Nepean News 3 February 2023

Our three local members stand again

You’ve probably started to notice that there is an election in the air. Flyers, signage and smiling candidates have began to appear at shopping centres and train stations around town. There may not be as much kissing babies with this election being a postpandemic one, but everything else seems to be campaign business as usual.

The NSW state election will be held on

Saturday 25th March this year and the candidates for each of our local electorates have hit the ground running.

The current Members of Parliament in our three local electorates are throwing their hats back in the ring.

Prue Car (Labor) will once again stand for Londonderry.

Stuart Ayres (Liberal) will once again stand for Penrith.

Tanya Davies (Liberal) will once again stand for Badgerys Creek (which was known as Mulgoa when she held it).

As you’ll see on the following pages and indeed over the next few issues there are plenty of candidates hoping to take their jobs. There are a few new faces on the campaign trail, as well as some familiar ones including Karen McKeown who is going for another round with her sights on the Penrith seat.

We’ll provide you will state election coverage over the next few weeks, and you can also follow the latest campaign news on our Nepean News facebook page. Strap in!

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

95B Station St, Penrith

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

The Daily Telegraph ran a story this week flagging frightening expected closure rates of small businesses in NSW.

The newspaper stated that a survey conducted by Business NSW revealed a staggering 30 per cent of small businesses face closure if there’s no economic change in sight.

The closing down of nearly one third of our local small businesses would be nothing short of catastrophic. The economic, product and service loss would cripple our state. And that’s before we even begin to think of the job losses.

The weight that small business owners carry, as the backbone of our economy, is huge.

And we should know, we are a small business too. And we survive on the support of local small businesses through advertising. So if small businesses crumble, unfortunately so does your local news among other business to business operations.

As small business owners we’ve collectively been through more tumbles than a thousand clothes dryers over the last few years. We’ve all had to tackle bushfires, floods, pandemics, restrictions and lockdowns head on. Thankfully there was some government help available at the worst times, but the truth is many slipped through the cracks of entitlement. So as we all emerge, many small businesses carry eye-watering debt. Many of us went backwards trying to juggle rent, business loans, wage gaps and all the other associated costs of keeping the doors open with little to no income. So now that we’ve weathered the storm so to speak, we face a dramatic rise in interest rates, electricity and general costs of living; it is a recipe for utter disaster.

We can’t all work for the government - we need small businesses to have a thriving society.

If you’ve never owned a small business, imagine for a second, what our community would look like if they all disappeared. No restaurants, retail shops, pubs or coffee shops. Kid’s entertainment centres - gone. hairdressers, beauticians, dentists, optometrists, medical centres, chemists! Oh my as you go through the list it gets scarier and scarier.

If you’ve ever owned one you’ll know that as a small business owner you pretty much step off a cliff on a trapeze with no safety net beneath you. There’s no such thing as a sickie if your skills are required. There’s nobody to report to if the week’s trade means you got short-paid. And when the income levels are low, the one who needs to take the hit is you.

Running a small business is certainly not for the delicate. The beast you operate will absolutely challenge your strength, dedication, stamina and most of all your resilience.

And although the challenges are huge and constant, small business owners do it because we believe in what we offer and we love doing it, so the majority of us will stick at it even when the chips are down.

With a state election looming, writing policy that ensures 30 per cent of small businesses don’t slam their doors shut will be one of the biggest jobs for whoever will form government come the end of March. Dom Perrottet and Chris Minns, please do not take the massive amount of small business owners for granted.

We are watching and waiting to hear from you.

I WAS thrilled to learn that Bill and Karyn Borg will now sport the letters OAM after their names having been recognised in the Australia Day honours.

Their dedication to the St Clair Comets JRLC has been a major contribution to the fabulous club it is today.

My two sons played for the Comets from the under 6’s and we have very fond memories of a well-run club that provided a family-type atmosphere thanks to Billy and Karyn.

Over the years I have seen that their dedication to the club has never wavered for a second. Karyn’s smiling face and helpful attitude was always a very warm welcome. And Bill, even following his retirement, had to challenge himself to go a day without wearing a Comets t-shirt. he absolutely loves the club and they love him.

Well done Billy and Karyn on your Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). We’d be hard-pressed to find a more deserving couple. Congratulations.

Dedicated volunteers recognised

New faces announced as state election candidates

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

Some new faces will be spotted on corflute election signs and around town chatting to voters.

The Labor Party has announced that Garion Thain has been preselected as the NSW Labor candidate for Badgerys Creek.

The electorate of Badgerys Creek was formerly known as Mulgoa.

Mr Thain is a lifelong local resident and says he is a true-believer in its future. He’s keen to begin campaigning and listening to local residents on what they want for the future of their area.

Mr Thain is the son of long-term Councillor John Thain and some readers might also recognise his name as a former journalist at this publication. He will take on the current local member (Mulgoa) Liberal Tanya Davies who has held the seat since 2011.

“I’m really excited to be running. The chance to

listen to our locals and hear what they want for their area, to share our positive vision for the future, and hopefully have the chance to represent them is the honour of a lifetime,” Mr Thain said.

“I’m going to be out in the community as much as I can, and I look forward to listening to as many residents as possible.”

“The current government has had 12 years to explain the details of what they want to do after the airport opens. So far residents have been told that we’re accommodating a new population centre in the form of Bradfield, but only Labor is promising to invest in the critical infrastructure like a hospital that our electorate will need to support it. It’s time we had a fresh start.”

In the seat of Londonderry, the Liberal Party has endorsed Samantha Talakola. Samantha says she will fight for her western Sydney community drawing on her passion as a community worker and mental health advocate.

“Londonderry needs a voice to represent the

diverse and growing community to ensure no one is left behind. I will work to ease the pressure on the family budgets and continue the record investment in education and health,” Ms Talakola said.

“Only a Perrottet Liberal Team can deliver for Londonderry as a rapidly changing area. I want everyone to have a voice and the opportunity to live, work and raise a family in this wonderful community.

Ms Talakola has a strong community driven background having worked in the community services industry for nearly a decade. She has been supporting people in Western Sydney in the areas of youth work, disabilities, mental health, families and women escaping domestic violence, and has worked with local government in the social strategy area.

The seat of Londonderry is currently held by Labor’s Deputy Leader, Prue Car, who has been the member since 2015.

The NSW State Election is on Saturday 25 March 2023.

Valentine’s Day Flowers

Marys Florist | 4732

Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist. While Roses are a traditional gift to send on Valentine’s Day, other flowers can be just as well received. Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor.

We can deliver your Valentine’s Day gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

Mamre road upgrade moves ahead

An important milestone has been reached with the tender process getting underway for the first stage of the Mamre Road upgrade.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies said every driver in the region would benefit from the upgrade to a 3.8 kilometre stretch of Mamre Road between the M4 Motorway, St Clair and Erskine Park Road, Erskine Park.

“Mamre Road is a key transport corridor, which provides connections to the Western Sydney Employment Area and the proposed Western Sydney Aerotropolis,” Mrs Davies said.

“This is a rigorous and detailed process to ensure we get the right organisation to carry out the work, because this stretch of Mamre Road will be important to professional

New reporting option

drivers, commuters and anyone else trying to get from A to B.

“Since the Review of Environmental

Factors was determined in July 2022, the focus has been on the concept design for the project and now we’re

ready to move forward.”

Transport for NSW is now seeking registrations of interest from potential applicants. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to work with Transport for NSW before a preferred tender is chosen later this year.

The NSW Government has committed $248 million to Mamre Road upgrade between the M4 Motorway and Erskine Park Road. Construction work is expected to commence in 2024.

Investigative works are also underway for an upgrade of Mamre Road south of this section, between Erskine Park Road and Kerrs Road, Kemps Creek.

For more information about the project, go to nswroads.work/ mamreroadupgrade

Removing barriers for domestic violence victim-survivors

A RE-ElECTED NSW liberal and Nationals Government will provide victim-survivors of domestic violence with access to first home buyer support and interest-free rental bond loans to help them rebuild their lives.

Under the initiative, the Government will waive the Rentstart Bond loan eligibility criteria for people leaving domestic violence and provide access to both the First Homer Buyer Choice and First Home Buyer Assistance schemes.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said these reforms would help remove major barriers to housing at a time when people needed it most. “We want to make it easier for those people leaving an abusive relationship to be able to rebuild their lives, as well as the lives of their children,” Mr Perrottet said.

“One of the most important first steps is securing a safe home, which is why we will make all of our first home buyer concessions available so they’re able to access a stamp-duty concession or opt in to pay a land tax instead.

improve safety.”

Minister for Families and Communities Natasha Maclaren-Jones said it was critical that domestic violence victim-survivors had access to safe housing. “The NSW liberal and Nationals Government is committed to supporting victim-survivors to have safe and stable accommodation with wrap around support to help them to get back on their feet.”

These measures build on a range of existing supports provided by the Government to help people escape domestic violence, including:

• Waiving the fees associated with changing your name and obtaining a new driver’s license;

• Facilitating the immediate termination of a tenancy to escape violence;

• Providing 24/7 support via the NSW Domestic Violence line to help find them a safe place to stay or transport for them and their children; connect them to police, courts, lawyers and counsellors; and help with a safety plan.

THE NSW Police Force has unveiled an enhanced online reporting option to allow victims of sexual assault to provide information without having to take part in a formal police interview.

While police always encourage victims of any crime to make a formal report, it is acknowledged that for a number of reasons, victims of sexual assault often do not wish to speak about their experiences nor speak with police and go through the legal process.

The SARO is accessed through the online Community Portal and is available in 12 languages, making the reporting option more accessible to victims.

This replaces the old process of printing and completing a 14-page document and emailing the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad.

The SARO questionnaire can be located on the NSW Police Force website: https://portal.police.nsw. gov.au/.../sexualassaultreporti...

“We will also make interest-free loans available to cover the bond on a private rental, ensuring they can quickly secure a new home by removing a potential financial barrier.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said a re-elected liberal Nationals Government would legislate changes to expand the criteria of the First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme and First Home Buyer Choice.

“Under the changes, victim-survivors will be able to access stamp duty exemptions and concessions the same way first home buyers can, even if they have previously owned property with a former partner,” Mr Kean said.

“It’s a small change that can make a big difference to helping victim-survivors buy a home to call their own.” Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said supporting victim-survivors is a priority for NSW Government.

“We’re building on our record investment in prevention and support because we don’t want to see more heartbreaking headlines about someone being killed or injured by a person who claimed to love them,” Mrs Ward said.

“Reforms including the Right to Ask domestic violence disclosure scheme and expansion of electronic monitoring are nation-leading initiatives which will

The NSW liberal and Nationals Government is investing record funding of over $700 million in initiatives to support Women’s Safety including:

• The ‘Right to Ask’ scheme where people can find out if their partner has a history of domestic violence offences;

• $20 million for up to 200 additional electronic monitoring devices;

• $426.6 million to expand the Core and Cluster initiative, to deliver and operate new women’s refuges that will support up to an additional 2,900 women and children escaping domestic and family violence each year. This is the largest funding commitment ever made to the domestic violence sector;

• Doubling Domestic and Family Violence leave for NSW Government sector employees from 10 to 20 days;

• landmark laws to criminalise coercive control in intimate partner relationships;

• Nation-leading affirmative consent laws, which commenced on 1 June 2022;

• Releasing state-wide plans to address domestic, family and sexual violence that will respond to and align with the National Plan;

• Banning self-represented people accused of domestic violence in criminal and related proceedings from directly cross-examining domestic violence complainants.

Matilda Nepean Private Hospital opens in Penrith

By Noel Rowsell

The World class 90-bed, subacute private hospital Matilda Nepean has opened its doors to the Penrith community

Formally opened by Melissa McIntosh MP, Member for Lindsay and the hon Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, Matilda Nepean provides the rapidly growing Western Sydney community with specialist care services that include mental health, ambulatory care, rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, geriatrics and palliative care.

The hospital is located in Kingswood’s health and education precinct, opposite Nepean hospital, creating opportunities for integrated healthcare services and allowing

clinicians to seamlessly treat public and private patients across multiple world-class facilities.

The $44 million hospital is owned by investors in Australian Unity’s $3.7 billion healthcare Property Trust and leased to operator Matilda health Care under a 30-year lease. Construction of the hospital commenced in April 2021.

Australian Unity’s healthcare Property Trust also owns several parcels of land opposite Matilda Nepean, totalling 3,565 square metres. In the long-term, further development stages may expand the hospital’s facilities and capabilities to grow with the needs of Western Sydney.

Dr harry Pannu, Managing Director of Matilda health Care said “Matilda Nepean will play a vital role in meeting Western Sydney’s evolving health needs.

“With mental health conditions

rising and the population of older Western Sydney residents set to grow 166 per cent by 2036, there is clear demand for centrally-located, high quality treatment options.

“Matilda Nepean is honoured to join the Penrith community and deliver excellent patient outcomes in Sydney’s West. Our clinician-led approach means the highest quality of care is embedded into every aspect of the patient journey, from our inpatient therapy sessions and day programs to the hospital’s boutique, hotel-like setting.

“For years to come, Matilda Nepean will support the health and well-being of Western Sydney residents.”

Chris Smith, General Manager of healthcare Property, Australian Unity, said “The hospital is another example of Australian Unity’s longterm commitment to delivering high-

quality nation-building healthcare infrastructure.

“Australian Unity is proud of our partnership with Dr harry Pannu and Matilda health Care, an operator which shares our values and our longterm vision. Matilda Nepean’s opening represents a win-win-win for Penrith residents, clinicians in Western Sydney and for investors in our healthcare Property Trust, who will benefit from the long-term income stream of the 30year lease.

“We are also excited about the longer-term opportunity to work with Matilda in expanding the hospital’s facilities and capabilities across our adjacent parcels of land, adding additional beds, services and facilities to grow with Western Sydney. This is something investors, tenants and patients in the western suburbs can look forward to.”

Matilda Nepean & the Official Opening. Photos supplied

Here I come, ready or not

the new year got off to a surprising start for elisha when her second child arrived two weeks earlier than expected.

New bub Rosie-May entered the world at Elisha’s home in Colyton last month about eight minutes after paramedics Tamara and Geoff arrived.

Recently they got the chance to reunite with Elisha, partner Brendan and a very cute 10-day-old Rosie-May.

Anzac Memorial Scholarship Tours to Singapore And Darwin

StudentS across nSW will have the opportunity to turn their love of history into first-hand experience with applications now open for the Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the annual Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship tour would give young history buffs the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of the history of Australians at war.

“Twenty students from across NSW will be selected to participate in a two-week study tour of Singapore and Darwin visiting historic sites relating to the Second World War,” Mr Perrottet said.

“The experience the students will take from this study tour will be invaluable as they see the impact of the history of Australians at war.”

Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney David Elliott said the tour group would

first head to Singapore to visit locations such as Fort Canning Park, Fort Siloso and Changi Prison Chapel and Museum, and then on to Darwin to visit a number of sites including the Military and Aviation museums and the USS Peary Memorial.

“Scholarship recipients will learn about the military history of the Second World War and visit locations that felt the full force of the war. Australians fought abroad in Singapore, and our nation experienced the war on our shores during the bombing of Darwin in 1942,” Mr Elliott said.

“This is an enlightening opportunity for students from New South Wales, and I encourage all Year 10 and Year 11 history students to apply for the opportunity to be selected.”

2022 Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship recipient Meisha Green from MidCoast Christian College described the tour as a life changing

experience for which she will always be grateful.

“To be accepted into such a prestigious scholarship was truly humbling and left me with a feeling of duty to take in every bit of knowledge and share that with my community,” Miss Green said.

“It opened my eyes to the reality and rawness of what our soldiers had to go through daily and the horrific sights they saw.”

the tour will take place in the 2023 Spring school holidays (22 September to 4 October).

Eligible students can apply online by submitting a short personal essay, a letter of recommendation, a parent consent form and a copy of a marked history assignment.

Applications will close on 13 March 2023. More information, and details on how to apply are available at www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/premiersanzac-memorial-scholarship/2022/

Precious memories preserved

the NSW Government is focussed on recognising and preserving Australia’s service through the nSW Government’s Anzac Community Grants Program.

“I was pleased to announce a grant for the City of Penrith RSL sub-Branch to go towards their memorabilia preservation,” Stuart Ayres MP said. The Memorial Display at the Penrith RSL has a wide variety of medals, uniforms and artworks on show and everyone is welcome to pop by for a visit.

Top of the pops for 2022 baby names

Charlotte looks set to be the most popular girls’ name in NSW in 2022 while oliver is the number one boys’ name for the eighth year running.

attorney General Mark Speakman and Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello revealed the current top 10 NSW baby names for 2022, as recorded by the NSW registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

“Welcoming a baby into the family is a joyous time for parents and selecting a name is one of the most important decisions they’ll make. It’s always interesting to see which names are the most popular each year,” Mr Speakman said.

“After finishing third in 2021, Charlotte is well placed to finish top of the charts joining oliver who has been the number one baby boys’ name in NSW since 2014,” Mr Speakman said.

“amelia, Isla and Mia have also made the top 10 for several years running, along with Jack, Noah, and William.

“We welcome the state’s newest residents and congratulate all NSW families who brought a little bundle of joy into their home in 2022.”

Mr Dominello said that parents

have the option of registering the birth of a child online or by post using a paper form.

“registering your child’s birth establishes their legal identity in the community and is important in accessing government services such

as Medicare. Parents have up to 60 days from the date of birth in which to submit a registration form,” Mr Dominello said.

“While not compulsory, the overwhelming majority of parents also order a paper birth certificate for

their child at the time of birth. When the first of its kind NSW Digital Birth Certificate is launched later this year, families will also benefit from having secure access to their child’s identity documents anywhere, at any time.

“Congratulations to NSW families now enjoying parenthood, either welcoming their first child or expanding their family in 2023.”

Top 10 names for girls in 2022

1. Charlotte

2. amelia

3. olivia

4. Isla

5. Mia

6. ava

7. ella

8. Matilda

9. Sienna

10. Chloe

Top 10 names for boys in 2022

1. oliver

2. Noah

3. leo

4. William

5. theodore

6. Jack

7. henry

8. luca

9. thomas

10. Charlie

In 2022, 83,411 babies were registered in NSW, 6,648 fewer than in 2021. however, as parents have 60 days to register their newborn, babies who were born in December 2022 may yet to be registered.

the top 100 baby names in NSW will be revealed later this year.

Ross Hutchison Foundation hosts Charities Race Night

By Noel Rowsell

The Ross h utchison Foundation and the Penrith Paceway hosted a Charities Night at the Paceway on Wednesday 25th January, with 8 of the major charities working in the Penrith district recognised with naming rights across the respective 8 races on the night.

Ross hutchison was the emcee (Master of Ceremonies) on the night and each of the 8 charities represented were given the opportunity to speak on their respective organisation.

PCYC: Australia’s pre-eminent youth organisation, working with police and community to empower young people to reach their potential. “We get young people active in life, work with young people to develop their skills, character and leadership, reduce and prevent crime by, and against, young people and provide programs to suit all ages and lifestyles such as Gym and Fitness, Gymnastics, boxing and more.”

Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk: held every Thursday night at the Nepean River, with an open invitation to ‘come and join a bunch of like-minded men for a weekly walk and talk’. The Walk aims to promote physical, mental and social wellbeing among attendees. Various other local groups and services have engaged with the Walk over the past four years, finding real benefits for their clients and members.

Westcare: has been servicing needy people and families across the Penrith area since 1977. Benevolent activity streams include emergency Relief, Domestic Violence, School Well-being, Mental health, CareKit programs, Annual Christmas Appeal and more. ‘Local needs met by Local People vision helps to facilitate effective partnerships with other likeminded organisations to increase positive impact among vulnerable residents.

Penrith Boccia Club: Is a NSW Sports Club, affiliated with Boccia Australia. Boccia is a fast-growing, inclusive sport for people with disabilities. At Penrith Boccia Club, we understand the importance of teamwork and how being part of a team can help people perform better. All of our members benefit from being together. We train regularly throughout the year, two times a week. In the past

two years, the club has more than doubled in regular members who attend to compete each week.

Ross Hutchison Foundation: With the help of our many volunteers, the Ross hutchison Foundation helps individuals and families in need, as well as partnering with many local charities. The Foundation holds regular fundraisers throughout the year, providing a great way to raise awareness of the projects it supports and to raise money to continue the Foundation’s vital work. Support the Foundation through financial donations, material gifts or volunteering! Gifts to the Ross hutchison Foundation go directly to support people in need. In the past 3 weeks, we have played a huge role in the delivery of 5 truck loads of food, clothes, furniture, bedding and childrens’ toys being transported to Eugowra, to aid victims of floods. Another convoy will be following next weekend via CeO of The Foundation, George Mavros and in September, we will be part of 200-strong convoy from the Camper & Trailer Group, carrying paint and tools and ready for action.

Mama Lana’s: Mama Lana’s Community Foundation (MLCF) is a wholly not-for-profit

organisation dedicated to helping the often forgotten, homeless and underprivileged community in the greater Penrith region, to advance their well-being and prospects for future independence. The foundation offers hot meals six nights a week, supplies food and toiletry packs, as well as providing clothing, sleeping bags, swags and blankets to keep the homeless and underprivileged warm during cold Penrith nights. MLCF also work with and assist other local charities and support services. “When we can, we respond to crisis calls from people who need a hand up with food, clothing, furniture, and in some cases, financial issues.”

Music 43: Music 43 was founded in 1988 by John hebblewhite AM. It is a not-for-profit organisation that supports young musicians by loaning high quality instruments from its everexpanding collection. The ‘43’ in Music 43 represents the number of the Spinal Ward at Lidcombe hospital, where John worked for many years as a Spinal Nurse and NUM. Over the years, Music 43 has raised thousands of dollars and supported hundreds of aspiring musicians through instrument loans and performance opportunities.

Music 43 provides countless

opportunities for aspiring musicians. As we would all know music has a positive influence on people. For the musicians to whom the instruments are loaned, the opportunities Music 43 provides them are so important.

By learning an instrument, they have the chance to learn a new skill, to be part of musical groups and to develop positive skills that extend beyond their musical ability such as problem solving and social interaction.

Freedom Across Australia: Freedom Across Australia is a charity which had its formal beginnings in December 1999, established to give experiences in the real world, which are not easily accessible or affordable for people with a disability, particularly those who rely heavily on carers for their day to day needs.

The idea grew from John hebblewhite’s time in charge of a hospital ward with people afflicted with paraplegia, tetraplegia and head injury, together with many superimposed disabilities with psychological and psychiatric parameters. John sought the assistance of the local Lions Club and through some of its members initiated weekend trips away from the ward to Mudgee.

Volunteers who assist with trips come from across Australia, including Tasmania, South Australia Victoria and NSW and trips away have included Alice Springs, Darwin, Perth, Bundaberg, Central Victoria and Tasmania to name a few. Costs are kept to a minimum by seeking assistance from Lions Clubs in the places being visited arranging for use of accommodation (often Community halls with amenities) where the group could bed down overnight. In addition, volunteers for each trip pay an amount equal to the participants. Donations for non-perishable food items are sought as well.

“I would like to thank Roscoe hutchison for his invitation to attend tonight and the services of the Paceway and their staff for putting such an entertaining evening to highlight so many worthy charities,” said Dorothy hemming.

Ross Hutchison Foundation ‘Charities Race Night’ at Penrith Paceway.

Perpetrators of elder abuse mostly adult children

Authors: Karina Penfold & Lisa Barca, Coleman Greig Lawyers

The definition of ‘elder abuse’, as adopted by the World Health Organisation, is “a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust which causes harm or distress to an older person”. Sadly, Wills & Estates Lawyers Karina Penfold and Lisa Barca of Coleman Greig have seen a steady rise of elder abuse within their practice, and are actively working to inform their clients of the different types of abuse, signs to look out for, and where to seek support.

Elder abuse can take different forms including physical, psychological, sexual, financial or neglect. A study conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies found that the most likely perpetrators of elder abuse (with the exception of sexual abuse) were adult children, with psychological and financial abuse ranking the highest.

Psychological abuse involves an act that causes emotional pain or injury to an older person. It can include insulting or threatening a person, acts of humiliation or disrespect, and controlling behaviours including confining or isolating a person, such as restricting the ability of other family members or friends to interact with the older person.

Financial abuse involves misuse or theft of an older person’s money or assets. This can include behaviours such as using funds without permission, using a document such as an Enduring Power of Attorney or a third-party authority for purposes outside of what was intended by the document, withholding care for

financial gain and selling or transferring property against the older person’s wishes.

A carefully considered Enduring Power of Attorney can be a safeguard against financial elder abuse. Although not exhaustive, below is a summary of what you should expect when preparing an Enduring Power of Attorney.

- An Enduring Power of Attorney should be prepared by an Australian legal practitioner. You can expect to meet with your lawyer (preferably in person);

- Your lawyer should speak with you one-on-one to ensure independence of your instructions.

- Your lawyer should ask you a range of openended questions about your family, your finances, your circumstances, your wishes and the reasons for those wishes.

- Your lawyer should discuss with you the options for appointment of multiple persons, and the pros and cons of having them act jointly or severally.

- Your lawyer should explain the powers that someone acting as your attorney would have, and explore whether it is appropriate to impose any limits or conditions on those.

- Your lawyer should discuss with you your wishes as to when the document would become operative. For example, this might be upon the attorney’s

acceptance of their appointment or only in the event of incapacity, with an added safeguard trigger for a medical practitioner to provide a letter to that effect. You may wish to specify the name or the qualifications of the medical practitioner.

- Your lawyer should explain your options should you ever wish to change the arrangements you put in place.

Currently two thirds of elderly people do not seek help when they are abused. If you or someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, you can seek help from:

Your lawyer

Your GP

Elder Abuse Helpline 1300 651 192

Seniors Rights Service 1800 424 079

NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline 1800 628 221

Domestic Violence Line 1800 656 463

NSW Police (Nepean) 02 4721 9413

Coleman Greig’s Wills & Estate Lawyers Karina Penfold and Lisa Barca, along with their team, are well-equipped to provide advice and support to those who feel they may be a victim to elder abuse, and can prepare an Enduring Power of Attorney to safeguard your assets. Contact Coleman Greig on +61 02 9895 9200 for more information.

Call for blood donors to support cancer patients

AHEAD of World Cancer Day on Saturday (February 4), Lifeblood is calling on people to support cancer patients by donating blood this February.

More than 10,000 blood donations are needed every week to support cancer patients, and with diagnoses predicted to increase by 22% by 2031, cancer patients will need more donors to support them over the next decade.

To raise awareness of how donated blood and plasma can help people living with cancer, Lifeblood has teamed up with fashion designer Camilla Franks who has designed a limited-edition bandage, which will be rolled onto the arms of donors at Lifeblood donor centres throughout February.

• 34% of all donated blood collected in Australia is used to treat cancer and blood diseases

• 76% of Australians know someone who has or has had cancer, but a majority does not know how blood and plasma helps cancer patients (54% percent

say they do not know anyone who has received a blood product, while a further 13% are unsure).

• Cancer patients often need many transfusions of blood, plasma, or plasma medicines during their treatment

• On average, one acute leukaemia patient in treatment needs nine units of red cells every month, or 36 units of platelets each month, with four donors needed to make up each bag of platelets. They could need one or both products for the duration of their diagnosis, which can last anywhere from eight months to years.

Executive Director of Donor Services, Cath Stone, said there was a common misconception that most blood is used in trauma and emergency situations, but that a third of blood and blood products are used by cancer patients.

“During chemotherapy, platelet counts can become very low so patients may receive a platelet

transfusion to prevent bleeding. Or they may need a medication made from donated plasma, called IVIg, which can help them remain strong enough to fight the disease, by boosting their immune systems.

“With the number of cancer diagnoses set to increase to around 1.7 million by 2031, we know that the demand for blood and plasma will be greater than ever over the next decade, so we need people to become donors now. We need 100,000 new donors this year alone,” Ms Stone said.

Speaking about her role in the campaign, Camilla Franks said: “Even in the moments we feel our most helpless, there is something we can do to help a loved one living with cancer. We can give blood. I hope that this design can act as a reminder of that for people — a symbol of hope. Wearing this bandage is a way to show the world that you care.”

To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app.

(L-R) Karina Penfold & Lisa Barca of Coleman Greig’s Wills & Estates Team.

Keeping Penrith school kids cool

StUArt AyreS MP, Member for Penrith, visited Jamison High School to announce that all Penrith schools have had air-conditioning installed through the $500 million cooler classroom Program.

Stuart Ayres said cooler classrooms mean a better education environment for our students. Whereas many people have talked about this issue in the past it has only been a liberal Government that has delivered it.

“Investments in air conditioning and the other school upgrades you have seen in Penrith can only happen if you manage the economy well. these upgrades are an educational dividend on that good economic management,” said Stuart Ayres.

Kate Harrison, Jamison High School P & c Vice President said having air-conditioning is so important as it provides our kids with a much better learning environment.

More students than ever before are set for a cooler summer as the rollout of the first dedicated school air-conditioning program continues to deliver for public schools across NSW.

The five-year program is delivering heating, cooling and fresh air ventilation in NSW public schools. this is the first time there has been a dedicated program to install air-conditioning in schools with those in the hottest part of the state prioritised.

Minister for education Sarah Mitchell said the program is ahead of schedule for the existing schools receiving the system and she was thrilled to add more schools to the program.

So far through our cooler classroom Program we’ve delivered air-conditioning to more than 7,500 learning spaces and 490 libraries,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We know how important it is to provide students with a comfortable learning environment and this investment has seen works completed at more than 780 schools, with another 200 underway.”

the systems installed as part of the cooler classrooms Program incorporate ‘smart systems’ technology that offer heating, cooling, and the provision of outside fresh air. the units will automatically shut-down after hours and will be powered by solar technology and battery storage to

off-set energy usage at more than 700 schools.

In addition to air-conditioning, Jamison High School is also part of a pilot program with solar power and battery energy storage to promote sustainability.

As a pilot - the solar and battery system will test the most effective way that solar energy can be safely generated, stored and consumed on site at the school.

Stuart Ayres said the battery and solar installation had been a raging success for the school.

“Jamison High School now makes more energy than it uses. this means money that would go

to paying a power bill is now being invested in educational outcomes.”

the NSW Government is investing $8.6 billion in school infrastructure over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 160 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. this builds on the more than $9.1 billion invested in projects delivered since 2017, a program of $17.7 billion in public education infrastructure. this is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

Doubling down on domestic violence perpetrators

A re-elected NSW liberal and Nationals Government will take a tougher stance on domestic violence by reviewing all sentences for domestic violence related offences and by making sweeping changes to the handling of cases within the judicial system.

Under this proposal, the Government will commission a full-scale review of all domestic violence related sentences. It will also undertake a feasibility study to establish a dedicated domestic and Family Violence court, fund a specialist domestic and Family Violence list across three local courts and fund a surge of an additional five magistrates to ensure cases are heard earlier.

Premier dominic Perrottet said the Government was taking a zero-tolerance stance to domestic violence by holding perpetrators to the highest account.

“We are cracking down on this abhorrent behaviour and sending a clear message to perpetrators that domestic violence will not be tolerated in our state,” Mr Perrottet said.

“this is about putting the safety of our people first, ensuring victim-survivors can get justice and that perpetrators are held to the highest account.

“As well as reviewing sentences, we are also taking the first steps towards establishing a standalone court for domestic violence cases and will be fast tracking domestic violence cases to ensure no one falls through the cracks of our legal system.”

Attorney General Mark Speakman said the NSW Government would fund a temporary surge of five additional local court magistrates to help clear the case backlog.

“this funding will temporarily raise the local court bench to a record 154 magistrates to address the backlog of defended matters left following major interruptions caused by the cOVId-19 pandemic,” Mr Speakman said.

“With around 37 per cent of pending local court criminal hearings domestic violence related, this will significantly improve time to justice for some of the State’s most vulnerable people.”

Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said these reforms complement existing measures, including new and upgraded safe rooms and remote witness rooms in metropolitan and regional courts delivered by the NSW Government.

“Victim-survivors of domestic violence should not fall away from the journey of seeking justice because the process is too hard, drawn-out and complex,” Mrs Ward said.

“We know COVID-19 created a significant backlog in domestic violence cases being heard by the local court, with some victims waiting nine months or longer to have their case heard.

“this is why we will put additional resources into fast tracking domestic violence cases so victimsurvivors are not lost in the legal system.

“the NSW liberal and National Government will also explore the establishment of a specialist domestic violence court to simplify the judicial process and ensure that we do everything possible to limit the heavy emotional toll these cases can take on victims.”

this builds on the NSW liberal and National Government’s investment of more than $2 billion in 2022-23 to increase access to justice and further strengthen courts and frontline services.

this review will commence as soon as possible if the NSW liberal and Nationals are re-elected, with the Sentencing council to be instructed to conduct the review.

Penrith receives $152 million in funding for City-shaping projects

Penrith City Council has secured $152 million in funding for several City-shaping projects through the nSW Government’s $5 billion Westinvest program.

An indoor multi-sports arena, 21 City-wide playspace upgrades, and a nursery upgrade and Cumberland Plain improvement project are among the eight successful projects which will help see Council realise its vision of transforming Penrith into one of the state’s most liveable cities.

Penrith Mayor tricia hitchen said these projects will deliver critical infrastructure to support the Penrith community’s needs now and into the future.

“We are undergoing a time of significant change and population growth in the Penrith Local Government Area with the development of the Western Sydney international Airport and the opportunities this will bring to our region,” Cr hitchen said.

“Coupled with the almost $30 million of Westinvest funding we secured last year, the funding announced today will help bring to life projects which will prepare us for this change, and transform Penrith into Western Sydney’s most desirable city for residents and visitors alike.”

“We thank the nSW Government for recognising the importance of these projects and the significant social and economic benefits they will deliver to the area.”

Indoor multi-sports arena, Claremont Meadows ($106,730,000)

An existing undeveloped site in Claremont Meadows will be transformed into a high-quality community sport precinct with an indoor multi-sports arena which will accommodate local, regional, state and potentially national events for a range of sports. it may feature:

• ten multi-sport courts, including one show court

• squash courts with movable walls to allow for flexibility of use

• multi-use rooms available for programs such as yoga, dance, martial arts, and special events

• a covered outdoor rink for rollerskating and roller sports

• change rooms, offices and meeting rooms, kiosk, lounge area, amenities, first aid room, and storage space

• a car park, including electrical car charging stations, over 200 new trees, and bus drop off areas

• outdoor recreation spaces for walking and basketball, and outdoor fitness equipment

• shared pathway connections along South Creek, and

• additional landscaping.

this facility will adjoin the Gipps Street recreation Precinct which, once complete, will realise over $40m of investment in the rehabilitation of the former waste facility site.

Cook Park upgrade, St Marys ($19,120,000)

Cook Park, which attracts an estimated 175,000 visitors annually, will receive a significant upgrade to meet the needs of both the sporting and general community in an area of high population growth.

the upgrade will include a new amenities building, grandstand extension with spectator viewing facilities, a new synthetic playing surface, additional car parking spaces, a new walking circuit, landscaping and tree planting.

City Park, Penrith ($8,230,000) this funding will be used to provide a significant boost to Penrith’s highlyanticipated urban retreat in the CBD.

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

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

City Park will stimulate the local day and night time economy by

encouraging people to venture further into the CBD to discover all the shops, cafes and restaurants on offer.

21 playspace upgrades, City-wide ($7,560,000)

A network of 21 playspaces across Penrith City will be upgraded with new play equipment, surface improvements, seating, tree planting, shade, landscaping, pathways and more, to ensure there are safe, modern and inclusive recreation spaces across Penrith for young people and families to enjoy.

Nursery upgrade and Cumberland Plain improvement project ($5,060,000)

Council will use this funding to deliver three key projects to support its Greening our City program including:

• upgrading Council’s existing nursery to support Council and nSW Government environmental programs. A key feature will be a 280% increase to the growing area from 795 sqm to 2265 sqm to increase plant production.

• expansion of Council’s Bushcare program to include more critical Cumberland Plain Woodland sites, more community events and better education resources.

• installation of a surveillance network to reduce illegal dumping and damage to key open spaces critical to Penrith’s natural environment.

Parker Street Reserve sport and recreation precinct, Penrith ($2,450,000)

Parker Street reserve is a muchloved open space which attracts an estimated 200,000 visitors each year including rugby league, cricket and athletics groups, schools and residents. this funding will complement existing work to transform this precinct into a high-quality sport

and recreation precinct, with the delivery of an upgrade to the existing athletics amenities building to provide storage and accessible toilet facilities, increased car parking, drainage, remediation of playing surfaces, a new and inclusive playspace, and extensive landscaping and tree planting.

Andromeda Oval upgrade, Cranebrook ($1,700,000)

An upgrade of the sports and recreation infrastructure at Andromeda Oval will benefit sports groups, schools and residents who use this facility. this project will include an upgrade to the existing amenities building, improved drainage and playing surfaces for the eastern fields, an upgrade to the multisport courts, and a car park extension.

Bennett Park mixed recreation space, St Marys ($1,500,000)

A new mixed recreation space is being constructed to address a gap in recreation infrastructure in St Marys. Being designed in close consultation with the local community, features of the final design will include skate spaces, a pump track, climbing equipment, a variety of play equipment for all ages, a multi-sport court, social spaces, shade, landscaping, tree planting and more.

the almost $30 million of Westinvest funding secured by Council in October 2022 will be used for two transformational projects – a central park in St Marys and the accelerated delivery of Gipps Street recreation Precinct, a 32-hectare sport and recreation development in Claremont Meadows.

To find out more about these projects, go to:

indoor multi-sports arena: penrith.city/sportsarena

City Park: penrith.city/citypark

21 playspace upgrades: penrith. city/playgrounds

nursery upgrade and Cumberland Plain improvement project: penrith.city/waste-environment/ environment/bushland/currentprojects

Cook Park upgrade, Parker Street reserve sport and recreation precinct, Andromeda Oval upgrade: penrith. city/sports-upgrades

Bennett Park mixed recreation space: penrith.city/facilitiesrecreation/outdoor-recreation

Legends of the Nepean Ted Tokarczyk

By Noel Rowsell

TED Tokarczyk has been a Justice of the Peace (JP) for the past 54 years (1968-2022), an Administration Officer with the NSW Police Force for 45 years (1963-2008), a Returning Officer with the NSW Electoral Office for 31 years (1981-2011), a former National Serviceman (1968-70) and a Vietnam Veteran (1969-70), serving in Saigon in the latter stages of the Vietnam War.

Ted also played Reserve Grade for two years with the Camden Rams in Group 6, with a highlight of reaching the grand final in his first year with the club (1968).

Born in Germany to Polish parents during WW11, Ted moved with his family to Australia in 1950, originally housed in Bathurst, then at Sefton, where he would attend St Josephs, Sefton.

The family subsequently moved to Kemps Creek and Ted would attend Patrician Bros, Fairfield.

Upon leaving school, Ted joined the NSW Police Force in an administrative role, based at the old Police Headquarters in Phillip and Hunter Streets, Sydney. He was then transferred to the District Superintendent’s Office at Parkes. On returning to Sydney in 1966, Ted performed duty at as Personal Assistant to the Divisional Inspector at Liverpool. He was called up for national service in 1968 and, upon returning to duty with the Police, he performed duty in the Superintendent’s Office at Enfield (Mid Western Suburbs District); then Country Area Office, the Metropolitan Area Office and the Office of the Assistant Commissioner (General), all at Police Headquarters. In 1997, when Local Area Commands were established, Ted performed duty as the Local Area Manager at Cabramatta, Macquarie Fields, Queanbeyan,

Ted Tokarczyk

Fairfield, Liverpool, Macquarie Fields, Campbelltown and Auburn.

He attained the highly impressive speeds of 90 words per minute in shorthand and 85 wpm in typing.

During his service with the NSW Police Force, Ted was heavily involved in administration details of the Firearms Amnesty of 1988, including monitoring and recording details of the surrender of firearms, then the subsequent return of firearms following a change of government legislation.

He was also working in Cabramatta during the time of the highly successful Drug Task Force, which swept through the suburbs of SouthWest Sydney to both combat and defeat an ever-growing drug problem in the district.

Ted initially became a JP due to circumstances, due to an ever-growing demand for those services for official paperwork during his employment, and at times a considerable difficulty finding a JP readily available.

Having been sworn in as a JP in 1968, Ted has maintained a constant performance of the role for the next 54 years, including well after his retirement. He received an award from State Member Tanya Davies MP in December, 2022 to mark 50 years service in the role.

Ted works at the Vietnam Veteran’s Association (VVA) in Granville two days per week, where his services as a JP are regularly called upon, and is a Ground Marshall for the Kemps Creek Tigers Soccer Club on weekends during the football season.

Ted Tokarczyk

(Nasho’s)

Ted Tokarczyk and The Hon. Kevin James Stewart

Tanya Davies & Ted Tokarczyk

This week in pictures

Happy volunteers from Rotary Club of Penrith with Stuart Ayres and Senator Marise Payne

Loads of Panthers members and fans braved the heat to turn out for the Sinclair Ford fan day!

Orchard hills Veterinary hOspital

49 Wentworth Road, Orchard Hills

Back to School – Puppy Pre School

By Kellie Tic K ner, Orchard h ills Veterinary hO

WiTh our children heading back to the classroom this week, it is also time to think about enrolling our puppies into school also.

Puppy School classes will teach you about puppy socialisation, dog communication, vet care, pet care, child & dog safety and troubleshooting undesirable behaviour. Over a 5-week period you and your puppy will learn practical information to put you on the path to success.

During the recent COViD pandemic, pet ownership in Australia increased by approximately 10 per cent, with almost 70 per cent of households now owning a pet. This tells us that like their human equivalent, many puppies were isolated and missed attending school. it is time to get our puppies back into the classroom.

Our Puppy Pre School classes are specifically designed for dogs eight to

fourteen weeks of age as this is a very important developmental period for dogs. Through positive reinforcement puppies find that learning is fun and rewards will follow.

Prior to six months of age is the time that puppies start exploring, a time when puppies are very accepting of

new situations and experiences, and learn strategies to cope with situations that may be new or a little frightening. This makes it the perfect time for introducing your puppy to the big wide human world that it is going to live ina world of funny sights (cars, bicycles, balloons, hats, other animals), funny

sounds (horns, thunder, television, lawn mowers, vacuum cleaners) and funny smells (foods, perfumes and cleaning products).

it is also a good time for learning about other puppies – that they come in all shapes and sizes; short, tall, long tails and floppy ears. For some dogs, missing this ‘window of opportunity’ can lead to a life time of fear and anxiety. Even though it is important to continue to expose your dog to as many sights and sounds as possible throughout adolescence, this early period is seen as perhaps the most important.

Our puppy classes aim is to give you realistic expectations of your puppy through the understanding of their natural behaviours. The program equips you with the tools to develop a strong relationship with your puppy, allowing them to become an integral part of the family.

Please contact our friendly team at Orchard hills Veterinary hospital on 4736 2027 for further information.

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

FriEnDS of hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of

KIWI IS WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO PICK HER

these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter. For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

MURPHY NEEDS SOME EXTRA LOVE & CARE

ALEX IS SUCH A HAPPY BOUNCY GUY

Kiwi is a cute, playful kitten and she is ready to pounce into your life! if you can offer sweet Kiwi a home please visit her anytime during open hours..

Cost: $200.35 Age: 8 weeks

Type: Kitten Breed: Domestic Short hair

Sex: Female

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

Murphy is looking for that special family who have lots of patience and heaps of love to share with him as he is still very nervous. if you feel you can give Murphy the special care that he will need please come to the shelter to meet him.

*Murphy is available to meet from 9am tomorrow.

Cost: $424.65 Age: 2 years

Type: Dog Breed: Dachshund

Sex: Male

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

he is a sweet boy who loves playing and being involved in everyday activities. Alex does enjoy his time in the run socialising with the other dogs and playing with toys. he will need a little training to improve on his skills. if you think that Alex is the man for you, please come down to the shelter to meet him.

Cost: $424.65 Age: 1 year

Type: Dog Breed: American Staffordshire

Sex: Male

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

spital a dministratO r

Local school leavers look to their future at tafe Nsw information sessions

School leavers can explore their career options during Information Sessions at TAFE NSW Kingswood this January.

Students considering vocational education and training to start their careers can learn what’s on offer at TAFE NSW Kingswood through virtual and in-person information sessions.

The Information Sessions will explore exciting course areas such as Business, commercial cookery, hospitality, Real Estate and Property Services, Accounting and Finance, and library and Information Services.

Nine out of 10 people will need to study to secure a future job, and TAFE NSW Executive Director Mark hawkins said TAFE NSW was an obvious choice for school leavers and career changers to gain the in-demand skills to achieve their career goals.

“Now is the time for students to invest in their future with the NSW and Federal government investing an additional 120,000 fee-free places in a wide range of priority skills areas including hospitality, Accounting and Finance, hairdressing and Barbering, Early childhood Education and care, health Services and Business,” Mr hawkins said

“our information sessions provide prospective students with a valuable opportunity to connect with industry-expert teachers and explore the practical, hands-on facilities at their local TAFE NSW campus.”

Mr hawkins said attendees of local and virtual information sessions set students up for success with the next steps to turbocharge their careers and transition from school to the workplace by enrolling in one of more than 1,200 courses on offer.

“TAFE NSW students are in high demand because of the quality of their education and ability

to hit the ground running with the job-ready skills employers are looking for,” Mr hawkins said.

“About 85 percent of graduates go on to further study or the workforce after getting the skills they

need to pursue their dreams, proving TAFE NSW is a lifelong learning provider.”

Students can filter via course area or location to register their spot for an information session here: tafensw.edu.au/information-sessions

Using AI to enhance remote patient care

ThE Nepean Blue Mountains local health District (NBMlhD), in a collaboration with the Visual Telehealth lab at the University of Sydney, is trialling the use of artificial intelligence to monitor patients’ vital signs remotely during standard telehealth appointments.

The locally developed AI-based Remote Patient Monitoring System uses video images of a patient’s face to accurately measure their heart rate without the need for any additional devices.

The technology is designed to work with consumer level cameras, like the ones already attached to computers and tablets, and can be further developed to measure additional statistics such as blood pressure, oxygen, pain and anxiety levels.

Professor Jinman Kim of the Telehealth and Technology centre at Nepean hospital says that developments in AI are the latest frontier in advancing remote patient care, aiming to replace more inconvenient and potentially less accurate methods of remote patient monitoring, such as blood pressure cuffs and wearable sensors.

“For a long time, we’ve been focused on how to make video conferencing easier and more widely available, but that problem has now largely been solved,” says Professor Kim.

“Now we’re looking at how to maximise information from videos to improve the range and quality of remote patient care.”

While similar technology is beginning to take hold internationally, the system being developed at Nepean hospital is uniquely localised to suit specific patient cohorts.

“The use of facial expression to measure things like anxiety is well documented but we are particularly interested in measuring heart rate and our focus on cardiology is quite

unique,” says Professor Kim.

By narrowing the scope of the project very specifically, the team can optimise the AI for accurate use in cardiology while maintaining the highest possible standard of data security, preserving patient privacy.

The technology is a form of photoplethysmography, which uses light to monitor blood flow changes under the skin and thereby measure cardiovascular activity signals.

The new AI-based Remote Patient Monitoring System adapts these

techniques to interpret the light signals that render video images of human faces, automating and improving aspects of patient monitoring over the course of a normal video consultation.

So far, the technology has been trialled successfully on public data sets. Now with full ethics approval it is entering a clinical trial in partnership with the NBMlhD’s cardiology department.

“This technology provides an opportunity to further simplify the requirements for patients,” says Professor Kim.

“It’s a true, multidisciplinary effort between computer scientists and health experts and a great example of what good collaboration can achieve.”

“My vision is that every telehealth appointment will produce additional, reliable health information that is completely free and doesn’t involve asking the patient to do anything extra,” says Professor Kim.

AI technology analyses facial features during a telehealth consultation

As well as acting on the conveyance of property in NSW, we also act for NSW residents who wish to purchase or sell property in Victoria, ACT and Queensland

Solicitor Director: Joseph M Grassi Dip Law (SAB) LLM Accredited Specialist Property Law Notary Public Solicitor: Grant Wiblin LLB, BSocSc, GDipLegalPrac Licensed

The G SpoT

Happy 2023 and Happy New year! Would you believe that it is ten years since I started the G Spot with Nepean News? Nothing has excited me more than sharing all of my gory, dull, disgusting, thought-provoking and pure examples of being a boofhead stories with you during that time.

I have covered stories about cats, dogs, navel hair, boneheads, and body gas (as a matter of fact, while typing this, I got an email from a company called natural health sherpa with the title “Rancid Farts” ) must be the universe talking to me? With the email body saying “having constipation issues? you must have a digestive system issue. Eliminate gas for good.” all I can say is that I was glad I was not eating dinner as the email continued to go downhill, but it ended with “have a nice day!” I am pretty sure that if you have all these medical issues, a good day is not what you would have.

yes, my avid fans, I have covered it all, from discodancing boneheads to laying in your own vomit after a great night out with mates and thinking the bottom of the toilet bowl is your best friend.

I have even suggested the music list at 18th

Love is in the air

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

Birthday parties if you wanted someone taken out. The song ‘Everybody was Kung Fu fighting’ is the one to play. particularly when everyone has a gut full of grog and about 16 hours of drinking in them; a great way to get the place cleared and probably damaged as well. ah, who needs a toilet door?

If the party is at home and you want a free reno, tell the insurance company it was the mouse plague that ripped 17 doors off and demolished the kitchen and laundry, not 86 year old Uncle John trying to roundkick everyone and pulling a hamstring in the process.

Some may know that the G-spot does get around, and now I am on the radio. yes, I know you are gasping for air and perhaps spitting out your coffee… or in your coffee (whatever tickles your fancy). I am on My88 FM every Thursday at 12.30 and 7.30pm each week. So, if you can’t get enough of just reading my stories, you can also listen to the crap I come up with on the radio.

Insert imaginary noise: the crowd goes wild. you can go online at www.my88.com.au or iheart radio – you can hear my wonderful dulcet tones (my voice sounds like a wet screaming cat with an artery

blockage somewhere in a rare bodily place).

I have also given money-saving advice, like sticking 78 family members in one caravan on holidays and not showering for 16 days at a caravan park. (can easily save up to $10 on that) in the nonpeak season, of course! Or sending your 93-yearold Gran into shops to use her pension card for your grocery shopping. Disclaimer, this may all be slightly illegal. However, this is opinion-based only. Don’t come looking for me if you get arrested.

I have given seating advice at weddings, parties and funerals; remember to seat your most hated family member near the portaloo (after being left in the sun for at least three weeks and not emptied), then they will leave first, works every time. Unless they smell worse than the portaloo, you may have to devise a strategic plan and mitigation process on that one.

So, my friends, haters, and fans, I am here for 2023 to write about mindless crap that really doesn’t serve much purpose at all; however, hopefully, is entertaining reading for you. Big air kisses and virtual hugs to you all!

Congratulations on your engagement Verginee & Blake!

Verginee Gloster, daughter of Eric & Esme Gloster of Creston British Columbia Canada and Blake Brookes, youngest son of Stephen & Donna Brookes of Mt Riverview are tying the knot.

On a trip to Alberta, Canada, Blake got down on one knee on frozen Lake Louise to propose to the girl of his dreams and Verginee said yes!

Wishing you lifelong happiness together from your very proud parents.

First Nations hip hop stars to shine bright at Penrith

For one night only, Ngana Birrung, (Dharug for ‘black stars’) will showcase some of Australia’s best First Nations hip hop musicians at a free concert on 18 February, 6pm-10pm at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith.

Headlining Ngana Birrung is JK47 (Jacob Paulson), an Indigenous Australian rapper, musician, and activist. JK-47 will be joined by special guests A.GIrL and supported by Prodikal-1 and Keely. Ngana Birrung is presented by City of Parramatta in association with Penrith City Council, Penrith Performing and Visual Arts and Campbelltown City Council. Ngana Birrung (pronounced Nin-Gahna, Bir-rung) is an initiative of City of Parramatta to elevate First Nations artists and bring together some of the best talent in the country. The event series is supported by the

Museums unite for Australia Day

By Noel Rowsell

THe Arms of Australia Inn museum site at emu Plains was open on Australia Day, with free admission for the day. The volunteers from Penrith Museum of Printing spent a marvellous day, working onsite at the Inn, showing how newspapers, and printing, was done in colonial days.

The Arms of Australia Inn is an old staging post for stagecoaches in colonial days, where stage coaches would stop, before crossing the Blue Mountains. It is now set up as a colonial museum.

The Arms of Australia Inn was set out with a large variety of historical exhibitors, in addition to the Inn’s own wonderful Museum display.

A very large number of visitors passed through the Museum during the day, which was a sunny, and

visitors kept on coming.

The Penrith Museum of Printing set up a small working print shop of the 1800’s and had volunteers operating a PeArL treadle printing press, printing WANTeD posters for the kids.

There was also had a compositor (type-setter) working, setting up old lead type, in the children’s names, for printing onto popular WANTeD posters.

The type, once set up and locked, ready for printing, was then passed to a press operator, who was working on an ADANA hand-operated printing press.

He would then print the set-up child’s name onto their very own WANTeD poster.

The children all loved the experience, of seeing their name set in lead “upside Down”, and then, when printed, miraculously printed ‘right side up’.

NSW Government through Create NSW.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said she is delighted to see Ngana Birrung hosted at Penrith for the first time, giving locals a chance to experience some of Australia’s best hip hop musicians.

“Ngana Birrung promises to be a showcase of some of the most talented First Nations hip hop artists we have right here in Australia. I encourage the Penrith community to make the most of this opportunity,” Cr Hitchen said.

The Ngana Birrung concert series concludes at Penrith on 18 February 6pm-10pm at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, preceded by concerts at Campbelltown Arts Centre (15 February) and rosehill Bowling Club (17 February).

Bookings are essential, for more information and to register for your free ticket go to penrith.city/events

very hot, but still the

Jon Berry working on the PEARL printing machine. Photo supplied.

Richard Bonynge Ensemble auditions now open

ApplicAtions for auditions for young musicians aged 1725, Grade 8 (or equivalent) to join the Richard Bonynge Ensemble (RBE) are now open.

Comprised of some of the finest young talents in penrith, including from the penrith conservatorium and penrith Youth orchestra, the Ensemble gives serious and skilled early career musicians the opportunity to work with industry professionals through workshops and mentoring sessions, as well as to collaborate with professional chamber ensembles to develop their performance and musicianship skills.

Established in 2021, the Richard Bonynge Ensemble aims to enrich the community through music. the Ensemble performs a wide variety of repertoire, from well-known pieces, long forgotten pieces that deserve revival as well as new works from local emerging composers.

in 2023, RBE is thrilled to partner with one of Australia’s leading chamber music groups, omega Ensemble. together they will commission a piece by Brenda Gifford, a Yuin classical composer, saxophonist and pianist, which will be performed at the Joan in August this year.

Audition application: www.penrithconservatorium.com.au/ensembles/richard-bonynge-ensemble/richardbonynge-ensemble-auditions/

Richard Bonynge Ensemble: www.penrithconservatorium.com.au/ensembles/richard-bonynge-ensemble/

Are you coming to our Senior comedy gAlA?

We’re joining comedians Tommy Dean, Chris Ryan, Bruce Griffiths and Umit Bali on Tuesday 7 February from 10.30am at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre for a great morning of laughs! Why not arrive early and join us for morning tea at 9.45am and meet your fellow comedy lovers! Tickets are FREE, but bookings are ESSENTIAL to secure your spot!

Secure your place by calling The Joan on 4723 7600 or checking the @penrithcitycouncil website to register online.

calling all creatives, stallholders and food vendors - Penrith Producers is back in 2023!

Penrith Producers returns with a series of four events in 2023 featuring culinary delights, local makers, live music, workshops and more. We are expanding the annual Triangle Park event with road closures along Riley Street and High Street in the Penrith City Centre to showcase more of our local talent, creatives and makers. Would you like to join? Send through your Expression of Interest via https://bit.ly/3He8tud and complete by Monday 20 February, 11.59pm.

Penrith Producers will be held on the following dates:

• Friday 31 March, 5pm-9pm

• Friday 23 June, 5pm-9pm

• Friday 29 September, 5pm-9pm

• Friday 1 December, 5pm-9pm

satisfy your tastes.

INSTRUCTIONS

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

CROSS WORD

ACROSS

8 Rant (4)

9 20 (5)

10 Press laundry (4)

11 Riches (6)

12 Threshold (8)

13 Not broadly (8)

15 Wry (6)

17 A pendant earring (7)

19 Normal (7)

22 City in Saskatchewan (6)

24 An instillment (8)

26 Fluttering (8)

28 In a courteous manner (6)

30 An alliance of countries (4)

31 At the ends of fingers (5)

32 Wander (4)

dOwn

1 Used to tie a shoe (4)

2 Of good upbringing (8)

3 Shun (6)

4 Farewell (7)

5 Speed (8)

6 Debacle (6)

7 Where the heart is (4)

14 Memorable saying (5)

16 A Rocky Mountain state (5)

18 Speeches (8)

20 Unsafe (8)

21 The most important person in a group (7)

23 A forceful consequence (6)

25 Complete (6)

27 Letup (4)

29 Sixty-six in Roman numerals (4)

A St Marys Tragedy

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

In 1908 a blushing bride named Emily Frances Luke married a dashing groom by the name of Albert Henry Stonestreet at the All Saints Church in Silverdale. Emily, born at Mamre in 1886 was the daughter of Elizabeth Ann Delaney (Luke) and Elizabeth’s first husband Robert Luke. Albert, born in 1882 was the son of James and Elizabeth Stonestreet (Walker). Albert and Emily had four children, the last one Albert Joseph was born in 1913. In January 1914 Emily, accompanied by her mother Elizabeth went into St Marys to register Albert Joseph at St Marys police station and about 6pm they started for home with her brother who drove the sulky and while Emily nursed her son Robert James who was born in 1912 her mother held Albert Joseph and about two miles along the Mamre Road Emily suddenly said to her mother that she was on fire and burning to death. She quickly handed Robert to her brother and her mother jumped out of the sulky with Albert Joseph and Emily stood up in the sulky and as soon as she did flames went up over her head and she jumped from the sulky and ran around. Her brother took off his coat and tried to put out the fire putting his coat around her and beating the flames but to no avail. Just then Mrs Baker and Mr Lambert came up in their vehicle and Mr Lambert did what he could with Emily laying down on the ground. Her mother rolled the sulky rug around her with assistance from the others and more people came up at that time but they could do nothing because all her clothing was burned off her. The whole thing happened so suddenly and quickly, Emily was wearing a thin print dress and flannelette petticoat and the bottom part of her dress caught alight first, then when she stood up the whole of her clothing burst into flames. The sulky caught on fire and the groceries were destroyed and her brother’s hand was also very burnt. Elizabeth said at the inquest at Penrith Court House that she did not know whether her son was smoking or not. He had a few drinks in St Marys but he was not drunk and was quite able to drive. On the way out of St Marys they were laughing and talking as they drove along when suddenly this occurrence happened and she could not say how the fire started or what caused it. She mentioned that Emily’s life was not insured and she possessed no property apart from her interest in the property Elizabeth lived on. next at the inquest Samuel Henry Luke said that he was a labourer and lived with his parents on Mamre Road and that Mrs Delaney was his mother and Emily Stonestreet was his sister. He remembered before leaving

St Marys about 6 pm he had two or three glasses of beer but that it was not sufficient to affect him and he was perfectly sober. When he got up in the sulky he was smoking and continued to for a distance along the road but said that he did not light a match after he got into the sulky. When they were about two miles along the road Emily called out that she was on fire and handed Robert to him and he got out on the opposite side and let the horse go and took off his coat and tried to put out the flames. His sister ran around for a moment and then laid down on the ground while we dragged the burning clothing off her. He said that the fire only lasted a few seconds and the clothing burned so easily and quickly that he got his hands and arm severely burnt trying to help put out the fire and his hands were very bad now and he would not be able to use them for at least another fortnight. He confirmed that he was not smoking when his sister called out she was on fire and that he had put the pipe in his pocket about a quarter of an hour before and they were travelling very slowly being about half an hour on the road. He said that the day had been a terribly hot one with a strong wind blowing. As soon as possible, Mrs Baker went to St Marys to contact Dr Bell who came and attended to his sister and ordered her immediate removal to the nepean Cottage Hospital. Mr Lambert and Emily’s brother took her quickly to the hospital where she was admitted and treated but she died. Constable John Joseph Walsh said at the inquest that he was stationed at St Marys when Emily Stonestreet called at the St Marys Police Station and filled in a form for registration of a birth at about 5pm and that she was dressed in extremely light dress material with the day being exceptionally hot with strong wind blowing and he knew nothing of the particulars of Emily’s death only when he had heard from the eye-witnesses. The whole thing seemed to have occurred so suddenly and quickly from a spark from the pipe of her brother that would account for the fire and fanned into flame by the strong wind blowing. He said that Emily appeared very delicate when he saw her. The finding from the Coroner at the inquest was that “Emily Frances Stonestreet at the Nepean Cottage Hospital in Penrith on the 10th January 1914 died from shock, the result of burns accidentally received on the same day at St Marys caused by a spark from the pipe of her brother.” Emily is buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery along with her husband Albert Henry Stonestreet who died in 1963 at nepean District Hospital.

 Photo of their grave at St Mary Magdalene cemetery - taken by me 2008.

Panthers launch into NBL1 East in 2023

By Noel rowS ell

BASkeTBALL NSW has announced the Coles express NBL1 east will expand to a 16-club competition in 2023, with a total of 32-teams competing across the women’s and men’s competitions, after awarding licenses to the Sydney Comets, Basketball Australia’s Centre of excellence (Coe), Penrith Panthers and the Hornsby ku-ring-gai Spiders.

The decision marks a return to senior representative basketball for the Penrith & Districts Basketball Association, having entered both a Men’s and Women’s team in this year’s competition.

There is a rather unique feature to the Panthers squads, which contain 1 set of twins (brothers) and 2 sets of sisters. To add to the family connections, the Williams’ sisters (Abbi and Chloe) have a brother (Blair) playing in the Panthers Men’s team.

“My siblings and I have been playing at Penrith since under 12s so to get the opportunity to be a part of Penrith’s first NBL1 teams is very exciting, let alone to be doing it with your siblings by your side to experience it with,” said Abbi Williams.

“Blair has been competing in the

men’s Youth League team the last few years and has won 2 championships with the team. He is looking forward to the year ahead in the new league and the challenges that may come along the way.

“This is also the first time Chloe and I will be playing side by side. I have either been coaching Chloe through junior local competitions or cheering from the sidelines through her success, so this will be great for us and the team to be on the court together. We have a really diverse group this year, which will be a great strength for us

through out the season I believe. The three of us are looking forward to the season ahead with both the men’s and the women’s teams.”

Penrith’s women’s squad has two veterans in Frances Peters and Brooke McInnes, with Frances playing as a junior through her developing years before being signed, as a teenager, to play for the Sydney Flames in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) competition in the 1990’s.

There is a lot of water under the bridge over the near 30-year gap but Frances has kept herself extremely fit

and will be a fabulous mentor for the young Panthers squad.

Penrith opens the season with away games to the Sydney Comets on 11th March and will in fact play their opening 7 games of the season away from home. The two Penrith teams first home games at the Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre will be on 23rd April, hosting the Canberra Gunners (men) and Canberra Nationals (women).

The full list of teams in the NBL1 east program are Albury/ Wodonga Bandits, Bankstown Bruins, Basketball Australia Centre of excellence (Coe), Canberra Gunners / Nationals, Central Coast Crusaders, Hills District Hornets, Hornsby kuring-gai Spiders, Illawarra Hawks, Inner West Bulls, Maitland Mustangs, Manly Warringah Sea eagles, Newcastle Falcons, Penrith Panthers, Sutherland Sharks, Norths Bears, Sydney Comets.

Penrith Basketball welcomes two Penrith businesses - Core9 (Strength and Conditioning) and Penrith Physiotherapy Sports Centre for athlete injury prevention and management - as sponsors for the Association’s inaugural season in the NBL1 east 2023 season.

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Negative and positive gearing explained

In the financial world, we use the term ‘gearing’ when we borrow money to invest and it’s very typically talked about in the context of investing in property. Gearing is leverage or simply borrowing money. A property is going to be either positively or negatively geared depending on the amount we’ve borrowed, the interest rate we’re being charged, the associated costs of property ownership, and the rental income we’re receiving.

A property is positively geared when the rental return (the money you receive from your tenants) is higher than your mortgage repayments and all the other property-related expenses (e.g. insurance, strata, council rates). On the other hand, the property is negatively geared when your rental income is less than your interest repayments and those propertyrelated expenses.

“So, therefore, buying a positively geared investment property must be the best way to go?”

Well, funny you should say that because that’s not entirely correct. Let me unpack this.

Positively geared property

The income you get from a positively geared property can put more money into your pocket and at an initial glance it can make you feel more confident

that you are going to make all your loan repayments and possibly have money remaining. But keep in mind that if your property is positively geared the net rental income will still be subject to income tax and it might put you into a higher tax bracket.

Negative gearing benefits and considerations

The key benefit of negative gearing is that any net rental loss you incur during the financial year may be offset against other income you earn, such as your salary. This in turn can then reduce your taxable income and ultimately how much income tax you have to pay.

Expenses you can claim as tax deductions

If the property is rented out, as a general rule, you can claim the interest bill of your loan repayments, the other rental expenses and any allowable depreciation of the building the contents can be claimed as tax deductions. These rental expenses cover things like insurance, management fees, legal costs, council rates, and maintenance.

Capital Gains Tax

Just like you’ll pay tax if you earn rental income from your investment property, you’ll also pay tax on any profit you make when you eventually sell this investment property. When you make money from selling your investment property, your profit is referred to as a capital gain and the tax on this amount is called capital gains tax (commonly abbreviated to CGT).

How much CGT you pay will depend on a few factors. But with your fabulous accountant by your side the entire way through your investment journey, you’ll be well prepared. If you sell at a profit after owning the property for more than a year, the tax office will, under normal circumstances give you a 50% discount on your CGT.

Positive or negative gearing – which option is best for you?

You shouldn’t decide which is right for you just from reading this article. And it’s also not a decision to be made after a chat on a Sunday afternoon BBQ with that well-meaning friend.

Positive and negative gearing strategies both have benefits and drawbacks, and it’s going to change over time and depend on your personal circumstances, current income, debts, and what your risk preferences might be at that moment in time. To find out more about what you can and can’t claim on a rental property you’ll need to involve your accountant, financial advisor, and your lovely mortgage broker who specialises in property for personalised advice. Clever investors also know that their portfolio will need to be reviewed over the years.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

Siblings unite in Panthers NBL1 East Men’s and Women’s teams (L-R) Jaedyn Fetui-Fa’amoe, Abbi Williams, Blair Williams, Chloe Williams, Caleb Fetui-Fa’amoe, Sienna Petterson. Missing from pic: Tiana Petterson

Two-time Olympian Myriam Fox-Jerusalmi Champions Women in Sport

The Olympics has just launched a series highlighting the role of women coaches - and who better to kick the series off than Penrith’s very own Miriam Fox Jerusalmi - an outstanding coach and incredible athlete, who just happens to also be the mother of two of our most successful female paddlers, Jessica and Noemie Fox.

Whilst great strides have been made to balance the number of male and female athletes participating in the Olympic Games, the number of female coaches at elite level remains remarkably low. This new series will highlight the various initiatives taken by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to tackle this important issue and share the journeys of inspirational women coaches who are beating the odds and proving that ‘if she believes it, she can be it’.

In the first article of the series, the IOC speaks to the canoe coach and

two-time Olympian, Myriam FoxJerusalmi, who has called for more female coaches at elite level, reminding women there is a “door open for them” to become coaches.

Last December, Myriam was honoured with an IOC Coaches Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognises coaches who have dedicated their lives to their athletes. Myriam has done just that and gone above and beyond. After representing France in K1 at Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996, where she won bronze, Myriam has gone on to create a successful coaching career over the past 25 years. On top of helping her daughter Jessica to win 12 world titles and four Olympic medals, she’s been instrumental in helping to develop the women’s canoe slalom Olympic program and achieve gender equality.

Myriam welcomed the visibility that the Lifetime Achievement Award had brought to Australia and to canoeing, adding it showed that women could become Olympic coaches too. “Maybe now it shows that it’s possible and there’s recognition for the coaching

Lilliana Turner wins Bronze Medal at National Indoor Hockey Championships

By Noel Rowsell

The Under 15 age groups rounded out the Australian Indoor hockey Championships, which were held in Brisbane through the month of January.

Nepean hockey Association representative Lilliana Turner played for NSW State, winning a Bronze medal.

NSW State defeated NSW Blues 4-2, VIC 4-2, lost 3-4 to QLD Gold, won 8-0 over WA (QF), lost 1-7 to QLD Maroon (SF) then defeated QLD Gold 4-1 to claim the Bronze medal.

job, because there’s not enough women coaching around the globe,” she said.

Despite this, it has been hard to increase the number of highperformance women coaches, and progress has been slow. In the last decade, women accounted for just 10 per cent of all coaches accredited at the Summer and Winter Games, a figure that rose to 13 per cent for Tokyo 2020. The IOC established a Women Coach Working Group in 2020 to increase the number of women coaches and alleviate the shortage.

Meanwhile, the IOC’s bespoke four-year Women in Sport highPerformance Pathway Program (WISh) has been steadily gaining momentum. Backed by USD$1M Olympic Solidarity funding, the program will prepare over 100 women for coaching at elite level.

To date, 66 female coaches from 14 sports have already immersed themselves in activities designed to further develop their leadership skills, confidence and careers. All have demonstrated a desire and potential to

reach the highest level of coaching.

“To the participants of the WISh program or even to the women that want to get into coaching and can’t be in that program, follow your dream, and be persistent in what you want to do,” Myriam said.

“Try to get educated and try to gain experience to be able to reach your goal.”

In spite of this progress, however, the lack of women coaches stands out. That is why it is an important part of the IOC’s work-plan for 2021 to 2024, which focuses on five key areas: participation, safe sport, portrayal, resource allocation, and leadership, and clearly sets out the objective of increasing the number of women coaches across all Olympic sports.

“I’m the lucky one, because I think there are a lot of coaches around the world that also deserve this award,” Myriam said. “The more women we have, the more women think they can go into these jobs and it’s okay to be a coach, because there’s a door open for them to become a coach.”

By Noel Rowsell

Myriam Fox. Photos courtesy of Paddle NSW, Planet Canoe and Noel Rowsell.

Lilliana Turner in action as goalkeeper in a game for NSW State. Photo supplied by Click InFocus.

Dunheved GC hosts South Creek Cup

By Noel Rowsell

DunheveD GC hosted the annual South Creek Cup on Saturday 28th January, with 225 golfers teeing off on the day.

Spectacular summer weather conditions ensured competitors could appreciate the magnificent course, which has been under water on four occasions in the past 2 years due to floods.

The Green-keeping staff have proved up to the challenge, presenting the course on Saturday at its best, as befitting a Vardon event.

Michael Williams (Moore Park GC) shot a 4-under par 68 to win the Cup, 3 shots clear of Damion Miller on 71.

Adam Jaramillo (Dunheved GC) captured the Captain’s Cup (Best nett) with a score of 68, 1 shot ahead of Steve Andrews (Dunheved GC) on 69.

Coby Carruthers (Dunheved) won the John Fearnley Cup (Best Junior under 18) on 74, whilst

Local golfers contest NSW Medal and Amateur Championships

By Noel Rowsell

The 2023 nSW Men’s Medal was played over 36 holes at Ryde-Parramatta and Pennant hills last week, with the leading 32 Men at the end of the second round progressing to the nSW Amateur Match-Play Championship.

A total of 15 men from western Sydney golf clubs entered the Medal, with Blade Gadd (Penrith GC), Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC), Kade Webber (Stonecutters Ridge GC) and Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) all initially qualifying in the top 36.

Will hoven (Glenmore heritage valley GC) was desperately unlucky to miss qualifying, finishing just one shot off the cut line at 146.

Darcy would subsequently be eliminated in a playoff among a group of 10 players all locked together in 32nd place, with Jye halls the lucky (and only) player to qualify from that group.

Chris Fan (Avondale GC) defeated Lincoln Morgan (Royal Queensland GC) to win the nSW Medal on the first playoff hole.

Kade had a 4&3 win over Blade in the Round of 32 of the Amateur Championship, whilst Coby lost 1-down to Adam Tsiamis (The Metropolitan GC, vic).

Kade then defeated Jeff Pullen (St Michaels GC) at the 20th hole in the round of 16, before falling 2&1 to 2022 Champion and eventual 2023 runnerup harrison Crowe (St Michaels) in the quarter finals.

Abel eduard (Kingston heath GC, vic) would go on to win the title, defeating harrison 3&1 in the Final.

The 2023 nSW Women’s Stroke Play was also played over 36 holes last week, hosted at RydeParramatta and Pennant hills respectively, and featured 5 players from western Sydney.

Local star Grace Lee (Glenmore Park / Concord GC) had a poor opening round of 79 but out-classed the field on Day 2, shooting the low score of the day (68) to finish at Even par in the Stroke-Play event.

Grace’s hot second round ensured she would

be one of the 16 Women to progress to the nSW Amateur Championship.

haruhi nakatani (Surfers Paradise GC) was the winner of the Stroke-Play Championship.

Grace lost her opening match-play in the round of 16, falling 4&3 to eventual 2023 runner-up Godiva Kim (Coolangatta Tweed heads GC). Godiva ultimately lost 4&3 to 2022 runner-up Shyla Singh (Southport GC, Qld) in this year’s Final.

Major Pennant Tees Off for 2023

By Noel Rowsell

The 2023 Men’s and Women’s Major Pennant competitions teed off on Sunday, with nine western Sydney golf clubs competing this year in the Men’s divisions and one club in Division 1 Women.

It would prove to be a great opening round for the

district, with 6 wins from 7 games.

The results for the round were as follows, with each home team listed first.

Men: Division 1 - Lynwood CC 4.5-2.5 over Penrith GC; Division 2 - Stonecutters Ridge GC 4.52.5 over Twin Creeks GC, Dunheved GC 5.5-1.5 over Cumberland CC, Division 3 - Springwood CC 6-1 over Marrickville GC, Richmond GC 5-2 over

Cabramatta GC, Wallacia CC 4-3 over Randwick GC; Division 4 - Glenmore heritage valley GC 5.5-1.5 over Bexley GC; Division 5 - Leonay GC v Kareela GC (not played - new draw being issued).

WOMen: Division 1 - Bonnie Doon GC v Stonecutters Ridge GC (Result not to hand)

The same teams will each meet up again in Round 2, at the alternate venue.

Zachary Shaw (Dunheved) won the Colt prize (1824 years) on 96.

Grade winners were: A Grade - Andrew

Carruthers (Dunheved) 70, B Grade - Chris Bonnici (Dunheved) 70, C Grade - Adam Wylie (Dunheved) 70 c/b, C2 Grade - Shaun hinks (70).

Action from the 2023 South Creek Cup - photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) in action during the NSW Medal. Photo courtesy of Golf NSW.

Liam Martin re-signs with Panthers

By Panthers Media

Penrith Panthers is pleased to announce the re-signing of representative forward Liam Martin until the end of the 2024 nrL season.

Already contracted with the Panthers for the 2023 campaign, Martin has extended his deal with the club for a further season.

hailing from temora, Martin joined the Panthers in 2015 and progressed from the club’s SG Ball side into a two-time premiership winner and international representative.

having made his nrL debut in 2019, the 25-year-old forward has played 86 first grade games, as well as six State of Origin matches for New South Wales and five Tests for Australia –including the triumphant World Cup final.

“it means the world to me to re-sign with the Panthers. This club gave me my first opportunity when i was 17 and it’s become a second home for me,” Martin said.

“i’m really happy to be staying here and i’m really excited for the future at the club and what we can build on following what we’ve already accomplished.”

Panthers rugby League CeO Matt Cameron shared his delight following Martin’s contract extension.

“Liam embodies the qualities we value at our club seen through his determination, courage and a relentless drive to succeed,” Cameron said.

“Liam has come through our junior development system and has progressed to the highest level of playing for his state and country.

“We look forward to continuing discussions with Liam’s management about future seasons now that the salary cap position has been ratified by the NRL as part of the ongoing CBA negotiations.

“We are thrilled to see him commit to the club and look forward to his growth as he continues his rugby league journey in Panthers colours.”

2023 Panthers junior representative squads

Penrith Panthers has confirmed its squads for the 2023 Harold Matthews Cup, SG Ball Cup and Tarsha Gale Cup competitions, as well as the Emerging Panthers.

By Panthers Media

The new season kicks-off on Sunday with all three grades facing Illawarra Steelers at WIN Stadium, Wollongong.

SG BALL CUP

Ahmani Leilua, Bayden Moran, Billy Phillips, Billy Thompson, Cooper Ferrari, David Afu, Del Wigmore, ethan hutchings, Frances Manulelua, hudson Brown, Jack ewer, Jakeb Vailalo, Jenson Tuaoi, Jett Cleary, Jirah Liddiard, Judah Galuvao, Karlos Kavapalu, Luke hanson, Luron Patea, Moustafa Dirani, Nick Murphy, Poutoua Papalii, Riley Pollard, Semisi Faasisila, Siotame hansen, Tana Papu, Timothy Sielaff-Burns, Wilson De Courcey, Yehya Ayache

Coach: Scott Thompson

HAROLD MATTHEWS CUP

Cameron Bamblett, Casey McLean, Charbel Kheirallah, Cooper hale, Danny Johnstone, harrison Bull, heinz Lemoto, hokafonu Lemoto, hunter Bell, Jack Attard, Jackson Mcbain, Jacob Kelly, Jaxen edgar, Jayden Carter, Jhett Sydir, Joseph Partch, Kenneth King, Kye Raven, Latrell Toby-Smith, Marcellus Iakopo, Massimo Maestrale, Nathaniel Tolu, Ollie Seu, Riley Allan, Roman Tuaimau, Tanner Crook, Tua Patea, Tyson Kunkel

Coach: Kyle Churchill

Bella Mceachern, Charlotte Gray, Cherish Tseros, Christine Sims, Clarissa Alderton, Georgia Cole, harmony Siafolau, Ila Fuimaono, Jaida Staben, Jemimah Tagaloamatua, Kirby Maslin, Mackenzie Doust, Marley Cardwell, Molly Mamo, Montana Clifford, Montanna McLean, Natalie Vaka, Piper Spackman, Summer Jitoko, Sylvana Siitia, Taliyah Vaalele, Taya Lazare, Taylor Keppie, Yasmine Baker, Zharia hukui

Coach: Darren Baker

EMERGING PANTHERS SQUAD

Alexander Pupualii, Asa Visesio, Boston Lauvao, Caleb Wright, Cedric Peti, Christian TaupauMoors, Christopher Petrus, Coby Raven, Cornelius Pupualii, Cruz Luke-Culshaw, Dean Partch, Isaiah Wynbergen-Titoko, Joser Pomale, Kingston Siracusa, Kordell Pritchard, Lachlan Wraight, LeoStipe Latu, Lino BJ Tamaseu, Senetenari Sene-Lefaoseu, Talmage Brown, Tyrone Moeroa, Zhaoquin Tupulua

Coach: Shanan Wood & Alan Eisenhuth

Receive 1 ticket for every $10 spent at Panthers Penrith*

TARSHA GALE CUP