ROAR FOR FOUR! THE MIGHTY PANTHERS
‘New identity’: The annual rebuild driving Panthers to a four-peat
When the Panthers turn up for training at the start of each preseason, they are told to forget about the premiership they won the year before because it’s a new group of players and a new team.
BY BRAD WALTER NRL SENIOR REPORTER
HISTORY suggests it is easier said than done because Penrith became the first club since the Broncos of 1992-93 to win back-to-back premierships in 2021-22 and last year achieved the first three peat since the Eels in 1981-82-83.
Yet hooker Mitch Kenny suggested the high turnover of stars after each premiership win may help the Panthers to remain hungry as there are always newcomers to the team who are yet to taste success.
“We’ve obviously had a turnover of two to three really important guys in our team each year, which changes the whole dynamic of the side,” Kenny said ahead of Saturday night’s preliminary final against the Sharks at Accor Stadium.
“I think a lot of people look at Penrith as like this one rolling ball, but for us we start each season trying to forget about the last one and rebuild from the ground up again.
“It’s an altogether new team and this is an altogether new challenge, and we just try to treat it that way.”
A Windsor Wolves junior, Kenny didn’t play in Penrith’s junior representative teams until under 18s but his work ethic and determination to get the best out of himself impressed enough for him to become Jersey Flegg captain in 2018.
With Brian To’o in his team, Kenny led the Panthers to the grand final, where they were beaten by a Cronulla outfit which included Braydon Trindall and Teig Wilton.
“A lot of people in this squad know what it’s like to lose a grand final, or know what it’s like to not play finals,”
Kenny said.
“ “
We do that with new players and new teams and new styles of play - sort of like a new identity.
Kenny did not play in the 2021 grand final win against South Sydney, was deputy to Api Koroisau in 2022 and took over the hooking role last season.
Centre Izack Tago was also a member of Penrith’s premiership winning teams in 2022 and 2023, whilst winger Sunia Turuva, second-
rower Luke Garner and interchange forward Lindsay Smith played in last year’s grand final.
“We don’t see ourselves as the team from last year trying to defend the premiership, we see ourselves as a new team trying to go out and win this one,” Kenny said.
“We have got guys in our side now like Liam Henry, Brad Schneider and Paul Alamoti who haven’t played finals before, so there’s guys who this is a completely new experience for and there’s guys who might be starting who didn’t start in the team last year.
“I can tell you playing finals and winning a grand final is a lot better than not doing it, so if we’re putting ourselves in a position like this, we might as well go all the way.
“A lot of us are still quite young and feel like we have got a lot of development left in us and by no means are sort of like at our peak or have exhausted all our footy abilities.
“We are just trying to be the best versions of ourselves, and there’s also other motivating factors, like you want your mates who haven’t won a comp who are in the team now to experience that as well.”
PANTHERS GETTING TO KNOW YOUR
The
IT is really quite astonishing to say out loud that Penrith will be playing in their fifth grand final in a row, whilst also trying to win their fourth consecutive!
We are witnessing a truly extraordinary rugby league team, folks.
With the much-documented assembly line of star players vanishing from the playing squad since the first Grand Final of this run back in 2020, and every year since, it makes the accomplishment even more mind-blowing.
To win one competition in the current climate of
Penrith Panthers
heavily scrutinised salary cap auditing is hard enough, but to be on the cusp of a fourth straight is down right outrageous.
Bravo Ivan, bravo to the recruitment team, bravo to the staff that don’t get the accolades, but are just as much part of this team as the players. Bravo to the sponsors, bravo to the board, bravo to the fans, and last but by no means least, bravo to the Penrith Panthers players who for the past 5 seasons in particular have worn the mighty Panther jersey with utter distinction.
There are so many story lines with the two best teams of 2024 facing a showdown this Sunday.
Storylines that could decide one way or another the outcome of the contest.
Could it be the battle of the big men up front?
Could it be the battle of the speedy outside backs?
Could it be a battle between the two best 6’s and 7’s ( Cleary/Luai & Hughes/Munster) in the comp?
Could it be a battle of minds from the two men sitting 80 metres away in the coaches box?
It could be all of thoses things. When you really dissect these two formidable outfits it is near impossible to say that either team cannot win this game.
WITH MARK GEYER
MARK ON THE
WITH MARK GEYER
enter the stratosphere
Both teams have so many game breakers and both teams are also hovering around the $1.90 mark to win it.
This will be the first time in the past 5 grand finals that Penrith won’t have the luxury of picking their playing strip. Because the Storm finished with the minor premiership they get first dibs. They’ll play in all purple whilst Penrith will more than likely don the pink ‘away’ jersey.
In what is set up to be one of the games of the decade and also a replay of the 2020 Grand Final, if Penrith can manage a victory this Sunday I believe
it will be their best of this golden run. Purely for two reasons. For the calibre of player they have lost, but even moreso from the emergence of homegrown heroes who continue to fall off the production line right into Ivan’s squad and they do it with aplomb.
In summation let me offer a paradox. I compare these two teams to the Immovable Object (Penrith) vs the Unstoppable Force (Melbourne).
Hence by terminology, an Unstoppable Force, in order to become unstoppable ought to possess infinite energy. On the other hand, an Immovable Object is non-submissive to any force of any magnitude!
So wo wins? By definition, the Immovable Object wins. An Immovable Object will not move AT ALL, no matter what the force exerted on it is. The same is not true for the Unstoppable Force!
My prediction? Penrith 28 Melbourne 16. Clive Churchill Medalist- Dylan Edwards! See you at the game!
Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a new car contact my great mate at Sinclair Hyundai, Toby Hughes.
MG (random Westie) OAM
ROAR FOR FOUR! THE MIGHTY PANTHERS
‘Only way to go’: Departing trio vow to leave with premiership ring
“We won’t leave here without a ring. There is no other way to leave this place”.
BY BRAD WALTER NRL SENIOR REPORTER
THAT’S the pact departing Penrith stars Jarome Luai, James Fisher-Harris and Sunia Turuva have made as they aim to help the club to an historic four peat before leaving at the end of the season.
Since the start of their premiership run, the Panthers have farewelled Matt Burton, Paul Momirovski, Kurt Capewell, Tyrone May (2021), Viliame Kikau, Api Koroisau, Charlie Staines (2022) and Stephen Crichton, Spencer Leniu, Jaeman Salmon and Jack Cogger (2023).
The 11 former Panthers all left with a premiership ring and Luai, Fisher-Harris and Turuva have vowed to depart in the same style.
“For us, the mindset is that we won’t leave here without a ring,” Turuva said.
“Critta and Spennie, Api and Kiks … they all left here with a ring and left here on a high, so that is what we want to do.
“Speaking to ‘Romey’ about it, as well, it would be massive to finish here on a high note. We won’t leave here without a ring. There is no other way to leave this place.”
Whilst Luai and Fisher-Harris have been involved in each of Penrith’s grand final triumphs, Turuva won his first premiership last year and knows they may not get another chance.
The 2023 Dally M Rookie of the Year is joining Luai at Wests Tigers, where Koroisau and Staines
currently play, whilst Fisher-Harris is returning home to New Zealand to play alongside Capewell at the Warriors.
“It is massive for myself, having one finals series under my belt now to know what is coming,” Turuva said.
“Finals is a different ball game, there are no more second chances, so we just have to be on our A-game every week.”
After establishing himself on the Panthers right wing last year, Turuva has had a less settled 2024 season as he struggled to finalise his future.
The 22-year-old Fiji international had been targeted by the Dolphins as a recruit for their
inaugural season but felt a deep loyalty to Penrith for the club’s support of him and his family after fire destroyed their home in 2020.
He also suffered the loss of his mother, Salote, a year later.
However, the opportunity to join Luai and Koroisau, who is his first cousin, at Wests Tigers was too hard to resist.
Such was the enormity of the decision that Panthers coach Ivan Cleary rested Turuva for the Round 8 match against the Cowboys while he finalised the three-year deal with the Tigers.
“Myself and Coach [Cleary] just had a chat about getting my future sorted because it was dragging and it was weighing me down, as well,” Turuva said.
“Coach touched on how it can take an emotional toll on us players.
“I was having chats with my family as well because this place is home, with what the club has done for me over the last couple of years. It was good to get it out of the way.”
Fellow Panthers winger Brian To’o said teammates were disappointed Turuva, Luai and FisherHarris were leaving but wanted to ensure they left with a premiership.
“It’s obviously going to be emotional and there is a bit of happiness there as well for the boys,” To’o said.
“They are off to bigger and better things next year, but we just want to focus on now. We just want to make the most of it, and hopefully we can send the boys off on a good note.
ROAR FOR FOUR! THE MIGHTY PANTHERS
Lion and Panthers extend winning partnership
Penrith Panthers is thrilled to announce an extended partnership with Lion for a further seven years, which will see Tooheys remain the lead brand for the Panthers until 2031.
BY PANTHERS MEDIA
WITH a rich history in supporting the club, Tooheys has been a proud partner of the Panthers for over 22 years, and the 2027 season will mark a remarkable 50 years of partnership with the Panthers Group.
This enduring relationship reflects a commitment to not only the club but also the proud Penrith community.
James Brindley, Managing Director at Lion Australia comments, “Tooheys has been deeply embedded in the Panthers’ journey for over two decades, and the upcoming 50-year milestone in 2027 is a testament to the strength of our relationship. We share a common bond with the club and the Penrith community, and we’re excited to continue supporting the Panthers as they build on their success and inspire the next generation of fans. Good luck to the team!”
The partnership extends across the clubs within the Panthers Group— Penrith, Port Macquarie, Bathurst, Glenbrook, and North Richmond— alongside the Pullman Sydney Penrith and Western Sydney Conference Centre.
We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Lion, a collaboration that has been essential in strengthening the experience for our Panthers members across our proud leagues clubs. Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher “ “
mighty Panthers
“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Lion, a collaboration that has been essential in strengthening the experience for our Panthers members across our proud leagues clubs,” Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher said.
“With Tooheys as our lead brand, this partnership not only enhances our venues but also celebrates five decades of shared success and community spirit.”
This collaboration will continue to strengthen the connection between the Panthers and its loyal fan base.
“We’re excited to extend our
partnership with Lion over the next seven years and their support has been vital for our recent success,” Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.
“Our partnership with the Tooheys brand has thrived because of our mutual values, including teamwork, innovation, outstanding results, and a dedication to serving our community.”
In addition to the new Tooheys Ultra Zero Carb*, fans can also enjoy a variety of other prominent brands at Panthers venues, ensuring a diverse range of options for all members and visitors.
*<0.5g carbs per serve.
ROAR FOR FOUR! THE MIGHTY PANTHERS
Getting to know your former players...
GREG ALEXANDER
1. What age did you start playing footy? 5yrs old playing for St Nicholas
2. Apart from Bluebet Stadium what is your favourite other ground to play at? Leichhardt Oval
3. If not footy what would you be doing? PE teacher
4. Favourite other Sport and Athlete? Golf - any Aussie playing on USPGA
5. Favourite Song? Most Elton John songs are pretty good
6. Favourite Movie? The Departed
7. Favourite TV Series? Seinfeld..Escape to the Country
8. Favourite Junk Food? Hot Chips
9. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? MG, Gowy, Royce
10. What is your death row meal? Roast chicken, chips & gravy…sticky date pudding and ice cream
Date of Birth: 4 March 1965
Birthplace: Penrith, NSW
Age: 59 Nickname: Brandy
Height: 180 cm Weight: 84 kg
Debut Club: Penrith Panthers Date: 1984
SCOTT SATTLER
1. What age did you start playing footy? 11- played soccer first because my Dad said the game was too dirty. Fancy that coming from a guy who played in the 60-70’s.
2. Apart from Bluebet Stadium what is your favourite other ground to play at? Marathon Stadium - Newcastle
3. If not footy what would you be doing? Detective in Police Force
4. Favourite other Sport and Athlete? Boxing - Sugar Ray Robinson
5. Favourite Song? We didn’t start the fire - Billy Joel
6. Favourite Movie? Goodfellas & The Warriors
7. Favourite TV Series? Seinfeld or The Shield - can’t split it
8. Favourite Junk Food? Pizza - Double Pepperoni
9. What 3 famous people would you love to have a night out with? Shane Warne, Teddy Atlas & Blocker
10. What is your death row meal? 2 kilo Pork Ribs, steak Fries, Chocolate Lava Pudding with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Date of Birth: 13 December 1971
Birthplace: Camperdown, NSW
Age: 52 Nickname: Satts
Height: 180 cm Weight: 95 kg
Debut Club: Gold Coast Chargers Date: Round 8, 1992 v Parramatta
PANTHER PRIDE
CDC Charter Panther Bus: NRL Grand Final
BY PANTHERS MEDIA
THE DETAILS
• Sunday 6 October
• Buses depart from the ESQ Display Centre near the multi-storey carpark Panthers Penrith Leagues Club at 4.30pm
• Pre-Game Entertainment Commences: 6:30pm
• NRL Kick-Off at Accor Stadium: 7:30pm
• Buses depart Accor Stadium 15 minutes after the Grand Final presentation
• Bus tickets do not include entry to the game
• No alcohol is allowed
• Bus Tickets: Members: $20 | Nonmembers: $25
• LIMITED AVAILABILITYYou must pre-book tickets online at https://am.ticketmaster. com/penrithpanthers/buy/ CDCCharterBusGF or via the Footy Hub located inside Panthers Penrith Leagues Club
PANTHER PRIDE
Girl power on Council
BY KERRIE DAVIES
THE NSW Electoral Commission has confirmed the final results for the Penrith Local Government elections. Your 15 elected Councillors are listed below.
The ALP has 9 Councillors in total, meaning they will effectively have dominance on Council and will get their choice on who will be the Mayor, which will likely be Todd Carney. Mr Carney was our Mayor prior to the elections on September 14.
All five Councillors elected in South Ward are female, and the gender make up of the total 15 is 8 females and 7 males; the first time there’s been more women than men.
The 9 newcomers to Council are Reece Nuttall, Vanessa Pollack, Hollie McLean, Faithe Skinner, Kirstie Boerst, Garion Thain, Sarbjeet Kaur, Libby Austin and Edwin Mifsud.
NORTH WARD
John THAIN (ALP)
Ross FOWLER (LIB)
Reece NUTTALL (LIB)
Robin COOK (ALP)
Glenn GARDINER (IND)
SOUTH WARD
Sue Day (IND)
Vanessa Pollack (Libertarian)
Hollie McLean (ALP)
Faithe Skinner (IND)
Kirstie Boerst (ALP)
EAST WARD
Todd CARNEY (ALP)
Garion THAIN (ALP)
Sarbjeet KAUR (ALP)
Libby AUSTIN (ALP)
Edwin MIFSUD (ALP)
South Ward Councillor Sue Day and the second on her independent ticket, Councillor Faithe Skinner.
North Ward Councillor Glenn Gardiner.
95B STATION ST, PENRITH
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Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644
Greg Davies 0419 177 259
Larry Davis 0432 062 643
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Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com
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Spotlight on small business
BY KERRIE DAVIES
OCTOBER is Small Business
Month, a time to recognise and celebrate the vital role that small businesses play in our communities.
State Member for Badgerys Creek, Tanya Davies MP is recognising the important role of the many small businesses in our area.
“With over 850,000 small businesses across NSW, these enterprises are
the backbone of our economy, employing nearly two million people and contributing significantly to local growth and prosperity,” Mrs Davies said.
“Small businesses are the heart of our communities, providing jobs, services and unique local character.”
One of those businesses was visited by Mrs Davies this week.
“Thank you to Fruit World Penrith Florist at Nepean Village for their excellent customer service and wonderful flowers.”
NEPEAN FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
Next Meeting: 1.30pm Saturday 5 October
Location: Old School Residence, Gt Western Hwy (off Lawson Rd), Emu Plains)
Speaker: Ian Kendall Topic: Finding Women in your Ancestry
BOARD POSITIONS
St Marys, at the heart of Sydney’s Western suburbs, proudly embraces its rich heritage, seizes growth opportunities, and draws strength from its diverse community. The future of St Marys is now.
The St Marys Town Centre is seeking forward thinking business professionals to join our Board.
This voluntary role of Director will effectively represent and promote the interests of the St Marys Town Centre and be responsible for the overall strategy, governance, and performance of the organisation. Commitment is key to this role. A time commitment of between 4 and 8 hours per month will include attending and participating in monthly Board meetings (held on site at the St Marys office), general meetings, and relevant committee meetings, as well as preparation time. Board members are required to have knowledge and experience of the role including legal, ethical, fiduciary, and financial responsibilities. The successful applicant will possess competencies in the following:
• Strategic expertise
• Commercial acumen
• Corporate Governance
• Risk Management and Compliance
• Leadership
• Ethics and Integrity
Expressions of interest can be emailed to info@stmarystowncentre.com.au
Vale Jim Aitken OAM
IT is with great sadness that Council has announced that former Mayor and Councillor Jim Aitken has passed away. Jim, a local businessman, was a Councillor for 28 years giving
He
jobs.
Western Sydney University helping fast-track more teachers for Western Sydney classrooms
WESTERN Sydney University is helping tackle the critical shortage of teachers in Western Sydney – taking part in a national program designed to train more primary and high school teachers to work in the classrooms where they are needed most.
The University’s School of Education has been awarded more than $3 million over the next three years as part of the Australian Government’s High Achieving Teachers (HAT) program pilot expansion.
Under the program, the University will deliver a career pathway designed to prepare and fasttrack new primary and secondary school teachers – particularly those from diverse socio-cultural and linguistic backgrounds – to enter the classroom.
Dean of the University’s School of Education, Professor Michele Simons, said the University’s pilot program will draw 100 applicants from a talented network of Community Language Teachers who among them teach more than 80 different languages.
Professor Simons said Western Sydney University is proud to be doing its part to help develop teachers from a wide variety of backgrounds to work in Western Sydney’s schools and address the longterm workforce challenges currently facing the teaching profession.
“Our schools in Western Sydney are among some of the most culturally and linguistically-diverse in the country. We want our initial teacher education
programs to also reflect that incredible community diversity. We need more highly-skilled teachers who can bring their own unique multilingual and cross-cultural capabilities into the classroom,” said Professor Simons.
Research from the University’s own Centre for Western Sydney reveals that 40.9% of the Western Sydney region’s residents were born outside of Australia.
Figures from the NSW Department of Education show that 37% of students in public schools come from homes where languages other than English are spoken. The diversity of language backgrounds of students in government schools also increased by
12% in 2020 to more than 240 languages.
“Many of our community language teachers come to Australia having previously worked in education in their countries of origin as teachers and school leaders, or they want to retrain.
“These are exactly the kinds of passionate future teachers we want for the profession. Most critically, they already have much-valued graduate or postgraduate qualifications in vital learning areas such as maths, science, English, business and technology.
“This program is all about creating a more sustainable pipeline of highly-qualified graduate teachers to work in our classrooms.”
Pawsitive healing for local patients
PATS and cuddles are back on the medicine chart at Hawkesbury District Hospital with the much-anticipated return of the Nepean Therapy Dogs.
There were no shortages of smiles as the perfectly groomed and behaved four-legged visitors offered much-needed distraction to patients, many who are missing their own pets from home.
“Thank you to the dogs and their handlers who generously volunteer their time to brighten the day for others. We can’t wait to see you back next month!” a hospital spokesperson said.
NADO’s Got Talent Show
BY NOEL ROWSELL
NADO Disability Services, in partnership with The Ross Hutchison Foundation, proudly hosted its inaugural “NADO’s Got Talent” show at NADO Day Office, St Marys on Friday 27th September.
This event, a celebration of community spirit and artistic flair, was made possible by a generous grant from Penrith City Council and brought together a diverse array of performers from across the Nepean and Blue Mountains, showcasing the extraordinary talent within NADO’s participants.
Ross “Rossco” Hutchison, a renowned choreographer and showbiz performer extraordinaire, spearheaded this special initiative. Together with NADO, his vision was to create an all-inclusive event where individuals of all abilities could take to the stage and share their wonderful talents.
The show featured 12 magnificent acts, each bringing their own unique flair to the stage. From captivating mime performances to soulful singing, vibrant dance routines, and stunning displays of musicianship
on keyboards and guitars, the talent on display was nothing short of aweinspiring.
Audience members were treated to a variety of genres and performances, leaving them entertained, inspired, and filled with joy.
The atmosphere in the venue was electric, with families, friends, staff and community members cheering on the performers. Each act was met with a round of elated applause, and it was clear that the audience shared in the pride and excitement of every participant. This event created more than just entertainment; it was a celebration of inclusion, individual talent and creativity.
Denise Heath, CEO of NADO said she was “captivated by the
performances. Each performer showed confidence and control, fully committing to their well-rehearsed performances. The program, the staging and having such an accomplished MC as Ross, made the event truly memorable”.
At the end of the event, each participant was presented with a certificate, a heartfelt keepsake of their involvement in this special event. The smiles on their faces were a testament to the success of the show and the positive impact it had on both the performers and the audience.
NADO Disability Services, which has been serving the Nepean and Blue Mountains community for over 40 years, is committed to providing opportunities for individuals with
disability to grow, thrive, and to have opportunities to express themselves and their individual talents.
Events like NADO’s Got Talent highlight the incredible potential of all people, regardless of ability, and the importance of fostering inclusive spaces for creative expression.
As the lights dimmed, the overwhelming sense of happiness, pride, and joy that filled the room was a reminder of the power of community and the arts in creating meaningful and memorable experiences for all.
Stay tuned for the next instalment of this remarkable event coming in 2025, as NADO Disability Services continue to champion inclusion and the celebration of talent within our community.
Penrith Relay For Life 2024
PENRITH Relay For Life is back for 2024. Registrations are now opened for Saturday 26th October 2024 at Penrith Paceway, starting at 11am and finishing at 10pm.
Penrith Relay For Life has been running for the past 22 years and the Penrith Community has raised over $4.3 million, thank you for your support!
The money raised provides groundbreaking cancer research, local support programs for Cancer patients as well as Cancer prevention programs in local schools and community groups.
Organised by passionate local volunteers, Penrith Relay For Life gives the community a chance to join forces in support of everyone affected by cancer, have fun at a community festival, and raise vital funds towards Cancer Council’s world-class research, prevention, advocacy and support services.
“We have seen a large spike in demand for our support in the Western Sydney region, but a fall in fundraising to
support the cause. With Cancer Council’s services needed more now than ever before, we need our local community to get involved” said Community Fundraising Coordinator, Yvette Haines.
We are also looking for local businesses to sponsor our event.
Penrith Relay For Life 2024 will still have all of the special key Relay elements including; Opening Ceremony, survivors and carers lap of honour, entertainment and our very special Hope Ceremony.
Penrith Relay for Life Media/ Marketing Co-ordinator Brad See said, “Our aim as a committee is to put on a good event for our community to support one another, this years target is $100,000 to support Cancer Council in working towards a cancer free future”.
To join the family-fun, register for Penrith Relay For Life at www.relayforlife.org.au/event/ penrith-2024
You can keep up to date with what’s going on by joining Penrith Relay for Life Facebook Group.
ORCHARD HILLS
VETERINARY HOSPITAL
A dog’s day out: Navigating dog park etiquette
BY KELLIE TICKNER, ORCHARD HILLS VETERINARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR
WITH spring in full bloom, dog owners across Penrith are eager to get outside and enjoy the fresh air with their fourlegged friends. Scattered throughout our suburbs, dog parks offer an excellent space for dogs to run free, play, and socialise. However, for these spaces to remain safe and enjoyable, it’s important that dog owners follow proper etiquette.
Ground Rules for a Happy Dog Park Experience
Before you unleash your pup in the park, it’s essential to be mindful of your dog’s temperament. Not every dog is suited for the dog park environment, and it’s up to you to ensure that your dog will handle the excitement and interaction with other
dogs appropriately. Let’s explore some key tips on what to do and what to avoid when visiting the dog park.
The DOs of Dog Park Etiquette
1. Be Realistic About Your Dog: Know your dog’s behaviour and social skills. A dog park can be overwhelming, even for well-mannered dogs. Ensure your dog is comfortable interacting with other dogs and can handle the dynamic energy that comes with an off-leash environment.
2. Keep Vaccinations Up to Date: The health of your dog and others is critical. Make sure your dog is fully vaccinated, has regular preventative care, and is healthy before visiting a dog park. This helps minimise the risk of disease transmission among pets.
3. Leash Until the Designated Area: For everyone’s safety, keep your dog on a leash until you’ve entered the fenced-off, designated play area. This helps prevent any uncontrolled interactions or confrontations during the initial introductions.
4. Respect Size Restrictions: If the dog park separates areas for small and large dogs, respect these boundaries. Larger dogs can inadvertently harm smaller ones during play, and smaller dogs may feel intimidated in a largedog section.
5. Scoop the Poop: Always clean up after your dog. This basic rule keeps the park clean and enjoyable for all and ensures the health of the environment and other dogs.
The DON’Ts of Dog Park Etiquette
1. Don’t Get Distracted: Stay attentive. Your dog’s safety and behaviour are your responsibility, so avoid distractions like phone use and keep an eye on how your dog interacts with others.
2. Avoid Taking Puppies: If your puppy is under 16 weeks old or not fully vaccinated, it’s best to skip the dog park. Speak to your vet about other ways to socialise your puppy in a safer setting.
3. No Behavioural Rehabilitation at the Park: Dog parks are not the place for training dogs with behavioural challenges. If your dog becomes stressed or shows signs of anxiety, leave the park and seek help from a professional trainer or veterinarian.
By following these tips, you and your dog can enjoy a fun, safe experience at the park. A little awareness goes a long way in ensuring a great time for everyone involved. For more advice on dog care, reach out to the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital on 0247362027. Let’s make this spring a happy one for both dogs and their owners!
SO, you’ve decided to get solar! Good on you, I say. The results of a quality system are immediate, and the savings can be substantial, so congratulations on taking the step towards a greener, more sustainable future for your home or business.
You’ve got a lot to look forward toand I know all too well how eager you might feel to get your system up and running, but there are a few things to consider before your installer arrives.
Jim’s Gems
Taking a moment to be prepared will help make the process smoother and ensure you get the most out of your investment from day one.
First and foremost, if you haven’t already, take a look at your current energy usage, and have a think about your future goals. How much are you spending on electricity now, and what would you like your energy costs to look like moving forward? Ideally, you’ll have already discussed this with your chosen provider – and at Nepean Solar Solutions, we require copies of your electricity bills to ensure that we can present you with the most suitable proposal for your individual needs. However, it’s essential to keep these factors in mind before you sign on the dotted line.
Another crucial step we take for our customers – and we hope other providers also prioritize - is
a thorough site inspection. Site inspections should be conducted by an accredited designer, or at the very least, a qualified and experienced installer. This part of the process is essential as it confirms that your roof is suitable for solar panels and helps identify an appropriate location for your inverter and/or battery. If any issues are discovered at this stage, such as blocked access to necessary areas, or less available roof space than expected, you will have time to address them.
Additionally, ahead of your installation day, it’s important to clear the installation area of obstacles, such as cars and outdoor furniture, to provide the tradespeople with full and safe access to your roof, meter box, and roof cavity. If you have pets, it’s always appreciated if you could ensure they are secured, and while
it isn’t essential, we do encourage at least one household member to be present for communication purposes too.
That way, at the end of the day, our team can walk you through monitoring and address any questions you may have about making the most of your new investment – but of course, we’re here and happy to help anytime!
Are property prices falling?
MOST media (this fine newspaper excluded of course) rely upon sensational headlines to grab your attention to read the article, which then helps to sell advertsising.
Recently, a major television station had a story on their news bulletin discussing large price drops in various suburbs. Figures can be deceiving sometimes, and the suburbs mentioned all had a very small number of sales over the period.
It looks terrible, and in the media’s usual mischievous tradition, they have picked the most lurid angle to report something because that’s what sells. The 150-year-old saying “what bleeds, leads” still holds true today. In many ways, it speaks more to the immutability of human nature than it does about the media. Unfortunately, we’re easy to fool and make the same mistakes from generation to generation.
Have prices fallen 14-20 percent in these suburbs?
Remember that sales volumes are extremely low, as is normal at this cycle stage, and we need a bare minimum of 30 observations to get a statistically
significant sample. We’ll look at each suburb one by one.
If we consider that sales volumes have been falling, the sales made last month are likely even lower than the 12-month average. So, a couple of lower-priced property sales would easily drag the median down. The property market isn’t crashing. What else?
Observing the world around you is a good way to assess the real state of the economy. A superintelligent mate who retired in his early 30s and lives in a waterfront property in Hunters Hill advised that new uniform sales at his children’s school had fallen 30 percent, and second-hand sales are up 10x. The economy is hurting.
We’ve been in the longest per-capita recession in
30 years, and consumer sentiment is worse than it was during the height of the pandemic. It’s easy to get caught up in the media’s hype and emotion, but personally, I’ve never been more bullish.
The only way a bull run* starts is when the last bull becomes a bear; it’s the only way to flush out the last of the frothiness of hope and exuberance…. It’s perfect.
History shows that when an economy gets too excited on cheap money and finance (as occurred after Covid lockdowns) you need a tightening of spending to bring inflation back to normal levels. Once this is achieved, interest rates will start to drop, any asset prices (including property) will start to increase again.
History repeats itself.
And yes… I borrowed the media headlines to get your attention!
*a bull run is a sustained upswing in asset prices; a bear market is the opposite
Please do not hesitate to contact me on 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.
This information is the opinion of the writer and of a general nature, and you need to take all your own circumstances into consideration before making any commitments.
WITH STEVE BEARD Select Mortgage Broker
School Holidays
WEDNESDAY
2ND & 9TH OCTOBER
$10 BINGO or $15 BINGO & LUNCH (Includes pen, pkt chips) BOOKS ON SALE FROM 10AM GAME RUNS 11AM TO 12PM
LOTS OF PRIZES TO BE WON
School Holidays
SUPPORT LOCAL THIS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
There’s so much to see and do locally in Penrith these school holidays!
The kids will love the local food on offer - from fish and chips to cup cakes to sweets and lollies!
Restaurants, cafes, retail - everything you could wish for is right here in the heart of Penrith!
HENRY’S BAR & RESTAURANT
Friday 4 October, 11am
Children’s High Tea ~ $25 per person
Hot Chocolate or Milkshake, Sausage Rolls, Finger Sandwiches, Cheesy Pastry Fingers, Cupcakes, Lamington Fingers, Mini Cookies
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
Henry’s Bar & Restaurant, 74 Henry Street, Penrith functions@henrysbar.com.au
School Holidays
Phillip Parker King
By Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.
PHILLIP was a naval officer, hydrographer and company manager born in December 1791 at Norfolk Island. The son of Philip Gidley and Anna Josepha King (née Coombe). Phillip sailed for England in the “Britannia” with his parents in October 1796. When his father left England in November 1799 to become Governor of New South Wales, Phillip was placed under the tuition of Reverend Burford in Essex and in 1802 he was nominated to the Portsmouth Naval Academy. In 1806 his father had granted him 660 acres on the South Creek near Rooty Hill and Governor Macquarie had given him another 600 acres. He had 850 cattle, 40 horses, 1800 sheep, 100 pigs and some forty men employed on his property. By November 1807 he entered the navy in the “Diana”. He became a midshipman and served for six years in the North Sea, the Bay of Biscay and the Mediterranean where he was promoted Master’s Mate in 1810 and later Lieutenant in February 1814. Matthew Flinders a friend of the family interested him in surveying and introduced him to Captain Thomas Hurd a hydrographer to the Admiralty who gave him careful training. In 1817 the British Government decided that the restoration of peace made it most important with as little delay as possible to explore part of the coast of New Holland that had not been surveyed or examined by Captain Flinders and Lieutenant King was appointed to do this, but before he departed Phillip married Harriet the daughter of Christopher Lethbridge of Launceston in Cornwall. He arrived at Port Jackson in September 1817 on the “Dick” with instructions from the Colonial Office to Governor Lachlan Macquarie that he was to be provided with the most suitable vessel and a carefully chosen crew. The 84-ton cutter “Mermaid” was bought for £2,000 and the expedition sailed from Sydney in December with a complement of nineteen that included Allan Cunningham, John Septimus Roe and Bungaree an Aboriginal. By sailing King George Sound they reached the Northwest Cape where the survey began. Phillip had been instructed by the Admiralty to discover whether there was any river likely to lead to an interior navigation and the Colonial Office asked him to collect information about climate, topography, fauna, timber, minerals and the natives with the prospects of developing trade with them. In February 1818 in the Pilbara region of Western Australia he named two islands near the Burrup Peninsula as a result of the friendly meetings the explorers and Bungaree had enjoyed with the resident Yaburara people. From February until June 1818 the expedition surveyed the coast as far as Van Diemen’s Gulf and had many meetings with Aboriginal and Malay people and in June the “Mermaid” visited Timor and then returned to Sydney by the way they had come, arriving in July. In December and January Phillip surveyed the recently discovered Macquarie Harbour in Van Diemen’s Land and sailed in May 1819 for the Torres Strait. He went on to survey the coast between Cape Wessel and Admiralty Gulf. He returned to Sydney in January 1820 where in Sydney Cove the “Mermaid” was careened (careening is a method of gaining access to the hull of a sailing vessel without the use of a dry dock). They re-coppered and caulked and then immersed it for several days to destroy the cockroaches that infested the ship,
but both cockroaches and rats soon reappeared. Only two of the former crew volunteered to sail again and a new crew was formed, this time including a surgeon. The “Mermaid” sailed north in June 1820 and at Bowen they ran aground and suffered a lot of damage. Surveys were made between Admiralty Gulf and Brunswick Sound on the north-west coast, but in September the ship began to leak badly and it was careened and ten days were spent repairing it. Phillip then left the coast and sailed to Port Jackson and after a narrow escape from being wrecked off Botany Bay he arrived on 9 December. Phillip made his fourth and final survey in northern Australia in the “Bathurst” that carried a complement of thirty-three and in place of Bungaree Phillip took Bundell another Aboriginal,. The “Bathurst” sailed from Sydney in May 1821 by way of Torres Strait to the north-west coast. After a visit to Mauritius for rest and refreshment the “Bathurst” resumed the survey of the west coast. Phillip arrived back in Sydney in April 1822 and by July he sought permission to buy additional land at Rooty Hill but Governor Sir Thomas Brisbane offered him instead a grant of 3000 acres. On those four voyages he made significant contributions to Australian exploration by establishing the insularity of several islands, by investigating the inner geography of many gulfs and by giving the first report of Port Darwin. When he reached Sydney he was ordered to return to England with his ship. In April 1823 he reached England in poor health and thought of retiring to his Australian estates. In 1824 Phillip became a shareholder in the newly established Australian Agricultural Company with a capital of £1,000,000 and a promise of 1,000,000 acres in NSW. He was appointed to the Australian Advisory Committee together with John Macarthur, his son James, his son-in-law Dr James Bowman and his nephew Hannibal who was Phillip’s brother-in-law. Phillip is now recognized as one of Britain’s leading hydrographers and in February 1824 he was made a fellow of the Royal Society. In London in 1826 he published his two-volume Narrative of a Survey of the Intertropical and Western Coasts of Australia, Performed Between the Years 18181822 and partly illustrated by his own sketches. In May 1826 he sailed in command of HMS “Adventure” along with HMS “Beagle” to chart the coasts of Peru, Chile and Patagonia. This arduous task lasted until 1830. There were narrow escapes from shipwreck and they were under great strain. When the expedition returned to England in October 1830, Phillip was promoted to Captain and was suffering from poor health and was seriously ill in November 1854. In 1855 he was promoted Rear Admiral on the retired list. On the evening of 26 February 1856 he dined on board the “Juno” as the guest of Captain S G Fremantle. He was put ashore and walked to his home in North Sydney where he collapsed at the gate in an apoplectic fit and died at the age of 75 years. He is buried at St Mary Magdalene cemetery, St Marys. His widow Harriet died at Ashfield in December 1874 at the age of 78 years and is buried with Phillip. Painting of Phillip Parker King courtesy of National Archives.
Sources: Australian National University Canberra, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Historical Records of Australia, State Library of New South Wales, Australian Royalty website.
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ASBK returns to One Raceway for Round Six
BY NOEL ROWSELL
GOULBURN’S re-branded One Raceway will again reverberate to the sights and sounds of Australia’s fastest riders, when Round Six of the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), presented by Motul, is held at the circuit from October 4-6.
One Raceway, formerly Wakefield Park, will host the penultimate round of the Championship following a suite of major upgrades to the 2.2km circuit, which includes new and improved turns, a complete resurface, rider safety upgrades and 10-metre-high noise walls constructed at the northern and southern ends of the circuit – a bonus for spectators, as they’ll also double as viewing platforms for amazing views of all the action in every part of the circuit.
A significant new feature will be the circuit’s ability to race in either direction for both motorcycles and cars.
The multi-million-dollar transformation sets the scene for a spectacular return to the Goulburn venue, which had been a long-time host of the ASBK but has now been revived under new ownership. The last ASBK Championship round was held at One Raceway in 2022.
There will be several local riders competing over this weekend, including JJ Nahlous (Glenwood),
Jake Farnsworth (Glenhaven) and Jack Favelle (Cattai) in Michelin Supersport, William Hunt (Mulgoa Rise) in both Race & Road Supersport 300 and the ShopYamaha R3 Cup, Elijah Andrew (Marayong) in both the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup and ShopYamaha R3Cup, Adam Jordan (East Kurrajong) and Zac Russo (Sackville North) in the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup and Cru Halliday (Camden) in Pirelli Superbikes.
The battle for this year’s title in Michelin
Supersport is enthralling, with JJ Nahlous (201 points) leading narrowly from Olly Simpson (181), Jake Farnsworth (169), Tom Bramich (166) and Archie McDonald (164), whilst Jack Favelle is in 6th on 120 and out of contention this year. The leading five riders are all statistically capable of winning this year’s title, although it does appear the respective racing fortunes of JJ and Olly in the final two rounds will determine the champion.
JJ Nahlous (#20) leads Tom Toparis (#7) through a turn. Photo courtesy of Pit Lane Studio
Western Sydney Juniors chase International Titles
Carruthers Impresses in Cambodian ADT Players Championship
COBY Carruthers (Jordan Springs / Concord GC) continues to feature in local golf news, competing at the ADT Players Championship, presented by The R&A, which was played at Angkor Golf Resort, Cambodia over 25th - 28th September.
Coby was one of only three amateur players to make the 36-hole cut and saved his best round for last, with his 6-under score of 66 only bettered by 5 other players on the day, who all finished at the top of the leaderboard.
Coby shot rounds of 70, 72, 77, 66 to finish 3-under, in T46 overall.
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THREE Jack Newton International Junior events are currently being held in the Hunter Valley, beginning on 1st October.
The main event is the Jack Newton International Junior Classic, which is being played from 1-4 October at Cypress Lakes GC. This is a 72-hole event and will not feature a cut, although Days 3-4 will be seeded draws.
The local western Sydney players competing in this event are: Annoushka Maikap, Savannah Webb, Marie-Claire Domingo (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Jake Thompson (Leonay GC), Darcy Mackay (Twin Creeks / The Australian GC), Matthew Fullerton (Richmond / Lynwood CC), Jesse Hardaker (Wentworth Falls CC). Pending players - Riley Cleminson, Zachary Isaako (Stonecutters Ridge GC).
The Jack Newton International SubJunior Classic will also be held over 1-4 October at The Vintage GC. Once again, the event is 72 holes, no cuts, with a seeded draw on Days 3-4. The only local western Sydney entrant is Hunter McMillan (Dunheved GC).
The Jack Newton International U12 Junior Classic is being held from 1-3 October at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley. The local western Sydney entrants are Carter Bryant (Richmond / Lynwood CC), Mitchell Dewberry (Twin Creeks CGC), Zachary Isaako (Stonecutters Ridge GC).
The Jack Newton International Junior Classic is a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) and Golf Australia Junior Order of Merit (GA OOM) event. The tournament is for 15, 16 & 17-year-old players and is limited to 208 of the best juniors from around the world.
Local students win Jack Newton Shield Girls Divisions
BY NOEL ROWSELL
SAVANNAH Webb (Stonecutters Ridge GC / St John Paul ll College) and Farmaan Dhillon (Glenmore Heritage Valley GC / Penrith Anglican College) were the scratch and nett winners respectively in the Girls division of the 2024 Jack Newton Shield, which was held at Moore Park GC over 23rd-24th September.
The Jack Newton Shield (for both Boys and Girls Divisions) is a School event, for players aged 12-15, attending a NSW or ACT High School in Years 7, 8 or 9. Players must have also been a member of a Golf Club and hold an 18-Hole GA Handicap to be eligible.
The tournament was limited to just 112 players, with Nicholas Heanes (Gilroy College) and Archie Connor (Waverley College) the Scratch and Nett winners respectively in the Boys division.
The 2024 JNJG Junior Pennant and Encourage Shield Pennant competitions begin on 13th October, with matches in all divisions played at central venues each Sunday.
Stonecutters Ridge GC will play Junior Pennant in Division Five, alongside Oatlands, Mona Vale, North Ryde and Warringah.
Penrith GC will play in Division 6, alongside Castle Hill, RydeParramatta, St Michael’s and Lynwood.
Both clubs have also entered teams in the Encourage Shield competition, in Division 5, alongside Hurstville, The Ridge and Woolooware.
Richmond will play in Division 2 of Encourage Shield, alongside
Blue, Cromer, Roseville and Killara.
The playing rosters of the three local clubs are as follows:
PENRITH GC: Junior Pennant: Jess Fog, Riley Stasiuk, Ryder Jerzyna, Xavier Stamatakis, Nicole Son, Brent Gadd. Encourage Shield: Riley Sercombe, Josh Bourke, Cooper Kennedy, Ryan Love, Deacon Brownlie, Lachlan Hood.
STONECUTTERS RIDGE
GC: Junior Pennant - Riley Cleminson, Zac Isaako, Savannah Webb, Annoushka Maikap, MarieClaire Domingo, Sean Sammons, Jack Gillet, Aayush Verma, Conor O’Brien, manager Brad Webb, assistant/coach Ryan Cadle. RICHMOND GC: Evelyn Oram, Luke Carruthers, Harrison Oram, Ewan Hanson, Lincoln McGown, Archer Adam, Max McTaggart, Liam O’Brian, Juvan Van Wyk.
Cronulla
Matthew Fullerton and Jake Thompson. Photos courtesy of JNJG
Coby Carruthers in action off the tee. Photo courtesy of NextGEN Amateur Tour
BY NOEL ROWSELL
The winners of the Jack Newton Shield divisions. Photo supplied
Wallacia dominates Penultimate Veterans Interclub event
WALLACIA
CC hosted the penultimate round of the 2024 Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA) Inter-Club series, using home course advantage to take out the Team’s event on the day.
124 players teed off on a chilly and slightly damp Friday morning, in spite of the threatening forecast of continued rain.
Wallacia members took full advantage of their local knowledge to feature prominently in the list of
prizewinners, claiming the Team’s event for the first time since February 2023. The combined scores of Steve Snell, Warren Husband, Steve Francis and Dave Coombs was 147 stableford points, enough to overcome Glenmore (142), closely followed by Richmond and Penrith (141 each), then Dunheved and Leonay (140 each).
Men’s Individual events: A GradeSteve Snell (Wallacia) 38 points, Karl Lozier (Richmond) 37, Paul Evans (Richmond) 37. B Grade - Warren Husband (Wallacia) 38, Scott Bailey (Glenmore) 37, Grant Bissett (Leonay) 37. C Grade: Dave Coombs (Wallacia) 35, John Woods (Wallacia) 34 c/b, Fred Croyston (Stonecutters Ridge) 34.
Ladies Individual: Jean Paterson (Penrith) 38, Julie Edwards (Glenmore) 33 c/b, Jo-Ellen Thorpe (Wallacia) 33.
2BBB Medley - Lynette Luttringer, Allan Davies (Richmond) 42 c/b, Jean Paterson, Julie Berg (Penrith) 42, Christine Hoppe, Robert Browning (Wallacia) 41 c/b.
Men’s 2BBB - Steve Malesevic, Grant Bissett (Leonay,) 46, Paul Fairbrother, Warren Beard (Dunheved) 45, Andrew Burns, Michael Hughes (Leonay) 44 c/b.
The final Interclub event for the year is at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club on Wednesday, 23rd October.
Layla Sharp in the Medals at All Schools Championships
LAYLA Sharp (Cranebrook / Emmaus Catholic College) has finished on the victory podium at each of her three events at the All Schools Athletics Championships, winning Gold in the 800m, Silver in 200m and Bronze in 100m.
Those results have enabled Layla to qualify for the National All-Schools Championships, which will be held in Brisbane over 5-14th December.
Layla will race in both the 800m and 200m at the Nationals.
SMSP hosts Motor Race Championship Round 6
SYDNEY Motorsport Park (SMSP) hosted the 2024 Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championship over the weekend of the 28-29th September, which included Round 4 of the 2024 MARC Cars Australia Championship. Categories featured on the day were Excels (3 races), HQ Holdens (3 races), Formula Ford (3 races), Superkarts (3 races), Production Touring Enduro (3 races), RX-8 Cup (4 races) and Production Sports / Sports Sedans / Marc (4 races).
A full list of results from the weekend can be found at: http:// racing.natsoft.com.au/results/#2
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Layla Sharp with her collection of medals from the NSW All-Schools Athletic Championships.
Photo supplied
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Photos courtesy of Steve Koen
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Polo clubs vying for the Countess of Dudley Cup
AFTER losing the planned opening two days of play in the Countess of Dudley Cup due to rain, the tournament got under way on Saturday 28th September, played over the weekend at Arunga and Kurri Burri grounds.
With 12 teams playing in the cup and other tournaments in the district, the Hawkesbury is currently a hive of activity, with 35 teams playing last weekend across 4 grades.
This prestigious trophy was originally presented by the Countess of Dudley, with Narromine Polo Club the first winners in 1910.
There are 12 teams entered for the Cup, including Ellerston White, Ellerston Red and Ellerston Gardenvale (Hunter Valley), Scone Pinnacle and Scone AEC (Scone), Swan Valley Sandalford (WA), Larapinta Green, Larapinta Red (QLD), Arunga,
Killarney White Deer Park, Town & Country, Windsor Troika (Hawkesbury)
Results to date are: Day One: Ellerston Blue (Hunter Valley) won 7-6 over Windsor Troika (Hawkesbury); Scone Pinnacle (Scone) 12-7 over Town & Country (Hawkesbury); Scone AEC (Scone) 15-6 over Swan Valley Sandalford (WA); Ellerston White (Hunter Valley) 9-7 over Arunga (Hawkesbury). Day Two: Scone Pinnacle (Scone) 11-6 over Swan Valley Sandalford (WA); Scone AEC (Scone) won 12-7 over Town & Country (Hawkesbury); Larapinta Green (QLD) 11-10 over Ellerston Gardenvale (Hunter Valley); Killarney White Deer Park (Hawkesbury) 8-5 over Larapinta Red (QLD). Day Three: Larapinta Green (QLD) 11-9 over Windsor Troika (Hawkesbury), Ellerston Gardenvale (Hunter Valley) 14-7 over Ellerston Blue (Hunter Valley).
The semi-finals of the 3 x 12-goal divisions, being the Countess of Dudley Cup (top four teams
after regular rounds), the Hector King Trophy (next four teams) and the Sir JJ Garvan Cup (remaining four teams) will be played on Saturday, followed by the Finals on Sunday.
Details of results, the remaining draw and scheduled times for Friday through to Sunday can be found on the NSW Polo website / FB page, Windsor Polo Club website / FB page and the Polo Matchmaker FB page.
The Killarney 2-goal and Subzero tournament also ran last weekend, with the results as follows; 2 Goal Pool A - Bella Polo (Pete Martin, Jess Martin, Shannon Booth, Guy Higginson) defeated Flying Change; 2 Goal Pool B - Dowling Polo (Jack Dowling, Toby Dowling, Archie Dowling, Ant O’Leary) defeated Team Tibra/Red Dog Polo; Subzero - USYD Polo (Sam Lee / Lana Eastment, Ben Malden, Colt Kahlbetzer, Toby Goodman) defeated both Stone Real Estate and Tilboroo in a round robin.
Nepean Hockey Association wins Indoor State Title
THE Nepean hockey Association (NHA) sent two teams to the Hockey NSW Women’s Indoor State Championships in Goulburn last weekend, competing in Division One and Division Two and making the Final in both.
The Division 2 final was a hardfought battle against New England, in which Nepean took an early lead and held on for almost the entire game, only for New England to score the equaliser in the dying seconds.
This sent the game into a shootout, where three players are selected to take on the opposing goalie one-onone. Nepean goalie Liliana Turner was sensational in the net, keeping New England to just one goal, whilst Summer Knowles was the lone goal scorer for Nepean to create another tie.
Summer Knowles scored again in a sudden-death shootout to give Nepean the advantage, before Liliana kept New England out with her final oneon-one to give Nepean victory.
Unfortunately, the Division One Final didn’t favour Nepean, going down to a strong Illawarra side.
“It was a massive weekend for Nepean, with both teams making the Final, something Nepean has never done before,” said Ryan Knowles.
State teams will be announced on Tuesday afternoon and the NHA is expecting a large contingent of players to be selected.
The NHA will also be sending three teams to the Hockey NSW Men’s Indoor State Championships on the 1113th October, which is also being held in Goulburn.
NHA Publicity Officer Jan Harrison reports the Association’s Grand Finals were held on the 6th September, ending
the Winter season for field hockey.
The Panthers Club dominated, winning all Grand Finals except one.
Women’s A Grade: Panthers defeated Blaxland 4-1; 2nd Grade: Panthers defeated Richmond 4-0; Men’s A Grade: Panthers def Rooty Hill 3-1; Division 2: Rebecca Howard was presented with the Presidents Trophy, whilst Blaxland Umpire Kaylea Webb was awarded the Pam Nelson Umpires Trophy.
At the Sydney Olympic Hockey venue, the NHA Ladies Masters team won their division and the NHA Men also won Masters for the second year.
“With field hockey at an end, we now move onto the Indoor State Titles, in all junior ages, senior Men and Women and Masters Men and Women.
Ryan Knowles is the Association’s top Indoor organiser and coach of several teams and he is expecting a good year for our teams.”
BY NOEL ROWSELL
Action from the Ellerston Blue vs Windsor Troika match. Photos by Noel Rowsell
BY NOEL ROWSELL
The NHA Division 1 & 2 Women’s teams. Photo supplied by Tabatha Knowles
Young Panthers Return from National Club Championships
BY NOEL ROWSELL
THE 2024 Under 14 Basketball Club Championships were held in Casey (VIC) over 22nd-27th September, with 48 teams (24 boys, 24 girls) converging on the district to compete for the national boys’ and girls’ titles.
Co-hosted by Basketball Australia and the Casey Basketball Association, the best 48 club teams from around Australia competed in the tournament, including a boys’ team and a girls’ team from the Penrith Basketball Association.
A spokesperson for the Penrith Association said “Congratulations to our Under 14 Boys and Girls on an incredible Australian Clubs Championship.
“At the end of first round games, teams were split into either Championship Division (Teams placed 1 to 12) or Shield Division (Teams placed 13 to 25).
“The Penrith boys qualified for the Championship Division and finished the tournament 10th overall. The Penrith girls qualified for the Shield division and finished the tournament with a bronze medal, and 15th overall.
“Congratulations to both teams and
staff on these amazing results.”
Girls results: 52-47 win over Warwick Senators, 52-30 loss to Melbourne Tigers, 79-31 loss to South Adelaide Panthers, 73-38 win
over Darwin Cyclones, 59-52 loss to Canberra, 53-41 win over Ipswich Force.
Boys results: 88-76 over Maffra Eagles, 71-68 win over Logan
Thunder, 72-69 win over Sturt Sabres, 57-51 loss to Willeton Tigers, 97-50 loss to Casey Cavaliers, 71-59 win over Hills District Hornets, 103-65 loss to South West Metro Pirates.
Innovation Roof Restoration
The Penrith U14 Boys and Girls teams at the National Championships - photo supplied
