Nepeannews 5february2015

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

3

Young leaders

PENRITH City Council held the first Inglis Clarke Circle event for young leaders on this week.

About 20 young leaders from the Penrith community were given a voice to debate and deliberate Australia’s values, identity in the 21st century and what will unite them for the future.

The event is part of a series named after the author of Australia’s Constitution, Andrew Inglis Clark, who travelled the world and held “salons” of diverse people to deliberate on the best design for the future Australian nation in the 1890s.

The 21st century Inglis Clarke Circle is about

how young leaders can be empowered in diverse communities to join together and find creative and innovative solutions to what divides us.

The Inglis Clarke Circle will be facilitated

by Natasha Cica, Director of Kapacity.org and former diplomat David Morris. Both Ms Cica and Mr Morris have facilitated similar groups internationally.

Penrith Council has sponsored the first Inglis Clarke Circle in Australia that is planned to be one of a series of conversations with emerging new leaders in the community about our country and our future.

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4 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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

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From the Journo’s Desk

by Greg Martin

Let the games begin!

PENRITH Panthers players, officials and fans should know by the end of round 6 whether the club will be premiership contenders in 2015.

The Panthers kick-off the new National Rugby League season with a home game against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Sunday, March 8.

Then comes another home clash with the Titans, followed by away games against premiership favourites, the Roosters and the Knights, and then another two fixtures at SportingBet Stadium where they host the Cowboys and the Sea Eagles.

The Titans and the Knights should struggle this year so the Panthers should get the bikkies but the going will be a lot tougher against the other four outfits.

If the Panthers can grab two or more wins from the clashes with the Bulldogs, Roosters, Cowboys and Sea Eagles, they will definitely have “premiership material” stamped all over them.

The Roosters, Bulldogs and Sea Eagles are frequently mentioned as contenders for premiership honours but I reckon the Cowboys also have the talent and size to give the title a real shake.

If Penrith can go into round 7 with at least eight or 10 premiership points they will be well placed to continue their charge into the end of season fixtures.

In latest SportingBet betting markets, the Panthers are fourth favourites with Brisbane at $9 to do a grand final victory lap come September behind the Roosters ($5.50), Rabbitohs ($7) and Bulldogs ($7.50).

The Panthers are $2.35 to figure in the top four and a miserly $1.38 to finish in the top eight.

Perhaps a better bet for Panthers supporters is to take the $21 on offer about the workaholic Josh Mansour being the top tryscorer in 2015.

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localnews local STAFF at the St Marys Service Centre are working with community organisations to ensure at risk residents receive the support they require.

Minister for Human Services, Senator the Hon Marise Payne and Federal Member for Lindsay, Fiona Scott MP, met with staff at the Service Centre last week to discuss the specialist support on offer.

“The St Marys Service Centre plays a vital role linking some of the community’s most vulnerable to government and community support,’’ Minister Payne said.

“A number of outreach staff provide specialist services in St Marys including a Multicultural Service Officer (MSO), Community Engagement Officer, Indigenous Specialist Officer and Financial Information Service Officer.

“For example, MSO Savina Mareva works directly with refugees, migrants and community groups to make sure people who may have difficulties with English as a second language or computer literacy are offered the help they need to access our services.

“From modest beginnings 25 years ago, Centrelink now has a network of around 70 MSOs across the country, including the MSO who services St Marys,” Minister Payne added.

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Fiona Scott said Centrelink’s outreach work provided a valuable service to members of our community who are in need.

“I commend the team at the Service Centre for their tireless work in helping families most at risk and in need,” Fiona Scott said.

“This office is leading the way in closing the gap and building relationships that are crucial to building a stronger community.

“The Centre is a beacon for people who may find themselves overwhelmed by life’s challenges,” Fiona Scott added.

More information about Multicultural Service Officers and other products and services for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds is available at humanservices.gov.au/multicultural. Residents can also call 131 202 to speak to a customer service officer in a language other than English.

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Anita Cobby - 29 years on but never forgotten

By Kerrie Davies

I WAS a teenager when five loathsome monsters took the life of beautiful Anita Cobby, and like everyone else old enough to remember this horrific crime, it is etched in my mind forever as a stark reminder that unspeakable evil does exist.

A young nurse in the prime of her life, Anita was snatched from the side of a Blacktown road by a carload of despicable animals before being raped, tortured and murdered.

The brutality and torture the 26-year-old endured at the hands of the five men devastated her family, reduced the most hardened police officers to tears and broke the heart of a nation.

It has now been 29 years since the crime that shocked Australia and stole our innocence.

To mark the occasion, a special memorial service was held on Monday at Pinegove Cemetery, organised by retired Chief Inspector Gary Raymond and the Retired Police Association Parramatta / Hills branch and the Homicide Victims Support Group, which incidentally was set up by Anita’s parents, Gary and Grace Lynch.

Guardian Funerals, who were the funeral directors at Anita’s funeral, as well as those of her parents years later, put on the ceremony at no cost.

“They are really to be commended. They supplied the memorial chapel, morning tea and decorated with Anita’s favourite flowers - the frangipani,” Mr Raymond said.

Mr Raymond was the MC at the ceremony and said the turnout was incredible - with around

300 people gathering including Anita’s family neighbours, people who went to school with Anita, teachers, former work colleagues and those who worked with her on various charities and members of the general community touched by what had happened all those years ago to an innocent girl.

“I was amazed to see so many young people who weren’t even born when this happened to Anita,” Mr Raymond said.

“Anita’s tragic passing serves as a message against violence. It has also served as a reminder to women in particular, on safety and security. It has become somewhat of a catch-cry from mothers all over the country, ‘don’t walk home alone,

remember Anita Cobby.’

Mr Raymond has an analogy that he keeps close to heart all these years later.

“Compost is rotten, but you put it on the garden to make the the flowers grow. This putrid crime has helped get the message out about violence against women.”

It was on February 2 1986 when Anita took that fateful walk from Blacktown station to her home.

She usually called her father to pick her up, but on this night, the phone box was broken.

The five criminals stopped and she was pulled into the car. After torturing her in what must have been the most terrifying car ride, Anita was taken to a field in Prospect where she systematically raped and tortured further, before finally having her throat cut by the ring-leader and left to die a lonely death.

News first broadcast into our lounge-rooms that the young nurse was missing. Then, the devastating news that she’d been found so brutally murdered.

Australia’s collective heart broke all the more when we saw Anita’s parents, Gary and Grace, who were so lovely and showed so much dignity throughout their ordeal. It hurt to see such normal, every day sweet parents in unimaginable pain.

The Lynch family endured a nightmare that was so utterly unbearable, yet they focused their time in the subsequent years reaching out to other families struggling to cope with homicide.

Community outrage at the criminals responsible rose to a level never seen before in this country. All five men would be found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment, never to be released.

Fire puts exit road back in spotlight

By Kerrie Davies

WHILE shopping at St Clair last month I exited Woolies to find a large crowd of people gathered, looking at a huge ball of angry black smoke in the air.

Speculation was rife among the spectators; A chemical explosion? A terrorist attack? Armageddon?

I guess that’s a sign of the times we now find ourselves in, but the smoke turned out to be a major factory fire at a Severn Street premises in the Dunheved industrial area, with contamination largely fats and oils from the manufacture of biodiesel from cooking oils.

And while it was extremely lucky that nobody was killed or injured (being a Saturday was quite a blessing) the aftermath of the fire did produce some victims of the finned variety at South Creek, where many dead fish were reported and highlighted by the South Creek Bass Club. Penrith and Hawkesbury Councils and the EPA are working on cleaning up the creek but have issued a warning to residents to steer clear of the area for now.

Another significant problem that arose from the fire was the danger in

L to R: John Joosten, Cr Bernard Bratusa and Mia Joosten at the burned out site

only having the one entry and exit point at Dunheved, and while this is an issue that has been bandied around for many, many years now, the fire has put the safety of Dunheved’s tenants and workers back in the spotlight.

Councillor Bernard Bratusa, Liberal Candidate for Londonderry said the fire had highlighted awareness to the safety needs and the importance of having the secondary entrance/exit point.

“The biggest point here is safety, there also needs to be an evacuation plan that is utilised and effective,” Cr Bratusa said.

“This week at Council I asked for a full briefing to all Councillors to tell us where we are up to in delivering this

very importance piece of infrastructure which has been on the drawing board for three decades.

“This is a warning, this is a red light to every Councillor that now is the time for this project to be met and delivered, for the future of one of western Sydney’s most important industrial precincts.

“It is my understanding that Penrith Council is currently in discussions with Lend Lease, who in my opinion have the best interests of the community at heart. Both parties are looking towards delivering a positive resolution.”

Managers of the Dutch Rembrandt Club, John and Mia Joosten, said they were very fearful of being unable to escape should a major fire or explosion

happen, especially during a weekday when the area is full of people.

“We had about 15-20 patrons at the club that day, and no sooner had one of those patrons alerted us to the black smoke outside, we had police at our door telling us to evacuate immediately,” Mia Joosten said.

“With police cars understandably blocking one side of the exit to prevent anybody coming in, it wasn’t easy to get out.

“One small entrance road in an area that employs and handles thousands of people every week is simply insufficient, inadequate and is unlikely to meet the current safety and fire standards.

“Years ago the then State government put money aside to fix this dilemma. So far nothing has been done. This lack of progress is worrying, considering this extra entry / exit point is clearly needed.

“Do all these business and the two clubs that are in the area have to wait till there is a fatality? Honestly, what price do we put on a life?” she said.

A meeting to discuss the problem further will be held on Wednesday February 11 at 11am at the Rembrandt Cub. Call Mia on 96232569 for more information.

7 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Lotteries for newsagents

Lingering concerns

By Garion Thain

LABOR Candidate for Londonderry Prue Car said that a NSW Labor Government will legislate to protect the future of local newsagents, ensuring they are the primary distribution agents for NSW Lotteries.

“It is clear that after community opposition and Labor policy announcement, the Baird Government was forced back to the negotiating table with the Tatts Group,” Mrs Car said.

“I have had many local newsagents contact me to raise their concerns about this issue. We have a situation now where the non legally binding MOU can be abandoned at any time, which is a cause of great anxiety for local newsagents. “Its very disappointing that no local newsagents were able to take part in the negotiations between the Baird Government and the Tatts Group. It is clear that there is far more work that needs to be done to ensure newsagents are protected.”

THE concept of relocating contaminated waste from Hunters Hill to a site in Kemps Creek continues to draw ire amid recent speculation over the State Government’s intentions with the hazardous material, close to the state election in March.

Liberal MP for Mulgoa Tanya Davies has made her position against the transferral of radioactive waste clear.

“The NSW Government’s position remains unchanged. We will not transfer any restricted solid waste from Hunters Hill to Kemps Liberal Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies and Labor Candidate for Creek. A National Radioactive Waste Mulgoa Todd Carney both say they are against the relocation of radioactive Management Facility planned by the waste from Hunters Hill to Kemps Creek.

Federal Government still remains the preferred option, the location of which is still to be weary of believing the Kemps Creek site has been determined,” Mrs Davies said. dismissed.

However despite assurances that Kemps Creek “Recent revelations prove once and for all that is not currently an option for dumping the waste, the the NSW Liberals can’t be trusted on this issue,” state government has no other sites available and Mr Carney said. a suggested Commonwealth site in the Northern “The community has been Territory was dismissed by a court ruling. calling on the Liberals to look at alternatives, A Sydney Morning Herald article claimed the including onsite encapsulation - but they have annual report of Government Property NSW states refused every time.” that a $12.4 million remediation of the contaminated “Western Sydney has always been where they Hunters Hill properties “will be undertaken and want to dump this radioactive waste.” completed in 2015-16” despite there seemingly Mr Carney said that this is the Liberals’ “third being nowhere for the waste to go. backflip” on the issue and expressed doubt that Labor Candidate for Mulgoa Todd Carney is another site would be considered.

Brave shave for brain cancer

By Kerrie Davies

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

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

He was operated on within a couple of days, followed by radiation and chemotherapy and when the diagnosis was labeled terminal, the family decided to return to be with their friends and family in Penrith.

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

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

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

Jim was diagnosed with a grade three frontal lobe malignant tumour and has been given varying life

expectancy terms from different doctors, ranging from between five and ten or so years.

Gillian and their daughter Aimee have decided to brave it and shave to raise money for research.

“Yes, we are going to shave our heads in honour of those who have battled and are battling brain cancer most importantly, our heroic husband/ father James, who began his own fight in May 2013,” Aimee said.

“We would like to donate $2,000 to the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation in Australia. Our charity of choice undergoes frequent and extensive research about this menace of a disease, and are determined to, from their findings, improve the survival rate and lifespan of those affected -

one day aspiring to find a cure.

“On the day that such goal is reached, we will make the booking with our hairdresser and ‘seal the deal’ as they say.

“Whether or not you know, knew, like or dislike my Dad, know or knew someone else with brain cancer, or just feel like being kind; I urge you to gather your spare pennies and make a donation, for although it’s a bit cliché – every single cent counts.”

If you would like to donate, please head on over to their profile at Cure Brain Cancer Foundation: http://www.curebraincancer.org. au/my-fundraising/8365/aimee_ gillian-braveshaveforbraincancer Click on ‘sponsor us’ towards the right hand side (under our photo) and

follow the prompts.

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

Treatment is challenging because it affects our most vital organ. Brain cancer costs more per patient than any other cancer, yet only receives a small fraction of cancer research funding.

Brain cancer kills more children than any other disease in Australia.

It also kills more people aged under 40 in Australia than any other cancer.

Yet very little is known about brain cancer, its causes or how to treat it.

9 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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10 Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

PETER Genellos swims with the fishes.

Unlike the dearly departed Mafioso, Luca Brasi, the hitman from the classic The Godfather

movie, Peter really does swim with the fishes.

Brasi, you may remember, was bumped off by a rival gang and the Corleone family was informed of his death by a message saying that he “swims with the fishes” - killed and

Marea and Peter Genellos on their wedding day.

his body attached to a heavy weight and dropped into the briny.

Peter swims with the fishes in the Nepean River in which for the past 28 years he has competed in the annual Bridge-to-Bridge Swim Classic to raise funds for charity.

For nigh on three decades, this unassuming legend, has, without any fanfare whatsoever, swum to raise funds for Westmead Children’s Hospital, Nepean Hospital’s Breast Cancer Fund and in his 2015 swim, Little Wings.

Little Wings’ mission is to provide a free, safe, professional and high quality flight service for children from rural and regional NSW suffering from serious illnesses, to access specialised medical services at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Bear Cottage at Manly and the John Hunter Children’s Hospital Newcastle.

Little Wings aims to reduce the financial burden, emotional strain and travel fatigue for these patients and their families and carers during treatment as well as supporting patients and their families through all stages of treatment.

To get behind Peter and help him to support Little Wings and make a

significant impact on the lives of sick kids and their families, sponsor Peter at https://give.everydayhero.com/ au/peter-genellos-bridge-to-bridgeswim-for-little-wings Down the years, Peter has personally raised getting on for $120,000 in swim sponsorships while his fellow members at St Marys Rotary have also contributed big dollars by manning a canteen during the swims.

The sprightly 72-year-old decided to support Little Wings this year after hearing the charity’s chief executive officer and founder, Kevin Robinson, himself a former Legend of the Nepean, address St Marys Rotary late last year.

“Kevin described his motives for commencing Little Wings and the wonderful support it has provided to a host of kids and their families,” Peter said.

“I decided there and then to devote my 2015 Bridge to Bridge sponsorship money to Little Wings.”

Peter, who lives at Blaxland with his wife of nearly 50 years, Marea, works bloody hard to ensure he completes every swim and lures in every sponsorship dollar.

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PETER GENELLOS of my very first swim in the Bridge to Bridge and various other fundraising ventures by our members, we managed to raise $32,000.

“And that’s why the ward is called the St Marys Rotary Ward!”

Peter was always a handy swimmer in his younger days but a near-death experience in a workplace accident forced him back into the water to become a topflight swimmer and an aquatic fundraiser extraordinaire.

“I was manhandling into position a huge, curved steel plate and it overbalanced and fell on me,” Peter said.

“Fortunately the curve part of the plate hit my body – otherwise I wouldn’t be talking to you now!

As it was, Peter did himself plenty of damage including fracturing four vertebrae.

“I was told ‘operate or exercise’ by the doctors and I opted for the exercise, getting back into the water and gradually improving my fitness and getting the back right.” he said.

“I still need to keep swimming to keep the old spine in good order!”

Peter grew up in Agnes Banks and later Regentville, leaving Penrith High at 15 to commence a four-year

boilermaker apprenticeship.

After completing his indenture he earned wages as a boilermaker but managed to find time to complete courses in drafting and business management and also wed Marea.

“It was November 21, 1965,” he said proudly, stealing a glance at a smiling Marea.

When he was 35, Peter started his own business, Bel-Air Welding, an engineering and general fabrication operation in St Marys which he operated until retiring in 2005.

“I still do consultancy work which helps put a few dollars on the table and keeps the mind active,” he said.

Peter joined St Marys Rotary in 1979 and down the years has held a variety of positions including Vocational Service Director, Youth Service Director and Service Projects Director.

The couple have two children, Kathy and Glenn, and are grandparents

Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

“I get down to Glenbrook Pool five days a week and swim between 1500m and 2000m each session – the Bridge to Bridge is a 3km swim and you can’t afford to jump into the river hoping to make the finish if you don’t put in the hard work at training,” Peter said.

Marea is obviously very proud of her husband’s achievements but laughingly says “it would be nice if he could spend a bit more time around the house helping out”.

“But I couldn’t be more proud of Peter and what he has done for the less fortunate, children in particular,” Marea said.

The catalyst for Peter using his swimming talents to raise funds for charities and other organisations was a competition organised by the board of the then new Westmead Children’s Hospital.

“The (NSW) government built what they called the Rotary Wing at the new hospital and the board said they would name a ward after whichever Rotary club raised the most funds to help outfit the place,” Peter explained.

“Our club got right behind the challenge and through sponsorships

11

Job well done! Peter Genellos after his 28th Bridge to Bridge Swim.

to Riley and Teagan Genellos.

Peter and Marea are both keen travellers (they have visited 42 countries) and plan to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary by flying and cruising around the world.

They may as well have a look at a world they have combined to make a better place for so many.

Peter Genellos nominated as a Legend of the Nepean

by Kerrie Davies.

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

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Funding for cricket Reporting a death

By Greg Martin

STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has announced Penrith Cricket Club will receive $50,000 under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program.

Stuart Ayres said he was privileged to have recommended the cricket club for this funding which will be used for automated irrigation installation and cricket pitch renewal at Howell Oval, Penrith.

Mr Steve Small, General Manager of Penrith Cricket Club said the club is delighted to have Government support and in particular that of Stuart Ayres.

“The club is in the next phase of developing Howell Oval into a 1st Class venue for Cricketers (Men and Woman) for Western Sydney.

“With ongoing Government support and help from key cricket

stake holders (Cricket NSW and Sydney Thunder), this can be a showpiece for the game here in the West and beyond.

Stuart Ayres said the Community Building Partnerships are a terrific program that provides the opportunity for local community groups such as youth, sporting, hobby groups and Councils to build, refurbish or maintain much needed infrastructure that will benefit the local community.

“The NSW Government is getting on with the job ensuring a stronger and better Penrith as part of our plan to rebuild NSW. “I look forward to seeing the benefits of this upgrade for Howell Oval as it is undertaken and more importantly put into use,” added Stuart Ayres.

A FRIEND’S father recently died at home – his devoted wife found him slumped in the shower following a massive heart attack which was later revealed to have killed him instantly.

It got me thinking that I didn’t have a clue as to what to do if I had been placed in the same circumstances as my mate’s mother.

I am sure I am not Robinson Crusoe in not knowing what procedures need to be taken on discovering the death of a loved, friend or acquaintance.

So a call was made to NSW Police Media and the NSW Ambulance media division.

I was told that in such circumstances as my friend’s father’s death, first call should be to the NSW Ambulance Service as they can give you better information about assessing the person’s condition.

The people at NSW Ambulance, after talking with the caller, will then decide whether police are needed to attend the scene as well.

Police are normally called to

such situations to assess if the death is suspicious.

When someone dies, a doctor must sign a certificate that confirms the death.

Funeral arrangements cannot be completed until the doctor has signed and issued this certificate, generally called a Doctor’s Certificate of Cause of Death.

The funeral company can then take the deceased into their care.

The funeral director in charge of the funeral arrangements will generally collect all the information needed for registering the death and send it to the relevant state or territory government office.

The funeral director may also help with things such as newspaper notices, flowers and religious services.

If a funeral director is not involved with the funeral arrangements the person who manages the final arrangements for the deceased is responsible for registering the death.

When someone dies, a number of people and organisations need to be informed.

It is important that the Federal Department of Human Resources is informed when someone has died.

Call them on 132 300 or visit http://www.humanservices.gov.au

THE MAKINGS OF A CITY: FROM GUARD HOUSE TO GALLIPOLI 14th Annual History Conference 14 March 2015 This year our conference acknowledges two significant events in our City’s history – the 200th anniversary of the construction of the guard house and depot on the new Great Western Road (now the site of Penrith Police Station) and the 100th anniversary on 25 April 2015 of the landing by ANZAC forces on Gallipoli.

CONFERENCE - SATURDAY 14 MARCH 2015

• $50 per person • Time: Register from 8.30am, Conference 9am-4pm • Venue: Bonynge Concert Hall, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 597 High Street Penrith

FAMILY HISTORY FAIR - SUNDAY 15 MARCH 2015 • 10am-4pm • Penrith City Library (Lower Lounge area) • 601 High Street, Penrith • Entry by gold coin donation.

Programme: • Keynote Address – Associate Professor Carol Liston – Early days of the settlement that became Penrith.

• John Broadley – connections between Penrith and Mudgee • Lorraine Stacker – development of the District of Evan and its ultimate demise as a place name • Norm Andrews – history of the RSL & the creation of the organisation after the war and the establishment of Memory Park • Kim Phillips – Gallipoli campaign and the local men who took part

The Luddenham Squadron, Australian Light Horse (Penrith City Library)

THE G SPOT

HAPPY New Year and all that wonderful crap. It is amazing how many people I speak to seem to believe that this magical thing happens at midnight and all has been wiped clean, the slate it is now clear and the New Year will bring the an abundance of new, fresh , exciting, low weight, stop drinking and smoking etc. Now I would hate to be the bearer of bad news (the realistic and cynical person that I am) but at 1201 you are the same person as you were at 1159….

Just Sayn!

The immaculate conception with angels singing and possums folding the laundry doesn’t just happen. I know of a guy that drank like a fish just so he can start fresh in the New Year. It’s like saying “Here liver cop a beating and then I’m gonna starve ya cold turkey” and wonders why he gets sick. Captain Bonehead! A lady that ate every bit of junk food known

to man prior to the eclipse at midnight just so she could get healthy... Get my drift?

When I grow up and have money I am going to have an island for boneheads and I am sure it will be full.

(So full it will have stretch marks).

I was at the Rocks Sydney a few weeks ago and observed two security guards working in a pub. One was on his phone the other was a large lad with his butt crack hanging out of pants that were screaming “Help”!!!!

Sitting on a table also screaming “Help”!!!

There was a heated discussion between an intoxicated patron and the security guard, the guard then pushed the patron over (for no reason) and an all in brawl took place, it was a pretty horrible thing to watch as innocent people were hit with chairs, flying glass and beer. A lady even had a baby at the table. The manager of

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

the venue came running out and also got involved in the brawl and people did get injured. Can I say I was shaking my head through the entire incident (which I filmed by the way).

The entire incident could have been averted if the security guard had of handled the situation correctly from the beginning. A simple phone call to the Police and a fail to quit ($550.00 fine) could have fixed the problem.

They then all walked down to the next pub, fully pumped and started a brawl down there. I did tell the Police that when I went to the Rocks station in my urgency to show the them footage and alert them that they were on their way to another pub and will brawl , however I believe that the duty officer thought I was just another dim wit off the street. Until (of course), the urgent call came over the radio for an all in brawl and the Police ran out the door in a re-active manner. (Sigh,

shake head). See, the vicious cycle, of what I call “A comedy of errors”!

Having said all of this, then there is issue of a shortage of security guards wanting to work in clubs and pubs (because let’s face it, who wants to get their heads kicked in for a living and dealing with drunks and abuse)? Then there is also high demand from the venues for security guards due to alcohol related issues and it is just one vicious circle (Goes around and around). The days of a very senior publican (if you notice) are gone and a lot of venue managers now are under 30, which whilst I am not bagging that and young blood is good, this may add fuel to the fire as well. They then hire 18-19 year old bar people serving the grog (that they may have a different perception to what is correct RSA) and yeah well you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to work out the rest….

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13 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Mental health “one-stop shop” service expansion

By Kerrie Davies

THE NSW Government is set to invest $2 million in expanding an innovative new mental health care service delivery model in communities across NSW after the official launch of the ‘LikeMind’ pilot site in Penrith last week.

Minister for Mental Health Jai Rowell was joined by Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Liberal Candidate for Londonderry, Bernard Bratusa in opening the first ‘LikeMind’ site in Penrith, saying it would provide the Western Sydney community with ready access to a comprehensive range of specialist mental health practitioners and nonGovernment service providers.

“The new ‘LikeMind’ facility will provide easy, one-stop access to a whole range of services people living with mental illness, their families an carers regularly need to access,” Mr Rowell said.

“Under the auspices of UnitingCare Mental Health, a comprehensive range of mental health services will be available on site, as well as a number of other services focusing on the holistic needs of those accessing the centre - including

vocational and employment services, general health and well-being programs, counselling, education, housing, family planning and drug and alcohol services.

“We recognise that people living with mental illness often also have complex health and social needs, which is why the NSW Government is so determined to ensure that these services can be easily accessed when needed.

“By co-locating a comprehensive range of services through the ‘LikeMind’ model and fostering a spirit of co-operation between all stakehoders, we can provide care that is at all times keenly focussed on the specific needs of the individual.”

A number of psychosocial programs provided by Uniting Care Mental Health can be accessed on site at ‘LikeMind’ Penrith such as the Personal Helpers and Mentors

Service, the Family and Carer Mental Health program and Carer Respite services, as well as services addressing the physical needs of clients, such as Family Planning NSW, NSW Cancer Council and Diabetes NSW. Mr Ayres said he recognised the significant benefits such a colaborative partnership between Government and non-Government support services would provide to the local community.

“It is fantastic to welcome this innovative service to Penrith, and I know that local people living with mental illness will benefit enormously from the ease of access to services ‘LikeMind’ will provide,” Mr Ayres said.

Mr Bratusa said it will provide the western Sydney community with ready access to a comprehensive range of specialist mental health practitioners and non-Government service providers.

The opening of the Penrith ‘LikeMind’ site comes as part of a $1.8 million commitment from the NSW Government announced in last year’s State Budget,with the NSW Government set to invest $2 million in expanding the innovative new mental health care service delivery model.

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Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Reminder service PENRITH City residents can take advantage of waste and recycling programs with Council’s free ‘Resource Recovery Reminder’ service.

Penrith City Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the Resource Recovery Reminder SMS service was initially introduced for Council’s extra waste collections at Christmas.

“On the night before bin collections, the free service sent an SMS to mobile phones reminding residents about the extra pick-ups,” Councillor Fowler said.

“It has been so successful that Council will also sms registered residents about a variety of programs including: • Chemical Clean Out drop off days - (March 7) • Electronic Waste Recycling collections – (March 8) • Resource Recovery initiatives Residents can register for the free SMS reminders by email or phone.

Email your name, home address and mobile phone number to rrr@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au to register for the free service. For more information, go to www. penrithcity.nsw.gov.au or phone 4732 7615.

Local woman of the year announced MINISTER for Women Pru Goward was joined by Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres to announce Jessica Fox as the 2015 Local Woman of the Year for Penrith.

Ms Goward said there were countless outstanding women in NSW and the Local Woman of the Year awards are a chance for the NSW Government and the community to officially recognise the phenomenal contribution they make.

“The Local Woman of the Year awards is something I look forward to each year because we get to share the inspirational journeys of a number of outstanding women in NSW,” Ms Goward said.

“It is the hard and often thankless work of women like Jessica that make not only our communities great places to live, but defines who we are as Australians.”

Local award winners will be invited to join their Member of Parliament at the 2015 NSW Women of the Year award ceremony to be held at Parliament House in March.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said he was proud to nominate Jessica as the Penrith’s 2015 Local Woman of the Year.

“Jessica is a world champion in one of the most competitive sport in

the world. She has represented Penrith with great distinction and beyond her on-water performances she continues to be a role model for young women across Western Sydney.

“It is truly a privilege to be able to acknowledge the great work in our community of women like Jessica.

“I am also pleased the Minister has come to Penrith to recognise Jessica for her achievements as an outstanding student, athlete and ambassador for our community,” Mr Ayres said.

For more information on the NSW Women of the Year awards visit www. women.nsw.gov.au.

FREE ONLINE RESOURCES 24/7 WITH YOUR LIBRARY CARD 1. Go to: opac.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au 2. Click on the ‘Online Resources Search’ tab 3. Search for the title or subject you’re after 4. Click on weblink@home or weblink@library

LIBRARY

Enter your library card number and pin for full access.

INFORMATION @ YOUR FINGERTIPS eBOOKS, ONLINE NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, DATABASES AND A SELECTION OF WEBSITES Go to: opac.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au For access to: • • • • • • • • • • •

Newspapers and magazines Encyclopaedias, gazettes and atlases Health Science and technology Wildlife and the environment Computers and mathematics History, literature and reading Art, craft and music Countries and geography Employment, business and finance Statistics and other useful resources

For information contact Penrith Library: 4732 7891

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“Tails” of Pookie and Monkey

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

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

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

BATHROOM &

THIS is the story of Pookie the Shihtzu who was recently diagnosed with a life threatening condition affecting her immune system. Pookie came to the Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service (which operates out of WellPet Nepean) late one night after her owners had noticed her change in behaviour and appetite.

Pookie was weak, not interested in food, had a yellow tinge, was passing very yellow urine, and vomiting yellow bile.

Pookie was examined by one of our emergency Vets Dr. Max and immediately admitted into hospital for blood tests and imaging. Pookie was found to be jaundiced and anaemic.

Further tests confirmed that Pookie had a condition called immune mediated heamolytic aneamia (IMHA). This is a condition in which her immune system attacks its own red blood cells.

This causes aneamia and jaundice.

The jaundice is caused by the red blood cells being destroyed internally (and not lost due to bleeding) just as in Pookie’s case, the patient becomes yellow tinged due to the break down products of the red blood cells.

Pookie needed intensive care, special medications to help her immune system, and more red blood cells. Pookie received two blood

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Pookie

transfusions during her stay at WellPet Vets.

Pictured you will see Monkey the Staffordshire Bull Terrier owned by our Emergency Nurse Dave. Monkey kindly donated his blood to help save Pookie’s life.

Pookie was very grateful, as were her owners. Pookie is now at home and stable. She is being very carefully medicated and cared for by her owners.

We see Pookie every week for blood tests to check her red cell numbers and we are pleased they are improving each week. Pookie is one tough little cookie and we all hope she continues to be brave through this condition. Get well soon Pookie!

Pookie’s mum Rosemary says “I just wanted to say a HUGE THANKYOU to all the vets, veterinary nurses, receptionists and everyone else who helped my little “Pookie” recently

Monkey

during her week long stay in your hospital. She was so sick and needed 2 blood transfusions and was constantly on an IV drip. I was so terribly upset, but during my visits with her twice a day everyone was so supportive and reassuring. She has been home for a week now and she is eating and drinking well and starting to get back to her normal self. Again, thanks everyone, we really do appreciate what you have done for her.”

NOVENA

THE MIRACLE PRAYER Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am. I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your name I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life Jesus, I accept you as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul and spirit.

Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your precious blood, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus. I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen.

Mary my mother, Queen of Peace, all the Angels and Saints please help me.

Amen. RDS.

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We promote the responsible service of gaming & alcohol. alhgroup.com.au Advertising and promotions contained on ALH Group posters, flyers or newspaper advertising are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

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SUDOKU: MEDIUM

20

Speak and read Filipino

The beautiful Philippines

SOLUTION: 15th January

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

LOOKING for something different for your kids to do in 2015? How about enhancing your skills and knowledge by learning a language!

The Penrith Community Filipino School ( PCFS ) will start its classes this Saturday at the St. Marys Senior Citizens Center, St. Marys. Classes are held from 10 am till 12 noon on Saturdays, except public and school holidays.

The school is now in its 8th year of providing face to face, interactive learning of the Filipino language under the Community Language School Program of the NSW Department of Education and Training.

PCFS is managed by the Philippine Language and Cultural Association of Australia Incorporated, a nonprofit organisation based in Penrith.

The school was established with the help of the Penrith City Council. In addition to its expert tuition in Filipino language, PCFS offers lessons in arts,

craft, traditional dances, songs, games, sports and even traditional Filipino cuisine.

The school upholds bilingualism which aids in the cognitive development of the children, facilitates learning of different languages and enhances one’s creativity and skills.

The school provides activities for students to experience Philippine culture and be in touch with their heritage. The PCFS students are led to participate in community events by their musical and dance performances and are encouraged to assume active roles in their communities.

Let your children meet new friends in the Filipino school, learn a new language and experience a culture.

Enrolment is now open.

You may contact PCFS registrar through email at plcaa.inc@gmail. com or call 98344626 or 0412335714.

Adult lessons are also offered under a different curriculum.

JOKES

Rodney Dangerfield (born Jacob Rodney Cohen, November 22, 1921 – October 5, 2004) was an American comedian and actor, known for the catchphrase “I don‛t get no respect!” and his monologues on that theme. He is also remembered for his 1980s film roles, especially in Easy Money, Caddyshack, and Back to School.

1. I tell ya, my wife, we get along good cause we have our own arrangement. I mean, one night a week I go out with the boys and one night a week, she goes out with the boys.

2. With sex my wife thinks twice before she turns me down. Yeah, once in the morning and once at night.

3. Last week I told my wife, “If you would learn to cook, I could fire the chef.” She said, “If you could learn to make love, I could fire the chauffeur.”

4. I was tired one night and I went to the bar to have a few drinks.

The bartender asked me, “What‛ll you have?” I said, “Surprise me.”

He showed me a naked picture of my wife.

5. My marriage is on the rocks again. Yeah, my wife just broke up with her boyfriend.

6. The other night I woke up, she was saying sexy things. She was on the phone.

7. When I told my wife she was lousy in bed - she went out - she got a second opinion.

8. I bought a used car. And found my wife‛s dress in the back seat.

9. Last night some guy knocked on the front door. She told me to hide in the closet.

10. She told me when we have sex, that‛s the only time I make her laugh.

11. I could tell that my parents hated me. My bath toys were a toaster and a radio.

12. I come from a stupid family. During the civil war my great uncle fought for the west!

Step back in time EVENTS

62 - Earthquake in Pompeii, Italy.

1852 - The New Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world, opens to the public.

1869 - The largest alluvial gold nugget in history, called the “Welcome Stranger”, is found in Moliagul, Victoria, Australia.

1900 - The United States and the United Kingdom sign a treaty for thePanama Canal.

1909 - The United States and the United Kingdom sign a treaty for thePanama Canal.

1919 - Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, and D.W. Griffithlaunch United Artists.

1939 - Generalísimo Francisco Franco becomes the 68th “Caudillo de España”, or Leader of Spain.

1945 - World War II: General Douglas MacArthur returns to Manila.

BIRTHS 1788 - Robert Peel, English politician, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom(d. 1850).

1840 - Joseph L. Mankiewicz, American director, producer, and screenwriter (b. 1909) John Boyd Dunlop, Scottish businessman, co-founded Dunlop Rubber(d. 1921).

1906 - John Carradine, American actor (d. 1988).

1919 - Red Buttons, American actor (d. 2006).

1936 - Norma Thrower, Australian hurdler.

1942 - Roger Staubach, American football player.

1946 - Charlotte Rampling, English actress.

DEATHS 1881 - Thomas Carlyle, Scottish historian (b. 1795).

1941 - Banjo Paterson, Australian poet (b. 1864).

1969 - Joseph L. Mankiewicz, American director, producer, and screenwriter (b. 1909) Thelma Ritter, American actress (b. 1902) 1991 - Dean Jagger, American actor (b. 1903).

1993 - Joseph L. Mankiewicz, American director, producer, and screenwriter (b. 1909).

1995 - Doug McClure, American actor (b. 1935).

With live entertainment by

Bookings Essential Phone: 02 9670 8888 Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club 2-8 Twin Creeks Drive, Luddenham NSW 2745 Email: paperbark@twincreeks.com.au

21 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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Prostate Cancer THE next meeting of the Nepean / Blue Mountains Prostate Cancer Support Group will be held at 6.30pm on Monday the 16th February in Lecture Room 1, Learning & Development Unit, now located in the SWAHS 2 building Nepean Public Hospital.

The guest speaker is from Continence Australia, who will speak on continence issues.

All meetings are available to males and their partners who are seeking information on this cancer, and who live in the Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and Penrith areas. Come along and experience the caring and benefits offered by our Support Group whose motto is YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Enquiries: Visit our website w w w. p r o s t a t e s u p p o r t . o r g . a u or David Wilkinson, President 1300 13 38 78.

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

Morning tea commences at 10.30am and all services are welcome.

Publicity Officer Colin 0400 129 006.

T E R T A I N M E N T

Deana sings Dino DEANA Martin takes the audience on a musical journey, honoring her legendary father Dean Martin and other great performers who shaped American music and popular culture for over four decades. She sings the sound track of our lives, the classics made popular the world over by her father and his “Pallies.”

Deana performs many of her father’s greatest and most enduring hits, including: “Memories Are Made Of This”, “That’s Amore”, “Everybody Loves Somebody”, and many more of the world’s favorites. Her on stage performance treats the audience to an intimate repartee, sharing with them a look into Dean‘s life, by way of, her personal anecdotes and a video montage, comprised of rare never before seen home movies and private photos. You will relive with Deana some of the most treasured moments from Dean Martin’s long and illustrious career.

Deana sings the most famous hits of her musical family, including “Uncles” Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., plus Rosemary Clooney, and many others. The show is a combination of musical treasures intertwined with personal reflections and private recollections, from a lady who grew up having a family like relationship with the people to whom she is paying tribute.

Since the shows inception eight years ago, Deana has enjoyed rave reviews and has been performing internationally to sold out audiences on three continents.

Treat yourself and those you love to an evening of a lifetime. See and enjoy Deana Martin, live!

What a perfect date to take your Valentine on - the show kicks off at 8pm on February 14 at Rooty Hill RSL - see advertisement on the next page for more details!

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Humbleness (8) 5 Monkey-bread tree (6) 9 Insolvent (8) 10 Discarded food (6) 12 The official language of Iceland (9) 13 Community (5) 14 Kill (4) 16 Take one’s clothes off (7) 19 Give a title to someone (7) 21 Singlet (4) 24 King or Empress (5) 25 Sentries (9) 27 Frank (6) 28 Cathedral (8) 29 Gets pleasure from causing pain (6) 30 Resembling a tree in form (8)

DOWN 1 A composite (6) 2 Fixed (6) 3 Insect stage (5) 4 Lukewarmly (7) 6 Honors (9) 7 Grow on trees (8) 8 Unwarranted (8) 11 Beige (4) 15 Freedoms (9) 17 Withdraws (8) 18 Sloped (8) 20 Nature of being (4) 21 Having a superior position (7) 22 American neighbor (6) 23 Land surrounded by water (6) 26 A poem by Homer (5)

solution 15/1/15

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24 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Strangers Home Hotel

Part 2...continued from 15th January 2015

F

URTHER information on the Corry family who had five children, three girls and two boys. The old couple were remembered by the locals as having an old fashioned gig and the girls and boys rode horses. Around the end of 1856 a celebrated race was run on part of an old race course. This flat paddock was used for turf meetings and was between the south creek and the Werrington Road. The race was for a purse of 200 sovereigns and was between a light bay mare owned by James Landers, who was the owner of the race course and at that time publican in the “Oddfellow’s Arms” (later renamed the Commercial Hotel) and an iron grey colt called “Slow and Go Easy” owned by John Corry. Two hundred sovereigns was a great deal of money at that time and a race for that kind of money attracted a lot of attention. On the day of the race the settlers came from all directions to witness the race and a great deal of betting was indulged in. The proudest lad in Australia that day was young Tom Corry who brought “Slow and Go Easy” to the front to win by two lengths “amid the cheers of the greatest gathering known in local history at that time”. In January 1915 the Nepean Times published the death that occurred at “East Lynne”, Belmore Street at Penrith of Mary Corry at the age of 70 years. Mary had been ailing for about two years and complained of feeling a little worse than usual but it was not thought that she was seriously ill and in any harm, but she passed away to the great shock of the family. The funeral took place on Christmas Day with Mary’s body being interred in the Roman Catholic portion of the Penrith General cemetery at Kingswood. Mary was born in Limerick in Ireland and came to NSW with her parents in 1844 on the “Royal Saxon” at the age of three years. The family first going to live at Chippen on the Luddenham Road and afterwards in various portions of the Penrith District. Her father was said to be the licensee of a hotel on the corner of High and Woodriff Street in Penrith for some time. Her husband James Corry who was the son of John Corry of the Strangers’ Home Hotel at St Marys had predeceased her 14 years ago. When first married James and Mary went to live at St Marys and remained there for many years. The first time they moved was three years after the death of James when Mary and her family moved to Penrith. Foot racing was very big in the district and in 1887 and an agreement between James Cott, a Gentleman residing in Penrith and a St Mary’s boot maker named Albert James Worthington who had agreed to a foot race worth £400 between Albert and Frederick Granville Harvey at the Penrith Progress Association’s Athletic Ground in November of that year.

The stipulation being that Albert and Fred were to appear in proper racing gear. The distance of the race was 150 yards, giving Fred Harvey a start of four yards. William Fulton (Jnr) and William Sykes were appointed judges and in the event any living or dead animal impeded the race it would be declared null and void. The race was won by Worthington. In November 1888 the transfer of the

“Strangers Home Hotel” went from John Atkinson to James Cott who also applied for a billiard license.

In 1889 a Nepean Times article said that at the St Mary’s Protestant Hall, the Mechanics Institute held a variety entertainment in aid of the Mechanic’s building fund. The programme included “The Twilight Minstrels” with Mr Henry Wake as the violinist, Mr H. S. Wake as pianist, Mr Scambury as “Bones”, Mr J Herford as “Tambo” and Mr J J Herford as “Interlocutor”. The Wake family fairly “waking” the audience up with their first-class instrumental music. Other songs were well rendered by Messrs. J Behan, J Herford, P Herford, J Scambury, J J Herford and W Sainsbury. One of the jokes went over well and was worth repeating “Why is St Marys like the United Kingdom? – Because she has Ireland in the centre (meaning of course Mr Ireland of the ‘Volunteer Hotel’ in the centre of town)” – another was “Why is St Marys like a children’s nursery? – Because it has a Cott in the corner (meaning of course James Cott of the “First and Last” on the corner leading to the station). James Cott had at this time changed the name from the “Stranger’s Home Hotel” to the “First & Last” because the hotel was the first hotel into town from the east and the last on the way out from the west. In 1889 an inquest into the death of Amos Spinks who died at Nepean Cottage Hospital at the age of 19 years. He was born in Australia and was a blacksmith who lodged with his brother Thomas at Cott’s hotel. He was working for George Bennett. He complained of pains in his stomach and James Cott went with Thomas in a buggy to Penrith hospital with Amos.

At the inquest James testified that he saw Amos vomiting outside his hotel and it looked like green peaches. At the hospital the nurse wouldn’t admit him without proper authority so his brother returned to Dr Shand who went with him to the hospital for admittance – it took 20 minutes. Dr Shand’s opinion of death was due to colic that turned into peritonitis. There was no post mortem and the Coroner’s verdict was that the length of time waiting at the hospital for admittance could have harmed him, but nothing could have been done to save him. The Jury found accidental death and no blame.

In 1897 James bought the “Mornington Hotel” at Mortlake that was owned by a Mr R D Graham for £1,960. In August 1891 James Cott saved Gwen Herford, the daughter of John Herford, from drowning in the underground tank at his “First & Last” hotel that was across the road from the Herford home. He was presented with a cruet set

by Gwen marked “Memento to Mr James Cott for his timely rescue of me from drowning”. In January 1898 the St Marys reporter of the Nepean Times commented that “Mrs Corry who resides next the “First and Last Hotel” is somewhat older being in her 91st year. She looks well for her age and was about at 6 o’clock on New Year’s morning”. To be continued.

Information from various sources – Some Corry family information courtesy of D Deanna Cartwright.

Lyn Forde – Research Officer, St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

26

finance and real estate matters

Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

SHOULD I BUY A PROPERTY NOW OR WAIT UNTIL PRICES GO DOWN? With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

AS we know, property prices in the local area (and the whole of the Sydney region) have had risen enormously over the last few years. So the question clients ask me daily is do I think that now is a good time to buy a property or should I wait until prices go down?

That is a very difficult question and you need a very good crystal ball to know the answer.

Property prices always move in cycles and the Sydney market is close to or at the top of the cycle and in theory could and should stabilise or possible decrease in the next phase of the normal cycle. Because prices have been rising so rapidly for a few years, it is inevitable that prices will stop rising at some stage. But the big question is when will that time come?

Normally, prices eventually stabilise or decreases because of two reason. Either confidence decreases

below the supply due to uncertainty about employment and or decreasing incomes and or higher expenses (higher inflation). Or the other reason is that interest rates increase which makes borrowing more expensive.

This situation is unlikely to occur over the next year or so as we now live in a world of very low home loan interest rates with money in high supply.

A few experts are predicting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to decrease official interest rates at their 3rd of February meeting (I write this article prior to the meeting). If they don’t then some experts and banks are saying they expect one or two decreases during the year anyway.

This is great if you already have a home loan but bad if you are trying to buy your first home or are trying to upgrade. In the Sydney and local markets, any rate decrease will probably just increase demand again and stay well above the supply of properties. This will lead to continued price increases as confidence appears to remain high.

Do you have time to compare over 30 lenders?

The political cycle also has an effect on consumer confidence. When there is an election or change of leadership (talk of Tony Abbott being replaced), generally people don’t commit to big purchases until politics becomes more stable.

The other big economic news is the continued dramatic fall in the Aussie Dollar compared to the US Dollar. Currently it is sitting at 77.5 cents to the US dollar and hasn’t been this low for many years. As I wrote in my December article a lower dollar means that Aussie companies who export (in US dollars) overseas can be more competitive and increase their sales as goods and services produced here are suddenly cheaper to buy compared to some competitors. This is a great way to increase business confidence, employment and wages.

The RBA would like to see the Aussie dollar be around 75 cents to the US dollar so it is almost there now.

If our dollars remains around this comparative exchange rate, Aussie business that export should start to see

higher orders and profits. They will then pay more taxes and the employees will earn more income (and also pay more taxes). All of this extra income to the government will help normalise of economy and increase consumer.

If consumer confidence gets too high, the RBA then usually start to increase interest rates to try and cool demand back to normal levels. Thus situation may not occur for a year or so. In the meantime it is very likely interest rates will remain stable or decrease.

So back to the question of whether to buy now or not. My general advise is that if you have a good deposit (and only borrow a maximum of 90 per cent of the property value), and are confident about the stability of your income and expenses (ie, not having a baby or major changes etc) and you are going to be holding the property for the medium or long term, go ahead and buy a property for a fairish value that you will be happy to live in or invest in (for at least 5 to 7 years minimum).

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

Colyton/Mt Druitt Junior Rugby League Registration 2015 PLAYERS WANTED FROM UNDER 6’S THROUGH TO A GRADE Registration Day Saturday 21st February from 9am - 2pm and every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 5.30-8.00pm at Ridge Park, corner Woodland Ave and Great Western Highway PLAYERS FOR ALL AGES WANTED

For Registration Enquiries please contact

Kirsty on 0402 315 179

All new Players must provide original birth certificate, passport or drivers licence

Trials for U/6-U/15 - 14th & 28th March at Ridge Park Trials for U/16-A Grade - 8th, 15th & 29th March at Ridge Park All enquiries please contact

Peter Martin on 0411 278 746 Or visit our Facebook Page or website for training times or more information

www.colytonmtdruitt.leaguenet.com.au www.facebook.com.au/www.colytonmtdruitt.leaguenet.com.au

WISEMANS FERRY junior bowler Luke Millican has changed clubs over the holiday break and now plays out of the Penrith club with his dad, Geoff, transferring as well.

Luke has scooped the pool at the recent NDBA Junior Championships played at the Blacktown Workers Bowling Club.

Luke won the Singles and was also in the teams that won the Pairs, Triples and Fours.

In the Singles first round Andrew Watkins, Wisemans Ferry defeated Kane Shorter, Kingswood 25 to 16, Luke Millican defeated Tiffany Ellis (Kingswood) 25 to 10, Emmett McLeod (Penrith) defeated Thomas Holburn (Glenbrook Panthers) 25 to 15 and Jayden Shorter (Kingswood) had a bye.

In the second round Luke defeated Andrew in the closest of matches 25 to 24 and Emmett defeated Jayden 25 to 3 and then onto the final in which Luke crunched Emmett 25 to 14.

In the first round of the Pairs, Tiffany Ellis and Kane Shorter defeated Thomas Holburn and Andrew Watkins 18 to 10 and Emmett McLeod and Luke Millican tossed Jayden Shorter and Ryan Keen 32 to

2. In the Final, Emmett and Luke beat Tiffany and Kane 23 to 15.

There being only three teams in the Triples, it was played as a round robin.

The first game saw Andrew Watkins, Luke Millican and Emmett McLeod defeat Tiffany Ellis, Kane Shorter and Thomas Holburn 26 to 6 and in the second game Tiffany, Kane and Thomas defeated Lily, Jack and Storm McEwen-Gillespie 18 to 9.

In the third game Andrew, Luke and Emmett defeated Lily, Jack and Storm 15 to 1. With two wins from two games, Andrew, Luke and Emmett were declared the winners.

The Junior Fours came down to a one game shoot out.

Andrew Watkins, Thomas Holburn, Luke Millican and Emmett McLeod defeated Jay Shorter, Will Rogers, Tiffany Ellis and Kane Shorter 24 to 11.

Many thanks must go to Blacktown Workers Men’s Bowling Club for hosting the event over the four days and for providing lunch for the players, parents and supporters.

The parents and supporters should be thanked also for being present and cheering he players on.

With Col Crossingham

All the juniors that participated should be proud of their performances and look forward to big things in 2015.

IN 2014 there were 26 teams entered in the NDBA State Fours Championships but this year 38 teams entered.

This event was conducted up in the beautiful lower Blue Mountains at Springwood, Hazelbrook and Lawson clubs.

First round winners (skips names only) at Lawson were Steve McMahon (Austral), Joshua Green (Lawson), Mal Cameron (St Marys RSL) by a single shot, Phil Heath (Glenbrook Panthers), Phil Clarke (Penrith) and John Bowman (Springwood).

All the other games in the first round were byes. Second round winners were Joshua Green, Phil Heath, Phil Clarke, John Auton (Springwood), Jeremy Suffolk (Blacktown Workers), Gary Adnum (Penrith), Dale Reeves (Glenbrook Panthers), Terry Flannigan (Windsor), Chris Tindall (Austral), Steven Blake (Springwood), Michael Stanbury (Lawson), Kevin Fitzpatrick (Lawson), Gerard Short (Austral), Graham Neich (Springwood), Morris Luckwell (Blacktown Workers) and Matt Slager (Blacktown City).

In round three the winners were Joshua Green, Phil Clarke, Gary Adnum, Dale Reeves, Chris Tindall, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Graham Neich and Matt Slager while Quarter Final winners were Phil Clarke, Gary Adnum, Chris Tindall and Matt Slager.

This left two Penrith teams to fight out one semi-final with one certain to play in the Final.

The semi-finals were Gary Adnum versus Phil Clarke with Phil winning 26 to 16 and the other semi-final was Chris Tindall versus Matt Slager with Chris winning 24 to 12.

The final was a one-sided affair in the early stages with Phil Clarke leading by a country mile only to be caught in the latter stages. Chris Tindall was the eventual winner by a single shot after playing an extra end.

KINGSWOOD Men’s Bowling Club held the Final of their Fours Championships on Saturday, January 24. The result was Kevan Shaw, Oscar Tolomeo, Glenn Hogan and Grant McKirdy defeated Phil Taylor, Dave Gunnell, Chris Harris and Steve Vrana 22 to 12.

Congratulations to all members who competed.

27 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

ON THE MAT

sport

28

sport

Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Panthers’ “fair” BARRIER RISE start to season 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.

New Panthers signing, Rhys Daley, weaves through the State Under 18 Men’s team’s defence on Saturday. Photo: Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

THE Minto Indoor Sports Stadium (MISS) was the venue for the 2015 Elite Summer Slam over last weekend, hosting eight men’s basketball teams in this inaugural pre-season tournament.

Waratah Championship League (WCL) reigning premiers, the Northern Suburbs Bears, were the headline team in the tournament and were joined by the Hornsby Spiders, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Hills District Hornets, Bankstown Bruins and Penrith Panthers WCL teams.

The NSW Under 20 Men’s team and the NSW Under 18 Men’s squad were the final two teams to make up the strong field.

Penrith performed credibly over the two days but will need to lift if they are to be a force in this year’s WCL competition.

The Panthers were short-handed in two games, recording a 66-58 win over the NSW U18 Men on Saturday and falling 84-69 to the Bankstown Bruins on Sunday afternoon.

Their only game near full strength was on Sunday morning, with the Panthers narrow 71-66 winners over Hills District.

MISS Senior Facilities Manager Glenn Gooding said: “We had about 1000 people through the doors over the weekend -- a real success for us at Minto”.

“The weekend was designed to provide an opportunity for Sydney’s Elite Senior men’s basketball teams to size each other up”, Glenn said.

“With only two weeks until the 2015 season tips off, it really gave the boys an opportunity to see how they are placed - a real opportunity to focus on team philosophy, strengths and weaknesses and trial different combinations”.

A couple of stand-out performances included Alex Opacic (Bankstown) and I was also very impressed with the point guard from Penrith Rhys Daley.

St Clair Junior Rugby League Club

PLAYERS REQUIRED Under 6’s (can start playing when they turn 4 years old) up to A Grade.

ALSO LOOKING FOR GIRLS WHO WANT TO PLAY FROM UNDER 6’s UP TO 17 YEARS OLD

2015 REGISTRATION INFORMATION DAYS All clothing can be picked up on these 3 days.

At Peppertree Reserve (Cnr Peppertree & Swallow Drive Erskine Park) 7th, 8th and 14th February 10am to 3pm ALL REGISTRATIONS AND PAYMENTS ARE NOW ON LINE. VISIT OUR WEB PAGE AND FOLLOW THE LINKS Training starts the week of 9th February. All players welcome.

See web page for times and details.

For further enquiries please contact: Secretary: Bill Borg - Mob 0425 226 683 Registrar: Michael Zammit - Mob 0412 531 935 Email to: bill@stclairjrlc.org.au More details on the web page: www.stclaircomets.com.au

All NEW players will be required to provide a photo and Birth Certificate or Passport to be sighted.

FREE SHORTS, SOCKS & POLO SHIRT WHEN REGISTRATION FEES PAID A Grade and C Grade training on Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm at Solander Drive St Clair.

A Grade Coach: Bobby Bright – Mob 0401 855 278

BROGUE: Big hulk by Zabeel and he’ll come into his own when Steve Englebrecht steps him out over some ground. Trials well.

COSMIC ENDEAVOUR: Gai Waterhouse’s talented miss could have won her recent heat. The brakes were on big time.

FULL MARKS: Slipped along the inside to score a handsome Hawkesbury trial. A member of Joe Pride’s formidable stable.

I’M ALL THE TALK: Gary Portelli’s youngster zoomed clear with a trial - definitely a sign for a first-up tilt.

KERMADEC: Impressive sort out of the Chris Waller yard. Right up to landing a good class race this Autumn Carnival.

MEMORIAL: One of the better class 3YO fillies of the season. Likely to quickly hit peak form against top notchers.

TRALFAZ: This Gary Portelli-trained sprinter is still in the early part of his 2015 campaign. Rosehill trial win suggests a decent prep.

VALENTIA: Moving through his paces nicely and tidy second in a Rosehill trial. Gai’s classy ones are ready to roll!

Lower Mountains Junior Rugby League Club Inc Warrimoo Oval, Warrimoo Come and enjoy being part of our family, friendly footy club!!!!

The club is looking forward to another successful year and are calling for expressions of interest for players of all age groups from 4yrs – 74yrs for 2015!!

Head gear will be provided by the club for all players from U6’s-U8’s.

All sponsorship enquiries to: lmjrl@bigpond.net.au

SUNDAY SIDES A Grade – Cal Madgwick Under 19’s – Chris Chinn Under 17’s – Chris Elliott Under 16’s – Greg Ayers

Ph: 0421 556 204 Ph: 0414 516 684 Ph: 0417 668 271 Ph: 0407 292 456

REGISTRATION DAYS: Saturday 7th February 9am - 2pm Thursday, 19th February 5.30pm - 7.30pm Friday 27th March 5.30pm - 7pm Watch on our website for further updates at:

www.lowermountainsjrlc.com.au For all enquiries please call the Secretary on:

0435 037 634

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29 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

Nepean News

30 Nepean News 5 February 2015 Issue 142

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

WITH MARK GEYER

EXCITING NINES FINAL CAPPED A WONDERFUL TOURNAMENT WITH the Auckland 9’s behind us for its second coming the jury remains out on the viability of it being a true benchmark to the season proper.

It was plainly evident that some clubs treated it as a competition they were taking seriously whilst others selected an abundance of youngsters to cut their teeth.

As a supporter, I felt let down, as a coach I can totally understand. The NRL isn’t won in January!

The eventual grand finalists of the 9’s, the Sharks and winners, Rabbitohs definitely took it seriously and had three pool wins from as many games.

Others like the Panthers, Bulldogs, Raiders and Storm picked teams with an eye on round 1 of the premiership. Manly on the other hand took their two best players Cherry-Evans and Foran but came away winless.

The prize money on offer ($375,000 for the winners) is an amount that every club would want but at what cost?

Serious injury to star players last year would have played a major part in clubs fielding rookie line-ups, but I hope the 9’s doesn’t head down the same track as the City versus Country fixture, with star players pulling out like splinters out of tradie’s hands!

It was the Cowboys last year who were worst hit by injury, at the 9’s this year it was Parramatta’s turn. Already reeling after megastar Jarryd Hayne upped and left late last year to pursue his NFL dream, injury in the 9’s to Chris Sandow (ankle) Ken Edwards (knee) new recruit Brad Takairangi (ankle) and younger brother of Frank, Kaysa Pritchard doing his pec.

Sharks young playmaker Fa’amanu Brown underwent surgery on Monday after tearing his ACL. Everyone knows that injury can happen at any time to a footballer, it just seems with the 9’s format of warming up then cooling down coupled with how early in the year it’s played, the chances of a player injuring himself increase dramatically under the explosiveness of the current format.

But it’s not all doom and gloom, there was some fantastic rugby league played over the two days and as I mentioned earlier, some youngsters got a chance to mix it with their idols, an opportunity not to be lost.

It was fitting that the final game of the 9’s was the best.

The gutsy Sharks, after a year of total woes, showed that they will be the big improvers this season, and also pocketed a cool $240,000 as runners-up, while their counterparts in the final and eventual winners Souths, keep going from strength to strength.

Player of the tournament, Adam Reynolds, showed that he is ready if needed for major rep honours this year, and with the help of Isaac Luke, Dylan Walker and George Burgess won a spirited final 18-14 in a breathtaking way with veteran flanker, Matt King, scoring the ‘golden try’ 30 minutes after the game began.

The victorious Rabbitohs squad celebrate their Auckland Nines success.

It remains to be seen how the Auckland 9’s evolve, but I must confess it was great to see Rugby League, any Rugby League that is, back on the box after a long off-season.

Bring on the 2015 premiership. See ya at the game!

WHILE the weather wasn’t kind to us on the recent Australia day celebrations, it definitely didn’t dampen the enthusiasm that was felt all across the land.

I was pleased to see Rosie Batty named Australian of the Year.

And conversely was glad not to see a sportsman take the honour.

It did make me think though with the spotlight on domestic violence because of the way Rosie lost her poor son.

I also thank the parents of Thomas Kelly, who died from a coward’s punch in the Cross whilst on his first venture in there. They lost their son in an unimaginable way but have strived to make our kid’s lives safer.

Same goes for the distraught family of young Daniel Morcombe.

Parents who make it their life pledge to make sure what happened to their child doesn’t happen to ours must always be treasured.

Always love your children. Always!

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Thursday, 5 February 2015

sport

HARPO’S MARKS

C CAUGHT up with ffellow Nepean N News columnist, Tony Brassel, for a boozie lunch last week and of course our conversation turned to the gee-gees and punting.

I don’t know, but for some reason, we Australians like to boast that we have backed the winner of the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, W.S Cox Plate and any other big race on the Australian racing calendar.

And the Golden Slipper Stakes is no exception!

Fair dinkum, really we should be looking for something at 6/4 in a lowly maiden at Mudgee which should be long odds-on.

But, as you know, with punting, off goes the head and on goes a pumpkin.

Anyways, I asked Tony if we had seen the 2015 Golden Slipper winner hit the racetrack as yet.

“I have as much luck finding the Golden Slipper winner as you did of pulling a sheila at the old Boiler Room at City Tatts,” Tony laughed.

(Now, that’s no laughing matter but a story which we’ll save for, well, NEVER!)

“But I think I just might be able to steer you onto the 2015 slipper winner,” Tony said loudly.

Half the people in the restaurant were suddenly all ears!

“John O’Shea’s got one called Ottoman and I tell ya what, crikey she looked the goods when winning at her debut,” he said.

“I didn’t back her at her first and only start (at Rosehill on December 20) because she was long odds on but I made her a special on Sky Channel because of her outstanding trial win at Warwick Farm on December 9.

“In the trial, she began smartly and was always near the lead but in her debut, she was a bit tardy when they jumped and settled in 10th place.

“She was still with the capcatchers about 10 lengths off the lead on straightening but she absolutely screamed down the outside to win in the shadows of the post.

“I think missing the kick was an aberration and I’m sure John will have her fully primed when she next sports silks – her trainer will probably give her the one run before tackling the slipper.

“O’Shea has had eight twoyear-old winners this season and he’s produced a couple of very good youngsters such as Furnace, Holler and Haptic but the strapping Ottoman, who looks more like a three-year-old than a youngster, does look the best of them.”

With blokes all around the restaurant ringing their bookies to get on early, we paid the bill (too slow these days to do a runner) and walked into the pub’s TAB to back a 6/4 loser at Timbuktu or somewhere!

So there you have it folks, one of the best judges in the land has given us a head-start for the Golden Slipper.

HIGH MARKS: Ange Postecoglou and the Socceroos for their superb performances throughout the Asian Cup. SAD MARKS: What a miserable day the other week with the passing of three people who were beloved by all fair dinkum Australians – author extraordinaire Colleen McCullough, golfing great Kel Nagle and the incomparable ex-boxer and politician, Tom Uren.