civil and criminal courts established from the beginnings of the colony of NSW were rudimentary, adaptive and military in character. Although legality was not always observed, the courts limited the powers of the Governor and the law of the colony was at times more egalitarian than in Britain. By 1824 a court system based in essence on the English model had been established through Acts of the British Parliament. The New South Wales Act 1823 provided for the establishment of a Supreme Court with the power to deal with all criminal and civil matters “as fully and amply as Her Majesty’s Court of King’s Bench, Common Pleas and Exchequer at Westminster”. Inferior courts were also established, including courts of General or Quarter Sessions, and Courts of Requests. Representative government emerged in the 1840s and 1850s, and a considerable measure of autonomy was given to local legislatures in the second half of the nineteenth century. Nevertheless, Acts of the United Kingdom Parliament extending to the colonies could override contrary colonial legislation and would apply by “paramount force”. George died at St Leonards on the 31st August 1893 at the age of 78 and Alice born in 1814 in Lancaster died at St Marys on 16th September 1892 aged 76 and both are buried at St Stephen’s cemetery, Penrith.
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BY NOEL ROWSELL
WALK It Off Australia Inc (WIO) launched its Warragamba Group on Wednesday night 20th March, with approximately 35 men in attendance.
Chris Edwards, founder of the Warragamba group said “Walk It Off is a grassroots, community-based, mental health support initiative, that independently supports men who may be struggling to cope with life’s pressures. WIO is also a not-for-profit support group that encourages open and honest conversations and support around mental health. This initiative started 2 years ago in Springwood, followed by Terrigal and also the development of a women’s support group.
“The last seven months since I began attending WIO, not only am I in a more positive mindset but my physical health has greatly improved. It is these positive changes within myself that drove me to seek a new location to expand the WIO community.
“We’re pleased to announce a new location to expand the WIO community in Warragamba. We would also like to thank Danny and the team at Warra Dam Bakery Cafe, who have come on board to support WIO.
Not only providing a place for WIO to meet, but in doing so supporting the surrounding community.
“In closing, I would like to mention that WIO is a registered charity and any further support would be greatly appreciated. We currently have over 1,000 followers on social media, with a reach of over 7,500, with high levels of post engagement.”
For more information follow the link, because as they say in WIO ‘Change STARTS with a conversation’. https://walkitoff.org. au/
THE renaming of the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) Aboriginal Mental Health Service is reconnecting our Aboriginal consumers with spirit, Country and themselves.
Namurugunya, the Darug name of the relaunched Aboriginal Mental Health Service, represents the journey of consumers. Translated, Namurugunya means ‘to see the way to find the path home’.
Proud Biripi/Dhungutti man and NBMLHD Manager of Aboriginal Mental Health, Stephen Ainsworth says the renaming is a commitment by our Local Health District to provide culturally appropriate health care.
“We want to guide our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through some of the complexities of our health system to ensure each individual is seen, heard and valued,” says Stephen.
“We are using their insights to shape the way we deliver our Service. The dedicated team we have here in our District is proactively engaging the community and building confidence in our health system so our consumers have better health outcomes.”
Some of the ways the Service is building trust within the community is through the easy identification of
their team. Aboriginal peer workers and clinicians will proudly wear a new uniform. The design by First Nations artist Emma Hollingsworth has a strong family theme that embodies the holistic nature of the work Namurugunya does and the results the team aspires to achieve.
To mark the renaming of the Service, the District held a traditional smoking ceremony that celebrated the path of renewed health and wellbeing for Aboriginal consumers.
NBMLHD Director of Community and Integration, Cathy Crowe says
the ceremony marks a significant milestone in our journey towards better mental health care and inclusivity within our community.
“We gather to not only celebrate a renaming but to embrace a shift in perspective, understanding and commitment. The new name of the Aboriginal Mental Health team isn’t just a name; it embodies the spirit of resilience, unity and cultural sensitivity,” says Cathy.
“In Aboriginal culture, names hold profound significance, reflecting identity, history and purpose. And so
as we adopt this new name, we also embrace the responsibility it carries – to uphold the values it represents and to honour the legacy of those who came before us.”
The renaming of the Aboriginal Service coincides with the establishment of a dedicated Koori Consumer Council for Mental Health services in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District –also a first for NSW Health.
The Council will work alongside the District’s existing Consumer and Carer Council to improve mental health services, including service planning, policy development, setting priorities, training and evaluation, and addressing quality issues in the delivery of services.
STARS of Penrith, hosted by the talented My88 Wayne Tunks raised $140,000 last week at Panthers. Thank you to special guest Karen McKeown OAM - MP for Penrith for racing back from Parliament to join the community celebrations.
Great opening number with the talented students from Penrith Creative and Performing Arts High School and PAWS Performance Art Western Sydney
Huge congratulations to all the incredible dancers from local businesses that gave amazing performances taught by the generous talented dance teachers
Dancers; Michael Hicks, Megan Dunn, Tyron Tanti, Cameron Spanner, Aaron Sowter, Karen Callahan, Tenns Alibi, Vicki Totsos and Tania Ball were at their best; the performances were so entertaining.
Judging was fun and entertaining to watch, I thank fellow judges Nathan Sheens and Mark Geyer; the three of us were honoured to be part of this amazing community raising awareness and funds for such a worthy cause: Cancer Council.
Congratulations to Cameron Spanner from Adams and Partners for raising the most funds and Aaron Sowter taking out the Judges Choice award. Tania Ball won the People’s Choice award for her amazing Dirty Dancing routine including, yes “the lift”
But the best bit was when Nathan
Sheens surprised Mark Geyer with a pair of tap shoes and MG rocked the performance with the talented Nathan Sheens!
What a night, congratulations to everyone involved.
Please check out the website to know all the incredible dancers and
learn more about Cancer Council.
Thank you to Penny Johnston from Cancer Council for all her hard work and the team’s efforts.
And also to the local sponsors and supporting businesses that donated flowers, decorations, photos and production.
PCYC is NSW leading youth charity. PCYC’s annual StarJump Challenge is now on, raising funds for PCYC’s Fit for Work program at the Penrith club.
Fit for Work is a life changing program for young people aged 1617 years that runs for 10 weeks, 3 days a week, and aims to address a young person’s disengagement from education and employment.
The fundraiser runs until 6th April, but donations will be gratefully received until the end of April. Participants are challenged to Star Jump every day, either as individuals or in teams, and fundraise for PCYC.
PCYC Penrith invites the local community to join them at 9am to 12pm on April 6th for a fun open day. The event will feature activities for adults and kids alike and offer locals the opportunity to try out the activities on offer like Gymnastics, Boxing, Basketball & Gym + Fitness.
The cost for entry is your choice – with all proceeds of the day going towards the club. This could be as little or as much as you like. Every bit helps.
We will also have a BBQ being run by our local Rotary!
We hope to see you there!
To contribute to the PCYC StarJump Challenge, visit https:// www.pcycstarjumpchallenge.org. au/fundraisers/pcyc-penrith-2024
Your support will make a difference in young people’s lives.
EVEN whilst adjusting to life with the ongoing challenges of a disabling neurological condition, Ricky McGrath has drawn on his recovery experience at Nepean Hospital to make important contributions to clinical education from the patient perspective.
In 2020, after experiencing some unusual symptoms, Ricky was diagnosed with a rare form of cerebellar ataxia; damage to the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance.
“I first started noticing symptoms such as fatigue and balance issues, like stumbling and bumping into walls,” recalls Ricky.
After worsening symptoms and subsequent neurological examinations, it was eventually found that Ricky’s condition was caused by an autoimmune disorder relating to GAD 65 antibodies, which are also associated with more common conditions such as Type 1 diabetes.
Struggling with a rare and poorly understood diagnosis, along with increasingly reduced mobility, Ricky experienced depression, anxiety and loss of confidence.
“There are no easy answers, and I got fairly depressed,” shares Ricky.
“When you get diagnosed with something rare, you don’t get very much information about where you’ll end up or what support you might receive.”
I wondered would I have to use a walker for the rest of my life? What would my future look like? Would I be a burden to my family? Ricky McGrath “ “
Following surgery and a course of treatment to help his condition from worsening, Ricky underwent almost three years of rehabilitation with physiotherapists at Nepean Hospital.
“Ricky showed a lot of strength and perseverance,” says Sanzida Hoque, Physiotherapist Team Leader in Rehabilitation at Nepean Hospital.
“His journey included a lot of up and down, but he never gave up and worked with us at every step.”
“Half the time it’s a mental challenge,” explains Ricky.
“My walking frame was a safety net, and it hindered my improvement. The physios at Nepean helped me build the confidence to put it aside.”
That’s what I found most helpful – people encouraging me. They’re not just treating physical conditions, they’re touching lives. Ricky McGrath “ “
Along with recovering his mobility, Ricky discovered a renewed sense of purpose.
“When I was first admitted the medical students came flocking in herds. They wanted to learn something from me and my condition,” Ricky recalls.
“I soon saw that if I could get anything out of this condition, it would be to help others; by allowing them to learn, and perhaps leading to better outcomes for patients.”
The power of patient experience
Since then, Ricky has drawn on his own experiences to help educate and inspire the next generation of physiotherapists.
In a presentation at Western Sydney University (available on YouTube), Ricky generates awareness of his condition and journey, whilst articulating how health professionals can make a meaningful difference to the lives of their patients.
“Physiotherapy has played a hugely important role in my recovery, and I can offer a long-term perspective,” explains Ricky.
From his first-hand experience, Ricky advocates for empathy, compassion, respect, and the celebration of milestones -- no matter how small.
I want
all
health professionals to
embrace their responsibility with passion and dedication. Ricky McGrath “ “
Ricky McGrath’s contributions to education and advocacy connect patient experience with professional health care in mutually beneficial ways.
“It‘s really important to have patients like Ricky,” says Sanzida Hoque, Physiotherapist Team Leader in Rehabilitation at Nepean Hospital.
“The progress that Ricky made helps show what is possible, even when the journey is not straightforward, and it was heart-warming to hear what Ricky shared with the students about his time at Nepean.”
Ricky has also taken opportunities
to contribute to medical specialists’ training, using his experience to inform practical examinations conducted by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP).
“I’m probably never going to be able to do a triathlon or join a sports team, but doing this sort of advocacy and education really gives my life purpose,” says Ricky.
“It’s a contribution to myself, and to the community.”
“ “
When patients are in hospital the focus can often be on the physical impairment and journey, so it’s great to hear what aspects of our holistic care had the biggest impact.
Sanzida Hoque, Physiotherapist
AUSTRALIA had a long term presence in both Afghanistan and Iraq. More than forty thousand Australian Defence Force personnel served directly or indirectly in those areas between 2001 and 2021. Fifty-one of that number were killed on active service, and hundreds more were wounded.
On July 11th this year RSL NSW will hold the inaugural Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) commemoration. The service will honour those ADF personnel who served in Afghanistan and Iraq during the period 2001-2021. The date marks the day that Australian troops were finally withdrawn from Middle Eastern Operations in 2021. An official service will be held 11AM at the Cenotaph, Martin Place, Sydney. RSL NSW continues to lobby RSL Australia for an annual national commemoration day.
St Marys RSL sub-Branch support the inaugural Commemorative Service. We will also hold a memorial service on July 11th to honour currently serving and former ADF personnel resident in the district. To avoid conflicting with those who may wish to attend the City Service, the St Marys Commemoration is proposed to be conducted in the evening – commencing at 7.00pm – in the auditorium of the St Marys Diggers Club. As with the city Service, all veterans from that era and their family, together with all in our local community, are welcome to attend. It will likely be followed by
a buffet (finger-food), however refreshments are not permitted in the auditorium during the Service. After the Service, of course, drinks may be purchased at the auditorium bar.
The sub-Branch believes that many MEAO veterans live in the local district, and therefore is asking for feedback from them to ensure that the service will meet their expectations. The sub-Branch expects no obligations from that cohort but would welcome their involvement. The focus of the service will be remembrance and veteran camaraderie. The subBranch sees the Service as an opportunity to support each other and families through the challenges that a veteran may face from their experiences, with a particular focus on those veterans and families associated with the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. The sub-Branch would love to hear from MEAO Veterans to further discus and become involved in organising the Service if they wish - contact Secretary Tony Fryer (0414 557 692; st-maryssb@rslnsw.org. au). The timing of the service will be confirmed in the weeks leading up to the event.
PENRITH City Choir will present its next concert at Glenbrook Baptist Church on Sunday 7th April at 2pm, in a program showcasing sublime contemporary choral music with a strong local and Australian flair.
The choir will be giving the world premieres of new music by the choir’s own local composers; David Morris, Jane Andino, and Rowen Fox, who have written music inspired by such themes as love, nostalgia, hope, and resilience.
Guest soprano soloist Julie Jong Eun Barber will also perform highlights from her recently recorded album ‘The Breaking of the Drought’: the songs of the Australian composer, Roy Agnew. Julie is a Korean-Australian Soprano who started her solo career in
2014. She has performed extensively in Australia, South Korea, Germany and Italy with repertoire spanning from Bach to Puccini. Julie moved to Germany in 2020, and during her time
overseas she participated in several Masterclasses and gave many concerts Choir Director, Rowen Fox, has compiled a delightful program that begins with 20th century composer,
Martin Shaw’s “With a Voice of Singing” that lends its name to the concert’s title. It also features music by other contemporary composers, Morten Lauridsen, Bob Chilcott, and Kim André Arnesen, as well as some timeless favourites by Mozart and Mendelssohn.
Complimentary afternoon tea will be served following the performance.
Tickets are available from Trybooking at www.trybooking. com/CPPTI or at the door (eftpos available). Inquiries: Phone 0400 516 630.
‘With a Voice of Singing’
Sunday 7 April, 2.00 pm
Glenbrook Baptist Church, King Street, Glenbrook
BY TONY FRYER
THE Veterans’ Wellbeing Program is again reaching out to military Veterans in our wider Nepean area to encourage participation and involvement in chosen activities within the Program. Veterans of all ages are very welcome to familiarise with the Program (see April’s schedule below) and phone or email us (02 9833 4711 and vietvet@ vvaastmarys.org.au) for more information or to become involved.
Today, many ex-service organisations (ESO’s), together with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), are all concerned to provide opportunities for veterans – serving and ex-service – to enhance their
own wellbeing as well as that of their family. In St Marys, the local RSL sub-Branch has paired with the Outpost Veterans Support Centre, and is working hard to meet the needs of local veterans and their family. Both of these ESO’s are doing this by offering services that veterans can access with ease and thereby create new friends with other like-minded veterans and in a safe environment. Families of veterans are also a focus for services offered by these organisations.
Camaraderie through involvement within these ESO’s is often a major factor in helping veterans to assimilate more effectively into the local community. Veterans seeking assistance from DVA for conditions that have arisen/occurred due to their military occupation (Regular or Reserve) can access free
advocacy service via the Outpost Veterans Centre. In cases of expressed financial need for a veteran or family, the RSL sub-Branch or the Veterans Centre may be able to assist.
The Veterans’ Wellbeing Program is also one of the services available via these ESO’s and is a most tangible way to provide support to veterans and family. The range, variety and scheduling of the Program’s activities is open to suggestions for change and variation. Enquiries are welcome at either ESO and, dependant of sufficient interest, suggestions will be given serious consideration.
As a veteran, you and your family can only benefit from involvement. We welcome your interest in the Program.
ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS
DESCRIPTION/TIMING
Coffee n Chat Veterans Mon – Fri early mornings – simply just a chat on the Train veranda (Veterans Support Centre)
Social Guild Veterans & partner Occasional social outings local or coach overnight
Hospital Visitations Veterans & partner Usually Tuesday mornings; Teams of 2 visit veterans in local hospitals
Guitars for Vets Veterans Wednesday mornings @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train); learn to play or join a jam session
Monthly BBQ B’fast Veterans & family 8.00am last Thursday of each month @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train)
Exercise classes White or Gold card holders Tue and Fri @ 8.00am @ Ripples, St Marys; occasional walks from/to the Train in lieu; must meet criteria
Walk n Talk n Breakfast Veterans & family Monthly walk on local footpaths from/to the Veterans Support Centre (the Train) Breakfast provided on return
Small bus day-trips Veterans Occasional, weekday or weekend; greater Sydney area; lodge interest at Veteran Support Centre
Computer Classes Veterans and partner Thursday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners or for Photoshop classes
Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club
Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area
Packing Care Boxes Veterans 6-monthly day trip to Randwick to pack care boxes
Barefoot Bowls Veterans and partner 1st Friday of the month - mornings @ St Marys Diggers Club
Saturday
Thursday
TO me, Easter is almost like the calling of the wild for boneheads. Let’s cram 75 people into a car, hit the carpark called the M1 for 15 hours, and go to an Airbnb for the long weekend for what they consider a relaxing holiday. The Airbnb only has 4 bedrooms but hey, they make it work; sleeping with Aunt Myrtle isn’t so bad for three nights is it? Look at the bright side, with that many family members it works out to be about $7.25 per night, who cares if you need to wait 45 minutes for the toilet and shower, this what family do ( eye roll emoji).
Not to forget the snotty kids in the back seat, two dogs licking the windows, and a set of divorcees that really hate each other. Little miss has 45 bags of clothes because she doesn’t know what to wear to a beach house. Dad always drives past 10 petrol
Which retailer gives me the best Solar feed-in or the lowest price of electricity?
stations because according to his records, the one in the back of whoop whoop is 2 cents cheaper and he will save a whole 12 cents there.
The car tyres are sitting at 27 PSI because of the weight, and the aircon has to be left off, on a 43 degree day or the car won’t get up the hills on the motorway.
Once at the “ relaxing site” you then process the eating patterns of the family, (yep it is probably easier to organise the robbing of the Reserve Bank, but hey it’s family and you love them right?) So you have the vegans, the vegetarians, the carnivores, the fasters, the dieters and of course the “ we are not sharing the hotplate when you have cooked meat on it” people and so on and so forth.
They arrived at 4 pm and by 6 pm, 15 family members are punching on over the kitchen rules
With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Securityand the eating habits, which then means 7 people are no longer talking to each other and the silent treatments have begun. (Great holiday!). Eventually, the BBQ ends up in the water, and they all fend for themselves.
Then the sleeping patterns start, okay Mum and Dad in the backroom, and the 4am pilates meditating special in the front room.
The two beautiful kids kick a soccer ball straight through a window and the $7.25 nightly fee has just grown to $3075 – for the non-refundable bond.
After the most rewarding 2 days, 1 hour and 27 seconds, but who’s counting, they all pile back into the car and head back to rejoin life as they know it. And there you have it, the bonehead Easter getaway. I am guessing they can’t wait to do it all next year!
different rates, in different areas at different times. One common denominator is that electricity is expensive, it has increased far more than inflation over the past couple of years, and despite what the pollies have been telling us, it is not going to come down.
Retail power companies buy their power on the electrical wholesale market, and they sell it to us. Not much to add to it, just mark it up and sell it.
They don’t look after the poles and wires; they buy and sell electricity. They don’t add different flavours to it, nor do they make it look any different during the transition from wholesale to retail. They often change the cost to you without really making it to
obvious, you drop off a plan and revert to a ‘basic’ plan or such that they have.
We then receive a bill that has crept higher and as there is a lot of information on it, we just pay it. Sound familiar? Well, there have been some changes recently with the Australian Energy Regulator forcing retailers to now advertise on the front page of bills that they may have better rates available, just have to ask. Even better, they tell us how much we could save by checking with them!
The Government has also come to the party by setting up an energy comparison website that makes comparing your electricity plan easy, with an easy-to-read list of the best retailer to suit you, in your area, with your actual usage. I had a close friend
save over $300 per month by doing this recently and small business I know save a whopping $10,000.00 a quarter!
How? Simply go to energymadeeasy.gov.au
One constant in all of this, compare your retailer regularly and don’t be scared to change. It is free to do so and by making a simple phone call to a new retailer, they do the rest and the sooner you do it, the quicker the savings will roll in.
If you have a question about your system or a question in general regarding Solar or Solar battery storage and you would like to learn more, please email me info@ nepeansolar.com.au or call our office on 4760 0809.
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
AS Easter approaches, among the joyous celebrations and family gatherings, it’s important to remember that this festive occasion can pose serious risks to our furry companions. Whilst we indulge in chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, and sweet treats, our pets may unwittingly encounter hazards that could turn a joyful weekend into a veterinary emergency.
Chocolate, an essential part of Easter celebrations, contains theobromine, a toxin that can be fatal to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to symptoms such
FRIENDS of Hawkesbury
Lacey is a placid sociable girl who just loves attention. Lacey has been great with the staff and friendly towards the other dogs around her. If you have been looking for a lovely friendly dog to join the family, please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet her just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together.
Cost: $99 Age: 10 Months Type: Dog
Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier Sex: Female
as muscle stiffness, vomiting, and seizures. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial if you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate. Similarly, hot cross buns, with their raisins and dried fruits, can cause kidney failure in both dogs and cats, revealing symptoms weeks after ingestion.
Confectionery items, often found in Easter baskets, may contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener highly toxic to dogs. Caution is necessary, as even a small amount of xylitol can lead to severe symptoms like lethargy and seizures. Moreover, Easter baskets themselves, adorned with plastic grass and small toys, pose a risk of digestive obstruction if ingested by curious pets.
Lilies, commonly found in Easter bouquets, are beautiful but deadly to cats. Every part of the lily plant, including the water it sits in, can cause kidney failure and, if left untreated, may prove fatal. Recognising symptoms like dehydration and vomiting is vital in seeking prompt veterinary care for feline companions exposed to lilies.
Sadly, many of these toxins may not exhibit symptoms until irreversible damage has occurred, particularly affecting the kidneys. Therefore, pet owners must exercise caution and preventive measures during Easter festivities.
To ensure a pet-friendly Easter, consider these precautions:
• Keep chocolate and other sweets out of reach of pets, and promptly dispose of any dropped or forgotten treats.
• Opt for pet-safe decorations and avoid using plastic grass and small toys in Easter baskets.
• Educate friends and family about feline-friendly bouquets and keep lilies out of reach.
• Monitor pets closely for any signs of illness or distress, and seek veterinary care at the first sign of trouble.
By being mindful of potential hazards, we can ensure a happy Easter holiday weekend for everyone. If you need assistance over the Easter period phone Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.
post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.
Ed is a beautiful boofy boy that has a very adventurous personality. He is strong on lead and will need an owner that has the time to put into basic training. Ed is a vibrant, happy boy that does sit when asked and is eager to please. With the right owner, time and love Ed will make a great companion.
Cost: $99 Age: 2 Years and 4 Months
Type: Dog Breed: American Staffordshire Terrier
Sex: Male
Are you looking for a young, vibrant dog to brighten your day? Bruno is a very happy, outgoing pup that would be an amazing addition to your family. Bruno walks well on lead and has a goofy, playful, friendly nature. At just 12 months of age Bruno has his lifetime to make you smile and get into all sorts of mischief! If Bruno is the one for you, please come and meet him anytime during open hours..
Cost: $99 Age: 1 Year Type: Dog
Breed: Mastiff Sex: Male
BY NOEL ROWSELL
DAVID
is a well-known and highly successful businessman in the Nepean District. He is also a founding member of #The Great Walk Foundation, a local fund-raising endeavour which is now in its 17th year.
The Crossman family has a strong history in the Nepean district and David has lived a life worthy of that lineage, as a family man, a businessman and a philanthropist.
David’s great-grandfather moved to Penrith to work and live in 1879 and the Crossman lineage in the district is unbroken from that time, although it has been located in several different areas of the Nepean district over the ensuing years.
David’s grandfather Jack lived his life in Penrith / Wallacia and the Crossmans were a prominent family
in both hospitality (Westbourne) and in the building industry. Jack and his wife Jane (nee Sales) gave generously to the Wallacia community and there is a reserve named after them in the town (Crossman Reserve).
David has lived in the Nepean/Blue Mountains district his whole life, born in Nepean Hospital, lived with his family (parents John and Elaine and 3 siblings) in Wallacia, and attended Wallacia PS and Nepean HS.
As with his father John, David has a common interest with all things mechanical. John Crossman was a motor mechanic and established Crossman’s Garage in Wallacia.
“David is passionate about most things associated with sport,” said his brother Ken. “He (David) became a committed South Sydney Rabbitohs fan in the mid-1960’s and bleeds Cardinal and Myrtle.
“This was prior to the Penrith Panthers moving into the First Division competition in 1967 and he
Julie and David (Wedding)
is also a long-time supporter of the Panthers players and Club.
“He (David) also participated in a triathlon, acting as the guide for local hero and blind competitor Ched Towns. My memory says a documentary was filmed for this event.”
David and Julie were married in January 1978 and settled in the Blue Mountains. They have two children, Matthew and Megan, and three grandchildren. “David’s family has always been the centre of his life,” said Ken.
Best friend and business partner Jack Cowan said “I have known David since high school and we became good mates. He moved into
my mother’s place at Emu Plains when his parents moved to Taree.
“David undertook his mechanical apprenticeship with Ron Barrett Motors and worked on NRMA Roadside as well. After that, he worked as a car salesman, then owned a roof tile truck, car hire, then was Service Manager until we bought Central Motors ( Penrith Mitsubishi ).
“David and I worked together at home, after hours, doing mechanical work, and in 1990 we bought into Central Motors, which we co-owned for 12 years.
“We bought a motel at Faulconbridge, which David completely renovated, and nowadays, he is a broker.
“David always helps people in need. He is a great person to know and have a drink with and can tell you a story or two!
“David also played Rugby League for Cabramatta in both 1st and 2nd
David Crossman was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Larry Davis.
If you know a local legend, send us a nomination at nepeannews@aol.com
grade, winning premierships, and also played Pennant Golf for Springwood Golf Club.”
#The Great Walk Foundation has donated around $1.5m to charities through its ‘Community Charity,’ over a 17-year period. Its members are: Tony Bowden, Cameron McInnes, Greg Nelson, Jonathan Green, Graham O’Kell, Rob Wearn, Mark Mulock and David Crossman.
Photos provided by family
David, Camille, Matthew
Megan, Henry, Camille, David and Harriet
BY NOEL ROWSELL
MELANIE Ball has stepped up to the plate in support of Cancer research, having her flowing locks cropped this week as a major fund-raising endeavour.
Melanie started working for Nepean Cancer Care Centre on 5th February and wanted to demonstrate dedication to her division and the community she and her colleagues serve by participating in Shave for a Cure.
“My friend is undergoing therapy at our centre. I wasn’t nervous but was excited to do something for my community. My hair will grow back and it’s a small price to pay for something that may help further cancer research to find a cure someday.
“I am fund-raising via the attached QR code. The funds will go to the Leukemia Foundation and the hair will go to the Kids with Cancer Foundation to make a wig for children.
“People can continue to donate via the attached QR code or via the link http://my.leukaemiafoundation. org.au/melaniesaville
“I’m hoping to raise $3,000 and have currently raised $1,772 ($1,697 online and $75 cash) that I’ll donate to the page under the name NCCC, so
I have a bit to go.
“The new haircut feels weird but great and somehow freeing!”
Tania Ball, Cancer System Innovations Manager said “We had a few staff also spray their hair in support. This was done at the front
of Nepean Cancer Care and patients were very impressed with her (Mel’s) efforts. Thank you again for highlighting this.
“Hairdresser Terri Martino (Impressions by Terri) also volunteered her services.”
9
11
12
13
16 Rushed (7)
20
21 Hurricane (9)
25 In an unspecified manner (7)
26 Stumbled (7)
(5)
28 Detach or break apart (7)
29 Having a superior position (7)
DOWN
1 Hexes (6)
2 Found in gasoline (6)
3 An Indian tribe of New Mexico (4)
4 An association of sports teams (6)
5 Guesses (8)
6 Disperses (10)
7 Relating to the stars (8)
8 Female protagonists (8)
14 Aristocracy (10)
16 Slope (8)
17 Located farthest back (8)
18 Away from the wind (8)
22 Aboriginal (6)
23 A parentless child (6)
24 Drive up the wall (6)
27 Hotels (4)
BANG Bang You’re Dead will be presented by local theatre group Ruby Productions in April. It is written by William Mastrosimone, directed by Anthony Brown with Jessica Hanlon as the Assistant Director.
Bang Bang You’re Dead is a visceral examination of the culture that can breed violence in contemporary society, and a heart-breaking introspection of the aftermath of that violence. Alone in the darkness, teenager Josh is woken by a flashlight and a voice asking, “Why me?”
Performance dates: Friday April 12 at 7pm and Saturday April 13 at 7pm, and Sunday April 14 at 3pm and 7pm.
**STRICTLY LIMITED SEATING**
Please note, this show has some violence and strong themes.
BOOK TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/ CPJPE Or Reserve seats at Rubyproductions99@gmail. com
TICKETS: $30 ADULTS $25 CONCESSIONS
Several NSW Fire Service members wearing their new ‘Respect, Protect, Value’ t-shirts at the Archibald Fountain. Photo courtesy of Luciano Vranich
This week marks one year in government for Premier Chris Minns and the Labor team.
A great time was had at the St Marys Town Centre Easter event!
Presented by The Harbour Agency
TWO of Australia’s most applauded performers, Darren Coggan and Damien Leith, are back on stage and in good company, as they celebrate the songs that shook the world, by the artists that changed it.
Individually, their critically acclaimed portraits of Roy Orbison, Cat Stevens, Elvis Presley, John Denver and The Beatles, have had audiences on their feet across the globe on every occasion. Now, together in one grand concert, Darren and Damien re-live the songs that the whole world sang along with, accompanied by the lush sounds of ‘A Good Company of Strings Quartet’.
The two-hour show is back-to-back hits with immortal songs from the treasure trove of music history; Pretty Woman, Hey Jude, Father & Son, Country Roads, Rhinestone Cowboy and so many more. Set against the backdrop of popular culture, the stories and the messages in these songs are timeless, they have become part of the fabric of our existence and the foundation of popular music as we know it today.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
WILLIAM Hunt (Glenmore Park - Supersport 300), Elijah Andrew (Marayong - OJC), Zachary Russo (Sackville North - OJC) and Adam Jordan (East Kurragong - OJC) were all in action at Sydney Motorsport Park on 22nd23rd March, racing in a round of the Australian Superbike Series (ASBK).
Matthew Hunt (William’s father) said “The weekend was challenging but rewarding. A mechanical issue in the first practice session sidelined our main race bike for the weekend, which meant William was on his spare bike.
“Qualifying was great, with William achieving his personal best lap time (by 1 second) putting him in 15th out of 25 (Last year he was 25th).
“In the races, there was more learning with race craft and the new competition, and in race 3 it was a damp track, racing on slicks. This was a new experience with a couple of close calls.
“By the end of the weekend William finished 17th overall. Flair Dancewear (Wetherill Park) has come
on board as a sponsor for William this year.”
The top three riders in each race category for the 2-day round at SMSP were:
Australian Superbike - Josh
EMU PLAINS Cricket Club 2023-24 season started with the registration of 114 Junior Players and 112 Senior Players across 9 Junior Teams and 6 Senior Teams.
We were the only club with senior Grades filled 1 through to 6.
Emu Plains Cricket Club competed very well in all teams across both Junior and Senior Competitions, coming into the final rounds, all teams were still in finals contention.
We finished the season remarkably well, with all junior teams in competition age groups making the finals and 5 of our 6 senior sides also making the finals.
Our club ended up winning 7 Premierships across the junior and senior competitions,
Under 12’s, 13’s, 15’s and 16’s in the juniors and 1st, 2nd and 4th Grade in the seniors.
Every Grand Final we contested was won, which is something very special for our club.
As well as those 7 Premierships, our club entered two sides into this season’s Nepean District Cricket Association T20 competition.
EPCC’s B Grade had great success taking out their Grand Final, this group of players were a good mix from across a few different grades in our club, they all enjoyed their time together and played very well.
Our club this season, continues it’s great history dating back to 1848, as mentioned our playing numbers are very strong, we have highly committed coaches and managers, as well as our great link between our juniors and seniors with plenty of opportunities for junior players to step up into senior cricket in the afternoons.
Our Cricket Blast Program continues to grow in support with our participant numbers increasing quite significantly from last year.
We are proud to have our senior players as the Cricket Blast coaches for our club.
Emu Plains Cricket Club has an Under 9’s side
once again, with the return of the Under 9’s fixture in our district, which is fantastic, as this age group’s fixture is the first step into playing cricket coming up from the Cricket Blast Program.
We look forward to see you all back next season with us at Emu.
‘Go The Bird!’
GThe action continued through the second week, with 10-Goal games on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (semi-finals), and all grades will conclude on the Easter Weekend.
The updated draw can be found on both the Polo Matchmaker and Polo NSW FB pages.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
LEONAY GC has captured the 2024 Division 5 Men’s Major Pennant title but the result went down to the wire, with team captain Adam Brennen winning his match on the 19th hole to give Leonay the Pennant Flag.
With scores locked at 3 wins apiece, other members of Leonay and Bondi’s squads faced a nervous wait, as Adam and his opponent went down the 19th to break their 18-hole tie.
Leonay’s winners on the day were Anthony Wright 7&6, David Stevenson 1-up, Zachary Lange 2&1 and Adam Brennen 19th.
Team co-manager Bob Chruszcz was ecstatic with the win. “It’s been 25 years of struggle (to win the club’s second Pennant flag). Our aim at the beginning
(of the season) was to form a team to win the division.
“It was good to see our team captain square the match on 18, then bring it home down 19.”
Fellow co-manager Peter Walker said promotion to Division 4 was the motivation required to drive the team to victory.
The full Leonay squad is Adrian Kuipers, Anthony Wright, David Stevenson, Zachary Lange, Peter Homan, Adam Brennen, Jake Thompson, Daniel Worthy, Dean Watson, co-managers Bob Chruszcz and Peter Walker.
There was no such joy for Glenmore Heritage Valley in Division 3, falling 4-3 to Manly. Despite the loss, Glenmore will move up to Division 2 in 2025. Glenmore’s winners were Ben Michelmore 5&4, Steve Zingle 3&2 and David Bishop 4&3.
The full Glenmore squad is: Matthew Talley (c), Andrew Robb, Steven Zingle, David Bishop, Scott
Dowswell, Will Hoven, Ben Michelmore, Matthew Mayers (manager).
There was a strong western Sydney connection in the win by Concord in the Division 1 Men’s Pennant, with local juniors Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs), Ti Fox (Richmond) and Chayse Thorpe (Richmond) all playing for Concord, and the squad was led by manager David Northey (Penrith). Ti and Chayse both won their matches, the former 2&1 and the latter 7&5.
Three local juniors also competed in the 2024 Wagga Wagga Junior Masters over 24th - 25th March, with Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC) finishing tied 4th outright and also tied 4th in 16 Years and over, whilst Riley Cleminson (Penrith GC) tied 35th outright and tied 17th in 14/15 Years. In the Girls division, Jessica Fog (Penrith GC) finished tied 10th outright and 6th in 14/15 Years.
COBY Carruthers (Jordan Springs) is one of twelve NSW athletes named in the 2024 Golf NSW High-Performance Squad.
The successful candidates were part of a 41-strong selection, made in consultation with Golf Australia. The selection boasts the names of several of the State’s brightest prospects, plus one or two who are well on their way to achieving at the highest levels of the sport.
The selected 12 NSW Athletes are:
TIER ONE: Harrison Crowe, Jeffrey Guan, Grace Kim and Stephanie Kyriacou. TIER THREE: Coby Carruthers, Jye Halls, Rachel Lee, Will Moody, Declan O’Donovan, Annika Rathbone, Jake Riley and Ella Scaysbrook.
Tier Three golfers are developing amateurs who show the potential ability to compete successfully at national and international levels, and exhibit the desire and commitment, both on and off the golf course, to be a future tier two athlete.
Khan Pullen, Golf NSW HighPerformance Manager, congratulated the selected athletes, adding that it was the start of a journey that several of the state’s brightest players had followed to success domestically and internationally.
“Every year, for the past decade or so, the Golf NSW High Performance Program has produced “tour-ready” graduates who have commenced their professional career.
“Names like Cameron Davis, Harrison Endycott, and Brett Drewitt have gone on to play at the highest level, including winning on the PGA Tour, competing in Majors, and achieving top-100 World Rankings.
“Others, like Travis Smyth and Kevin Yuan, have had success
domestically, in Asia and have tasted “big-time” golf through the LIV golf league.”
“The athletes in the High Performance squad will receive assistance with funding to compete in elite amateur competitions, in addition to tuition in a high-performance training environment through their State HP programs.
“The state programs are critical to creating elite-level golfers. Australia boasts some of the best coaches and
service providers in the world, and they are here to support these young players at a critical time in their development.”
Coby is a member of both Concord and Dunheved Golf Clubs and was understandably delighted to be chosen for his second year in the NSW High Performance Squad, saying “I’m really happy to be in the squad again, I felt like last year I improved a lot, on and off the golf course, with work done in the gym and practicing and playing so much each week in a competitive environment with the team. I look forward to improving in every aspect of my game whilst being in the squad. Just making the NSW state team definitely changes my thoughts about staying an amateur. I’d like to go even further and even try to get in the Australian squad.
2026 will be the year hopefully I make it into that squad. If not, I will definitely think about turning professional, but things could change. At the moment I’m really happy with how I’m progressing, just trying to improve every aspect of my golf and my life to benefit me in the future.”
Coby and Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) both played last week in the South Australian Classic, which was held at Royal Adelaide GC from 19th - 22nd March. Kade finished 9th and Coby finished tied 25th.
Vegas done, where next?
With reports Penrith will be one of the sides to open the 2025 season, it’s probably time to start looking even further at growing the game on the international stage. We’ve done Vegas, and depending on who you listen to it was a success and the first steps towards global domination. It was a bit baffling to see how we promoted our game by wearing NFL gear and applying lip-to-bum contact whilst in the US. When we eventually get the rectinol off our lips, we should try growing the game in other tourist hot spots.
Russia with the polar bears? Yes it’s going to be cold, but we play in Canberra in the middle of the winter and it will only do more to whip the Bring Back The Bears brigade into a frenzy. All eyes watching if Peter V’landys and Vlad Putin would get on well, although suspicions may be raised if PVL came back with a full head of hair speaking with a Russian accent.
Tora Bora? (not to be confused with Bora Bora) is a cave complex in a mountain range of eastern Afghanistan: Bone dry desert conducive to dry weather footy which will bring the fans back. There are 97 television stations in the country so there is plenty of room to showcase the game between the falcon racing, camel racing, and live stream from Mecca. Oh yeah and there are bunkers galore for those who are disgruntled with officialdom and want to blow them up every week.
Serengeti? Known for the great migration of wild animals there’s certain to be a random Souths guy roaming the vast expanse of this region of Africa. Again, dry conditions with plenty of sunshine and hot nights equals dry weather footy. David Attenborough in the commentary box adds more viewers because let’s face it, we’d listen to him reading his shopping list.
Eddie Maguire would be delighted two Sydney sides sit on top of the AFL ladder while his defending premiers Collingwood sit 0-3! It’s brilliant for the code in Sydney and drives the rivalry between the Swans and Giants to a whole new level when both are winning.
Is it too early to talk about playing the grand final in Sydney?
MG is back!
IT may have taken 24 years but the Geyer name will return to the Penrith Panthers NRL team sheet on Thursday when Mavrik Geyer makes his NRL debut against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.
The son of Panthers great Mark Geyer comes from exceptional rugby league bloodlines as the nephew of Panthers Hall of Fame inductee Greg Alexander. It continues the Geyer/Alexander lineage at the club which goes back to the 1980s.
He’s a big, strong running back-rower and comes into a triple premiershipwinning pack where he will learn week by week. This debut has Panthers fans excited, and for those who saw his father and uncle play, nostalgic.
This is going to be good to watch.
There were fans galore at Westfield last Friday to meet the mighty Penrith Panthers.
1. What age did you start playing footy?
2. Favourite Song? Joy of my Life – Chris Stapleton
3. Apart from Bluebet Stadium what is your favourite other ground to play at? Suncorp Stadium
4. Favourite Movie? Batman – The Dark Knight Rises
5. If not footy what would you be doing? Barista
6. Favourite TV Series? Power
7. What 3 famous people would you’d love to have a night out with? Kevin Hart, Chirs Tucker, Lebron James
8. Favourite Video Game? 2K Golf – Tiger Woods Edition
9. Favourite other Sport and Athlete? Golf / Tiger Woods
10. What is your death row meal? Spag Bowl – Old Faithful
Date of Birth:
July 1999
Birthplace: Sydney, NSW
Age: 24
Nickname: Daino
Height: 181cm
Weight: 83kg
Debut Club: Penrith Panthers
Date: 8 August 2020
Opposition: Canberra Raiders
Round: 13
Previous Club: Wests Tigers
Junior Club: Lower Clarence Magpies, Grafton Ghosts
IN what was supposed to be a much-anticipated 2023 grand final replay at the foot of the mountains last Thursday night, it didn’t quite go to plan for the boys from Brisvegas.
The Broncos, already going into the match without star players Adam Reynolds and Payne Haas, were rocked further in the 4th minute of play, they lost another star player when Reece Walsh had a nasty headon collision with Panthers centre Taylan ’Tiny” May. Walsh left the field and would take no further part in the game.
Scans revealed the day after that he had broken his cheekbone. Ouch! But far from feeling sorry for their counterparts, the men in black put their foot on the throats of the Broncos and started their demolition. With main man Nathan Cleary leading the way.
So good was Cleary that the 8th Immortal Andrew Johns labelled his game “probably the best I’ve ever seen him play.” Nathan finished the night with 3 try assists, 3 line break assists, and 4 tackle breaks. Making it look quite easy with the amount of time he had on his hands when probing Brisbane’s defence.
Backing the mercurial number 7 up on the night were Moses Leota, who set a fantastic platform without his bash brother James Fisher-Harris. Dylan Edwards ran for over 300 metres, and young guns Lindsay Smith and Liam Henry had their best games in the top grade. In fact 11 of the 17 Panther players all ran for over 100 metres!
For the Broncos, Pat Carrigan was by far their best. But a 34-12 victory
to the home side was emphatic. Tago and May are fast becoming the competition’s leading centre pair. Jerome Luai is easing himself methodically into the season and Marto roaming the right edge is always dangerous.
The Panthers now shift their focus to the rampaging Roosters this Thursday night at Allianz.
The Roosters have started the year in good form with a dominant victory over their arch rivals the Rabbitohs last Friday night, with James Tedesco’s start to the season leaving everyone who questioned his status in the game with egg on their faces.
Victor Radley has obviously had an epic off-season, and any team with Joey Manu in their team more than dangerous.
In other news around the league the Warriors and Raiders played out a real tough match in Christchurch with Tohu Harris leading from the front in obtaining a victory.
The Bulldogs got their first win of the season on the back of ex Panther Billy Kikau. The Dragons capitulated after leading 12-0 against competition leaders, the Cowboys, to go down 4624. Benji Marshall’s Tigers produced the upset of the round in netting the Sharks 32-0! Parra and Manly played
out an awesome game at Comm Bank Stadium with the Eels prevailing 2824.
And the last game of round 3 saw Newcastle grab their first 2 points of the year.
Alarmingly the Rabbitohs side are in last position on the ladder with an almost do-or-die clash this Friday against the Bulldogs.
BRING ON ROUND 4.
See you at the game…...
Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.
MG (random Westie) OAM
