Nepean News 6 December 2018

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ISSUE 241

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Pio is number one

Anybody who has been there knows how great the schnitzels, the music and the general vibe of the place is, but now the Pioneer Tavern has also been recognised as the state’s number one U.G.L.Y bartender as well! Full story page 29 Photo: Noel Rowsell

Carolyn’s Guide to Retirement Living in Western Sydney Carolyn is an expert with years of experience in the retirement living sector.

Here she continues her column sharing insights and answers to the frequently asked questions people have about living in a retirement village.

What are the costs? And what is an ingoing contribution? All villages have a variety of costs, aside from the cost of buying your home. The value is found in living in a safe and convenient community with like-minded neighbours. Homes are purchased and sold with the help a sales team, however outgoing residents are free to choose any real estate agent they like to sell their home. In cases where demand is high for a resale, an Expression of Interest process can be undertaken to gain the very best sales price. An additional notable difference in buying into a village is that you don’t have to pay stamp duty or transfer fees. In summary, the costs involved are the purchase price of your new home, a monthly service fee, a contract fee, and depending on the contract (a reselling fee).

What are you waiting for? If you want to learn more about retirement in Western Sydney call Carolyn on 0430 189 447. You can register for VIP updates on a brand new village coming to Jordan Springs, or visit jordanspringsretirement.com

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3 Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Prestigious science award Worship and Communion Sunday 9:30am

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he Victor Chang School Science Awards were presented to 22 Year 11 students from Penrith on Thursday 29 November at Penrith Civic Centre. The awards recognise excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) study and are named after the late cardiac surgeon and pioneer of the modern heart transplant.

As part of the award, the students will join a tour of the Victor Chang Institute where they will have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned scientists about the latest medical discoveries and technologies.

In a city that has science and health at the centre of its future, these dedicated students are well placed to excel in the fields of science, research

and innovation. Opportunities are ripe for inquiring young minds to drive scientific innovation in Australia with The Quarter, a health and education precinct located across 300ha between Penrith and St Marys, offering leading-edge medical education, research and practices including advanced robotics.

Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM highlighted the importance of these high achievers to Penrith.

“I congratulate the students receiving these awards, and thank the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute for recognising these bright young minds. Science drives innovation in almost every field - it’s exciting to know Penrith is emerging as a leading centre of scientific education, research and endeavour,” Cr Fowler said.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

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From the Editor’s Desk

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

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203 Banks Drive, St Clair Office: (02) 9834 5579 Editor: General Manager: Sales: Sales: Sports Journalist: Sports Journalist: Graphic Design: Photographer: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644 Bart Bassett 0412 955 745 Larry Davis 0432 062 643 Dianne Bonello 0418 813 319 Conner Lowe 0404 419 346 Stewart Moses 0417 680 533 Stacey Fortescue 0420 319 893 Hilary Nathan Media 0402 841 434 Pegasus Print Group, Blacktown nepeannews@aol.com www.wsnewsgroup.com

By KeRRIE DAVIES

J

UST when I think I’ve heard it all and there’s nothing left to roll my eyes at, out trots the movement from “new age” style parents who say that allowing your child to believe in Santa Clause will traumatise them because it’s a lie.

Kids will be forever scarred by the conspiracy that you, as a parent created and left them out of, they say.

What absolute garbage!

Personally I find it traumatising that there are parents out there who want to drop the Santa bomb and spoil the magic of Christmas for their children.

And what’s more, these “informed” children will no doubt roll up to school and share their discovery with the children of those parents who were happy to allow their kids to enjoy a childhood full of imagination.

If you are raising a child that you think will be traumatised by the magical aspect to Christmas, then I’m sorry to say that I think you’re in for much bigger problems down the track.

A child who is able to become a “victim” at a young age over a fairy tale that is filled with fun and excitement will not be very well-equipped when life doles out actual problems.

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

Call 9834 5579 to find out your nearest outlet.

If a child feels traumatised by the eventual revelation as they head toward high school age, perhaps a good life lesson for them would be to take them to a cancer ward in a children’s hospital, or show them pictures of children who are starving in under-developed countries; and teach them what actual traumatic situations are, and what actual victims look like.

Western society is getting sillier and sillier by the day.

As we dip into December I wish you and your family all the excitement and magic that goes with it, and now that we are only a couple of weeks away from Santa Clause making his appearance, make sure you have your Christmas list ready!

Check www.nepeannews.com.au for complete list of distribution outlets

Your thoughts? kerrie@nepeannews.com.au

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local news

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product safety and quality, and in ulnerable line with Blood Service practice, premature babies, will screen donors, collect, including those at process and test donated breast Nepean Hospital, will have a milk, to ensure recipient safety better chance of fighting off is not compromised,” says Mrs life-threatening infections and Sulfaro who was also formerly disease with the launch of a the Nurse Unit Manager at state-wide first donor human Nepean Hospital’s NICU. milk bank in NSW. New mum, Jenna Gregory, gave Run jointly by the Australian birth to baby Mason prematurely Red Cross Blood Service and at Nepean Hospital and needed NSW Health, the newly built donor milk to supplement her facility will pasteurise donor own supply. breast milk for babies who Ms Gregory strongly have a very low birth weight New mum, Jenna Gregory with her son Mason encourages any mother facing and need specialised care. a similar situation to hers to Australian Red Cross Blood consider the use of donor breast milk.

Service Milk Bank Manager, Chris Sulfaro says “It is properly screened and stored in the safest the introduction of a breast milk bank in NSW will of environments and you can guarantee that what’s bring easier access to a safe and reliable supply of being provided is the best nutrition on offer. Mason pasteurised donor breast milk to the nine Neonatal had immediate improvements when moving to Intensive Care Units (NICU) across the state, donor milk and you could visibly see he was including Nepean Hospital. heading in the right direction,” says Jenna.

“The Milk Bank is going to be a game changer.

“To the women who have donated I can’t thank It means a far more consistent supply to every you enough. You made what was already a hard unit and will have a positive impact on the lives road that little bit easier. You truly are angels.” of many premature babies and their families for Since its launch over a week ago, hundreds the better.” of mothers have come forward with offers of “The World Health Organisation recommends donations to the Milk Bank. pasteurised donor breast milk as the next best Mothers who produce an excess of breast milk source of nutrition for a baby when there is and live a healthy lifestyle may be eligible to insufficient supply of mother’s own milk.” donate and can contact the Milk Bank at milkbank.

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

High interest in Milk Bank

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Member for Penrith

Phone: 4722 8660 Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

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Judges L to R Karen, Jacqueline, Brendan

Contestants, L to R Connor, Gabrielle, Anika and Emily

By Jim Devine

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he Lions Club of Emu Plains held their Club Youth of the Year Final recently and what a great final it was. November 18 was the night for the interviews and Thursday 22 November was the Speech Night and dinner.

The contestants were Gabrielle Gregory of McCarthy Catholic College, Emily Johnson of Nepean Creative and Performing Arts High School, Anika Leydon of Penrith Anglican College and Connor Thorpe of St Paul’s Grammar.

The Club sponsor for the event

was Jim Aitken and Partners, for the fifth year running. NAB are the major sponsor nationally.

The judging panel consisted of, Karen Devine, operator of Devine Educational Consultancy Services, Jacqueline Koob, retired school Principal and Brendan McKeown, owner of Click Media.

The Public Speaking winner was Emily Johnson of Nepean CAPA High School, with the overall winner being Connor Thorpe of St Pauls Grammar, who will now progress to the Regional YOTY finals, to be held in Emu Plains for the first time, in March 2019.

Public speaking winner Emily Johnson

Overall winner Connor Thorpe

As the Emu Plains YOTY Chairman, I have noticed that every year the bar goes up and these four young locals represented themselves

and their schools admirably.

I don’t envy the judges because the decision is always difficult but this year it was a very keen contest.

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Oh what a night for our talented youth

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

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local news Lightning strikes twice for Tregear mum with $100,000 Instant Scratch-Its win

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Western Sydney mum has struck gold, not once but twice, by winning her second Instant Scratch-Its top prize, the latest being $100,000 on a $5 Diamond Dazzler ticket.

The winning Instant Scratch-Its ticket was purchased at Tregear Newsagency, Shop 4, 157-161 Aurora Drive, Tregear.

Speaking to a NSW Lotteries official last week, the happy woman revealed it wasn’t the first time she had won a top prize on an Instant Scratch-Its ticket, having had a $10,000 win several years ago.

“People say I’m lucky and it certainly feels like it with this win,” she laughed.

“It’s been a very nice start to the week! It’s exciting!”

“I scratched this yesterday and I had to hold onto it all day until I could come and claim it.

“I get some every Sunday. I don’t usually play $5 tickets and my partner went to the newsagency and they told him ‘she doesn’t buy $5 tickets.’ But he got

some anyway.

“I scratched them first thing in the morning. I had to wake up everybody to check the zeros for me. I said ‘look at the zeros, are you sure?’.”

The regular Instant Scratch-Its player explained

she kept waking up in the middle of the night to check she’d read her ticket correctly.

“I just couldn’t believe it!”

The happy mum plans to use some of her instant windfall to treat her family, especially with Christmas and some birthdays approaching.

“It’s come at a good time!” she declared.

Tregear Newsagency owner Joseph Feghali said it was great to sell another top prize winning Instant Scratch-Its ticket.

“What a great time of the year to win! We can’t wait to sell more winning tickets to our customers,” he rejoiced.

Last financial year, there were 158 Instant ScratchIts top prize winners across the Lott’s jurisdictions who collectively took home more than $11.28 million.

The latest range of Instant Scratch-Its tickets are available now at NSW Lotteries outlets. It can happen in an instant. It could happen to you.

Funding for Smart Cities to benefit Penrith Penrith Council, as a member of the Western Sydney Parkland Sensors Network project, will receive a portion of a $700,000 funding grant as part of the Federal Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs Program.

Across the Western Sydney City Deal area eight councils will install sensors that will record a range of activities.

The data collected will inform environmental and place management projects across the partner cities of Wollondilly, Penrith, Blue Mountains,

Camden, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Hawkesbury and Liverpool. Focused on the effects of heat, Penrith will install sensors to monitor heat and collect data on active travel patterns during extreme heat events.

Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population, Alan Tudge, announced the funding on 19 November.

“This program helps local governments who are pushing the boundaries with new ideas to address

liveability issues that are facing local communities everywhere,” Mr Tudge said.

By sharing data across the City Deal area, the depth of the information collected across the cities will provide an important tool for monitoring, planning and responding to environmental events across Penrith and beyond.

Penrith Mayor, Cr Ross Fowler OAM said, “We are excited to receive the news that this funding will be available for such an important project

for our community.”

Since 2015, Penrith City Council’s Cooling the City Strategy has been reducing the impact of heat on our city by introducing measures to reduce the effects of urban heat. This includes tree planting and landscaping enhancements along with vegetation management, park renewal and the redesign of precincts. The installation of these sensors will support strategic planning, delivery and outcomes for years to come.

Statement regarding the closure of Queen of Hearts The Queen of Hearts Foundation board has declined a proposal to continue the organisation under a revised business plan because it would not ensure the long-term viability of the foundation.

The Penrith-based child sexual abuse and domestic violence support service will instead be placed into the hands of a liquidator.

Last month it was reported that the foundation established in 2014 had been unable to raise enough funds through community donations to successfully implement the prefunded counselling services model.

A meeting of foundation members was called to consider a resolution to place it in the hands of a liquidator.

A proposal from two local

counsellors to continue the service was submitted to the board before the November 15 members meeting.

The members adjourned that meeting until November 27 to allow more time to work through the new proposal, which was seriously considered by the board and discussions held with Penrith City Council, one of the major stakeholders in the foundation.

A spokesperson said that while the board was delighted at the possibility the foundation might be able to continue, ``unfortunately the proposal relied heavily on community funding through donations and fundraising efforts, the successful awarding of grant applications as well as charging clients for the provision of counselling

services albeit on a proposed sliding scale’’.

The board was not confident that funds would be raised through fundraising activities or of successfully winning grant applications, and a fee-for-service model was not in line with the Queen of Hearts Community Foundation stated mission. ``From the experience of the board and those in attendance, we did not believe it would be a viable long-term solution given the struggle it has been the past twelve months to fundraise enough funds to implement the prefunded model for the provision of the counselling and advocacy services and programs. ``Should the Queen of Hearts

Foundation stay trading, we believe it would likely be in the same, if not worse, position than it is now in another twelve months’ time. ``On that basis, and with heavy hearts, the Members resolved to place the Queen of Hearts Foundation into the hands of a liquidator to wind up.’’

Surplus funds would be donated to the national Bravehearts Foundation and unfulfilled grants will be returned to their respective government agencies and providers.

The Queen of Hearts Foundation Board encouraged the Penrith community to continue to support similar organisations such as The Haven Nepean Women’s Shelter, Penrith Women’s Health Centre, Westcare and Bravehearts Foundation.

Police arrest man over Dharruk murder Police investigating the death of Erol Tokcan earlier this year have charged a man with murder.

Police and emergency services were called to a home on Livingston Avenue, Dharruk, about 9.45pm on Friday 9 March 2018, after reports of a home invasion.

A group of men entered the home and

threatened 38-year-old Erol Tokcan, before stabbing him and fleeing the scene.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to hospital, where he later died.

Officers attached to Mount Druitt Police Area Command with assistance from State Crime Command’s

Homicide Squad established a crime scene and commenced an investigation.

Following inquiries, about 3.55pm on Wednesday 28 November, police arrested a 23-year-old man at a home in Whalan.

A search warrant was executed at a home on Elke Way, Toongabbie, with several items being seized.

The arrested man was taken to Riverstone Police Station where he was charged with murder.

He was refused bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court Inquiries into the incident continue.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.

local news

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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ROVIDING the stunning backdrop to our beautiful Nepean Valley, the Blue Mountains have always held a fascination for tourists, attracting a constant flow of visitors all year round.

Now those visitors will have greater assistance in ensuring they get the most out of their visit.

Last week the ribbon was cut by our Foreign Minister, Liberal Senator the Hon Marise Payne and Mayor of Blue Mountains Council, Mark Greenhill; and the upgraded Glenbrook Visitor Information Centre was officially declared open for business.

The improvements to the visitor information centre are sure to enhance the experience for anyone wanting to explore what the mountains have to offer, and they can also pick up souvenirs to remember the visit.

“It was wonderful to join with members of the Blue Mountains community to officially open the new eye-catching centre which will help enhance the services offered by the local tourism operators,” Senator Payne said.

“By supporting the local tourism

industry we’re also ensuring there are local job opportunities which are critical for the regional economy.

“Whether it’s funding for Varuna House or CCTV cameras for Leura,

our Liberal-National Government understands the importance of delivering the modern infrastructure needed to support the Blue Mountains community and this centre is another example of that.”

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Blue Mountains tourism receives a federal boost

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

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local news

Funds to help local groups help others

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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epresentatives from local groups who help others had plenty to smile about last Friday, as they talked about the great things that they will be able to do with their federal grant.

Lindsay MP Emma Husar presented the funding to the many recipients who attended an afternoon tea at her Penrith office.

The funding is part of the Federal Government’s ‘Stronger Community Grants” made available to not-for-profit organisations to assist with contributing to the vitality of the Lindsay community.

A committee was formed to go over the applications; Mary Court, Elaine Talbot and Wayne Wilmington.

The recipients were: Mama Lana’s - $5430 for a new Fridge and freezer Paying It Forward - $8000 for a new vehicle to reach those in need Muru Mittigar - $7450 - A “Yarning Van” to access remote areas to provide financial and support advice Life Education - $6050 - update the signage and entrance at the Colyton site - home of Healthy Harold Nepean Multicultural Access - $3575 Computers and equipment for clients use + a mobility step for the community bus Penrith Valley Regional Sports Stadium - $14,567 for new seating including outdoor furniture constructed from 360,000 recycled plastic bags Penrith Performing Arts - $11,750 - signage in the gardens and a new projector for Art installations Penrith Women’s Health Centre - $5000 upgrade the premises Luke Priddis Foundation - $9062 - updating the facilities including new kitchen Nepean Food Services (Meals on Wheels) - $2,600 -new equipment to assist their clients with food distribution Anglican Church of Cranebrook - $15,000 - upgrade the eternal areas to eliminate flooding and provide play areas for local groups and members Congratulations to all!

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

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local news

› History calendar coming soon Did you know that Penrith was once home to the world walking champion? Do you remember when the Emu Plains rail underpass opened? (Spoiler alert – it was 1989). Brush up on your local history with the 2019 Penrith history calendar.

Penrith Library’s Research Services team have mined the archives of Penrith’s history to create the calendar, which contrasts ‘then and now’ pictures showing who we were and how we’ve grown.

Delve into our past with historical notes that provide an enlightening and colourful commentary of the city’s past. In February 1919, all outdoor gatherings were prohibited and all hotels closed due to the outbreak of pneumonic influenza. Ten years later, a cat was the subject of controversy at a Council meeting when a resident expressed their displeasure by bringing along a feline friend.

The Library’s photographic collection and the Research Services team are a key part of preserving our history and paint a picture of how we have grown from an outpost to a city.

Research Services staff are available to help with requests. In the new year the Library will open a refurbished Research Room that will house the local and specialist collections so that you can get hands on with our history.

Calendars are available at the Library and the Nepean Family History Society from December for $10.

Liberal Candidate selected

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he pre-selection for the Liberal Candidate for Lindsay was held last weekend, with Liberal branch members choosing Melissa McIntosh out of the four nominees.

Ms McIntosh currently works for Wentworth Community Housing and is a former Liberal Party staffer.

The other nominations came from Michael Creed, Belinda Hill and Ray King.

Sources told Nepean News that all four candidates spoke very well and many considered that all four had bright political futures ahead of them.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison is set to call a May 2019 federal election, so expect to see a lot of politics in the first half of next year as the state election will be held in March.

Michael Creed

Wishing you and your family a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy & Safe New Year

Belinda Hill

Ray King

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year & all the best for 2019 MAYOR

ROSS

Councillor Phone 0417 365 313

FOWLER Phone: 0419 738 484

local news

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he NSW Government recently announced the first schools to receive air conditioning under its Cooler Classrooms program, with all public schools in the Penrith electorate set to benefit.

Local Member Stuart Ayres welcomed the announcement.

“I’m pleased that all 20 public schools in our local community will benefit from the Cooler Classrooms Fund. This is part of the Government’s continued commitment to providing environments where our students and teachers can best succeed,” Stuart Ayres said.

“This is a great win for Penrith school students and something I have campaigned for over many years”.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Education Minister Rob Stokes said more than 900 schools would be the first to receive funding under the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government’s record $500 million program – the largest investment of its kind in NSW history.

“We’re thrilled to be delivering on our commitment to provide healthy learning environments in which our students and teachers can thrive, no matter the weather,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“Delivering air conditioning to more schools than ever before is only possible due to the strong economic management of the Liberals & Nationals Government.”

Schools in areas such as Penrith – that have an average maximum January temperature of 30

degrees or more – will now automatically receive air conditioning in their classrooms and libraries, while all other schools can apply for funding under the Cooler Classrooms Fund on a needs basis.

Previously only schools with an average maximum January temperature of 33 degrees or more were air conditioned.

The first round of applications took place throughout Term 3 this year. A second round will open in the new year.

Mr Stokes said, unlike Labor’s plans, the NSW Liberals & Nationals’ Cooler Classrooms program was both economically and environmentally sustainable.

“We’re installing solar panels and ‘smart systems’ alongside the air conditioning units, so schools can offset their additional energy use and efficiently heat and cool their schools,” he said.

In addition to the hundreds of schools benefiting under the Cooler Classrooms program, air

Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith

Wishing the Penrith community a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

Phone: 4722 8660 | Email: penrith@parliament.nsw.gov.au Shop 23, Tattersalls Centre, 510-534 High Street, Penrith

conditioning will be delivered in all new and upgraded schools under the Government’s record $6 billion school building program over the next four years.

“Every one of our 170 new and upgraded schools, including more than 2000 new classrooms, will also receive the new sustainable air conditioning systems,” Mr Stokes said.

Penrith Schools that will have their classrooms and libraries air conditioned under round one are: Braddock Public School Cambridge Gardens Public School Cranebrook High School Emu Heights Public School Emu Plains Public School Glenbrook Public School Henry Fulton Public School Jamison High School Jamisontown Public School Kingswood High School Kingswood Park Public School Kingswood Public School Kingswood South Public School Lapstone Public School Leonay Public School Penrith High School Penrith Public School Penrith South Public School Samuel Terry Public School York Public School School principals are encouraged to apply to the second round of the Fund, which will open on Day 1 of Term 1 next year. More information can be found at www.schoolinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au.

“At this special time of remembering the birth of Jesus, may His message bring you and your family hope and joy at Christmas and into the New Year”

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

All Penrith Public Schools to be air conditioned

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

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local news

Getting nowhere fast:

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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S we head into the festive season, Sylvia and Darren Falls and their son Kurt will be forced to spend another Christmas without their beloved daughter Candice. It has now been eight years since she was tragically killed in a car accident on the Great Western Highway at Colyton, so we thought we would re-run her story in the hope that it reinforces the dangers of speeding to our young residents.

December 11, 2010 began just like any other day for Sylvia and Darren Falls; but it ended more tragically than any parent could imagine and would be forever marked as the day they lost their beautiful daughter Candice.

Bubbly, popular, beautiful and just 19 years old, Candice was killed on impact when she was ejected from the back seat of a speeding car when it hit a pole at 2.15pm on the Great Western Highway at Colyton. She was ten weeks pregnant.

Sylvia Falls was shopping in St Marys that fateful day as the sirens screamed up the highway, and as she got home at approximately 5pm she received a call from a friend.

“Is Candice okay?” asked the caller, “I just saw ‘rip Candice Falls’ on facebook.”

Not realising at first that ‘rip’ meant ‘Rest in Peace’ Sylvia wasn’t overly alarmed as she called Candice’ mobile phone - a call that would never be answered.

Sylvia and Candice had been shopping together the night before and she’d spoken to her daughter at 1.45pm to see if she wanted to go to Ripples as it was a hot day. Little did she know as she hung up from that call her beloved daughter had less than an hour to live.

Candice, her boyfriend, a male friend and a female friend were planning to go to Cables and after calling Darren, Sylvia called the female friend. The friend had actually never been picked up, because it was on the way to pick up the fourth passenger that the car had crashed and ripped in half – never reaching its destination.

Meanwhile, Candice’ father, Darren was in the city when he received the call from Sylvia.

“Why are people writing ‘rip Candice’ on facebook?” Sylvia asked.

In an effort not to alarm her, Darren downplayed the meaning and dismissed it as something silly kids write – but immediately began calling hospitals and friends to see what he could find out.

When he finally located a friend who knew what had happened, the response was the most chilling words Darren would ever hear.

“She’s gone, man, she’s gone,” the friend said.

The two shattered parents headed towards Westmead from opposite directions; Darren in shock at the news that their daughter had gone and Sylvia worried about how bad the accident was and whether Candice was hurt – unaware that her daughter had actually lost her life more than three hours before.

“I headed to Westmead to be with her, little did I know she was already at the Coroner,” Sylvia reflected sadly.

The parents met at Westmead hospital and the news was confirmed; the two injured boys were there but Candice was at the Coroner. Her short life of 19 years had come to a heart-wrenching end.

Police arrived at 8.30 and officially confirmed their daughter was deceased.

“It’s a long time to wait,” Darren said. “Even though we knew long before then that there was no hope, we wanted details, we were saying just give us something.”

For Sylvia, the news of her daughter’s passing was the beginning of a nightmare that was about to get worse; Candice needed to be formally identified.

Labor Candidate for PenritH councillor

KAREN McKEOWN

Prue Car MP “ Member for Londonderry

A Very Merry Christmas to you and your family. All the best for 2019 and enjoy the holiday season!

“

Ph: 9833 1122 154 Queen Street, St Marys londonderry@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous 2019 Phone: 0491 095 227 karen.mckeown@nswlabor.org.au

local news

“I felt I needed to see her, so I thought it best that I go,” Sylvia said.

“I wish now that I hadn’t, as that picture will remain with me forever. It didn’t look like Candice.

She’d been gone for many hours by then and the swelling from her brain injury and the efforts to revive her made her look nothing like my daughter.

The shock really set in from seeing that she was wearing the clothes that she’d bought while we were shopping together the night before.”

Although the exact speed of the car is unconfirmed, it has been said that the car was travelling “in the high hundreds” along the stretch of road that has an 80 kilometre speed limit.

Candice never stood a chance in the crash, and now her vibrant personality and winning smile has been lost to the thousands of people she touched during her short time on earth.

But her memory will never be forgotten.

Still to this day, many cars in the area display a sticker honouring Candice as a reminder that speed kills. Many young drivers still don’t heed the message.

In an accident that was over in seconds, Candice lost her life, her parents were robbed of their only daughter, her brother Kurt was robbed of his only sister, her boyfriend lost his girl and baby - and a hole was left in the hearts of a thousand others.

For Sylvia, the days are forever etched with the horror of the loss of her only daughter and the occasions that will never be celebrated.

“Not a minute goes by that I’m not thinking of her,” Sylvia said.

“It is a horrible, horrible thing to have to endure. I know that there is nothing that we could have done to prevent it, but I can’t help but think ‘what if’ and ‘if only’.

“Every single day a new thought pops in my head that brings the shock all back again. I used to have a pigeon pair, now I have an only child; I will never celebrate her 21st, or enjoy grandchildren from her.”

Carols

Sunday 16th December Fun and games from 4.00pm Carols from 6.30pm

Service Sunday 23rd 10am Service Christmas Day 9am Penrith Salvation Army 48 Luttrell St, Glenmore Park facebook.com Search ‘Nepean/Penrith Salvation Army’ If raining, event will be held indoors

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

speed kills our children

15

“We just need to get the message out there – don’t show off, be responsible in a vehicle and don’t speed. “ Candice Falls is gone from this life forever.

Her death serves as a stark reminder that speeding is never cool. Things you think you need to get to in a hurry could never be as important as protecting your life or those with you and around you.

Speed kills. RIP Candice.

Christmas Day Communion Service 9am All welcome

Unit 8, 516 Great Western Hwy, St Marys Contact: (02) 9673 1009

www.newhorizonschurch.org.au

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

16

local news

Labor banks on Beamer, will Husar go independent?

By KeRRIE DAVIES

W

HEN the ABC broke the news that the Labor Party had selected former state MP Diane Beamer as the candidate for Lindsay, there were many who didn’t see it coming.

One of those who didn’t appear to have a heads up on it was incumbent Lindsay MP, Emma Husar who had just flagged her desire to remain as the Labor Candidate to re-contest the seat.

“I was surprised to read this morning reports that indicate intention for a retired NSW Labor Politician to run in my seat of Lindsay,” Ms Husar said in a statement on the day the news broke.

“In my last conversation with NSW

Labor secretary, I signalled my desire to recontest the seat. The allegations against me were by no means career ending. I have made my apologies.

Over the break, I had some time to reflect on the things I need to work on, and I have put them into action.

“I have undertaken a management course and I have a mentor working with me now. Ultimately I am the sitting member; I won the seat when all indicators were that I wouldn’t.

I am of the community and for the community.”

But soon it started to appear that there were people within the Labor hierarchy, including Londonderry MP Prue Car, who were banking on Beamer.

“In 1995, the Carr Government came to power because Diane Beamer won the State seat of Badgerys Creek

by 56 votes,” Ms Car wrote on social media.

“This was one of the most successful and transformative Labor Governments in history. She won that seat because she worked her guts out (with newborn twins).

“People still talk about her and the mark she left on our patch. Di breaks the stereotype of politicians that are self-serving and in it for themselves.

She is the real deal.

“It’s a privilege to be supporting her bid to represent our community once more.

“I know that if Di is selected as Labor’s candidate for Lindsay, she will, once more, deliver us another Labor Government. The Shorten Labor Government in Canberra,” she said.

So it would appear that the former

State Minister will have the support of enough in the Labor ranks to be preselected for Lindsay.

Many Labor sources have told me that supporting Diane Beamer in a tilt at Canberra is putting Lindsay in “a safe pair of hands.”

But it also opens the door to so many questions.

Will those who had put their hand up for pre-selection when Ms Husar first declared the seat vacant feel cheated?

If Emma Husar is an independent candidate, how will that play out with compulsory preferencing? Will she place Labor before Liberal or the other way around?

The only thing that is for certain at this point is that you should strap yourself in tight because we are almost certainly in for a wild ride!

Changed traffic conditions on M4 Motorway Motorists are advised of changed traffic conditions from today, December 6, as part of The Northern Road upgrade between Glenmore Parkway at Glenmore Park and Jamison Road at South Penrith.

Work will take place to install temporary barriers, build temporary access roads as well as change signs and line marking.

The eastbound off ramp and westbound on ramp at the M4 Motorway interchange on The Northern

Road will be closed from 10pm each night on the following dates, weather permitting: • Thursday 6 and 13 December, reopening at 5am • Friday 7 and 14 December, reopening at 8am • Saturday 8 and 15 December, reopening at 9am.

Temporary traffic changes will be in place to ensure the work zone is safe for workers and motorists.

While work is carried out, motorists will be detoured via Mulgoa Road, Jane Street, North Street

and Parker Street.

Electronic message signs will be in place to direct road users through these changes.

Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the direction of signs and traffic control.

Roads and Maritime Services thank the community for its patience while work is carried out.

For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

Police: Woman charged over ‘sob story’ fraud A woman has been charged with fraud offences after allegedly using made up stories to convince members of the public to give her money.

Officers from North West Metropolitan Region’s Operation Countdown recently launched an investigation after becoming aware of the instances occurring in Sydney’s west.

The incidents involved a woman approaching strangers in car parks across Nepean, Mt Druitt and The Hills Police Area Commands, claiming that her mother is sick in Newcastle Hospital and that she needed money for petrol and hospital parking.

Following inquiries, about 11.30am on Wednesday 21 November 2018, a 49-year-old woman was

arrested at Penrith Police Station.

She was charged with dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception and granted conditional bail to appear at Penrith Local Court on Tuesday 18 December 2018.

Inquiries into the incidents continue, and further charges are likely.

local news

By Noel Rowsell

C

ambridge Park Lions Club, under the auspices of the Lions Children’s Mobility Fund (LCMF), has donated a Rifton PACER Walker to Amiah-Grace Tuakalau, a young four-year old girl who lives in Minchinbury and who has Cerebral Palsy.

Greg English, Chairman of the LCMF, District 201N, Cambridge Park President Alan Bideleux, Past Cambridge Park President Charles Armstrong and his wife Pat were all on hand representing the Lions Club of Cambridge Park to present the Walker to the Tuakalau family.

Amiah-Grace is the daughter of Numa and Felila Tuakalau, who have lived in Minchinbury for the past seven years and are preparing to send their two daughters (four year old Amiah-Grace and three-year old Alyahna-Grace) to pre-school.

The walker is a wonderful donation to the family, allowing Amiah-Grace greater mobility and lowering a number of risks from the disability.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a physical disability that affects both movement and posture.It is a permanent life-long condition but generally does not worsen over time and is due to damage to the developing

purchased over $2,000,000 worth of walkers, which is around 400 walkers”.

Benefits of the Rifton PACER Walker for children like Amiah-Grace are life changing!

Along with increased motion, decreased spasticity, improved physical development of joint and bones and better lung function, the walker improves visual awareness, a higher level of cogitative growth and promotes a more active lifestyle.

Cambridge Park Lions Club is delighted to be able to assist with this walker which will allow Amiah-Grace more freedom to enjoy Pre School and many other social activities with her family.

This Rifton PACER Walker for Amiah-Grace is one of many projects the Cambridge Park Lions have supported, using funds raised within the local community at BBQs, activities and the Members of the Cambridge Park Lions Club present the Rifton weekly Chocolate Wheel at Westfield Penrith.

Walker to Amiah-Grace Tuakalau. Photos by Noel Rowsell The Cambridge Park Lions Club brain, either during pregnancy or shortly after was chartered in July 1979 and will celebrate 40 years supporting the local community birth.

Greg English, Chairman of the LCMF, District in 2019!

If you would like to join the Cambridge Park Lions 201N said “The (LCMF) foundation was started in 1998 and Lions in Australia have raised over crew to make a difference, and have some fun along $12,000,000 to purchase walkers of different types the way, send an email to cambridgeparklionsclub@ for children with cerebral palsy. Sydney alone has gmail.com or phone 0408 530 531.

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Cambridge Park Lions Donate Children’s Walker

17

Community Assistance Program grants assist local groups Children, young people, seniors, interaction and community people with a disability and residents connectedness. from culturally and linguistically Cr Fowler said Council diverse backgrounds are just some of recognises the valuable work the groups to benefit from Council’s of the organisations that 2018-19 Community Assistance were allocated funding, with Program (CAP). many relying on the energy, Penrith Mayor, Ross Fowler OAM enthusiasm and dedication of presented grants worth over $30,000 the volunteers and (in some for 37 separate projects at a special cases) limited staff who run presentation on 30 November, with them. each project chosen because of the “I would like to thank all Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM and Councillors Karen McKeown OAM, Robin Cook and John Thain positive contribution it would make the grant recipients for their celebrate with the recipients of Council’s 2018-19 Community Assistance Program. to the social and cultural life of our dedication and achievement • Paying It Forward Homeless Services – emergency with minimal resources for the benefit of people City. relief for homeless community members in extreme across our City,” he said.

The funded projects include: • Community Junction – reactivate neighbourhood summer weather “Council has always been proud of CAP, which • Platform Youth Services – free accredited first has for 24 years provided assistance to community centre space for gathering and reconciliation through aid training for individuals who have previously groups to run activities and projects that benefit local knowledge sharing and Aboriginal artwork creation • Empowerability Inc – co-design and create a safe experienced barriers to training and education residents.”

• St Marys North Public School – facilitator and space for people with a disability to explore their “Not only does this grants scheme help recipients Christmas excursion costs for group supporting young plan and run events and projects that benefit our sensory needs, with Men’s Shed support • Nepean Community & Neighbourhood Services people with autism to develop social skills community, it helps the organisations themselves • Thornton Community Group – establish a build the kinds of skills, resources and networks that – equipment for women’s group to give back to the community garden with a strong commitment to social enable them to grow,” Cr Fowler said. community

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

18

local news

Tanya Davies: record spending on our schools

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

he NSW Government has announced its school budget allocations for 2019, and Mulgoa MP Tanya Davies said a record $1.18 billion is being distributed to more than 2,200 public schools across NSW. Tanya Davies said NSW schools would collectively receive more than $100 million on top of last year’s record amount with schools across the Mulgoa electorate receiving more than $12 million, an increase of $832,102.

“Our schools can use the additional funds to continue to hire more teachers or administrative staff, for example, or to buy new iPads, instruments or sports equipment – whatever our school communities decide will best meet their unique learning and teaching needs.” Tanya Davies said.

Tanya Davies visited Glenmore Park High School to announce that the high school will benefit from additional RAM funding in 2019 to support a number of learning and teaching initiatives.

These initiatives include: intensive tutoring and mentoring support for senior students and students not meeting minimum standards, a wider range of resources and access for Student Leadership Programs, additional resourcing for STEAM/STEM programs and additional funding to provide for the school wide implementation of Instructional Rounds and ‘A Learning and Responding Matrix’ (ALARM).

Principal of Glenmore Park High School, Lisette Gorick highlighted the importance of RAM funding for the school.

“Increased RAM funding is vital in providing greater resourcing allowing us, in consultation with our school community, to direct

funding to innovative programs that will best engage and support each individual student to achieve best outcomes and success,” Lisette Gorick said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes said the funding, known as Resource Allocation Model (RAM) funding, gives school principals freedom to spend their allocated funds to deliver the best outcomes for their students.

“I am incredibly proud of the outstanding educational leaders in our public schools and their ability to engage students. RAM funding provides greater resources to enable them to direct funding to cater to the needs of their particular student body,” he said.

Great achievers

S

tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith presented Community Service Awards to Mr James (Jim) Devine and Mr Christopher (Chris) Hall in recognition and appreciation of their contribution to the Penrith community.

“Jim is a hardworking volunteer with the Lions Club of Emu Plains and it is my pleasure to acknowledge his work within our local community with this award,” said Stuart Ayres.

Jim has been a member of the Lions Club of Emu Plains for 5 years and runs the Youth of the Year Program as well as maintaining the website, processing the Lions Club Christmas cake orders and producing the clubs award winning newsletter.

“Jim is an inspirational member of our community and well deserving of this recognition” said Stuart Ayres.

Chris Hall has contributed to several campaigns as part of his involvement with the Cancer Advocacy Network including the Saving Life 2015 campaign which led the NSW Government to commit $76 million to

remove chemotherapy co-payments, and the I Care for Palliative Care which saw $100 million funding boost for Palliative Care.

“Chris is a dedicated volunteer for the Cancer Council NSW and it is wonderful to recognise his commitment with this award. A strong advocate in the fight for a cancer free future, Chris volunteers at the Nepean Cancer Care Centre twice a week and at Westmead Children’s Hospital in the Parent and Care Resource Centre” said Stuart Ayres.

“The Community Service Award is a way for the NSW Government to acknowledge the inspiring members within our community for their achievements and selfless service” added Stuart Ayres.

The additional funding will be provided through an increase to every school’s per-student allocation, increased funding to students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and additional support for small schools with teaching principals.

The RAM payments were introduced in 2014 as part of the NSW Government’s commitment to needs-based funding and ensures that every school receives a fair and transparent allocation of the State’s public education budget.

“Where Labor closed schools, we provide record funding.

Today’s announcement demonstrates again that only the NSW Liberals & Nationals can deliver real results for students,” Tanya Davies said.

Christmas harmony

T

here’s nothing like music to get everyone into the Christmas spirit and carols are songs that we at least know most of the words to!

Penrith Harmony, a mens accapella choir will be performing for Christmas at the Fusion Cafe, Corner of Queen and Station Streets St Marys at 11am on Tuesday 18 December.

Pop along and enjoy the magic of these beautiful voices. It’s free!

Fusion is a not for profit youth

and community organisation based in St Marys. They run programs and activities for vulnerable young people and families in western Sydney focusing on building resilient young people, stronger families and safer communities.

The Fusion Cafe is a social enterprise with the surplus funds going back into their work with the community. The Cafe is also their point of contact with the community where everyone is welcome.

20

Legends of the Nepean

Frank Ifield OAM

By Noel Rowsell

F

Frank Ifield in concert

rank Ifield OAM is already an acknowledged legend of the Music Industry and we are proud to add him to the ranks of the Legends of the Nepean.

Although currently living in Dural, Frank is a hard-working member of the Nepean Community, working as a Mentor with the Ross Hutchison Dream Team of talented young performers.

Born in Coventry, UK to Australian parents, Frank returned to Australia as a child and began his legendary music career in the local charts, regularly appearing on both Radio and Television

Shows performing popular songs, including his own compositions.

Frank moved back to the UK in 1959 and would go on to establish a fabulous international career over the next fiftytwo years.

Whilst his career is certainly more familiar to older generations, the music superstar still reaches out across the generational gap, influencing and guiding young performers making their tentative steps in the music industry.

In 1998, the Rotary Club of Galston (the organisers of the highly successful Galston Country Music Festival) agreed to support the presentation of an annual award by the Festival Patron Mr Frank Ifield.

Known as the Frank Ifield International Spur Award, the criteria for selection includes the artist’s individual style and professionalism of performance, both on and off the stage.

The winner receives the benefit of Frank’s expertise and experience in promoting Australian talent overseas.

One well-known recipient of the

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award is Penrith’s own Nicki Gillis, who is currently the General Manager of Vintage FM. Following the success of her win in 2009, Gillis toured the UK six times and also performed in Germany.

Her singles have enjoyed long runs in UK country music radio charts and her self-written song ‘Be a Star’ reached #1.

Frank’s personal statistics in the International charts tell the impressive story, with ten albums and twentyseven singles over a 52-year period, including a phenomenal forty-three Top 100’s singles rankings across Australia, the United Kingdom and the USA. Seven #1 hits across all three countries highlight the impact Frank had in the record industry.

Frank was the first UK-based performer to achieve three consecutive #1 hits on the English charts, whilst the only other performer to achieve this success was Elvis Presley.

Frank’s biggest hit single world-wide was ‘I Remember You’ which topped the charts in the UK for seven weeks and was the second-highest selling single of that year.

The song also became the seventh ‘million-selling’ single, reaching #5 in the USA and #1 and the Australian Kent Music Report.

Frank was voted onto the Australian Wall of Fame in 2003, the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007, was awarded his OAM with citation in 2009, won a MOE

Frank Ifield OAM was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Ross Hutchison.

21

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

At the Dream Team rehearsals

Award for Lifetime Achievement to the Music Industry in 2010, voted into the Coventry (UK) Wall of Fame in 2012.

Frank also appeared on Eurovision twice, finishing runner-up in 1962.

One of Frank’s biggest early dreams was to appear at the Palladium in the UK, regarded by many as the pinnacle for live performers.

Not only did he appear at the Palladium on a regular basis throughout his career, his memorable first appearance was in front of the Queen

Mother singing ‘She Taught Me To Yodel’.

Frank also appeared on the American Show Grand Ole Opry, introduced by American legend and long time hero Frank Snow.

Grand Ole Opry is an American icon and Nashville Tennessee’s #1 attraction, showcasing both country music legends and contemporary charttoppers.

Originating as a radio broadcast in 1925, Grand Ole Opry is a live

entertainment phenomenon, dedicated primarily to honouring Country music’s rich history.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people make pilgrimages to see the live shows or tune in via a wide range of media including websites and apps.

Following his appearance on the show, Frank was subsequently given the title of an ‘Honorary Citizen of Tennessee” - a feat also achieved by another Australian music legend, Smokey Dawson.

Frank hit a major hurdle in his life and his career in 1986, contracting pneumonia which both damaged his vocal chords and required surgery to remove part of a lung.

He could not perform through an extensive recovery period but is now back on stage performing to a new generation of fans and encouraging and mentoring young up-and-coming local talent.

Frank will be performing with Ross Hutchison’s Dream Team of Kate Simpson, Matthew Avery, Arena McLellan, Natasha Tatarinoff and Tamara Bentsen at Penrith Paceway Showroom on 14th-15th December.

Open Christmas Day Merry Christmas from the team at McDonald’s St Marys North

Cnr Forrester and Boronia Roads, St Marys North

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

22

local news Can your pet suffer from hay fever and allergies?

P

eople commonly suffer with hay fever and sinus problems around springtime every year.

There are a large number of antihistamines available to control symptoms of hay fever in people.

Unfortunately, there is not yet a widely available treatment to “cure” people who suffer with hay fever.

Pets can also develop seasonal allergies that occur every year around spring. Some animals may show signs of seasonal allergy at different times of year, depending on the trigger for the allergy. Commonly pollens and air-born particles contact with the skin of the pet and trigger a reaction in animals that have a hypersensitised immune system.

Pets do not show signs of sneezing and sinus troubles as commonly. Some pets will have sneezing and watery eyes, but most pets develop itchy, reactive skin as a sign of seasonal allergies.

They can scratch repetitively on their bodies, or lick all the times at their feet. Some animals with seasonal allergies will madly rub their face along the lounge chairs or on the ground. The skin around the eyes and in the ear canals can look very inflamed.

Some pets only signs of seasonal allergies are repeated ear infections at certain times of the year.

What can we do to help these pets? Treatment is recommended for pets that suffer from seasonal allergies to make them comfortable. Intense itching and skin inflammation can cause real suffering and affect quality of life for many animals. Treatment may involve a course of antihistamines for the period of time that the pet is reactive. There are some excellent

animal antihistamines, and sometimes your veterinarian may recommend human medications.

It is important not to just give antihistamines without the guidance of your Veterinarian as pets need different dosages than people.

To help reduce any further irritation on the skin it is important to prevent parasites living on your pet’s skin. The most common skin parasite for pets is fleas. There is now a convenient three-monthly flea tablet (that also prevents ticks) that can be given to control these parasites. Other parasites that may affect the skin (and in combination with seasonal allergies worsen the symptoms) include Demodectic and Sarcoptic mange. These parasites need specific treatment.

So, if you see your pet itching, scratching, rubbing or sneezing, then make an appointment with your Veterinarian to have this assessed. Whilst “cure” may not be possible, for many animals their symptoms can be controlled and they can be given back a comfortable life again.

Greencross Vets | Phone 47 313 055 Units 2 & 3/117 Coreen Ave, Penrith NSW 2750

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We wo uld lik e to wi & read sh & a sa ers a very M our loyal cl i fe & p rosper erry Christ ents ous Ne m Enjoy w Year as the ho ahead. l you al iday season l again a in 201 nd see 9.

local news

Christmas cheer Thousands of locals celebrated Christmas last weekend at The Penrith CBD Corp’s Lighting of the Christmas Tree event and the St Marys Town Centre event recently.

With special thanks to Luciano Vranich for the great pictures!

h t i r n e P

St Ma rys

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

The time is here for

25

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

26

Oh Frank Ifield, I remember yoooo-oooooo

By KeRRIE DAVIES

T

IMES have changed for young budding singing stars, and many say these days it has become much harder for young talent to “be discovered” and make it.

One local champion who has dedicated his life to helping others is Ross Hutchison, affectionately known as Rossco.

Known mostly for his charity work, radio announcing, ministries and work with horses, the abilities of this talented man would make your eyes spin!

He has had an amazing career in show business and he knows a thing or ten about how to assist someone on their journey to the top!

Following on from the success of his previous talent shows, which showcased superstars mentoring new talent, another very talented fella has decided to team up with him!

Enter Frank Ified, who blasted onto the charts in the 1960s with his unique style of yodelesque/country/rock and has remained a consistent favourite ever since.

Can you imagine what a talented duo like Rossco and Frank can do with a group of young “undiscovered” local kids with a dream?

Make sure you see the shows - over two nights this month see the ad on the next page for more details!

Photo courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

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The Dream Team Dates are Over two big entertaining nights December 14 and 15 at the Penrith Paceway Now the Cast is as follows...

Arena McLellan

Kate Simpson

Frank Ifield Matthew Avery

Natasha Tatarinoff

“

It’s all about Australian Talent

“

Tamara Bentsen

Rossco is threatening to put Himself into the Show too... So Look Out!!!

“Last June, following Local Talent Quests, it was declared that these talented youngsters should be given a chance to enhance their career and skills by being put in a specially designed Professional Show, supported by Full Time Professionals... And Boy !..

Didn’t that happen!!!... It was such a success that it has led to new shows happening on 14th & 15th December at The Penrith Paceway .. A Great Night is assured” said Rosco.

It will be another great night out full of fantastic new talent!! Brilliant comedians and superb music and dancing plus delicious food!!! A perfect night out!! (We may introduce a few further surprises)

Dinner and Show Only $65 per head - Paceway Showroom 7pm for 7.30PM Bookings Essential | Phone 4721 2620 | PENRITH PACEWAY

02 4736 4647 THEPIONEERTAVERN.COM.AU CNR MAXWELL ST & THE NORTHERN RD, PENRITH NSW 2750

We promote the responsible service of gaming and alcohol. All our advertising and promotions are not implicitly or explicitly directed at minors, excluded persons, or vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

ENTERTAINMENT

By KeRRIE DAVIES

A

NYBODY who has been there knows how great the schnitzels, the music and the general vibe of the place is, but now the Pioneer Tavern has also been recognised as the state’s number one U.G.L.Y bartender as well!

No, it is not about insulting bartenders about their physical features, “Understanding generously likeable you” is what the acronym stands for, and raising much-needed funds for the Leukemia Foundation is the aim.

Each year U.G.L.Y. bartenders across Australia help to beat blood cancer by raising money for the Leukaemia Foundation to provide its vital accommodation service.

Venue Manager Trent Pittaway said they were thrilled with the win, having raised a whopping $22,000 - a quarter of the amount raised by NSW which was $88,000.

“We love to get behind a great cause,” he said.

“The funds raised go to families dealing with leukemia that are in rural areas by providing free accommodation in major cities so they can access lifesaving treatment at major hospitals.”

“It gives them a space to call their own during the most challenging and difficult time, and relieves them of the emotional and financial stress of finding accommodation near treatment,” added Bec Passlow, the Pioneer’s U.G.L.Y host.

Family stays vary from two nights to two years. The Pioneer Tavern has been a major supporter of the event for several years now and have raised thousands of dollars with the help of Mark Geyer with auctions, weekly raffles and family fun days.

“Early next year we will begin raising funds for the Great Walk,” Trent said.

Well done!

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Pioneer Tavern takes out number one in the state

29

Bec and Trent with the trophy.

Photo: Noel Rowsell

or Book now f as tm your Chris ly Party! On s e a few tabl left!

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

30

ENTERTAINMENT

Mike’s Pantry

with Michael Creed from Thor’s Cafe Penrith

Christmas SPECIAL 2 Course Meal Deal

Ham, Turkey, Roast Vegies, Peas & Gravy Christmas Pudding w/ Brandy Custard GROUP BOOKINGS WELCOME Closed Christmas Day

Baked Salmon with roasted tomatoes and green beans Ingredients: • 150g salmon fillet • 10 cherry tomatoes (or similar size) still attached to the vine.

• 1t olive oil • 120g green beans • Salt and pepper to taste Method: • Preheat fan forced oven to 200c.

• Place the salmon fillet with the tomatoes still on the vine on a baking tray.

• Drizzle the teaspoon of olive oil over the top of the fillet and tomatoes.

• Sprinkle some salt and pepper

over the ingredients for taste.

• Place the baking tray in the oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked.

• Serve with a generous helping of steamed green beans.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

32

A year of magical family experiences at The Joan!

T

here’s something about the theatre of anticipation and unparalleled by any other entertainment.

special a thrill delight kind of

With all the time we spend on screens, our attention spans are getting shorter. But live performance brings us back to the present, offering children (and their adults) a unique opportunity

to engage in stories, music, and the enchanted world of the stage.

This year, the Joan has a Family Subscriber 3-pack available at $198; a family pass (four tickets: two adults,

two children) to whichever three shows you’d like to see. Not only will you save money, you’ll also have a great bunch of shows to look forward to throughout the year!

JOIN US FOR A YEAR OF FUN AND SURPRISES! Possum Magic | 9 & 10 April For over 30 years Mem Fox’s Possum Magic has captivated and enchanted young people. Joined by an extraordinary creative team, Monkey Baa brings to life the characters, journey and love that has made Possum Magic the mostloved and best-selling Australian picture book of all time.

Suitable for ages 3 - 8 $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

The Ugliest Duckling | 11 - 13 July Exploring the resilience, transformation and joy, Q Theatre’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling is a celebration of difference. This small scale story filled with spectacle and sound boasts a lot of heart and is suitable for the whole family.

Suitable for ages 5 - 8 $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

Spot | 8 - 10 August Spot is one of the most loved dogs in the world, and he’s coming to Australia! Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! Can Spot and his friends find them all? They might need a little help from their new friends in the audience...

Suitable for ages 18 months + $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

Bathory Begins 11 - 21 September Year 10 Art and Design teacher Mrs Bathory is suspected of being the sadistic, undead serial-killer countess Elrezebet Bathory. It’s pretty obvious to her class of seven girls - yes seven - the last remaining survivors of what the school is calling an outbreak of ‘head-lice’ but what the students of 10F know is really another murderous rampage in Bathory’s quest for eternal youth.

Suitable for ages 14+ $35 Standard | $30 Concession *Please note that this show is not eligible for the Family Subscriber 3-pack

The Young King | 13 August A naïve boy raised by goatherds is discovered to be heir to the kingdom. Treasures and privileges are laid at his feet, but at what cost to others? The achingly beautiful and tender language of Oscar Wilde joins the intimate and magical world of Slingsby. Journey in wonder, to a land of challenging choices and rich rewards.

Suitable for ages 8+ $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

Hitler’s Daughter | 30 August Did Hitler’s Daughter really exist? This award-winning show tells the story of Hitler’s Daughter through the eyes of four Australian children Mark, Ben, Anna and Tracey. Today, in an age of fake news and fact manipulation, extreme ideologies and rising nationalism, there has never been a more important and relevant time to present this work.

Suitable for ages 10 - 14 $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

Bilby’s Bluegum Melodies 6 November Featuring old-fashioned colonial folk tunes, sounds of the Australian bush, instrumental demonstrations, hands on percussion fun and music by much loved Australian composers, Bilby’s Bluegum Melodies is the perfect introduction for your little ones to the vast sonic world of piano, woodwinds and percussion, in an intimate and informal music show.

Suitable for ages 18 months+ $25 Adult | $20 Children | Family $80 | OR put this in your Subscription Pack and save.

HOW TO BOOK: Online: Bookings can be made for all performances by following the links from each event page. All events are listed on our What’s On page and can be easily sorted and filtered. Subscriptions can be booked online, in person, by mail, phone or fax. By Phone: 4723 7600 By Email: boxoffice@penrith.city

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

34

SUDOKU: MEDIUM

SOLUTIONS: 22 November EASY

HARD

SUDOKU: HARD

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

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Rehearse (8) 5 Relating to the iris of

the eye (6) 9 Attacks (8) 10 Be against (6) 12 Draws through a straw (5) 13 Blimps (9) 14 Dried grape (6) 16 Cigar (7) 19 Seeing (7) 21 A style of architecture (6) 23 Pasta (9) 25 A mendicant preacher (5) 26 Stableboy (6) 27 Thoroughly soak (8) 28 Faery (6) 29 Hated (8)

solution 22/11/18

DOWN 1 Kudos (6) 2 Companion (9) 3 Guided journeys (5) 4 A native member of a

state (7) 6 Be a delegate for (9) 7 Hindu loincloth (5) 8 Distilled wood tar (8) 11 Heroic (4) 15 Most meager (9) 17 Not reproductions (9) 18 Eludings (8) 20 Fence door (4) 21 A contorted facial

expression (7) 22 Pal (6) 24 Plays a role (5) 25 An unpleasant woman (5)

NEPEAN HISTORY

M

axwell was born in January events leading to the establishment of an 1902 at Norton Summit, South ammunition fill for Australia and St Marys Australia, the fourth of seven was chosen due to the road and rail links children to John Tomlinson Playford and that were reasonably good and land to the orchardist, and his wife Rose Eliza née north was relatively cheap and sparsely Inglis, both from South Australia. Maxwell populated, there was also a good manpower was educated at Norton Summit Public supply available in Parramatta and Sydney. and Norwood High schools. He studied The area was acquired by resumptions mining and metallurgy at the University listed in Commonwealth gazettes in three of Adelaide and qualified as a fellow in parcels during the years 1941 to 1943.

1924 of the South Australian School of Production commenced in November Mines and Industries. During 1923 he 1942 and gradually increased as more of worked at Port Pirie and Broken Hill. In the buildings were completed. Altogether 1924 he became a research metallurgist some 850 buildings comprising a complex at the Mount Lyell Mining & Railway for processing, storing explosives and Co Ltd at Queenstown in Tasmania. filling ammunition occupied an area of Promoted to mill Superintendent in 1928 504 hectares, rather more than a quarter  St Marys’ munition workers float in Sydney parade in the 1940’s. Courtesy of Penrith Library. he redesigned and rebuilt the old inefficient of the land acquired. The factory had its mill that dramatically reduced the emission own sewerage treatment works, hostels of sulphur dioxide. One bold innovation was the installation of an and canteens and was designed to cope with three shifts of up to 4,000 8-foot diameter ball mill, a giant for its time and was regarded as an persons per day and there was 132 staff and 153 waged employees, extraordinary achievement for a young man that revealed his confidence, the first order being a production of Flare Floats for the RAAF. The his brilliance in research, determination in execution and qualities of workforce built up to peak at 324 staff and 2,175 waged employees leadership with an ability to win the trust of his superiors. In March with a total of 2,499 in September 1943 including Maxwell who was 1929 he married Agnes Jessie Anderson a 20-year-old art teacher. He appointed Manager of one of the largest munition plants in Australia. was a Baptist and regular churchgoer who lived by the highest standards.

The old farmhouse and buildings of “Dunheved”, formerly the property Tall and good-looking with black curly hair, he enjoyed gardening, of Governor Philip Gidley King’s family was used by the construction photography, mountaineering, bush-walking and children. He was a and factory staff and known at that time as “The Homestead”. Late in member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy in 1934 1943 the building became derelict and was finally demolished in 1947. and wrote numerous technical papers on metallurgical subjects. He was Maxwell died in October 1943 in a private hospital in Sydney of acute appointed plant superintendent at Great Boulder Pty Gold Mines Ltd, encephalomyelitis (Encephalitis is caused by herpes and can lead to Kalgoorlie, Western Australia in February 1934 and later that year, he severe brain damage and death. Another common virus that can cause joined Wiluna Gold Mines Ltd as chief metallurgist. Because of the encephalitis is mumps). He was buried in the cemetery at Norton ore containing arsenic at Wiluna, it was found not compatible with the Summit. He was survived by his wife and their adopted daughter. His cyanide process (the common method of extracting gold) so he built a funeral was mentioned in the “News” Adelaide S.A and reads:- “Funeral smelter where lead was added to collect the gold and silver which was of Premier’s Cousin - Maxwell Ernest Playford. mine engineer and easily separated. From March 1938 he was assistant general manager of cousin of the Premier (Mr Playford), was buried at Norton Summit Mount Morgan Ltd, Queensland where he again improved metallurgical cemetery. He died in Sydney last Sunday at the age of 41. At the time performance. In 1941 he was hoping to contribute more directly of his death he was in charge of one of the largest munitions works to the war effort when he joined the Commonwealth Department of in Australia. The funeral was attended by the Premier and members of Munitions. After working for the Directorate of Explosives Supply in the Playford family and representatives of the Ministry of Munitions, Melbourne for a short time he was sent to England and America to learn mining companies with which Mr Playford had been associated and the the latest methods of production. Australia’s defense needs were on School of Mines and the Australasian Institute of Mining & Metallurgy”. low priority in the early 1930’s with the Great War of 1914-1918 at an His estate was sworn for probate at £6,988. end. A rifle factory established by Lord Kitchener, Britain’s Secretary Sources: G. Blainey - The Peaks of Lyell (Melb, 1954), Australasian of State for War, had been opened in Lithgow in 1912 and there was Institute of Mining and Metallurgy - Proceedings, Sept-Dec 1943, p some manufacture of ammunition in factories like Maribyrnong in xlii, Advertiser (Adelaide), 12 Oct 1943, Book by me “The St Marys’ Melbourne, but these establishments had been left to run down. The Munitions Story”. Lyn Forde – President/Research Officer of St Marys first Menzies’ Government came into power in 1939 and set in place & District Historical Society Inc.

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Maxwell Ernest Playford and the St Marys ADI

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

36

local news

Improving perinatal mental health care

G

roundbreaking Australian research released has highlighted the potential for digital mental health screenings to be used to assist in identifying new and expecting mothers who may need additional mental health care.

The Perinatal Integrated Psychosocial Assessment (PIPA) study evaluated the effectiveness of a new online psychosocial self-assessment and electronic clinician aids and compared it to the current method of face-to-face assessment.

Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies joined Professor Marie-Paule Austin, the architect of best practice perinatal mental health care in Australia, and Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith to launch the study at Sydney’s Royal Hospital for Women.

“The PIPA study shows that this new approach is effective in quickly detecting women in need of additional care. The online tools also helped midwives and health professionals to better manage referrals and follow up care when it was needed,” Mrs Davies said.

“We know it is so important that expectant parents are screened for mental health and psychosocial needs both antenatally and postnatally, and the study will be invaluable in helping Government consider how to improve our existing universal screenings in future.”

The research, led by Professor Austin, involved interviews with 25 midwives and 1212 women, and reviewed data over several years from more than 6,800 women.

“This new system improved on the current process by including clinical questions into a

digitalised approach that was trialled in a real maternity setting,” Professor Austin said.

“Untreated perinatal anxiety and depression can have an enduring negative impact on the woman, her developing infant, and her partner and family, so it’s important we refine methods to improve screening and referral processes.”

Mr Notley-Smith said he was delighted at the impact the study is already making in the care of

local women.

“Around one in 10 women experience clinical depression or anxiety in the perinatal period, and I’m proud that here at the Royal Hospital for Women we are leading the way in improving care for expectant and new mothers,” Mr Notley-Smith said.

The full findings of the research report will be released in early 2019.

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

38

FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS

Don’t get caught in the christmas debt trap With Steve Beard Select Mortgage Broker

T

he next month or so will see most of us spend big. Retailers rely on a large increase in sales to make their profits. Unfortunately, most of us will be using credit to buy lots of “stuff”. We want to buy presents to adorn our loved ones with, plus all the food and celebrations, plus a nice holiday if we can get some time off work.

All these expenses usually add up to a large sum, so you have a few choices to make. Do you only try to use your savings to pay for all these expenses or will the credit cards and redraw on your home loan get a massive work out. Will you increase your debt for short term gain with long term pain!

Ideally, we should be using our savings for most of these big expenses of course. That’s because you listened to my previous advice and prepared a budget that allowed you to put some money away every pay day to cater for your Chrissy splurge.

Or you read one of my previous articles that gave you the inspiration to pay extra into your home loan each pay day (as this is a great way of forced savings) in order to be able to redraw those

additional repayments at this time of the year (and it also saved you a heap of interest along the way).

Easier said than done I hear you all say!

If those plans may not have quite worked out as you had hoped, there is always our old “friend” the credit cards that we can rely on to get us through the shopping nightmares and get you deeper into debt.

You may be noticing a bit of sarcasm by now as this is the scenario for too many of us relying on too much debt to pay our way over the festive season.

Then we come back from holidays to a mountain of debt and then spend all 2019 trying to pay it all off. Happy New Year! Well, there may be a better way.

Limit your spending to the amount of savings and extra home loan repayments that you are comfortable in accessing. If that is only a small amount, then have a meeting with your loved ones and explain the budget is tight and limit presents to affordable presents.

ONLY BUY GIFTS THAT PEOPLE ACTUALLY WANT OR NEED. Buying people “stuff” for the sake of it and just for the “JOY OF GIVING” which is nice if you have the savings and can afford it. But if you have

SELECT MORTGAGE FINANCE

to rack up debt to achieve your desires, then it’s time you gave yourself the best present and avoid setting yourself (and your family) up for a pile of debt that will slow you down all next year and the year after and the year after that maybe.

Your kids need to learn that spending should be in line with the family incomes, expenses and savings and not just piled up on plastic like some magic money tree in some fantasy world. That lesson is worth a million dollars as most families don’t discuss money at all.

According to finder.com.au and the RBA, the average revolving credit card debt per card is ever increasing is now $3,211. Around 20 percent of us have 3 or more credit cards so that adds up around $10,000 per person for a lot of us. How about you put away the credit cards this Christmas and just try to limit your spending to what you have saved up for this time. After all, time spent with family and friends is much better than just spending money on them.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on 4739 4500, 0403 166207 or beards@selectgrp.com.au if you what to discuss your situation, any financial matters or have any Home Finance questions that I can assist you with.

Phone: 4739 4500 Mobile: 0403 166 207 Email: beards@selectgrp.com.au Award winning mortgage broker

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SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

F

ans of television sit-coms will quickly identify with the notion of the Odd Couple, following two separate series of the same name featuring Tony Randall and Jack Klugman (197075) and Matthew Perry and Thomas Lennon (2015-17).

The premise of those shows featured two disparate characters living in a New York apartment, one fussy and neurotic, the other slovenly and easygoing.

Wallacia Golf Club has it’s own version of the odd couple in regular golfing parters Steve Francis and Steve Small, although the differences in these two is primarily on appearances.

Francis stands at 188cm (6’2”) tall and has the look of a mature-aged surfer, whilst Small stands at just 173cm (5’8”) and has the look of a smartly-dressed accountant.

The outwardly unlikely pair have however been golfing partners at Wallacia for the past ten years and are both currently playing off a 14 handicap.

Both players have represented Wallacia GC in Pennants and the Western Sydney Region Veteran

Golfers Association, in addition to weekly competitions at the westernSydney course.

Silver Surfer Francis said “I have been working for the Department of Defence at the RAAF Base Richmond as a public servant for 45 years”.

“I started playing social golf ‘Kingswood 9-holers’ in the late 80’s, then joined Penrith Panthers social club where I won two Club Championships – both scratch and net in the 90’s”.

“I’ve also played in the Qantas Global Classic - which was run by Qantas for Department of Defence employees for three years - and was runner-up one year” said Francis.

“I joined Wallacia GC in the 90’s and when Panthers took over, I went to Katoomba for four years”.

“I played in their Pennants team, which played the mountain (Blue Mountains) courses in B grade and I also took out the 4BBB Stroke winner for two years”.

Francis subsequently returned to Wallacia Panthers, winning the Match Play Championships in 2009, 2011 and 2012, whilst being runner-up in 2013.

Francis also represented Wallacia GC in Master’s Pennants in 2017 and 2018, T.L. Warren Trophy Pennants and competes in the WSRVGA InterClub competition, finishing runner-up

in the Player of the Year rankings this year.

Small said “I started playing at Wallacia GC in late 70’s socially, then joined the club as a player in early 80’s”.

“I took up an offer of ‘permanent golfer for $1,000 dollars’ around 1987, which has proved a great move from then till now”.

“I have won some Monthly Medals in both B and C Grade and also made the Championships in both grades but not won”.

“My best achievement is I have two ‘hole-in-ones’ in competition at Wallacia and won two sets of golf clubs” said Small.

“My last job (of 21 years) was at Dulux Paints Padstow but I was retrenched just over two years ago”.

“I decided to retire, travel and play more golf and I started playing alongside Steve Francis about ten years ago in Saturday comps”.

“We also play Vets (Veteran Golf) together, Warren & Gibson Shield (Pennants) for around five years and this year we both played Masters Pennants, finishing first in our Division”.

“We (Steve Francis and I) have a good partnership and enjoy each others company, the more crap we put on each other the better we play”.

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Wallacia Golf Club’s Odd Couple

Wallacia GC members Steve Francis and Steve Small. Photo courtesy of Steve Small.

“Playing in these events and at other courses meeting other golfers is wonderful” said Small.

“Wallacia is a great club to play at and the staff and golfers are warm and friendly”.

“We (Steve Francis and I) are early morning starters, normally in the first group off, which also gives us time for home chores, as I have two daughters and now seven grandchildren and time is limited with them”.

Penrith host AWF yearend live Pro-Wrestling

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Australasian Wrestling Federation (AWF) comes to Penrith PCYC on Saturday 15th of December for a two hour plus Live Professional Wrestling event suitable for all ages featuring some of the premier wrestling athletes from around Australia.

Greg Bownds, the AWF promoter spoke about the history of the organisation and what is expected in their AWF Year End Extravaganza.

“The Australasian Wrestling Federation has held events across Australia since 1999. AWF is very much looking forward to climaxing 2018 with a great event at Penrith PCYC, and then marching strong into our 20-year celebration events in 2019,” he said.

“While the action is physical, the drama and excitement is a great escape for those in attendance, and supporters can cheer their favourites and boo the villains, interact with the wrestlers during the show, and meet many of the wrestlers after the bouts.”

The event will pay tribute to the late AWF referee OJ Fitzpatrick, with a mini tournament taking place in his name, and will also send off our long serving ring announcer Duke Kieran Burns. It will be the climax of the AWF calendar and final event for 2018.

Greg spoke about what the AWF plans for the Penrith community in 2019 and how the show is a great outing for families coming up to Christmas.

“AWF runs shows all year around in Australia and comes regularly to Penrith. If our Year End Extravaganza 2019 event is well received AWF plans to run four more events in Penrith in 2019,” he said.

“On the Year End Extravaganza event there will be over 20 wrestlers competing on the night from around Australia.

“AWF Pro-Wrestling is such a great spectacle for

so many reasons. It is a live up close and personal fan experience.

“The AWF Year End Extravaganza aims to be a great family outing in the lead up before Christmas.

We have made general tickets for kids under 12 just $10 so can be affordable entertainment for young families.”

Greg also mentioned that the AWF would love to see many local fans new and old in attendance to their end of year show, as it will be one not to be missed.

“AWF would like to add that we hope that many local Penrith area fans will come along to the 15 December Penrith PCYC event with family and

39

friends, spread the word to others, and help grow our show in the region even more so the building can be at capacity and make for a better experience for all,” he said.

“Without fan support there will be no future shows, and the PCYC will also lose regular revenue from our events.

“So we invite first time supporters and great supporters who have experienced the show in the past to make an effort to attend AWF on 15 December, as we promise it is going to be an excellent in ring wrestling event that will deliver over two hours of action and entertainment that will make for a fun night out for all in attendance and will likely make some fond memories! AWF - Awesome Wrestling Forever!”

Be at Penrith PCYC live to see the colourful and diverse characters of AWF thrill and entertain with skilful wrestling, back and forth banter, interesting storylines and intense rivalries all aimed at providing an exciting and memorable fan friendly live wrestling event experience. Limited seating is available, so book early to be part of Sydney’s most fun interactive live wrestling night out!

What: AWF Year End Extravaganza When: Saturday 15 December, 2018 – Doors 6:00pm, Belltime 6:30pm Where: Penrith PCYC, 100 High St, Penrith, NSW Tickets: $30 Ringside, $20 General Adult, General Kids Under 12 Pre-sale tickets available at http://www. awfwrestling.com.au/item/196/AWF+Year+End+Ex travaganza+2018+Tickets.htm Merchandise, Snacks and Drinks available at the venue AWF Website: www.awfwrestling.com.au AWF Facebook: www.facebook.com/ AustralasianWrestlingFederation

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

40

SPORT

PVSF Junior Sportsperson Award

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Hayley Barsby from St Clair the Junior Sportsperson Award for the month of November for her amazing development and skill in Netball.

Hayley has been playing netball for 12 years and recently competed in the Open Nationals for NSW and was selected to represent Australia in Indoor Netball for the under 21’s Australian team. Hayley currently

plays Netball for Penrith and Indoor Netball for NSW. Hayley spoke about how she felt when she received the award and why she loves netball.

“I am very grateful to be nominated for the award and very surprised and honoured to receive this award,” she said.

“I love the friendships I have made throughout the years and travelling with my team to different places.”

Hayley has been able to develop her skills in Netball significantly since she began playing at the age of 4-years-old. This year has been the

most successful for Hayley to date and she is hoping that her achievements continue into next year and beyond.

Hayley also spoke about her training for Netball and her greatest achievement thus far.

“My best achievement this year was making the Australian Under 21’s Indoor Netball team,” she said.

“When my season is at its peak I can be training up to four times a week and can play up to twice a week.

“I’m not currently sure what my plans for the future are but I’m going to continue playing netball and see where that goes.”

We would like to congratulate Hayley on her award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Netball for the future.

PVSF Senior Sport Star Award

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Geordie McColl from South Penrith the Senior Sport Star Award for the month of November for his amazing development and skill in Gymnastics.

Geordie is a gymnast who has only been participating in the sport for six years. He started competing in 2013 and quickly progressed through the junior levels with a podium finish in all three levels that he competed in. From 2013 to September 2016 Geordie trained at Penrith YMCA but unfortunately the boys program was shut down and he now trains at Sydney Gymnastics Centre at Rooty Hill.

Geordie spoke about how he felt to be nominated for the award and what gymnastics has offered him since he began over six years ago.

“I am very pleased to have been nominated as Gymnastics is not usually a very high-profile sport. It is

a great feeling to see my hard work being recognised,” he said.

“I love the feeling of achieving new skills. I love the opportunities gymnastics has given me, the friendships made and the strength it has given me both physically and mentally.”

In 2017 Geordie was NSW state champion for level seven and was selected to represent NSW

at the Australian Gymnastics Championships where he finished second overall and a silver on vault. In 2018 he finished in second position at both State and National championships for level eight. He also got gold on floor, silver on vault and bronze on parallel bars and was selected to represent Australia at the New Zealand National championships which were held in October 2018. He

finished fourth overall with a gold medal on rings and a silver medal on vault.

Geordie also spoke about his intense training resume and his plans for the future in the sport.

“I train over 20 hours per week for my sport which involves both morning and afternoon sessions as well as Saturdays. On the days I am not training, I coach gymnastics,” he said.

“Receiving this award makes me happy as it enables me to show the people of Penrith a little bit about what gymnastics is really about.

“I plan on continuing gymnastics for as long as I can, and hopefully being able to represent Australia on many more occasions. I also look forward to bettering my skills and passing on my knowledge and love of the sport to younger gymnasts.”

We would like to congratulate Geordie on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue striding for success in Gymnastics for the future.

PVSF Sky Encouragement Award

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Penrith Valley Sports Foundation has awarded Elijah Eagleton from St Marys the Sky Encouragement Award for the month of November for his amazing development and skill in Hockey.

Elijah’s main sports are Field Hockey and Indoor Hockey.

However, Elijah also plays soccer and does Little Athletics through the summer. Elijah plays outdoor hockey for Emu Plains Hockey Club in the Nepean Hockey Association and earlier in the year he represented Nepean at the Hockey NSW Under 13’s State Championships where he helped his team to a division 4 title win. Elijah recently participated at the Hockey NSW Under 13’s

Indoor State Championships held in Orange representing the Nepean Hockey Association. Elijah scored an incredible three goals for a 9-yearold playing against mainly 12 and 13-year-olds helping his team to a third-place finish in division 3.

Elijah spoke about how it’s good to see hockey getting recognised and what he enjoys most about the sport.

“I am extremely proud to receive the award because hockey is not a common sport like soccer or football, if people get to watch little kids play hockey well it might encourage others to play it,” he said.

“I love the sport because you get to play with other strong people and learn more skills, get fit and it feels like what I am meant to do.”

Elijah shows tremendous promise

and wonderful sportsmanship in all his sports. He has developed great skills through his six years of playing hockey and has a fantastic work ethic.

His enthusiasm for the game is first rate. Most weeks through winter he plays his age group (under 11’s) and also fills in for the under 13’s and under 16’s teams. Elijah is often the first player to run over to other players to shake hands after games and is always looking for how he can help his teammates become better players.

Elijah also spoke about how often he is involved with the sport weekly and how he hopes to help others in the future.

“Through Winter I play outdoor field hockey and train on a Tuesday night and play on Thursday and Friday nights for under 11’s, 13’s and

16’s. In Summer I play indoor hockey on a small court on Wednesday nights every week,” he said.

“I hope in the future I can become a more skilful player and trainer to help others to improve on their skills and allow them to have fun while playing.”

We would like to congratulate Elijah on his award from Penrith Valley Sports Foundation and to continue his incredible dedication and sportsmanship in all sports.

SPORT

I

When is the best time to specialise?

n a recent column I addressed the issues surrounding early specialisation and the negative consequences it can cause. I am now going to expand on the issue of specialisation and look at the optimal time to consider it after the development and sampling phase from 6 to 15 years of age.

Athletes who are exposed to an enjoyable sporting experience in a variety of different sports and environments with different coaches and team mates will be ready for specialisation at an earlier age. This does not mean we should push young athletes into playing multiple sports in short periods of time to expedite the process, we let this process take its natural course and the athlete will more often than not exhibit signs which tell you when it is time to focus and specialise on one particular sport.

This timing is critical and is suggested to always be after the age of 15 years due to both the physical changes during puberty in both genders which can affect their ability to become successful and elite in a particular sport and also to give the athlete ample time to sample and experience a variety of sports.

Studies show that athletes who associate fun and enjoyment with sports are more likely to continue

to participate into their teenage and adult years.

This relaxed approach creates a well-rounded and balanced athlete best prepared to narrow their focus into one particular sport after having a long and sustained period of mixed sports and environments during their youth sports development.

Studies also clearly show that athletes who specialise early when compared with those whom specialise late are not as successful in their progression into the elite levels of their chosen sport and overall their performance is of a lower standard compared to the athletes who specialise later as more balanced athletes with a multifaceted experience base to draw on.

The most important element in this argument which is often overlooked is the fact that to narrow a young mind and specialise in one sport is a huge challenge from a mental perspective. Young athletes need to be constantly stimulated and challenged mentally, and placing them in multiple sports and different environments under the tutelage of various coaches will ensure they are always having to think their way through situations to problem solve in order to succeed within each sport. To narrow their focus onto one sport will often turn that mental

Wests Harold Matthews Coach Fifth and Last NRL Podcast b.shepperd@hotmail.com

challenge and stimulation into boredom and mental fatigue which will begin the process of resentment and a lack of enjoyment within their chosen sport.

The most important aspects we must consider and address are that athletes need to experience a variety of sports. As a general rule it is always best to specialise late rather than early. And we need to look at the long term development of athletes in order to give them the best chance to succeed at the elite level of their chosen sport. We need to ensure as coaches we are producing players who can make intelligent decisions and problem solve while under pressure and fatigue. Junior coaches should aim to educate their players to have the ability to selfcoach during games and difficult aspects within their sport, not to produce one dimensional robots.

In the coming weeks I will address both long term athlete development and also the notion that coaches should stop trying to produce robots and teach their players to think for themselves.

I would like to wish all readers of Nepean News a safe and happy Christmas and New Year period.

Thankyou for your loyal support of ‘Coaches Corner’ and I look forward to another fantastic year in 2019!

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Glenmore phantoms score local sport funding

By CONNER LOWE

G

lenmore Phantoms Softball Club is the proud recipient of new sporting uniforms thanks to a local sporting grant by the NSW Government aimed at increasing access to sport.

Member for Mulgoa Tanya Davies visited the Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club to unveil the new purple Phantom uniforms, funded by the Local Sport Grant Program in 201718.

The Glenmore Phantoms Softball Club was successful for the $4,590 grant as part of the Sport Access Grant, which seeks to overcome the costs associated with sport which can be a barrier to participation.

“Sport is a vital part of the Glenmore Park community,” Tanya Davies said.

“These grants provide essential funds to help our local clubs increase participation in sport and active recreation, which contributes to improved social, health and cultural outcomes.”

“It is a key priority of the NSW government that everyone has the opportunity to take part in local sport.”

Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres congratulated Local Sport Grant recipients and said the NSW

Government was proud to support a program which improved community health and encouraged participation in sport and recreation.

“Tackling childhood obesity and increasing regular and on-going participation in sport and active recreation for people of all ages is

a NSW Government priority,” Mr Ayres said.

This program aims to increase regular and on-going participation opportunities in sport and active recreation, address barriers to participation in sport and assist sport clubs in providing quality

service.

The next round of successful Local Sports Grants for 2018-19 will be announced in the coming weeks.

For further information on the Local Sport Grants Program visit: https://sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants/ localsport

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

Coach’s Corner

Brock Shepperd

41

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

42

SPORT

Leonay Golf Club announce club champions

By Noel Rowsell

L

eonay GC held it’s Presentation N i g h t during November, acknowledging the outstanding performances of members during the calendar year.

Long-hitting David Moore had been in impressive form during 2018, particularly during the second half of the year and played outstandingly during the Club Championships to finish as Club Champion.

The full list of Club Championships award winners for the year are as follows: A GRADE: Champion David Moore 277, Runner-up Andrew Moon 288; Nett Winner David Moore 265.

B GRADE: Champion - Peter McFarlane 318; Runner-Up Tony Tnokoski 318; Nett Winner Peter McFarlane 266 c/b.

C GRADE: Champion - Jarrod Fil 341; Runner-Up Terry East 355; Nett Winner Jarrod Fil 257.

JOE HARSHAM TROPHY (Best Nett Score over all Grades): Jarrod Fil 257 VETERANS: Champion – Wayne Worthy 291 c/b; Nett Winner Peter McFarlane 266 FOURSOMES DIVISION ONE: Adrian Kuipers / Ben McArdle 144; Runners-Up Daniel Worthy / Kris Zvirbulis 152; Nett Winners Mark Cain / Bruce Grant 136.

FOURSOMES DIVISION ONE MATCH PLAY: Champions – Daniel Worthy / Kris Zvirbulis; Runners-Up David Moore / James Markham.

FOURSOMES DIVISION TWO: Champions – Ian Gribble / Allan Smith 178; Runners-Up Ian

Action from the Four-Man Ambrose Christmas Event at Leonay GC. Photos courtesy of Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Hogg / Michael McCormick 180; Nett Winners Anthony Best / George Thompson 130.

FOURSOMES DIVISION TWO MATCH PLAY: Champions - Ian Gribble/Allan Smith; Runners-Up Cameron McAliney / Daniel King MIXED FOURSOMES: Champions – Bruce Grant / Judith Knox 165; Runners-Up Laurie Cupples / Lynne Cupples 171; Nett Winners Bruce Grant / Judith Knox 140; Runners-Up Andy Brockbank / Julie Brockbank 142.

Other major event winners were: DON WATSON TROPHY – CLUB HANDICAP MATCH

PLAY: Winner – Peter Fowler, Runner-Up Scott White MEDAL OF MEDALS: John Lyons.

LAST MAN STANDING: Winner John Pridans; Runner-Up Peter Homan.

Eighty-two players teed off at Leonay GC on 19th November for the Annual Four-Man Ambrose and Christmas Party.

The winning team of Richard Olencewicz, John Milton, John Schneider and Terry East shot a fabulous six-under par score of 61 (nett 50 7/8) ahead of runners-up Peter McFarlane, Tom Davies, Stephen

Wright and Roy Maunders with 62 (nett 51 ½).

The Medley winners were Garry Smith, Jennifer Smith, Bob Chruszcz and Rhonda Chruszcz with a net 52¾) ahead of Andy Heaton, Herta Eisbacher, John Hope and Gordon Aikenwith 53 ¾ Nearest the Pin prizes went to Julie Sutcliffe and Hugh Renny.

The Christmas Party was also the occasion to announce the winners of the ‘Veterans Point Score Challenge’, in both the Men’s and Ladies divisions.

Men: Ron Thomas 1st, Don Holland 2nd; Ladies: Clarice Mathias 1st, Annette Scheiler 2nd.

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SPORT @TheRiffMarn

PENRITH LOOK TO AVOID A THREE-PEAT OF LOSSES The summer Panthers face their moment of truth this Saturday against Steve Smith’s Sutherland side.

A win over Sutherland will consolidate their position in the top six, but having their second game in a row last round to Eastern Suburbs, a loss on home turf this Saturday could leave the early-season front runners outside the top six for the first time this season.

Penrith won the toss and disappointed the majority of the 500-strong crowd on hand to witness Steve Smith’s first game at Howell Oval in quite a considerable period of time, by electing to bat first.

Sutherland, who were without bowling all-rounder Ben Dwarshuis and spinner Daniel Fallins for last Saturday’s play, saw Smith utilised as their lead spin bowling option but the leg-spinner failed to take a wicket in 22 overs, conceding 95 runs in the process.

The Black Cats were in trouble early, having slumped to 5/108, before the inform Tyran Liddiard, overcame a late overnight flight back from Hobart, to post his highest score in any grade (95) and Michael Collins (60) enabled the home side to post a respectable total of 316 all out, with Sutherland 0/20 in reply at stumps.

Smith says whilst Liddiard and Collins, who for the second time in three innings put on a century seventh-wicket partnership, were at the crease, he was hopeful of setting Sutherland a mid-300 target, but was denied by another lowerorder collapse (4/38).

“We went through some stages where we lost wickets in clumps which isn’t ideal but we managed to fight our way to 316,” Smith replied.

“Tyran batted really well again, just missing out on his maiden hundred of his grade career but I’m sure it isn’t too far away.

“Michael Collins also batted really well and together, they batted really well to put on that partnership to get us up there.

“I did sort of get my hopes up for a really nice total of somewhere in the mid 300’s which would have been ideal given Sutherland are a pretty strong batting unit.

“But if we bowl well on the second day

and take all our chances, I’m confident we’ll be in a good position to win.”

With a two-day game to come against Wests before breaking for Christmas, the Black Cats are looking for 6 wins 2 losses.

The predicament against Sutherland comes after losing their two-day game last Saturday week at Waverley Oval, where on a good batting track, Eastern Suburbs’ big guns with the bat, Peter Nevill (111), Sam Robson (68) and Baxter Holt (61*) capitalised on the early work of their night watchmen, despite being 5/81 at one point.

Michael Collins 3/79, Luke Hodges 2/49 and skipper Ryan Smith 2/72 were the pick of the bowlers.

Favourable results elsewhere sees the Black Cats positioned fourth on the ladder but remain just two points shy of a share of top spot.

Smith says that there was little more his team could have done, but concedes the game was probably won and lost on day one when his side lost 5/21 to be all out for 295.

“We probably did leave a few runs out there on the first week, but they batted really well to chase down the 295,” Smith told Nepean News.

“We didn’t do too much wrong. We bowled and fielded really positively all day but didn’t get any chances or rub of the green and that’s just the way cricket can be sometimes.

“The partnership between Nevill and Robson took the game away from us.”

Smith also defended his team’s number 4-6 bowlers, who continue to struggle taking wickets.

“I thought Trent and Kaine bowled really well too. Kaine is on the fringe at the moment but every chance he is getting he certainly puts his hand up,” Smith responded.

“I thought he bowled really well but the game situation didn’t really allow him to bowl as much as he probably should of.

“He’s a hard worker and that’s what we love at the club, while Trent’s obviously still learning his trade and

Penrith will be missing two of it’s bright talents this weekend with both Henry Railz (ACT / NSW Country) and Trent Weir (NSW Metro) both in Adelaide until potentially December 13, for the U19’s National Championships.

It’s been a quiet start to the championships for both players with Railz scoring just 4 with the bat and conceding 0/14 off 3 overs, while Weir missed selection for the opening game.

Steve Smith spent plenty of time bowling at Howell Oval last Saturday.

Credit: Michael Gibson.

finding his rhythm at this level.

“It was pretty flat wicket, it wasn’t turning for him and it was pretty nice to bat on.”

With Steve Smith set to bat at 3, this Saturday, Penrith skipper Ryan Smith says it wouldn’t surprise if the crowd was even bigger this week, with hopes of at least 1,000 fans turning up.

Whilst admitting the former Australian skipper’s first appearance at Howell Oval for some time is a timely boost for local cricket, the Panthers captain hopes the locals will get behind their team overall.

“I’m sure this week, the crowd will be there in numbers as they realise Steve will be batting this time,” Smith said.

“It will be a strange feeling given most of the crowd will be there to support Steve.

“Smith’s obviously a class player for over ten years now and everyone’s looking forward not just the challenge of playing against him but the whole Sutherland side who are a pretty good outfit.

“We have a lot of junior support at the club and they will be supporting us as a whole but also interested in how Smith plays his game as well.

“It will definitely be one of the bigger days out at Howell Oval but hopefully he won’t be out for there for too long.

“We’ll turn up and play our game and do what we have to do.”

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

BEHIND THE STUMPS

with Stew Moses

43

With results over the past fortnight, the Black Cats remain in third spot on the club championship.

Round 6 2s (9th): Penrith 8/184 (A Bayliss 61) def. Easts 178 3s (15th): Penrith 88 and 6/218 (L Coad 88*, N Thornton 59) def. by Easts 8/175 (dec).

4s (10th): Penrith 4/279 (L Doddrell 102, LP O’Hare 90) def. Easts 8/278 dec (B Tracey 3/92) 5s (5th): Penrith 186 def. Easts 70 (B Vella 4/15, D Dent 3/23) and 7/111 (D Myburgh-Sisam 3/34) Round 7 (Day 1) 2s: Sutherland 324 (K Balgowan 4/69) v Penrith 0/12 3s: Penrith 6/313 (J Watson 114, J New 113) v Sutherland 4s: Penrith 7/345 (P Gregersen 105*, Z Rizzo 53) v Sutherland 5s: Penrith 219 (B Monro 88) v Sutherland 0/9 We wish Jona Sammut all the best after the talented batsmen has once again put his cricket career on hold, as he continues to deal with personal issues.

In some better news for the club, Chris Withers returned from an ankle injury to play first grade last weekend.

Catch us this Sunday on Hawkesbury Radio’s livestream for all the T20 semi-final action against Bankstown at Howell Oval from 2pm. #LTC

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Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

44

SPORT

Penrith’s Henry Railz on track for future First Grade debut

By STEWART MOSES

@TheRiffMarn

Y

oung Dubbo all-rounder Henry Railz is certainly living up to the optimism Penrith officials have held since beating several other Sydney grade clubs for his services.

Despite juggling the demands of the HSC as well as making an eight hour round trip every week just to play for the Summer Panthers, there’s been enough there in the U19s ACT / NSW Country all-rounder Railz’s performances to date to suggest a first grade call up isn’t too far away.

Having debuted at the start of the season in third grade, Railz’s encouraging performances with both bat and ball have caught the eye of the Penrith selectors with his elevation to second grade as well as recent call ups into the first grade T20 extended squad.

As plays gets under way in the National Under 19 championships, Railz says that Penrith’s determined approach to sign the youngster before the start of the season, was a key factor in rejecting offers from other Sydney clubs.

“I had a few other clubs talk to me

Henry Railz (right) with Penrith president Paul Goldsmith. Photo supplied.

and I reached out to few others as well to gauge their interest, but I’m lucky that I’ve ended up here at Penrith,” Railz told the Nepean News.

“Penrith has those big country vibes and plus I knew a few blokes, a few familiar faces and they were keen for me to come here which made it easier for me too. “(Plus) Dave Taylor is from Dubbo originally and my coaches here knew him and I’ve also been talking to Butts

a lot (Warren Buttigieg).

“He was keen to get me down here so they made something happen which is really good.

Railz, who will make the permanent move to Penrith in January, says he is glad he made the decision to juggle those HSC studies in Dubbo along with playing for Penrith on the weekend.

“It’s been an interesting transition.

Cricket has definitely been a good standard,” Railz responded.

“At home I usually only get to play club cricket and play rep cricket every few weeks.

“But here it’s rep standard all the time which is pretty good for my cricket.

Having scored nearly 250 runs as well as taking 17 wickets in all forms of cricket for the club, Railz added that he still prefers batting to bowling despite the improvements made to that side of his game, as he admits to still being a late bloomer to the sport.

“Last couple of years I’ve grown a bit physically and gotten a lot stronger so bowling has really sprung on me but I still prefer to bat.

“However the good thing is I guess is that if I miss out with the bat I can bowl and if I miss out with the ball I can bat.

“I played in junior cricket carnivals here and there.

“I didn’t really hit my peak until I was lucky enough to get picked in the schoolboys team in U15’s and it grew from there, getting picked in the country side (U17s and U19s ACT / NSW Country).”

There has been growing talk as to whether Penrith’s first grade outfit could solidify their place in the top six by shoring up their lower order batting with the inclusion of the blonde allrounder.

Lower-order batting collapses in Penrith’s last two grade games against Eastern Suburbs and Sutherland, have added weight to this suggestion.

But Railz himself says that while he feels he can take that next step and play in the top grade if given the chance, he feels he needs to find greater consistency to his game first, particularly with his batting.

“I just want to perform as an allrounder really but I think I’m good enough to play wherever I’m asked to play,” Railz declared.

“It’s been good so far. My bowling’s been pretty average (in that) it’s where I expected it to be, but I haven’t quite got as many runs as I’ve hoped to.

“I just need to get some runs under my belt and have both facets of my game firing to be fully valuable to the side and I’ll just see where that takes me from there.”

Renaissance with T20 cricket continues for Penrith in 2018-19

By STEWART MOSES

T

@TheRiffMarn

he Penrith Cricket Club will be hoping to convert early success in their respective men’s and women’s T20 competitions in the coming weeks, with the men finishing their regular season undefeated and on top of their conference after four rounds, while the women are sitting in second position after six games played.

The last fortnight has seen the summer Panthers rack up three convincing wins over Sydney University, Fairfield-Liverpool and Hawkesbury to take top spot ahead of Campbelltown-Camden on quotient and will host Bankstown this Sunday from 2:30pm at Howell Oval.

In the first of two games played at Howell Oval, last Sunday week, Penrith restricted Sydney University to just 7/124 with Lalor 2/30, Williams 1/13, Hodges 1/16, Weir 1/25 and Smith 1/11 all contributing.

Penrith reached the total in just 10.3 overs for the loss of just two wickets, with the runs evenly shared between Ryan Gibson 38 (17), Ryan Hackney 33* (21), Cameron Weir 30* (14) and John Di Bartolo 25 (11).

Penrith then opted to bat first in the afternoon game against FairfieldLiverpool, scoring an imposing 9/180 with Gibson top scoring with 61 (33) and ably supported by Josh Lalor 30

(18) and Brent Williams 27 (21).

Fairfield in response were restricted to 9/131 with Smith taking 3/15, while T Weir and Hodges (each 1/17), Williams 1/23 and Lalor 1/32 all playing their part with the ball.

Then last Sunday, Penrith, already missing Trent Weir and Henry Railz (both rep duties) overcame a horror run of injuries both before and during the game to comprehensively defeat Hawkesbury by 48 runs at Bensons’ Lane.

Josh Lalor (cut fingers following a freak gardening injury the previous day) and Ryan Hackney (dislocated elbow resulting from a touch football mishap during warmups) were ruled out pre-game, replaced by Ryan Fletcher and Brent Atherton respectively, while Luke Hodges is in some doubt for this weekend, after splitting the webbing on his non-bowling hand that later required stitches.

Penrith won the toss and batted first, scoring 6/170 with Di Bartolo top-scoring with 53 (32), with support from Atherton 38 no (30) and Williams 34 (28).

Despite former Australian test batsman, Peter Forrest’s lone hand of 69 (49), Penrith won easily with M Collins 3/21, B Williams 2/21, Hodges 1/10, Smith 1/20 & Withers 1/25 all doing the job with the ball.

A trip to the SCG the following Sunday, awaits the winner of this

Penrith will undoubtedly miss Ryan Hackney (dislocated elbow) over the concluding stages of the T20 Cup. Credit: Michael Gibson.

Sunday’s conference semi-final.

However it appears Penrith, as they attempt to go one better than last year’s runners-up effort, will not only be without Ryan Hackney (out until the new year) and Josh Lalor, but Sam Billings and Jordan Silk have not qualified to appear for Penrith in the finals as they did for the latter stages of last season’s competition.

But the Penrith skipper, Ryan Smith says such is the confidence in the team at the moment, led by their openers Gibson and Di Bartolo, should hold them in good stead regardless of unavailable players.

“We’re playing with a lot of confidence. It doesn’t matter who we are playing, we just want to turn up and play our best cricket,” Smith declared.

“The openers definitely have been pivotal for us.

“Johnny has been providing a good foundation for our innings. He likes to go really hard no matter what the situation is.

“And Gibbo is such a smart player, he obviously has a Big Bash contract for a reason and has shown why he is a class player with some great knocks.”

Meanwhile Penrith’s Lady Cats have started strongly in their T20 competition, winning four of six to be sitting in 2nd position.

It comes after some strong wins in the past fortnight over Bankstown and St George-Sutherland before suffering a loss last Sunday to Sydney.

Against Bankstown, Samantha Arnold was the star of the show, scoring an unbeaten 52 and taking 3/23 as Penrith restricted their opponents to 5/144, chasing the visitors’ 3/175 total.

Last Sunday was a mixed bag in Penrith’s double header as they accounted for St George-Sutherland’s 4/111 reaching the target five wickets down with Mikayla Hinkley unbeaten on 65.

But in the afternoon game, Sydney were too strong in defending their score of 2/153 with the hosts in reply making just 9/108.

As with the men, the women now play on without the likes of Naomi Stalenberg, Lisa Griffith and Sarah Coyte due to WBBL commitments.

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

THE “FISH” HOOKED ON A LONG-TERM DEAL TO REMAIN A PANTHER James Fisher-Harris is the latest Panther to commit his long-term future to the club, having reportedly knocked back a sizable offer to join one of his best mates, former Panther Corey Harawira-Naera, at Canterbury in the process.

The new deal means the Kiwi international forward will remain a Panther until at least the end of the 2022 season, one of twelve players in Penrith’s top 30 roster who have committed to the club to at least 2021 or beyond.

“I’m really excited and grateful for the club to give me this opportunity,” Fisher-Harris said.

“It’s surreal when I think about where I’ve come from and where I am today.

“Penrith has become my second home. My family loves living here and all my mates are here too.

“It’s crazy how much talent we have at the club.

I think the sky’s the limit in terms of what we can achieve together.”

Panthers Executive General Manager Phil Gould AM is delighted to have retained the 22-year-old forward who has already played 63 NRL games (five tries) and three tests for his country, since making his NRL debut back in Round 1, 2016.

“James has come through the Panthers development system to now be an integral part of our NRL team,” Gould said.

“Already a current Kiwi international, James still has the best part of his football career well ahead of him.

“We are delighted he has committed to Panthers until the end of 2022.”

New coach Ivan Cleary has wasted no time sourcing a replacement for the recently departed Trent Merrin, with the signing of former St George-Illawarra Dragons forward Hame Sele.

The 22-year-old is excited to have signed a one-year deal at Panthers, with an option for an additional year in the club’s favour.

“It’s exciting for me to start this new journey with Panthers, especially when you look at the facilities and the talented players at the club,” Sele said.

“It’s my goal to make the most of my opportunity here and to earn a place in the NRL team.

“I’ll be doing everything I can to make that happen.”

The former Australian Schoolboys representative, made his NRL debut with the Dragons in 2017 and was selected in the NSW

2018 Intrust Super Premiership NSW Team of the Year, will make his NRL debut according to Gould.

“Liam hasn’t played in the NRL as yet but we know he is only moments away,” Gould said.

“We have no doubt this young man in a regular NRL player of the future.

“We are excited Liam has committed to Panthers for the next three years and are hopeful he will become a long-term player with the club.”

Key forward James Fisher-Harris is the latest Panther to commit long-term to the club. Credit: NRL Photos.

City Origin side later that year and will be more than a handy addition to the roster, according to Gould.

“Hame Sele is a tremendous addition to our playing roster,” Gould said.

“We consider ourselves very fortunate to have recruited such a talented forward at this stage of the season.

“Hame’s style of play will complement our forward depth perfectly and coach Ivan Cleary is excited to have him at our club.”

In further good news for the club, Intrust Super Premiership forward, Liam Martin has also agreed to a two-year contract extension with the club.

The new deal means the 21-year-old lock forward from Temora, will remain with Panthers until at least the end of the 2021 season and he couldn’t be happier to do so.

“I’m extremely happy and thankful to have the opportunity to re-sign at Panthers,” Martin said.

“Moving from the country to Penrith was a challenge at first but now this place has become my second home.

“The club has always been outstanding looking after me and making sure I have everything I need to succeed.

“With the calibre of players and coaching staff here, I know this club is capable of doing something special and I want to be a part of it.”

It’s only a matter of when not if the NSW Residents forward, who was also named on the bench in the

OFFER ENDS 31 DECEMBER 2018

Offer ends 31/12/2018. See in Store for Terms and Conditions.

Billy Burns, Dean and Shawn Blore, Spencer Leniu, Brayden McGrady, and Brian Too are confirmed as Penrith’s six development players in their roster for 2019.

Revised rules in 2019 will allow such development players to make their NRL debuts after June 30.

Meanwhile popular Intrust Super Premiership prop, Andy Saunders’ second stint at the club has come to an end, having signed to play with ISP rivals, Blacktown in 2019.

NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler has named five Panthers - Waqa Blake, Shawn Blore, Jack Hetherington, Dylan Edwards and perhaps in somewhat of a surprise, Moses Leota (Penrith Panthers) among a 23-man squad that will take part in a training camp at the soon-to-open Centre of Excellence (CoE) on Thursday 13 December.

It is Leota’s second selection in such a squad and comes despite having declared his allegiance to New Zealand when asked about his initial selection just a few months back.

Meanwhile congratulations are in order for the Leota family, having welcomed the birth of their second child, Aria, late last month.

All 2019 Panthers members are invited to join the NRL squad at the members-only Christmas Party on Saturday 15th December between 9:3011:30am at The Backyard, Panthers Leagues Club.

2019 recruit Tyrell Fuimaono is the latest Panther to been seen helping out in the local community, having recently attended the NADO touch football presentation. #PantherPride

Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

GOLDEN POINTS

45 45

PENRITH PANTHERS

with MARK GEYER

The A-Z of Christmas - best time of the year!

A

s we all gather around our loved ones for what I think is the best and most important time of the year let’s go through the alphabet and relate it to the greatest time of the year Christmas!

A. A is for advent calendar. What office or school classroom hasn’t got one to countdown to the most special day of the year?

B. B is for backyard cricket where no house seems to go without their own version of a “Howzat” call.

C. C is for Carols, every time I hear a Christmas carol it takes me straight to a place. A happy place.

D. D is for decorations. Lots go out of their way to make their homes look more and more like a massive Christmas tree. Decorations, which usually start being hung in early December, usually signals Christmas time.

E. E is for Eggnog. For you older readers you now exactly what am talking about for all you younger readers ask your mum or nan to whip up a batch.

F. F is for Family. It’s what the very essence of Christmas encapsulates for me. I feel for those not surrounded by theirs at this time of year.

G. G is for giving. It’s the season of giving and don’t we love it. Hope your reading this Geyer’s.

H. H is for what else but ham. It’s the ultimate Christmas food. Have it cold, fried, grilled or any other way you want it but what’s Christmas with

out ham?

I. I is for Ice. You’ll need plenty to keep your Christmas drinks the way you want them, cold!

J. J is for Jerusalem, the town synonymous with this time of the year. And also my favourite Christmas carol.

K. K is for Kris Kringle. The ultimate family gift of giving. Good luck with what yours may bring.

L. L is for leftovers. One of my favourite things about Christmas Day is how much bloody good food is leftover for our Boxing Day lunch.

M. M is for mistletoe. Every doorway should have one above it, everybody should kiss their loved one right under it..... at least once.

N. N is for Naughty or Nice. I was told from a very young age I had to be one or the other to get presents, nothing has changed now I’m a dad.

O. O is for “Oh No”, “there’s 2 days until Christmas and I’m only halfway through my gift buying.

P. P is for presents. That feeling I still get at Christmas Eve as the anticipation builds is a major highlight.

Q. Q is for Question. Every year in every household where there are kids under 12 THAT QUESTION is still asked.

R. R is for Rudolph, the most famous of all the Reindeers.

S. S is for Santa Claus. As he makes his way to our fair city let’s hope all of you and especially your kids get exactly what you want.

T. T is for Twelve Days of Christmas..... 4 calling birds, 3 French hens, 2 turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree....

U. U is for Unwrap. Watching my kids unwrap their presents on chrissy

day is a year long highlight.

V. V is for visitors. You always seem to have lots more this time of the year.

W. W is for Whalan, the suburb where I grew up and the very place I learnt just how special Christmas time is.

X. X is for X-ray. With all the new bikes, skateboards, scooters and anything with wheels let’s hope you’re not getting one of these over Christmas.

Y. Y is for You. Because without You your family and close friends don’t enjoy Christmas like they should.

Z. Z is for Zzzzzzz. It’s what you need after everything I’ve just written.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 6 December 2018 Issue 241

MG on the mark

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