Nepeannews 5march2015

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FREE Candidate Prue CAR Labor for Londonderry Phone 0450 659 811 Email prue.car@nswlabor.org.au

Thursday, 5 March 2015

ISSUE 144

Authorised by John Thain 33 Jackaranda Rd, St Marys

UP THE PANTHERS! THIS IS OUR YEAR! UP THE PANTHERS!

BOILING ISSUE

The kids at Bennett Rd Pubic school have been sweltering on summer days in classrooms without air conditioning and the parents have had enough. With the help of Liberal Candidate for Londonderry Bernard Bratusa, a campaign is in full swing to Help These Kids Be Cool. Full story p9.

Have your say

JACKIE KELLY VOTE 1

3 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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THIS ELECTION MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT Send a messsage TIRED OF BEING TAKEN FOR GRANTED FEELING IGNORED

TANYA Davies, Member for Mulgoa is encouraging her community to take advantage of the public consultation period for the new Glenmore Park school for children with special needs.

Last June 2014 the Minister for Education together with Tanya Davies announced a multimillion dollar school for children with special needs will be built on the land bordered by Ridgetop Drive at the entrance to Forest Ridge, Glenmore Park.

“This multi-million dollar school will be purpose-built for accessibility with covered walkways, covered outdoor learning areas and a special

drop-off area for students” said Tanya Davies.

An information booth is planned to be set up at the Glenmore Park Town Centre shops on Thursday 12th March between 12.00 noon and 7.00pm.

“I will personally be attending this consultation session with the local community from 4:30 to 5:30pm that day, and I encourage residents in the local area to attend this event also” Tanya Davies said.

Meanwhile, information brochures will be delivered to approximately 150 residential properties close to the school site.

• • • • • • • •

no consultation on airport at Badgerys Creek (not even for a curfew) no consultation on route of M9 and train line from Liverpool to Penrith no consultation on changes to Western train line timetable no consultation on access to Upper Castlereagh Methodist Church and McCarthys cemetery no consultation on Green bridge no consultation on changes to TAFE no consultation on power sell off no consultation on developments in our area

JACKIE KELLY MAKING THEM LISTEN

Tanya Davies Member for Mulgoa

Phone (02) 9833 2913 Address Shop 1/159 Queen St, St Marys Email mulgoa@parliament.nsw.gov.au Mail PO Box 138, St Marys NSW 1790

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by Kerrie Davies IF you’re not into politics, this month is probably going to be about as fun as giving birth to an echidna.

Every paper you pick up (including this one!) is going to be chock-full of politicians seeking your vote in the state election held on March 28.

Every tv and radio station is going to want to serve you up a belly full as well.

But on top of all the state political stuff, the rumour mill insists on feeding the media (or is it the media is feeding the rumour mill?) on leadership issues in the federal government.

Most voters felt like the Rudd/Gillard/Rudd shenanigans of not so long ago were an embarrassment and were happy to make them pay for their apparent narcissism at the ballot box. Yet here we are again.

Almost daily we are hearing that Tony Abbott’s days might be numbered.

But with each “fresh” story on the issue we hear the same lines trotted out and everyone is “just getting on with the job.”

Whether you’re a Turnbull fan, an Abbott fan or neither, there’s a real danger lurking in the waters that our politicians are beginning to make a habit of swimming in.

Polls go up and down through every Prime Minister or Premier’s tenure.

It’s the way it is, because every policy decision made will have the token cheering squad as well as the band of boo-hooers. Every single one of them.

So if leaders risk being knifed the minute their polls go south, we’ll never have anyone making any vital decisions for the country.

And sometimes unpopular decisions do need to be made for our own good.

We are at risk of our nation descending into the ridiculous; like an excruciatingly long episode of Big Brother - not everyone liked what you just said so that’s it, you’re out.

Every Prime Minister in history will have done something you liked and something you didn’t.

If they were there long enough to do all that they are capable of, that is.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

localnews local MINISTER for Fair Trading Matthew Mason-Cox and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres this week presented Muru Mittigar with a cheque of more than $47,500 to fund their work with the No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS).

Mr Mason-Cox said that no interest loans offer an alternative to high cost credit products such as payday lenders and rent-to-buy schemes.

“The NSW Government is continuing to do all we can to support local residents and families who may be excluded from access to financial services many of us take for granted,” Mr Mason-Cox said.

“NILS is a practical hand up rather than a hand out with loans being repaid in more than 95 per cent of cases. “This ensures funds are put back into the scheme to assist others and supports loan recipients to establish credit ratings and get finance in the future.”

Mr Ayres welcomed the funds for the Penrith area.

“It is pleasing to see the grant of $47,590 per annum being provided for the local area,” Mr Ayres said.

“NILS supports residents of the Penrith area who may have fallen on hard times and gets their life back on track.

“It is a major contributor to breaking the

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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PROGRAMMES poverty cycle with loans paid back to help other financially disadvantaged members of the community who would otherwise not qualify for financial loans.

“Under the NILS program, interest-free loans of up to $1,200 are allocated to low income earners to buy essential household goods or medical and dental care.”

Mr Mason-Cox said each year the NSW Government, through NSW Fair Trading, provides $2.3 million in funding for the administration of the NILS program.

NSW Fair Trading is visiting the Penrith region as part of the My Place community education program.

For information on the My Place Program visit www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or phone 13 32 20.

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Public housing crackdown STUART Ayres MP, Member for Penrith and Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa have announced a re-elected Baird Government will crack down on anti-social and illegal behaviour in public housing communities and evict tenants who commit serious crimes.

“Public housing is a privilege, not a right. We will have no tolerance for people who don’t play by the rules and who make other people’s lives a misery,” Stuart Ayres said “I am sick and tired of a small criminal element terrorising their neighbours and selling drugs in public housing.

“That is why we are increasing powers to immediately kick out serious criminals in public housing.”

Tanya Davies said a Three Strikes policy for public housing tenants who continually break the rules will be introduced.

“People living in social housing in areas want us to take strong action against those who do the wrong thing,” Mrs Davies said.

“A recent survey of public housing tenants found about twothirds of them think illegal behavior is a problem in public housing and about 30 per cent have experienced or

witnessed serious crime.

“The big winners from this announcement are the vast majority of good people in social housing. For too long they have had to put up with the poor behaviour of a minority.

“We have almost 60,000 people on the waiting list, which is why we are ensuring we penalise those who commit serious crimes in public housing.”

A re-elected Baird Government will: • Introduce a One Strike policy for those who seriously breach their tenancy agreement, so that the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal must terminate a tenancy where it

is proven that the individual has committed certain serious criminal offences – including serious drug crimes; • mplement a Three Strikes policy so that Family and Community Services officials can issue a Notice of Termination if a tenant has received three Breach of Tenancy Agreement notices in a 12 month period; • Introduce 12 month probationary leases for public housing tenancies of longer than two years; • Introduce confidential Neighbour Impact Statements so the Tribunal has to take account of the impact of bad behaviour on neighbours and neighbours are protected from

recriminations; and • Change the law to ensure that tenants that do not pay rent can be evicted. This is specifically aimed at those people clocking up large rental arrears through fraudulent nondeclaration of income or assets.

Tanya Davies added the Baird Government will also deliver a $20 million Social Housing Community Improvement Fund to improve the livability and amenity of social housing communities.

“The fund will enable local community groups, local councils, private sector organisations or a combination of these to deliver projects that communities want and need,” Stuart Ayres said.

“Grants of up to $50,000 per project will be available for projects that improve community infrastructure, enhance open spaces, improve safety, increase accessibility for older people or people with disability or facilitate integration between social housing and the broader community.

“Small projects, like creating a community garden or improving a community centre, can make a big difference to communities and people.

Riding for BeyondBlue

By Garion Thain

MARK Ranftl intends to undertake a gruelling and unusual challenge this April, to raise awareness for the three million Australians suffering from anxiety and depression.

On April 8, Mark will cycle 239 km straight to raise money for BeyondBlue.

His trip, starting in Oran Park in NSW and taking him to the ANU Psychology Clinic in the ACT, will take an estimated 13 hours to complete.

Mr Ranftl needs support from the community to help raise money before his April ride.

“I had to do something challenging enough to make people want to donate,” Mr Ranftl said.

“Any less and it takes the gravity away from it.”

Mark’s Everyday Hero page where he is accepting donations says he has a lot of faith in BeyondBlue and their track record.

“I believe in BeyondBlue and the help it can provide for the people in Australia.

“People need to know that there is help out there and that they don’t have to suffer alone and in silence.”

Mr Ranftl is an educator, the Head

of Music at Wollemi College. The college is an independent boy’s college in Werrington founded by the Parents for Education Foundation. Mr Ranftl says the school focuses a lot on character building and involves the parents in the education. Setting an example on maturity in regards to mental health issues, Mr Ranftl says, “Lots of people suffer from depression and anxiety and don’t even know they have it, and could have a lot of difficulty coping with this.

“Awareness is important because it helps others identify these issues and can allow them to get the help for it that is out there.”

BeyondBlue is an organisation that has spent much time raising awareness about mental health issues in Australia. Their site says their aim is to “[work] to reduce the impact of anxiety, depression and suicide in the community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help, and supporting recovery, management and resilience.”

Mark is raising money for BeyondBlue before the ride at everydayhero.com. His page can be found at give.everydayhero.com/au/ mark-79

Mark Ranftl will be cycling over 200 kilometres this April to raise awareness for depression and to support BeyondBlue.

7 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Candidates lay game plans

By Garion Thain

A PUBLIC forum at Penrith RSL hosted by Penrith Valley Community Unions saw seven candidates from three different electorates and affiliations discuss various state related issues.

Electricity privatisation was a hot topic at the forum which also saw the matters of public transport and infrastructure, TAFE funding and even the Badgerys Creek airport discussed.

Greens candidates Kingsley Liu, Shane Gorman and Mark O’Sullivan for the seats of Mulgoa, Londonderry and Penrith respectively each spoke of the protection of environmental assets as well as the importance of maintaining and improving the infrastructure of Public Transport.

The matter of electricity privatisation and arguments against TAFE cuts were heavily focused on by the Labor Candidates. Ms Car said her constituents had been telling her they were against the selling of polls and wires.

Todd Carney, himself a former TAFE student, particularly defended the affordability TAFE courses usually provide.

‘People can’t last too long in heavy

Seven candidates from three electorates put forward their views on state issues at a Candidates forum at Penrith RSL in February.

labour jobs anymore.’ Mr Carney said.

‘TAFE allows people to move from job to job with low cost.’

Mr Carney advocated contestable funding being capped at 30%.

Jackie Kelly, running as an independent for Penrith spent most of the evening lambasting the Badgerys Creek airport.

‘Anything about jobs in Badgerys Creek is a con job.’ Ms Kelly said.

‘We’re selling out our peace and quiet. There’s nothing in the forward estimation about a curfew.’

Sale starts - 16/1/2015 Finishes - 19/3/2015

On the subject of TAFE cuts, Ms Kelly said that there is a ‘yawing chasm’ between the decision makers and those affected by it and called her former party ‘gutless.’

Ms Kelly was also quite receptive to the closing address of Greens candidate Shane Gorman saying it was great to see young people invested in politics.

Shane Gorman turned to anecdotes to sell his viewpoint on public services.

‘I have a lot of compassion for my community.’ Mr Gorman said.

‘In an area I thought stopped caring about politics I’ve seen so many people embroiled in politics and important issues – public services are the last facet the government has right to now to have an impact on our quality of life.’

Aside from Jackie Kelly six candidates also signed a pledge from PCVU outlining the group’s views on protecting the jobs, services and rights of the community.

No candidates from the Liberal Party were present at the evening.

Boiling hot local issue

sure some people contribute to this great cause.”

Mr Bratusa said the school is a shining example of our public education system.

Enrollments have again risen this year which he said is due to the passionate teaching staff and a hard

By Kerrie Davies

WITH classroom temperatures sending the mercury soaring up well into the 40’s in the absence of air-conditioning, the parents of children at Bennett Rd Public School are saying enough is enough.

Ursula Crow from the school’s P & C said air conditioning was absolutely vital to the children’s learning and safety.

“Temperatures have been reported inside the classroom as high as 46 degrees. The kids are obviously unwell, a few bloody noses and my son came home with heatstroke,” Ursula said.

“The parents have been trying to get something done about this for years. It just keeps getting put in the too hard basket, it’s just too hard, as in the money’s too much.”

An upgrade to the school’s electricity needs to be completed in order for air conditioning to be installed, so with the balance remaining on the upgrade funds combined with the cost of adequate air conditioning, the school needs to raise in the vicinity of $200,000.

The P & C have been extremely active in trying to raise funds, including rolling ‘Dan The Dollar Man’ around in which people can put money into.

Cr Bernard Bratusa, who is the Liberal’s Candidate for Londonderry visited the school a few times last year in his capacity of Councillor for awards ceremonies.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to visit this great school on several occasions, and the last time I was here Michelle and Ursula crash-tackled me and said have you got a minute?” Mr Bratusa remembered, smiling.

“When I heard what their issue was, we set up some meetings.

“What they are asking for is not unrealistic.

“These guys have been working feverishly to get petitions signed, and they’ve got thousands of signatures.

This is a hardworking old-school style P & C group who aren’t just staying idle, they’re rolling their sleeves up.”

To the delight of the P & C mums, Mr Bratusa has committed to helping the ladies fund-raise towards getting 29 classrooms air conditioned.

“I’m taking Dollar Dan out on a date,” he quipped. “And I’ll make

working P & C. “I understand there is an air conditioning policy, but I also believe each case should be addressed on its merits,” he said.

“That is why I am working very closely with the Minister for Education to deliver a positive outcome for the students who attend Bennett Road Public School.”

Ursula, Michelle Lyons and a few other mums gathered at the school gate this week to discuss the next steps of the campaign for air-conditioning with Mr Bratusa.

“We’re really grateful for all the help that Bernard is offering. We just want to see some results for our kids and the teachers,” Ursula said.

9 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Clean up day CLEAN Up Australia Day is celebrating its 25th Clean Up in 2015 which will be held on Sunday 1 March.

Since the national event started in 1990 Australians have donated more than 27.2 million hours taking to their streets, bushland, parks and waterways on Clean Up Australia Day, removing an estimated 288,650 tonnes of rubbish from 145,754 sites across the country.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said getting involved is very easy.

“Residents can choose a location that needs cleaning or volunteer at an existing site,” Cr Fowler said.

“There are a number of sites around Penrith earmarked for a clean up like Regatta Park and Cranebrook Bushland.”

Over 40 sites in the Penrith Local Government Area have already been registered at www. c l e a n u p a u s t r a l i a d a y. o rg . a u Anyone wishing to take part in the day should visit the website to find a location near them or register a new site for volunteers.

For more details or to register: www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au

Funding Promised

By Garion Thain

PRUE Car, Labor Candidate for Londonderry announced last week that a Foley government will allocate $63,000 to upgrading the Ropes Crossing Community Hub at a visit with Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali, Councillor Charlie Lowles and Ropes Crossing locals.

The visit comes after a string of appearances by Ms Car announcing funding for other public spaces and schools in the Nepean area.

Ms Car said she is proud her party is promising to invest in the Greater Western Sydney community.

“Ropes Crossing is a fantastic place to live,” Ms Car said.

‘It is one of our community’s fastest growing suburbs with over 2,200 homes and 6,000 residents – that’s why we need to make sure it has the very best facilities.”

The $63,000 will be used to install barbeque facilities, a shade cover and louvers at the hub. The currently seldom used veggie gardens will be relocated to the front of the hub for easier access, as their old spot will be supplanted by the new facilities.

Ms Car notes that the hub

Labor Candidate for Londonderry Prue Car joined Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali in announcing a $63,000 upgrade to the Ropes Crossing Community Hub that would be provided in a Foley government.

serves an important part of Ropes Crossing and has grown to provide numerous services to the suburb’s community.

“It is obvious to me this community centre has benefitted the community with opportunities to socialise, a disability group and

computer courses,” Ms Car said.

It is hoped that the suggested upgrade, listed in Blacktown City Council’s Works Improvement Program will see the hub grow with even more visitors from what Ms Car says is Ropes Crossing’s diverse community.

Blood sport: Candidates disgusted at cruelty

By Kerrie Davies

MEMBERS from the Greens met with representatives from local animal rescue groups outside Richmond Racing Club on Wednesday to call on Western Sydney Liberal and Labor candidates to commit to suspending all greyhound races following revelations of widespread live baiting in the industry.

“Despite the horrific cruelty exposed in Western Sydney and elsewhere, neither the Liberal-National government or Labor Opposition have done enough to address this growing animal welfare crisis,” Greens Candidate for Londonderry Shane Gorman said.

“I firmly believe sport is an integral part of Australian society, and in sports involving people much has been done to improve on ethics. Animal-related sports have proved tougher to manage.

“The blooding of greyhounds for racing is a terrible practice. Training grounds exposed recently on Four Corners show that this is being done locally as well.”

The term ‘blooding’ refers to training race dogs with live bait; usually possums and rabbits.

Londonderry Greens Candidate Shane Gorman

“There are a lot of high-profile people dedicated or linked to the sport; how long has this been going on?” Mr Gorman said.

“The Baird government have failed to prioritise the rehabilitation and re-homing of dogs that will be disqualified from racing and are at risk of being killed or abandoned.

“Whilst the dogs are re-homeable, it requires a lot of care and hard work. It is important that despite the experiences these greyhounds have gone through there are kind and compassionate people who will go to lengths to rehabilitate these animals and in fact successfully re-home them.

“The Labor party are refusing to

retract their offer to grant the industry a $13 million tax break if they win the election in March.,” he added.

Mr Gorman is calling on Labor and Liberal Candidates to back the Greens by encouraging suspension at training grounds or the races as a whole.

“At the very least, guidelines need to be put in place to stamp out this inhumane practice,” Mr Gorman said.

While the Labor and Liberal Candidates stopped short of calling for the suspension of greyhound racing, they did express their disgust at the reports.

Labor Candidate for Londonderry Prue Car said there was an opportunity to get a broader mix of expertise on the

Greyhound NSW board. This includes a role for the NSW police, the RSPCA and the Chief Veterinary Officer.

“Like many others I was horrified when I saw the Four Corners episode,” Mrs Car said.

“This practice is cruel, abhorrent and sickening. Anybody who has occupied a position of responsibility during this time and presided over it – Labor is happy to see them go.

“Labor was the first to demand a lifetime ban from greyhound racing on any person found to have engaged in live-baiting. Independent oversight of the sport is vital as this matter is now investigated.”

Liberal Candidate for Londonderry, Bernard Bratusa said the Baird Government believes that now is the appropriate time to shine a light through the entire industry.

“The Government has always taken the issue of animal welfare very seriously,” Mr Bratusa said.

“It is clear that the current processes within the greyhound industry have failed.

“Anyone caught blooding their dogs should be kicked out of the sport for life and the Baird Government has a plan to restore the integrity of the industry.”

11 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

TODD CARNEY Q&A Interview with the Labor Candidate for Mulgoa

By Garion Thain

WITH the upcoming NSW State Election weeks away Todd Carney, Labor Candidate for Mulgoa spoke to us about Labor’s vision for his electorate and the West before his official campaign launch this weekend.

First of all Todd, what drove you to nominate?

I think there’s a lot of different reasons; first of all education’s a big one for me. I have two young children and as someone who went through the TAFE system I want there to be good opportunities for my kids, whether it’s going through TAFE or whether it’s going through university I want all those options open to them.

Unless we have that we’re not going to be able to drive productivity, and we’re not going to be able to sustain jobs into the future if we don’t have enough people trained in them.

Another reason why is during my time with David Bradbury - dealing with the community on issues and matters, there was a lot of effort put into those issues that I dealt with and the sense that I got in getting wins for the community was great, and was some of the drive for why I chose to run.

How would you rate your chances?

It’s going to be tough there’s no doubt, but nothing’s out of possibility.

I’m going to be out there every day knocking on doors, ringing phones, whatever it takes to put my case forward, to let people know who I am and to let people know why Todd Carney would be the best thing for Mulgoa.

Will you be cutting any preference deals?

I haven’t had any discussions as of yet about any preference deals.

All I’ve been concentrating on is getting out there and talking to the community.

Todd Carney met with me to talk about the upcoming state election and to discuss the platform for his campaign.

Photo: Thomas Carey.

Speaking of talking to the community, and in regards to education which you mentioned earlier, would that be the main platform of your campaign?

There’s electricity, polls and wires and the sale of those, TAFE is another one, education in general and health are the big ones which come up when I’m talking to the community.

Every candidate and every party has their detractors. What would you say to those who may say there wasn’t enough delivered in the last government or to those who say Labor threatened to sell the polls and wires in the previous government as well?

I can’t talk for the previous state

government as I wasn’t within that government. When the sales of electricity came up in our conference I voted against it. I’ve always supported retaining that asset because it is a monopoly and an imperative source of revenue for our community.

It’s over a billion dollars a year that comes back into funding our police, funding our teachers and funding our nurses and to get rid of that would give us more issues later on. For a one off bonus you you’re not going to get the ongoing flow of revenue annually that you would if you kept that asset.

In regards to infrastructure once more, the opposition leader Luke Foley has floated promises including a vow to ‘fix WestConnex.’

Although these promises are more moderate how would a new Labor government afford to deliver these plans?

These have all been budgeted and we’ve had the parliamentary budget office go over these figures. Just over 5 billion dollars from the 10 billion dollars’ worth of commitments will be coming from us deferring some tax relief from some businesses. It’s a similar thing to what Baird had done previously on these particular taxes. There’s also another 4.9 billion dollars which is still sitting in the budget which has not been expended by the Baird government.

So that’s where our 10 billion dollars has come from and that’s within the budget now, and these measures have been put through the rigours of the parliamentary budget office. The alternative is Mike Baird’s plan to sell the Poles and Wires, however there’s no guarantee he’ll get it through the parliament, and there’s no guarantee that he’ll get the money he says he will from it.

Also as most Mums and Dads know, to raise the 5 billion dollars he says he will through investing that money he’ll have to invest it for a long period of time. So how will Mike Baird build that infrastructure while he’s got that money sitting away in a bank?

Lastly, if there is one thing you could say directly to the people of Mulgoa, what would that be?

The one big thing on a local level is actually giving the community a say. People are sick to death of being dictated to by politicians. We’ve got to get out there and actually ask the questions to the community. We can’t be putting through infrastructure plans or changing funding without talking to the community, which is why I’m out there every day talking to them. They deserve better, they deserve that respect and I will give them that respect.

Part of Allen Place car park closed to ensure public safety THE Allen Place car park ramps will be closed to traffic and removed and the elevated part of the car park closed to ensure public safety.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Council was aware that the ramps were ageing and had been undertaking regular safety checks of them.

“Council has undertaken regular safety inspections and also spent significant amounts over the years to keep the ramps in operation,” Councillor Fowler said.

“The ramps are 40 years old and nearing the end of their effective life. However, the unexpected rapid rate of deterioration means we have no choice

but to remove the ramps now.

“Public safety, of course, comes first and this issue is one of immediate and serious concern for public risk. Council has no alternative but to remove the ramps. This will make the car park inaccessible.

The car park structure apart from the ramps remains safe.

Due to the closure 80 public spots, mainly used by commuters, and access to paid parking spots in the Trade Centre building will also be unavailable.

Council will provide an extra 120 spots near Woodriff Gardens (Tennis courts opposite Jane Street).

“Although not as central to the CBD, we believe Woodriff Gardens is the best initial outcome, especially for commuters as it is still reasonably close to the rail line,” Mayor Fowler said.

“In recent times more car parking spots have been made available including an extra 50 spots at Judges Car Park, Transport NSW has provided an extra 90 spots near the railway station and there are 80 extra spots with the re-opening of the Thornton access road to the North Penrith Car Park.

“Council is currently working on longer term solutions to Allen Place and CBD car parking in general.”

JACKIE KELLY Q&A

Interview with the independent candidate for Penrith

By Kerrie Davies

SHE was a former Minister and Lindsay MP but now Jackie Kelly has handed in her Liberal Party membership and is running as independent for the seat of Penrith. I sat down with Jackie and asked her to outline her vision for Penrith.

Jackie, what drove your to nominate as an independent?

It was school holidays.

My daughter’s school had this trip where the parents and kids were all going to Europe in the school holidays, as you do, and we hop on a plane with the teachers and they announce Badgery’s Creek. While I’m in London. The timing of it. Why? You had all year, you must have known at the start of the school term this was on. Why are these announcements always made at Christmas time and we’re given until the end of the school holidays to reply? It should be mandated that all these announcements be announced in the first two weeks of school term and everyone has until the last week of school term to reply. Everyone knew I was going to be away and I’m sitting there half way around the world when this stuff was going down And it was deliberate, to just run down opposition to it. That was the signifying moment.

So do you think the government saw you as a voice that they needed to avoid at that time?

Yeah. Their way of dealing with me is simply to try and ignore it. You know hide away and pretend its not going to happen. Sorry, I’m on the phone to Alan Jones from London and at that point I just thought that’s it, that’s so wrong, lets get a candidate.

One question I am often asked when your name is raised, is what you can really do about the airport from a state level?

Thirty per cent of the vote is Liberal, thirty percent of the vote is Labor. That leaves 40 per cent undecided. If I can get half of that, come the federal election they’ll be pooping their pants and I won’t be just in Penrith, I’ll be across western Sydney - because I’ll know I’m right.

Twenty percent of the vote in western Sydney? Put the airport in if you dare.

If you don’t get through at the state election, will you run for federal? (Lindsay?)

Yeah. Look, if I am encouraged by the result at the state election, that’s what I’m hoping to do. It’s a warning shot across the bow. If I’m encouraged, clearly do not sign that contract in June or we will punish you. You had better wait until after the next election, because you’ll be

wasting a hell of a lot of money, tax payers money, reversing it.

How do you rate your chances?

Seriously, if I got elected, the Liberal Party and the Labor Party just have to reform themselves. Instantly.

The Liberal Party has to adopt Howard’s reforms. The Labor Party would have to let go of the 50 per cent union representation. Overnight.

Those guys have to reform their internal selves, because that result by me is telling them that people are over owned major parties. Major parties that rule members by this fear and intimidation. It’s a slap in the face to major parties in that we will go anywhere except for you guys.

If you do get elected, obviously it is going to be challenging because you wont be part of one these major machines, how do you have any control?

For years people in western Sydney have been really peed off with these independents like in Tasmania and around that get lots of infrastructure and money spent in their area because they were these lone votes to be bought. Mate, western Sydney suddenly has me! If you’ve got some nonsense issue, buy my vote. Give me some infrastructure Let’s talk turkey. What are you going to do for western Sydney? I just think as an independent you have a far greater time and far more fun and can do much more for western Sydney

than these guys are, who sit there saying they’re representing us then shut up on something like the bloody airport. We have been dudded.

My specialty is voter education.

You will know about it, that’s my promise. I can’t promise I suppose as an independent I can’t really do much about it, but mate you’ll know about it and your voice will be heard.

There won’t be this dead of night, slip it in and that’s the first you hear about it. There’s no way if we’d have had proper representation we’d have been dealt with this way on the airport. No way.

If you’re the state member for Penrith, you’re going to have Fiona Scott to deal with in Lindsay, how is that going to work?

Well if I am elected, or I’m encouraged by the result I’ll have to set up my own western Sydney party and we’ll be running a candidate against her. I’m taking this all the way. Recently they were going to have an outdoor cinema across the river. I was going to hold a sign up (from my place) saying “You wouldn’t be doing this if there was an airport would you?” But it got rained out so I could’t do it So hypothetically, if you were to not get in at the state level but you did get in again in Lindsay, as a former Liberal MP how do you face your old colleagues in Parliament?

I think a few of them would join

me! Everyone is over the culture of fear and intimidation. I think 30 per cent of the Liberal party actually back me. It’s not the party they joined.

Branch members feel used, there’s no forum. Dissenters are not allowed. If you want to be a dissenter, leave. It’s like the Catholic church defending pedophile priests, sorry you can still be a Catholic but I don’t have to say you did the right thing defending that guy. Hey, I can be a Liberal and yet say your structure sucks. You really have to reform that because that just stinks. I’ve got too many people in this community expecting me to do something. Yeah I’m happy to run, so here I am.

Having ran previously as a Liberal, is it challenging now as an independent?

Oh my oath, much different. I’m working with amateurs and naive people. In politics you’re dealing with paid personnel, with a certain level of expertise where as here you’re dealing with volunteers and just finding someone with word processing skills is a challenge.

Where do you stand regarding the approvals for the Islamic Prayer Halls, given that you were MC at the forum recently?

Well look, I don’t want to get mixed up in that given obviously my husband’s stance on that. I don’t want it to be a defining thing because I don’t want anything to distract from my campaign on the airport. But again, for me that was a stand-up issue in that people were not being heard. First thing they knew about this development and it impacts them in a major way, and the first time they hear about it, it’s a done deal and there’s nothing they can do about it.

You can sit there and say it’s a bunch of bigots but it is not, it’s really quite a chasm in the local community. People are really riled up about this.

Some of the Councillors say it’s the LEP, that’s a state issue for you if you’re elected isn’t it?

People are really over that crappy excuse. They are really over it because they don’t give a flying hoot.

We’ve got state candidates that have been on council and have worked for federal members. You’re Liberal and you’re Labor, you’ve got more chance of talking to your friend over there than I do and I’ve just happened to cross you at the markets. Just fix it, I don’t want to be chasing around every level of government when I’ve got you right here, just fix it. Palming them off saying its a state or federal issue incenses them. The voter is not wearing that anymore.

See next edition for part 2 of the interview with Jackie Kelly.

13 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Popping up for some rejuven8ing

THE Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce held the first of the “ Pop Up” series at the Rejuven8 Body studio.

The “ Pop Up” series are random boutique style events for a more intimate style of networking for smaller groups.

Ten guests attended the event, some of which got to hop in some of the machines and try them out.

“We had loads of food provided

Nita

from Soul Origin in Westfields food court - wraps, rustic sandwiches and panini sandwiches. We also had wine, champagne and orange juice,” said Megan from the Body Studio.

“We spoke about injectables, skin care and skin treatments, Formostar, Infrared wraps, Vibrosaun, Hypoxi, Isagenix, weightloss and cellulite in general.

“We had amazing specials and goodie bags with lots of treats and

freebies in them, including; free trials on machines, Tan Towel samples, Green Tea Hawaii samples, vouchers from soul origin, Nimue Lip Gloss and Nimue Skin Care.

“The night was a big hit and we all had lots of fun.”

Those in attendance thoroughly enjoyed themselves too.

“We had an absolutely fantastic time mingling and trialing all of the equipment whilst feasting on the

wonderful delights and drinks that the ladies at the studio provided for us,” said Gina Field, President of the PVCC. Gina is an attendee of the body studio and has lost 5 kilos ( dropping two dress sizes) in just two weeks using the Formstar and the Vibrasuan.

“It’s an hour of relaxation that equals time a couple of hours in the gym - it’s a no brainer!” Gina said.

Make sure you choose carefully

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

A government body called the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) has a law against advertising schedule 4 drugs.

COSMETIC fillers and anti wrinkle injections are schedule 4 drugs.

That means words such as “Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Juverderm and Restylane” cannot be used in advertising.

This leads to consumer ignorance, as they cannot make an educated decision to compare pricing.

Dysport units are not equivalent to Botox units. Advertisements such as $3.90 per unit is very misleading.

There are 2.5 Dysport units to 1 Botox unit. So in fact it is $3.90(dysport) x 2.5 that really equals to $9.75 per unit.

Cosmetic injection services are popping up everywhere. In laser chains, beauty salons, dentist and even hairdressers!

Choose wisely .What price do you put on experience,reputation, service, contactability, follow up service, excellent results and medical supervision?

When you consider what you really get at a Medical Cosmetic Clinic verses a fast quick beauty service. It’s actually very well priced.

After all what value do you put on highly trained and skilled professionals?

Ask yourself when considering a cosmetic injectable service.

How qualified is the injector?

Experience?

Reputation?

Medical Authority?

Doctors on the premise?

Emergency equipment on the premise?

Emergency drugs on the premise?

What are the follow up procedures and after care?

Is the injector readily available if a problem occurs?

Are they insured?

So when considering cosmetic injections remember that it is a MEDICAL procedure.

Would you go to a hairdresser for a pap smear?

Why should cosmetic injectables be performed in a medical setting?

A doctor to authorise is required by law.

Fillers near the frown line can cause blindness.

Fillers can cause blood vessels to block and cause necrosis.

Muscle relaxants could relax the wrong muscle and can cause poor results.

Allergies and anaphylactic shock have occurred with an enzyme injection called hyalase (used when dissolving a filler).

Infections can occur. Requiring scripts of antibiotics.

Lumps such as granulomas can occur after some dermal stimulants.

When any of these adverse events happen ask yourself, how will it really be handled?

Choose carefully.

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Warning to pet owners SIGNS OF POISONING How can I tell if my dog has been posioned?

The time-lag between ingestion and appearance of clinical signs may be a reflection of the dose received, and can range from 3 to 20 hours.

Signs observed are the result of nervous and respiratory system dysfunction and include: • Frenzied behaviour such as running and howling • Hypersensitivity to sound and light • Vomitting • Urinating and defecating uncontrollably If early action is not taken, signs progress to: • Convulsions (seizures/fitting) • Difficulty breathing • Respiratoy failure • Coma • Death The effects of 1080 on the brain of the dog are claimed to be similar to those associated with epileptic fits in humans where a severe lack of muscular control is not accompanied by a perception of pain. It is also believed that convulsions begin after the dog becomes unconscious.

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT

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

SENIOR VETERINARIAN NEPEAN & MOUNTAINS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

WELLPET Vets warns pet owners in Western Sydney that the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is undertaking a fox baiting program in the Mulgoa Nature reserve from the 4th to the 27th March 2015. The bait being used is 1080.

The program aims to protect a range of native fauna, especially the bush rat ”Rattuss fuscipes“, which was thought locally extinct until recently.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife have performed risk assessments and strict risk minimisation strategies are being used to prevent or minimise risks associated with the baiting.

These include; burying baits at least

twice the minimum distance from houses (300m), public notification, extensive signage, use of a pre-made bait rather than a fresh meat bait and regular monitoring of baits.

The most significant risk is the non-target baiting of domestic pets, particularly dogs. Cats are unlikely to dig and consume baits. Given the strict measures being employed during the baiting program, the only risk exposing domestic pets to baits is if people allow their pets to roam, if they stray or if people walk dogs in areas where baiting is being undertaken.

We recommend you keep your pets clear of this area during this time

15 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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to avoid any risks to your pet. If you suspect your pet has come into contact or ingested a 1080 bait then please contact your vet immediately on 1300 WELLPET. 1080 is a very nasty poison, causing rapid onset of severe tremors and seizures. If your pet starts shaking, drooling excessively or appears disoriented call your vet immediately.

The Western Sydney Veterinary Emergency Service, operating out of Nepean Animal Hospital, 50 Mulgoa Rd, Regentville is open and staffed 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Call us on 1300 WELLPET (1300 935 573) for assistance.

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)

16 Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

I COULDN’T wait to meet Alan Whiticker for this interview.

This prolific writer – he has put his name to 40 publications – (crikey, that’s Bryce Courtenay-ish) – and is widely regarded as one of Australia’s foremost rugby league historians.

So I was as keen as mustard to ask him to list the players who pull on jerseys in his All Australian Team

and of course, his All Penrith Panthers team.

More on that later! I will list both those teams at the end of this article.

Oi! Get back here!

Just like his neighbour around the corner over in South Penrith, my esteemed colleague, Mark Geyer, the 57-year-old Alan is a proud Westie and an unabashed Panthers supporter.

He’s supported the Panthers through the highs and the lows – from the days of Chocolate Soldiers easyAlan and Karen Whiticker on their wedding day.

beats tag through to two premierships and continued success in recent seasons.

It was his passion for rugby league and its history which was the catalyst for him putting pen to paper – oops, fingers to keyboards – and producing a plethora of books on the Greatest Game of All. He first ventured into writing and publishing in 1988 when he took a hiatus from teaching to try and kickstart a long-held desire to write.

That year he produced History of the Balmain Tigers and History of the North Sydney Bears – he also did the research on a club history of the Penrith Panthers which was also published that year.

Then followed a succession of successful publications on his beloved rugby league.

These include: History of Grand Finals, The Terry Lamb Story, From Bush to Brookvale: the Cliff Lyons story, The History of Rugby League Clubs, 100 Years of Rugby League, Encyclopaedia of Rugby League, Mud Blood and Beer – Rugby League in the 1970s and his latest “good read” on footy, 100 Best of the Best.

Aiding and abetting Alan in many

of his league publication is his great mate, Ian Collis.

But this multi-talented writer has also had great success away from league, producing books on a wide range of subject.

His books include: Super Rugby: A History of Super 12 and Super 14 Competitions, Jimmy Barnes: Say it Loud, Wanda: the Untold Story of the Wanda Beach Murders, The Battle of Troy: an Adaptation of Homer’s Iliad, Searching for the Beaumont Children, 101 Crimes that Shocked the Nation and Speeches that Reshaped the Modern World and his latest venture, The British Pop Invasion.

(I got a copy for Christmas and, like, A. Whiticker, being a Beatles and 60s music tragic, I found it absorbing reading).

Alan’s latest project is researching, writing and editing Retro New York which will be on bookstands in time for the Christmas book-buying rush.

“It will be 400 pages long and contain photographs of iconic New York buildings, street scenes and lots, lots more,” he said.

“I am really enjoying going through all the photographs, doing the research and compiling it into what

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at the then Nepean College of Advanced Education (now University of Western Sydney) and graduated three years down the track with a Diploma in Teaching.

As well; as winning a degree, he also won the heart of a fellow student – he and Karen, who is still teaching, are the proud parents to Tim, 29, a projects manager with NSW Greyhounds and Melanie, 26, a mental health professional.

Alan was never one to shirk a task and continued his education by attending night school and weekend classes to attain a Bachelor Education (1980) and Master’s Degree in 1990.

He was able to mix teaching and writing until 2006 – he reserved his long summer holidays for writing.

“But by 2006 I was bringing in enough money from the royalties on enough of the books for me to begin writing full-time,” Alan said.

OK, unless you haven’t fudged, here is what you have been waiting for: Alan’s All-Time Australian and All-time Penrith sides.

Penrith Panthers: Fullback: Michael Gordon. Wingers: Bob Landers, Paul Smith. Centres: Brad Fittler, Ryan Girdle . Five-eighth: Brad

we are hoping will prove popular both here and of course in the much bigger market in the US.” Since 2010, Alan has also worn another cap as Commissioning Editor with Fiona Schultze’s highlyrespected New Holland Publishers.

Yes, a multi-talented man!

Alan, has always had a passion for writing and as a child, recovering from a bout of polio which left him with a dicky right leg, he loved writing, compiling scrapbooks and painting.

“Rex Mossop’s rugby league TV show at the time held this painting competition for kids and I entered a painting of Cronulla’s Terry Hughes who had won the first Rothman’s Medal,” Alan explained.

“I won it and you know what the prize was? A pair of BVDs (underpants) which would have fitted Artie Beetson at his biggest!”

On leaving St Dominic’s College at the end of his secondary education, Alan wanted to become a journalist and applied for a position with the Sydney Morning Herald.

“There were 1000 applicants for two copy-boy positions and I missed out,” he laughed.

So instead he took up a scholarship

Izzard. Halfback: Greg Alexander.

Lock: Col Van der Voort . Second rowers: Mark Geyer, John Cartwright.

Props: Petro Civoniceva, Bob Boland.

Hooker: Royce Simmons. Bench: Mike Stephenson, Reg Walton, Bill Ashburst, David Applebee.

Penrith Panthers: Fullback: Michael Gordon. Wingers: Bob Landers, Paul Smith. Centres: Brad Fittler, Ryan Girdle . Five-eighth: Brad Izzard. Halfback: Greg Alexander.

Lock: Col Van der Voort. Second rowers: Mark Geyer, John Cartwright.

Props: Petro Civoniceva, Bob Boland.

Hooker: Royce Simmons. Bench: Mike Stephenson, Reg Walton, Bill Ashburst, David Applebee.

Now this is Alan’s Best AllAustralian team since 1967 (limited tackle, since I’ve been watching).

Fullback: Graeme Langlands.

Wingers: Ken Irvine and Hazem El Masri, Centres: Steve Rogers and Mick Cronin. Five-eighth: Bob Fulton. Halfback: Andrew Johns.

Lock: Ron Coote. Second rowers: Bob McCarthy, Ray Price. Props: Shane Webke and John O’Neill. Hooker: Cameron Smith. Bench: Wally Lewis, Darren Lockyer, Brad fiottler, Terry Lamb.

Nepean News 10 July 2014 Issue 128

ALAN WHITICKER

17

The write stuff! Alan Whiticker at home in his “workshop”.

Alan Whiticker was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Greg Martin.

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

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

THE G SPOT

AS a small business owner planning a trip away from the ball and chain (the business) can have as much planning as an expedition to Antarctica, climbing a mountain with a toothpick and living on a chocolate bar for 90 days.

However, I was blessed enough to have grabbed a whole 24 hours away from the business (Yippee) and fly to Melbourne not so long ago.

Now those who know me are aware that I do suffer a mild type of OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) and packing my clothes (100 times) in order, and colour coded happens to be one of those OCD moments that I do cherish and most people around me love ( Not).

As a previous security officer at the airport myself (Many many moons ago) I know how the x-ray machines work and can I tell you, you can see how much money someone has in their purse, they are unbelievable. I once told a lady that I loved her crystal glasses in her bag and the etching was divine however she was not impressed as she had not unwrapped the present yet. Okay, blonde moment - thank you, I am allowed - I have the peroxide to prove it.

I know terrorists don ‘t have to dress or act a certain way, but I do find that it is always lucky old me that is the chosen winner to have the swab test done and of course my ( well packeted) clothes including my granny undies thrown all over the conveyor belt for further inspection. They are just lucky it’s not the trip home or there would be an undie alert and evacuation of the airport. (Just sayin).

What about the metal detector, seriously that thing beeps just because it hates me, I think next time I am just going to go to the airport naked and say hit me with ya best shot metal detector, knowing my luck, my earrings will go off.

The most intelligent thing that I do find is that they search for the tiniest scissors like eyebrow trimmers with blunt ends to take from our bags ( because we may stab an ant to death).

Nothing explosive (such as underarm deodorant) is permitted to get through because we, mortal citizens could blow up the plane. However you walk into the airport chemist and they sell travel packs of (oh my god) shampoo, conditioner, hairspray and (what do I see) underarm deodorant (but its mini)

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

so we will only blow up half the plane or maybe the back toilet area.

What about the array of (expensive) French perfumes that we can buy before boarding the plane that is higher in alcohol content than a metho drinking party or an alcohol swab. Sorry it’s Chanel that doesn’t count. People who buy Chanel couldn’t be a terrorist.

The scary part about it is that there may be some dude who will be on a half a million dollars a year, sitting in a lush office with a view of the world (without any security experience at all) to make all of these security decisions, and here I am a mere woman from Penrith with a small security company that has just picked holes in the system.

(Don’t thank me yet folks it gets better) trust me.

So here we are in business class, with all the airs and graces such as Sir, Madam, a newspaper in 75 different languages and more alcohol available than a Dan Murphy’s store on a clearance day.

The first thing they hand me is of course a (metal) knife and fork. As the cockpit door flies open, I am blessed to see not only the captain but the other fella that flies the plane when the

captain faints (like in the movies); they are both only about a spit’s throw away from me, with more knobs than a door convention and as many lights as a bad LSD trip.

Okay so, let me get this straight, we are in business class so we get metal everything and the economy class gets the plastic everything, but they are further away from the cockpit than business class but we get the real glass and real knife and forks. So….

20 minutes before boarding the plane I was a suspected drug mule and terrorist and now I am in business class with money so I can’t possibly want to stab, kill anyone or blow anyone up because its business class ( just gets better and better) right?

I think I’ll have one of those many free drinks now please (with the glass bottle none of that cheap plastic crap)!

The only security tips I have is to go naked to the airport on each and every trip (tick), pack your dirtiest undies just in case you get drug tested (Tick) and don’t pack any explosives or sharp objects in your carry on just wait till you get through X-rays then get it all then, at airport prices of course which is a down side (Tick).

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Dexter Dunn good!

By Greg Martin

PENRITH Paceway hosted three heats in the prestigious World Drivers Championship last Thursday night in front of a small but enthusiastic crowd of trotting fans.

Canadian driver, Jody Jamieson was the star on the night, winning the first and third of the heats – he steered Strawberry Courage to victory in the opening heat and was again at his best behind Katsidis in the final heat.

Denmark’s fabulously-named Knud Monster took out the other heat, piloting Midnight Lights to a smart win.

The World Driving Championship was completed after the final heat was run at Tabcorp Park Menangle on Inter Dominion day last Saturday.

The afternoon consisted of 10 races with seven of them being Group 1 events. The remaining three were run at Group 2 level including the final heat of the WDC. France’s Tony Le Beller drove

Marshal Dale, driven by Tony le Belle of France) leads Tralee Bromac with Norway’s Vidar Hop in the gig, in the closing stages of a heat of the World Drivers Championship at Penrith Paceway last Thursday night. Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au

the favourite Our Hi Jinx and was expected to be involved in the battle for the early lead but with a lot of speed coming from horses drawn wider on the track he got shuffled back early.

Heza Thrill, driven by Spain’s Guillermo Adrover, worked from the widest draw to find the front and led turning for home but after a strong tempo it was a horse racing just off the pace that proved too strong.

New Zealand’s Dexter Dunn

brought Global View with a welltimed run to win the race - no surprise considering the success he had during the Championship.

Global View broke the track record for 2400 metres, recording a mile rate of 1:53.4. Second was Heza Thrill and Guillermo Adrover, El Rama finished third with Norway’s Vidar Hop in the sulky.

It was a remarkable performance

by Dunn. After five heats he was in

ninth position but a strong performance at Wagga Wagga the previous Tuesday night saw him climb the leaderboard.

USA representative, the legendary Tim Tetrick picked up a drive in the Goup 1 Ladyship Mile and drove with all his renowned skills to steer Laterron into third placing behind the Mark Purdon-trained Adore Me. Adore Me set a new Australasian mile record when she stopped the clock at a sizzling 1:47.7 for the mile.

Tetrick, who has won nearly 8500 races during his distinguished career, also had a ride in the final event on the card and finished second.

Here is the 2015 World Driving Championship final pointscore: 1 Dexter Dunn (NZ) 200 points 2 Tony Le Beller (France) 146 3 Tim Tetrick (US) 142 4 Mika Forss (Finland) 139 5 Jody Jamieson (Canada) 132 6 Knud Monster (Denmark) 122 7 Chris Alford (Australia) 119 8 Pierre Vercryusse (France) 119 9 Guillermo Adrover (Spain) 10 10 Vidar Hop (Norway) 100.

Keep on truckin’ for autism

By Greg Martin

ONE line of lyrics from C.W. McCall’s worldwide hit of 1975, Convoy, has become one of the most memorable in 20th Century music - “Looks like we got us a convoy”.

And it certainly is a case of we got us a convoy when around 270 lovingly restored and maintained trucks and 30 or so clipper buses set off from Hawkesbury Showground on April 11 for the 2015 Haulin’ the Hume historic truck run.

This, the third biennial convoy which will raise funds for Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), leaves the showground at 6.30am and will to snake its way to Yass, arriving there around 4.30pm.

The convoy will head down The Northern Road to Narellan before taking the Camden Bypass and linking with the Old Hume Highway for its journey south.

It heads up over Razorback, the Hole in the Wall at Picton and then drive through Mittagong, Marulan and into Goulburn for lunch and a short display.

An international R200 leads a 1939 Dodge Truck on a bend in the 2013 Haulin’ the Hume run.

One of the organisers is Bruce Gunter, a 45-year-old Transport Compliance Consultant, himself the father of 11-year-old Peter, who suffers from autism.

“Haulin’ the Hume began in 2011 when, at the request of my retired truck driving father, Geoff, I decided to hold a vintage truck rally retracing the Old Hume Highway from Casula to Yass,” Bruce explains.

“I thought it would be a great way to use our restored commercial vehicles and pay respect to the

Bruce Gunter and his son, Peter, then 7, pose for the birdie in front of their 1957 Commer ‘Knocker’ truck.

amazing men and women who used to drive this treacherous piece of road, long before it became a multilane highway.

“The initial thought was to have around 30-40 old trucks on the run and we would have a dinner in Yass before returning to Sydney.”

“Our truck club - Western Sydney Historical Truck Club - sanctioned the run and due to the resources required I decided to advertise and gain some external interest from other likeminded enthusiasts with the thought

of raising some funds to keep the club afloat.

“I never knew that the interest would be so strong that we would end up having 143 trucks enter our first run and then our second run (last year) we had 261 vehicles and only because we capped the numbers.

“It has become enormous!

“It is, in effect, the largest road run of its type in the Southern Hemisphere and even our counterparts in the USA have said that they have never had a road run of that magnitude.

19 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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20 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Penrith Panthers – The Team

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

2015 is the Penrith Panthers’ 49th season in the top grade. It is also the Year of the Goat which is synonymous with the Penrith Panthers since their entry into the then NSWRL competition in 1967 and their subsequent premiership wins in 1991 and 2003. The question on most fans’ lips is whether after 12 years in the premiership wilderness is whether 2015 will be the Year of the Panther or will they wilt under the pressure of expectation?

It’s been well documented how Penrith, despite its burgeoning injury toll at the back end of 2014, defied the critics and won the hearts of many supporters in winning their way to a preliminary final showdown with Canterbury, falling agonisingly short of securing a place in the grand final losing 18-12. After full-time, coach Ivan Cleary simply said “It’s just not quite our time yet” but in 2015, fans will have that expectation this might just be the time, while rival NRL clubs will now have the Panthers firmly in their sights.

Penrith’s promising 2014

season has re-affirmed that under the stewardship of Phil Gould and reigning Dally M Coach of the Year Ivan Cleary, this club continues to head in the right direction both on and off the field. Since 2011, the Panthers have been one of the NRL’s more astute clubs when it comes to recruitment and retention of players and it’s no surprise that the club improved its position on the NRL ladder from 15th to 4th in just two seasons. What has many fans excited is the plethora of juniors coming through the lower grades and pressing their case for NRL selection. Having won the Holden Cup in 2013 and the NSW Cup in 2014, many talented

youngsters from these sides made their NRL debuts in 2014 including Isaah Yeo, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Bryce Cartwright, while the likes of George and Robert Jennings, Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Waqa Blake are set to make their NRL debuts in 2015, some as early as Round 1 at home to the Bulldogs.

Given Penrith’s depth, the Panthers have been quiet in the player market with the most notable 2015 additions being South Sydney’s premiership winning hooker/half Apisai Koroisau and Cronulla Sharks back-rower Tupou Sopoaga. Despite the loss of Tim Grant (Souths), Kevin Kingston (Retired), Kierran Moseley,

Matt Robinson, Ryan Simpkins (all Gold Coast), Kevin Naiqama (Wests Tigers), Wes Naiqama (London Broncos) and Tom Humble (Townsville Blackhawks) among others, the emergence of the homegrown talent ensures coach Ivan Cleary still has plenty to depth to work with.

Starting with fullback, Matt Moylan will be looking to replicate his 2014 form that has many pundits suggesting he will be the new NSW fullback. Should he do so, waiting in the wings are Dallin WateneZelezniak and 2014 NSW Cup Man of the Match, Kieran Moss. Equally the Panthers have formidable strike-

NepeanNews NepeanNews

On Everyone’s Radar In 2015

power on the outside edges with Josh Mansour, Jamal Idris, Dean Whare and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak. Exciting talents Waqa Blake, George and Robert Jennings await their chance to debut in the NRL while the evergreen David Simmons needs just 6 tries to reach 100 NRL tries. The one burning question is whether Jamal Idris will make the switch to the forwards to accommodate one of these exciting talents? Time will tell.

The core of Penrith’s “spine”, the halves combination of Jamie Soward and Peter Wallace are well supported

by Isaac John and Will Smith while back rowers Tyrone Peachey and Bryce Cartwright are versatile enough

to provide any additional support required. Perhaps Cleary’s toughest decision lies with which back row options does he go with given that in addition to Peachey and Cartwright there is Elijah Taylor, Adam Docker, Lewis Brown, Isaah Yeo (equally at home in the centres) and Tupou Sopoaga to choose from. Such is the depth, Sika Manu and Ben MurdochMasila may need to compete for a front row position with the likes of Sam McKendry, Brent Kite, Jeremy Latimore, Nigel Plum, Sam Anderson and even potential NRL debutant, Junior Kangaroo prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard. James Segeyaro may have made the hooker role his

Goodluck Panthers for 2015

Ross Fowler

OAM, PENRITH CITY MAYOR

Wishing the Penrith Panthers the very best of luck for the 2015 season p: 4722 3066 m: 0419 738 484 Email: ross@rossfowler.com.au

own in 2014, but in 2015 Apisai Koroisau is champing at the bit to at least share game time with the Dally M Hooker of the Year.

Last year’s finals appearance under their belt brings high expectation in 2015, to the extent that anything less than a finals appearance would be seen as a failure. Those expectations could be tested in the early rounds given Penrith’s disruptive pre-season preparation for much of the playing group which could result in 2014’s inconsistent start being replicated in 2015. Watene-Zelezniak, Docker, Plum and Mansour are battling to be available for the mouth-watering Round 1 clash against the Bulldogs

while others such as Idris, Peachey and McKendry have had limited game time since returning from injury.

The Panthers’ tougher draw in 2015 sees them face 2014 top 4 teams Souths, Sydney and Manly twice in lieu of Cronulla, St George Illawarra and the New Zealand Warriors. Given that Penrith won just 5 of 10 games against Top 8 opponents in 2014, the Panthers will need to improve on that record to maintain hopes of a top 4 finish. However the return of Saturday night / Sunday afternoon home fixtures provides Penrith fans greater ability to help make the newly named Pepper Stadium the fortress it needs to be.

Penrith’s success in 2015 hinges on a kinder run with injuries and ability to negotiate a tough early – middle section of the draw. Achieving a minimum 9 and 7 win / loss record (or better) by the end of State of Origin will provide Penrith every opportunity to charge home for a Top 4 spot and carry momentum into the finals. Whilst finals footy is a different level altogether the journey this team took in 2014 and is about embark on again in 2015, could see the Year of the Goat, become another Year of the Panther.

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

21

EMMAUS CATHOLIC COLLEGE 22

OPEN NIGHT ON WEDNESDAY 11TH MARCH

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

CHOICE OF TWO TOURS: 1ST TOUR 4PM-6PM OR 2ND TOUR 6.30PM-8.30PM GENERAL INFORMATION 6PM-6.30PM (Enrolment Applications for 2016 will be available at that time)

CATHOLIC Headfirst into the New Year

TOURS OF THE COLLEGE WILL ALSO BE CONDUCTED ON THURSDAY 12TH MARCH AND FRIDAY 13TH MARCH BETWEEN 11AM AND 12NOON

Every aspect of the College meets the needs of students, giving them the best preparation for modern life in the 21st Century. We are committed to providing unique and enriching learning experiences for all students.

Students and Parents at Emmaus experience: • a College with strong traditional values and high expectations of all its students • a place where prayer and sacrament are valued and nourished • a place where life-enhancing relationships are characterised by respect and authenticity • a learning environment of challenge, discovery and innovation, where each student is expected to personally excel • an exciting transition year in Year 7 • a broad choice of courses in Years 9 – 12 • advanced technology enriching the learning environment with extensive vocational courses and university and TAFE linked courses in Years 10 - 12 • a wide variety of sports played at a representative level and cultural opportunities including Visual Arts, Digital Photography, Dance, Drama, Mock Trial and Music recitals • a highly qualified and committed teaching staff • a community where personal responsibility and justice are valued and expected • a peaceful and beautiful rural environment Emmaus Catholic College is a Catholic, dynamic, learning community where parents, staff and families “Walk with Jesus”

87-109 BAKERS LANE, KEMPS CREEK NSW 2178 For further details, application and prospectus, please contact Mrs Biermann or Mrs Schembri on 9670 4588 or visit www.emmaus.kempscreek.catholic.edu.au

S

TUDENTS at Emmaus Catholic College, Kemps Creek splashed into the new school year with enthusiasm and talent.

The first major sporting event for 2015 was the recent swimming carnival. The occasion is always a highlight in the students’ diaries. It is the first opportunity for Year 7 swimmers to meet and mingle with the more experienced. It is also the exciting challenge for College House Teams to establish superiority, individual swimmers make their mark and the entire College community enjoys the day out of class and gets into the swim.

“Students demonstrate so much passion during Carnival Day”, commented Mr Stein, Head of Sport.

“The cheering is so spontaneous, with participation in novelty

events, volleyball, wading pool water polo always excellent!” Mr Stein commended the many strong swimmers who enter the competitive events but at the same time indicating his wish that more swimmers take up the challenges in future.

The champion house, Jordan, had a great point score of 1018, followed by Tabor 932, Mamre 907 and Cana 871.

Selections will shortly be announced for the Diocesan team.

Students achieving a benchmark standard in events will be invited to attend the Diocesan Carnival on 24th March at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre.

“Staff and students had a great day”, concluded Mr Stein, “the sporting spirit was excellent and I congratulate all who participated or assisted.”

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

SCHOOL CATHOLIC SCHOOL WEEK WEEK Captivate program S

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

23

T JOSEPHS Kingswood encourages all students to “Learn without limits” through professional and supportive staff and integrated educational programs. Captivate is incorporated in learning at St Joseph’s, providing a unique and dynamic learning experience. Specifically , the Drama Literacy Program encourages students to develop and build a high standard of literacy skills through drama mediums. Whilst providing maximum student engagement, it gives rise to many creative and performing arts outcomes in schools.

In saying this it creates an avenue for students to become immersed in written language and being able to excel in literacy, using creative avenues.

Drama literacy teacher Tim Martin teaches the program to students from Kindergarten to Year 6 and is always amazed by how the students creatively conduct themselves in the class.

“The program has a real sense of educational play, where students are given permission to use their imagination and express their response in their own creative way in front of their peers,” Mr Martin said.

This in itself not only creates a comfortable environment for the students but also gives them an opportunity to learn from others and take away a memorable experience of the lesson. Teachers’ at St Joseph’s work collaboratively to integrate this program with their own lessons. The experiences created in Drama Literacy class are used to fuel specifically designed writing tasks, by doing so students are able to validate and express their opinions in writing from practical experiences.

Sunday 8th March

Parents and Students please join us for Mass and sausage sizzle at St Joseph’s Parish Church, 10am-12pm St Joseph’s Primary is a Catholic co-educational primary school with a passion for learning in a contemporary, creative environment.

The school has recently undergone extensive refurbishment of our buildings and grounds. Learning spaces are spacious and collaborative, providing facilities for both social and personal learning activities. Our grounds are well maintained and students are involved in the greening of outdoor spaces.

At St Joseph’s students will experience: • • •

ENROLLING NOW FOR 2016 At St Joseph’s we promote

“Learning without limits”

No student will be refused enrolment because of a family’s genuine inability to pay fees.

For more information please contact the school principal.

For enrolment enquiries or a personal school tour please contact Fran Jackson (Principal).

94 Joseph St, Kingswood P: 4732 3999

• • • • •

Religious Education that enriches their faith 21st century learning that supports students individual needs A diverse curriculum and extra curricular activities such as Voice of Youth, Creative and Performing Arts, Sport and Mathletics A Strings programme for all Year 3 & 4 students A band program for all year 5 and 6 students Learning supported by the latest technology Learn to swim programme Passionate and professional teaching staff An actively involved parent community

At St Joseph’s we provide a safe, caring, friendly environment in which students feel valued and grow in their relationship with God and each other.

We strive to provide our students with the best possible learning experiences in an inclusive environment based on our Catholic faith.

E: stjosephskwood@parra.catholic.edu.au W: www.stjosephskingswood.catholic.edu.au

CATHOLIC

24 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

City of Plenty – Education partnership

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VER the next 3 weeks, Caroline Chisholm College has been one of three local schools to be invited to be involved in an exciting community project in partnership with Penrith Regional Gallery. Students are working on stories for a blog that documents the development of the work as it progresses in photos, video and comments. The students in the project have been given assignments to research local agencies or initiatives such as Penrith Community Kitchen, Cana Farm, or Penrith City Council’s approaches to sustainability. They will also profile Sarah Goffman’ practice and investigate the work of other artists whose works deal with similar issues.

The students in the group are Year 10: Jasmine Altman, Phoebe Anderson, Chantelle Arancon, Roisin Cairney, Shumi Chauhan, Mikaylee Dawson, Amy DiCristoforo, Jessica Greniewicz, Chloe Godwin, Kyla Reynolds, Isabella Richardson, Skye Tranfa, Ashleigh Whitbread and Year 11: Kathleen Sta Ana, Brooke Vincent Project Overview Beginning in March, Penrith

Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest will host artist in residence, Sarah Goffman to construct a city made of donated non-perishable food and household consumables in the Main Gallery space. Visitors to the Gallery may watch artist Sarah Goffman in action as she builds this city. The installation – the size and speed at which it develops as a city, will provide a social commentary about the generosity of our community

and nation.

At the conclusion of the project, the city will be dismantled and the food distributed by Oz Harvest. Local project partner and one of our school projects, Penrith Community Kitchen will be one of the agencies, which will receive food from the project.

What can we do at Caroline Chisholm College From Ash Wednesday, we will be collecting goods for the project. We can

make a difference by bringing in nonperishable goods such as tinned goods, rice, pasta or household products like washing powder or shampoo. Students can put the goods in the boxes for their house on the COLA stage and each donation will get a house point for their house. So get involved and make a difference in our local community during Lent and Project Compassion. For more information: www.penrithregionalgallery.org

Caroline Chisholm College, Glenmore Park 2016 ENROLMENTS FOR GIRLS YEARS 7-12

OPEN NIGHT

Monday 9th March 2015 6pm to 8.30pm Activities on Open Night Include: • Display of students’ work • Opportunities to talk to current students & staff • Information Sessions: 6.30pm to 7.00pm ~ 7.30 to 8.00pm • Performances by students • Tours of College facilities Enrolment information will be available on this night.

Follow Us on:

Further information can be can found our website: Further information beonfound on our www.cccglenmorepark.nsw.edu.au website: www.cccglenmorepark.nsw.edu.au Enrolment packages bycontacting contacting College on 4737 5506 Enrolment packagescan can be be obtained obtained by thethe College on 4737 5506 Limited vacancies exist in most years | 90-98 The Lakes Drive Glenmore Park NSW 2745 90-98 The Lakes Drive, Glenmore Park, 2745

SCHOOL WEEK T. DOMINIC’S College has formed a proud tradition of fostering the growth of the young men of the greater Penrith area over its 56 year history, with many prominent figures in our community attributing their success to the time they spent at the College. However never has this success been as wide reaching as it is today. In the year 2015, St. Dominic’s continues the proud tradition of providing an educational experience that allows for all manners of students to succeed and achieve highly. Our holistic education program takes our students to the heights of their respective fields, whether it be in the performing arts, sport, academia, social justice or one of the many other co-curricula fields the College provides. Proof of this assertion can be seen in the many recent successes of our students.

Ravi Liyanaarachchi (Year 9) and Luke Riik (Year 8) are two of the Colleges budding music prodigies and have recently been selected to take part in the Penrith Youth String Program for 2015. Ravi who plays violin and Luke who plays viola have

been part of the College Band since they started at St. Dominic’s; they are also part of the Colleges String Ensemble. Selection for the Penrith Youth String Program is a great achievement for both boys, meaning they will be involved in rehearsals, workshops and performances with the Penrith Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

On the sporting field, St. Dominic’s last week continued its proud tradition winning all five divisions of the MCS Basketball competition. A feat to be proud of and something that very few schools can say they have achieved. A special mention must go to our A Grade Basketball team who has ensured

the senior trophy calls St. Dominic’s home for the tenth time out of the last fifteen competitions. However, our success is not limited to one sport and we would like to congratulate Andrew Hazard who has been selected to play in the NSWCCC Opens Cricket team.

Andrew should be applauded for being selected onto this very highly competitive team.

Academia is of the highest importance at St. Dominic’s and we endeavor to recognise the achievements of our students in this field. The College had the opportunity to celebrate its 2014 HSC High Achievers at an assembly on 20th February. The day was attended by 19 students who achieved 33 Band

6 results between them, 8 boys who achieved ATAR’s over 90 and our 2014 Dux Weivan Huang who achieved an ATAR of 99.30. This is an exceptional performance by these young men and the College is extremely proud of their efforts. Mention must also go to the rest of the Year 12, 2014 cohort who may not have edged over the Band 6 threshold, but still performed to an extremely high degree. With the start of the academic year for most Universities last week, there were many new Dommies faces taking their first steps in their tertiary education and commencing the next stage of their learning journey.

These successes are only a snapshot of the great work that is occurring at St. Dominic’s College and the numerous personal achievements of our students.

We invite the wider Community and in particular any parents who are considering high schools for their son’s future education to join the College at our Open Day on the 8th March and find out more about our many other high achieving students and how they can become part of this great community.

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

Educating the Leaders of Tomorrow S

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2015 COLLEGE OPEN DAY Sunday, March 8

SESSION ONE 10am - Information Session 10.30am - Guided Tours Commence

SESSION TWO 1pm - Information Session 1.30pm - Guided Tours Commence

St Dominic’s College invites you to join us for our Annual Open Day. Attendance at one of our Information Sessions is recommended.

ENROLMENTS FOR 2016 ARE NOW OPEN, expressions of interest for our 2017 waiting list are also welcome.

St Dominic’s College 54 - 94 Gascoigne Street (PO Box 156) Kingswood NSW 2747 ABN 12 838 505 432 Tel: 02 4731 1933 | Fax: 02 4721 0166 | Email: info@stdominics.nsw.edu.au | Web: www.stdominics.nsw.edu.au

Simon Tedeschi - Gershwin and Me IN 2015 The Joan celebrates 25 years of bringing the best of the performing arts to our region, and this year audiences will be treated to another magnificent series of world-class piano recitals.

The 2015 Richard Bonynge Piano Series take audiences on a journey through cultures and time, kicking off with Australian virtuoso Simon Tedeschi returning to The Joan to perform his exuberant homage to the great George Gershwin, in Gershwin and Me on 7 March at 8pm.

“Gershwin has in many ways been the musical accompaniment to my life.”- Tedeschi Simon Tedeschi is often described by respected critics and musical peers as “one of the finest artists in the world”. Tedeschi performed his first concert in the Sydney Opera House at age 9, is a regular guest on Spicks and Specks and The Drum and has been the subject of two Australian Story documentaries.

He played the hands of David Helfgott in the Oscar Award winning movie Shine and is one of the few young Australian classical artists to have been signed

by Sony.

From the rhythmic jostlings of a curious kid from Brooklyn to Gershwin’s premature death at 38, Tedeschi explores not only Gershwin the man but Gershwin the legend - his friends, his influences, his idiosyncrasies, his complexity and his groove.

The program will include Gershwin favourites including I Got Rhythm, Summertime, ’S Wonderful, The Man I Love, Rhapsody in Blue and more from composers from Gershwin’s world, including Rachmaninov, Debussy, Grainger and Fats Waller. “…as intoxicating as you could wish. The

audience was on a euphoric high… an inspired performance” - Radio New Zealand As well as offering an evening of brilliant music, each piano recital includes a post-show reception with complimentary wine, cheese and crackers and the opportunity to meet the artists.

Single tickets $35 adult $30 concession This show can also be purchased as part of the Richard Bonynge Piano Series for 2015.

Subscribe to all four concerts for just $132 (Adult)

or $116 (Concession) and save 20%. A subscriber prize pack is on offer for those who sign up for all four concerts before 7 March.

A four show ticket subscription includes: Simon Tedeschi 7 March Kanga and Rojas 16 May Piers Lane 18 July Six Grands 17 October To book call our Box Office on 4723-7600 or online at www.thejoan.com.au

27 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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T E R T A I N M E N T

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

SUDOKU: EASY

SOLUTION: 19th February

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

Shakespeare by the river THE Acting Factory, a theatre company from Penrith, is introducing a play that they say has never been performed in Australia before – Mucedorus.

Furthermore, there is some controversy about the authorship of this play, though it is attributed to William Shakespeare.

This play production takes a selfaware look at itself, setting the comedy against tragedy and vice versa, to explore the dichotomy between them. The punchline, however, is that comedy and tragedy are more similar than they first appear and at times it’s hard to tell the difference between them.

The play features comedic moments with violence and death, but then some tragic moments with wordplay and slapstick. This invites the audience to think about the intention of the moment as well as the events happening on the stage.

One reason why the Acting Factory is doing this show is to breathe life into a text that was almost lost in time. By reinterpreting and playing with the

21ST MAR 21ST MAR 21ST MAR 21ST MAR

text, they’ve made it interesting and accessible for a modern audience.

“Playing is a great thing that helps you learn, love life and share your stories, because even a story that is almost lost, like Mucedorus, can be revived,” said Director Mitchell Rist.

The production runs from 7 to 22 of March at Regatta Park, Emu Plains. The performances are at 7.30, as well as a 2pm on both 21st February and March. Entry is $20 .

Email mail@actingfactory.com for more details.

LAST STAND » COLD CHISEL SHOW

THUNDERSTRUCK » AC/DC SHOW

KICK » INXS SHOW

NO SECRETS » ANGELS SHOW

FREE ENTRY ◆ FROM 9PM

Y A D L L A E L B A L I AVA

JOKES

George Burns (January 20, 1896 – March 9, 1996), was an American comedian, actor and writer. He was one of the few entertainers whose career successfully spanned vaudeville, film, radio, and television. When Burns was 79, his career was resurrected as an amiable, beloved and unusually active old comedian in the 1975 film The Sunshine Boys, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He continued to work until shortly before his death, in 1996, at the age of 100.

1. Sincerity is everything. If you can fake that, you‛ve got it made.

2. I smoke 10 to 15 cigars a day, at my age I have to hold on to something.

3. Smartness runs in my family. When I went to school I was so smart my teacher was in my class for five years.

4. A good sermon should have a good beginning and a good ending, and they should be as close together as possible.

5. I can‛t understand why I flunked American history. When I was a kid there was so little of it.

6. Actually, it only takes one drink to get me loaded. Trouble is, I can‛t remember if it‛s the 13th or 14th.

7. Happiness is having a large, loving, caring close-knit family in another city.

8. Do you know what it means to come home at night to a woman who‛ll give you a little love, a little affection, a little tenderness? It means you‛re in the wrong house.

9. If you live to the age of a 100 you have it made because very few people die past the age of a 100.

10. It‛s hard for me to get used to these changing times. I can remember when the air was clean and sex was dirty.

11. Old age is when you resent the swimsuit issue of Sports Illustrated because there are fewer articles to read.

12. Too bad that all the people who know how to run the country are busy driving taxicabs and cutting hair.

Heavens Above with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Love. The Essential Ingredient.

“All You Need Is Love.” Simple and beautiful words, expressed in the song by John Lennon.

Without love, nothing flourishes or even happens.

There is no need to complicate things - if you want to have or make something happen, love it.

I am not only speaking of the love between a man and a woman. It is the love we can put into everything and anything we do.

(1) If you want it to work, love it!

(2) If you want it to happen, love it!

(3) Every meal you prepare (guys too). Do it with love!

Love is the energy that breathes life into everything.

Anything created without love, doesn’t last. It hangs around for a while, but soon crumbles.

“Love makes the world go ‘round” Let It make your world go ‘round!

Cheers and Joy! Your Mate Rossco

31 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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Authentic Irish venue, good food, and winner of multi Guinness awards for pouring “THE PERFECT PINT”

ENTERTAINMENT ALL DAY

9am - 1pm CAMERON MATHER 1.30pm - 5.30pm LENNY DUFF 6pm BLACKWATER

St PATRICK’s DAY

RAFFL E

1st Prize

$5000 2nd Prize $1000

Tickets $10 each - Drawn 8pm on the 17th March Winner notified by phone

ANNUAL ST PATRICK’S DAY CHARITY GOLF DAY FRIDAY 13TH MARCH Funds raised on the day will go to Nepean Family Room.

2 Man Ambrose Event, Tee Off at 7am (Shotgun start) - ‘Mystery Handicap’ Dunheved Golf Club Links Road, St Marys Prizes Galore, Raffles and other activities on the day. Tickets $80 each.

Includes greens fees, breakfast roll, gift bag, 2 course lunch and 2 beers at the Gaels Club.

Numbers are strictly limited - register and pay early to avoid disappointment.

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Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

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

THE letter written by Councillor Thain in last week’s edition was a Monty Python-like script where fact and fiction were mixed like a fruit salad. Firstly, Councillor Thain refers to one of the Mosques as a Community Centre whereas Penrith Council refused this title on the DA application and called it a “Place of Worship” .

Councillor Thain also referred to this Mosque as a place of worship during the two Council meetings. It appears that the good Councillor is not certain what it is!

Claiming that Federal and State police were not concerned as they did not advise council is bordering on the ridiculous, as is the statement that the applicants were being persecuted by ISIS. This attempt to convince the community of Council’s inability to refuse the building of the two Mosques by claiming that the State Government LEP laws were to blame is also incorrect. Camden Council refused the building of an Islamic school using these same LEP laws.

The Council decision was upheld in the Land And Environment Court.

Lastly, the commentary that unnamed persons behind the leaflet distribution should reveal their identities, address and contact details. Our names were revealed at the Community Forum.

Our contact details were on the leaflet we distributed, but our home addresses were not published due to the danger of violence and intimidation.

The Protest Penrith Action Group cannot afford commercial premises to display an address, unlike Councillor Thain using Council chambers and Council provided telephones.

Perhaps Councillor Thain should provide his home address on any future correspondence with the Nepean News.

Rick Putra, Media Spokesperson Protect Penrith Action Group Dear Editor, On reading the letter from Cr John Thain, I am in full support of his response to the critics regarding Council’s decision on the D.A. for a Hall for the Islamic Faith.

The Current L.E.P. is only five years old, an exceptionally important document for sensible, stable,

responsible development in the whole of NSW. Without going into a tirade of discussion on the merits and demerits of various other religious denominations in the L.G.A., it is refreshing to note that at least some of our elected councillors and, dare I include, State Government pollies are interested in standing by the provisions of the L.E.P. Wally Cox, Mulgoa I’D like to know why political candidates are able to get away with leaving trailers all over town advertising themselves, yet trailers advertising businesses around Penrith are not allowed? Either let everyone do it or let nobody.

K.Maxell, Penrith SUBJECT – BETTER CLASSROOMS DID I read correctly Prue Car admitted the failings and apathy of successive State Labor Governments for the period 2000 to 2011 with regard to improving facilities for schools in Cambridge Park, Whalan

and Werrington County?

The unbelievable audacity of her to blame the current Baird Government for Labor’s lack of interest and investment in improving education, roads, health and transport for the people of Western Sydney, For 16 years her Sussex Street mates had every chance to help us out but obviously couldn’t program their GPS to go further than the Anzac Bridge.

In the last four years the Baird Government has been reducing the need for demountables by funding an additional 694 permanent classrooms, and committed almost $3.2 billion to school infrastructure and maintenance.

The Baird Government plans to inject $1000 million through Rebuilding NSW into the education sector – a package that will deliver around 1150 new permanent classrooms.

The best Labor can come up with is $10 million a year.

Prue, you and Labor have no credibility on school infrastructure and maintenance.

Josh Langridge, Penrith

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Source of aid or support (8) 5 Discrimination against the elderly (6) 9 Threshold (8) 10 Daughterly (6) 12 Card game (9) 13 Blood vessels (5) 14 Past tense of “To be” (4) 16 Small dining room set (7) 19 Not himself (7) 21 Coral island (4) 24 Not daytime (5) 25 They import illegally (9) 27 Makes skin soft (6) 28 Language spoken in Tokyo (8) 29 Cease (6) 30 Compliant (8)

DOWN 1 A pungent edible root (6) 2 Bobbins (6) 3 Cause to overturn (5) 4 Cleft (7) 6 Complaint (9) 7 Start (8) 8 Syrup made from sugar cane (8) 11 Emasculate (4) 15 Instances of hard physical labor (9) 17 Roofed (8) 18 Warships (8) 20 Bother (4) 21 A plant sometimes used in pies (7) 22 Break away (6) 23 Express agreement (6) 26 Secretes a hormone (5)

solution 19/2/15

saturday 9th may from 8pm

F

First & Last Hotel

URTHER on the “First & Last Hotel”. William “Cuffy” Morris was a St Marys’ produce merchant and a staunch teetotaller and campaigner who lectured about the evil of drink from a small balcony above his shop on the corner of the Western Highway and Mamre Road (photo shows the balcony on the left). His shop just happened to be diagonally opposite to the “Strangers Home Hotel”. On the days when “Cuffy” was campaigning, the drinkers from the hotel would leave the bar and stand outside and raise their pint pots at every forceful expression from “Cuffy” and cheer, not so much for what he was saying, but in defiant ridicule. In June 1885 the license for the hotel was granted to William Roberts. In June 1886 “Japonica” was stating in the Nepean Times that an additional sitting room was being fixed (or rather hooked) onto Mr Roberts’ “First & Last Hotel” that made the building look like a muscovy duck with a bantam chicken under its wing. In the licensing court in December 1886 the transfer of William Roberts’ license of the hotel and the billiard license was granted to John Atkinson. In June 1887 in the Penrith Small Debts Court - John Gersbach (plaintiff) v William Roberts (defendant) John filed a claim that the sum of £10 for a commission on the sale of the “Strangers’ Home Hotel” for £620 was, that he had arranged with William for the sale of the hotel for £610 and he was to receive £10 commission. When offered, he agreed to find John a purchaser and telegraphed John Atkinson of Cootamundra. Atkinson came to look at the hotel and said he liked it very much and would, in a few days give an answer. Eventually the bargain was closed by Atkinson giving a cheque for £50 which however, through some informality was dishonoured. John Atkinson came afterwards and completed the sale at the higher price of £650. Several witnesses were called by John Gersbach and it was argued that Gersbach had no claim inasmuch that the first contract was broken through the dishonoured cheque and he had only one week to complete the sale. The case lasted for a considerable time and eventually it was found that the claim was for work done .in October and November of 1886 and John Gersbach lost his claim for the money.

In November 1888 the publican records confirm that the licence of the “Strangers Home Hotel” was transferred from John Atkinson to James Cott and was renewed in December 1889 and last renewed by James in June 1896. The hotel was a favourite with those workers in the wood trade and known as a “home away from home”. James was known to hold the bar spellbound while he recounted that just before a big heavyweight fight was held at the Sydney Stadium he had dreamed the winner and had apparently, during the dream, taken an active part himself because when he woke in the morning both fists were skinned as a result of punching the bedpost! After that he wouldn’t talk about dreams. The hotel held many social gatherings, where on those cold winter nights with the cosy parlour lit by the soft light of tallow candles and with the long beers and the big log fire and the merry party the songs sang so jolly to the strains of a concertina. In 1889 James signed the petition for the incorporation of St Marys to be under the name of “Municipal District of St Marys”. In 1892 a well known resident of the district called at the “First & Last Hotel” and mistakenly gave a £5 note instead of £1. Next morning he found out the error and sent in word to James who looked over his takings and found the note and rode out a distance of six miles to return it. The Nepean Times went on to report that St Marys can boast of at least one honest publican! In November of 1896 an article in that paper said that James, for many years licensee of the “Strangers’ Home Hotel” retired from business. His daughter has been under the doctors for some considerable

time and also his wife, so James found that he could not attend to his business for those reasons. During his stay as publican James made many friends. Another article mirrors this saying James who recently retired because of family illness was quiet, unostentatious, affable, prompt and liberal in business, always ready to serve a customer, to help a wanderer, or to oblige a friend were among the many tributes paid to ‘our Jim’ a pattern to the trade. James sold out to Mr George White, who has held licenses in Victoria and New Zealand. James seems to have gained the good will of the Licensing Bench at Penrith for when the transfer was granted, Mr J K Cleeve expressed a regret that they were losing Mr Cott as he had always kept his hotel in a proper manner and he only hoped that his successor would be equally as good. Adverts in the paper in 1897 said that George White, a gentleman who has previously held licenses in Melbourne and various parts of Victoria for many years announces that having taken over the business from James Cott and thoroughly renovated the place as he is preparing to cater for the public as they like. His table was first class and the stabling accommodation was up to the best style of hotels. Mr White was a supporter of football and cricket and he and Mrs White were prepared to supply dinners and banquets in a manner second to none in the district. According to the Nepean Times in June 1897, Mrs Donnelly was granted a license for the “Strangers Home Hotel” (these two names of the hotel were very confusing in a way that it makes one wonder that every time there was a new licensee they changed the names back and forth?). An advertisement in the paper in 1898 said that William A Moseley who returned to St Marys had taken over the licensee of the hotel. An amusing piece also in the paper in June 1898 said that a hen belonging to William persisted in laying her eggs in one of the beds at the hotel and had recently been turned out several times and all doors locked on her. She however got back in there all the same and broke any amount of glassware in doing so. This was on Tuesday and they had hen soup on Wednesday at the “Strangers Home Hotel” In July 1899 William had erected a new gasometer for the acetylene gas that would hold fully two days supply. Also in July William of the “First and Last Hotel”, in opening a bottle of Gaelic whisky found a £1 coupon. This is the third such prize that Mr Moseley has obtained since he took over the “First & Last”. When in his other hotel he got two Gaelic coupons and two Wolfe’s schnapps orders. (To be continued). Sources: The wonderful Nepean Times & NSW State Archives.

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

37 37 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

nepeanhistory nepean

38

finance and real estate matters

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

ECONOMIC UPDATE AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT FOR YOU With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

BEFORE deciding to buy any property, we need to consider our personal financial situation very carefully. Then we also consider our own confidence in moving forward and making a commitment. We should also consider the state of the local, state, federal and world’s economy as they all have some effect on the returns and growth our properties may receive.

The following are the highlights from Westpac’s recent economic update which I think are relevant to your property purchasing decisionsINTEREST RATES Westpac (and others) are expecting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to make another cut of 0.25 per cent in their March meeting. This will reduce our cash rate to 2.0 per cent. This rate is then expected to remain at this level until March 2016 when it is expected to rise. Any reduction is likely to

counter more negative confidence and rising unemployment.

CONSUMER AND BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Both consumers and business’s confidence about the short term future is still in negative territory and is why the RBA will consider reducing the cash rate again very soon. Consumer spending is flat and the Christmas spending was below the expected results. This reduced spending obviously effects the retailers which many are struggling. Domestic consumer demand is falling in all states except NSW which has high consumer demand.

UNEMPLOYMENT Peoples’ fears of losing their job is increasing and is extreme in some parts of the Australia. The unemployment rate has been rising and looks like continuing to rise.

WAGES AND INFLATION Wages growth and inflation have both been low. If people worry about keeping their incomes and overtime etc. they never commit to buying a

property off course. Wages in WA have been falling due to the decline in the mining industry there. Other mining areas are also expected to decline. This low growth allows the RBA to make further reductions to the cash rate when required to stimulate confidence and the economy.

NOW FOR THE BETTER NEWSHOUSING AFFORDABILITY The national affordability is at the 35 year average due to the historical low interest rates. In NSW between 2002 and 2014, incomes have risen in line with the average property values.

In Sydney, the real estate market isn’t rising as fast as it was last year. This helps people pay a more reasonable price. An overheated market is usually bad news for property owners eventually when the “bubble bursts”.

Brisbane rental yields (based on a 2 bedroom flat) are higher than the returns from 1 year Term Deposits and the average return from the top 200 companies on ASX. GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

GDP in Australia is expected to rise over 2015 and 2016 and will be helped by the low exchange rate with the US Dollar. This means more company profits, who pay higher taxes, pay more wages to more people who also pay more income taxes etc.

This all increases the revenue to the governments.

World GDP is also expected to rise to 2016, back to the long term average.

In Summary, most of the country is experiencing difficult times except Sydney and to a lesser extent, the rest of NSW. Over the next year or two, the national economy is expected to rebound slightly back to more normal levels, albeit on the back on very low interest rates. If you have confidence in your income and good saving or equity, you should be considering using these to buy a good first home or investment property and grow your asset base.

This information is of a general nature and everyone needs to take into consideration their own circumstances and goals.

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42

sport

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER

MY THREE PLAYERS TO WATCH IN 2015

WELL it is nearly that time of the year when trees lose their leaves, one-eyed footy fans lose their senses and of course the start of a new season for the Greatest Game of All. Here are my three players to watch in season 2015.

Shaun Johnson (Warriors): The mercurial playmaker was voted best international player last year picking up the prestigious Golden Boot award.

His uncanny knack of making something productive appear out of nothing, coupled with his blistering speed and step make him a definite player to watch this season.

Matt Moylan (Penrith): In two short seasons the Panthers fullback appears ready to take over where Jarryd Hayne left off by becoming NSW’s fullback come this Origin series.

In the recent All Stars game he was a stand-out in a beaten team and his sleight of hand and non-stop involvement not only make him a player to watch but his team will benefit profoundly.

Jason Taumalolo (Cowboys): The North Queensland Cowboys celebrate 20 years in the NRL this season, and what better way to mark the accolade then to win a competition.

But to do so their ‘Incredible Hulk’ back rower Jason Taumalolo must feature prominently.

The young dynamo has the footballing world at his feet, already fielding offers from French Rugby. Let’s hope he stays put in the code he has wrecked carnage in and isn’t tempted by the 15 man-a-side code.

NOW here are the teams which I figure will finish in the top-eight – Rabbitohs, Bulldogs, Cowboys, Panthers, Roosters, Sharks, Eagles, Warriors.

And I’m tipping the Bulldogs and the Panthers to be there on the grand-final day!

The Bulldogs now have a double-pronged twin attack in the Morris brothers – a scary assignment for any team trying to defend against them.

They also have the current NSW halves and a forward pack to die for.

Their coach Des Hasler is also another vital cog to their success. But unfortunately, like last year, they will be defeated in the last game of the year by the mighty Panthers.

Being an ex-Panther player, am I biased? Bloody oath I am!

But last season just as they were looking like being a real premiership threat major injury struck. And it struck marquee players.

This year they surely can’t be as unlucky with the ‘injury stick’?

Anyway if you don’t agree with me that Penrith will win the comp check out the Chinese horoscope.

Once you do see when the Year of the Goat appeared - see, told ya!

See you at the game!

I DON’T often speak of my brother in law in this column in fact I don’t think I have.

But this week is different.

For those of you good folk who are not aware my bro in law in Greg ‘Brandy’ Alexander.

He has been not only a best mate for the past 30 years but a brother.

He celebrates his birthday this week so last weekend his wife Tan put on a ‘shindig’ for him.

A fantastic night with fantastic people!

In attendance (how’s this for a backline) Brandy of course, Johnny Gibbs, Brad Fittler, Matty Johns, Craig Gower, and Ivan Cleary.

Not only great footy players in their time but also close mates of Panthers’ best-ever player.

I mention the above names and I could list another dozen, the point is that everybody who has met Brandy loves him.

He is the world’s most genuine bloke and I’ve never heard a bad word about him from any of his playing day opponents.

Basically all this piece on Brandy is an extra-long “happy birthday brother” card.

Well so be it!

I’m proud to call Brandy my brother in law, even prouder to call him my mate.

Happy birthday Brandman!!!

A REMINDER that on March 20, I’ll be linking with Matty Johns to speak at a sports luncheon at the Pioneer Tavern.

Mark Warren, the great Rabs’ chip off the old block son, will be MC and the hilarious Brenden Montanner will entertain us with his fabulous comical magician show.

Fifteen bucks from each ticket sold on the day will go the thegreatwalkfoundation which has been helping out local charities, including the kids ward at Nepean hospital, for the past seven years.

As I mentioned in my last column, the luncheon will be the ‘uncut’ version in which “everything goes”.

If you are keen to get along to it, give Iris at the Pioneer Tavern a buzz on 4736 4466.

But a word of warning, this luncheon is definitely not for the easily offended.

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sport

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

NRL betting

Panthers welcome Sea Eagles

POOR old St George Illawarra – while every other National Rugby League team in the competition plays at a venue named after the latest stadium sponsor, the Dragons will open the new season against Storm on Monday at Kogarah’s Jubilee Oval.

Jubilee Oval! What is this game coming to?

Just have a gander at where all the other home games are being played this weekend.

Now can any of you quickly tell me which of the following stadiums is where?

Pepper Stadium? Pirtek Stadium?

Hunter Stadium, Suncorp (easy enough), 1300Smiles Stadium, Cbus Stadium and Remondis Stadium.

Enough already!

Let’s have a look at the betting for this opening round in which the Panthers Penrith host the Bulldogs at the newly named Peppers Stadium on Sunday.

Sportsbet has posted the Panthers at $1.95 and the visitors as $1.85 favourites. No doubt Panthers fans will be stepping in to shorten those odds over coming days.

PENRITH’S two Waratah Championship League (WCL) teams are back in action for 2015 but early results don’t provide a true indication of either team’s chances of lifting a premiership flag.

The women’s team has had one game for a loss against the Bankstown Bruins in round one but welcome back Sydney Uni Flames WNBL point-guard Tahlia Tupaea, now her commitments with the Flames has ended.

Tupaea will still possibly miss other games, should she win selection in the Australian under 19 Women’s team but her presence at point guard will be a key to Penrith’s success this season.

The Penrith men have split their results, falling to the Bruins in round one before recovering for a strong win over the Maitland Mustangs in their second outing for the new season.

That win coincided with the return of Sydney Kings Development Player Ben Kearins, who is in great form after a season in the NBL competition.

Another of the Kings Development Players (Madol Chol) is also due back shortly, whilst head coach, John Hennessy, has been speaking to promising Sudanese youngster Laat Gak about his potential future in the

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The Penrith women are also back in action this Sunday, hosting the Sea Eagles women.

Game times should be checked with the Penrith Basketball Association.

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BARRIER RISE

Locals shine at State Indoors THE Nepean Hockey Association entered two teams in to the State Masters Indoor tournament at Niagra Park up on the Central Coast.

Forty teams participated from all over the State in 4 divisions and Nepean Hockey Association had one team in division 1 and another in division 2.

Allocation of teams to divisions saw the second team entered higher than perhaps their strength indicated.

Not to be deterred by their hard task, the ladies managed to hold their spot in division 2 and finished winning the most important game to evade relegation.

Struggling in past years, the strength in the NHA ladies division 1 team this year was boosted by the addition of first time Masters field players Michelle Ward, Kate Wright and Chantal Knowles who turned their hand to indoor hockey for the first time.

Kate and Chantal both played at the Australian Masters tournament in Darwin this year in field hockey.

The team commenced on fire and all augured well but unfortunately a loss in their second game and one more defeat saw them playing off for 4th and 5th.

They were not going to lose that all important match!

Margaret Kristaly performed terrifically in goal for the division 1 team.

Up there to support her was her daughter Mel Brewin who recently returned from

Nepean News

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.

ARYA: Juvenile filly by gun sire, Exceed And Excel. Bjorn Baker appears to have a smart one here.

DIAMOND OASIS: Given a real hunt along to win a trial recently. Shouldcome to hand quickly for Joe Pride.

FURNACES: One of a number of prime Golden Slipper contenders for John O’Shea. Soft trial winner against smart foes.

LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER: From the Hawkes Racing operation at Rosehill. Beautifully bred and trials with promise.

NAJOOM: Big, powerful Gai Waterhouse-trained colt by Northern Meteor. Sent along when three lengths trial winner at Randwick.

SURFER: Not overly serious when second in a Randwick heat. From the strong Anthony Cummings establishment.

TERRAVISTA: Flying at the moment if his recent Warwick Farm trial is any guide.

VA PENSIERO: Jason Coyle’s highly promising youngster steamed home with flair when second in a trial. Classy!

Margaret Kristaly and her equally talented daughter, Mel Brewin.

Canberra where she coached the NSW State under 14 boys indoor team to a gold medal.

Mel is also an Indoor representative player and was four years a state under 21 rep before moving into the seniors.

The NHA ladies who ventured up to Niagra Park were: Lyn Collee, Chantal Knowles, Kate Wright, Nicole Ann Cooper Mckinnon, Jodi Parnham, Shayne Cladingboel, Linda Viles, Michelle Ward, Gail Crosby, Jodi Hansen, Mardi Mantell, Lesley Olsen, Jennifer O’Toole, Tracey Prain, Janine van Galen, Fiona Brown, Kimmy Horwood ,Elise Sullivan (Coach Div 1) ,Alyson Andrew Redding, (Coach Div 2)

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45 Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

sport

46

sport

Nepean News 5 March 2015 Issue 144

ON THE MAT FINE weather awaited the players at Penrith Bowling Club last Sunday for the 2015 Nepean District State Singles finals.

The first semi-final was between Austral bowlers Mick Anderson and defending champion Trent Whittingham.

Mick started very strongly with a 3 on the first end. Mick scored again on 5 of the next 6 ends to lead 12 to 1 after 7 ends. Trent has a reputation of starting slow but on the 8th end he fired up.

He scored on the next 7 ends in a row to trail 11 to 12 after 14 ends. The scores remained close being locked together at 14 all, 18 all, 21 all and 22all after 29 ends.

Trent scored 9 shots to 2 over the next 6 ends to win the match 31 to 24.

The second semi-final was between Chris Hainey from Blacktown Workers and Matt LovettJeans from Wallacia.

Matt got away to a good start to lead 8 to 3 after 6 ends. Both players traded shots over the next 6 ends with Chris getting the better of Matt winning 7 shots to 4 to trail 10 to 12.

Matt scored on the next 3 ends to lead 16 to 10. Chris found some form

With Col Crossingham

The players were greeted by very hot conditions when they got on the green to play the final.

This was to be a repeat of the final in 2014 between Trent and Matt, however neither of the players were playing for the same clubs.

Trent moved to Austral and Matt moved to Wallacia.

In the early stages shots went end for end with Trent leading 4 to 3 after 5 ends. The match remained close over the next 8 ends with Trent leading 11 to 8 after 13 ends.

Trent scored a maximum 4 on the 14th end to lead 15 to 8 and started to dominate the match from there on, running out the winner 31 to 24.

Singles victor, Austral’s Trent Whittingham.

to win the next 6 ends to take the lead 21 to 16. Matt scored on 6 of the next 7 ends to take the lead back by the narrowest of margins 24 to 23.

Scores were then tied at 24-all, 25-all, 28 -all and 29-all before Matt scored 2 shots on the 36th end to win the match 31 to 29.

UNFORTUNATELY one of the 2015 ND State President’s Reserve Singles Championships semi-finalists had to forfeit due to having a heart attack and ending up in intensive care at Hawkesbury Hospital.

The other semi-final was between Michael Cochrane from Kingswood and Michael (Mick) Stanbury from Lawson.

Michael was fairly dominant in the early stages of the match winning 9 of the first 15 ends to lead by 15 to 7.

Mick found some form to win 7 of the next 12 ends to draw within 2 shots of the lead 18 to 20.

On the 36th end Mick scored a maximum 4 to again draw within 2 shots of the lead, Michael scored on 3 of the last 4 ends to take the match 31 to 28.

The final between Milton Taylor and Mick got under way under oppressively hot conditions.

Michael scored a maximum 4 on the 2nd end to lead 5 to 0. Michael won 7 of the next 10 ends to lead 16 to 8 after 13 end. Milton fought hard to stay in the game but Michael’s experience was showing through.

Michael dominated the rest of the match and took the title 31 to 23.

IN semi-final action in the ND Senior Singles, Ron Pittaway beat Bob Taylor 31-17 and Chris Tindall tossed Peter Macqueen 31-17.

Ron got away to good start in the final, leading 14 to 7 after 13 ends.

Chris came good in the middle stages to lead 21 to 20 after 23 ends.

The scores were tied at 22-all, 25all, 27-all and 28-allbut then Chris scored on 2 of the last 3 ends to take the match and the title 31 to 29.

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

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Thursday, 5 March 2015

sport

HARPO’S MARKS

R RECEIVED a l letter from one of o readers, a very our articulate lady, who criticised a piece in my previous column in which I bagged what I call the Beanie Brigade.

This is part of what this obviously passionate Penrith Panthers supporter wrote.

“I am a 54 year old lady and have been going to Rugby League games all my life – as have my husband and my two boys (now in their 20s).

“In all of that time we have never once experienced any negative behaviour. I concede that there are some people in the world who tend to attract that kind of problem – but generally speaking, crowd issues are not a Rugby League problem.

“The ‘Beanie Brigade’ as Greg stereotypically defines them, are rarely in attendance at the cricket or indeed at the rugby league.

“Greg has broadsided the 10000 plus members of the Penrith Panthers Football Club, along with everyone in the enormous Penrith junior base of the sport of Rugby League and their parents and the countless other fans of

the Greatest Game of All. “Perhaps he should remove his beanie and offer up an apology?”

I am flabbergasted that she has not encountered a few imbeciles at all the matches she has attended down the years.

Never been embarrassed by the behaviour of fellow fans at the footy?

People who just cannot appreciate the skills of all players out on the paddock?

Surely, surely she has seen these people.

Yes, they are in the minority but you only need a small handful of wombats to make a day at the footy (all four codes), cricket, tennis or tiddlywinks to ruin the occasion.

And I did not disparage those people the lady mentioned in her correspondence.

But I will give $1000 to the Unknown Soldier’s Mother if there is anyone else out there who has not encountered Beanie Brigade folk at sporting venues.

I’M joining Mark Geyer, Royce Simmons and Nigel Plum at Tina Andersen’s swank Illusions Cocktail

Lounge and Restaurant in Windsor tonight (Thursday) to celebrate the start of the 2015 rugby league season.

You’ll recognise the four of us –I’m the Brad Pitt lookalike, MG’s the tall one, Royce is the beach ball-with-ears and Nigel will of course be wearing his beloved head guard!

Nigel and that head guard! Aaah, the mind boggles as to what he gets up to with it!

We’ll be wining and dining and watching the first game of the new season on the big screen – the Rabbitohs and the Broncos.

The boys will be there from 6pm until the end of the match and will love nothing better than having a chat with any of you who turn up for what will be a terrific night of footy and friendship.

“Choke” is just $50 for which you receive two drinks – beer, wine or cocktails - and tucker throughout the evening.

HIGH MARKS: Yes, it truly is the Greatest Game of All and its baaaack!

LOW MARKS: Highly paid rugby league players who just can’t help themselves by wanting more moolah illegally.