Nepeannews 4sept 2014

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Thursday, 4 September 2014

ISSUE 132

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WELCOMING THE BABIES Luke, Jessica and baby Olive from Glenmore Park and Fiona Scott, Federal Member for Lindsay.

Join Ms Scott at her Welcoming the Babies ceremony at Westfield Penrith on Saturday 27 September.

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

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Welcoming the babies FIONA Scott, Federal Member for Lindsay and Westfield Penrith are inviting all new parents and their extended families to a special “Welcoming the Babies” ceremony at Westfield Penrith on Saturday 27 September.

“The ceremony will celebrate and welcome all new births in our local community and say “thank you” to parents and guardians for the important job they do,” Fiona Scott said.

“It is also a time for new parents to say thank you to their extended families for the help received in supporting them and their new bundle of joy.

“This is a wonderful event which recognises the fantastic job new parents do and making them feel part of the wider community,” Fiona Scott added.

Paul Stonebridge, Centre Manager, Westfield Penrith is pleased to partner with Fiona Scott for this important community event.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Westfield Penrith to connect with young families across the local community and welcome them to our Centre. There will be fun for the whole family with facepainting and fairy floss on the day,” Paul Stonebridge said.

“I encourage all new parents to register their babies and come along to help us celebrate this very special Welcoming the Babies,” Fiona Scott added.

Every baby up to 18 months who registers

will receive a certificate of welcome and gift bag.

Welcoming the Babies will take place in Centre Court, Westfield Penrith at 11am on Saturday 27 September.

If you would like to register your baby or toddler for a certificate, please email Fiona.Scott.

MP@aph.gov.au or phone 4731 3700.

Registrations close Friday 19 September.

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From the Editor’s Desk

4 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

by Kerrie Martin

203 BANKS DRIVE, ST CLAIR OFFICE: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: Sales Manager: Advertising Representative: Journalist: Journalist: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Martin 0422 067 644 Korena Hale 0403 045 880 Sergio Carrasco 0413 461 017 Annette Thain 0425 073 331 Greg “Harpo” Martin 0420 655 524 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.nepeannews.com.au

Nepean News is not tossed onto your front lawn. Collect your crisp copy FREE from local newsagents, service stations, libraries, Council and shopping centres.

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

LIKE everyone else I was horrified to hear about Dr Suresh Nair, a neurosurgeon who continued to operate at Nepean Private Hospital despite glaring signals that he was battling a cocaine addiction.

The investigative report that aired recently on Four Corners showed a man clearly on the brink of disaster; spending tens of thousands of dollars on sessions with copious amounts of cocaine and prostitutes before performing delicate and often life-saving surgery on unsuspecting patients.

His double life eventually caught up with him following the deaths of two sex workers who had overdosed on cocaine were found in his apartment. Warning bells were also chimed by Nepean Hospital staff and at least two patients have since said they were left much worse off following surgery performed by Dr Nair.

Perhaps we are too quick to assume that a doctor - a surgeon no less - would somehow be immune to addictions, personality disorders and the tendency to misbehave.

But it appears at least in this case, that just about every activity we would assume a surgeon would not get involved in, has been a favourite pastime for this bloke.

Colleagues saw and spoke up about the warning signs, but somehow there was a disconnect in that information equating to him being taken off the tools.

Dr Nair was last week sentenced to a maximum term of 10 years which was reduced to five years and three months following the death of an escort from cocaine overdose, in which the court heard he had administered but failed to call an ambulance when she was struggling to breathe. So he’s gone, but the case should serve as a warning that reporting systems within the health industry need to improve immediately. kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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Cheque for expo MINISTER for Disability Services John Ajaka and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres have provided $5,000 in funding for the Nepean Disability Expo.

Mr Ajaka said the expo is a biennial event held in the Nepean Blue Mountains District, which connects people with disability who live in the Nepean, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, Western Sydney and broader Sydney area. The expo will be held on the 12th and 13th of September.

“The rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will mean that about 50,000 more people will receive additional support in NSW,” Mr Ajaka said.

“Almost 14,000 of those people live in the Nepean region, and will gain greater control over their lives, and the services they choose.

“This expo will give those people a chance to find out about the latest products, services, technology, aids and equipment.

“Likewise, it’s a chance for service

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Mr Ayres said that the NSW Government will have a stall to provide visitors with information about services provided and about the NDIS. “I am delighted to hand over this cheque to NADO, the lead organisers of the expo, and I wish them all the best for a successful two days,” Mr Ayres said.

“I encourage the local community - whether they have a disability, care for someone with a disability, or provide a disability service, to get to the expo and make valuable connections.”

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5 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Fernhill Picnic Races are back!

Following on from last year’s inaugural event, Fernhill Estate in conjunction with Hawkesbury Race Club, is once again bringing country racing to Sydney. The Fernhill Picnic Race Day will be held on Saturday 18 October and promises to be an unforgettable event.

Located just 10 minutes from Penrith, Fernhill Estate is set on 1,800 acres in the Mulgoa Valley. To visit the property and take in its 200-year history is genuinely breathtaking. It’s sloping green hills and ancient trees make it the perfect place for relaxation while its stables and track have led to it being a working enterprise in the equestrian world. Centre to the Fernhill experience is the heritage listed sandstone mansion, built from sandstone quarried on the property by convicts and constructed by 20 Irish stonemasons brought out under the ‘bounty system’ of immigration.

“Last year’s Picnics was amazingly successful for an inaugural event,” said Mrs Brenda Tripp, Fernhill Estate Owner and CEO. “There were a few operational issues as you’d expect, but the great thing is they will be rectifiable for this year. There will be more shade and easier car park access to ensure everyone has the most enjoyable day. The new date, coinciding with Caulfield Cup Day in Melbourne, will also give everyone the chance to soak up the atmosphere of the Spring Racing Carnival.”

2GB’s Ray Hadley will be back to commentate the six race program but the action doesn’t stop on the track. Female fashion will be a drawcard via

the Luv My Bag Fashions on the Field competition, children will be thoroughly entertained with a range of activities in the Outback Steakhouse Family Zone, whilst the Food Fare will offer local and international cuisine to tickle the tastebuds. Live music including the popular post-race concert will again feature, and one lucky patron will win a holiday to Hamilton Island!

General admission tickets are $30 pre-purchased

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Alternatively upgrade and book into one of the fine dining options available.

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Commando vehicles assembled locally FIONA Scott, Federal Member for Lindsay announced with the Minister for Defence, Senator David Johnston that St Marys engineering company Baker and Provan will benefit from a $130 million Defence project.

A multi-million dollar contract awarded to Supacat Ltd will supply 89 Special Operations Commando Vehicles to the Australian Defence Force.

The vehicles will be assembled

by Baker and Proven in St Marys creating an additional 55 jobs for the region.

“I congratulate Baker and Proven on playing such an important role in delivering these 89 special vehicles for the Australian Defence Force, This is a testament to the skills, expertise and businesses in our local region,” Fiona Scott said.

“I met with Peter Baker in April this year and was extremely impressed with the high quality and innovative machinery he and his team deliver right across Australia.

“The building of these vehicles will enhance our Special Forces’ ability and is yet another important step in the continued enhancement and modernisation of the ADF to provide for a safe and secure Australia,” Fiona

Photos: Greg Davies

Scott added.

Peter Baker, Director, Baker and Proven welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Defence and local member, Fiona Scott.

“Baker and Provan are delighted to be the assembly partner of Supacat for this significant defence contract,” Peter Baker said.

“We have a long history in delivering industry leading and highly specialised machinery right here from St Marys.

“I am extremely pleased to have such a supportive local member who continues to engage with businesses like ours right across our community,” Peter Baker added.

7 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Top Bloke

Time to get your hand off it

By Kerrie Martin

YOU can imagine that a stint in hospital is a scary time for any child, and local resident Robert Banko does his bit to make the visit a little fun.

Robert donates handmade toy kennels to Nepean Hospital’s Children’s Ward twice a year.

The kennels are given to sick kids in the ward to brighten their stay.

Robert has been making the kennels and donating them to the hospital for four years.

He purchases small dog toys and makes kennels to go with each.

What a great bloke , well done Robert!

MOST of us have been there - having a conversation with someone and all you can see is the top end of their melon because their head is constantly dipped downwards while they’re checking their phone.

Sure, they’ll give you the polite “oohs’ and ‘yeahs’ where required, but it’s pretty obvious that they’re far more interested in what’s happening in facebook or twitter world than that which is right in front of them - you!

It’s incredibly annoying, and if you don’t agree with me you’re probably one of the head-dipped folk!

Sure, I’m guilty of spending ridiculous amounts of time on my phone too - so much so that my battery rarely lasts a full day.

The amount of things we can do on a smart phone is incredible - check email, send messages, check our bank accounts, play games, google things, watch the 24 hour news cycle and of course sticky beak at what everyone else is doing on facebook.

But at the risk of sounding like Jaqui Lambie making another outlandish claim - I declare that out-of-control phone use will end in mass sackings, divorce, and even death!

Sackings, you ask?

On any given day you can find full-time employed

people making in excess of 10 posts on facebook. Doesn’t take a genius to work out where their focus is! Even more bizarre are those who feel the need to disclose information that should never leave the office walls or vent publicly how much their job stinks. Hello? You’re not just writing that in your own private diary; you may as well post it on an illuminated billboard in the heart of Broadway.

Divorce?

Most people will tire pretty quickly of looking at a dipped-head for a spouse, not to mention those of us who take our phones to bed every night. It’s a bedroom threesome that has trouble written all over it.

Death?

Now here’s the really serious part, and I’m not talking about your brain being fried by radiation which is something that hasn’t yet been entirely proven one way or the other.

I’m talking about texting and facebook-checking drivers.

They’re more trouble than a drunk with 15 beers under his belt getting behind the wheel - and we all know how that scenario often plays out. It’s a disaster waiting to happen - in fact it is already happening. Forget worrying about being tagged in a facebook photo while you’re driving from A to B - or the next time your photo gets tagged it could be on an RIP page in your honour.

So the message should be loud and clear, for goodness sake, GET YOUR HAND OFF IT.

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A SONOGRAPHER in the Perinatal Ultrasound Department at Nepean Hospital has won a prestigious award from the Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ)for her pioneering research into high risk pregnancies.

Narelle Kennedy travelled to Queenstown, New Zealand to accept the Poster Award for ‘Best Poster Presentation and Research’ at the SOMANZ and Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society Joint Scientific Meeting in July this year.

Narelle’s research, which measures the thickness of subcutaneous fat, predominantly found around the central part of the body, is part of her PhD studies through the University of Sydney Medical School at Nepean.

“Our group at Nepean Medical School, Sydney University, is the first to measure subcutaneous fat in pregnancy to assess its ability to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes,” said Narelle.

“This simple measurement performed during routine pregnancy examinations, has shown to be superior to body mass index (BMI) measurements when assessing risks to these women.”

The study found that measuring subcutaneous fat in pregnant women using ultrasound makes it possible to predict adverse pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertensive disease and caesarean section.

“If implemented, these findings have the potential to make it

easier to triage high risk women and could contribute to better outcomes by providing appropriate care,” Narelle said.

“I was very proud to receive the award, it is great to get acknowledgment from SOMANZ and I look forward to continuing with the research.”

Seniors grants STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith is reminding Penrith community organisations to submit applications for the 2015 NSW Seniors Week Grants as they close on 19 September.

“The success of NSW Seniors Week relies on involvement from local organisations.

Grants are allocated to volunteer; local government and community organisations that plan to hold events during Seniors week,” said Stuart Ayres 2015 Seniors Week will be held from 14 to 22 March.

The NSW Government has allocated $200,000 for the 2015 NSW Seniors Week Grants program.

“Senior citizens make up a strong proportion of our community and this is an important opportunity for local organisations to join the celebrations,” said Stuart Ayres Applications for the 2015 NSW Seniors Week Grants program close on Friday, 19 September 2014 and must be submitted online at www. nswseniorsweek.com.au.

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

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NOVENA

THANK YOU

Lord Jesus for all the blessings given to my family. May the name of sacred heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and praised throughout the world for ever.

Amen. RDS.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to the editor to kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

I’M a 41 year old unemployed office worker in the Penrith area. Unable to find a job I had to start work for the dole last Wednesday. I ended up being sent to a community church which is in the process of relocating from one side of Penrith to the other. I and three younger Work for the Dole participants (I’d say they were in their twenties) ended up working in a factory building which is currently in the process of being renovated for the move and due to this looks like a construction site.

Our task was to remove foam tiles from the internal ceiling so they could be painted black and then placed back in the ceiling.

Working up a ladder more than two metres off the ground with air conditioning ducting & hoses, crumbling pink bats, a variety of loose cabling including power cabling & computer network cables and any other nasty pieces of grit and debris that accumulates in a factory roof we were left unsupervised for most of the day. We’d go to remove one ceiling tile and nothing would happen but move to the next and we had cables and all sorts of things falling on us. It did not feel safe and felt like work that accredited tradesmen should be doing. Any one of those wires could have been live as the florescent lights around us were all switched on.

We were basically being used as unpaid labour for the day so this church could save some money on their renovations by not hiring tradesmen.

Can anyone please explain to me how being forced into carrying out unsafe construction work none of us are even remotely qualified for is going to help me or any of the younger people on site that day find a job ?

Jason Brown

MARK Geyer - I love reading your page mate. You always hit the nail right on the head and its tops to see that even with all your fame you are a Penrith boy through and through. Ten out of ten mate.

Darren Hogan The editor has decided that this edition’s star letter goes to Darren from Werrington.

Darren has won a dinner and show for 4 at the Major Oak Theatre Restaurant.

Send your letters to kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

WITH all these state politicians being found corrupt or under investigation for maybe being corrupt, isn’t it about time we had the discussion about whether we’d be better off without this middle tier of government? I feel we would be much better off with a federal governing body and local councils running the show and the state government is just becoming a farce anyway.

Mr Buttiegig HEY Panthers supporters out there! Our boys have thrown their hearts and souls into making us proud to be Panther fans. Lets all get behind them on Sunday and show our support by getting to the home game. Up the Panthers!

Peter Fields

local news

By Greg Martin

ST CLAIR’S Louis Galea is certainly one man who can aim up!

Not only on the rifle range where he is a valued member of the Cecil Park Clay Target Club but in fundraising for the Nepean Hospital Cancer Care Centre.

Louis has been aiming his trusty rifle for many years at clay target ranges but it is only in recent years that he has become experienced with the Nepean Hospital Cancer Care Centre.

That was early last year when he was diagnosed with Lymphoma in the groin.

Thanks to the unstinting skills and support of the folk at the NHCCC, Louis’s cancer is now in remission and he is back doing what he does so well on rifle ranges - hitting the targets.

And he certainly hit the target when he and his devoted wife, Mary, decided to organise a Charity Shoot at Cecil Park last month, with all proceeds going to the NHCCC. Dead-eye Dicks and Janes from all over NSW converged on Cecil Park for the shoot which, after a big

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Louis hits target in fundraising

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Charity Shooter winners on the day were (l-r) Peter Shiaills, Nick Xenos, Charlie Cherry, Karen Berry, Amdy Tsokalis and Suet Duresh.

On target! Mary and Louis Galea.

day in the field, raised $8500.

The money was raised through sponsorship from such companies as the Horsley Park Gun Shop, Australian Sporting Arms, VG Auto Paints and Jeff Woods, the postmaster at North Richmond

Post Office, a raffle and impromptu auction.

Louis and Mary sold 1000 $1 tickets in the raffle in which the prize was a rifle with ‘scope and bag donated by Horsley Gun Shop.

“Louis bought $100 worth of tickets and one of his tickets won when the raffle was drawn during the shoot,” Mary said.

“He decided to auction the rifle and it bought another $720 when it went under the hammer!”

Louis jumped at the opportunity to raise funds for the NHCC and he, Mary and another club member, Vince Gatt, spent six months organising the big shoot and fundraising day.

“I could never thank the staff at the centre enough for what they did for me,” said Louis.

“If it wasn’t for them, I might not be here today – they were absolutely wonderful!

And Mr Louis Galea, so too are you!

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Walking Wonders at Emmaus A VISITOR or passerby near Emmaus Catholic College at Kemps Creek on Friday, 8th August may well have been confused. Was this Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales being re-enacted?

Not so, for there’s a Batmobile, a Disney group, assorted TV characters all smiling, all walking, talking and laughing, obviously on some pilgrimage.

The occasion was the 2014 Emmaus

Walk. Classes were suspended for the day and College staff were reminded to leave desks, computers and staff rooms, to be outside and involved in the many activities of the day.

Aleisha De Fague, one of the College Captains for 2015, said, “’We expect more’ is a saying we have at Emmaus. I think the Walk Day met all our expectations. It was a fun, involved day from start to finish”.

Bradley Smith, also a College Captain for 2015 agreed. “I’ve been to previous walkathons during my years here”, he said, “they were fun experiences too, but this year the organisation and planning of the day was really superb”. Commenting on how they saw the community in action, Aleisha and Bradley felt the wholehearted engagement of the staff was a major factor in the day’s success.

“To see the teachers and support staff in their costumes was just such positive proof of how we operate here at Emmaus”, said Aleisha.

With Principal, Dr Brad Campbell exchanging his normal professional dress for a Batman costume, aided and supported by Assistant Principal Michael Pate as Robin, and Executive member Chris Welch as Superman

lurking nearby, the scene was set for a virtual parade. Medieval characters walked side by side with well-known TV characters such as Alice from the Brady Bunch, otherwise known as Emmaus receptionist, Lyn Weller.

There were pretty maids, German dancers - even a religious sister or two.

Students were in bright colourful costumes as they undertook the Walk.

Along the route there were drink stations and a First Aid station which fortunately was not needed. The funds raised through sponsorship will be used for the construction of shades for the bus area, which will be of comfort in hot and wet weather.

The fun didn’t end when walkers

returned to the finishing point on the College oval. Rides and entertainment, a BBQ lunch, Dodgem cars, a giant slide, ‘Hurricane’, ‘Disco Show’ and a Jumping Castle added to the fun of the day.

“Everything came together so well”, concluded Aleisha. “The fund raising for our bus area shade, the getting together of juniors, seniors, staff, and then all the activities to end the day”.

“It was so positive and just had such a spirit about it. We hope a community day like this will find a permanent place on future Emmaus calendars and we appreciate the effort and enthusiasm of our Principal and all the College staff”, affirmed Bradley.

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Festival location: The Festival is held in Queen Street St Marys between 9am and 4pm.

It requires the closure of Queen Street and sections of side streets between 7am and 7pm.

The following road closures are required between 7am and 7pm: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Queen Street between King Street and Nariel Street; Crana Street between Queen Street and West Lane; Chapel Street between Queen Street and East Lane; Charles Hackett Drive between Queen Street and Carinya Avenue; Belar Street between Queen Street and West Lane; Phillip Street between Queen Street and East Lane; and West Lane between Charles Hackett Drive and Crana Street.

Parade route: Between 12.30pm and 1.30pm a moving event is conducted in the form of a

parade made up of floats and walking groups. The Parade participants assemble in and around Jack Jewry Reserve and about 12.30pm commence to move off and travel the approximate 350 metres to the Queen Street Festival area. They will travel east on Merinda Street, turn left and travel north on Carinya Avenue, turn right and travel east on Nariel Street and then turn right and enter the Queen Street Festival area at the Nariel Street barrier point. They will travel south along Queen Street and leave the Festival area at the King Street barrier point turning right into Carsons Lane and then right into Bowlers Place where they will disperse.

To facilitate the movement of the parade, the following road closures are required: Between 12.15pm and 1.15pm: 1. Merinda Street between Acacia Avenue and Carinya Avenue; 2. Carinya Avenue between Merinda Street and Nariel Street; 3. Nariel Street between Carinya Avenue and Queen Street.

Between 12.30pm and 1.30pm: (d) Carsons Lane.

Alternate route for general motor vehicle traffic:

Vehicles that normally use Queen Street to gain access to St Marys Railway Station can gain such access by using Glossop Street and Phillip Street or Glossop Street and Harris Street.

Vehicles that usually use Queen Street to make deliveries to business premises in that street can make such deliveries at the rear of the premises using East Lane or West Lane.

local news

By Kerrie Martin

GET ready X Factor fans and lovers of Australian talent, because the sensational Nathaniel is hitting the stage at the St Marys Spring Festival this Saturday!

With his smoldering good looks and incredible vocal range, it’s no surprise that Nathaniel’s star is well and truly rising.

Originally hailing from Capetown in South Africa, he moved to Australia at just six years old and lives in Melbourne. This will be his first visit to St Marys, and I asked him if he was prepped and ready for all the screaming girls?

“I’m always ready for that!”

Nathaniel said.

Following TV appearances on Australian Idol and more recently, X Factor, Nathaniel has been a busy boy.

The 29 year old has been touring, gigging, writing songs and playing instruments.

“I’m glad to have had the

opportunity to perfect my craft,” Nathaniel said. “it has also given me a chance to travel - I’ve been to America and Sweden, writing and recording.”

Nathaniel is grateful for the opportunities that his TV appearances have provided, but says that talent reality shows are not for the fainthearted.

“I think it takes a certain type of person to be able to face that fear and anxiety week in, week out,” he said.

“You’re put in a pretty vulnerable place, pouring your heart and soul into a performance on national TV, it’s pretty nerve racking!”

His latest single ‘LIVE LOUDER’ is obviously an accomplishment that Nathaniel is very proud of.

‘It has encouraged me to break out of my comfort zone and I hope that this also resonates with everyone who hears it,” he said.

“I want ‘LIVE LOUDER’ to encourage people to make the most of life, never waste a moment and to not have any regrets. Remember to turn

Candidate announced

up the volume of your life!”

Recognised by his soulful voice and smooth style, Nathaniel launched himself in to the spotlight with the release of his debut single ‘YOU’ late last year. Setting the hearts of Australians on fire, ‘YOU’ went on to hit the Top 5 on the ARIA Singles Chart, selling over 200,000 copies and achieving Double Platinum accreditation.

Along with his follow up single ‘YOU‘RE BEAUTIFUL’, Nathaniel has truly embedded himself in the Australian music scene as a respected solo artist and ‘LIVE LOUDER’ is bound to propel him even further.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see Nathaniel at the St Marys Spring Festival on September 6.

COUNCILLOR Bernard Bratusa is the Liberal Candidate for L o n d o n d e r r y.

The seat of Londonderry is currently held by Bart Bassett, who is not contesting the seat in the next state election in March next year.

Bernard Bratusa has lived in Penrith for over 30 years. He was the Managing Editor for The Western Weekender and has had several roles advising Liberal Members of Parliament and Ministers.

“I’m dedicated to promoting the local economy, businesses and community events,” Cr Bratusa states on his facebook site.

“As the Liberal Candidate for Londonderry, I am committed to continuing the good work of the Mike Baird Liberal Team and will fight to ensure essential services such as health, transport and education are delivered to Londonderry.”

To follow Cr Bratusa on facebook, go to Bernard Bratusa Liberal Candidate for Londonderry.

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Nathaniel hits St Marys stage

13

14

local news

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Teeing off to help raise funds THE Minister for Health and Minister for Sport, Peter Dutton, joined Federal Member for Lindsay Fiona Scott, Penrith Panther footballers, local celebrities and business leaders to help raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer.

The day at the Dunheved Golf Club, in the Nepean Valley, was hosted by the Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group.

“The event combines both my portfolios of Health and Sport and is very timely as September is International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month,” Mr Dutton said.

“Although prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men, we have one of the best survival rates in the world.

“The support that organisations such as the Nepean Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group provide to men with, or at risk of, prostate cancer, and their carers and families is invaluable.

“Prostate cancer can be overwhelming and certainly emotional for all involved. Through events like this, the community becomes involved and more aware of the importance of quality support. As well, much needed

funds are raised for continued support and research.

“The Australian Government is committed to delivering better and more effective health services and this is evidenced by our recent announcement of additional prostate care nurses around Australia, particularly in rural and regional areas,” Mr Dutton added.

Fiona Scott, Federal Member for Lindsay, was pleased to invite the Minister to this important local event.

“This event provided a unique opportunity for me to invite Peter to our region to see the great work our local community groups do in supporting each other,” Ms Scott said.

“The Prostate Cancer Foundation estimates around 120,000 Australian men are currently diagnosed and this is expected to more than double to 267,000 by 2017.

“David Wilkinson, Barry Dukes and their team did a great job organising the event,” she said.

The Australian Government is committed to improving support for patients, their families and carers with $6.2 million over four years provided to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia to more than double

the current number of prostate care nurses supported by the Foundation - bringing the total number across Australia to 26.

The Nepean Blue Mountains

Prostate Cancer Support Group helps support local men with prostate cancer and their carers and the money raised from the charity golf day will go towards this important cause.

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If you die without a will, the government is obligated to intervene and freeze your assets while they review your estate, potentially leaving your family without access to money for bills or living expenses.

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WELL folks the good news is, its only 16 Fridays until Christmas (Yippee…sigh) and winter is almost over (Yippee with back flip and pelvic thrust). I dunno about you people, but I reckon winter is like a prison sentence and quite frankly you get less time for murder than a stint in a Penrith winter. I have stalagmites and stalactites in places that should be illegal. Friggin’ snow, rain, sleet... where’s the sun? Just Sayn.

I must say that I am extremely humbled by the amount of people who say they read my Gspot and it reaches out to them in some way.

They even share their experiences with me, such as the lady that said she read the story about us guarding a wet square of concrete that was about as interesting as paint drying. She stated that guarding a wet slab of concrete would have been great in the case of the mongrel cat from across the road walking over her outback area,

and leaving paw prints in the wet concrete. A local group that changed the way they deliver money to the bank because I highlighted in a story of how stupid people are (I mean, how complacent people may be at times).

A wonderful group of golden oldies that share my Gspot around at a local nursing home, apparently one laughed so hard that he swallowed his dentures and almost choked, however thankfully, after being revived and hospitalised, the Hospital also had my Gspot there and he was able to continue reading while getting his oesophagus pumped for floating crowns. Bonus!

I was asked by an avid celebrity crazed-type fan one day, where I get my inspiration for stories from -as he plonked himself down beside me, gorging himself on something that looked like a subway or a scene from evil dead.

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

I explained that I simply write about my life experiences, to help enlighten and fulfil the needs of my avid and most dedicated loyal readers.

Then as he finished off whatever the hell he was eating, he burped and said “So what’s ya next story about darl?”, as he missed a gherkin onto his t-shirt and back snorted 15 years worth of phlegm. With puppy eyes, he waited on my answer…..

Well, I stated, the next story will be about a lovely (good looking and young-looking lady) that was sitting quietly doing traffic control and security (minding her own business), when a gentleman with his fly down and half his bum crack hanging out, eating a subway in a way that should only be suitable for a crime scene, politely asks her how she gets her inspiration for stories?

Elated, he then jumped up and said “I can’t wait to read that”!

Yes folks I’ve had some

wonderful experiences in my 26 years doing security, I was driving through Badgerys Creek the other day and remembered many many moons ago, guarding the gate of the electricity site “Transgrid” in 45 degree heat , during the Gulf War and there was a bull that had a “ Bull Crush” on me.

He spent 12 hours trying to …well seduce me so to speak, then I sat in my car and he got so frustrated that he nudged the side of my car, the side of the car ended up having more hits than Elvis ever had by the end of the shift.

So there you have it, we have covered winter and how it sucks, throwing my Gspot (column) around a nursing home and causing an injury, answering avid fan’s inspirational questions, while learning a new technique of eating a subway and sharing bodily functions.

Please note that no Bulls were harmed in the writing of this column.

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

THE G SPOT

15

16 Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

COMING from a missionary background, I was not acquainted with the G-Spot until I began contributing articles to this fine publication.

Finally learning about the G-Spot opened up a whole new world for your writer.

I am of course referring to informative and always hilarious The G-Spot column which regularly graces these pages.

It is written by Gina Field, who as well as being a well-respected and highly successful businesswoman, really is Australia’s very own version of Phyllis Diller or Joan Rivers.

It wouldn’t surprise me that my editor, in requesting a regular column about security from Gina, didn’t think: “Crikey (she wouldn’t say ‘crikey’ but something harder), what can Gina write about security on a regular basis to keep our readers interested”.

But time-after-time, Gina produces her jottings to the delight of all our readers.

If you can’t get any joy out of The G-Spot, well you’re not really trying!

Gina’s perspective on life which makes her column such an interesting read, has been garnered by spending all her working life in the security game.

A game in which she has met people from all walks of life – the princes, the paupers, the needy, the greedy, the scoundrels and scallywags – and the just plain stupid.

The “stupid” regularly provide fodder for thought when Gina is compiling her column.

Gina is the principal at Nepean Regional Security, a multi-award winning company which has developed a reputation as one of the premier firms in the security business.

She has a fleet of security vehicles across Greater Sydney and employs a staff of 40.

But it wasn’t always so!

“I started the business at home, setting up a small office in the corner of my bedroom – had to put the joint to some use,” she laughed.

That was in 1998, 10 years after she first entered the workforce out of Year 12 at Petersham High School.

Your writer asked Gina why she sought a career in the security business.

“I was always a contrary person and hated it when people told me that some particular form of work wasn’t suited for a girl,” Gina explained.

“I was very fit in those days from working out at the gym, playing squash, softball and swimming.

“But I reckon my best credential in being a successful security guard was having the gift of the gab – many, many times throughout my career, that gift of the gab has calmed situations where previously physical force was required.

“Anyway, I answered a newspaper advertisement and was one of about 50 people who turned up on the one day for an interview – I was the only woman.

“The job was with a new firm which was being set-up and the person in charge thought I was there to apply for the receptionist job but I soon set him straight.

“I reckon I got the job because of the novelty factor of having a woman security guard.

“It was tough going from the very beginning as I met resistance from my male colleagues – some refused to work with a woman because they believed I couldn’t provide any

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GINA FIELD guard dogs and was shown animals which had price tags ranging from $4000 to $10,000.

“I asked was there anything very cheap on their books that I could buy and was taken down the back and shown this mongrel-looking, fleabitten dog with a bent left foot.

“I was told, ’he’s yours for $450’ and I replied, ‘sold’.

“His name was Prince and he turned out to be the best security dog ever!

“He was so loyal and he worked with me until he was retired at 12 – the old fella lived with me for another four years before passing away – such a wonderful dog.”

Gina worked solo for three years, working seven days a week, day and night, and gradually she began to build the business.

The turning point for NRS was in 2007, a year after she married, husband, Paul.

“I put in a tender to provide security for former Sydney Olympic sites and secured the contract – business catapulted overnight,” Gina said.

Down the years since, Gina and NRS have earned a plethora of awards

Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

assistance in times of trouble.

“Clients told my employer that they should only have to pay half price for having a woman providing security to their businesses and on one occasion, an entire construction site closed down because of their refusal to have a woman security guard on the premises.

“But there were a couple of blokes who respected my work ethic and ability and they kindly allowed me to accompany them on mobile patrols on my own time.

“At the end of my time with that company I became one of the very first female mobile patrol officers in the security business.”

In 1990 Gina joined Chubb Security and during her eight years with the giant firm learned all aspects of the security game – so much in fact that she decided to start her own business.

“Yes, you could say my beginnings with Nepean National Security were very basic,” Gina again laughed.

“The office in the bedroom, driving an old clapped-out Holden Camira and buying, for just $450, a guard dog.

“I went to a kennel which sold

17

– the walls in her North Penrith office are covered with them.

The most recent award is one of which not only Gina and her staff can be proud, but all of the Nepean.

Gina Field has been awarded a bronze ‘Stevie’ at the annual and prestigious International Business Awards.

The Stevie Awards are the world’s premier business awards.

They were created in 2002 to honour and generate public recognition of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide.

There were 3500 entries across 60 nations and for Gina and NRS to gain third place is a truly remarkable achievement.

Gina says is looking forward

to jetting off to Paris in October to receive her award in front of her peers.

Gina Field is a truly remarkable woman.

Attractive, intelligent and blessed with street ‘smarts’, she has the satisfaction of gaining fulfilment and total satisfaction in what she has achieved.

Now, dear readers go and hit the G-Spot!

Gina Field was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean

by Kerrie Martin.

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

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New age jury duty STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has welcomed the announcement that people called for jury service in Penrith are reaping the benefits of a new $4.2 million online management system that is bringing the jury process into the 21st Century.

“The new system makes it simpler, faster and easier for

people to be processed when they attend court for jury service,” Stuart Ayres said.

“When they arrive at court, they will be able to check in electronically and receive a juror card, which is similar to an airport boarding pass.”

Prospective jurors now have their own secure online profile where they update their contact and banking details, apply to be excused or opt in for text and email notifications including court attendance reminders.

Stuart Ayres said the new system also makes it easier for people called for jury service in Penrith to plan ahead.

“Prospective jurors will be able

Jury duty: we’ve come a long way

to nominate two periods of up to two weeks where they can’t sit on a jury, which will come in handy if they have booked a holiday or a medical appointment,” said Stuart Ayres.

The new online jury management system replaces a 20-year-old system that was cumbersome, paper-bound and slow.

The new jury management system has more than halved jury registration processing times at many courts.

“Time is precious and the efficiency of the new jury management system is good news not only for jurors but everyone involved in the justice system,” added Stuart Ayres.

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19 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

local news

Sibling rivalry

20 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT with Dr Tony Karolis phone 1300wellpet

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

“DID you know that behavioral problems are the number one killer of dogs in Australia?”

Last week we saw two cases where aggression between dogs living in the same household lead to severe injuries.

Both cases were between siblings, and both instances left one of the two dogs very badly wounded due to bite

Nita

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

SOME people would say that their eyes would be their best feature.

Unfortunately, the same “best feature” can be subject to much ageing.

The upper eyelids in particular can experience drooping and loss of eye crease definition which can overall make a person look tired, angry, older,

wounds to the head and neck. The victims required intensive care and shock treatment for their injuries and will be healing for many weeks to come. You can see from the photos how these wounds and bruises have caused the breakdown of tissue and skin on their face. Although they look ghastly now, with time and careful wound management they will heal with minor scarring. In these cases, the dogs were fighting over food or territory.

Injuries like these are commonplace in our hospitals, and can be very severe and often life threatening. In many cases these issues can be prevented with adequate training and understanding.

We recommend early socialization and training. All puppies should attend Puppy Preschool, commencing at approximately 8 weeks. Ongoing socialization should follow for life. We also recommend ensuring your dog is desexed before 6 months of age. Your pup can be safely desexed from as young as 8 weeks of age, however we normally recommend completing their puppy vaccinations at 16 weeks before having elective surgery. Desexing your dog before sexual maturation (6 months) will decrease the risk of aggressive and territorial behaviors and also has numerous other health benefits.

These benefits include reducing their

rate of cancer, infections, hernias, and many other conditions.

The number one killer of dogs in Australia is behavior related euthanasia. Sadly, there are many very poorly trained animal behaviouralists trying to cash in on this problem. With no medical training and a few days of learning a one-size fits all approach to dog behavior, these well-meaning people often do more harm than good.

This is not a reference to dog trainers, who can teach your dog obedience.

Obedience training is for healthy dogs, that are not suffering from a psychological disorder. If you have any doubt see your vet first.

Sadly, by the time the dog is brought to the vet, the loving owner has spent all their money and energy on being told that they need to treat their dog like it is a wolf and they must dominate it. Dogs are not mini-wolves, and they suffer from far more complex issues than this approach will resolve.

If your pet is displaying problem behaviours then the first thing they need is to be thoroughly examined by your local veterinarian. Most vets will offer extended consultations to allow a thorough history and physical examination to be performed. Just as in human medicine, resolving psychological disorders in our pets takes time, patience and persistence.

Medications can help immensely, and in conjunction with behaviour modification therapy many issues can be resolved.

If your vet feels that the problem is beyond their capabilities, then they can refer you to see a Veterinary Behavioral Specialist. These vets have spent many additional years at university studying these conditions and are the most capable source of help available.

So if your pet is suffering from a behavioural problem, please call your vet. WellPet Vets can be reached on 1300 WELLPET, or 4733 3456.

Eye Rejuvenation as well as vision impaired.

The sagging of the eyelids can be due to several factors. The tendons that keep the brows in place as well as those that lift the lids may weaken, fat pads in the eyelids may descend and excess skin can develop.

There are surgical and nonsurgical treatments that can be used to rejuvenate the upper eyelids. Nonsurgical treatments include muscle relaxing and filler injections. They can be used to raise eyebrows thus reducing the eye droop.

Surgical treatment, blepharoplasty (eyelid tuck) involves removing excess

BEFORE

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skin along the crease of the eyelid.

Dr Zhen Xu, Rejuven8’s cosmetic physician consults and recommends the best procedure that suits the individual. A skin only “eye tuck” is a simple procedure, but often fat has

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Call our Clinic and book a Free Blepharoplasty Consultation with Dr Xu - 4732 4009.

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22 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Living the dream WHEN it comes to realising your dreams of being able to splash in to your very own pool, you may be surprised to learn that the best company in the country to help you do so is right here in Penrith.

The proof is in the pudding, Nepean Pools have been awarded the National Dealer of the Year for 2013/2014 by Aquatic Leisure Technologies!

Owners Maria and Romano Garofali were surprised by the accolade at a recent seminar held in Surfers Paradise.

When asked what it was about Nepean Pools that enabled them to take out the award, Romano shirked off any credit and said it all belonged to his beautiful wife Maria and their sons, Julius and Adrian.

“It was a team effort, we are a family business so we all play our part, Romano too,” Maria laughed.

“A vital part of the team is also our very loyal and dedicated staff. It was very exciting that all the hard work we’ve done has paid off.”

Maria and Romano said they were thrilled to reach such an achievement in such a short amount of time; they’ve

Ben Beale Executive Director Aquatic Leisure Technologies, Romano Garofali, Maria Garofali, Neville Fenton Export Manager Aquatic Leisure Technologies, Julius Garofali and Adrian Garofali

been selling the product for just over three years, although Romano has 30 years experience in the industry.

“It is such a great product we’ve got to work with, the shell offers lifetime interior surface guarantee and that’s something that places it above any competitor, so it makes our job

of distributing it much easier,” Maria said.

Nepean Pools are the smart choice to make when you decide to transform your backyard into a summer lover’s paradise - because they cover everything from the excavation to the installing and landscaping. So there’s

no dealing with several contractors or waiting for one part of the project to finish before commencing the next, and you know what that means right?

No headaches! A streamlined process that is professionally managed for you by the one local company.

Bliss!

And one of the best things you’ll find when organising your project with Nepean Pools is that their happiness is seeing you happy.

“Being able to deliver a great product and make our client’s vision become reality is the best reward for us,” Maria said. “Let me help you create your dream backyard!”

So what is it about the Aqua Technics product that gives them the edge and sets them apart from the rest?

Where else could you be assured of Fade Free, Quality Assured, Lifetime Warranties, Anti Microbial Protection, Superior Strength and Superior Materials?

Don’t let another summer pass you by dreaming of that ultimate swimming pool glistening in the sunshine! Do it now, call the awardwinning team at Nepean Pools today and get the ball rolling.

Get Ready For Summer!

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24 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

A delightful breath of fresh air

By Kerrie Martin

WHEN Helen Kostrubiec and Jade Fletcher met several years ago working together at a local law firm, neither had any idea that one day they would be partners in their own successful conveyancing firm.

The girls combined their experience to form Explorers Conveyancing and now they’re celebrating their fifth birthday.

When asked what it was that had guided them so easily to the milestone, they believe it is a combination of their dedication to helping people with their most important asset, their ability to overcome challenging transactions and their people skills.

“I think clients like coming here because we talk their language - we don’t confuse them with legal jargon,” Helen said.

“Yes, we explain things in terms that are easy to understand, and we’ve made so many good friends out of clients over the years,” Jade added.

“Sometimes we’ve come to like them so much that we are sorry the transaction is over - we want them to stay!” Jade laughed.

Helen and Jade are both licenced conveyancers and their knowledge of the property conveyance process is

immense.

While sitting in their office based on Explorers Way, St Clair the little

home office was a hive of activity.

We conducted the interview between a phone that constantly rang and clients popping in to say hi. These very talented girls took it all in their stride, showing that juggling several projects at once is something they do with ease!

And the thing that stuck out the most is that they absolutely love their work. They work incredibly well together, they bounce ideas off each other constantly and most of all, smile and laugh through their day. Each has a healthy respect for the other’s opinion and it’s clear to see how it all comes together so well for them.

If you are buying, selling or transferring property ownership, give Jade and Helen a call. They are a breath of fresh air and I believe you’ll thank me for making the recommendation!

Chances are you will be sorry also to say cheerio when the transaction is completed, but like many others in their massive client base, you’ll probably want to call past and say hi long after their service to you is completed. In fact, I didn’t want to wrap up the interview!

Congratulations girls, a job well done.

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26 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

nepean history

Lapstone and a Shoemaker

by Paul Innis, Historian and Tour Guide

W

henever we conduct a walking tour along Lapstone Zig Zag in the lower Blue Mountains, we like to show our guests a ‘lapstone’. We also like to tell the story of a shoemaker called William Hardman, explaining why he may be the person responsible for the name Lapstone.

Arriving in NSW in 1802, on the ship ‘Hercules’, William Hardman was one of the convicts chosen to work on the first road being built across the Mountains. He was chosen because he was a shoemaker. The leader of the road building party, William Cox, chose to include a shoemaker in his expedition, for he knew the three Explorers and Surveyor Evans – who didn’t include a shoemaker on their earlier expeditions - had encountered problems with their foot wear.

Cox didn’t want to face the same problems.

During their separate expeditions in 1813, both Blaxland and Evans mentioned the problems they were having with foot wear. On June 1st 1813, Blaxland wrote one of the reasons why the Explorers chose to return to Sydney was due to ... “clothes and shoes in particular being worn out.”

Then, on his way back from the Bathurst Plains, Evans wrote on December 30th 1813, ... “hunting kangaroo for their skins to secure our feet ... with pampoosers.” (soft fur shoes).

In the six months it took to build the first road across the Blue Mountains, (July 1814 – January 1815), William Cox described the work of the shoemaker five times. From these accounts we get an idea of the work William Hardman was doing.

The first time William Cox mentioned William Hardman was on August 18th 1814, when he wrote, “Got 2lb of shoemaker’s thread from Clarendon, and put Hardman, one of our men, to repair shoes during the week.”

On September 5th 1814 Cox wrote, “Blacksmith making shoe nails, and shoemaker mending and making shoes.” On September 12th Cox wrote, “Issued a pair of strong shoes to each man.” Later on November 27th Cox again wrote, “Issued a pair of shoes to each man” and finally on January 3rd 1815, he wrote “The cobbler finished mending the men’s shoes again.”

However, apart from mending and making shoes, I suspect William Hardman was the person responsible for the naming of the first steep eastern hill travellers had to face when they crossed the Blue Mountains, ie, Lapstone Hill.

The initial clue comes from William Cox’s journal when he described this hill on July 26th 1814. He wrote, “The ascent is steep; the soil very rough and stony.”

I’m sure William Hardman noticed the ‘stony’ ground, and amongst the stones, he quite likely saw a particular stone, commonly known by shoemakers at the time as a ‘lapstone’. Such a stone is a

 A lapstone from Lapstone.

large, flat river pebble. These stones were lying on the surface of the steep hill as a result of an ancient uplift exposed by subsequent erosion from the Nepean River.

Two hundred years ago, William Hardman knew lapstones were a necessary part of a shoe maker’s tool kit. Sole leather was placed onto the stone, and was then pounded with a hammer. This action increased the life of the sole leather through compaction of the fibres.

While there is no written account telling us that William Hardman recognised lapstones, nor named the hill after them, by 1822, only eight years after he worked there, the steep ascent was certainly known as Lapstone Hill.

Continued next issue 18th September 2014...

SHAYLEE WILDE

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28 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Red Cow – simple fare done well HERDS of people are heading to the famous Red Cow Hotel to check out the new Fatcow Kitchen.

Boasting a new head chef and a tantalising menu, you can order pub classics such as our delicious chicken parmigiana with chips & coleslaw, or a juicy scotch fillet with mash & greens right through to our new nurger range featuring our very own American style pulled pork or our Angus Beef burger served on a timber board with crispy steak fries.

The Fatcow Kitchen boasts a new head chef, a whole new posse of staff and a swag of new menus with dishes to appeal to all palates.

The new head chef is the vastly experienced and innovative Andrew Hadden whose enthusiasm and passion for quality food and service is infectious with his fellow staff members.

“It is about using and transforming simple and good quality ingredients and produce into great quality and hearty meals that shine on the plate and really hit the spot,” Andrew said.

“The Red Cow has long had a reputation for providing the best value lunches in Penrith and it is a reputation we intend to enhance.”

What about the Lunch Express Menu – yea, hah – it is a beauty.

For just $10 patrons can dine

on dishes such as a 200g rump steak, 150g chicken breast schnitzel, beer-battered fish, Angus beef burger, penne Napoli and Caesar salad.

The Lunch Express Menu, for people on the go, is available Monday-Friday between 11.30am-2.30pm.

What is also special about the Fatcow Kitchen are the daily specials.

On Thursday, there is the $15 Ribs Combo – a combination of slow braised and barbecued beef short ribs and sticky pork ribs.

There’s the Tuesday Surf ‘n’ Turf – 250g sirloin topped with prawns and hollandaise sauce – the very best food from land and sea!

But wait, there’s more!

There’s the $10 Mini Slider Burgers each Friday and the $12 Schnitzel Madness Wednesday featuring 300g chicken schnitzel or chicken parmigiana.

But there’s much more to the Red Cow Hotel than the food.

The famous watering hole hosts a Karaoke Night every Thursday featuring a $1000 cash draw on the last Thursday of the month, catering for a variety of functions and you can purchase $2.50 barista-made coffee from 7am.

The 100-year-old Red Cow Hotel has served our community with distinction across the decades and will continue to do so for many years to come.

E N T E R T A I N M E N T 30 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Step back in time

JOKES

EVENTS

476 - Romulus Augustulus, last emperor of the Western Roman Empire, is deposed when Odoacer proclaims himself “King of Italy”, thus ending the Western Roman Empire.

1666 - In London, England, the most destructive damage from the Great Fire occurs.

1781 - Los Angeles, California, is founded as El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora La Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula (The Village of Our Lady, the Queen of the Angels of Porziuncola) by 44 Spanish settlers.

1882 - Thomas Edison flips the switch to the first commercial electrical power plant in history, lighting one square mile of lower Manhattan. This is considered by many as the day that began the electrical age.

1886 - American Indian Wars: after almost 30 years of fighting, Apache leader Geronimo, with his remaining warriors, surrenders to General Nelson Miles in Arizona.

1888 - George Eastman registers the trademark Kodak and receives a patent for his camerathat uses roll film.

1951 - The first live transcontinental television broadcast takes place in San Francisco, California, from the Japanese Peace Treaty Conference.

1972 - Mark Spitz becomes the first competitor to win seven medals at a single Olympic Games.

1998 - Google is founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, two students at Stanford University.

2010 - Canterbury earthquake: a 7.1 magnitude earthquake which struck the South Island of New Zealand at 4.35am causing widespread damage and several power outages.

BIRTHS 1917 - Henry Ford II, American businessman (d. 1987).

1931 - Mitzi Gaynor, American actress, singer, and dancer.

1937 - Dawn Fraser, Australian swimmer and politician.

1949 - Tom Watson, American golfer.

DEATHS 1907 - Edvard Grieg, Norwegian pianist and composer (b. 1843).

1965 - Albert Schweitzer, French-Gabonese physician, theologian, and missionary, Nobel Prize laureate (b. 1875).

1987 - Bill Bowes, English cricketer (b. 1908).

1. One tequila, two tequila, three tequila...... floor.

2.

Atheism is a non-prophet organisation.

3. If man evolved from monkeys and apes, why do we still have monkeys and apes?

4. The main reason that Santa is so jolly is because he knows where all the bad girls live.

5. I went to a bookstore and asked the saleswoman, “where‛s the self-help section?”

She said if she told me, it would defeat the purpose.

6. What if there were no hypothetical questions?

7. If a deaf child signs swear words, does his mother wash his hands with soap?

8. If someone with multiple personalities threatens to kill himself, is it considered a hostage situation?

9. Is there another word for synonym?

10. Where do forest rangers go to “get away from it all?”

11. What do you do when you see an endangered animal eating an endangered plant?

12. If a parsley farmer is sued, can they garnish his wages?

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Swerved (8) 5 An ointment (6) 9 See-through (8) 10 Known as (archaic) (6) 12 Spring month (5) 13 Creates something new (9) 14 Chompers (6) 16 Part or serving (7) 19 Famously (7) 21 Make smaller (6) 23 Parts of a word (9) 25 Foliage (5) 26 Mar (6) 27 Something used to tie (8) 28 Gestures of indifference (6) 29 Break the heart of (8)

solution 21/8/14

DOWN 1 Brandy (6) 2 Personal discipline (9) 3 Electronic letters (5) 4 Foes (7) 6 Cured or healed (9) 7 Clumsy (5) 8 Craftsmen (8) 11 Break (4) 15 Hugging (9) 17 An inserted document (9) 18 Followers of an early heretic teaching (8) 20 Christmas time (4) 21 Relaxing (7) 22 Glue (6) 24 Outcast (5) 25 Panache (5)

32 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

E N T E R T A I N M E N T THE NEPEAN ART SOCIETY 2014 NAS Spring Art Show SPRING EXHIBITION & SALE

Saturday 13 September (9am-5pm), Sunday 14 September (10am-4pm) Admission FREE. At the former Council Chambers.

129 Henry Street, Penrith (entrance off Station Street).

Official opening 3pm Saturday by noted sculptor and painter Neil Laredo.

All welcome.

Around 120 paintings by local artists - all for sale.

RAFFLE PRIZE Framed oil painting by Guenter Barth (value $400). Tickets at show.

Drawn 4pm Sunday.

Further information: Rob Weaver 0418 791 039 or from

www.nepeanartsociety.org

AUGUST 25, 2014 - The Nepean Art Society’s annual Spring Exhibition and Sale is on in Penrith on September 13 and 14.

More than 100 original works of art will be on display – all of them for sale.

Nepean Art Society President, Joe Cartwright – himself a well-known painter – says that the show is a display of local talent.

“Most of our members are from the Nepean Valley, the Hawkesbury and the Blue Mountains, but we have members as far afield as Campbelltown and Newtown,” says Joe. We also have a group of really talented child members, and some of their work will be on display, too.”

The NAS Exhibition and Sale will be held at the society’s studio in the old Penrith Council Chambers at 129 Henry Street. The entrance is off Station Street.

Admission is free – and that includes the formal opening by noted sculptor and painter, Neil Laredo.

The show will be open from 9.00am to 5.00pm on Saturday the 13th and from 10.00am to 4.00pm on Sunday the 14th.

The official opening will be at 3.00pm on the Saturday and members of the public are welcome. “It’s a

great opportunity not only to see what local artists are doing, but to mingle with some of them,” says Joe. The raffle prize this year is a superb framed oil painting by Blue Mountains artist Guenter Barth.

Tickets will be on sale at the show.

For further information contact the society’s publicity officer Rob Weaver on 0418 791 039 or visit the society’s website www.nepeanartsociety.org

E N T E R T A I N M E N T with Reverend Ross Hutchison

One Question that never fails in gaining attention What would you do if you knew that today was your last day on the planet?

A simple question on its own, but how would you prioritise this day and what would be your order of the day?

Your family and which ones and in what order?

Could you find them or are they scattered to the four winds?

How about your friends and is there someone you meant to fix up a difference with?

Debts - or leave them for someone else? Who’s in charge of “Celebrating your life ?’

Is there someone you meant to say “ I Love You” to? Do you know how to find them ? Or have they already left for work or gone on holidays?

Would your colleagues know where to pick up from where you left things off ?

There are so many people we love, friendships so precious, animals that can mean the world to us, plus responsibilities to others.

We wouldn’t want any one of them not to know how we feel every day about them, would we?

So maybe we should have thought about them yesterday, or even the day before.

But most of all, we should never miss a chance to let everyone know how special they are to us.

Soooooo...if today is not our last one......

“Do it now!!”

Tell all those who matter. No matter where they are.

You love them!!

And how much they mean to you!

Cheers See you next week?

Your Mate, Rossco (P.S.......”I Love You !! “)

Mike’s Pantry with Mike Creed

Slow Cooker BUTTER CHICKEN INGREDIENTS: 2 onions, quartered 3 garlic cloves 4cm ginger root, peeled 1 large red chilli 8 skinless chicken thigh fillets 1T oil 25g butter 1t cumin seeds, crushed 1t fennel seeds, crushed 4 cardamom pods, crushed 1t paprika 1t ground turmeric 1/4t ground cinnamon 300ml chicken stock 1T brown sugar 2T tomato puree 5T double cream Salt and pepper for seasoning Rice, poppadum’s and naan bread.

METHOD: • If your slow cooker needs it, preheat.

• Cut each chicken thigh into four pieces and fry in batches until browned all over.

• Place onions, garlic, ginger and chilli in a mortar and pestle and crush to make a liquid paste.

• Remove chicken from the pan and place on a plate. Using the same pan, add butter, once melted, add the liquid paste and cook until it begins to colour.

• Add crushed seeds, pods and paprika and cook until fragrant (around 1 minute). Mix in stock, sugar, puree and salt and bring to the boil while stirring.

• Transfer chicken and juices to slow cooker, pour the sauce over top ensuring all chicken is pushed under the sauce. It doesn’t matter too much if there is some sticking out as you can always stir it while its cooking. Cook for 5 hours on high or 7 hours on medium.

• When ready to serve, stir in the cream and serve with rice, naan bread and poppadum’s.

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Heavens Above

33

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34

finance matters

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

SUPERANNUATION IS YOUR FRIEND - LOOK AFTER IT WITH CARE With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

YOUR half yearly superannuation statements should be arriving in the mail shortly. Are you like most Aussies and just give it a glance then file it away? I hope not!

Your superannuation is one of the most important assets you may ever own. It needs to be cared for and reviewed regularly.

The majority of people I speak to have no idea what their superannuation fund balance is and what type of funds it is invested in.

Most people will fall into one of the following categoriesI’M TOO YOUNG TO WORRY ABOUT RETIREMENTIf this is you then the mathematical brilliance of compounding is your new best friend. This is why the actual returns achieved by your funds (after fees are paid) are crucial. Every small increase in the net returns each year will compound over time and can mean you

receiving many extra tens of thousands of dollars for your retirement. Normally younger investors are happy to have a more aggressive mix of fund types with more invested in shares and less and cash and safer investments.

I’M TOO BUSY TO WORRY ABOUT MY RETIREMENTSo along comes the mortgage and kids, and work is flat out and the weekends are for relaxing. In the meantime, your superannuation fund starts to grow and so it starts to become important to you. The half yearly statements need to be read and understood and you only be the wealthier if you make sure your returns are good and you are not paying too much in fees. The older you get, the less risk most people like to take with their investment options and they take a more balanced portfolio.

You should also be reviewing your personal insurance requirements. Most Australians have a ‘don’t worry- it will be alright” attitude to insuring the most important assets you have, ie- your life, your health, total and permanent

Do you have time to compare over 30 lenders?

disability, trauma and income protection are all important.

I WISH I PAID MORE ATTENTION TO MY SUPERANUATION EARLIER! So you have almost paid off your mortgage and the kids are leaving school and you start to think about retirement.

This is when you should be increasing your contributions to your super fund and paying more attention to the net returns and fees paid from your fund.

As most people approach retirement, they want to have a more conservative mix of investments so as not to be too exposed to any downturns or market corrections like we all experienced in the Global Financial Crisis. The closer you are to retirement, the less time you have to regain any losses that may occur to the value of your fund. Most people have less need for personal insurances and so put that capital into their super fund. Don’t forget superannuation is a very tax effective way to save for your retirement.

A large number of people are opting to have their own Self-Managed

Superannuation Fund. SMSF’s are not for everyone and if you are considering having your own fund, you should seek advice. The Australian Tax Office website is a great place to start.

The bottom line is that 84 percent of Australians retire on less than $21,000 per year. Can you live on that small amount or do you want enough funds to have an annual holiday and go out for a nice meal a few times a month?

Your superannuation is very important so give it top attention and care it deserves. You will be happier and wealthier if you do!

If you would like to discuss the options that would best suit your needs and goals, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au anytime.

We can also assist with your current financial situation and any financial or Home Finance questions or problems that you may have. This information is of a general nature and you should seek expert help from a licences financial adviser who will consider your own circumstances.

Ph: 4739 4500 Mob: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

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40

sport

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Crunch time for Panthers BARRIER RISE TEAMS from Sydney’s western suburbs had mixed results at the NSW Basketball Finals Series, which were held in Maitland over the weekend.

The ‘Davlin Security’ Panthers women lost their semifinal against minor premiers Hornsby 87-76, after looking likely winners for much of the game.

2014’s Most Efficient Player Rohanee Cox had dominated for the Panthers in the opening three quarters.

The Panthers began to falter when their WNBL superstar fouled out of the action midway Rohanee Cox was the Most Efficient Player in the 2014 Waratah through the fourth term.

Championship League (WCL) competition.

Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au Hornsby rallied to tie the game 67-67 at full-time then dominated extra time to record an 11-point win 82-76 in the Division Two Youth League semiand move on to Sunday’s grand final against the finals.

Hills District Hornets.

The young Panthers would go on to record Alicia Poto led the Panthers with 29 points, a last-minute 75-74 win over the Maitland 10 boards and 6 assists, ahead of Cox 22 points Mustangs in the Division II grand final. and 10 boards and Tahlia Tupaea with 19 points.

The Blacktown West Storm Division One Hornsby subsequently showed their Youth League men’s team also lost to the appreciation at the ‘wake-up call’ from the eventual premiers in their semi-final, falling Panthers the night before, annihilating the 76-71 to the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.

Hornets 94-63 in the grand final.

Manly Warringah defeated the Northern The Panthers Youth League men defeated Suburbs Bears 84-72 in the Division One the Mt Druitt-based Blacktown West Storm Youth League grand final.

with Tony Brassel

Tony Brassel is one of the most respected judges of horseflesh in the country. He is a form expert and racing analyst with SKY Racing and radio 2KY and has now joined the Nepean News’ stable of quality journalists.

TWO terrific runs from barrier trial horses set for the big spring races when they returned from spells at Royal Randwick on August 23 – old stager Moriarty and the grand mare, Royal Descent.

Moriarty sported silks in the 1200m Show County Stakes and battled on very strongly over the unsuitable trip to wind up in fifth place of 9 runners behind Terra Vista.

Watch out for this bloke when he steps up to middle distances – crikey, it was a ‘be on me next time’ run!

Royal Descent was even more impressive with her second behind Tiger Tees in the sprint Warwick Stakes.

The mare raced in second place behind the winner to the home turn and gave plenty down to running to grab the second biggest share of the prizemoney.

On that effort, Royal Descent is set to add to her already imposing record this spring.

Two other trial tips from my last column also got to the races at Randwick that day – Any Day Will do and Lord Beckworth.

Both gallopers failed to handle the heavy conditions and will be much better suited on firm surfaces – forgive them their runs.

Now make sure you keep an eye out for the Kris Lees-trained Brook Road which was nearly strangled in finishing fourth at a recent Newcastle trial.

The NanoEnergy 3 is a high quality everyday eco-tyre that makes no compromises on performance. Low rolling resistance saves fuel, without conceding grip.

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UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

sport

A COUPLE of months ago I reported on a young bowler named Luke Millican from down at Wisemans Ferry.

Well recently Luke added another success to his resume.

With his team mates playing in the Zone 5 Fours side in the Bowls NSW Junior 7 a side competition at Figtree Bowling Club, they won the bronze medal. In the sectional play they defeated Zone 12 (Sydney Central West) 19-5, Zone 6 (Hunter River) 1411 and Zone 15 (Central Coast) 21-9.

They were defeated by Zone 16 (Illawarra) in the semifinal and then went on to defeat Zone 4 (Central West) for the bronze medal.

Well done to Luke and his team mates, Ben Cox from Orange City, William Hammond (Crookwell) and Emmett McLeod (Penrith) OVER the weekend of August 23-24 Nepean District held the Champion of Club Champions Pairs at Springwood Bowling Club and a number of clubs from the Hawkesbury area were represented.

The competition is for the Club Pairs champions in each of the clubs and they play knock out to find the champion.

Representing clubs from the Hawkesbury were Leo De Paoli and Peter Moon (Richmond), Les Stratford and Barry Cragg (Pitt Town), David Hoy and Kevin Smith (Windsor) and John Marincic and Scott Wills from Wisemans Ferry.

Pitt Town were defeated 21-12

by Blacktown City in the first round.

Windsor defeated one of the favored team Austral in the first round 16-13.

Richmond tossed Kingswood 2317 and Wisemans Ferry had a. Other results in the first round were Penrith over Wallacia 24-14 and Blacktown Workers over Springwood 16-9.

Two of the Hawkesbury clubs were drawn against each other in the second round and Richmond was successful over Wisemans Ferry by the closest of margins on the last end 20-19.

Other second round results were Glenbrook Panthers over St Marys RSL 19-16, Blacktown City over Penrith 24-7 and Blacktown Workers over Windsor 27-17.

The Hawkesbury’s last chance went begging when Richmond was defeated in one of the semi-finals by Blacktown Workers 26-12. The other semi-final was won by Glenbrook Panthers over Blacktown City again in the closest game 16-14.

Colyton/Mt Druitt Junior Rugby League Football Club

With Col Crossingham The final was a battle of the young guns with Glenbrook Panthers team being 18 and 32 and Blacktown Workers 20 and 21. It was a game worthy of a final with the score going to and fro continuously.

After 8 ends the scores were tied at 7-all but then Glenbrook started pulling away to lead 15 to 9 after 15 ends. Glenbrook finished strongly to take the title 21-13.

Jono and Greg will now represent the District in the Zone playoffs in September.

WISESMANS Ferry Bowling Club will be hosting one of the Nepean District’s major events on September 27-28.

The event is called the Les Bell Cup and is named after a renowned champion bowler from the District.

Wisemans Ferry is hosting the event by virtue of them winning the event in 2013 at Penrith Bowling Club.

Teams of four from all clubs in the district will play knockout with the final set down for approximately 1pm on the Sunday.

Anyone interested in seeing some great lawn bowls come on down. Games will start at 9am on the Saturday.

We are looking for men and women who are interested in coaching rugby league from under 6’s and up for the 2015 season.

Do you have an interest in coaching junior rugby league but never had the opportunity – now is the time.

Training is normally for 1 hour twice a week and the games are on Saturday from April to August.

THE Findlay Fours was held at St Marys RSL recently. The weekend started with a bit of bad weather hitting on the Saturday afternoon but we were able to finish both games.

Sunday was a great day, the weather was good and fun was had by all.

The eventual winners were a team from Belmore with skip M. Phillips collecting $1800 for his team. 2nd place, a composite team from St Johns Park and Merryland, skipped by Julio Posadis, earned $1200 and third was the Cabramatta side with skip Gary Hughes picking up $900.

And fourth again was a Merrylands side skipped by J McCauley for the lowly sum of $600.

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LADIES from Penrith Women’s Bowling Club ventured down to Ingleburn Bowling for the club’s Open Sixes day.

Penrith went through the day undefeated. Penrith d Camden 37 to 24 and Cabramatta 35 to 11.

The players were Lynn Gibson, Roberta Henry, Ruth Woods, Louise Hotchkiss, Sandra Ireland and Meryl Gollan.

Well done ladies, great effort. Your club is proud of you!

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

ON THE MAT

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Round

Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

26

ROOSTERS STORM WESTS TIGERS RAIDERS COWBOYS KNIGHTS TITANS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS SHARKS EELS EAGLES DRAGONS BULLDOGS WARRIORS September 4 7.45pm

September 5 7.45pm

September 6 3.00pm

September 6 5.30pm

September 6 7.30pm

September 7 2.00pm

September 7 3.00pm

September 7 6.30pm

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ROOSTERS STORM WESTS TIGERS RAIDERS COWBOYS KNIGHTS TITANS PANTHERS RABBITOHS BRONCOS SHARKS EELS EAGLES DRAGONS BULLDOGS WARRIORS September 4 7.45pm

September 5 7.45pm

September 6 3.00pm

September 6 5.30pm

September 6 7.30pm

September 7 2.00pm

September 7 3.00pm

September 7 6.30pm

John Veitch ~ Heartland Holden

218 Mark Geyer ~ Nepean News columnist

208 Steve Beard ~ Select Mortgage

216 Nicole Keene ~ Blink Property

232 John Thain ~ Penrith Councillor

204 Bernard Bratusa ~ Penrith Councillor

208 Tim Reynolds ~ O’Donoghues

208 Trent Pittaway ~ Blue Cattledog Hotel

224 Lee Hampton ~ Pro Frame

212 Michael Creed ~ Nepean News Columnist

214 Garth Tengdahl ~ GTs - Penrith Valley Painting Service

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43 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Round

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Y T O Celebrity O F R TIPSTERS E V E F

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Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Hockey grand final action FRESH from the Australian under 21 tournament where they participated as ball persons, Nepean Hockey juniors brought their expertise to the Nepean association grand finals last Saturday.

Ryan and Hannah Cladinboel, Tristian and Brandon Potts, with Hayden Lavender, Max Buckley and Jesse Turner, carried out their duty on the 1st Division Women’s match between Emu Plains and Panthers.

A match in which the Panthers ran out comfortable victors, 4-1.

The men’s match dominated again by a hot-shot Panthers outfit which handed out an 8-0 thrashing to Emu Plains.

In the Women’s 3rd Division, Panthers managed to overcome (for the first time this season) Emu Plains, 4-1 while in the Men’s, Panthers defeated RSL 3-1 The 2nd Division Women’s grand final was arguably the most exciting and enthralling match on an action-packed day.

RSL, after three years finishing as runners-up, finally broke the hoodoo and defeated a gallant Emu Plains in a penalty goal shoot-out, 3-1.

Meanwhile in the Men’s decider, Panthers again take control and posted a 3-0 victory over Blaxland.

Panthers and Emu Plains, being the two of the larger clubs in the association, dominated the grand final series.

Some of the ball kids also played in their grand final on the Friday night.

Max Buckley’s team won the U13 for Panthers with Hannah Cladinboel, Brandon Potts opposing them in RSL side.

The Nepean juniors who did the association proud with their performances as ball persons at the national under 21 tournment.

Ryan, Tristian Potts and Hayden Lavender won their grand final in the U15’s season decider.

Young Hayden was also awarded the Carol Morris Junior Umpire of the year award.

Congratulations Hayden on your fine contribution to hockey!

The association was honoured to have attending for presentations, Penrith mayor Ross Fowler, Bernard Bratusa (representing Fiona Scott) and Stuart Ayres.

With the weather reminding us of the “wet” the day remained “downpour” free and produced cool and pleasant day for watching some excellent hockey.

Congratulations to publicity convener, Louise Regent, for her photography of the event which can be seen on the association web site.

The association now looks forward to the Indoor season with state tournaments in all divisions from juniors through to masters.

55 Jack Williams Drive, Penrith

Email: grantobrien@grantengineered.com.au

Locals steel for ironman titles LOCAL Penrith Triathlon Club members Andrea Forrest and Sam Appleton have both qualified to represent Australia at this Sunday’s 2014 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Canada.

The local duo will have the opportunity to mix it up with the world’s top 35 professional triathletes.

With a prize purse of $250,000 for distribution among the top professional male and female finishers, both are in with a chance of podium finishes.

The 1.9km swim takes place in Tremblant Lake, followed by a one-loop, 90km bike through Mont-Tremblant’s mountains.

Athletes will then embark on the 21.1km half marathon.

More than 90,000 athletes participated in the IRONMAN 70.3 Series during the 20132014 season, which consisted of over 50 events worldwide including in Australia, Germany, South Africa and Switzerland.

“This is a huge opportunity for me, particularly at this point in my professional career,” said Forrest.

“Training has been going well through winter and the recent opening of Atmosphere Health and Fitness Club has been a huge advantage, even enabling me to train on the race course via the Computrainer indoor cycling technology”.

Appleton is highly accomplished at this distance, securing a number of podium finishes over the past 12 months. He is keen to replicate this success in Canada.

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GUT WRENCHER OF A GAME

LAST Sunday was gut-wrenching for all Penrith Panther fans. Leading premiership heavyweights Manly 22-6 with 35 minutes to go on their home deck, then to lose the game on what was virtually the final play of the game hurt.

But the pain of the narrow loss quickly evaporated and turned into pride.

Pride that the mountain men showed they can beat any team anywhere with a casualty list that wouldn’t look out of place on an episode of RPA. I’m claiming a moral victory from last Sunday’s affair as should all Panther fans.

Honestly, to even get with an earshot of Manly, at Brookvale, on a Sunday afternoon with over 18,000 partisan fans roaring against you was epic.

They say you learn more from a loss than you do from victory in sport and last Sunday I learned that this Penrith rugby league team is legit.

It’s no fluke they have been in and around the top four this season - it’s quite the opposite.

You can see with every clash that the direction they’re heading in is the right one.

To bring some perspective to just how grand a performance was displayed against the Eagles, have a look at the players who couldn’t participate because of injury.

Wallace, Peachey, Segeyaro, Simmons, Yeo, Kite, Taylor and Cartwright make up more than a fair ‘sick bay’.

But it’s the players who keep filling in Source: Renee McKay (Getty Images AsiaPac) for the injured that has me in raptures.

Young Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Matt Robinson, Sam Anderson, Ben Murdoch-Masila, Will Smith and young hooker Kieran Moseley showed that if you throw them a jumper they’re up for the challenge.

Matt Moylan goes from strength to strength, Jamie Soward is in career-best form, Sika Manu likewise, and the two bookends, McKendry and Plum, provide weekly starch.

I was proud to be a Panther supporter last Sunday. And I’m even prouder in the way in which the club that I once played for is heading.

I CAN’T believe how quickly this NRL season has gone!

With round 26 looming (final round before semi-finals kick off) there are still a lot of tangibles remaining as teams jockey for their respective slots in the top eight.

It all kicks off tonight with a topof-the-table clash between the Rabbits and the Roosters.

I’m giving the winner of this clash the minor premiership as I think the Cowboys will overcome the Sea Eagles in Townsville on Saturday night.

North Queensland is looking dangerous with Thurston in sublime form.

Friday night’s game between Melbourne and Brisbane is also a bottler.

I’m going for a Bronco upset which will give them the final spot in the eight.

The only other pivotal game that can decide final eight chances is the Panthers versus Warriors at Sportingbet Stadium on Sunday at 6.30pm.

Quite simply a Panthers win eliminates the Warriors.

Well there you have it - the competition proper is about to end then the REAL stuff kicks in.

In which our very own are up to their eyeballs in it.

There’s no coincidence that as soon as spring hits, lots of things change.

The air is warmer, the birds-achirping, the arthritis vanishes and the footy intensifies dramatically Let’s go Panthers, and show all who doubt that they do so at their own peril.

Can’t wait. See ya at the game!

45 Nepean News 4 September 2014 Issue 132

Y Mark T O O F R E MY WORDS V E F

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A AS I expected, m my last column in w which I listed what I believed were the top three grand finals teams in the history of rugby league in this country, created a lot of interest amongst my readers.

All seven of them, gathered at my local watering hole, Richard Petherick’s North Richmond Hotel, on Saturday arvo to discuss the column, down a few schooners and have a couple of bets on the neddies.

With Richard hovering nearby to cool things down if the discussion became heated – he is very adept with that soda siphon - we got around to talking about picking a composite side from the three selected teams.

Those teams were the St George side of 1965, Rabbitohs line-up in 1970 and the Manly outfit which won the title in 1972.

The three sides were: St George: Graeme Langlands, Eddie Lumsden, Reg Gasnier, Billy Smith, John King, Brian Clay, George Evans, John Raper, Norm Provan, Elton Rasmussen, Kevin Ryan, Ian Walsh, Robin Gourley.

Souths: Eric Simms, Mike Cleary, Arthur Branighan, Paul Sait, Ray Branighan, Denis Pittard, Bob Grant, Ron Coote, Gary Stevens, Bob McCarthy, John O’Neill, Elwyn Walters, John Sattler.

Manly: Graeme Eadie, Ken Irvine, Ray Branighan, Bob Fulton, Max Brown, Ian Martin, Denis Ward, Mal Reilly, Terry Randall, Alan Thomson, John O’Neill, Fred Jones, Bill Hamilton.

So we all selected our teams and then through careful consideration – in fact we were blueing like bad mugs and Richard P had his hand hovering over the siphon – we came up with our composite side.

The Northo Dream Team is: Fullback: Graeme Langlands; wingers: Ken Irvine, Johnny King; centres: Reg Gasnier, Bob Fulton; five-eighth: Denis Pittard; halfback: Bobby Grant; lock: Ron Coote; second-rowers: Norm Provan, McCarthy; props: Kevin Ryan, John O’Neill.

To check out whether we were close to the mark with our selections, I gave Panthers great, Terry “Dollar”

Geary a call to get his view on the drunks’ line-up.

Dollar played against most of the players in the three grand final teams except for a couple of the Dragons boys who gave it away by the time he came into grade footy in 1969.

“Nice of you to call,” Dollar said.”

Have you just had you fingers reattached so you can dial my number?”

After profuse apologies and promises of a drink later in the week, I asked Dollar to come up with his Northo Dream Team.

“Nice of you to ask,” he said.

Anyway, an hour or so later – he does love a chat, our Dollar – this is the team he selected.

Langlands, Cleary, Irvine, Fulton, Gasnier, Martin, Ward, Coote, McCarthy, Rasmussen, Ryan, Sattler, Walsh.

So we weren’t far off the mark.

HIGH MARKS: Awaiting what promises to be a thrilling final round of the NRL in which six teams are still fighting it out for the last four semifinal berths. Very interesting!

LOW MARKS: Yeah sure! The big grog dry lasted until Tuesday arvo.

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