Nepeannews 6august2015

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ISSUE 155

LEGEND OF THE NEPEAN: P12-13 | HISTORY: P18 | CROSSWORD: P22 | MG: P28

Kids like Max Stuart (pictured) think it is great that Penrith Panthers have raised over $50,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Nepean Family Room.

Full story on page 7

THANKS PANTHERS!

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THE Penrith Homeless Hub will be held on Wednesday 12 August from 9.00am – 11.00am at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.

The Hub is part of ‘National Homelessness Prevention Week’ which aims to raise community awareness and understanding of homelessness.

People facing homelessness are among the most vulnerable, marginalised and disadvantaged in the community. Individuals and families face homelessness for a diverse range of reasons including poverty, family breakdown, domestic and family violence, mental health issues, drug and alcohol issues.

Homelessness Hubs are a partnership of organisations aiming to connect people experiencing homelessness in the Penrith area with the support they need to connect with essential services.

A collaboration of organisations have joined together to offer these services including the Department of Human Services, Housing Services, Accommodation Services, Health Services, Charities and Community Services.

Council plays a lead role with community partners to coordinate the Penrith Homeless Hub which will provide assistance

MOB: 0455 357 210 | PH: 8678 6691

to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing homelessness, sleeping rough, couch surfing or know someone who is, then why not come along or bring them along and have a free BBQ provided by Christ Mission Possible. A wide range of local services will be available - all in the one location – as well as free personal care packs, clothing, food, health information and lots more.

For further information contact Christ Mission Possible on 4704 8809.

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Homeless hub

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Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 12/82 Victoria St Werrington Mail: PO Box 4001 Werrington NSW 2747 londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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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4 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

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by Kerrie Davies RARELY do I come across things that make my blood boil, but boil it did last week when I read about Cecil the lion from Zimbabwe.

A dentist from Minnesota, USA has been named and shamed for paying to have the GPS-collared lion lured out of his enclosure and killing him. Actually let me rephrase “killing him.” This despicable creature lured him out, shot him with a bow and arrow, stalked the wounded lion for some 40 hours before he shot, skinned and beheaded him and posed for his “trophy” photos.

He has since been bombarded by animal rights activists and the general public to the point of having to temporarily close down his dental practice.

Boo hoo. The hunter is now the hunted.

I will never be able to understand how hunting down an animal and looking it in the eye before planting a bullet through its head is a “sport” that provides enjoyment.

Personally, I’d find it hard to befriend any person who rated this level of cruelty as a hobby. It makes me feel ashamed of my species.

Cecil’s killer said in a statement that he believes he was acting lawfully, and has said nothing about the cruelty of the act itself.

Well, Mr lion-killer dentist, I understand that you were just “pursuing an activity that you love” when you stalked, killed and beheaded Cecil. Pictured here is your next dental patient waiting for you with mouth opened in your surgery. We’ll lock the door behind you and check in after 40 hours and see how you fared.

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

New hope for pets with Epilepsy

Nepean

Veterinary REPORT with Dr Antony Karolis and the team at WellPet Vets phone 1300 WELLPET Senior Veterinarian and CEO WellPets Vets Mountains, Nepean and St Clair

THIS weeks article is about Sybil, a young beagle, who came into Nepean Animal Hospital having multiple seizures. Seizures can be scary to see, they can happen suddenly and often without warning. So what is a seizure?

A seizure, also called a convulsion or fit, is a temporary disturbance of normal brain electrical function resulting in uncontrolled muscle activity. Seizure signs in pets can range in severity from mild to severe.

Mild seizure activity may include subtle unresponsiveness and your pet may even look as if they are simply staring into space. Severe seizure activity may include a complete loss of control of their body. They may lose all consciousness, thrash their legs and body uncontrollably, froth at the mouth, loose control of their bowels, and sometimes their eyes may roll back.

Sybil’s seizures were severe and, if left untreated, could cause brain damage or death. Seizures are one of the most frequently reported neurological conditions in dogs. The

most common cause of seizures in a dog is idiopathic epilepsy.

Other causes of seizures in dogs include ingestion of toxic substances, liver disease, kidney disease, brain tumours, and trauma.

It’s important that we determine why a dog is having seizures. The first step is a thorough physical examination and blood tests to check for liver or kidney disease and evidence of toxic substances. Sybil’s blood tests showed that her organs were healthy. Initially, despite anti-seizure mediation, she continued to have seizures every few hours. In some patients an MRI is required to find the cause of the seizures, for example when a brain tumour is involved.

There are many different medications that are available to control epilepsy most require lifelong treatment. The most commonly used medication is phenobarbitone.

Although phenobarbitone is effective, it can cause changes to the liver and therefore requires regular blood tests to ensure the patients liver is functioning

ok and that the medication is at the correct concentration in the blood.

The good news is that there is a new drug available to treat epilepsy.

It’s called Pexion and it has had great success in controlling seizures in Europe. Pexion does not cause the changes to the liver seen with phenobarbitone , and therefore requires fewer blood tests to ensure its safety. It has just arrived in Australia.

Sybil was our first patient to receive the new drug and she has responded really well. After 48 hours of medication, her seizures almost stopped, and the few seizures she did have were less severe. Within one week she had no further seizures. Sybil is back at home and hopefully will live a seizure free life. Good luck Sybil!

If your pet has a seizure at home, remain calm, move anything that could injure your pet away, and if possible minimize light and noise. Contact your vet immediately. WellPet vets are onsite at Nepean Animal Hospital 24/7 so keep our number handy!

1300WELLPET.

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0414 235 450 Stuart Ayres Wollemi College takes debating seriously, with particularly substantial and successful representation given the amount of students enrolled in the college compared to larger schools. Photo: Tom Carey

By Garion Thain

TWO Wollemi College debating teams, from year groups 7 and 12, made the semi-final at last month’s Catholic Secondary Schools Debating Competition (CSDA), an achievement the College holds in high esteem due to the fact that most other schools partaking in the competition have much more students enrolled.

Wollemi College is an independent boy’s college based in Werrington for students in years 3-12. The college has less than 300 pupils.

This year reaching the semi-finals holds particular merit for the Director of Studies Brett Wright and his year 12 boys, who are leaving behind a legacy of public speaking finesse. In year 9 they won the competition outright.

“The worst they’ve ever done is finish in the quarter finals,” Mr Wright proudly said.

The onus is now on the younger teams to help

carry on the legacy the graduating team is leaving to them. The year 7 team’s strong performance in this year’s competition however seems to indicate the college has nothing to worry about, matching the senior team’s semi-final round finish.

The year 12 team includes the school’s Captain and Vice-Captain in its ranks and they happily sang the activities’ praises, knowing this was their final year in the competition and that the juniors would soon take their place.

“It was definitely the best extra-curricular activity I did through school,” said Captain Jeremy Blades.

“It was good to just stand up year after year, bond with the team and the staff and be given that opportunity to express my opinions,” Mark Pirotta said.

Mr White said that he spent ten years at other schools but his experience at Wollemi has been the most rewarding, noting his pride for the boys in all teams.

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Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Passing of the Guard

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Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Seniors week grants THE Seniors Week Grant Program provides funding to not-for-profit community groups, charities, public companies and local Government bodies to create activities to celebrate NSW Seniors Week, which will be held from Friday, 1 April to Sunday, 10 April 2016.

“NSW Seniors Week is a time when we recognise and celebrate our seniors and the great contributions they make to our community,” Minister Ajaka said.

Mulgoa MP, Tanya Davies is encouraging local organisations to apply for funding under the NSW Seniors Week Grants Program.

“Seniors make a tremendous contribution to our community through volunteering, mentoring and other activities, and Seniors Week is a great opportunity to recognise the outstanding work they do,” Tanya Davies said.

The NSW Government has allocated $200,000 for the 2016 NSW Seniors Week Grants program.

There are two funding categories available in 2016: 1. Grants of up to $1,000 to deliver local events or activities in their communities, and 2. Grants from $1,001 to $5,000 for larger events which focus on this year’s theme.

Applications for the 2016 NSW Seniors Week grants program open on Monday, 27 July 2015 and close at 5.00pm on Friday, 4 September 2015. Applications are to be submitted online at www.nswseniorsweek.com. au.

Annual Student Exchange

(Far left Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM with the visiting students from Fujieda and Penrith Councillor Jackie Greenow OAM).

FIVE Students from Fujieda and four students from Penrith attended the Student Welcome and Afternoon tea with Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM on Monday 27 July.

The purpose of the tea was for Mayor Ross Fowler OAM to welcome the students from Fujieda to Penrith.

“I hope your journey was comfortable and that you’ll quickly settle in with your host families,” said Cr Fowler OAM. “I’d like to thank the members of the Penrith International Friendship Committee for making this exchange possible.”

Guests were also presented with small souvenirs of their visit to Penrith.

Organised by Penrith City Council and the Penrith International Friendship Committee, the annual exchange program gives local high school

students the opportunity of a lifetime to experience a different culture.

The annual exchange program has been running for 28 years and has had over 230 high school students participate. Students from Fujieda stay with local families in Penrith and experience life in Australian for three weeks.

In September, Penrith students will visit Fujieda to stay with their host brother/sister and their families and learn about the Japanese way of life.

The program has given many local Penrith students the opportunity to experience a different lifestyle and culture and for many has provided a life changing experience and lifelong friendships.

For more information on the student exchange program contact Council’s Partnerships & Events Officer Kate Hardman on 4732 7736.

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By Kerrie Davies

THE Penrith Panthers have put many smiles on faces, raising over $50,000 for Ronald McDonald House Nepean Family Room.

The funds were raised by donating $10 from every adult ticket and $5 from every child ticket sold at a special game last month.

As a parent its hard to imagine anything more devastating than a child born or diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness.

Trying to cope with a very sick

baby would be worrying enough in itself, but imagine the associated challenges, such as being close at hand at all times and trying to keep a stable structure for your other children.

The Family Room at Nepean Hospital provides a comfortable haven within the hospital for local families with children undergoing medical treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Ian and Kathryn Garton, who own seven local McDonalds stores were very passionate in their efforts to bring the Family Room at Nepean dream to fruition and are thrilled with

the donation.

“It shows great leadership and social initiative for Penrith Panthers Football Club to give back to their community so willingly,” Kathryn said.

“Families who use the room are extremely grateful to Panthers for thinking of their needs during unimaginable times.”

Gorgeous little Max Stuart, who features on our front page, entered the world six weeks early, a tiny 1400 grams and was diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

Either situation would mean a worrying time for any parent, so the

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Panthers’ mammoth donation to help our sick kids

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combination presented a frightening and challenging time for Max’s mum, Natalie.

“Max had to spend his first weeks in Neonatal ICU and I was only kept in hospital for the usual three days when I was discharged,” Natalie said.

“Without the support from Ronald McDonald house I would have had to spend many hours driving to and from our home and the hospital, and couldn’t have offered my son the love and attention that he so desperately needed in his first weeks.

“Their facilities are fantastic and really is a little home away from home,” Natalie said.

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Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Young advisors sought NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Affairs & Homelessness, Tanya Davies MP has called for local young people to nominate for the 2015 NSW Youth Advisory Council (YAC).

Council members come from all over the state and are broadly representative of the diversity of young people living in NSW in terms of gender, Aboriginality, and cultural and linguistic background.

Tanya Davies said that the Youth Advisory Council is one of the most effective ways for young people to be involved in Government decision making.

“Their unique insights, views and advice assists in the development of policies and programs affecting young people,” said Tanya Davies.

“The Youth Advisory Council makes an important and valuable contribution to the NSW Government’s work and the way we deliver services for young people in NSW.” Visit www.acyp.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 9286 7231.

Applications close at 5:00pm Monday 31st of August 2015.

Boost for seniors’ housing SOCIAL housing for seniors in Western Sydney is getting a boost with 27 new homes in Smithfield and 15 new homes in Penrith, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Housing Tanya Davies has announced.

“Sydney’s ageing population is projected to increase over the next thirty years which is why the NSW Government is taking action now to build a better future with enough housing,” Mrs Davies said.

“We want to see older people stay healthy and independent as long as possible in safe and secure homes.”

The $13 million the Government is investing in these two modern, purpose-built developments – which are scheduled to be completed by mid next year – comes from the sale of heritage social housing in Millers Point.

The projected proceeds from Millers Point property sales, expected to be about $500 million, is being reinvested into some 1500 new social housing dwellings, allowing more people on the waiting list to be housed faster.

Sixteen two-bedroom units and 11 one-bedroom units are being built at Smithfield while the Penrith housing development will see 10 two-bedroom units and five one-bedroom units

Tanya Davies MP, Member for Mulgoa and Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Affairs & Homelessness Mr Ronnie Beaini, Director of Academy – Construction company building the new homes.

constructed.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres welcomed boost saying both developments are specifically designed with senior citizens in mind with adaptable kitchens and wheel chair accessible bathrooms.

“It’s great to see Western Sydney

benefitting from the redistribution of housing from Millers Point with the commencement of these projects in Penrith and Smithfield,” Mr Ayres said.

To date, 21 Millers Point properties have been sold, generating $46.6 million to fund social housing.

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New democracy in Penrith

By Garion Thain

PENRITH City Council is about to undertake a new move in deliberative democracy with the formation of a Community Panel, comprising of 35 everyday people from the Penrith LGA. Residents who accept the invitation to take part in the panel will be provided with detailed information to analyse and make recommendations to council on their assets and services.

The operation is spearheaded by the newDemocracy Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation who specialise in citizen engagement, and have formulated similar panels in other councils and states.

The new campaign will begin in September, when the panel members (who have yet to be formally selected) will meet for the first time in their first meeting of several that will take place until the end of the year, the meetings being an all-day affair, from 9:30 until 4:30. newDemocracy Executive director Iain Walker and Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler met with the media at Penrith Council last Tuesday to give a formal preview of what the Community Panel will entail.

“We’re giving [council] a ‘problem,’ – an open discussion,” said Mr Walker.

“There’s the trade-off mindset, the community panel has to be complimentary to the decision elected representatives have to make,” he elaborated.

Mr Walker cited a similar exercise in Canada Bay as an example of the surprise effectiveness

A preview for The Penrith Community Panel has revealed the panel of everyday residents will begin meeting on September 5th.

a community oriented panel can have for elected councillors and the broader community alike.

At Canada Bay, the community panel observed council’s deficit in depth over their meetings and deliberated on suggestions on how to save money.

One money-saving idea that the panel approved suggested council could mow public lawns every three weeks rather than two – a proposition none of the councillors in Canada Bay could say they had considered themselves.

“It’s about balancing,” explained Mr Walker.

“If you’re right, make your case to 34 other people. If 34 people say ‘I don’t want to spend money on that,’ that’s a message in itself.”

Mr Walker said one of the most common observations to come from these panels is that “this is harder than it looks.”

“We give people a blank sheet,” he said.

“If you had 5 minutes with the mayor and council,

what would you say?”

Expert speakers are present at most meetings to inform the panel about various assorted topics relevant to the discussions they may be having.

Cr Fowler described the exercise as a way of improving council’s relationship with the community, first and foremost.

“We thought we’d like to take community consultation to another level,” Cr Fowler said.

“Whatever information [the panel] wants will be provided.”

Cr Fowler said his measure of success at the end of this exercise would be a standard, robust direction resulting from the panel’s recommendations.

The Penrith Community Panel will begin meeting on September 5th and begin their discussions and later recommendations therein. More information is available at http://yoursaypenrith.com.au/ community-panel.

9 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

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Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Care about Colyton?

COUNCIL is calling on Colyton residents to celebrate what they love about their neighbourhood and work together on ideas to make it better.

At the moment, Team Colyton is just an idea– what Team Colyton looks like and how it will work is up to the community to decide when it meets in August.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said the plan was for Team Colyton to bring together people who care about Colyton, including residents, teachers, business owners, representatives from local church, community and sporting groups.

“We’re calling on interested Colyton residents to come to the launch on Saturday August 15,” Cr Fowler said.

“You’ll hear more about how to get involved and join the team, and we’ll put on some good food and have a celebration to kick off Team Colyton”.

“Team Colyton will build on the things people love about Colyton and work together on the things people would like to see improved because sometimes older suburbs like Colyton don’t get a fair go.”

Find out more at the community launch – Saturday August 15, 2-4pm, Colyton Neighbourhood Centre. For more information call Lila Kennelly on 4732 8141.

Want to change your neighbourhood?

MAGNETIC Places, a community cultural grants program which transforms public spaces, will open for its eighth year next month.

Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Magnetic Places grants are available in two categories: • Celebrating Places (up to $5,000) for projects that use creative engagement with residents to celebrate a local area or space • Making Places (up to $10,000) for projects that transform a public or local meeting space using creative and cultural collaboration with the community through a series of activities.

“With a Magnetic Places grant you can Mosaic artist Abbas Makrab with keen participants of The Song Room’s create an artistic project that highlights a project at St Marys North Public School. (Photo: Katrina James) public space in your neighbourhood,” Cr Fowler said. “This program offers local people creative of the participants: new friendships were made, plans opportunities to connect with each other and also have hatched for more creative projects to follow. And respond to local issues.” the work of our budding artists set a wonderful example Eligible neighbourhoods for the program are for our students who are also learning to express Cambridge Park, Colyton, Cranebrook, Kingswood, themselves through art.”

Kingswood Park, Llandilo, Londonderry, North St Grant applications open on 20 August and will close Marys, Oxley Park, Penrith (suburb), St Marys and on 28 September.

Werrington.

For more information go to penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/ Alison Windsor, NSW Regional Program magneticplaces.

Coordinator of The Song Room, can attest to the value A Free Grant Writing Workshop will be held on of the program following this year’s Every Face Has a Friday 21 August, 10am-2pm. In this workshop you Place Project with the Parents and Friends of St Marys can review application questions, receive writing tips North Public School. and test out project ideas. It’s also a good way to meet “The artworks created in our mosaic project carry potential project partners like community organisations a powerful message of community pride in St Marys and individual artists. To register contact Donita North,” she said.

Hulme on magneticplaces@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au or “But the project’s impact is also strong in the lives 4732 7809.

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SUICIDE Prevention and Support Network Western Sydney (SPSNWS) is desperately seeking volunteers.

Established after a community forum was held in Glenmore Park in October, 2008, the network conducts general monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of each month (6.30pm8pm) at Penrith Bowling Club.

These meetings help people manage their grief and talk to some about how they are feeling after the loss of a loved one to suicide.

The network mission statement is to: 1. Raising public awareness of services to assist suicide prevention 2. Providing a voice for those affected by suicide 3. Support bereaved families The voluntary members are the driving force behind the networks success – they are the backbone of the organisation.

The network also runs two mutual self-help suicide bereavement support group in Penrith and Richmond.

These support group meetings are free to the community.

Those needing support can make enquires to the facilitator via: www. supportaftersuicide.com.au; email to admin@supportaftersuicide.com.au or

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Helping prevent suicide

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Network volunteers at the annual RU OK Day at Richmond Park.

text message or call 0402 627 969.

People interested in volunteering for the network do not need an experience.

They need to spare minimum of 2-3 hours spare per month (or more depending on the level of involvement you wish to have).

Volunteers can participate in many different activities, such as administration of the website, volunteering to sell raffle tickets in the marketplace, promotional

activities such as providing assistance with running an RU OK? Day event (and other special events conducted throughout the year.

Network member volunteers come together on RU OK Day and give out free coffee and morning tea on RU OK Day which this year is on September 10 in Richmond and for the first time this year, in Penrith.

RU OK Day is held annually on the second Thursday in September.

RUOK Day encourages people to

create a conversation that can save a life by talking through their problems and seeking assistance to prevent suicide.

New members are encouraged to share their ideas, and as a network we can help our dreams of helping people a reality.

For more information, please call the Networks Chair and Lead Facilitator, Ray Lemon, on 0402 627 969 or email admin@ supportaftersuicide.com.au

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Legends of the Nepean

By Greg Martin

VINCE Le Breton is a proud family man.

Proud of his immediate family – wife, Robyn, son, Andrew, 32 and daughters, Danielle,

33, Melissa, 28 and 22-year-old Renee.

And also proud of his extended family – all the players, coaches, managers, parents, committee members and supporters of Brothers Junior Rugby League Club who have crossed his path during his long association with the club.

And that goes back to 1968 when Brothers became the newest club within the giant Penrith District Junior Rugby League.

Throughout that time, 62-year-old Vince has done it all within Brothers.

He’s pulled on the footy jersey, coached junior sides, been a committee member, held down the secretary’s position and for nearly as many years you can count on your fingers and toes, has been a very proud president of his beloved club.

And while on the subject of fingers and toes….

During the interview for this article, I asked Vince, a maths teacher at Windsor’s Bede Polding College, how many years he had held the presidency.

“Well, I was president from 19952004 and then again from 2010 until now,” he replied, counting off the

years on his fingers.

Well, I just couldn’t stop laughing!

“Do you want to borrow my fingers,” I said with a huge grin.

“Please don’t mention the counting on fingers bit in your story,” Vince laughed.

“Of course not,” I replied.

So that’s a total of – wait while I take off my socks – 16 years Vince has been at the helm of Brothers JRLC. Let me tell you folks, Vince Le Breton is a man you can count on!

As well as helping turn Brothers into one of the most successful clubs in the PDJRL, he has strived to promote rugby league amongst young girls and was also instrumental, along with great mates, Barry Costa and Bill Buckley, in establishing the wonderful Try Time.

St Dominics College and Brothers have produced a huge number of quality footballers including Des Hasler, Greg and Ben Alexander, Luke Rooney, Tim Sheens, Glenn Nissen and Tas Baiteri to name but a few.

Try Time is a program in which intellectually disabled children can play what Vince believes is still The Greatest Game of All.

Initiated several years ago by Wentworthville RLF club, the concept was quickly recognised by the Three Musketeers – Vince, Barry and Bill – as a program which should be introduced locally.

“Barry and Bill were sent off to reconnoitre and returned bursting with enthusiasm and a glowing report about what it was achieving for the kids, parents, carers and other loved ones,” Vince said.

So our intrepid Aramis, Athos and Porthos at the beginning of the footy season last year established Brothers’ very own Try Time squad.

Each Sunday the children assemble for a variety of drills including warm-up, catching, passing, tackling and learning the rules and then playing game of touch footy.

“All the kids from our other junior sides have been wonderful in lending a hand with Try Time, turning up on Sunday mornings to give the Try Timers a game of footy and help with the training,” Vince said.

Vince says he was brought to tears when one of the mothers related a story to him.

“She told me that her husband and their autistic son had nothing

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VINCE LE BRETON in common and it was a strained relationship but since their involvement in Try Time the pair talk about little else other than football,” Vince said.

“The lady said that they are now just so close and that Try Time had been a Godsend.”

The Try Timers were in for a special treat at the 2014 season’s end when Brothers held their Saturday Competitions presentation day at Hickey’s Lane.

“We invited each of the players onto the stage to receive participation trophies in front of more than 1000 people,” Vince explained.

“Barry Costa individually introduced the players and each of them was greeted with sustained clapping and cheering.

“It was just wonderful watching the looks on their faces as they received not only their trophies but a pair of training shoes – it is something I’ll never forget!”

Despite many girls playing in PDJRL teams across a number of clubs, they are lost to the game when they turn 12 due to rugby league regulations.

Vince is endeavouring to ensure

that girls who want to play the game can continue to do so into their teens and adulthood.

To do that, Vince says you need to start at the beginning.

“Our aim is to introduce all-girls mini sides and encourage and promote them to stay with the game,” he said.

Brothers fielded a mini girl’s side for most of this season but illnesses and non-football related injuries took a toll on the numbers and the side dropped out of the competition.

“But we are utterly determined to continue with our efforts in promoting girls-only teams,” Vince said.

Vince’s greatest love – other than Robyn, his four children and three grandchildren – has always been rugby league.

“I was a top-order batsman in cricket until I was 40, played baseball for several years in my teens and I still love playing golf although I rarely get time to get in a round these days,” Vince said.

Vince says he has been fortunate in that all members of the family “love their sport”.

Robyn is equally passionate about netball and has been a long-time member of the Penrith RSL Netball

Club executive, Andrew was a pretty handy league player and the three girls followed their mother into the sport.

“Robyn and I are very proud of our kids,” he said.

“Each of them graduated from university and landed good jobs – Danielle is a lawyer, Andrew and Melissa are teachers and Renee is a marketing executive with Harvey Norman.

“Robyn and I are also chuffed that the four of them still play sport – the girls love their netball and Andrew, who now lives in New Zealand with his family, pulls on the boots for a rugby union club at Whangarei.”

And you can bet your bottom dollar the Le Breton siblings are equally proud of Vince and Robyn.

You can count on it!

Vince Le Breton nominated as a Legend of the Nepean

by Bill Buckley.

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

Vince Le Breton ptesents an award to one of his young Brothers charges.

13

A decade of dedication HELPING people enhance their beauty is something that Rejuven8 Cosmetic Clinic has excelled at and now they are celebrating their tenth birthday!

Nita had a passion for cosmetic work and, with her colleague Dr Lim realised that there were limited services in the Penrith area.

“We love the people of Penrith,” Nita said, adding that she’s had no regrets.

“It really is rewarding to help people reach the confidence level that comes from bringing the beauty they already possessed to the surface.”

Statistics show that most small businesses fail within the first year of so, so reaching the ten-year milestone is quite an achievement in any industry. So what advice does Nita have for others embarking on their own small business and what should they bring to the table?

“A lot of blood, sweat and tears,” Nita laughed. “And a willingness to work long hours, but above all enjoy what you do, because it will come out in your work.”

Nita said that one of the main reasons Rejuven8 has been such a success story is specialising in

their work and maintaining a great reputation.

“We pride ourselves in delivering the best service we can at all times,” Nita said.

“Decide on your specialty and stick with that. There are beauty services popping up everywhere these days; within other services. You can’t mix your services because you can’t shine in a particular area - and something will end up compromised.

“And of course the icing on the cake for us has been having the perfect staff. Its a team effort!”

It might be their birthday, but they are the ones giving out the presents!

Call them now to take advantage of the birthday specials, you wont believe the special deals they have in honour of the local support that has helped them achieve this special milestone.

Call 4732 4009 to find out more.

15 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

localnews local

localnews local

16 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Ready, set go!

Change in direction

a live broadcast. The MC maintained the festive mood with competitions (including, but not limited to, an air guitar competition) plus many prize giveaways including over $1,000 in Target gift cards.

Target St Marys again took out the number one position nationally for total sales on the first day of trade which was an amazing result for Store Manager Michelle and her team!

St Marys Village Marketing Manager Lisa McLaughlin was thrilled with the event’s success.

“We were really excited to partner with Target and deliver a fun evening,” Lisa said.

“It was fabulous to see so many of our customers and the local community come down and participate in the fun.”

AT the stroke of midnight on July 22, St Marys Village partnered with Target to support the launch of The Greatest Toy Sale on Earth.

In the weeks leading up to the Toy Sale a centre-wide ‘Spend to Win’ competition was held providing customers with the chance to win a $500 “five minute trolley dash” (think supermarket-sweep) for toys.

The five winners were given the jump on the rest of the public ahead of the official 12am launch and at 11.45pm filled their trolleys with their most coveted toys before the remaining queue of over 250 customers followed.

The Trolley Dash fun and festivities started from 9pm and local radio station Vintage FM conducted

By Stewart Moses @TheRiffMarn

AFTER over six decades service as a player, administrator, CEO and in later years as Chairman of the Panthers Board, news emerged early last week that Don Feltis, 80 tendered his resignation last Friday week with immediate effect as did Deputy Chairman, John Hiatt, 79 with both citing that it was the right time to go.

Although there has been rumblings behind the scenes that perhaps the pair had been given an ultimatum to resign

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before the next board election, there is no disputing their contribution to Panthers over a sustained period of time.

In fact Feltis won’t be totally lost to rugby league having confirmed to Nepean News that he will continue to serve the Penrith Junior RL in a part time capacity providing compliance and legal guidance.

Whilst it has been confirmed that current directors Brian Fletcher and Dave O’Neill have taken over as Chairman and Deputy Chairman respectively the question remains as to who will be appointed at next month’s board meeting?

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nepeanhistory nepean

18 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

EMU PLAINS GOVERNMENT AGRICULTURAL ESTABLISHMENT 1819 - 1832

Lorraine Stacker

T

HE Emu Plains Agricultural Establishment operated from 11 September 1819 until 31 August 1832. It was established by Lachlan Macquarie to take the high number of surplus convicts in the colony as well as new arrivals. The agricultural station holds an important place in the history of convict administration in New South Wales, with hundreds of convicts processed through the farm. Some had just arrived on transport ships, some were reprocessed and re-educated in agricultural work, and some remained there to give service as overseers, gardeners, watchmen, butchers and clerks.

The farm played an important economic role in the Nepean district, providing a source for the sale of goods, the employment of clearing gangs and individual assignment of convicts to local settlers. It was ideally placed to not only benefit from its agricultural richness, but also to oversee movements of convicts, settlers and stock over the mountains.

Its first Superintendent was Richard Fitzgerald, an ex-convict of exceptional administrative and agricultural talent. He was well respected by the highest dignitaries in the colony such asJohn Macarthur and especially by the early governors, in particular Lachlan Macquarie, who called him ‘this excellent man’. Fitzgerald set up the farm and remained as its Superintendent until February 1822. Constant criticism and legal challenges by Sir John Jamison of Regentville marred his time at Emu Plains. Commissioner Bigge, in his report, considered Emu Plains successful in its original purpose and was one of the best places of punishment in the colony. Macquarie thought that ‘Emu Plains succeeds even beyond my most sanguine hopes’.

Lieutenant Peter Murdoch was appointed Superintent in April 1822 and remained there until December 1824. He was a Scotsman and a friend of Sir Thomas Brisbane, the new governor. Murdoch implemented the changes suggested by the Bigge Report. Emu Plains increased in size and at times held 500 convicts. Discipline and punishment were important aspects of convict administration during this period. Although Brisbane’s administration came under criticism for sending female convicts to Emu Plains, his purpose was founded upon his desire to employ the women productively. Brisbane thought Murdoch a most moral man. In 1823 a newspaper report stated that ‘The grandest sight that has ever exhibited itself in the colony, in harvest time, is the amazing field of wheat on Emu Plains…we shall not fail to notice the excellent discipline of this place, and the consequent wonderful reformation…of the most abandoned of the human family’. Murdoch left Emu Plains in December 1824.

After Murdoch, the Kinghorne family, father Alexander followed by his son James, were Superintendents of the farm from 1825 to September 1829. Alexander remained for just twelve months on the farm before his appointment as Civil Engineer of the colony. During his superintendence convicts performed the first plays at Emu Plains. Brisbane was impressed by the farm for it turned an ‘idle disorderly vagabond…[into] a regular industrious servant’. Emu Plains flourished under Alexander Kinghorne’s superintendence, which exhibited ‘a picture of comfort, regularity and discipline’.

James Kinghorne was appointed in February 1826 and remained there until September 1829. He oversaw a period of great production on the farm of wheat, maize and tobacco. The movement of great numbers of government stock was important aspects of the farm’s activities. In

Government House Emu Plains, was built to the specifications of Governor Macquarie in 1820. It served as a residence for the overseer and the occasional occupation of the Governor.

July 1826 there were 392 bushels of wheat in the granary, 4000 bushels of wheat in stacks, 6256 bushels of maize in the stores at the farm. Although under Kinghorne the farm was highly productive, it also went through one of the worst droughts in the colony’s history during 1827-1829. During this period, Emu Plains was responsible for supporting many of the agricultural and penal settlements in New South Wales, especially Rooty Hill, Moreton Bay and Norfolk Island.

John Maxwell took over from James Kinghorne who replaced Maxwell at the Wellington Valley station. Maxwell had been Superintendent of Government Stock at Bathurst and Wellington Valley. By the time of his arrival in early 1830 the farm had gradually changed its focus from an agricultural to a stock station. He was responsible for all government stock in New South Wales. His primary responsibility was wider than just the station at Emu Plains. Problems with sharing the station with the Mounted Police led to his resignation.

James Smith, the Superintendent of the Grose Farm and Longbottom agricultural stations, replaced Maxwell in August 1831. Smith was to oversee the closure of the farm under the direction of Governor Richard Bourke. Bourke was an agent of change for he also was influential in the decision for Transportation to end in New South Wales. The final twelve months was tied up in deciding if and when the farm would be closed.

From January 1832 Smith was struggling to maintain the station, even down to his lack of stationery. From June 1832 the wind-up fully began with the movement of stock and men from the station. A full inventory was undertaken, which included knives, forks, spoons and the three combs left on the station. This inventory was a sad reflection of its vibrant past and a reminder of just how important it was to convict administration in New South Wales.

Soon after the farm closed, H. F. White surveyed the land for a town.

White followed the contours of the agricultural station, laying out the village and streets along roads and paddocks created by the convict farm.

Lorraine Stacker is the author of: Chained to the Soil on the Plains of Emu: A History of the Emu Plains Government Agricultural Establishment; 1819-1832, Penrith the makings of a City.

20

localnews local

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Lions’ sportsman’s lunch EMU Plains Glenmore Park Lions Junior AFL Club’s second Sportsman’s lunch on September 11 at Penrith Paceway will this year raise funds not only for the club but for The Ronald McDonald Family Room in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Nepean Hospital.

Indeed 80% of profits from the lunch will be directed to Ronald McDonald Family room!

“We are hoping to exceed our donation of $16,000 in 2013 and raise over $30,000 for the Ronald McDonald Nepean Family Room,” said club president, Sean Hogan.

“The money raised will go towards the purchase of a muchneeded van which is essential in the day-to-day operations of the Ronald McDonald Nepean Family Room.”

The day will be hosted by Fox Sports Andrew Voss and we will be joined by some great guest speakers on the day – the guests will be announced in upcoming weeks.

Tickets are $100 a head or tables of 10 for $1000.

“Sponsorship packages are available for the lunch - all sponsorship packages include a table of 10 people and advertising on the

Andrew Voss interviews Wally Lewis. Voss will MC the Lions lunch.

day,” said Sean.

“Interested businesses or individuals can call me on 0414 637 513 to enquire about sponsoring the lunch.

“We are currently seeking donations and prizes for the raffles and auctions on the day. In return for your company’s generous donation or gift we will advertise your company in our sponsor’s booklet that will be handed out on the day.

“If your company would like to donate please contact either Grahame Bilton on 0409 661 497 or Megan Hall on 0412 605 249.”

www.lionsafl.com.au

Emu Plains Glenmore Park Lions Junior AFL Club is a non for profit Australian Rules Football club which was founded in 2000.

“From humble beginnings with 47 players taking the field in our first year, we have grown to be a club of over 247 players and are expecting huge growth over the coming years as AFL makes it mark in Western Sydney,” Sean said.

“As our club grows we believe it is important to teach our young players the importance of community involvement.

“The club’s aims and core values

is to give back to the community so we are going to be giving most of the money raised to the Ronald McDonald Nepean Family Room.

“The room provides a supportive and nurturing environment for families of babies being treated in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Nepean Hospital.

“We have a great day planned and spots are limited so please get on board and purchase your tickets as soon as possible.”

Sean’s number again for any further information - on 0414 637 513.

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE 2015 SPORTMAN’S LUNCH AS A SPECIAL GUEST OF EPGP LIONS The lunch is going to be a club and charity fundraiser.

We are hoping to exceed our donation of $16,000 in 2013 and raise over $30,000 for the Ronald McDonald Nepean Family Room. The money raised will go towards the purchase of a much needed van which is essential in the day to day operations of the Ronald McDonald Nepean Family Room.

WHEN: WHERE: TIME: RSVP:

Friday 11th September 2015 Penrith Paceway, 141 Station Street, Penrith 11.30am - 4.00pm To Sean Hogan president@lionsafl.com.au by August 14th

We hope to see you on the day to help us raise funds for this amazing cause

2015 PENRITH DISTRICT SHOW @ PENRITH PACEWAY

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August 2015 For non show goers we will be again holding a Car Show & Ute Muster on the Sunday.

We will also be holding a Food & Wine Expo in conjunction with this year’s show.

This year’s major attraction in centre ring is The Jetcars with two performances on Saturday and one on Sunday.

The Major attraction on Centre Stage is Elvis in Concert featuring David Cazalet

22

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

Heavens Above with Reverend Ross Hutchison

Collision – let’s work our way around It! Does anyone know where we are up to and what we do now? Religions and religious, governments and morality are “shoulding” all over themselves”.

From all parts we are being told: you should do this; you should do that; you should have done this and you should have done that.

When all essence those who portend to be our leaders are in tatters and turmoil themselves!

No-one can trust or depend on anyone - be it within our governments or our religious leaders and all those supposed “do-gooders “.

We need to take care of ourselves - we can do it too!

My “Light Bulb Flash” is for you and me now! To go through our bibles and whatever other book of rules we have been following.

Let’s determine and reveal all of the “feel good” words and phrases in them so that we can form our own “New Book of Guidance” We can team up and set our own values to adopt and follow!

I am not a betting man but in this case I will make a bet....

I can surely bet that whatever books and bibles or whatevers we are researching and have been following, the basic simple and worthwhile “Guidelines for Us To Live By” will come out the same – no matter what religion or philosophy or doctrine we follow.

“Nice” will always be nice - it’s up to us.

Over to you now my dear friend! We can change the way we are being treated and told how to think and act.

I look forward to your words of wisdom.

Cheers for now, Your mate, Rossco

Mike’s Pantry with Mike Creed

Roasted Aubergine Dip - Baba Ghanouj ... Serves 4 INGREDIENTS: 2 medium aubergines Juice of 1 lemon 2T Tahini ½t Salt 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1t water Mint leaves, chooped for a garnish METHOD: Preheat oven to 200c.

Place the aubergines in a oven proof baking dish and prick the aubergines to stop them from ocassionally exploding. Bake for 40 minutes or until you can feel the centre is very soft.

Once baked, allow the aubergines to cool before you remove the skin and gently rinse under cool water to remove any excess black spots.

Mash auberines with a potato masher or fork, add the juice

of the lemon and mix well to prevent the aubergines from discolouring.

Add the tahini, salt, garlic and water, mix well.

Spoon into a serving dish, drizlle with a little olive oil and garnish with some chopped mint leaves.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Providing employees (8) 5 Hunting expedition (6) 9 An orientation or philosophy (8) 10 What movies are projected onto (6) 12 One who studies the past (9) 13 Avoid (5) 14 Highly excited (4) 16 Left out (7) 19 Actress/singer Judy _______ (7) 21 Crimp or bend (4) 24 Memos (5) 25 Unshaken (9) 27 In a crooked line (6) 28 Trachea (8) 29 Not dots (6) 30 Contracts to lease transportation (8)

DOWN 1 A metalshop (6) 2 Discrimination against the elderly (6) 3 A printed leaf or page (5) 4 Shrewish (7) 6 Accumulation (9) 7 Sufficient (8) 8 Insinuation (8) 11 Pearly-shelled mussel (4) 15 Crystal (9) 17 Suffered pain or anguish (8) 18 People who are mentored (8) 20 Beat thoroughly in a competition (4) 21 A Jewish prayer of mourning (7) 22 Pace (6) 23 Bovine mammary glands (6) 26 Beneath (5)

solution 23/7/15

THIS August, arriving straight from the Ensemble Theatre, The Joan presents Ladies in Lavender. Starring Penny Cook, Sharon Flanagan and Gael Ballantyne and directed by Nicole Buffoni, Ladies in Lavender was adapted for the stage by Shaun McKenna from the screenplay of the Judi Dench and Maggie Smith film by Charles Dance.

The play has already received rave reviews for its city season, with audiences and critics warmed by its charm, and brightened by its wry humour and celebration of life.

Set in the shadow of World War I, sisters Ursula and Janet live a relaxed and slow paced life in a remote village on the Cornish coast. When a young mysterious man washes up on the shore, the sisters nurse him back to health, stirring up emotions of lost love and longing. “..it rolls in, lapping at the shoreline of your emotions. It’s funny, sympathetic and superbly paced.” Lloyd Bradford Syke, Syke on Stage “…this well-rounded and technically adroit production, directed

by Nicole Buffoni, is emotionally satisfying. Penny Cook and Sharon Flanagan are expertly matched and very convincing as the temperamentally contrasting sisters…” - Jason Blake, Sydney Morning Herald

Ladies in Lavender is on in the Q Theatre, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Friday 21 August at 11am and 8pm and Saturday 22 August at 2pm and 8pm. Tickets are $55 Adult and $50 Concession, with Seniors Matinee Club tickets $30 for the 21 August 11am performance.

Subscription packages are still available.

To book call our Box Office on 4723-7600 or online at www. thejoan.com.au. The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre is located at 597 High Street, Penrith. Nearby parking and public transport is available.

SUDOKU: EASY

Ladies in Lavender

23 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

SOLUTION: 23rd July

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

24

sport

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

REPEAT SETS WITH STEW MOSES

@THERIFFMARN

INJURY-RAVAGED PANTHERS WALK FINALS TIGHTROPE IT feels like ground hog day reporting this week on the fortunes or rather misfortunes of the Penrith Panthers.

Whilst the Panthers may have again lost the past two games to lose four in a row for the first time since Round 22, 2013, at least Ivan Cleary felt Penrith were entitled to the two competition points in both those losses to Canberra 34-24 and Souths 20-16 with errors the key reason for not winning those games.

In the Raiders game, continual errors soon after Penrith scored their four tries not only denied themselves of the ability to build momentum but were compounded by tries scored by the Raiders.

But as the dust settled from that result, the real drama unfolded the next day when news emerged that skipper Peter Wallace, again suffered a seasonending injury to the same knee in the same manner to the one incurred exactly a year earlier.

Rumours that this latest injury would force the skipper into retirement were wide of the mark but Wallace did later admit that another similar injury would see him call it a day.

To make matters worse, Dean Whare (broken thumb – 4-6 weeks), Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (lung – season) and Nigel Plum (concussion – 2 weeks) were added to the injury list while George Jennings’s recovery from a serious leg injury has suffered a potentially season-ending setback.

FOR Sunday’s clash with Souths the Panthers had more playing experience on the sidelines then on the field with ten players with a collective total of 1,186 NRL games experience versus the run-on team having just 1,123 games playing experience including ten players with less than 50 games experience.

NRL debutant Leilani Latu, became Penrith’s 550th NRL Player and the 30th player to be used by Ivan Cleary in 2015.

Souths on the other hand not only had an extra 600 odd games experience on Penrith but had the extra motivation of playing for skipper Greg Inglis in his 100th NRL game for the club.

Most experts wrote off the Panthers, given the injuries and Souths’ red hot form against Newcastle the previous week had them primed to inflict more pain on Penrith.

Somehow the Panthers rediscovered the resilience that took them deep into September last

Cleary after the game when he described his team’s performance as brave and felt entitled to the two points, rookie errors excepted.

The two losses still have the Panthers two wins out of the top eight in 12th place on 18 competition points and have the competition’s worst attacking record in 2015.

It’s becoming increasingly likely that 28 points once again will be the magic target to reach in order to make the top eight.

Is it a difficult task? Without a doubt. But is it achievable? Certainly when you consider Penrith’s run home includes Eels (A), Warriors (H), Dragons (A), Raiders (A) and Knights (H). Not the toughest of runs should the Panthers convert their resilience into wins over the coming weeks.

Skipper Peter Wallace once again suffers a season-ending knee injury

season despite injuries, to not only hold Souths at bay in the opening twenty minutes but lead 12-0 well into the first half.

But things became to conspire against the Panthers. Another season-ending injury surfaced with Robert Jennings forced from the field with a torn hamstring after he was nearly snapped in two by a flattening tackle from the Burgess brothers that referee Jared Maxwell could only say was a “very awkward looking tackle”.

Souths had levelled the scores by halftime and eventually gained the upper hand during the second half as the errors began to mount while key decisions deserted the Panthers including an error from Maxwell in not referring to the video referees for a possible eight point try when Lewis Brown scored late in the game only for Aaron Gray to come in late with the knees contacting the head.

To make matters worse, Will Smith was earlier denied an opportunity to score a try from Aaron Gray but unlike earlier games this year where Isaah Yeo was twice sin-binned for professional fouls by Maxwell, Gray wasn’t which prompted coach Ivan Cleary to ask the question “What is a professional foul?”

Penrith unlike previous games, didn’t drop their heads but came short of pulling off what would have been a win for the ages, a point not lost by

INCREDIBLY the next chapter of the Penrith Parramatta local derby will be written in Darwin of all places courtesy of a major scheduling bungle from the NRL. The Panthers will at least relish the trip up north having never lost in Darwin three previous visits to Darwin but a loss to the Eels will officially knock them out of the finals race for 2015.

Parramatta won this clash earlier in the year 2620 and a win here for the Eels will be the first time since 2005 that they will have defeated Penrith in both games in a season.

In team news, Waqa Blake remains marooned out on the wing as back-rowers Isaah Yeo and Lewis Brown are the new centre pairing allowing Bryce Cartwright to start the game, with Apisai Koroisau named on the bench.

SHOULD Penrith defeat the Eels a home clash awaits against a Warriors side that will be desperately reliant on Sam Tomkins and Tui Lolohea to cover the season-ending injury to playmaker Shaun Johnson.

Given the Warriors woes since losing Johnson, if Penrith can maintain their form against Souths, they should be good enough to get the cash in front of what should be a big crowd for an early Saturday evening clash at the foot of the mountains.

It appears the resolve and belief has returned and with that hopefully the errors will disappear and provided there are no more injuries, the Panthers might just still be in the finals race in two weeks’ time.

See you at the game!

BARRIER RISE

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.

Nepean News

ADRIFT: Gets her act together quickly for a Zabeel and Gai Waterhouse is tuning her spring campaign nicely. Beaut second to stablemate Amanpour at the Randwick trials.

ALPINA: This youngster is from the John Thompson yard and although no world beater, seemed to shape up nicely in a trial. Pacy.

BURNING PASSION: Good style of gelding trained

by Bart and James Cummings. Trialled in the usual stable mode when out for a morning stroll at the Randwick heats.

Plenty up the sleeve!

MAGIC OF DREAMS: Dashed up late to just miss when second in a Gosford trial. Winner of three from seven, he’s a big, solid sort from the highly effective Kris Lees operation.

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NANCY: Looks a bit of a sleeper and now ready to show us some real talent. Look for her to fire fresh for the Peter and Paul Snowden yard.

POWERCRAFT: Also trained at Newcastle by Kris Lees and still eligible for maidens. Motored up stylishly when a close second in a Gosford barrier trial last Monday.

REINCARNATE: Still a maiden but that should soon change when John O’Shea wheels him out shortly. Could have won a Randwick heat when checking in an easy second.

VANCOUVER: The best galloper of last season’s juvenile generation and he’s spot on to become our best three-year-old, too. Thorough sound-out when landing his trial from more seasoned older rivals.

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25 Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

sport

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186 Mark Geyer - Nepean News columnist

166 Sharon Spindler - Aussie Home Loans - 4732 6711

166 Mark Fitzpatrick - Penrith Valley Pest Control - 0430 220 263

160 Dave Seager - Seager Financial Services - 0411 107 776

170 Steve Beard - Select Mortgage - 0403 166 207

166 Paul Wallace - Property Central - 0412 272 407

158 Councillor Benard Bratusa - 0420 581 225

150 Aaron Tyres - @print - 4731 5055

176 Councillor Benard John Thain - 0411 427 812 Councillor Bratusa

170 Aaron DarrenTyres Latty -- @print PRDnationwide - 0414 620 532

178 Councillor John Thain - First National Claremont Meadows - 0419 650 947 Colleen Prestedge

184 Councillor Korena Hale Benard - Nepean Bratusa News Sales Manager - 0403 045 880

184 Kerrie Davies - Nepean News Editor - 0422 067 644

156 Stewart Moses - Nepean News Journalist

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162 Julie Lonard - 1st Choice Insurance Services - 0413 321 926

164 Steve Archer - Archer Financial Solutions - 0412 668 565

160 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

172 Daniel Galea - Adenbrook Homes - 9622 4091

176 Lee Waterhouse - Property Central - 0410 338 040

162 Jeff Watson - Club President, St Marys Band Club - 9623 1211

176 Trent Pittaway - Blue Cattledog Hotel - 9670 3050

170 Councillor Tricia Hitchen - 0417 365 313

168 Cameron Fiaco - Property Central - 0434 400 225

168 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

190 Peter Zaccazan - Zac Homes - 1300 350 793

188 Anthony Walker - BOQ - 1300 55 72 72

160 Michael Creed - Nepean News columnist

144

28

sport

Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

MY WORDS WITH MARK GEYER

THE OUTLAWING OF SHOULDER CHARGE HAS BEEN JUSTIFIED

The big hit! Shoulder charges have been justifiably outlawed.

Men of League – Vic Shipley, MG, Alex McKenzie and Stu Raper.

LAST Friday night in the clash between the Roosters and the Bulldogs, two 120kg players, both standing at 195cm smashed into each other with a force compatible to that of two cars colliding.

The Roosters’ young gun, Kane Evans, met the Bulldogs Sam Kasiano off a kick-off about 25 metres out from the Doggies line.

It wasn’t your everyday run of the mill meeting, Evans shoulder charged Kasiano and in doing so did what no other has managed to do before, sat the latter on his butt.

Straight away there were calls to ‘bring back the shoulder charge”.

Social media went into melt down, all continuing along the same vein as the enthusiastic commentators who saw “nothing wrong with the tackle”. And there wasn’t!

Well there never used to be but that tackle, the shoulder charge, is now illegal. It was two extra-large men meeting in the middle of the field with one coming off second best.

But if it (the shoulder charge) went an inch or two either way we’d be reading about a young footballer being suspended for a long time. I’ll put my hand up and say I was one of the thousands who got out of their chair after witnessing such a tackle but then quickly remembered why the game outlawed it.

I made my living using the shoulder charge as a player and was one of ‘those’ that couldn’t believe they’d ever take it out of our game. But it was time. The shoulder charge is a dangerous, hit and miss tackle that can go wrong really easily.

There’s a 100 other ways to bring an opponent down in a game of rugby league, I’m glad the shoulder charge is now not one of them.

A FEW weeks back I had a bit of a health scare. One morning I noticed that I passed blood. I instantly felt scared. I rang my doctor of 30 years, Norm Southern, and quickly arranged to see him.

He said it could be lots of things but wanted to make sure. After I had a blood test and scans on my abdomen and pelvis area he noticed there was a “cluster’ of something around my rectum area.

He sent me to a local gastroenterologist, Martin Grehan, who then booked me in for both an Endoscopy and Colonoscopy. The two weeks between the “cluster” findings and the eventual procedure were hectic.

I hardly slept and didn’t feel like doing anything as I was petrified the worst would be found. Dr Grehan found 11 polyps on my colon and cut them off whilst I was under anaesthetic.

The week later after another nervous wait I learnt that the polyps found were all benign. Phew!

But I will have to go back and have the same procedure every 12 months.

Why am I telling you something so private?

In hope that any man over 40 reading this will get rid of the bravado and have regular check-ups performed. Technology and science is now mostly on our side so why not take advantage of it?

I GOT a call from an acquaintance I hadn’t seen in a while a couple of weeks back. Stuart Raper, son of immortal John buzzed me.

He asked if I’d be keen to get involved in the Men of League charity. For those unaware, the Men of League was established in 2002 by league great Ron Coote with a sole purpose of helping those ‘ex leaguie’s’ who have fallen on hard times.

MoL helps players, coaches, referees, officials and administrators from all levels of the game as well as their families. Fantastic initiative!

But there hasn’t been a Penrith chapter, until now. We are now pleased to announce that those involved in rugby league from the local area will now be looked after a lot better.

The Penrith committee is as follows: President Alex McKenzie, along with Vic Shipley, Adam Pryzybla, Daniel McKinnon, Troy Dodds, Michael Todd, Chris Ayling, Simon Dicker and yours truly as the patron.

Our first ‘get together’ with all invited, is the launch of the Penrith Men of League, on August 27 at the Tattersall’s Hotel with tickets costing just $20.

If you’d like to know more or would like to attend, contact Alex on 0414 330 651 See you at the game!

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30

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Nepean News 6 August 2015 Issue 155

GOLDEN POINTS WITH STEW MOSES

Will Penrith retain their latest NRL debutant?

Penrith NSW Cup prop, Leilani Latu became Penrith first grader no. 550 when he made his NRL debut against Souths on Sunday.

The hulking 120kg prop came through the lower grades at the Bulldogs alongside David Klemmer but serious injuries almost curtailed a promising career before Penrith gave him a second chance last year, helping the club win the NSW Cup before this year’s ongoing injury crisis allowed Latu the opportunity to fulfil a dream.

Despite an encouraging NRL debut, it remains to be seen whether the club will be able to retain the prop given Phil Gould has suggested on social media that Penrith’s 2016 roster is done and dusted, which means the likes of Latu along with Sika Manu, Adam Docker, Isaac John, David Simmons, Sam Anderson and Ben Murdoch-Masila could be playing elsewhere in 2016.

Gardens Look Better Than Ever As Trent Barrett Officially Departs Penrith Finally the worst kept secret in rugby league for 2015 is out with Manly officially announcing that Geoff Toovey will be replaced by Trent Barrett as NRL coach for the next three years from 2016.

Not surprisingly, Penrith have called time on Barrett’s “gardening leave” with both Phil Gould and Ivan Cleary confirming the assistant coach has left the club.

It remains to be seen whether any other club staff or players (apart from those already announced) will follow Trent to Brookvale Oval.

As Another Panther Coach Eyes A Vacant NRL Coaching Position Last Monday, Newcastle swiftly announced Rick Stone’s sacking as NRL coach with immediate effect.

Penrith’s NSW Cup Coach, Garth Brennan, having been linked to the role once more, was reluctant to talk after last Saturday’s NSW Cup loss to the Cutters, stating his preference is to focus on the job at hand with Penrith.

However when told of the public endorsement both Phil Gould and Ivan Cleary gave him, a humbled Brennan stated that he has faith in the process that Knights CEO, Matt Gidley and John Quayle among others will take and added that the Newcastle hierarchy know how to get in touch with him should they wish to discuss further.

It’s been a big week for Leilani Latu (NRL debut) and equally a big week coming up for Big League Cheerleader Of The Year Finalist Jessica Gillarte

Outrage After DWZ’s Lung Condition Wrongly Reported…Again Although not named to play last Sunday, coach Ivan Cleary confirmed Dallin Watene-Zelezniak was set to make a remarkable return to the playing field until the Kiwi youngster pulled up unwell after training last Thursday, requiring x-rays that confirmed his lung which collapsed two weeks earlier, had not fully recovered.

The decision was made to have season-ending surgery which will at least correct a condition that has hampered Dallin over the past two seasons, but that didn’t stop various media outlets from incorrectly reporting Watene-Zelezniak had been rushed to hospital with a third collapsed lung which both Penrith and his family through manager Tyran Smith were quick to refute.

This came on top of last weekend’s report that suggested Dallin’s future in the game was under threat due to his condition when the medical expert quoted in the media was not even treating WateneZelezniak!

Round 26 Home Game Will Celebrate Penrith’s Bi-Centennial To help celebrate Penrith’s Bi-Centennial, Phil Gould announced during last week’s Council launch that the Round 26 clash versus Newcastle will be the Bi-Centennial game.

Watch this space as the Panthers in conjunction with council, look set to decorate the ground and coordinate festivities that will help celebrate Penrith’s 200 year history.

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Hawaii Off The Radar For Now As PNG Emerges As A Possible Trial Venue After Penrith CEO Justin Pascoe recently confirmed interest in playing an exhibition game in Hawaii, it’s now confirmed that those plans are off the table for now, after the RLPA confirmed players must have a six week break before commencing preseason.

If they play, Penrith’s pre-season would commence in mid-December, putting the Panthers well behind the eight-ball as far as preparation for 2016 are concerned.

Instead Penrith may look at Hawaii as a possible trial venue but don’t be surprised if the Panthers with links to PNG through James Segeyaro and the Albert brothers, instead opt for a trial game at Port Moresby’s recently renovated Sir John Guise Stadium.

Help Make A Wish For Seriously Sick Kids This Saturday This Saturday’s NSW Cup clash between Penrith and Mounties will be part of the NSWRL Wishleague round where clubs, players and fans will have the opportunity to raise funds for the NSWRL’s official charity partner, the Starlight Foundation.

Fans who attend are openly encouraged to donate money to the Foundation while clubs, players and fans are encouraged to promote awareness on social media by using the hashtag #WishLeague and referring to the Foundation’s twitter handle @ Starlight_Star.

With a massive clash between two of the competition’s big guns, get out to Pepper Stadium this Saturday and show your support for the Panthers and the Starlight Foundation.

Vote One For Pantherette Jessica Big League’s annual Cheerleader of the Year competition is hotting up with voting set to the open this Thursday for the seven finalists, including Pantherette, Jessica Gilarte.

Jessica when she isn’t cheering on the Panthers on game days, is studying a Bachelor of Policing degree with the view to pursuing a career with the Mounted Police Force and is looking to become Penrith’s first winner of this title since Amanda Flynn way back in 2000.

Make sure you look out for Jessica’s posts on Facebook and on Twitter @JessGilarte where all the details will be posted as to how you can vote for Jessica.

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Thursday, 6 August 2015

sport

Panthers’ good news-bad news

By Nowl Rowsell

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THERE are no trophies from the Penrith Basketball Association’s campaign in the senior Waratah Leagues but plenty of individual awards to cap off memorable seasons for some players.

Penrith Youth League forward, Sean Weekes, took out the top prize in his division, winning the Most Valuable Player award and also chosen in the Youth League All-Star Five.

Tahlia Tupaea missed a lot of the women’s Championship League season but still impressed the judges.

Despite being narrowly beaten for Leading Point-Scorer by team-mate, Alicia Poto, Tupaea still won selection into the Championship League All-Star Five.

Poto won two awards, the second as the Leading Assists winner.

Louis Brandt ensured the Penrith Championship League men’s team got at least one award, taking out “Leading Steals”.

There was also one award at the Hawkesbury Basketball Association, with Liam Moss winning Rookie of the Year in Youth League Men Division Two.

Tom Lewer soars high against the Comets. Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au

Ben Wagenfell heads towards the basket.

Photo courtesy Noel Rowsell www.photoexcellence.com.au

THE Waratah Leagues Finals Weekend was held at the Sutherland Basketball Stadium over the weekend.

The Penrith Association had just one chance to win a premiership title, suiting up the Youth League Men’s team against the Sydney City Comets on Saturday afternoon in a semi-final clash.

The Panthers could not rise to the

occasion on the day, with the Comets winning 93-84 to move through to the grand-final.

Surprisingly, they faced the Bankstown Bruins who had deposed minor premiers, Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, 80-65 in the second semi-final.

The Comets at least gave credit to Penrith’s performance, easily outclassing Bankstown 87-68 on Sunday to take out the premiership title.