Nepean News 29 September 2023

Penrith Council’s

Police Cottage

revamp nominated for Sustainability Award

BY KERRIE DAVIES

PENRITH

Council’s remarkable transformation of the historic Police Cottage into a sustainable café and restaurant has earned a well-deserved spot on the shortlist for the Sustainability Awards 2023 in the Adaptive Reuse (Alteration/Addition) category. This achievement recognises the dedication to preserving heritage whilst embracing a greener future.

The project garnered excitement within the community, as it promised not only to breathe new life into the historic site but also to showcase Penrith’s commitment to sustainability.

The revitalisation of the Police Cottage into a café and restaurant included Council’s innovative idea to retain the original structure of the building by reusing over 80 per cent of the original materials.

Visitors can now step back in time to experience the historical architecture of 1908 whilst soaking up views of the Nepean River and enjoying a

coffee or meal at the restaurant.

Stay tuned for the winner’s announcement at the Sustainability Awards Gala in November, hosted by Architecture & Design and check out the shortlist for the awards in this link https://brnw. ch/21wCTQR

95B STATION ST, PENRITH

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BY KERRIE DAVIES

THIS week there’s such an exciting vibe around town as we celebrate the remarkable journey of the Penrith Panthers as they march in to hopefully claim their third consecutive Premiership. The Panthers have not only become a source of inspiration but a testament to the power of unity, determination, and exceptional coaching led by Ivan Cleary.

The team’s success transcends mere victories; it embodies the unbreakable connection they share, both on and off the field. It’s a connection forged through countless hours of training, unwavering support for one another, and a shared dream of bringing glory to Penrith. This bond extends to the fan base, instilling a sense of pride and togetherness that reverberates through the streets.

The amazing players are mostly local boys and their journey serves as a beacon of hope for local kids. They’ve shown that with hard work and dedication, dreams can be transformed into reality, regardless of where you come from. They’ve become role models, exemplifying the potential within our community and inspiring our youth to reach for the stars.

At the helm, Ivan Cleary’s superb coaching has been instrumental in shaping the Panthers into the formidable force we witness today. His strategic brilliance, mentorship, and ability to nurture the talents of the players have been invaluable. Under his guidance, the Panthers have risen to new heights.

As we eagerly anticipate the grand final, lets rally behind our Panthers, for not only are they a fabulous team they embody the heart and soul of Penrith. And we don’t want the win to go to QLD! There’s a bit of redemption desired from the State of Origin bruising!

Bring on the three-peat! The Panthers have already achieved greatness, both on and off the field. Win or lose, their journey is a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork, dedication, and unwavering belief.

Go Panthers!

Supporting Silverdale firies – one burger at a time!

THE hot weather has brought big fires to western Sydney, and Rapid Relief Team volunteers are on the ground making sure local firefighters have the nourishment they need to respond with gusto.

A team of 25 RRT volunteers from the Penrith region fed an estimated 140 firefighters who were keeping communities around Wallacia and Silverdale safe.

“An order to serve 140 hungry firies over two days with basically no notice is a tall one, but we’ve got the equipment and volunteers to do it and were happy to step up,” said Local Penrith RRT Team Leader, Brian Lee.

“Gone are the days of cold food and bad coffee in polystyrene cups. We make sure firies have top notch food so they have the energy they need to do the job we all need them to do.

“Our team of around 25 RRT volunteers were serving our signature burgers and prestige sausage rolls.

“Hopefully the cool change that has come through overnight will help the emergency

responders get the situation under control, but if not, we can lend a hand again as needed.”

The Rapid Relief Team is the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.

Established in 2013, RRT has more than 14,500 volunteers around the world who assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support.

Shadow Cabinet hosting

BY MELISSA MCINTOSH MP

LAST week I hosted Shadow Cabinet members across our Lindsay community.

We had a women’s breakfast to celebrate the amazing work of so many small business people, community advocates, and many more.

A highlight was announcing a new set of local awards, including the Lindsay Women in Leadership Award, the Lindsay Aussie Made Business Award, the Lindsay Community Service Award, the Lindsay Educator of the Year Award, and the Lindsay Healthy Active Living Award.

Opie Manufacturing is a family business in Emu Plains. They are a manufacturer and metal processor. They employ over 90 people and are continually expanding their operations and investing in more equipment. Opposition

Leader Peter Dutton and I got a tour from Tristan who is the grandson of the founder and runs the company alongside his sister.

I visited Ribs and Roast at Manufactor with Deputy Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Industry and Small Business Sussan Ley. They make brisket and other meat products. It’s yet another fantastic business in our community producing quality goods for Australians.

Our Health and Aged Care spokesperson Anne Ruston toured The Royce and met with Western Sydney community pharmacists to discuss the government’s changes to dispensing policy.

Transport shadow minister Bridget McKenzie visited Western Sydney Airport and JK Williams.

Shadow Minister for the NDIS and Homelessness Michael Sukkar hosted a rountable with

local providers and met with a youth homelessness service provider.

Defence spokesperson Andrew Hastie met with Vietnam veterans at the St Marys outpost train.

Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor met with Christ Mission Possible in Penrith to talk about their services and cost of living issues with Finance spokesperson Jane Hume.

Jonno Duniam, our Environment, Fisheries and Forestry shadow minister toured a conservation site in Mulgoa with the Cumberland Land Conservation group.

Resources spokesperson

Susan McDonald met with Mulgoa Quarries.

The Coalition’s Education spokesperson Sarah Henderson met with Penrith Christian School.

Communications shadow minister David Coleman and Paul Fletcher, spokesperson for science, met with AusComply and Western Sydney University’s Launch Pad.

Our energy spokesperson caught up with Coffey Engineering.

I thank them for coming to Penrith and surrounds to listen to people and businesses about what’s happening on the ground in Lindsay.

New Mayor, Deputy elected to lead Penrith

BY KERRIE DAVIES

PENRITH

Councillor Todd Carney was has been elected as Mayor of the City for the first time at September’s Ordinary Meeting of Council with Councillor Mark Davies elected as Deputy Mayor.

Councillor Carney succeeds Councillor Tricia Hitchen in the role and will serve a one-year term as Mayor, taking him through until the Local Government Election in September 2024.

The shortened term is a result of the one-year postponement to Local Government Election in 2020 due to the pandemic, with the cycle returning to its prescribed four-year term again in 2024.

Born and raised in Western Sydney, Cr Carney was elected to Council in 2016 and calls Glenmore Park home with his wife and three children. Starting an apprenticeship as a heavy vehicle mechanic at the age of 16, he is now a Service Manager for a leading international crane manufacturer and has served as an electorate officer for the then Lindsay MP, David Bradbury.

The newly elected Mayor thanked his Councillor colleagues for the opportunity to serve in the role.

“I have been asked what my priorities will be over the next 12 months – that’s a hard question to answer as we have a list of delivery programs underway with projects like Regatta Park, City Park, our day-and night-time economies, the Gipps Street Recreation Precinct and our WestInvest city transforming projects,” Cr Carney said.

“However, like my predecessor Cr Hitchen, I have a keen focus on St Marys and what opportunities we can leverage there with the (Western Sydney Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and metro rail line.”

Cr Carney said Council has started to lay the foundations for a strong future through the St Marys Structure Plan but there is more work to be done.

“St Marys Central Park will be

fantastic and we have an opportunity to build on this, to give people a place where they can work, live and play. Our community is crying out for dining options, and we also need to continue discussions with the business community… we need to get the planning right.”

“It is a true honour for me to be elected by my peers to carry out the role of Mayor over the next 12 months.

“The significance of this role dawns on you when you are reminded of those before you who have made such an important contribution to our community over the decades. People such as Ron Mulock, Faye LoPo, Pat Sheehy, David Bradbury and Greg Davies.

“Council has a massive delivery program over the next 5-10 years with a number of projects well under way

Startup success

COUNCIL is excited to be partnering with SSE - Sydney School of Entrepreneurship to deliver a series of six free online and inperson workshops for new and early-stage startup founders in Penrith City, starting Wednesday 4 October.

Whether you’re at the start of your entrepreneurial journey and have an idea you want to explore, or you are already in business and looking to build your customer base or better understand how to leverage networking or access funding, you’ll find a workshop to suit.

The Startup Success program has been specially

like Regatta Park, Penrith’s City Park, the night and daytime economies in Penrith and St Marys, Gipps Street recreational precinct and $158 million in city shaping projects,” Mayor Todd Carney said.

Outgoing Mayor Tricia Hitchen thanked those who had helped her during what she recalled as “a memorable Mayoral term.”

Cr Hitchen said she was in the role just a few short weeks before the City was devastated by a wet weather event, causing severe flooding in parts of the region and ‘major’ flood warnings for the Nepean River.

During her term, she saw residents reunite at Council events that reactivated Penrith and St Marys, and she opened key pieces of infrastructure up to the community.

Cr Hitchen called for the delivery of the City’s first accessible

designed to give participants access to a range of educational and skills-based business resources and enable networking between and exposure to other startups.

Workshops include:

✔ Small Business Startup

✔ Test your Business Idea

✔ Structuring your Small Business Startup

✔ Building a Customer Base

✔ Finance, Funding and Risk

✔ Present Your Small Business Startup Visit https://brnw.ch/21wCVJB for more information and to register today.

changeroom, which opened in 2017 along High Street. There are now six changing places facilities throughout the region, with more to come.

Her passion for supporting domestic violence victims, which stems from her 25 years of service in the NSW Police Force, led to the Mayoral Charity Ball which saw Council and the community band together to raise a remarkable $60,000 for The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter in May.

“I will be forever grateful to everyone who contributed to help so many of these local women and their families on the path to a safer, brighter future,” Cr Hitchen concluded.

Cr Mark Davies was elected as Deputy Mayor at the September Ordinary Meeting. Cr Davies joined Council in 2004 and served as Mayor from 2012-2013.

Cr Hitchen with Mayor Todd Carney

Deputy Mayor Mark Davies and Mayor Todd Carney

First stage of Regatta Park to open this week

PENRITH residents and visitors will be able to enjoy more of the Nepean River this spring, with the first stage of Regatta Park to open just in time for the October Long Weekend.

An adventure playspace, multiuse lawn space, shaded picnic and BBQ areas, pathways leading to the river foreshore, over-water viewing platforms and kayak launch areas will be ready to enjoy.

The initial section of the 90-space car park will also be open with many more spaces to come in stage two.

Penrith Councillor Tricia Hitchen encouraged the community to head out and make the most of the new park facilities.

“Thank you to our residents for their ongoing patience and support while we continue to bring our shared vision for Regatta Park to life,” Cr Hitchen said.

“I can’t wait to see the park buzzing with families and friends getting together for picnics, children enjoying the playspace and people soaking up the river views.”

The River Road and Great Western Highway intersection has been closed and relocated to be opposite Lamrock Street, with new traffic lights installed and operational as part of the realignment of River Road.

Vehicular traffic continuing along River Road will be temporarily diverted via York Street whilst final works are being undertaken to connect the new and existing sections of the road. A new footpath along River Road is also open for pedestrians.

“These road changes will increase pedestrian safety, improve traffic flow along River Road, and provide better access to the Great Western Highway

for residents and visitors,” Cr Hitchen said.

“In time, the old section of River Road which runs through the middle of Regatta Park will become a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists as part of the Great River Walk along the Nepean River.”

The Western Sydney City Deal is a partnership between the Australian and NSW Governments and the eight Councils of the Western Parkland City.

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh said the Nepean River is at the heart of our community and connects us all.

“The opening of the stage one upgrade to Regatta Park will enable more local people to access our river, particularly along the foreshore with new over-water platforms,” McIntosh said.

“This project is a key part of creating spaces for healthy, active living for our entire community to enjoy – from our local children who will enjoy the brand new adventure

playspace to families getting out on the weekend.”

“This will help make our community an even better place to live, work and stay.”

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP said it was wonderful to see the first stage of the park come to fruition.

“The Regatta Park project is further boosting the appeal of the already popular Nepean River precinct and is a great example of all levels of government working together to deliver for the community.”

Stage two will open in early 2024 and includes a junior cricket oval, outdoor gym equipment, more car parking spaces, central staircase leading to the river foreshore, a new shared path, 400 new trees throughout the park, and more.

A 112-metre pavilion with undercover water play, amenities building, and kiosk will open in mid2024.

Keep up to date at: yoursaypenrith. com.au/regatta-park

Paula says farewell to her ‘second home’

FOR over 20 years, Paula Fenton’s presence has been a comforting constant in the bustling corridors of Mount Druitt Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).

Often hailed as the very heart of the ED, Paula’s recent retirement marks the end of an era after over two decades of service, most recently as a Clinical Support Officer.

She describes Mount Druitt Hospital lovingly as her “second home.”

Starting her journey in 2000, Paula initially joined Mount Druitt Hospital’s ED donning various roles including communications clerk. She later transitioned to the Children’s Ward, Ward 2B, serving as a Clinical Support Officer.

Her commitment and adaptability shone particularly bright during the COVID-19 pandemic when she took up a pivotal role as an Executive

Assistant to the Director of Nursing for the WSLHD Integrated and Community Health team. Looking back at that challenging period, Paula said it remains a “precious and proud memory.”

“I was so proud of how staff came together during COVID-19, offering mutual support. The daily office chats, the camaraderie, the friendship, and the immense support

from the hospital staff over the years is something I’ll deeply miss.”

Paula’s departing message for her colleagues was a reminder of the passion that first brought them to their current roles, and the importance of serving the western Sydney community by providing quality health care and treatments and their families.

David

Glastonbury,

Nursing Unit

Manager of the ED, shared heartfelt sentiments about Paula’s departure.

“Her unparalleled enthusiasm, dedication, and sense of humour have made her an integral part of our team. Her unwavering commitment to putting patients and their families at the forefront is an inspiration to us all. We wish her a blissful retirement,” David said.

Mount Druitt Hospital’s Deputy Director of Nursing, Kirsty Wallis, also praised Paula’s legacy.

“Paula’s dedication to the WSLHD community over her 23 years of service is truly commendable. She’s been an invaluable asset to our ED.”

As she steps into a new chapter, Paula has exciting plans for her retirement. She looks forward to travelling, possibly residing abroad for a year, mastering a second language, and most importantly, spending treasured moments with her three grandchildren.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP, Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, and Penrith Councillor Tricia Hitchen standing in front of the new River Road and Great Western Highway intersection which is now open.

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM MP, and Penrith Councillor Tricia Hitchen, in front of Regatta Park’s adventure playspace.

Taking action towards a dementia-friendly future

BY STAFF FROM THE ROYCE

THE Royce community took action to show their support for Dementia Action Week, drawing inspiration from Dementia Australia’s compelling campaign, “Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future.” The involvement of our residents, dedicated care team, and the broader community is pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with dementia within our community.

This special week offered a wonderful opportunity to engage in a diverse calendar of enjoyable and inclusive activities, all designed to improve our understanding of dementia and to combat the fear, stigma, and discrimination often faced by those diagnosed with this condition.

Our Retirement Living and Aged Care Manor residents actively participated in a variety of activities to support Dementia Australia. Highlights included a screening of the poignant documentary, “Love is Listening: Dementia Without Loneliness,” was followed by an enlightening Q&A session with the filmmaker, who graciously joined us remotely from the United States. Additionally, we had the privilege of hosting Cath Manuel, a Therapeutic Horticulture Specialist from Soil to Supper, who shared insights on “Growing Together,” an enriching garden-based program tailored to individuals living with dementia, emphasizing the cultivation of fresh produce and overall well-being.

To cap off the week, we celebrated with a Fun Day welcoming Noro Music Therapy and the BUGS Ukulele Strummers from Blaxland who performed lively music. An image gallery featuring memories spanning the lives of our Aged Care residents was on display for all to see. Attendees also enjoyed a BBQ and a showcase of handcrafted items created by our residents, plus some wonderful baked goods, all available for sale. Thank you to all who helped raise more than three thousand dollars for Dementia Australia and the Royce Simmons Foundation.

The Royce Manor prides itself on its exceptional Memory Support Care, offering those living with dementia the option of integrated or specialised support. To learn more about our Memory Support offering, please contact our friendly team on 02 4744 6000.

Raychel sows seeds for next generation of lady tradies

TAFE NSW student and regional Training Awards winner Raychel White is determined to be the role model her younger self needed by urging young women to pursue a rewarding career in horticulture trades.

Data from the National Skills Commission shows that only 1 in 10 professional gardeners in Australia are women, despite men and women spending a similar amount of time gardening at home, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Admitting she thought trades were a “man’s job” a few years ago, Raychel took the plunge into a Certificate III in Nursery Operations and became the first ever female nursery employee in her workplace whilst completing an apprenticeship.

The 26-year-old adds State Finalist to her impressive career start, being named Apprentice of the Year Finalist in the 2023 NSW Training Awards at Sydney Town Hall on Friday night. The title follows her win as Apprentice of the Year for the 2023 Western Sydney and Blue Mountains Training Awards earlier this year.

“As a young woman in horticulture, being named a finalist in this prestigious competition is an important milestone not just for me, but for all young women working in trades or considering a trade for a career.”

Raychel works as a Nursery Supervisor for Inner West Council, where she oversees Community Native Plant Nurseries in Annandale and Marrickville and propagates local native plant species, whilst furthering her studies with a Certificate III in Horticulture at TAFE NSW Richmond.

“Growing up, I always loved plants and being outdoors, but it took me a long time to start my career in horticulture and to realise that trades aren’t just for men, but I could do it, too. I didn’t have any female role models to look up to, so I didn’t know it was an option for me.

“I want to encourage young girls to pursue a career they love no matter what it is, to try your hand at a trade and to see what doors open. You’ve got nothing to lose, only opportunities to gain.”

The annual NSW Training Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of students and apprentices in the vocational education and training

Sydney’s beauty scene just got a whole lot better

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sector, with finalists representing the best in their field.

TAFE NSW Chief Delivery Officer Janet Schorer said the NSW Training Awards competition was strong, with TAFE NSW finalists representing a range of in-demand industries providing critical services to NSW communities.

“The Hawkesbury region employs over 600 gardeners, with the industry expected to grow by another 14% nationally by 2026.

“Raychel is an example of the high-quality graduates TAFE NSW is training to meet skills demand now and into the future.”

Guitars for Vets

BY LEANNE MORGAN

THE Train Wrecks are a great bunch of blokes who have struck a chord with each other. Often, they are found strumming a tune or two and will take requests at times. They also seem to have a social media following as well as a live fan base. The Train Wrecks will often organise their own gigs entertaining (some would argue a captive audience) the Governor King Day Club or hanging out with their biggest fans at Dare Disability Springwood.

They have increased their instruments to include a bass guitar and kazoos in recent months. They are also increasing their repertoire of music; they are even working on an original piece which already sounds amazing. They continue to push through their comfort zone to better their skills, some are still learning the guitar and others are at an intermediate level. But whatever the level they are on they all help each other out. One member of the group mentioned how nervous he was to do a live performance, only to find that once he was playing regardless of it being a live performance, he fell into just enjoying playing.

To see them play, you can find them on our social media on Facebook and Instagram. For enquiries to play with the Train Wrecks please contact Leanne at St Marys Outpost Veterans Centre on 02 9833 4700.

Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families

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 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 - @ St Marys Diggers Club

Wellbeing activity for OCTOBER 2023

DATE ACTIVITY

EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat

EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets

Wednesday 25th October

Merrie Widows

EVERY THURSDAY Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes

Thursday 19th October War Widows Day

Thursday 26th October BBQ Breakfast

Friday 6th October

Barefoot Bowls

EVERY FRIDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

Saturday 14th October Walk n Talk

Please contact Leanne at the Outpost Veterans Support Centre (9833 4700 and vietvet@vvaastmarys.org.au) for any enquiries about any of the activities and to simply let us know you will be coming.

Back: Mick Reilly, Gabe Gaynor and Alan Jones. Front: Foster and Neil Stuart.

Western Sydney International Airport welcomes new arrivals

WESTERN Sydney International (NancyBird Walton) Airport (WSI) has welcomed 18 refugees and migrants to learn more about career opportunities at Sydney’s newest airport.

The new arrivals, aged between 18 and 45, are studying at Navitas Skilled Futures in the Adult Migrant English Program, an English language and settlement program funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs.

The students were selected as they all expressed interest in the employment possibilities offered at WSI.

WSI General Manager of Community Engagement and Social Impact Katy Hannouch said the program was about helping new arrivals to reach their full potential.

“Making the decision to leave your home country is never an easy one – but we want to do everything we can to support these individuals and that starts with helping them to find suitable employment in their chosen field,” Ms Hannouch said.

“Western Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse regions, which provides us with a unique opportunity to assist refugees and migrants to work on Australia’s largest infrastructure project - which just happens to be in their own backyard.

“We are offering employment opportunities in everything from construction to logistics and engineering to help refugees and migrants build their career at WSI through to the airport’s opening in 2026 and beyond.”

Electrical Engineer Arif Naweed recently arrived in Australia from Afghanistan with his wife and three children and hopes to find work at WSI.

“We want to make a future for our children in Australia and that starts here,” Mr Naweed said.

“Working at the airport is a good chance for every person. It would be great to be able to work here while I continue my education, hopefully I can also study a master’s degree.”

IT Engineer Maria fled Iran with her family in June for a better life in Western Sydney.

“We put everything on the line and went out to Australia, fleeing for our own safety,” Maria said.

“I hope to work at the airport and would like to thank people for this opportunity. It’s a chance to find out what work is available and to start a new life.”

Cambridge Park Lions and Westfield Penrith Collection Box for Charity

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Lions Club of Cambridge Park and Westfield Penrith Shopping Centre have launched a joint project, placing a large collection box in the forecourt of Woolworths Supermarket for non-perishable food, toiletries and toys for distribution to appropriate organisations.

Cambridge Park Lions will empty the collection box at least twice a week and distribute the goods, with the first distribution of four trolley loads headed to Westcare.

“This is the first time we have attempted this in our area and are very pleased to be doing it together

with (Westfield) centre management,” said Jan Eaton, President, Cambridge Park Lions.

“I was very pleased with the way things went, even though there were less people around than I was expecting.

“Lions worldwide currently have ‘Hunger’ as one of their 6 major fundraising causes, and we are lucky enough to have District N5 (basically Sydney) coordinator Derek Margerison in our Club. It was Derek who first showed me a similar box at Stanhope Gardens.

“I thought it was a great idea and consequently we approached Bek at Westfield Penrith Centre Management and it all started from there.

“This is initially only a 30-day trial, as obviously

there are some security concerns and we will just have to see how it goes, but I’m sure Westcare, who will benefit from last night’s collection, will be very pleased with the result.”

CP Lions members and Rebekah (Westfield Penrith)

First Donors. Photos supplied by CP Lions.

Westcare delivery

HUNTING HISTORY

FINAL MESSAGE: What do the Panthers mean to you?

The Panthers are just 80 minutes away from entering the NRL history books.

BY PANTHERS MEDIA

IF the Panthers defeat the Broncos this Sunday, they will become the first team to complete a historic three-peat since the iconic Parramatta team of the early 1980s.

2023 has already created many memorable moments and seen Panther Pride hit the Penrith community like never before.

You now have the chance to play your part in the club’s biggest test to date.

Tell the team what the club means to you, how you celebrate, why you bleed red, yellow and green and send them one last message ahead of the 2023 NRL Grand Final.

Please email your personal message of support and a photo in your Panthers gear to fan.mail@ panthers.com.au.

Whether you want to write a long message, or just a few words, our players can’t wait to hear from you.

All messages and photos will be posted up inside the Panthers Rugby League Academy prior to Sunday’s NRL Grand Final for the players to read as they prepare for what will be a thrilling finale to a memorable season.

ON THE

MARK

PANTHERS BID FOR GLORY!

BACK to back to back premiers in the NRL don’t come around all that often.

In fact there’s a reason it hasn’t been done since 81,82,83 when the Parramatta Eels last did it, because its so bloody hard to accomplish!

Especially in today’s game with a strict and stringent emphasis on the salary cap.

The Penrith Panthers are on the verge of greatness. To be where they are today after the dissection of their roster of the past several seasons is quite astonishing. Capewell, Burton, Koroisau, Kikau, Ciraldo and Webster all gone in the past 3 seasons with Crichton and Leniu leaving next season. All a byproduct of success.

Obviously to get to where they have gotten, the Panthers have a team all on the same page, and a system that affords the next man up not too intimidated when given the chance to perform.

A lot of plaudits must also be given to coach Ivan Cleary. When the above mentioned Ciraldo (defence coach) and Webster (attacking coach) left last season, a lot of eyes were on the head coach. And from an outsider looking in it would appear that Ivan hasn’t just answered the challenge, he has actually gone next level, from strength to strength as a mentor of men.

As for his charges?! Where do you start? Lets start from number 1. Dylan Edwards. At time of writing (Tuesday arvo) the Dally M player of the year hadn’t been named, Edwards must be close. What a season!

2. Sunia ‘Tito’ Turuva. Again would have to count himself unlucky not to be awarded the Dally M rookie of the year.

3. Izack Tago. Hasn’t played a lot of footy in the past couple of months but you get the feeling Sunday could be his day.

4. Stephen Crichton. The best centre in the game and will be sorely missed next year when he heads to the Bulldogs.

5. Brian To’o. Another incredible season from the ever reliable Mt Druitt messiah.

6. Jarome Luai. Will he stay or will he go? Whatever his decision it comes with the total blessing of every Panther fan and player. For the record I think ‘Romey” will remain a Panther.

7. Nathan Cleary. The game’s best player who has had the ball on a string of late. My tip for the Clive Churchill medal.

8. Moses Leota. Moses is getting better and better each season, his combination with the “Fish” a highlight.

9. Mitch Kenny. No Api no worries. He often sets the defensive standards in the best defensive team in the competition.

10. James Fisher-Harris. The Alpha male of his forward pack who demands respect whenever he takes the field.

11. Scott Sorensen. One of the Panthers best ever buys in my opinion, and like a glass of red wine he is getting better with age.

12. Liam Martin. Penrith’s number 1 “attack dog”, makes it personal whenever he takes the field.

13. Isaah Yeo. His past month of footy is up there with some of the best of his career.

14. Jack Cogger. Has filled the utility 6,7,9 spot with aplomb.

15. Lindsay Smith. One of the finds of this season’s premiership, fantastic season.

16. Spencer Leniu. ALWAYS makes a difference when he takes the field. and you also ALWAYS know when he’s come off the bench for action.

17. Luke Garner/ Zac Hosking. At the time of writing we were still not sure of the Panthers final 17 but whomever is given the last spot on the bench out of these two will be pinching themselves after both arriving in Penrith in the off-season with just the hope of making the top grade. A grand final birth must be a mind-blowing prospect for both men.

And what of the Panthers opponents this Sunday the Brisbane Broncos?

After finishing last three years ago in 2020, then 14th in 2021, and 9th last season, their turnaround to be Grand Finalists this year has been profound.

Like we did with the Panthers players, lets take a look at the Broncos team’s rise from the rugby league ashes.

1. Reece Walsh. the games new rockstar who has added an enormous amount of potency to the Broncos backline.

2. Jesse Arthars. Must think its an April fools joke to find himself on the wing in the biggest day of his sporting life.

3. Kotoni Staggs. Playing the best footy of his career.

4. Herbie Farnworth. Went down with an injury at training on Tuesday, the Broncos need him to play if they have any chance of victory.

5. Selwyn Cobbo. An out and out athlete who must be watched closely.

6. Ezra Mam. One of the most improved players in the comp and the fiveeighth of the year.

8. Tom Flegler. An origin forward who will mix it with the Panthers big boys.

9. Billy Walters. For mine the competition’s most improved player.

10. Payne Haas. The juggernaut MUST be stopped.

11. Kurt Capewell. Ex Panther who has had a calming influence on the baby Broncos.

12. Jordan Riki. Another solid season from an ultra reliable forward.

13. Pat Carrigan. Fantastic player with a massive motor. His match up with Yeoy will be epic!

14. Tyson Smoothy. A good foil for Walters when he takes the field.

15. Brendan Piakura. Very reliable backrower with great hands and hits a great hole.

16. Kobe Hetherington. Always does a job for Kevvy Walters.

17. Keenan Palasia. Has been a stand-out off the bench for the Broncos of late.

Whichever way you look at this game, it is the battle of the competition’s two best teams of 2023. This is the first time since 1966 that the same 2 teams have played both the first and the last game of the season. Its also the first time since 2005 we have a team from NSW and one from QLD vying for premiership honours.

And maybe something to take note of if you’re a Panther fan; In their past 73 games they have lost JUST ONCE when in front at halftime. WOW! That one loss was a state of origin affected game this year in round 16 against the Cowboys. So if the Panthers are leading at halftime history will tell you they are in a very nice position!

My predictions:

Score Penrith 28 Brisbane 14

First Try Scorer Dylan Edwards

Clive Churchill Medalist Nathan Cleary.

LETSSS GOOOOO PANTHERSSSSS!!!!!

If you’re looking for a new car, go see my mate Toby at Sinclair Hyundai. See you at the game!

MG (random Westie) OAM

7. Adam Reynolds. The architect behind Brisbane’s rebuild.

COACH’S CORNER NRL Grand Final Preview

WE have a Grand Final for the purists! The best two teams have navigated their way through the maze and journey that is the NRL season to face off in this Sunday’s decider.

Our home town Panthers hold the best attack and defensive records in the competition, along with the highest completion rate. A remarkable feat when you consider they lost Api Korisau and Villiame Kikau in the offseason. We all waited for a regression. Up stepped Mitch Kenny, Soni Luke, Luke Garner and Zac Hosking. The job done by Ivan Cleary and Matthew Cameron across the last decade has been nothing short of phenomenal. The role played by Ben Harden, Jono Rolfe, Jim Jones, Sam Jones and Lee Hopkins all developing generation next. The system is hard work, intelligence and hands on coaching. Irrespective of the result on the weekend the feat to make a fourth Grand Final in a row cements the Panthers as a modern day dynasty.

The Broncos are on a eerily similar path to the Panthers. Finish with a wooden spoon in 2020, Anthony Seibold resigns despite the fact he blooded and developed a lot of the players who

will run out and play in a Grand Final on Sunday. There was always going to be some pain early, as there was in Ivan Cleary’s early years at the foot of the mountains. Kevin Walters takes the job on the back of a push from several ex players, and the pain continues as the Broncos miss the Finals in 2021 and 2022. Pressure mounted on Kevin Walters late last season on the back of the Broncos late season slide. But on this occasion the Broncos held their nerve and they are reaping the rewards for this in 2023 as this young group matures into a genuine premiership contender.

Who wins the game? Excellent question!

This is one of the most difficult Grand Finals to predict in recent memory. The Panthers are the most disciplined team in the competition. They do not beat themselves. The art of winning is firstly in learning how not to lose. The Panthers have mastered this art. I give the edge to the Panthers with experience on this stage and across the playing roster. They also have the best key position player in the competition: Nathan Cleary. I expect him to collect his second Clive Churchill Medal on Sunday.

The Broncos have a look about them. They pass

Mounties Rugby League Club

- NSW Cup Head Coach

Chifley College Senior Campus

- Rugby League Program Head Coach

the eye test. Their physicality and speed stand out when you watch them play. As does their youthfulness and willingness to play an open style of football. If this game pans out to be open and fast it will suit the Broncos and they can definitely win. If it becomes slow, messy and physical I lean towards the Panthers, they live in that realm. For that reason I am going to pick the Panthers in a close one. I am really hoping for a close game! Enjoy the Grand Final!

It is also with a lot of sadness and gratitude that I inform readers of this column that this will be my final for Nepean News. I have had such a blast writing and having such a great platform across the last 8 years since my first column in 2016. In 2024 I am moving into a full time coaching role with an NRL club and this needs my full focus. Special mentions and thank you’s to my Dad Gary who has sponsored this column, MG who suggested to me one night over a beer that I should write a column and to Kerrie Davies and the whole team at Nepean News for the opportunity to write for the paper. Kerrie is such a beautiful and genuine person and I will be forever in her debt for providing me with such a fantastic opportunity.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY PENRITH PARTY HIRE (02) 4731 1313

BROCK SHEPPERD

Yandamonium

And on and on it goes…

THANKS to the modern marvel that is the internet I recently came across a YouTube clip of a panel discussion between the late rugby league figures of the past, Ron Casey and Frank Hyde.

In typical Casey fashion he was having an argument with Hyde about, of all things, referee mistakes!

Hyde was arguing the treatment of the referees by the media was abhorrent and they were being unfairly criticised for errors of the time, being the late 1970s!

Let that sink in…the 1970s! Nothing it seems has changed in 50 years, although we are a million miles away from those times and have space-age technology, things are going to go wrong. If you are sitting at home watching refereeing “blunders” and screaming at the television, settle down, it’s been happening and will continue to happen and there nothing we as fans can do to change it. This public health message was brought to you by Nepean News.

The struggle is real.

WITH GREG YANDA

AS the Penrith Panthers prepare for a fourth consecutive grand final appearance spare a thought for the anguish of the supporters who have a very difficult decision to make. What jersey do I wear?!

There is an ever-increasing niche subculture of rugby league supporters who are self-proclaimed jersey nerds. Characteristics of this subculture include:

• Buying or selling old NRL/NSWRL/ARL jerseys for up to and more than $500.

• Frothing at the mouth when they see an authentic Alpha Micro choccy soldiers’ jersey in the flesh. You know the ones!

• Stock piling jerseys into categories of Keep it or Sell it, using the latter as leverage to buy the next jersey.

• Sneakily glancing at other blokes who are wearing a jersey you’d been looking for, and thinking about how much you’d offer them but never actually asking the question.

• Having a soft spot for North Sydney Bears, Newtown Jets and South Queensland Crushers jerseys, although you don’t care if they never come back.

And finally, having to pick just one jersey from your collection to wear to the grand final as your team chases a historic three-peat.

If you’re in the same boat I wish you well and to make the burden greater, there will be more to come next year!

And that’s full-time.

We are all cheering the mighty Penrith Panthers onto a glorious Grand Final victory. Go… Panthers!!

Panthers Hunt for Glory: Pursuing Eels Trifecta Triumph of the 80’s

BY MARK “MG” GEYER

THE Penrith Panthers are on the cusp of achieving something truly remarkable – the elusive three-peat. As they aim for a third consecutive premiership win, they find themselves in a position reminiscent of the legendary Parramatta Eels team of 1981, 1982, and 1983. To gain insight into the challenges and opportunities that come with such a remarkable achievement, I spoke with three “Parra greats” Brett “Bert” Kenny, Peter “Wally” Wynn and Peter “Sterlo” Sterling; all three being key to their historic 3peat.

Brett “Bert” Kenny:

MG: What are your fondest memories of the Parra ‘3peat’ of 81,82,83?

BK: I guess my fondest memories of ’81,’82’83 is scoring some tries, there is no better game to score a try in than a Grand Final. Also the reaction from the Parra fans back at the leagues club. It was great to see how happy and proud they were to have their team as Premiers. I must say the amount of fans back at the club in ’82 and ’83 had dropped off a bit, it was almost as if they expected to be Premiers again both those years.. lol

MG: What was your team mantra in 82, then 83, after winning in 81?

BK: The Mantra for the ’82 & ’83 Grand Finals was confidence. We weren’t overly confident but we knew what we were capable of and knew that we could do the job at hand. But didn’t take anything for granted.

MG: Do you see any similarities between your team back then and the Panthers team of the past few seasons?

BK: I can see some similarities between us and today’s Panthers. Their forward pack has plenty of mongrel in them like ours and also the front row lead them forward. They have two workhorse back rowers (we had Peter Wynn & Steve Sharp) and an inspirational lock (Ray Price ours). The backline is similar with quality halves, speed in the centres and wing plus a quality Fullback.

MG: What do you see as Penrith’s biggest hurdle of doing the 3 peat?

BK: The biggest hurdle I see for the Panthers is themselves, they can’t be too complacent and I’m sure Ivan won’t let that happen. They can’t expect things to happen for them; they must make them happen.

MG: What advice would you give to the current Panthers squad?

BK: My advice to the players is to listen to your coach, stick to your game plan and try to remain calm even when things may not go as planned. And remember there is no time to rest in Grand Final.

Peter “Wally” Wynn

MG: What are your fondest memories of the Parra ‘3peat’ of 81,82,83?

PW: The sound in 1983 when the referee blew the full time whistle is a frozen moment in time which was so amazing, so hard to find the right words to describe that feeling of elation. The sense and feeling of achievement, you go off to another planet. Words don’t describe it accurately, the happiness and the smiles on your team mates faces are with you forever.

1981,1982,1983 leaving the SCG and travelling back to Parramatta by bus, to be greeted by masses of fans lining the streets and the hordes outside Parramatta Leagues Club …. then to be taken upstairs to the auditorium and introduced one by one to the fans by Ray Warren is etched deeply in the memory.

MG: What was your team mantra in 82, then 83, after winning in 81?

PW: It’s just another game…”do the simple things right”… go on every play, back up, when you tackle a player put him to the ground which takes him out of the play. Respect the referee but give him no recognition, concentrate on your defence and the attack will look after itself. etc

MG: Do you see any similarities between your team back then and the Panthers team of the past few seasons?

PW: The Panthers team 2019/20/21 have a lot of similarities to our 1981/82/83 team:

-they are very well coached, they are a happy team, they are enthusiastic, very skilful, they play for each other with plenty of confidence, down to earth with no out of control egos.

MG: What do you see as Penrith’s biggest hurdle of doing the 3 peat?

PW: No one has a crystal ball and can predict what will happen in a game as big as this and the Panthers only have to do what they have done all year, which will take them a long way towards beating the Broncos, if there are hiccups in the game, no panic, they need to stay patient and settle back into their routine.

MG: What advice would you give to the current Panthers squad?

PW: Be ready to play, enjoy the game, go on every play, be patient.

Peter “Sterlo” Sterling

MG: What are your fondest memories of the Parra ‘3peat’ of 81,82,83?

PS: Greatest highlight of my career was being a part of Parramatta’s first ever Premiership winning team. Won them since and will win again in the future, but never again for the first time. To then go on and beat an outstanding Manly team full of internationals was tremendously satisfying.

MG: What was your team mantra in 82, then 83, after winning in 81?

PS: To work as hard as possible and prepare the best we could, to be better as individuals and as a team every week.

MG: Do you see any similarities between your team back then and the Panthers team of the past few seasons?

PS: I think both had the right balance to be successful. Experienced players who are great leaders and set high standards. Young exciting players who complemented them. Individual brilliance that could turn a game. Great defensive outfits. Excellent coaching featuring great relationships with the players.

MG: What do you see as Penrith’s biggest hurdle of doing the 3 peat?

PS: The ability of Brisbane to play an exciting, unpredictable style of play. They are not an easy side to defend against.

MG: What advice would you give to the current Panthers squad?

PS: Don’t change anything, just look to do it even better. Have no regrets, come off the field knowing you couldn’t have done any more in your efforts. If that’s the case the scoreboard will take care of itself. Get an early touch, whether it’s a carry or a tackle. Enjoy yourself.

Drawing parallels between his championshipwinning Eels team and the current Panthers squad, there are some striking similarities. Let’s hope that’s an omen of what is to come on Sunday and the Penrith Panthers roar through to a third Grand Final victory!

PENRITH PANTHERS 2023

GRAND FINAL SQUAD

THE MIGHTY PENRITH PANTHERS

PANTHERS PLAYER PROFILES

IVAN CLEARY Coach

IZACK TAGO DYLAN EDWARDS

Height: 183 cm DOB: 10/1/96 Age: 27 Weight: 94kg

Birthplace: Albury, NSW Nickname: Dyl

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 10/7/16

Opposition: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Round: 18

SUNIA TURUVA

Height: 181 cm DOB: 4/9/02 Age: 21 Weight: 88kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Tito Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 3/6/22

Opposition: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Round: 13

Height: 184 cm DOB: 5/4/02 Age: 21 Weight: 93kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Tages Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 29/5/21

Opposition: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Round: 12

JAROME LUAI STEPHEN CRICHTON

Height: 193 cm DOB: 22/9/00 Age: 23 Weight: 99kg

Birthplace: Apia, SAM Nickname: Critta

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 9/8/19

Opposition: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Round: 21

BRIAN TO’O

Height: 182 cm DOB: 18/8/98 Age: 25 Weight: 97kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Bizza Debut Club: Penrith

NATHAN CLEARY (C)

MOSES LEOTA

MITCH KENNY

JAMES FISHER-HARRIS

Height: 187 cm DOB: 5/1/96 Age: 27 Weight: 103kg

Birthplace: Rawene, NZ Nickname: Fish

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 5/3/16

Opposition: Canberra Raiders Round: 1

THE MIGHTY PENRITH PANTHERS

SCOTT SORENSEN

Height: 183 cm DOB: 16/3/93 Age: 30 Weight: 100kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Sorro Debut Club: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Date: 24/8/14

Opposition: Canberra Raiders Round: 24

TYRONE PEACHEY

Height: 183 cm DOB: 8/8/91 Age: 32 Weight: 93kg

Birthplace: Wellington, NSW Nickname: Peach Debut Club: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Date: 19/5/13

Opposition: Canberra Raiders Round: 10

LIAM MARTIN

Height: 183 cm DOB: 5/3/97 Age: 26 Weight: 103kg

Birthplace: Temora, NSW Nickname: Marto

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 30/3/19

Opposition: Melbourne Storm Round: 3

ISAAH YEO (C)

Height: 195 cm DOB: 6/11/94 Age: 28 Weight: 106kg

Birthplace: Dubbo, NSW Nickname: Yo-ee Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 8/3/14

Opposition: Newcastle Knights Round: 1

MATTHEW EISENHUTH

Height: 197 cm DOB: 20/8/92 Age: 31 Weight: 111kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Eiso

Debut Club: Wests Tigers Date: 17/6/17

Opposition: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Round: 15

JACK COGGER

Height: 175 cm DOB: 5/8/97 Age: 26 Weight: 90kg

Birthplace: Greenacre, NSW Nickname: Coggs

Debut Club: Newcastle Knights Date: 15/5/16

Opposition: Cronulla-Sutherland Shark Round: 10

LINDSAY SMITH

Height: 194 cm DOB: 13/1/00 Age: 23 Weight: 106kg

Birthplace: Sydney, NSW Nickname: Larry Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 4/6/21

Opposition: Wests Tigers Round: 13

ZAC HOSKING

Height: 198 cm DOB: 26/2/97 Age: 26 Weight: 97kg

Birthplace: Manly, NSW Nickname: Mule

Debut Club: Brisbane Broncos Date: 10/7/22

Opposition: St. George Illawarra Dragons Round: 17

SPENCER LENIU

Height: 183 cm DOB: 8/9/00 Age: 23 Weight: 110kg

Birthplace: Auckland, NZ Nickname:Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 9/8/19

Opposition: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks Round: 21

LUKE GARNER

Height: 190 cm DOB: 6/9/95 Age: 28 Weight: 94kg

Birthplace: - Nickname:Debut Club: Wests Tigers Date: 15/7/18

Opposition: St. George Illawarra Dragons Round: 18

TOM JENKINS

Height: 188 cm DOB: 16/3/01 Age: 22 Weight: 94kg

Birthplace: Boorowa, NSW Nickname: Milky

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 3/9/22

Opposition: North Qld Cowboys Round: 25

LUKE SOMMERTON

Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 10/8/23

Opposition: Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles Round: 24

‘I’M BUILT DIFFERENT’: Mind over matter the key in Luai’s return

Panthers five-eighth Jarome Luai believes his mindset has played the biggest part in his remarkable return from a shoulder injury ahead of preparing for the club’s fourthstraight grand final.

BY ALICIA NEWTON NRL REPORTER

LUAI got through 60 minutes in the preliminary final victory over the Storm on Friday night less than a month since dislocating his shoulder against the Eels in Round 26.

Every expert in the game has had their say on Luai’s injury, including physios and doctors from rival clubs or sports who believe it was a risk to put the Panthers star on the field in a grand final qualifier.

However, Panthers medical staff were always confident the damage done to Luai’s shoulder could be managed through the finals and while the livewire didn’t look 100 percent, it was enough to cause the Storm headaches.

“Tell the doctors I’m built different brother,” Luai said in response to calls he wouldn’t line up on Friday night.

“I didn’t really listen to the outside noise, there was always going to be a lot of that and I didn’t allow doubts to creep into my mind. I was always confident that I was going to be ready and put the work in.

“The boys would say I’m weird because that night [suffering the injury] I was saying I’d be back in two weeks and I didn’t even know what the damage was.

“They thought I was joking about it but I actually really believed that. I manifested and I think that belief was what got me back tonight.

“I didn’t let [re-injuring] that creep into my mind anyway. The tape restricts it from going out where you don’t want it to go, but in terms of range of movement, I’ve got full range.

“I knew I could get the job done and I got the reps throughout the week and was happy with how it went.”

Luai indicated he did not require a pain-killing injection to take the field as they cause him an upset stomach and may even avoid surgery in the off-season.

The 26-year-old won’t be available for Samoa in the Pacific Championships if he needs to go under the knife next month.

“I’m pretty good with pain and playing with it,” he said.

“Pain is only temporary in my mind and I had the boys’ backing and I’m glad we were able to get the job done and I was able to get an early mark as well.

“I was more proving to myself. I know I seem confident to everyone, but deep down I knew two nights ago that if I couldn’t get through that session and didn’t feel good then I had to drop my ego and put the team first.

“I came through the better side and knew I could get the job done.

“[Ivan] left it in my hands [to make a final call], which is pretty cool from a coach coming into a prelim.”

Meanwhile, Luai indicated he will make a call on his future following the season with the two-time premiership winner coming off contract at the end of 2024 and free to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1.

“It is [on the back burner] and I think it was important to make that call,” he said.

“You don’t come by grand finals and you want to limit every distraction that you can.

“I’m fully focused on what I need to do for this next week and making sure my mind and body’s right.”

PANTHER

PRIDE

PANTHERS TEAMLIST: GRAND FINAL

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has named his squad for Sunday night’s Grand Final against Brisbane Broncos.

BY PANTHERS MEDIA

THERE are no changes to the squad that beat the Storm last Friday night. The Panthers will wear the 2023 alternate kit for the match at Accor Stadium.

1. Dylan EDWARDS - sponsored by Capri Racing & Syndications

2. Sunia TURUVA - sponsored by Protech Locksmiths

3. Izack TAGO - sponsored by Fornari’s Interior Linings

4. Stephen CRICHTON - sponsored by Chardon & Abbott Home Loans

5. Brian TO’O - sponsored by Wisdom Dental & Denture Clinic

6. Jarome LUAI - sponsored by Café at Lewers

7. Nathan CLEARY (c) - sponsored by Granville Plastamasta

8. Moses LEOTA - sponsored by Innov8 Equipment

9. Mitch KENNY - sponsored by CC Tyres Penrith

10. James FISHER-HARRIS - sponsored by Wright Way Plumbing

11. Scott SORENSEN - sponsored by Montana Signs

12. Liam MARTIN - sponsored by You.Me.Brand.Now

13. Isaah YEO (c) - sponsored by Hix Group

14. Jack COGGER - sponsored by Chemtools

15. Lindsay SMITH - sponsored by Hertz

16. Spencer LENIU - sponsored by Potter Automotive

17. Luke GARNER - sponsored by Casella Express

18. Tyrone PEACHEY - sponsored by The

Garner chases history as full circle grand final moment awaits

Luke Garner has only ever experienced grand final day once in his career and it didn’t end well for the edge forward ahead of creating potential history with the Panthers on Sunday.

BY PANTHERS MEDIA

IT was 2015 when Garner came through Manly’s under-20s system alongside Tom Trbojevic and took on Penrith stars Jarome Luai, Moses Leota, James Fisher-Harris and Dylan Edwards in the previous Holden Cup grand final.

Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary missed the match, opting to represent the Australian Schoolboys side overseas but it did not matter with Luai and hooker Soni Luke starring in the decider.

Despite Garner scoring a try in the first half, the Panthers ran away with a 34-18 win - a result he hopes can be replicated eight years later in the decider against the Broncos on Sunday.

“They beat us comprehensively and you could tell a lot of those boys at the Panthers would kick on and play first grade,” Garner told NRL.com.

“It’s pretty cool now, we have a bit of a laugh about it. All those boys who played in the match remember it well.

“The day was a nerve-wracking experience but fun, even though we were on the wrong side of the scoreboard and lost.

“Being able to play in those games at a young age can help you as you get older. These boys around me now have been playing in grand finals for a long time.”

Garner and veteran Tyrone Peachey are on the verge of joining a rare group of players who have gone

from a club that claimed the wooden spoon to winning a premiership in 12 months.

Their departures from Wests Tigers last season set up a reunion with coach Ivan Cleary after playing under the premiership-winning coach previously.

Should either take the field in Cleary’s 17 on Sunday and taste victory, they could become the third player in the modern era behind Brenko Lee (2019-2020) and Harvey Howard (1999-2000) to go from cellar dwellers to premiership winners.

“Ivan’s turned me into a better footy player, along with guys like Ben Gardiner, Peter Wallace and Benny Harden,” Garner said.

“I’m a lot better than when I got here. They’ve instilled a lot of confidence in me and they believe in me.

“It probably hasn’t quite sunk in yet that we’re in the grand final. I’m sure it will with a few of the events we get through this week and the hype around it.

“Something every player wants to achieve is a premiership but the job isn’t done yet. One more game to go and it’s what we play for.”

Sporting Globe

19. Matt EISENHUTH - sponsored by We Love Kitchen

20. Zac HOSKING - sponsored by We Love Kitchen

21. Luke SOMMERTON - sponsored by We Love Kitchen

22. Tom JENKINS - sponsored by We Love Kitchen

Luke Garner in action for Manly against the Panthers in the 2015 grand final.

PANTHER PRIDE

PANTHER PRIDE

ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Celebrate a Panthers win at home rather than in an Emergency Vet hospital

BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR

AS we prepare our get-togethers to celebrate the Panthers in the NRL grand final this weekend, it is important to remember your pets that may be hiding under the table waiting for the food and snacks to drop.

While party food is appropriate for people, that doesn’t automatically mean that it’s also safe for your pets. In fact, when you have a BBQ or picnic, you need to keep a very close eye on what foods are within reach of your dog. Many foods are not only bad for your dog’s digestive system, but they can even be deadly for them to eat.

Here are a few common BBQ and party foods that are dangerous for dogs.

Ribs and other cooked meat bones: Whilst it’s tempting for many people to give cooked bones to dogs, it can have its problems. Cooked chicken bones and rib bones can splinter very easily, becoming lodged in a dog’s throat or digestive tract. Bone fragments can also become lodged in the small intestines, causing a complete intestinal blockage. If bone fragments travel down the gastrointestinal tract and reach the large bowel, they may collect and cause constipation. This is painful for dogs, as the bone fragments scrape the lining of the colon and rectum and lead to significant trauma.

Onions: Onions add flavour and can often be found in many party foods. All members of the onion family including shallots and garlic are toxic to dogs. Although not as bad as grapes or xylitol, avoid giving onions to your dog regardless if they are raw or cooked. Cooking onions doesn’t have an impact on the safety of onions and cooked onions are still poisonous to dogs because of their toxic effect on a dog’s red blood cells. All forms of

onion can be toxic to dogs — whether powdered, dried, fresh or cooked.

Potato Chips and Pretzels: These may seem like simple snack foods, but in reality, pretzels and chips are loaded with sodium, which isn’t good for dogs. Too much of either of these snack foods can upset a dog’s stomach, as well as cause excessive thirst and urination. In severe circumstances, it can result in vomiting, tremors, diarrhea, seizures and fever. Discourage your guests or other partygoers from the temptation of feeding these snacks to dogs.

Chocolate and desserts: Desserts are everyone’s favourite part of the BBQ, but they can be deadly for dogs especially if they involve chocolate. xylitol or alcohol. The compounds in both chocolate and xylitol can be fatal to dogs. The symptoms of chocolate poisoning include seizures, heart arrhythmias, and muscle tremors. Within thirty minutes of ingestion, xylitol will cause a fast, dangerous drop in blood sugar levels accompanied by disorientation and

LEFT OF FIELD

WHO attended the real festival in Penrith? I reckon the whole city was there and their dogs.

The subject matter of the bonehead has really intrigued me for a long time and the study of the human forces is even better. It is like I can buy popcorn at a festival and just watch for hours, and probably pull faces that my face yoga teacher would hate (yes, my beloved readers – there is such a thing as face yoga classes) go figure. People arrive and pull faces for an hour and pay for the privilege- I remember Mum used to say to me – pull a face like that and the wind changes and you will stay like that forever, now it is what all the super models do for an ageless smile. Aliens would see us and say, “keep flying, don’t stop.”

Now please, not everyone is a bonehead, so calm the farm.

I had an amazing time walking for 16 hours, mainly in 35 degree heat on the Sunday and spoke to many people (many people) like lots of people, it was like information overload, a wellness stand. I was happy

to be told that standing in horse dung is also now a thing, you know you are living the dream, standing in horse sh*t ( Just sayn).

All of these new wellness things, like standing in a room and breathing air, I never in my lifetime thought I would pay for oxygen. However I also said that about bottled water; now my dog sips Voss water from a wine glass, the pot plants, and the cat insists on Mount Franklin.

Just imagine.. as kids we would eat dirt, now we drink triple filtered water with a twist of lemon. The planet is in good hands for the future.

My ultimate enjoyment is when the veins are popping out of a mother’s neck, screaming at her darling children, and then proceeding to call it a fun night as she pushes the pram with kids hanging off it, drenched in ice cream and snot and Dad bee-lining for the bar. Now that is when you know you are living the dream. Lost children are always fun - NOT- and its like a duration race for the fittest and quickest, I could comment on this, but I don’t want my house egged.

So I was walking through thousands of people,

seizures. Some dogs can even develop liver failure, which may lead to death.

Fruit salad with grapes: Some fruits are perfectly fine for dogs to eat in moderation, but grapes are not one of them. If you include grapes in fruit salads or desserts, make sure your dog cannot eat them. Grapes cause kidney failure in dogs and can cause lethargy, diarrhea, and vomiting about twelve hours after ingestion. The dog will become increasingly dehydrated, may refuse to eat, and will show either an increase in or decrease in urination. Long-term kidney disease or death follows.

Grand Final celebrations are associated with friends, food and fun. Keep your dog safely locked away this weekend and celebrate the Panthers win at home rather than in an Emergency Vet hospital. For more information, contact the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 4736 2027.

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

bumping into people and shuffling like the Oompa Loompas did in Charlie and Chocolate Factory (I was probably just as orange as well). Food lines were as long as the eye could see and a woman with four dogs was waiting in line for dumplings. After waiting for about forty minutes, someone pushed past her resulting in her losing the entire lot- to the total excitement of her dogs. I would have round kicked someone with an upper cut, but I guess the dogs loved the twenty-eight-dollar dumplings; it’s the sacrifice you make in the name of love and drool. Maybe it was a doggone accident (sorry - Dad joke).

My final fave thing is the family that believe a festival is the traditional rights to set up camp so big that, they have to pay Government land taxes, Mum, Dad, 17 kids, Grandad, Grandma, Aunt and Uncle, tents chairs, tables, kitchen sink, 5 hours of setting up for a 6 hour festival, I am always impressed, so are the 75 people that can’t see the stage or get a seat to watch the entertainment.

So, there you have it, a weekend of fun, and we will all be there next year to do it all over again!

Andy Bromberger to speak on the relationship between music and words

AS part of the Creative Conversations Series, musician Andy Bromberger explores the ways in which music and words have always been entwined in both religious and secular music. Beautiful words are made more poignant by sweeping melodies while text gives music added dimensions.

The relationship between words and music has been treated differently by composers throughout the centuries. From single line vocal melodies where the words were all important, to great operas where the words often take the back seat to beautiful melodies.

Andy Bromberger started her music career with a Bachelor of Music (Performance) at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music majoring in the Clarinet. For 20 years, she taught clarinet, played professionally, and coordinated and conducted school bands.

The Creative Conversations Series presents specialists in music, theatre, poetry, creative writing, screen studies and history who engage with audiences in presentations that profile current projects, questions and investigations into the arts. The talks are free and held in a relaxed after-work setting where specialists can share their research exploring the changing nature of arts and culture in Australia and inspire, challenge and pique the interest of audience members. Sessions are 45 minutes followed by a Q&A with the researcher, where audiences can dig deeper and find out more about the themes and discoveries of the talk.

The Creative Conversations Series is presented by the University of New England Cultural and Creative Arts Network in partnership with The Joan.

The Marriage Between Music and Words is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday 11 October at 11am. Tickets are FREE but booking is essential. www.thejoan.com.au/events/marriage-musicand-words/

Enjoy the NRL Grand Final at Council’s live site at The Mondo

PENRITH is celebrating the success of the Penrith Panthers with Penrith City Council delivering a live site for the 2023 NRL Grand Final.

With the Penrith Panthers on the verge of rewriting the history books with their domination in the NRL era through a fourth grand final appearance - and the chance to be the only team in the NRL to win three successive titles - Penrith Council is encouraging fans to come along to the family-friendly live site at The Mondo.

From 5pm on Sunday 1 October in The Mondo, fans will be able to grab a spot to cheer on the Panthers as they ready themselves for kick off at 7.30pm.

The site has a limited capacity with no reserved seating. The community are encouraged to come early to secure their seat on a first come basis.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Grand Final fever has well and truly gripped Penrith, something the city is now accustomed to at this time of year.

“The whole Penrith community is once again celebrating the Penrith Panthers making the NRL Grand Final – that is now four years in a row,” Cr Carney said.

“Each year the Penrith Panthers re-write the history books, this year is no different as they attempt to become the first NRL team to win three premierships back-to-back.

“I encourage all rugby league fans to come down to Council’s live site at The Mondo to witness what could be a very special moment in sport.

“The family friendly event has everything you need to settle in and watch a great game of football – I can’t wait!”

There will be food trucks, entertainment, and face painting for the kids at the alcohol-free event. A limited number of chairs will be available, but you can bring your camp chairs, picnic blankets and of course your loudest cheers as the Penrith Panthers take on the Brisbane Broncos.

For more details, go to: https://bit.ly/3PSbGVG

SUDOKU: HARD

INSTRUCTIONS

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

CROSSWORD

HUMAN SKELETON & ORGANS

SKELETON: - CARPALS - CLAVICLE - COCCYX - CRANIUM - FEMUR - FIBULA - HUMERUS - INNOMINATE - MANDIBLE - METACARPALS - METATARSALS

ACROSS

- PATELLA

- PHALANGES

- RADIUS - RIBS

- SACRUM - SCAPULA - STERNUM - TARSALS

- TIBIA - ULNA - VERTEBRA

1. Fundamental qualities (8)

5. Acquaint (6)

9. Pharyngeal tonsils (8)

10. Shocked (6)

12. Billow (5)

13. A sedimentary rock (9)

14. Concealed (6)

16. Tallest living quadruped (7)

19. Wild (7)

21. Boldness (6)

23. Unprejudiced (9)

25. Boo-boo (5)

26. Urgent request (6)

27. Liquidate (8)

28. A self-contained weapons platform (6)

29. Not nighttime (8)

ORGANS: - APPENDIX - BLADDER - BRAIN - GALLBLADDER

- GENITALS - HEART - INTESTINES - KIDNEYS

- LIVER - LUNGS - PANCREAS - SKIN - SPLEEN - STOMACH - VOICE BOX

DOWN

1. Pass (6)

2. Type of mint (9)

3. Hangman’s knot (5)

4. An apparition (7)

6. Record-keeper (9)

7. Muse of love poetry (5)

8. Walked unsteadily (8)

11. Urban haze (4)

15. Draw the boundaries (9)

17. Providing money for (9)

18. Exultant (8)

20. Trickle (4)

21. Quandary (7)

22. Compelling immediate action (6)

24. Someone who plays the bagpipe (5)

25. Aquamarine (5)

solution 15/9/23

Suicide at Orchard Hills Tragedy

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

ARTHUR Judges the district coroner held an inquest at the Penrith Court House in July 1923 concerning the death of John “Jack” Jones that took place at Orchard Hills. In evidence Dr Day said that John was a patient of his since Christmas last and he last saw him two months ago. He was suffering from pressure palsy of the peroneal nerve but had improved at his last visit. (Hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies is an inherited condition that causes numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the limbs. It affects the peripheral nerves which connect your brain and spinal cord to your muscles and cells that detect touch, pain and temperature and it can affect anyone). Dr Day said that John told him that he found his work too much for him and appeared to be worried. At the request of the police on the 27th of June he went to John’s residence and found him lying on the floor in a room at the back of the house with his throat cut. He had severed the large blood vessels of his windpipe and in his right hand was a razor grasped tightly, the injury evidently was self-inflicted and it would cause death in a few seconds. John’s death appeared to have taken place two or three hours before he arrived. Another witness Robert Arthur said he was a miner and a prospector but was no longer able to do much and lived at Orchard Hills with his daughter Vera Jones. On the morning of the 27th his daughter came to his room and said to come quick and look at “Jack” and he got up and went into a spare room at the back of the house and saw his son-in-law lying on his back with his face to one side and blood everywhere. He had a large cut in his neck and he felt his pulse and he was sure that he was dead. Robert said that he had never heard “jack” say that he would take his life. He was a good-tempered man but complained of inward troubles. He was very happy in his home life and very fond of his wife and he had heard him say often that the work was a bit too hard for him but he had to do it. Constable Myers of St Marys said that at 9am on the 27th he saw Mrs Jones the wife of the deceased at St Mary’s Police Station where she told him that her husband had cut his throat. He notified the doctor and went out with Mrs Jones to her residence at Orchard Hills where he saw the body of the deceased lying on his back in a pool of blood with a large gash in the throat. A blood-stained razor was tightly grasped in deceased’s right hand and death had evidently taken place two or three hours earlier as the body was quite cold. Sometime later he was present when Dr Day made an examination of the body and he had difficulty taking the razor from his tightly clenched hand. There was no appearance of a struggle having taken place and from the appearance of the body and surroundings the wound undoubtedly was self-inflicted. Vera Jones (nee: Arthur) the wife of John “Jack” Jones said in her evidence that Jack was born in Ballarat and was 52 years of age, (records show he was born in 1876 in Berrima) His parents were Richard and Maria Jones. Vera said that they were

married at Goulburn in 1919 after the war and moved to the Penrith district about three or four years ago (around 1920). She said that her husband had good health until last Christmas but since then he had not been at all well and was under the care of Dr Day and at times during the last few days prior to his death he walked about crying, and a day or two before he said that he wished he was dead. He had a bad leg and said he was not fit for work as it was too hard. On Tuesday night the 26th he went to bed but could not sleep at all and at 7 o’clock next morning got out of bed saying he was going down into the yard. Some little time after she got up and made the discovery of his death. She said that her husband was a man of very temperate habits and they lived very happily together. He was in the first world war during the whole of its duration. His brother allowed him to live on the orchard to help him. A verdict of suicide was recorded. John is buried at Penrith General Cemetery Anglican section at Kingswood in June 1923. Vera posted the following in the Nepean Times:

“In sad but loving memory of my dear husband Jack Jones, late of A.I.F who departed this life at Penrith June 27th, 1923, aged 42. Inserted by his loving wife, Vera Jones and little children, Ada and Margaret”.

I have lost my life’s companion, A life linked with my own, God alone knows how much I miss him. As I walk through life alone.

Sources: Nepean Times, Births, Deaths & Marriages online, Ancestry,

“An Edwardian House Party: 1900-1910“

Sunday 22nd October 2023, 2pm

 Photo of his grave courtesy of “Find a Grave” website

A Cavalcade presentation is a themed talk and includes examples from the collection with commentary. Items are carried amongst the audience, allowing a closer look at pieces from the collection. The Cavalcade of History and Fashion is an organisation with a collection of

Local Triathlete Wins 2023 IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney

TRIATHLETES from across Australia and around the world competed in the 2023 IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Penrith on Sunday, undertaking a 1.9km swim, 90km ride and 21.1km run.

Western Sydney local Leon Sharp (Blacktown) was the first athlete home, crossing the finish line in 3:56:22.

“I was stoked that this is a local race,” said Sharp. “I live 10 minutes from here, so it was easy, sleep in my own bed, race on the streets I train on. It’s good to come away with the win.

“It was just good, my wife and daughter were here, I love that. That was special, because I spent a lot of time away from them training, and it’s good to finally get a performance that’s paying back. I’m very happy.

“It’s just a full circle. This was the first triathlon I did, and it took me almost eight hours to finish. Now, just about half the time, which I’m happy about. But this is the race that I suffered like a dog in, and got me thinking this is great sport, I want to come back and do better than I was three years ago. So to win the race after coming almost dead last is great.”

Katie Remond, from Central Coast, was the fastest female over 113km course, finishing in 4:20:49.

“The swim course was great. It was nice that I could actually see a bit of roping on the bottom of the water, I feel like I was cheating, trying to stay in a straight line. Probably the back end of swim, I’m not the greatest swimmer, so for me, it felt a little bit choppy because I’m in everybody’s wash.

“The bike course, I think the roads were great,” said Remond. “I feel like the roads were beautiful, really good. A few tricky little turns where you

CREATIVE DESIGNS

have to slow down, but other than that, the bike course was great. Then the run, a nice little hill, which I feel like you need to have to break up the crowd of everybody running together. It was nice to come back along the water each time over a bridge to see the whole crowd three times. I like that mentally to have three loops, check in on yourself, see the crowd again.

“It’s so good, everyone coming out on the road was really nice as well, and all the spectators on the running course was just amazing. It brings up your spirits, and makes you run faster and harder,” she said.

IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney is Oceania’s second qualifying event for the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship, to be held in Taupō, New Zealand.

Kathrin Wardlaw made the 800-kilometre drive from Melbourne to take part in IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney, with the goal to secure her slot on the start line in Taupō next year.

For more on IRONMAN 70.3 Western Sydney visit: www.ironman. com/im703-western-sydney

Event results can be accessed here: www.ironman.com/im703-westernsydney-results

Men’s and Women’s winners (photos by Sportograf) and the swim leg (photo by Tim Bardsley-Smith)

Leonay turns pink to support breast cancer research

BY NOEL ROWSELL

OVER 120 starters joined in the annual Leonay Ladies Golf Pink Day at Emu Sports Club last week.

Male and female golf members from local golf clubs provided a sea of pink, in support of charity Breast Cancer Trails of Australia.

Over $5,000 was raised with support from number of local organisations. Special thanks to all those who joined in on the day and the major sponsors included Panthers, Accor

number of individual support donors.

Overall, the winning ladies team came from Blackheath, who collected the majority of prizes, with a Leonay men’s team winning the male section.

“The event again provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of the support of research into Breast Cancer,” said Rhonda Chruszcz, Ladies Captain at Leonay GC.

“Special thanks to all those members of Leonay Ladies Golf and Emu Sports Club.”

Twin Creeks defeat Stonecutters Ridge for W. Gibson Pennant

BY NOEL ROWSELL

TWIN CREEKS GC has won the 2023 W. Gibson (C Grade) Pennant flag, defeating Stonecutters Ridge GC 2.5-0.5 in the competition’s Final, which was held on Sunday afternoon at Beverley Park GC.

Paul Fittler / Trevor Spinks defeated Glenn Day / Eugene Hong 1-up, Michael Bullock / David Oliver defeated Paul Shillcock / Glen Tahimie 2-up and Garry Gunstone / David Leet tied with Daniel Hagerty / Sugan Naidoo.

The full Twin Creeks squad is David Leet, Paul Fittler, Trevor Spinks, Nathan Spinks, David Oliver, Michael Bullock, Garry Gunstone, Murray Nicol, manager Peter Anderson.

The full Stonecutters Ridge squad is Glenn Day, Paul Shillcock, Eugene Hong, Eric Tsui, Glenn Tahimic, Sugan Naidoo, Danny Hagerty, manager Danny Foster.

Gordon GC had earlier won the T.L. Warren (B Grade) Pennant flag, defeating Lakeside Camden GC 2.50.5.

JNJG members finish in top 5 at Victorian Junior Open

BY NOEL ROWSELL

TWO western Sydney juniors competed successfully at the 2023 Victorian Junior Open which was held from the 18th - 21st September at the Barwon Heads Golf Club and 13th Beach Golf Links (Creek and Beach courses).

Camilla Kim (Kellyville / The Australian GC) shot a great 4-under par 69 in Round 1 at Barwon Heads, to sit just 3 shots off the lead, which was held by Ann Jang (New South Wales GC) on 66.

Camilla dropped back in the field following a second-round 78 at 13th Beach (Creek Course), then improved with a 76 at 13th Beach (Ocean Course), before staging a great fightback with a par-72 at the

Creek Course in Round 4 to finish 4th overall in the Girls division on 295, behind outright winner Jang, Rachel Lee (Avondale GC) in 2nd and Olive Spitty (Commonwealth GC) in 3rd.

The U14 Girls division was a fascinating arm wrestle between Camilla and Katie Seol (Royal Adelaide GC), with both girls shooting identical scores over the first 2 days. Camilla subsequently edged ahead by a single shot on each of the final two days to claim the Age Title by a 2-shot margin.

Andrew Kneeves (Castle Hill CC) shot scores of 71, 74, 73,74 = 292 to finish tied 5th outright in the Boys division and was always in the Top Ten over the four days of competition.

Junior Pennant competitions commence in October

BY NOEL ROWSELL

JACK Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) has released the competition draws for two junior Pennant competitions, which feature local golf clubs Penrith, Stonecutters Ridge, Richmond and Lynwood.

Penrith, Stonecutters Ridge and Lynwood will all field teams in the Junior Pennant, whilst Richmond and Lynwood will field teams in Encourage Shield.

Both events are handicapped Matchplay contests, with 6 players per team.

The difference between the two competitions effectively being Encourage Shield is for beginners (teams made up of mostly of B and C Grade players), with Junior Pennant being for more experienced golfers,

with teams made up of mostly A and B Graders.

The full squads for each club are: Stonecutters Ridge GC: Zayne Meinke, Annoushka Maikap, Cooper

Ison, Savannah Webb, Ayoush Verma, Marie Claire Domingo, Jack Gillett, Sean Sammons, managers Allan Ison, Raymond Costello and Ryan Cadle. Richmond GC: Emma Norman,

Ewan Hanson, Lincoln McGown, Roger Rojjanchaigapong, Brock O’Connor, Evie Oram, Harry Oram, Darby Weber, Corey Hughes, manager Tim Oram.

Penrith GC: Riley Cleminson, Brent Gadd, Jessica Fog, Zavier Button, Kyle Armstrong, Ryder Jerzyna, Joshua Bourke, managers Michael Organ and Blade Gadd.

Lynwood Encourage Shield: Linde Cadelina, Jasper Lee, Jamie Mcinnes, Anika Tabanag, Zoe Miller, Luke Miller, Jake Franklin, Hongming Colo, managers Troy Mcinnes and Tony Miller.

Lynwood Junior Pennant : Kolby Thurgood, Cohen Allueme, Jordan Ball, Mitch Carruthers, Ozaya Algie, Zachary Isaako, Angus Kusto, Matt Nathan, manager Wayne Ball.

Pullmans Hotel, Drummond Golf, Bunnings, Officeworks and a

The victorious Twin Creeks team with the W. Gibson Pennant.

Photo supplied by Golf NSW

Action at Leonay Ladies Golf Pink Charity Day. Photos supplied

Camilla Kim.

Photo courtesy of Kass Rogan (Golf NSW)

Ryder Jerzyna, Zavier Button (Penrith)

Jasper Rentoy signs with Sydney Kings

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Sydney Kings have completed their NBL24 roster by signing former St Dominic’s College student and Penrith Basketball Association Junior representative Jasper Rentoy as a development player.

Following a polished and successful junior career with the Panthers, 23-year-old Jasper most recently played with the Eastern Mavericks in NBL1 Central, where he averaged 12.33 points per game, at 35.49%, led the team with an impressive 7.72 assists per game, and also averaged 4.06 rebounds and 1.7 steals in the 2023 season.

His career stats in the NBL1 are equally impressive, averaging 11.62 points per game at 40.14%, 5.59 assists, 3.49 rebounds and 1.03 steals.

“Signing as a development player with the Sydney Kings is an absolute dream come true,” Jasper said.

“Growing up, I went to all the Kings games and camps, so now being a part of them now, it’s definitely come full circle.

“I’ve always had goals to make it to the NBL, but never would I have thought that I’d get the honour to wear the purple and gold and represent my home.

“Born and raised in the Mt Druitt / Blacktown districts in Western Sydney, I know it truly means a lot to them, my family and the Filipino community.

“I am very thankful to the Sydney Kings for this opportunity, words can’t explain how much it means to me.”

The point guard, who started his hoops journey with the Penrith Panthers and played with the Association’s representative and club teams between 2006-2021, believes the harbour city club is the best place for him at this stage of his career.

“At this stage of my career, there is no better place to be than a part of the Kings organisation,” said Jasper, who believes he can bring many attributes

to the club including passing ability, quickness, work ethic and energy.

“They’ve (Kings) been the benchmark of the NBL these last couple of seasons in all aspects and getting a chance to learn from the best, there’s not much more I can ask for.

“I’m really looking forward to learning from guys like Shaun Bruce and Jayden Adams, as they are elite point guards at this level. Being mentored by them will only help in my growth as a basketball player.

“I am also very excited to learn from coach Mahmoud [Valentine] and Denzel Valentine, being from the NBA, they have a wealth of knowledge I hope to obtain from them.

“I definitely feel extremely lucky to have the opportunity to learn from the entire team and coaching staff, they have been great so far and I think it’s definitely going to be a fun year.

“I can’t wait to continue to work, give my all and do whatever it takes to win, in front of our amazing supporters at Qudos Bank Arena.”

Assistant coach Daniel Kickert is excited about what Jasper can bring to his outfit this season.

“We saw a commitment to being the best player he could possibly be, day in and day out, and a desire to help make everyone else around him a better player,” Kickert said.

“Jasper brings a high level of professionalism to his approach to the game and a willingness and eagerness to learn from his teammates.

“With all these things being considered, I know he can have a positive impact on our club.”

The Kimgs competed in the annual NBL Blitz over 16th-22nd September, facing the South-East Melbourne Phoenix (93-86 loss), Melbourne United (105-87 loss) and Brisbane Bullets (105-76 loss).

The regular season commences with an away game to the Illawarra Hawks on Saturday night (Sept 30), with the first home game at 4pm on Sunday 8th October against the Adelaide 36’ers.

Sharp performances at All Schools Championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

“ALL Schools at SOPAC (Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre) - what an opener,” said Sam Sharp, mother of Para athlete Layla Sharp. “Gold in the 200m and a PB (personal best), couldn’t be more proud of her dogged determination to succeed and whats more, no coach, on her own and in sprints in which she simply has no formal training. A sub 30, “29.23”, another PB from “29.95” only 2 weeks ago.

“The 100m was amazing, purely because it’s a race that she (Layla) hasn’t done any training for in the lead-up, and she was stoked to not only get the sub 15sec but also to do a PB in a major championship and walk away with Gold.

“Well, the closeout of All Schools didn’t disappoint. 800m, Gold, PB and the Australian record. She (Layla) is 3 seconds off the World Record for her classification and the 4-second PB was phenomenal. The results highlight how close her times came to the world record set in her classification. We’re now off to Perth in December for those 3 events (100m, 200m and 800m) at the National All-Schools, which are being held from 8th-10th December, hoping now with her training to drive the times even further down.”

Layla Sharp in her 200m Gold Medal winning run. Photos supplied

Jasper training and playing with the Sydney Kings. Photos courtesy of Kris Saad

Jasper Rentoy as a 15-year old with the Penrith Panthers.

Photo by Noel Rowsell

Australia strike gold at Canoe Slalom World Championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

JESSICA Fox OAM has won her tenth individual Canoe Slalom World title, winning Gold in the Women’s K1 at the Lee Valley Whitewater Centre in London on Saturday night (Australian time), following a bronze medal in the C1W on Friday.

Australia collectively finished with four gold medals from two events, with Jess having partnered with sister Noemie and Tasmanian Kate Eckhardt earlier in the week to record an historic win for Australia in the Women’s Kayak Team’s event.

The K1 win was Jess’ 10th individual World title, and fourth K1 World Championships gold, last winning the Kayak crown back in 2018. This year’s success was a flashback to 2012, where she won the K1W Silver medal in her Olympic debut – also on the London course.

The K1 win was not without drama, with Jess recording the fastest semi final time by over a second on Saturday morning, then receiving a two-second penalty for touching Gate 1 in the 10-paddler Final. However, her incredible run saw the four-time Olympic medallist still secure the gold medal, ahead of Eliska Mintalova (Slovakia) in second, and Klaudia Kwolinska (Poland) third.

“My goodness, it was a crazy race and I just can’t believe I’ve won today, it’s amazing, I am overwhelmed and so emotional,” Jess said.

“I didn’t start well, I hit Gate 1 and just tried to really put the hammer down and keep it clean and keep it tidy. Even to the last gate, I was taking risks and trying to squeeze out time, just sprinting head down to the finish, not knowing if it would be enough, but to see I was one second ahead, I was thrilled.

“To win a fourth K1 World title and my 10th individual World title, I feel really proud of that.

“This World Championships was really important to get the quota to go to the Olympics and it was also part of our selection process as well. Obviously, the work’s not done yet, but to have qualified the quota and ticked off a few boxes for the criteria, I can start to plan towards Paris.”

Along with her World Championships bronze medal, Jessica secured an Olympic quota place for Australia in the Women’s C1 for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, as one of the top 12 nations in the event.

As with her Kayak run, Jessica’s C1W run was the quickest raw time of the 10-paddler final, however a gate touch at the top of the course added a two second penalty to her time, which saw her finish with the bronze medal, just 0.89 seconds behind Great Britain’s pairing of Mallory Franklin with Gold and Kimberley Woods with Silver.

“It’s been a pretty crazy World Championship so far,” Jess said after the C1W. “I didn’t have the best start in the C1 but making that final and getting the Olympic quota spot was the goal, and to come away with a medal is awesome.

Australian Women’s Eight claim double gold in Shanghai

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE 2023 Head of Shanghai River Regatta is a 2-day event which takes place on the Suzhou Creek in Shanghai.

Approximately 700 athletes took part in this year’s competition, comprising 51 teams for 8-person rowing, 10 x quadruple scull teams and 14 x single scull athletes.

The Regatta was divided into several competitions, including colleges, clubs, youth and elite.

The Australian Women’s Rowing Team made its debut at the Regatta, taking out the Elite Women’s 500-metre Sprint and the 4.2km Chase on consecutive days..

“I am a bit frustrated with my touch, which kept me off the top step, but it’s still great to come away with another medal.”

The 29-year-old said she felt “quite emotional” securing the quota for her fourth Olympic Games.

“It’s been a big build up and obviously it’s never easy to get a quota and it was super tight racing this morning, so to get that out of the way I was really relieved.”

Returning to the course of her Olympic debut at the Lee Valley Whitewater Centre just out of London, the NSWIS athlete said the finals course gave her flashbacks to winning silver as an 18-year-old in 2012.

“It’s funny because that bottom move, the down left to the up right, was exactly the same at the Olympics, so I kind of had a flashback to London 2012, but it’s always great to come back to London, I love this course,” she said.

“The weather has been challenging but it’s a beautiful day today, so it’s been a pleasure to race and the crowd is awesome. I have some family here cheering me on and cheering the Aussies on, so the support has been amazing and it’s been great to race again.”

Fellow Australian Tim Anderson also put the slalom world on notice in the Men’s K1, finishing in 5th place in his first World Championships Final and securing Australia a start in the Men’s K1 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Anderson qualified 5th-fastest from 101 starters in the K1 heats on Thursday, placed 6th in the semifinals, and had a near faultless run to finish in fifth place; his best ever K1 international result.

Anderson said he was thrilled with his individual race and to have secured Australia a quota for next year’s Olympics.

“It’s awesome, I can’t believe I am standing here having just placed fifth in the final, it’s an amazing achievement, I am just stoked,” Anderson said.

“The quality today was incredible. After I did a really good run, everyone else after me was also really good. So it’s nice to know I did a good run, but everyone was really on it today.

“It’s pretty huge [to secure the quota], we always pride ourselves on being at every Olympics and competing hard, so it’s nice to know Australia will be there again come Paris next year,” he said.

The Bund, Shanghai.

Photo by Noel Rowsell

Action from the 2023 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in London. Photos courtesy of Kim Jones / Paddle Australia