Nepeannews 2april2015

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ISSUE 146

HAPPY EASTER FROM THE NEPEAN NEWS TEAM!

BIG WIN FOR PRUE’S CREW Prue Car and her team celebrate winning the Londonderry seat in the state election after a mammoth campaign. Photo: Thomas Carey

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AFTER the success of the inaugural IRONNMAN 70.3 Western Sydney event last November, organisers have confirmed the event will return to Penrith in 2015.

The main race will be held in and directly around the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) on Sunday 29 November. The course, which includes the iconic Penrith Lakes and boasts spectacular views of the mountains, was praised by participants last year.

Marketing Manager for IRONMAN Courtney Akrigg said the unique location was a key factor in their decision to return to Penrith.

“Many athletes spoke of the electric atmosphere at the SIRC and how it buoyed their spirits throughout the race, “Courtney said.

“The winner of the women’s event, Anja Beranek, said while she was on the course she could see the Olympic rings and this made the competing in Penrith even more special.”

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said he is looking forward to welcoming the event back to Penrith.

“It’s wonderful to see IRONMAN returning in 2015. Last year this event attracted nearly two thousand competitors to our city and injected more than $500,000 into our local economy,” Cr Fowler said.

“This year is likely to attract even more registrations, as Penrith is the final opportunity for athletes to qualify for the World IRONMAN event in Germany in 2016,” “This is great news for local businesses

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

IRONMAN returns

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The IRONKIDS event will also return in 2015. This event is for children aged between 7-13 years and will be held at the SIRC on Saturday 28 November.

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From the Editor’s Desk 203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Sales Manager: Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Advertising Representative: Sergio Carrasco 0413 461 017 Journalist: Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Journalist: Garion Thain 0430 424 101 Graphic Design: Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Printer: Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown Letters to the Editor: nepeannews@aol.com Web: www.nepeannews.com.au

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by Kerrie Davies AT LAAAAAST, I assume most would say (or sing to the strains of the Ella Fitzgerald classic) the state election is finally over.

The Coalition, with good sort and all-round nice bloke Mike Baird as captain, have been returned pretty convincingly for another four year term.

Locally, the seats in our region went to the candidates that most of us predicted - Liberal Stuart Ayres returned in Penrith, Liberal Tanya Davies returned in Mulgoa and new member Labor’s Prue Car elected in Londonderry.

Stuart Ayres claimed victory fairly early on election night, an endorsement of his popularity in our community considering he had just about everyone else on the ballot paper teaming up to try to force his demise. It was a gallant effort by a hardworking and professional candidate who had runs on the board as our local member and government Minister.

Tanya Davies managed to pull off the unthinkable with a slight swing towards her on the first preference votes counted so far, and just a 1.8% swing against on the two party preferred count. The state-wide swing was on towards Labor so to poll so well was not an easy feat. Voters have shown they have confidence in Mrs Davies’ ability to deliver big ticket items - such as the relocation of the methadone clinic which had been a political football for many former politicians. A betting person might put a wager on Mrs Davies being rewarded with a promotion by Mr Premier.

The candidate who could possibly take out the title of the longest campaigner in local political history, Prue Car proved that hard yakka and perseverance does pay off - claiming victory for the Labor party in Londonderry. Ms Car has spent virtually every waking hour over an incredibly long period of time campaigning to earn a spot in the house of reps. If her campaign stamina is any indication, she’ll be a tireless member for the Londonderry electorate.

Well done to the winners and commiserations to those who missed out.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

Check www.nepeannews.com.au for complete list of distribution outlets

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A part of

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THE children, families and educators of Harold Wheen Preschool at St Clair recognise the positive impact living in a multicultural society has.

“It is a day which educators prepare various activities that help the children and families understand how diverse Australia is. Harmony Day is a wonderful opportunity for children to recognise that Australia is a very special place

to live,” said Director Angielina David.

Families were encouraged to stick with the theme, “Recipes for Harmony” and share some delicious meals which are important to the children’s home and background.

The families definitely delivered!

The children were able to explore foods from around the world, made with love from their mums and dads.

Some families taught the children words and phrases in their home language to enlighten their educators.

“Parents and grandparents shared their talents with the children too, with one activity being a dance exercise and listening to Sophie P and her grandmother showcase their skills on the violin,” Ms David said.

“When embracing a sense of belonging, children feel safe, secure and nurtured. That is exactly how the children and families feel at Harold Wheen Preschool.”

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Tanya Davies Member for Mulgoa

“Thank you to the people of Mulgoa, for re-electing me as your State representative in the NSW Parliament. I will continue to work hard for the interests of everyone in our community” Phone (02) 9833 2913 Email mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Address Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys Mail PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Happy harmony

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Amelia is tripping the light fantastic

By Greg Martin

SHE’S neat, petite and has dancing feet!

Those who like a cup of char or coffee and a bite to eat in Windsor and have made their way to the Bridge Café, will undoubtedly have been served by the vivacious Amelia Heath.

The 21-year-old from Londonderry always has a ready smile and hearty “good morning/afternoon” to say to patrons – and she never gets an order wrong.

As well as that, Amelia is one of the Bridge’s expert baristas – no, she doesn’t wear a wig in a courtroom but works her magic on the coffee machine.

(I think I may have over explained that!).

But there’s much more to this local lassie than being a highly competent and personable waitress.

Amelia has worked at the Bridge Café for three years, waitressing on weekends and during holiday periods - she is in the fourth and final year of Bachelor of Primary Education studies at Sydney University.

Again with the “but, wait, there’s more!”

Yes, one of the reasons Amelia is so deft on her feet, skipping between tables and gliding to and from the kitchen at the Bridge Café, is because she gets a lot – a real lot – of practice shifting those dainty tootsies.

You see, Amelia is a ballroom dancing champion!

And a very much in-form ballroom dancing champion.

She and her long-time dancing partner, 22-year-

Tripping the light! Amelia Heath and Nathan Connor wowing the judges at the Marconi Club.

old Nathan Connor, competed against many of the best performed pairs in the country in a prestigious Australian National Dance Association competition at the Marconi Club late last month and danced their way to victory.

Amelia and Nathan have been dancing together

for the past four years and after establishing themselves as an outstanding combination in the juniors, have quickly progressed through the various open-age levels to the elite open category.

In fact, their appearance at the Marconi Club was their first ever time on the dance floor as an open pairing.

Amelia and Nathan had to perform five dances – the waltz, fox-trot, quick-step, tango and Viennese Waltz and scored highly in all dances to comfortably accumulate the highest point-score across the competition.

“It was just so exciting competing against such talented dancers and to win, well, it was just amazing,” Amelia said.

Amelia describes being out on the dance floor as “euphoric”.

“I just love putting on those amazing dresses and dancing with Nathan and performing on front of the judges,” she said.

“When I am out there I feel such exhilaration – I just drink it all in and revel in the moment.”

Amelia says she and Nathan, who is completing a Master’s degree in teaching at the University of Western Sydney, will move to London next year to further their dancing education.

“We will be seeking to find teaching jobs to pay our way and learn under what are regarded as the best dance mentors in the world,” Amelia said.

Amelia and Nathan are currently preparing for the Australian Championships to be held in Canberra in June. But still with enough time to keep those tootsies moving at the Bridge Café!

Its borderline baldsville for the Hill girls

By Kerrie Davies

IN February we ran a story on our front page on the Hill girls, Gillian and Aimee who had decided to brave it and shave in honour of the ordeal their father Jim had been through, and to raise funds for brain cancer.

The initial goal was to raise $2,000 but support for the girls saw that milestone surpassed, and now they’ve raised more than double what they set out to.

And the hair is now gone, but as you can see from the pictures, it has not taken away even a speck of beauty that this mother and daughter have, both inside and out!

The family’s ordeal began when they moved from Penrith to Western Australia a few years ago - it was to be a new start - warm weather, new surroundings and the dream home they’d worked all the lives for.

But when husband and father Jim suffered a seizure one day at work, the dream came crumbling down - he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

He was operated on within a couple of days, followed by radiation and chemotherapy and when the diagnosis was labeled terminal, the

family decided to return to be with their friends and family in Penrith.

“It was an extremely frightening time,” said Jim’s wife of 31 years, Gillian.

“It was like blow after blow - every time we spoke to a doctor it was worse than we’d previously thought.

“I admit I did feel a sense of ‘this happens to other people, surely not us’ - we’d never had any cancer in the family before and had no idea how to

deal with it.”

Jim was diagnosed with a grade three frontal lobe malignant tumour and has been given varying life expectancy terms from different doctors, ranging from between five and ten or so years.

Brain cancer has a very high mortality rate, and survival rates have hardly changed for 30 years, despite significant increases in survival for Australians diagnosed with other types of cancer, such as leukaemia and

breast cancer. Treatment is challenging because it affects our most vital organ.

Brain cancer costs more per patient than any other cancer, yet only receives a small fraction of cancer research funding.

Brain cancer kills more children than any other disease in Australia. It also kills more people aged under 40 in Australia than any other cancer. Yet very little is known about brain cancer, its causes or how to treat it.

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Autism awareness through animation

By Kerrie Davies

COINCIDING with Autism Awareness Day, Glenmore Park public school played host to the Luke Priddis Foundation (LPF) fundraiser and the launch of Marvelous Max - an animation designed to be presented to primary school children in years 1-6.

The Marvelous Max program is about awareness raising and supporting and nurturing students, parents and families who are living with ASD children.

A little man who was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder at age three began kindergarten last year in a mainstream primary school. This is where the inspiration for the video came about. Whilst he mostly fits in well within the classroom there are major things that stand out to his peers: - He has a teacher’s aide - He gets to leave the room a lot and goes for walks - He has special areas set up in the classroom for him to use when he needs - He becomes very loud at times and disruptive - He is very rigid with his thinking.

He tends to only talk about what he is

interested in.

“It is extremely important for kids to understand why he and other children may get special attention or accommodations in class,” said Tamara Van Antwerpen from the LPF. “I also think it’s important for kids to understand that these behaviours in class are not always by choice. We believe if we start educating children and building more tolerance and understanding within schools, that’s where we will see change!”

The beauty of animation is that it focuses on the positives and how everyone has something to contribute.

One message brings 1000 balls!

A random facebook message from local mum Zoe Lumsden to the Luke Priddis Foundation in hope of obtaining a few stress balls has resulted in over 1000 balls being received once Chat Bandaranayake from head office of Storage King spotted the message!

Chat from Storage King put in a few calls which resulted in a massive effort; Storage King stores all over the nation were calling in and contributing balls for the cause.

Here’s Zoe’s original facebook message: “Hoping LPF can find assistance within Facebook community: I am looking for any types of stress

balls that companies no longer need for marketing purposes for our son and his peers as part of a stress less-squeeze tight strategy ... we don’t mind what type of stress ball shape they are. .. just

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F A S H I O N S

Welcoming the babies WANTED: Anyone under 18 months who “goos”, “whahs”, “boos” or “giggles”. Mums, dads, nannas and pops, we want to see you with your youngsters at Westfield Penrith on Saturday, April 11.

You see, Fiona Scott MP, Member for Lindsay in conjunction with Westfield Penrith will officially welcome our newest members of the community at a very special “Welcoming the Babies” ceremony in Centre Court.

Fiona Scott said the event was an opportunity for parents and guardians to celebrate the birth of their child while connecting with essential services.

“Lindsay is one of the youngest electorates in the country, meaning we have many young families living within our community,” she said.

“The event provides the chance to say thank you to new parents for a job well done and it’s also the chance to formally welcome our newest members of the community.”

Westfield Penrith Centre manager Paul Stonebridge encouraged parents and guardians to register their little ones now to ensure they didn’t miss out.

“Westfield Penrith loves the opportunity to welcome new members into our community and the Welcoming the Babies event is an exciting way to connect with young families in the local area,” Mr Stonebridge said.

“There will be lots for families to see and do before and after the ceremony, with face painting, children’s entertainment and treats for the kids.”

Every baby up to 18 months who registers will receive a certificate of welcome and a gift bag.

Plus, there will be fun activities for the older siblings.

Welcoming the Babies will take place in Centre

Court, Westfield Penrith, at 11am.

If you would like to register your baby or toddler for a certificate, please email Fiona.Scott.MP@aph. gov.au or phone 4731 3700.

Registrations close Wednesday, April 8, at 5pm.

9 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Climbing Kilimanjaro for Autism

By Greg Martin

DIANA Wolf has a mountain to climb – one of the most famous in the world – Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Diana is a co-owner of the speech pathology practice Nepean Speech and Language Services which treats the whole range of speech and language disorders in both children and adults.

She is also a very proud board member of The Luke Priddis Foundation, the local charity which helps runs programs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and support networks for their parents.

On July7, Diana will start an 8-day trek to climb to the top of post-card famous Mt Kilimanjaro which is known to be one of the most difficult treks of its type in the world.

And trek it will be, as the summit sits at 5800 metres above the plains below.

“On the day that we reach the summit, we will be required to start walking at midnight, the round trip to the summit and back will take between 12 to 15 hours,” Diana said.

“Temperatures could get as cold as minus 23 degrees!”

Diana says working with children with Autism is her passion.

“I have been working with children with ASD for the past 20 years, and at this point in time they make up over 50% of my caseload.

“I have shared my enthusiasm of working with children with Autism with my staff, and can proudly

Porters lead the way to the summit of Kilimanjaro

Diana Wolf has put plenty of training into preparing herself for the arduous trek up Mt Kilimanjaro. She’s pictured here on a training trek throughout the Snowy Mountains last October.

say that our service is very highly qualified to provide very effective treatment for these children.

April is Autism Awareness month, and today (April 2,) is International Autism Awareness Day. “I have decided to make my trek worthwhile, by using it to raise money for the Luke Priddis Foundation,” Diana said.

“The foundation provides essential services for children and parents of children with ASD, such as social skills groups, Lego club, playgroups, community forums and seminars, ASD awareness events and parent support groups.

“The funds raised from my trek will be used to run communication programs, as this is an area that most children with Autism require intensive assistance.

“Wish me luck on the trek!”

And that we will Diana, that we will!

You can donate to Diana’s mission by visiting https://give.everydayhero.com/au/diana-16

Wollemi College Speaks Up

By Garion Thain

WOLLEMI College, a school of less than 300 students, has had a very successful year at the Catholic Schools Debating Association public speaking competition, Australia’s largest secondary school public speaking competition.

Year 10 student Nathan Bartolo came second in his age group at the competition featuring over 650 students from 65 different schools.

Anthony Pincivic, a year 8 student, also placed third in his age bracket.

Simon Hoffman, a runner up – finished first in year 7 last year.

Staff Philip McKenzie and Brett Wright, director of studies credit their students’ success on hard work and a prosperous learning environment.

Speaking to the students also showcased school pride and contentment with the teachers in particular.

“The teachers are great and really friendly - especially the public speaking team,” said Nathan.

“It’s great to be able to express our views.”

Wollemi students Anthony Pincivic, Simon Hoffman and Nathan Bartolo.

Photo: Thomas Carey

The college is an independent boy’s college for years 3-12 in Werrington founded by the Parents for Education Foundation, and started operating in 2004. The college takes pride in the close relationships families and staff often have.

“There’s a great family atmosphere,” the students told me.

Interestingly, despite having students from years 3-12 there are less than 300 pupils, Mr McKenzie says this lends to a closer community and allows students to flourish academically.

The small number of pupils also allows for the college to partake in personal and one on one tutoring. Each student in the college is issued a tutor or mentor from the teaching staff, who meets with students throughout the term and their parents at least once each term.

This year’s success lends to the college’s public speaking pedigree.

The Catholic Schools Debating Association public speaking competition is held annually.

Schools all over Sydney and the Nepean area attend it each year.

11 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

The results are in!

Labor retakes Londonderry

By Garion Thain

THE state election has passed us by and as the dust settles, it shows Mike Baird has confidently won another four years for the coalition government. Labor campaigned state wide to claim new seats, many of which were lost in the 2011 election, and one of the seats they reclaimed over the weekend was Londonderry, which candidate Prue Car won after a lengthy campaign.

Having visited the election night Londonderry and Mulgoa-Penrith events Labor held on Saturday and conducting an interview with Ms Car, I can say the tones at both events were different as you may expect, although despite everything the general consensus seems to be that Labor is happy to have improved its opposition in the state.

With this the Mulgoa-Penrith event was a little bittersweet as the candidates didn’t claim victory, although the volunteers were happy with the work they and the candidates conducted and spirits at the event still seemed good.

The Londonderry event however was a full-on celebration, with Prue Car and her team rapt by the result of their campaign. After joining together near the stage for some photos Ms Car, almost having lost her voice from the events of the day, spoke to me about the result in Londonderry.

“So today it’s been an overwhelming result in Londonderry, a 13% swing to Labor is an amazing result for Labor in this election,” she started with.

“I think it’s clear from the result that we got in Londonderry today, that the people of our community have rejected Mike Baird and the Liberal’s plans to sell our electricity assets from underneath us – and they have voted me to deliver on the commitments that I made during the election campaign.

Prue Car reclaimed Londonderry last weekend for Labor after a lengthy campaign, although her counterparts in Mulgoa and Penrith were not as successful.

“So my job is to now hold Mike Baird and the Liberals to account on the commitments that I have been elected to deliver,” she continued.

“I intend to be a strong voice for the western suburbs in the state parliament starting from now and I will be holding Mike Baird to those commitments starting tomorrow.”

Ms Car’s campaign was backed by a team of volunteers dubbed the “Prue Crew,” all of whom were present at the evening and had campaigned for her many months before the election date. Ms Car thanked the support of the volunteers whilst speaking to me.

STATE ELECTORAL DISTRICT OF LONDONDERRY | Vote Summary

“There’s no way that anyone can door knock 20, 000 homes and make 35, 000 calls to residents in the community without the great team behind them,” she said.

“My campaign team has consisted of supporters, people we’ve met in the community during our campaigning and people who have come on board to help us win the election for myself and Labor.

“They have done an amazing amount of work, all voluntary, over 499 days.

“This is also their victory,” she finished with.

Ms Car was present at St Marys station on Monday morning “thanking [commuters] for their support in the election.”

Ms Car now has a lot on her plate.

As a new member in an opposition role she has the next four years to prove to the voters of Londonderry that she can live up to the expectations she has spent quite a long time campaigning for, and to be the “strong voice for the western suburbs” she has promised to be. Time will tell, but all eyes are on her as her neighbouring seats of Mulgoa and Penrith are still in the hands of the coalition government.

STATE ELECTORAL DISTRICT OF MULGOA | Vote Summary

NSW State Election 2015 Stuart Ayres and Tanya Davies returned

Stuart Ayres with his Campaign Manager Michael Creed and young helper Alex

By Kerrie Davies

THE mood at Stuart Ayres’ after party at Penrith Panthers was nothing short of electrifying when I arrived there about 8.30pm on Saturday night.

The excitement was building into a crescendo because the booth scrutineers were beginning to arrive with the magic news in their hands - the polling numbers for Mr Ayres were telling a story of victory.

The big screen at the club was also flashing up great news for the Liberals, not just for Penrith but also Tanya Davies in Mulgoa and the Baird government in general. The Liberal’s Bernard Bratusa was not successful in the Londonderry seat.

When Mr Ayres arrived at the party the cheers and applause were deafening.

Standing with his partner Senator Marise Payne before a room packed with people in blue t-shirts, the relief from winning a hard-fought campaign was etched on both their faces.

“I’m incredibly humbled to get the support of the Penrith community for another four years,” Mr Ayres said.

“We are a hard working community, we promised we’d work hard and the voters have endorsed Mike Baird’s plan for NSW and my plan for Penrith.”

Mr Ayres won the seat convincingly considering former Liberal Jackie Kelly was running for the seat as an independent and risked splitting the conservative vote. Ms Kelly further raised eyebrows with her decision to preference the Labor candidate.

In the end the preferences didn’t matter as Mr Ayres received enough of the vote that the preferences never

came into play.

At the Wallacia Hotel another victory party was in full-swing for Tanya Davies. The vote for Mrs Davies resulted in one of the smaller swings against the Liberals in the state.

A clearly delighted Mrs Davies was thankful for the voter’s endorsement.

“Since being elected into the NSW State Parliament in 2011, it has been my absolute privilege and honour to represent and serve the people of Mulgoa,” Mrs Davies said.

“The people of Mulgoa decided last weekend to offer me the opportunity to continue in my role as their elected representative in

STATE ELECTORAL DISTRICT OF PENRITH | Vote Summary

NSW 2015 Live Results

the NSW Parliament – re-electing me for a second consecutive term in Parliament.

“I feel deeply honoured and humbled to represent our community a second time and once again be part of the Baird Liberal Government putting NSW back to work at rebuilding this great State of ours. Under the Baird Liberal Government we have a strong, clear plan to Rebuild NSW. “I look forward to continuing to build on what I have achieved for my community in the last four years for the next four years, and developing even stronger links with my community to best represent their concerns in Government.”

13 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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Best Penrith festival ever

By Kerrie Davies

WHAT a fantastic festival it was in Penrith this year!

Full of fun and flair, this year’s festival was by far the best ever - with loads of stalls, great smelling food, plenty of entertainment and rides for the kids and a parade that had everyone cheering from the sidelines.

The inclusion of the official opening of Poppy Park added a special touch this year, with loads of people flocking to see the breathtaking display of poppies.

CEO of Penrith CBD Corporation said the sponsors mentioned in

the advertisement below are to be commended for getting behind one of the best social events on our local calendar.

“Also, the schools participation, the local businesses and the amount of people that got behind the parade

and worked so hard to get the theme respectful. The tribute to ANZAC and Australia was amazing,” Gai said.

“Also a special thank you to PAWS, the Wizard of Oz was amazing!”

But there’s an unsung hero who we rarely get an opportunity to thank for all the work she puts in to make this great city so fabulous. So three massive cheers for Gai Hawthorn (and her team) from the Penrith CBD Corporation who worked around the clock (literally) to ensure the festival’s success.

You are one in a million Gai and Penrith is incredibly lucky to have you!

15 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

OWEN and Martin Rogers are the type of blokes you would want in the trenches with you, affixing bayonets before storming over the top.

The brothers are the driving force behind the thought-provoking Poppy Park in Penrith which has captured the

hearts and minds of people all over the nation as well as internationally.

As you are aware, dear readers, the brothers, family members and around 700 volunteers have planted 102,804 red poppies in Penrith’s Judges Park – that is the exact number of Australian servicemen and women who have given their lives serving this country.

There is also a lovely purple rose which commemorates the loss of life

Premier Mike Baird congratulates Owen and Martin Rogers on their initiative in creating Poppy Park.

of the many thousands of animals – horse, dogs, donkeys and pigeons – which also fell on battlefields from the Sudan campaign in 1885 through to the most recent battlefield in Afghanistan.

“Even though we remember and commemorate collectively the battles fought, as families fade and generations pass, the individuals who gave their lives during these battles may no longer have anyone to specifically remember them and the sacrifice they made,” said big brother Owen, 51.

“It is the vision of Remember a Soldier that each of our fallen heroes be remembered personally each year, by at least one family in Australia.”

Each of the poppies, made up of a long green stem, fabric red petals and a black centre piece will have the name of a fallen sailor, solider or airman or woman who fell in battle.

Single poppies are being sold for $17.90 including postage and family of four poppies for $39.95 again including postage.

All proceeds from the sale of the poppies and the gold coin donation of those who visit the park and take a ride 11 metres up on the viewing platform

will be split 50/50 between Legacy and the Penrith RSL sub-branch.

Poppy Park opened on March 21 and closes on April 29.

“At the conclusion of Poppy Park, the poppies, with the names of our fallen heroes will be collected, packed into commemorative boxes and sent to the people and organisations across Australia that purchased them, to keep as their own little memento of their contribution to Poppy Park.” Owen said.

“Then come Remembrance Day in November, each person will have a poppy and the name of a fallen hero to personally remember.

“Names are being randomly assigned, as it’s important that all soldiers, sailors and airmen and women are remembered.

“If people were to choose their own name then those who have no one left to remember them, may go unassigned.

“There is then the added benefit that it creates a new connection with someone you may have never known, yet we all owe so much.”

So far around 15,000 poppies have been sold but Martin and Owen expect numbers to surge as Anzac

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OWEN & MARTIN ROGERS our idea of a Poppy Park with them and they kindly offered us the use of Judges Park for five weeks.

One of the students from the Rogers’ old alma mater, Connor Jurkovic, designed the Poppy Park.

So who are Owen and Martin Rogers?

The Rogers clan – dad, a navy man, mum, and nine children, moved into Penrith in 1974 and all the siblings attended either St Dominic’s College or Caroline Chisholm College.

Owen is married to Natalie and they have five children and four grandchildren while Martin and his wife, Lyndal, have two adult children.

The brothers operated Mul-TLock in Penrith from 2000 until selling the business in May, last year.

Owen now splits his time between a home at Cranebrook and a hobby farm at Oberon and Martin lives at Lapstone.

Martin, who has university degrees in both science and business, mentors businessmen and women in aiding them to improve their skills.

Both he and Owen are heavily involved in visiting schools to talk with Year 10 and 11 pupils about the transition from school to work.

Day approaches.

“We want to find a home for all of the fallen,” 40-year-old Martin added.

You can purchase your poppy by visiting the park which is open 9am8pm daily or visiting poppypark. org.au and following the simple instructions.

The catalyst for the idea of Poppy Park occurred last November when Owen and Martin discovered that their great-great uncles, Herbert and Claude Page, had died on the battlefield in World War I. “Both men survived Gallipoli before being posted to the Western Front where they lost their lives,” Owen explained.

“So we just boarded a plane and flew over there to visit their gravesites.”

Herbert’s grave is in VillersBrettoneux and Claude’s at Ieper (Ypres) in Belgium.

“It got us thinking about how many other fallen have been forgotten and that we should do something about it,” Owen said.

And the Poppy Park idea was born.

“We approached Penrith City Council in December and discussed

17

The view of Poppy Park from the 11 metre-high viewing platform.

Owen is a long-time board member of the Nepean Area Disability Organisation (NADO) and chairman of the Penrith CBD Corporation.

What’s that old saying? If you want something done, give it to a busy

man or woman.

The Rogers brothers are always busy – and but never too busy to put their efforts into something else.

For that, we should all be thankful.

Lest we forget!

Owen and Martin Rogers were nominated as Legends of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.

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

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

THE G SPOT

I HAVE often wondered whether sticking my head in an oven and turning on the gas or riding a horse bare back with razor blades super glued to the saddle is more fun than standing in a queue at the bank. But, you can even supersize that by sitting on one of the colour coded plush lounges and waiting for ya hubby standing in the bank queue, which equals grumble bum and a painful wait. (Yippee) Now you may say to yourself “What has this got to do with anything?” but alas folks it does, because whilst I am sitting there contemplating my navel, it gives me a chance to do what I do best and that is… observe and do me some bonehead spotting.( I’m excited) I would have to say that I could count on my fingers and maybe throw a few toes, the amount of people (retailers) that deliver the cash to the bank.

The next thing that I find really really intelligent is that fact that they

are still wearing the company logo on their shirts, which is like a capital Doh with bonehead thrown in.. Seriously.

I think an announcement over the PA is better…. (Bing, Bing, Bing) Excuse me shoppers, just announcing that the numb-skull shop is now delivering over 10K to the bank, they are wearing the company shirt, please wait outside and do them over! Thank you and also we have 30% off men’s underwear as a red light special.

You see, if I can see it (and I am no rocket scientist) I hate to tell you, so can the baddies.

I think the most entertaining part was the Kid (barely born) that was carrying the calico bag and facebooking at the same time (Multiskilled , I’m truly impressed).

Okay this is the serious part so I am typing with a serious look on my face, when it comes to the transportation of cash (Pointing index finger), you should have systems in

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

place, risk assessments, staff hold up training, change of routine, change of route, change your clothes, change your people, try and implement ways to limit the amount of cash you take.

(See told you I had security training) Because if one of your people get held up and injured, can I tell you, you wanna hope you have all of this type of stuff documented and really good coffee at your office, because the lovely people at Work Cover are gonna become your best friend for a while. (A little like saying a needle ain’t gonna hurt you).

The next phone call you’re probably gonna make is to the really nice people at your insurance company, just so you can get the money back that was stolen. Of course they will say in a happy voice “Oh didn’t you read the fine print in minus 17 non bold font, your money is only covered whilst in your store, but have a nice day and we are truly sorry that

you’re screwed”.

Now, I can guarantee by this time you have probably round-kicked every shelf in your office and eating stress tablets like Tim Tams.

Roully good idea to see if your cash is insured whilst in transportation (out of the store) and roully good idea to have documented systems in place for your money in transit.

The next best thing is to get a licensed security provider to carry your cash you. (Hint Hint)…. (Only ones that have that type of cover, training and insurance of course).

Okay well there you have it, I am still sitting here on the lounge (Tick), hubby has moved up two spots and has mouthed a few choice ( Naughty words) in bold about the bank (Tick) more retailers have walked in with cash to bank (Tick) Work cover truly are nice people..cough cough (Tick) and I have had my daily fix of bonehead spotting for the day (Tick).

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The kids are going to LOVE shopping!

Cr Bernard Bratusa kids around and tries it out!

Inset pic is what the photo looks like.

AT a time of year traditionally linked to hot cross buns, chocolate and Easter egg hunts it’s challenging to find new ways to celebrate Easter with children.

For the very first time, St Marys Village is excited to introduce Hoppy the Easter Bunny. Hoppy is a digitally animated, augmented reality, lifesized Easter Bunny, brought to life via a free smart phone app. Grocery shopping this Easter will be an interactive experience as Hoppy delights children and hops out of the floor, spins, wiggles, laughs and twitches his tail.

There’s fun for all ages as the app also enables shoppers to take a range of Easter themed selfie photos to share with friends and family on Facebook.

“We’re excited to bring the tradition of Easter into the digital age and provide our shoppers and their kids with an interactive experience not available anywhere else in our local area,” said Lisa McLaughlin, Marketing Manager, St Marys Village.

“Hoppy has been created just for our shoppers and their families, using exciting technology which is easily available on their phones.

We’re turning shopping into a gaming experience!”

Hop into St Marys Village from 24 March to 10 April to meet Hoppy the Easter Bunny.

The app can be downloaded for free on iTunes or Google Play at hoppyeaster.com.au.

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Chocolate is toxic to your pet

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at Nepean 24 phone 1300wellpet

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Nita

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

WellPet Vets would like to bring you this very important message about your pets health as we approach the Easter holidays; Chocolate is a poison for cats and dogs! The Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service, in the last few days has already had two confirmed cases of Chocolate Toxicity.

Easter is full of delicious tempting sweet food. Although for us chocolate is a nice treat, for cats and dogs chocolate can be very dangerous.

Chocolate contains both of the chemicals; caffeine and theobromine.

Both of these chemicals are safe in humans at the doses we eat and drink, but toxic to dogs and cats.

All chocolate contains both of these chemicals, but they are much stronger in darker chocolate, especially the 70% 80% cocoa varieties.

This toxin in pets effects their hearts, liver and brain. There is no antidote and the effects can accumulate over time. Therefore it’s very important to never give your pet chocolate no matter how small the amount, at anytime.

Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhoea, and hyper-activity, this can then lead to tremors, seizures, racing heart rate, and even death.

If your pet does eats chocolate, your vet can help. You will need to provide your vet with the approximate time the chocolate was eaten, your pets weight and the approximate weight of the chocolate eaten. Your vet will use a formula to ascertain the level of toxicity your pet has been subject too.

Your vet will then recommend a treatment plan for your pet based on the above information.In some cases, if they have eaten it within the last 2

hours then your vet will administer a medication to make them vomit the chocolate back up. Your vet will then prescribe a course of absorbing agents to bind what chocolate has already been partially digested.

If your pet has eaten chocolate more than two hours prior, and/or if they are showing symptoms, then treatment can be a lot more intensive.

More severe toxicity treatment may include hospitalisation and fluid therapy, binding agents and other supportive medications accompanied by a high level of supportive care.

To avoid any unexpected trips to the vet this Easter, be sure to keep chocolate safely away from your pets.

Don’t feed it to them. Don’t let them take it and if you have any worries that they have got hold of chocolate call your vet immediately.

WellPet Vets would like to wish all of you and your pets a very happy and safe Easter. Remember to have handy the number for the Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service – 1300WELLPET (1300 9355738) or (02) 47333456. This service is operated out of Nepean Animal Hospital, 50 Mulgoa Rd, Regentville and has staff onsite 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

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collagen and elastin fibers and replenishes the natural support layers lost with aging while delivering essential nutrients and hydration.

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They went from St Marys to WW1

By Tony Fryer

ALL primary and secondary schools in the area once known as St Marys Council District are participating in a major research project initiated by St Marys RSL Sub-Branch. Each school is researching ‘allocated’ local volunteers who joined the Australian Navy and Army to fight in World War 1. While not accounting for all who went from St Marys, the research project will provide details on 162 of those volunteers. A special feature representing each volunteer and prepared by the school students, will become the focus point for the St Marys RSL Sub-Branch’s Centenary of ANZAC Service on Sunday 19th April in Victoria Park, St Marys.

In the lead-up to this Service, we are publishing

samples of the research output that students are presenting.

The project is designed to improve awareness by local students of their forebears who went to war 100 years ago to ‘do their duty’ for their country.

If you would like information on the upcoming Centenary of Anzac Service and march on 19th April at Victoria Park, and the ANZAC Dawn Service on Saturday 25th April at the guns memorial adjacent to St Marys RSL Sub-Branch, go to the SubBranch’s website (http://www.vvaastmarys.com.au/ stmarysrsl_sub-branch/commemorative_services. asp) or contact the Honorary Secretary, Tony Fryer (0414 557 692). Also see us on facebook.

Samuel Ashley Service # 11901 Date of Birth 23rd April 1887, born in England Parents Thomas and Louisa Ashley Address Roper Street, Colyton, NSW Occupation Tiler Enlistment Details Samuel Ashley enlisted on the 5th September 1915 at the age of 28. He joined the 9th Field Ambulance.

Service History Samuel Ashley embarked on the “Benalla” on the 1/5/1916 for England.

He served in France as an Ambulance driver arriving in France on 23/11/1916.

Samuel was admitted to hospital on the following dates while in France.

3/12/1917 - hospital sick 19/12/1917 - hospital sick 20/1/1918 - hospital sick Samuel was transferred to #2 Group Hurdcott Hospital in England on 22/1/1918.

Discharged Returned to Australia on the “Eurpiedes” on 3/3/1919 and was discharged on the 10/6/1919.

Post Service Samuel married Amy Eliza Curtis on the 1/12/1919.

They had 7 children.

Samuel was the tiler for the original Grace Bros building in Sydney.

Samuel Ashley died on the 24/7/1954.

Sample from Blackwell Public School, St Clair

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Massive Boost for Ladies Golf Tour dates are as follows: Pro Am Event: Thursday 16th April Round 1: Friday 17th April Round 2: Saturday 18th April Final Round: Sunday 19th April The prestigious Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club has been selected as the host venue for the 2015 China LPGA Tour – Australia Classic, to be held between 17th - 19th April 2015 The Australian Ladies Professional Golf (ALPG) in conjunction with the China Ladies Professional Golf Association (CLPGA) are excited to announce the first Australian Women’s Professional Golf Tournament to be held in Western Sydney.

This event marks the first time that the China LPGA Tour has held a tournament outside of mainland China.

This tournament, co-sanctioned by the China LPGA and the Australian LPG will see the top 26 players from the China Tour and the top 26 players from the Australian Tour invited to compete for a share of the $150,000 in prize money.

Karen Lunn, Executive Director of the ALPG is thrilled to announce this new tournament and the association with the China LPGA. Jennifer Lee, Executive Director of the China LPGA believes this tournament will strengthen the relationship between the Australian

and China Golf Tours, a relationship that will help foster the development of Ladies Professional Golf in both countries.

The tour players selected to compete in the inaugural event will be announced over the coming weeks.

Grant Martin, General Manager of Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club is very pleased that the club has been selected as the host venue for such a milestone event.

‘We look forward to working with the China and Australian Ladies Professional Golf Tours to develop

this event into one of Australia’s major Ladies Golf Tournaments’.

‘This is an exciting opportunity to showcase Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club on the global golfing stage, and place the spotlight on our world class facilities’ said Grant Martin.

This event will be open to the public and is free to attend. It is expected to attract visitors from across Sydney and also China.

For further information regarding the tournament please contact Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club on (02) 9670 8888.

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Easter Joy Jesus came to earth, To show us how to live, How to put others first, How to love and how to give.

Then He set about His work, That God sent Him to do; He took our punishment on Himself; He made us clean and new.

He could have saved Himself, Calling angels from above, But He chose to pay our price for sin; He paid it out of love.

Our Lord died on Good Friday, But the cross did not destroy His resurrection on Easter morn That fills our hearts with joy.

Now we know our earthly death, Like His, is just a rest.

We’ll be forever with Him In heaven, where life is best.

So we live our lives for Jesus, Think of Him in all we do.

Thank you Savior; Thank you Lord.

Help us love like you!

By Joanna Fuchs

Something for everyone ON Saturday, May 2, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden will be transformed as lovers of local food, wine and crafts enjoy regional produce, spectacular views and vivid autumn colours at TomahROMA autumn food and wine fair.

This year’s fair will also stage the International Back To Back Wool Challenge and the Apple Pie BakeOff: Watch the team shear a sheep, spin the wool and knit a jumper in under eight hours!

And you can enjoy an incredible selection of locally made apple pies entered into the hotly contested bakeoff!

Donations are directed to cancer research.

This year the garden is hosting producers from the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury regions focusing on sustainable living and locally grown produce.

Fresh juice and cider, wine, crafts, cakes, clothes, coffee and Botanic Garden plant sales: just a small taste of the variety of lovingly made regional produce you will be able to sample and buy.

Discover the many horticultural delights within the 252 hectare

Vegging out! Showing off the vegetables which will be on display and sale at TomahROMA.

grounds on a free guided tour departing regularly from the Visitor Centre.

Run by volunteer guides, the tours will focus on the seasonal autumn highlights of the Garden.

The fair will be set against the bright autumnal colours of the turning garden, which in itself attracts thousands of visitors throughout autumn.

This is the best time to see the

Garden in its annual blaze of colour, which is a sight not to be missed.

TomahROMA has built a strong following with food and garden lovers alike and is now in its 12th year!

Don’t forget the date – Saturday, May 2.

TomahROMA will be open between 8am - 4pm and cost of admission is a gold coin donation which goes to cancer research.

Secret debate

Will Tony Abbott remain as Prime Minister?

He Says........................... .........................She Says CONGRATULATIONS to Mike Baird and Luke Foley for keeping the state campaign about politics rather than personalities. A refreshing change for voters.

With the next big election up for decision in 12-18 months it will be interesting to see if our federal pollies have learnt anything from NSW. Baird’s big advantage was his “hard to hate” persona. PM Abbott does not carry that luxury.

Everyone has had their say on Abbott from the “He must go” brigade to the “I voted for him as PM don’t change my vote.”

Mr Abbott’s performance has been abysmal. If your sporting side promised the world at the start of the season and half way through there were no wins on the board you would be having second thoughts about the team and who was leading them around the paddock. Lucky he isn’t the Australian cricket captain.

Statements such as “good

WIN!

government starts today” make me wonder what the hell has been going on for the last 18 months.

The “I will change” message is a furphy too as shown by the attitude since making the statement.

Leopards don’t change their spots.

Let’s face it, he faced a challenge from NOBODY and “NOBODY” got 40% of the vote, hardly a ringing endorsement.

Mind you this is better than the polls which show 75% disapproval.

He’s probably safe as long as there’s nobody with the ticker to stand up and be counted. But some sage advice to those in marginal seats, don’t buy a house in Canberra just yet.

The heart of the matter is that Australians deserve better; some vision and genuine investment in the future. Abbott is not delivering.

Baird’s personality helped him enormously last Saturday, I don’t think Abbott can rely on that bonus.

I’VE just got one thing to ask those who are in the “let’s bag out Tony” brigade – is your memory that short-term that you have seriously forgotten what the clowns we had in before him were like?

So Tony has done some things that have raised a few eyebrows – like asking people to pay a few bucks when they see a doctor, knighted the odd British prince and winked when listening to a rather mature aged phone-sex worker.

But on a scale of catastrophic decisions for our country to things that don’t really matter, where do you honestly in your heart-of-hearts rate these things?

Nobody lost their lives or even had them impacted when you be really honest about it, instead of running with the mock-horror scenario.

Having a lack of border protection that encourages

people to set sail from Indonesia with their children on board a vessel made of nothing stronger than match sticks on wild seas is something worthy of your horror.

A wink at the thought of people receiving sexy calls from a pensioner is not.

I say let’s stop with the “nobody in politics can be fallible in any way” ideals we seem to have these days and give the PM a bloody fair go.

The MPs need to stop thinking of their own marginal seats and be part of the team they signed up to.

From the time he took the top job he’s been bashed and rubbished at every turn. If we do that to every PM we’ll never have one with the gonads to make the hard decisions, and the cycle of pleasing the people to the detriment of the country and its best interests will continue.

Who do you agree with? Send your vote to nepeannews@aol.com for a chance to win a table for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant including dinner and show.

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Easy Easter bonnet IF your child loves craft and hats, then this Easter hat parade hat idea is for you. The Easiest Easter bonnet is what we call the ‘everything but the kitchen sink’ Easter hat. You simply get the kids to decorate the underside of a paper plate with as much Easter stuff as they can find.

Then strap it to your child’s head with a ribbon chinstrap. Oh happy days! Easter hat parade sorted.

You will need: 1 x quality paper plate with some depth (e.g Chinet brand) 50 - 100cm of ribbon glue paint 1 x FREE Decorate your Easter hat printable sparkly stuff fake Easter eggs real Easter eggs Easter chickens Easter grass (available at craft shops, or you could use shredded crepe paper instead) flowers (fake or real) How to assemble your paper plate Easter bonnet Start by painting the paper plate a bright colour, then place all the crafty decorative bits in front of your child with some glue and scissors and let them create their own masterpiece on the underside of the plate.

When they’ve finished ‘crafting’, attach a length of ribbon to either side of the plate, and put it on the child’s head. Tie the chin-strap in a bow underneath to keep it in place.

Fancy a tea party anyone?

MAKE sure you circle Saturday 18th April at 11.30am on your calendar as you have been summoned by the Queen of Hearts to attend something very special from local group, Ruby Productions.

Come along and have some lunch and be amused by both the games played and songs sung at their Madhatter Tea Party.

A lot of fun is sure to be had with characters Alice, Madhatter, White Rabbit and the Red Queen of Hearts who are looking forward to dining with you on this special one off occasion.

There is limited seating, so be quick to book to save disappointment.

The ticket price is $30 (which includes meal, games and entertainment).and bookings can be made by visiting www.trybooking. com/118262 There are no reservations as this is a catered event.

Slip down the rabbit hole for the “MADHATTERS TEA PARTY” which will be performed at John Lees Centre, 15 Evan Street; Penrith. www.rubyproductions.com.au

INVITATION

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2015 Music for Life Black and White, Dress to Impress Ball At the Panthers Pavilion, Mulgoa Road Penrith Featuring: Tim Gilbert from The TODAY show and Wide World of Sport as our MC 3 course meal Entertainment by The Diamonds backed by the Players Tickets from $140 per person or $1200 for a table of 10

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The Belle’s makeover

WE live in a region of great beauty; the river, the valleys and the Blue Mountains backdrop - and what better way to see the sights than on board our own fairest Belle, the Nepean Belle!

The grand vessel has been an icon of our region for decades and has been touted as the must-see tourist attraction on many tour websites. And now the Belle has come out of the water and is having a makeover - yes the stunning lady is about to exceed every expectation with a makeover.

“The boat has to come out of the water once every two years for its annual survey,” Owner Chris Bennett said.

“The survey is the Maritime’s term for a registration check - a once over.

They want to do it out of the water so they can check all the hulls and all the different compartments. Once they give us the okay we anti-foul it.

“But while its out we want to take the opportunity to give it a birthday on the lower half. We want to restore the boat over the next twelve months.

The timber around the windows, the roof and the gutters are all about to be replaced and repainted.

“We’ll use modern-day paints.

Auto West paints have been giving us advice and they’ve been fantastic,” Chris said.

“They’ve just been terrific, we couldn’t have done it without them.

James has really held our hand, this

is only the second time that we have done it.

Chris said he and his wife Carol are going to do a couple of experiments this time around.

“Instead of using the anti-foul on the bottom we are actually going to use a 2 pak, which is a much harder paint. I’m really looking forward to the experiment.”

The idea is to make the Nepean Belle look like it did in 1982.

“It looked so fresh then, Carol and I would really like to see it restored to its former glory,” Chris said.

The Nepean Belle can be hired out for functions, birthday parties and weddings as well as lunch and dinner cruises.

An exciting new addition is the Discovery Cruise. It will be a five hour cruise incorporating morning tea and lunch, going as far up the river as the boat will go - until it is too shallow.

“Basically we will be retracing the steps of the old tour operators,” Chris said. “Between 1900 and the 1950’s, guys used to take the boat nearly to Warragamba. We had a trial run in November and it well really well.

“It will be five hours and includes commentary, it’s pretty exciting and we kick that off in May.” If you’d like to sample the beauty of the Nepean River on board our own fairest belle, call 4733 1274.

Help a child in need FOR just $2 you can make a difference to a child who has suffered sexual abuse by purchasing a wristband during the month of April.

The Queen of Hearts Community Foundation support survivors of child sexual abuse and April is the National Child Abuse Prevention month.

“We are trying to raise awareness through purchasing a wrist band that supports survivors, which are $2 each or 3 for $5 and will be selling them from our premises at the ‘Old Council Chambers’ 133 Henry street, Penrith, every day in April,” said CEO Michele Ellery.

“One in four children will be sexually assaulted by someone they know and trust before their 18th Birthday. One Heart, one mind and as one community we can come together to make a difference in the life of a child.”

25 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

ENTERTAINMENT

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Business expo BLUE MOUNTAINS Regional Business Chamber will be joining forces with Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce and Women with Altitude to bring you an even bigger and better expo than previous years.

It will be held at the brand new Springwood Theatre and Community Hub, Macquarie Rd, Springwood on May 13 from 11am - 4pm.

There is a huge space available for exhibitors and once again there will be an early bird special discount for those who book and pay before March 31. $360 (inc gst) for members and $460 (inc gst) for non-members - early bird discounted price is $310 (inc gst) and $410 (inc gst).

Sponsors for this event are the Blue Mountains Business Enterprise Centre and Bartons Real estate.

MAKE YOUR BOOKING BY TUESDAY, 31 MARCH 2015 TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT, SAVING $50!!

Phone 4782 5307

T E R T A I N M E N T

Blues Brothers Revue

By Garion Thain

THE Blues Brothers Revue, officially sanctioned by Dan Akroyd and wife of the late John Belushi, Judith Belushi Pisano, is coming back to Australia for the first time in years for a May tour, where they’ll be playing in Rooty Hill.

Kieron Lafferty who plays Elwood in the production spoke to Nepean News about his last visit, the Revue and the upcoming show at the Rooty Hill RSL. “We visited Sydney around threefour years ago, Rooty hill included, and we had a blast!” Mr Lafferty said.

“Sydney is a great cosmopolitan town, and even more diverse culturally.

The people are very hospitable.”

The Blues Brothers show they’ll be playing has existed in some form since 2004 where it started in Chicago.

Lafferty says the show has morphed since then into the show it is today, with much support from Akroyd and Belushi Pisano, and Paul Schafer who’s the show’s music director.

“They wanted to put their stamp on it - Dan always has great advice.”

Lafferty and Wayne Catania, who plays Jake, both first knew the characters from the Saturday Night Live era and the current show’s origins

Wayne Catania who plays Jake, and Kieron Lafferty, who plays Elwood have been performing the show since 2004.

draw inspiration heavily from that era.

“The show is based around the original Jake & Elwood from Saturday Night Live,” Mr Lafferty said.

“It’s dedicated to their live performances.”

Fans of the Blues Brothers movie won’t be disappointed either with the whole show being very faithful to the characters overall.

“We love the music and the comedy

performance. They’ve been fried up and woven together really well.”

On what Australian fans can expect from the show, Mr Lafferty told us “The show isn’t a musical in the way ‘Mama Mia’ is a musical, it’s more of a live show.”

The Blues Brothers revue will be playing at the Rooty Hill RSL Club on Saturday May 9. To book, phone (02) 9625 5500.

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Heavens Above

They have their eye on you

with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Good Manners Cost Nothing I can’t remember when I became aware that an information form required me give my “First Name” first!

I can remember most of my life being asked to provide my “Christian” name first. Subtly though that requirement was replaced.

How many other sublties have come about without consultation? I can remember when it was not only good manners but even exhilarating, to honour great people who had shared their teachings and history with us.

Those who bothered to share their physical lives with us. People such a Jesus, Allah, Buddha, Quan Yin, Mary, Abraham, Moses,Krysna,Srimad Bhagavatam Ra and soooo many more earth angels amongst us now!

Has it all been to our advantage and benefit, this errosion of goodness?

Or was the word once referred to as “Godness”.

Has this gradual diminishing of good manners and goodness, generally become the reason for there being so much anger and crime?

Have we lost the power be be able to celebrate things that are good and people who are good?

People not caring about others, hurting others physically and spiritually are the losers - not only do they hurt others, but they are doing even greater damage to themselves!

We must be aware that we are always responsible for our actions - no excuses. No copping out, good or bad we wear it.

That is still the reality dear wonderful friends - life is great!

Let’s remind ourselves and others always - Good Manners Cost Nothing!

Cheers !

Your Mate, Rossco

Nashos meeting Penrith National Servicemen meet at Penrith RSL on the 3rd Sunday of each month.

Morning tea commences at 10.30am and all services are welcome Publicity Officer Colin 0400 129 006.

Art Blocks for Tots Join staff at the Penrith Gallery to find inspiration in the exhibitions and help tots to discover their inner artist.

This session includes a fun and hands on art activity in the studio.

Friday 24 April 10-11am $12 per child, suggested age 3-5 years. Adults don’t pay but must stay.

Art Valuation Day Do you own artwork and want to know its value?

Specialists from Menzies Auction House will be available at Penrith Gallery for an obligation-free appraisal with a view to selling at auction.

No appointment necessary.

Sunday 26 April 10am-2pm

FORMED in 2006 ‘Eye on You’ has evolved to become one of Australia’s finest hard rock acts. Writing for Album ‘Scream’ began back in early 2007 and was recorded at East St studios Sydney in September 2008, a second CD “Quick Look” was recorded at Cloud Studios on the Central Coast in 2012. Each CD is better than the last!

Currently they are recording a new CD and video.

Drawing many influences, the sound of ‘Eye on You’ can only be described as; high energy hard rock, drawing on influences Led Zepplin, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Metallica, AC/DC, Lynard Skynard, George Thoroughgood, Rolling Stones, Beatles, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Rage Against The Machine to name a few. Eye on You’s sound has evolved into a collage of hard rock with a unique edge all of its own.

If a nuclear blast leveled Australia tomorrow, it’s likely that along with cockroaches, pub rock may be the only living thing to survive. Such is the appeal across generations X, Y and beyond that pub rock continues

to deliver when others genres have wilted and died. And wearing the pub rock survivor tag proudly are the experienced locals who make up “Eye On You”.

Boasting an extensive and varied rock pedigree, the boys came together nine years ago and have been gigging up and down the coast ever since. Their high energy riff driven rock echoes influences from Gunners, Fooies, Led Zepplin, Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, however they refuse to sit still.

Since recording their popular debut CD “Scream” at East Street Studio seven years ago, they continue to evolve.

Next time you notice the plates vibrating off the shelf, it’s not an earthquake. It means “Eye On You” have landed at your local pub and are delivering the goods like only they can. Get into it. EYE ON YOU are Daryl Granger (vocals) Alan Iskandar (lead guitar) Trevor Yates (bass) Glen Baker (drums).

Eye on you will be playing at the Colyton Hotel on Saturday 11th April (start time is 8.30pm and entry is free).

Battle of the Bands

By Garion Thain

THE lucky Australian Tavern will be putting on a battle of the bands this Easter long weekend in what they say will become a monthly tradition.

The event will take place over two nights, with the Saturday heats and the Sunday finals both starting at 6pm.

Local musicians from the area are invited to join in the competition with a first place prize of $500 as well as a paid gig.

Runner up prizes are also very generous, with second place also getting rewarded with a paid gig and third getting a support gig.

The event has been put on by Kye Brown Entertainment who will be reintroducing live bands to the Lucky Australian after two years. The competition is set to become a monthly affair with battles of the bands set to take place in the last week of each month at the Tavern’s stage in the outdoor area accompanying the bistro.

The lucky Australian has seen a shift in focus with its new owners being very community based, according to Mr Brown. Weekly events are becoming a mainstay at the Tavern where poker,

trivia, Friday night karaoke, Saturday afternoon kids karaoke and “Sunday Fundays” have become weekly events.

The hotel also has a new popular bistro with new facilities accommodating a hot and cold bar as well as “cook your own steak” bistro

feature.

Entering the battle of the bands can be done through Kye Brown Entertainment. To enter an upcoming Battle of the Bands at the Lucky Australian phone 0410 688 643 or 0413 938 264.

The Lucky Australian stage will be seeing multiple battle of the bands events in upcoming months. Photo: Thomas Carey

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E N localnews

T E R T A I N M E N T

Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Damien Leith Touring

SUDOKU: EASY

30

By Garion Thain

SOLUTION: 19th March

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

DAMIEN Leith is no stranger to most of us, capturing the nation’s hearts after his 2006 Australian Idol victory and the platinum records, awards and novels that followed. Now he’s taking his one man cabaret play, “The Parting Glass: An Irish Journey” on the road and back to Penrith after his sell out performance at the Joan, to support his 8th album “Songs from Ireland.”

Damien spoke to us about the play and his upcoming performance at Panthers this June.

“The play is set in Ireland about a father and son who haven’t seen each other in five years,” Mr Leith said.

“There was a preview show at the Joan not long ago – full house, it was brilliant!”

The musical play, which takes place in an Irish pub, sees Damien take on the role of both the father and son as they get to the bottom of a deep secret that has haunted them both. It’s filled with humour and emotion and features a live band playing songs from the new album, recently released.

“It’s a real to life story,” he said.

“The Dad has a lot of opinions and a massive heart.

“There’s things he wants to find out about his son, a lot of emotion comes from that guy.”

AVAIL

Mr Leith says playing the two characters is interesting and the positive reception from audiences and critics alike made him want to take the story onto the road.

“The play’s definitely funny at times but there’s a lot of emotion, sometimes I’d look out into the audience and there’s tears in someone’s eyes,” Mr Leith said.

“Audiences want something different.

“This is for anyone who loves Irish music and a great night out.”

Damien Leith will be performing at Panthers on June 19. Tickets are on sale now.

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WIN A HOLDEN CRUZE & CASH PRIZES! OVER $20,000 IN PRIZES TO BE WON! 3 easy ways to enter: • Join The Bandy between the 1st Feb – 30th April and receive up to 2 months FREE plus an entry ticket into the draw • Renew your current membership between 1st April – 30th April to receive your entry ticket • Purchase a selected beverage from any bar within the Club during the promotional period to receive your entry ticket * Conditions apply

MAJOR DRAW Thursday 7 May @ 8pm Place your tickets in the barrel between 4pm – 8pm on the same day (7/5/15) MAJOR PRIZE: Holden Cruze Equipe valued at over $18,000, including all on-road costs plus minor prizes of $2,000 in cash prizes. Must be present to win.

411 Great Western Highway, St Marys NSW 2760 | P 02 9623 1211 | F 02 9623 5689 E info@stmarysbandclub.com.au | www.stmarysbandclub.com.au

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

Step back in time EVENTS

JOKES

1513 - Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León first sights land in what is now Florida.

1800 - Ludwig van Beethoven leads the premiere of his First Symphony in Vienna.

1911 - The Australian Bureau of Statistics conducts the country’s first national census.

1912 - The ill-fated RMS Titanic begins sea trials.

1930 - After the mysterious death of Empress Zewditu, Haile Selassie is proclaimed emperor of Ethiopia.

1956 - As the World Turns and The Edge of Night premiere on CBS-TV. The two soaps become the first daytime dramas to debut in the 30-minute format.

1972 - Actor Charlie Chaplin returns to the United States for the first time since being labelled a communist during the Red Scare in the early 1950s.

Well, ‘tis that time of the year so let‛s have a bit of fun with the Easter Bunny.

BIRTHS

6. Why do we paint Easter eggs? Because it‛s easier than trying to wallpaper them!

742 1725 1840 1867 1875 1926 1981

-

Charlemagne, Frankish king (d. 814).

Giacomo Casanova, Italian explorer and author (d. 1798). Émile Zola, French author and critic (d. 1902).

Eugen Sandow, German bodybuilder (d. 1925).

Walter Chrysler, American businessman, founded Chrysler (d. 1940).

Jack Brabham, Australian race car driver (d. 2014).

Michael Clarke, Australian cricketer.

DEATHS 1872 1974 1987 2005

-

Samuel Morse, American inventor, invented the Morse code (b. 1791).

Georges Pompidou, French politician, 19th President of France (b. 1911).

Buddy Rich, American drummer, actor, and bandleader (b. 1917).

Pope John Paul II (b. 1920).

1. What do you call a bunny with a large brain? An egghead.

2. So, Easter commemorates when Jesus hid eggs for the disciples to find, and then he turned all the rabbits into chocolate, right?

3. Where does the Easter Bunny get his eggs? From Eggplants.

4. What happened to the Easter Bunny when he misbehaved at school? He was eggspelled!

5. Did you hear about the lady whose house was infested with Easter eggs? She had to call an eggs-terminator!

7. Q: What do you call a rabbit with fleas?

A: Bugs Bunny!

8. Q: Why was the little girl sad after the egg and spoon race?

A: Because an egg beater!

0. Q: What do you get if you pour boiling water down a rabbit hole?

A: A hot cross bunny .

10. Q: How do bunnies stay healthy? A: Eggercise 11. Q: Why won‛t Easter eggs go out at night?

A: They don‛t want to get “beat up”.

12. Q: Why couldn‛t the Easter egg family watch TV? A: Because their cable was scrambled.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Keepsake (8) 5 Anew (6) 9 Penetrating (8) 10 Panther (6) 12 Snares (5) 13 Well-kept (9) 14 Notable initial occurrences (6) 16 Blueprint (British spelling) (7) 19 Lend honor to (7) 21 Change for the better (6) 23 Snarls (9) 25 A glowing piece of coal (5) 26 Have as a logical consequence (6) 27 Deactivates (8) 28 Candies (6) 29 Feelings of ardent love (8)

DOWN 1 Garments of the torso (6) 2 Never stopping (9) 3 S S S S (5) 4 Buys into shares or bonds (7) 6 Flagpole (9) 7 Mediterranean herbs (5) 8 Reaps (8) 11 Decorate with gold leaf (4) 15 Laboratory researcher (9) 17 A loose high-necked blouse (9) 18 Inactivity (8) 20 Shout (4) 21 Breathe (7) 22 Came up (6) 24 What a book is called (5) 25 Muse of lyric poetry (5)

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

CONVICT Extraordinaire The Story of Arthur Bristol (1808 – 1884)

By Paul Wheel

rough weather, with long and irregular hours.

Two years passed then in September 1828 he was implicated, with other members of the HE rural serenity of a village boat crew, in the theft of ‘a bag of dollars’ from graveyard at Murringo, near Young, the baggage of the vessel ‘Nimrod’ which was belies the turbulent life of Arthur preparing to leave for Singapore. Bristol’s Bristol whose body was laid at rest there share of over 23 pounds was passed to a hutin 1884. keeper in an attempt to avoid detection (the Arthur was a son of Arthur and Elizabeth hut-keeper later refused to hand it back, there Bristol (nee Burke). His father was a being little honour among thieves). Bristol whitesmith and appears to have been born and his accomplices were found guilty and he in Nottingham, in the midlands of England. was sentenced to ‘a penal settlement’ for three In March 1823, Arthur Bristol in company years. After being held on the hulk, ‘Phoenix’ of others, stole a shawl worth 10 shillings (moored at Lavender Bay) for three months, from a shop in Leicester. He was sentenced he was transferred to the transport ship, ‘City to nine months imprisonment with hard of Edinburgh’ bound for Moreton Bay with labour, however within 10 days of his 167 other convicts. Even before the ship left release he re-offended, stealing a tea caddy Sydney a violent attempted mutiny by some worth two shillings and six pence and of the prisoners had to be quelled, resulting containing one shilling and three pence. in eight prisoners being wounded by gunshot, The penalty was raised to 12 months nine being flogged, and all the prisoners being imprisonment with hard labour, in the hope handcuffed and put in irons. that “by sending him to what he had not Bristol’s three years at Moreton Bay and been accustomed to (a little wholesome nearby Eagle Farm settlements were from exercise), he still might become a good January 1829 to February 1832. Located member of society”. The punishment where the city of Brisbane now stands, the failed to deter him from further criminal settlement was noted for its harshness and activity, as within a year of serving his brutality. His time there was characterised time, Bristol was facing the death penalty Arthur Bristol by fatal outbreaks of illness (Bristol himself for the burglary of a hat and other articles being briefly hospitalised with ophthalmia), murderous attacks from valued at five shillings. He was spared the hangman by being granted aborigines (even the Commandant Patrick Logan lost his life in this the Royal Mercy on condition that he was transported for life to New manner), prisoners being executed and with many escapes. Bristol South Wales or Van Dieman’s Land. This was in April 1826. He was discharged back to Sydney on the ‘Isabella’ and reassigned to the was described as having a stout frame, just over 5’ 6” with a fair Customs boat crew,s though certainly he would have been hardened complexion, light brown hair and grey eyes. and aged beyond his 23 years, if not chastened by the experience.

Bristol arrived in Sydney on the ‘Albion’ in February 1827, with In October 1833 Bristol was found drunk and disorderly after hours 191 other male convicts. Following a brief assignment to Joseph and ‘very insolent’, for which he received 25 lashes and returned Underwood (a merchant and shipowner who traded mainly in seal to service on the boats. Then in May 1834, he absconded from this skins and seal oil from the South Pacific), he was assigned with four service, only to be seized about a month later at Parramatta. This other convicts to the boat crews of the Surveyor and Searcher of cost him 14 days on the treadmill at Parramatta Gaol. Within a few Customs. The duties of Customs were to meet and board all arriving weeks he absconded again. He was caught soon after in Sydney and vessels, determine their name and tonnage, master’s name, last port sentenced to 12 months hard labour in irons, which usually meant of call and the nature of the cargo, assess and collect any duties manacles chained to leg-irons. payable, obtain clearance dockets, supervise unloading etc. For the Continues next issue.... small boat crew it was arduous work, often extremely dangerous in

T

Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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FINANCIALLY EDUCATE YOUR KIDS - START EARLY AND DO IT REGULARLY With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

MONEY and finance are sometimes dirty words in a lot of households. Everyone knows that it is important but a lot of people just don’t talk about it enough with their children.

From my 35 years of finance and life experience, it is obvious that a lot of people don’t do enough to educate their children on how money works.

We can’t expect the school system to be the sole provider of education and parents need to be more proactive in their child’s overall life education, especially when it comes to money and finance.

POCKET MONEY Children need to learn that you only get money or a reward after they have done something to earn it.

Young children can be rewarded when they demonstrate good behaviour like sharing and being co-operative etc. As they get a little older, they should start being responsible for some small jobs

around the home like cleaning up after themselves etc. The younger you start the better they learn anything in life.

The older they get the more they can do to help maintain the home. If they do more, then the amount of pocket money can be increased.

Giving children money for no “output” on their behalf just sets them up for an entitlement mentality. There are no free rides in life. I see this regularly when young people want to buy their first home but only have small savings and high debts and their only option is for the parents to give them funds.

BUDGETING As kids grow and start going to high school, they naturally want to start to spend. Spending is OK as long as it is done within a budget. Everyone over the age of 12 needs to have a budget but only a tiny percentage of people have one and stick to it.

Money that has been earned should be divided up into a few categories depending on age and the stage you are in life. People living with their parents

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

should save most of their income for big items like cars, holidays and their own home eventually. Some money needs to be saved separately so they pay for their weekly living expenses.

Also small amounts can be kept to pay for incidentals and a little can be used to donate to help other less fortunate than ourselves.

TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT MONEY Money shouldn’t be a taboo topic within the family. Around the dinner table (away from TV’s and electronic distractions) talk to your kids about the family budget. Talk about how much is earned, how much taxes are paid and what governments use the taxes for, how much the bills and expenses are each month, how much is owed on the mortgage and other debts, the repayments and expected time to repay it, how credit cards are effecting you, and how much is saved each month from what is left over and what the purpose of the savings is, ie keeping a buffer for emergencies, holidays, or a future new car etc.

How do we expect our kids to run their own household one day if they have no understanding of these basic principles.

SUPERANNUATION We should talk about savings in superannuation. I am continually amazed how most people have no idea or consideration of their superannuation funds and important that it is but that is another topic all together.

YOUR FAMILY ROOTS My experience has shown me that most people with Anglo Saxon backgrounds have no idea where their money goes and less likely to have discussions about money with their partners and family. Also, the more they earn, the more they spend. People with European and Asian backgrounds however generally have a better understanding of finances which is due to the financial education their parents gave them as kids.

The most powerful lessons are the ones taught at home using real life situations that affect them directly, not out a text book at school.

37 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

finance and real estate matters

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Exclusive Custom does it all

By Greg Martin

MIKKEL Isaac is a firm believer that hard workers always seem to end up with Lady Luck on their side.

The 23-year-old will do his utmost to keep that particular lady in close touch because he intends working his “butt off” to continue to be “lucky”.

Late last month, Mikkel opened his own business, Exclusive Custom Penrith at 11/37 York Road.

He had been working as a jackof-all-trades within the automobile industry for many years, getting a weekly wage doing something he loves – and saving his pennies with the hope of eventually owning and operating his own business.

That dream became a reality when he bit the bullet and decided to take the plunge.

As a kid growing up in Cambridge Gardens, Mikkel always took an interest in motor cars.

“I always knew school wasn’t my thing and that all I wanted to do with my life was work with cars,” Mikkel explained.

“I was in Year 9 at St Dominic’s (College) when I decided that enough

was enough so at 13 I left school and put myself out into the workforce working in the automobile industry.

“I was always good with my hands and have been able to turn myself to anything to do with motor vehicles.

“You name it, and I can do it!”

Exclusive Custom Penrith does it all!

Tyre fitting, customising – if it has anything to do with motor vehicles, Mikkel and his two employees are the “go to” men.

Custom exhausts, turbo conversions, car lowering, colouring tyre walls and

39 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

motoringnews motoring

the retailing of wheels and tyres – Exclusive Custom Penrith does it all.

To celebrate the opening of his workshop and showroom, Mikkel is offering reduced prizes on G8 wheels and a range of tyres including Rotalla, Dunlop, Goodyear, Bridgestone , Falcon and Briland.

So why don’t you make your own luck and get yourself down to Exclusive Custom Penrith to meet Mikkel and his team.

Visit Exclusive Custom Penrith on Facebook or call Mikkel on 0451 096 747.

11/37 YORK RD, PENRITH

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Nicole Keene - Blink Property - 1300 629 610

42 Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

34 Sharon Spindler - Aussie Home Loans - 4732 6711

44 Mark Fitzpatrick - Penrith Valley Pest Control - 0430 220 263

34 Dave Seager - Seager Financial Services - 0411 107 776

46 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER

CATCHING UP WITH KING WALLY LEWIS LAST Friday I caught up with the King Wally Lewis as part of an Origin promotion we filmed for the good people of A-mart Sports.

The commercial will be out just before Origin this year and if I do say so myself, you’ll love it.

It was great catching up with one of my yesteryear nemesis and it was also great to see what a great place Wally is in after a health scare a few years back.

Great player, great bloke, great mate!

A LOT has happened since we last spoke. Two weeks ago I wrote about the Panthers’ rampant start to the season. Now after a month they are two from four after losses to the Roosters and the high flying Knights.

But as everyone knows there’s an eternity of football still to be played this season, the Panthers will dust themselves off and get themselves back in the WIN column.…………………………………..

Two weeks ago the political landscape looked uncertain, now Mike Baird remains premier after a resounding victory over Luke Foley.

I’m not a politically minded person but living here where we all do, my eyes will be firmly fixed on Mr Baird’s promises of doing SOMETHING about the bottle necked M4 most of us encounter on daily basis.

The job, as they say, is ‘only half finished’ – Mr Baird has to now to honour his pledge of making every resident of the Nepean’s trip a quicker one when heading east.

LAST Sunday morning I had the opportunity to spend it with some incredibly impressive humans.

I was invited by Nathan Pentecost of the Penrith Wheelchair Rugby League team to head along to the Menai indoor sports centre to watch the finals of their competition.

Teams from Penrith, Parramatta, Roosters, Raiders, Knights, Cronulla, Bulldogs and Dragons were present and were all out to conquer the minor premiers, the Raiders and defending premiers the Dragons.

I took my youngest daughter, Rafferti, along to show her how strength comes in many ways. She loved it.

It was also great to see Panthers coach, Ivan Cleary, and his son, Jett, in attendance, as well as ex-Panther and Bulldog, Steve Turner, along with Martin Meredith from the NSWRL. For the record, the Raiders toppled the Knights in the grand final, 52-30.

Bravo to all concerned!

LAST Saturday was also a day that was a first for the Geyer family occurred.

My middle-daughter, 16-year-old Kennedi, played her first game of tackle footy!

The King and I. Wally Lewis and Mark Geyer during filming for the A-Mart television commercial.

She’s been contemplating it for a while now but we didn’t think she’d carry through with it. She did!

And loved it! As did we watching her. In fact, the u/18 girls from both the St Clair Comets and the Glenmore Park Brumbies put on a display that their male counterparts would have envied.

Well done girls, fantastic stuff!

AND finally, I am really looking forward to the third season of the Mark Geyer Cup which kicks off in a couple of weeks and involves schools from across the Nepean and Hawkesbury.

Teams will compete in round-robin competitions in under 14s years, under 16 years and opens.

The idea of the MG Cup is to introduce new converts to the Greatest Game of All. And what is the Greatest Game of All? Rugby League, of course.

See ya at the game!

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

BARRIER RISE BULLRUSH: Displayed stacks of ability winning his Rosehill trial from stablemate Defender. Both hail from the John Hawkes stable but this one looks superior.

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EKKLESTONE: Sparingly raced gelding shaping well this campaign. He’s a recent trial winner for Joe Pride and the stable simply churns

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Panthers girls on fire THE Penrith Panthers senior women’s team is currently setting the standard for the Nepean Basketball Association in this year’s Waratah Championship League (WCL) competition.

Head coach, Chris Jones, has run 15 players thus far, including talented juniors who have bravely stepped in to fill the breach when senior players are unavailable.

Young Briana Letta has been firing on all cylinders and certainly looks to have a bright future in the sport.

The Panthers women lost their first game of the season to the Bankstown Bruins but have since put the sword to the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Sutherland Sharks and Sydney Comets in consecutive rounds.

Tahlia Tupaea (21.3 points per game), Alicia Poto (17.3 ppg) and Dominika Offner (7.3 ppg) currently lead the point-scoring but coac Jones is getting solid support throughout the squad.

The Panthers men are sitting in no-man’s-land, with a 3-3 win-loss record, hardly the credentials for playoff success.

Losses to an under-strength Bankstown Bruins, the Central Coast Crusaders and Sydney Comets leave the Panthers on the fringe of the top six but results need to start going their way if they want to establish a position in the upperechelon of teams.

Penrith’s leading contributors at this stage of the season are Ben Kearins (15.6 points per game), Louis Brandt (14.3 ppg), Svetomir Gavrilovic (12.7ppg), Jarrod Sorenson (11.5ppg) and Madol Chol (11.5ppg).

Both Penrith teams have a bye over this Easter weekend, then travel to the Dartford Road Indoor Sports Stadium at Thornleigh on April 11 to play the Hornsby Spiders.

The women take to the court at 4pm followed by the men at 6pm.

Penrith, junior Briana Letta, in action for the Panthers’ WCL women’s team in round two. Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au

ON THE MAT

2014 Over 65 Pairs finalists – runners-up : David Hoy and Graham Britton (Windsor) are on the left with winners, Kevin Merriman and the late Vic Orchard from Penrith.

THERE are a number of teams undefeated after five rounds of Pennants. They are Wallacia (Grade 1), Springwood (Grade 2), Windsor (Grade 3), Lawson (Grade 5.1), Hazelbrook (Grade 6.1), Glenbrook Panthers (Grade 7.1) and Hazelbrook (Grade 7.2).

The standings for the Pennants following Round 5 are: Grade 1 – Wallacia 10, Blacktown Workers 6, Austral 6, Penrith 4, Blacktown City 2, Glenbrook Panthers 2.

Grade 2 – Springwood 9, Blacktown Workers 7, Austral 6, Penrith 4, St Marys RSL 2, Wallacia 2.

Grade 3 – Windsor 10, Penrith 6, St Marys RSL 4, Glenbrook Panthers 4, Springwood 4, Kingswood 2.

Grade 4 – Blacktown Workers 8, Penrith 6, Blacktown City 6, Springwood 6, Pitt Town 2, St Marys RSL 2.

Grade 5.1 – Lawson 7, Glenbrook Panthers 5, Penrith 4, Kingswood 2, St Marys RSL 2.

Grade 5.2 – Windsor 6, Richmond 6, Blacktown City 6, Austral 6, Blacktown Workers 4, Wisemans Ferry 2.

Grade 6.1 – Hazelbrook 8, Kingswood 6, Glenbrook Panthers 6, Penrith 6, Wallacia 2, St Marys RSL 2.

Grade 6.2 – Glenbrook Panthers 8, Windsor 8, Blacktown City 6, Blacktown Workers 4, Austral 4, Richmond 0.

Grade 7.1 – Glenbrook Panthers 10, Windsor 8, Blacktown Workers 4, Kingswood 4, Austral 4, Richmond 0.

Grade 7.2 – Hazelbrook 10, Lawson 8, Springwood 4, Kingswood 4, Penrith 4, Glenbrook Panthers 0.

THE district’s most sought after mid-week events are about to be played. They are the Over 65 Pairs and Over 65 Singles. Both of these events attract lots of entries each year.

With Col Crossingham The Over 65 Pairs will be played at Wallacia Bowling Club. Rounds 1 and 2 are scheduled to be played on April 22 and the Quarter Finals and SemiFinals on Wednesday, April 29.

This will culminate in the Final being played at Wallacia on Wednesday, May 6 commencing at 9am.

The Over 65 Singes will be played at Kingswood Bowling Club.

The first day, Wednesday May 13, is a round robin of games with the players entered in section of three.

In each game two players play and the third player marks the game.

During the day they will play 3 rounds giving each player an opportunity to play two games and mark one game. At the end of the day there will be a winner for each section.

On Wednesday, May 27, the section winners will play off and quarter finals will be played in the afternoon. Wednesday June 3 will see the semifinals and final played at Kingswood Bowling Club.

In 2014 there were 32 teams entered in the Over 65 Pairs and 36 players entered in the Over 65 Singles.

QUITE a number of clubs have got tournaments lined up for over the Easter weekend.

One such club, Penrith, has games on over the entire weekend.

On Good Friday there is Mens Pairs with $1,700 in prize money on offer. Easter Saturday has Open Triples. This is open to teams of men, ladies or mixed teams. Prize money of $600 is up for grabs.

Played over two days, Sunday and Monday, is the Open Pairs again open to men, ladies or mixed teams. Prize money of $2200 is on offer for this event.

A great weekend of bowls is expected with bowlers travelling from cubs in Sydney to compete as well as lots of locals.

45 Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

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46

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Nepean News 2 April 2015 Issue 146

REPEAT SETS WITH STEW MOSES

@THERIFFMARN

Panthers back in the pack FOOTY is a fickle game. One week your team is on top of the world the next your team is back in the pack. In Penrith’s case it definitely isn’t panic stations just yet despite losses to the Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights in the space of less than five days.

The reality is that some crucial injuries in amongst some questionable video referee decisions have conspired to bring to a halt for the time what has been an excellent start to season 2015 for the Panthers.

Firstly the news came through last Monday week that influential playmaker Jamie Soward required back surgery to sort out an issue that just wasn’t going away. It wasn’t apparent at the time Soward and co were carving up the Titans at Bathurst but his inability to take the shots for goal in the second half of the game proved to be a telling sign.

The Panthers still had nine days to prepare for their arch-nemesis, the Roosters for their first night game of the year. The Roosters talked it up pre-game that after their indifferent showing against Souths they would right the wrongs upfront with a powerhouse performance. There was also plenty of talk that Blake Ferguson, who having played two games into his comeback, was ready to explode and display the sort of form that once earnt him State Of Origin selection.

The Roosters made good on both counts – aided

by Penrith’s inability to respect possession through 16 errors, the Roosters forwards were relentless with ball in hand; made yards at will and caused problems for a Panthers defence that missed upwards of 64 tackles.

Ferguson also delivered having scored two tries and busted Penrith’s left edge defence on three occasions.

Yet for all their dominance and with precious little quality possession for halves Peter Wallace and Isaac John to work with, the Panthers remained competitive going down 20-12. Had it not been for a controversial no-try decision upheld by the video referees against what looked to be a spectacular first half try to Dallin Watene-Zelezniak in that very same corner of Allianz Stadium just six months earlier, the Panthers may well have still come away with the two points!

A plus for the Panthers was the return from injury of Josh Mansour, who immediately displayed the form that saw him earn a Kangaroos jersey with 19 runs for 218 metres, 9 tackle breaks, 1 line break, 1 try assist and 3 offloads.

James Segeyaro’s direction from dummy half was sorely missed against the Knights

The NRL gods were certainly not kind to the Panthers going into Round 4 with a less than ideal five day turnaround before making the trek up the M1 Motorway to face the resurgent Newcastle Knights.

Newcastle under Rick Stone have been the surprise co-leaders after three rounds, were back on home turf and looking for six wins in a row.

Panther fans hopes, already dented by the loss of Soward were dealt another blow when James Segeyaro, succumbed to a nasty facial injury as well as concussion suffered late against the Roosters and was replaced by new recruit Apisai Koroisau.

Cleary’s decision to pair Peter Wallace with his third halves partner in as many weeks in Bryce Cartwright, was no-doubt designed to counter the big Knights pack repeating the Roosters’ tactics of running at the Panthers’ halves.

While Cleary was apprehensive about how his team would start the game given the questionable scheduling decision from the NRL, I doubt even he envisaged the onslaught the Knights unleashed albeit aided by some poor errors and lack of discipline which left the Panthers in disarray trailing 18-0 inside the opening 20 minutes of the game.

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directed at the skipper.

The Knights were also brutal at times in defence.

Led by Beau Scott, who having played the hit-man role on Jonathan Thurston to such good effect two weeks earlier, reprised that role once more targeting Wallace who wasn’t having a great day at the office, relentlessly with some big hits which often stifled Penrith’s attacking options.

As was the case against the Roosters, again a crucial video referee decision late in the first half went against Penrith when Wallace was deemed to have made a double movement in planting the ball but as Wallace himself mentioned after the game “it didn’t affect momentum as we didn’t have any to begin with”.

Despite Penrith outscoring the Knights 10-8 for the remainder of the game, that lack of intensity in the opening 20 minutes was the deciding factor behind Penrith’s 26-14 loss especially when you consider over 40 missed tackles were racked up for the second game in succession. Penrith showed better respect in possession against the Knights making just six errors but Penrith’s attack lacked the creativity and organisation required to bridge a 20 point margin early in the second half.

The Panthers as Cleary stated after the game, will have no excuses for their next game as they have a nine-day turnaround to prepare for the Easter Monday home game against what will be a rejuvenated Cowboys side, who having started the season with three consecutive losses, travel to Penrith buoyed by their extra time win over the Storm. What a homecoming it could promise to be for former Panther Lachlan Coote, released early from his contract to take up the opportunity up north.

Penrith then despite a short five day turnaround have an opportunity to further get their season back on track when they come up against a Manly side down on form but never down on spirit no matter what the situation on or off the field. For Penrith fans, this game marks a return to Saturday night football against a Sydney opponent no less, and represents a great opportunity for fans to get out and show the NRL that Penrith fans do care when given the right day and time to attend a game.

See you at the game!

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Thursday, 2 April 2015

sport

HARPO’S MARKS

S SO Shane Warne has bbeen copping a blast ffrom all sections of the media following his post-match interview with the Australian team after they smacked the Kiwis in the final of the Cricket World Cup. The Cricket World Cup! I found it as interesting as having a laryngoscopy straight after a colonoscopy – using the same scope!

Anyway, Warnie seemed to take on the mantle as Grog Interviewer for Channel 9.

“Are you feeling thirsty?” he asked his country’s keeper, Brad Haddin.

Sure was and looking forward to well-deserved celebratory drinks!

“Are you going to have a bit of a drink tonight too Smitty (Steve Smith)? Are you going to get thirsty as well? The boys are thirsty they seem,” Warne asked.

He sure was!

The great spinner then latched onto a couple more players.

“So what’s the plan - besides lots of drink and that? How long is that going to last? Just one night? Two nights?

We saw (coach) Darren Lehmann say

it might last a week. Do you reckon it will go a bit longer than that?”

Nothing wrong with that but you would think someone of Warne’s experience as a cricketer and commentator could have found a few other questions to put to the players and their coach.

Perhaps Warnie had already started to celebrate?

Enough to send you to drink. And sure ’nuff it did!

SO Parramatta skipper, Tim Mannah, has warned a reduction in the National Rugby League interchange could lead to more injuries.

Plans are to reduce the number of replacements in some way – perhaps down to just six.

“They say it’s better for injury but you leave a few blokes out there too long, technique goes out the window and all of a sudden injuries come there as well.”

Crap! Techniques won’t go out the window but the ability to put players into the right place at the right time due to tiredness will certainly open up the game in attack.

Oh dear, the poor little diddums will now have to train to play for 80 minutes as men have done for the great majority of seasons the game has been played in this country since 1908.

SO the concussion situation is again in the news following Sea Eagles playmaker Dale Cherry-Evans copping a heavy head-knock in the game against the Dragons last week.

Surely it is time for independent doctors to make the decision as to whether a player should or should not stay on the field after copping a whack to the noggin’?

The pressure on club doctors in saying “yea” or “nay” to a star player remaining out on the paddock must be enormous.

Take it out of their hands!

HIGH MARKS 1: Looking forward to the first Championships day at Royal Randwick on Saturday when four Group 1 races will be run.

HIGH MARKS 2: There were a number of terrific runs in last Saturday’s The BMW at Rosehill. But the horse getting best to the line was Who Shot Thebarman. Follow him!