Nepean News 6 October 2023 DIGITAL

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

PASSIONATE. PRIDE. PENRITH

For the month of October, Penrith has a very important job. It’s to turn the whole town PINK.

Six years ago The McGrath Foundation selected Penrith as the first metropolitan area in which to head the Pink Up Your Town Campaign.

Since then Penrith has turned pink every October and raised loads of funds.

“We have such a tight knit community here and I know we will band together once again to raise money for Breast Care Nurses that help individuals (and their families) affected by breast cancer,” said

Gai Hawthorn OAM, President and Ambassador of Pink Up Penrith.

There will be many events held locally over the next month, and some have already kicked off.

“It was an honour to be a part of the Pink Up Penrith Golf Day to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation goal of 250 McGrath Breast Care Nurses by 2025,” said Penrith MP Karen McKeown OAM.

“Our Government has also announced 29 new Breast Care Nurses in this years Budget!”

To get involved please go to www.pinkuppenrith.com.au

95B STATION ST, PENRITH

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Penrith community encouraged to apply for Community Building Partnerships

MEMBER for Penrith

Karen McKeown OAM is encouraging community organisations across Penrith and council to submit their grant applications for the Community Building Partnership (CBP) program to help make their town or suburb a better place to live, work, learn and play.

The program invests in infrastructure projects that deliver positive social, environmental and recreational outcomes while promoting community participation, inclusion and cohesion.

Since 2009, the program has awarded more than $436 million to more than 19,700 projects across the state, from access ramps for community halls to resurfacing the local sporting grounds.

Incorporated not-for-profit community organisations and local councils are eligible to apply for grants of between $5,000 and $150,000. Grants must be for building, refurbishing or repairing community infrastructure, or for buying freestanding equipment or vehicles.

Each state electorate receives a maximum of $300,000 in funding and applications are assessed against other proposed projects within the same electorate.

Grant applications close Friday, 27 October 2023 at 5pm.

To apply, visit the Community Building Partnership website: nsw.gov.au/cbp

Karen McKeown OAM said:

“I’ve seen first-hand how these grants make a real difference to local communities. Whether it’s repairs to a clubhouse kitchen or building an accessible ramp these grants provide lasting benefits for our residents across Penrith.

“Our NSW Government knows this is a longstanding program that works year on year, and communities have been eagerly awaiting its launch for 2023 – so we’re pleased to do exactly that.”

Bush fire survival plan

BUSH fire is a part of life in parts of our region, so you need to live bush fire ready.

That means knowing your risk and having a plan for what to do during a fire.

You can make your plan online in as little as five minutes at www.myfireplan.com.au

Or you can sit down with your family and discuss what you will do using our guide to making a bush fire survival plan.

FOUR SIMPLE STEPS

There are four simple steps to get ready for a bush fire:

STEP 1. DISCUSS WHAT TO DO IF A BUSH FIRE THREATENS YOUR HOME

Many households find that having a discussion over dinner works best as everybody is together and focussed.

STEP 2. PREPARE YOUR HOME AND GET IT READY FOR BUSH FIRE SEASON

There are simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire, like keeping the grass low and having a cleared area around your home.

STEP 3. KNOW THE BUSH FIRE ALERT LEVELS

If there is a fire in your area you will find its alert level on the NSW RFS website and in the ‘Fires Near Me’ app. You need to keep track of the alert level so you know what you should do.

STEP 4. KEEP ALL THE BUSH FIRE INFORMATION NUMBERS, WEBSITES AND THE SMARTPHONE APP

In a bush fire, it’s important that you stay up to date on conditions in your area. It’s a fact. If you and your home are well prepared, you stand a better chance of surviving a bush fire.

Funding to provide support for key community programs

ANON-PROFIT community garden run by seniors and a local food pantry service will soon get a boost in resources thanks to funding from Penrith City Council.

Following a recent visit to Barnardos at Cranebrook as one of her last Mayoral duties, Councillor Tricia Hitchen called on her councillor colleagues at the September Ordinary Meeting for their backing to give $3,000 to the organisation, to support two key community programs.

“The Active Care Network has a community garden established by a number of elderly people that go to the garden with their carers – they were talking to me about the long, hot summer we’re expecting, and they had concerns about their ability to keep the garden alive,” Cr Hitchen explained.

“While I was there, I was talking to the Barnardos case workers who were telling me that their case work has increased by 300 per cent, and they are turning people away without food parcels,” she said.

Cr Hitchen asked that each of Council’s three wards donate $1,000. Of the $3,000, $1000 will support the community garden and $2,000 will assist with the delivery of Barnardos’ food hampers. Councillors voted in favour of the urgent motion.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said Council was proud to help where possible as the cost of living rises means times are tough for many in the community.

“Council cares deeply about our residents and we recognise that there are amazing organisations and community groups making a difference in our City,” Cr Carney said.

“Council’s well-managed budget enables us to keep funds aside for urgent requests such as this, to improve these vital community programs and ensure that they

continue to be offered to community members,” he said.

The Active Gardening Club brings senior residents together to improve their well-being and decrease loneliness through opportunities to keep active and get their hands dirty.

Penrith City Council has been a proud partner of the Club, with Council’s Nursery offering space for members to hold fortnightly meetings and partake in gardening sessions, activities, tours and demonstrations.

Active Care Network’s Community Programs Manager, Coralie Griffiths, thanked Council for the donation which will fund items including a hose trigger nozzle, irrigation timer, compost materials, a greenhouse, shade cloth, vegetable wash bay, and more.

Barnardos Cranebrook’s food parcels provide essential fruit, vegetables, bread, pies and other pantry staples for those in need.

Program Manager for the Family Support Program, Melissa Cooke, said Barnardos was grateful for the $2,000 donation, which would enable the organisation to meet growing demand, with up to 700 food parcels handed out each month.

“The support we provide is free to residents and while our fridge is filled every morning, it is empty by the end of the day so we have had to limit how many pantry items we offer – this donation will keep our fridge restocked.”

Supporting children’s education, a key priority for Nepean Evening View Club this Anti-Poverty Week

MEMBERS of Nepean Evening VIEW Club are calling on the community to give generously this Anti-Poverty Week (15-21 October) and sponsor a child through national education charity The Smith Family. The focus of this AntiPoverty Week is to end child poverty in Australia.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club sponsors five children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial and personal assistance so that children have all the essentials necessary to fully participate in their learning.

This year has been particularly difficult for all Australians due to the costof-living crisis, but it has been even harder for those already doing it tough. Some families are having to make difficult choices between paying the rent and buying uniforms, school books and digital devices for their children.

Nepean Evening VIEW Club President, Fran McDaid, said with one in six children in Australia living in poverty, it has never been a more important time to support a child with their education.

“No child should have to miss out on the fundamentals of their education, and this is why VIEW is so passionate about supporting the work of The Smith

Family. Its evidence-based approach helps children experiencing disadvantage to overcome the educational inequality they face. The Smith family supports children for the duration of their primary, secondary and tertiary education, and this helps them build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures for themselves,” she said.

VIEW Clubs nationally raised more than $1.3million last year to support The Smith Family’s vital work, and they currently sponsor over 1,700 students on the Learning for Life Program.

While fundraising plays an important role in helping children in need, Fran McDaid is also encouraging women of all ages to donate their time and skills and join a VIEW club.

“Our VIEW members have a unique opportunity to provide hands-on support to children experiencing hardship, while also forming meaningful and lasting community relationships,” said Fran McDaid.

To find out more about joining VIEW, visit view.org.au or call 1800805366 Or email nepeanview@gmail.com for club details.

BY NEPEAN BLUE MOUNTAINS HEALTH DISTRICT

information on our website: www.nsw.gov.au/health/nbmlhd/patients-carers-visitors/visitors

Councillor Tricia Hitchen (centre) with members of the Active Gardening Club and staff from the Active Care Network and Barnardos.

The Active Gardening Club’s community garden is home to a range of herbs, spices, fruit and vegetables.

An example of what residents in need receive in Barnardos’ food hampers. Image courtesy of Barnardos.

Trial grants program launched to improve flexibility in early childhood education and care

THE Minns Labor Government has launched a $20 million trial grants program aimed at improving working families’ access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) when and where they need it most.

Offering providers a pool of up to $20 million over two years, the Flexible Initiatives Trial will provide grants to support existing ECEC services to expand and innovate, to better meet the needs of children and families and allow parents to enter the workforce or increase their hours.

New or adapted operating models will include:

• extending hours of care beyond traditional working hours

• providing flexible pick-up and drop-off times

• improved access to ad hoc care arrangements outside scheduled hours

• establishing new family day care services in remote areas

The Flexible Initiatives Trial includes funding to ensure the workforce is supported to deliver flexible models of ECEC. It is one of a suite of ECEC programs to be delivered by the NSW Government

in 2023-24, which aim to improve affordability and access.

As part of its recent Budget, the Minns Labor Government affirmed a $5 billion investment over 10 years in the Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund (the Fund) to boost the early childhood workforce and make ECEC affordable and accessible for more families.

The Fund will help deliver on new initiatives that directly support those who need it most – children, families and the early childhood education workforce.

It will also be used to provide $500 per child of fee relief to 3-year-old children attending eligible preschool programs in long day care centres, effective from early 2024.

Additional programs will be made available over the coming months.

All eligible ECEC service provider types are invited to apply for the Flexible Initiatives Trial, with funding to support family day care services on offer for the first time.

Applications are now open for the first round of the program, and close on 1 December 2023.

Visit the NSW Department of Education website for more information, including the program guidelines, eligibility and upcoming information sessions.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Penny Sharpe said:

“Flexible early childhood education and care options are critical for working families, particularly for parents and carers who are in parttime, casual or shift work.

“The Flexible Initiatives Trial is part of the Minns Government’s commitment to improving access to early childhood education and care.

“Through the Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund, exciting new initiatives are being developed to respond to the most pressing needs of the sector and the community.”

Make your stride count - Red Socks Run has arrived

Pull up those socks and run, walk, or ride 60km this October to help find the 1.8 million Australians unaware they have signs of kidney disease.

SPRING into October and make a difference by participating in the Red Socks Run to combat kidney disease.

This year’s Red Socks Run is more than a physical challenge; it’s a show of solidarity. Participants can run, walk, or ride 60km individually or as part of a team across the month of October, supporting those affected by this debilitating disease.

Around 2 million adult Australians are living with chronic kidney disease, but 1.8 million remain unaware they have the condition. That’s because people can lose 90% of their kidney function without experiencing symptoms.

Kidney Health Australia CEO, Chris Forbes, highlights the impact of kidney disease on patients, with many spending an average of 60 hours per month on life-sustaining dialysis machines.

Inspired by the cold feet experienced during dialysis treatment, participants

are encouraged to purchase special Red Socks in support.

Kidney disease remains relatively unknown, and Mr Forbes calls on all Australians to raise awareness and contribute to fundraising efforts.

“The Red Socks Run 60km challenge is a way of stepping into the shoes, or socks, of someone sitting in a dialysis chair for 60 hours a week, and helps shine a stronger light on one of Australia’s least known chronic

conditions,” he said.

Australian actress Michala Banas, who faced a major health scare as a child, emphasizes the importance of kidney health and urges everyone to request a simple kidney function test during their next doctor’s appointment.

“It’s such an easy thing to keep an eye on,” she said. “The next time you’re at a doctor’s appointment just ask them to check your kidney

function. That kind of stuff can really save you down the line because once it’s too late, it’s really too late.”

On average, 66 Australians will die every day with kidney disease, for which there is no cure.

Turn your good health into the support that can save a life by signing up to the Red Sock Socks Run and buying a pair of limited-edition Red Socks to wear proudly throughout October.

To register for Kidney Health Australia’s Red Socks Run, visit redsocksrun.org.au

Kidney Health Key Statistics:

• On average, 66 people in Australia die with kidney-related disease each day – more than breast cancer, prostate cancer and road accidents.

• People on dialysis often spend on average 60 hours a month strapped to a machine to stay alive.

• 2 million Australians have signs of kidney disease – and 1.8 million don’t know it.

• 90% of kidney function can be lost without any symptoms – the disease is a silent killer.

• 1 in 10 Australians have signs of kidney disease.

• 1 in 6 hospitalisations are kidneyrelated.

Nepean Avenue draft design gets the green light

THE community can look forward to improved safety and an enhanced Great River Walk experience after Penrith City Council endorsed the Nepean Avenue Pedestrian Pathway draft design at Monday night’s Ordinary Meeting.

Councillors voted to progress the project to detailed design and construction after a traffic audit confirmed the need for improved pedestrian safety on Nepean Avenue.

A key feature of the draft design is a new pedestrian pathway on the western side of Nepean Avenue, between Memorial Avenue and Tench Avenue. The path is within the existing road verge and includes bespoke lighting bollards to separate and protect pedestrians from passing traffic.

The project will also see Nepean Avenue become a two-way quietway with a reduced speed limit, road resurfacing and traffic calming bands to create a safer, calmer traffic environment to support cyclists on the road and encourages more active transport.

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney said many options for a permanent pathway solution have been considered and investigated by Council over the years, and the endorsement of the draft design reflects Council’s commitment to pursuing the best possible outcome for the community.

“Council has taken feedback on board and worked hard to develop a design that balances safety, functionality and aesthetic considerations and meets the needs and expectations of Nepean Avenue residents and the wider community,” Cr Carney said.

“Better connections around the Nepean River Precinct and greater accessibility have been a focus for Council since our community raised this as a priority during the development of the Our River Masterplan in 2013, and in other consultation opportunities since.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has provided

feedback about this project over the years. Council is looking forward to delivering the long-awaited missing link to the Great River Walk and providing this much safer connection for our community.”

This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Penrith City Council. Council secured a $1.25 million grant and will match this funding, with a further contribution allocated from Council’s District Open Space Contributions Plan.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the NSW Government was pleased to provide $1.25 million in grant funding to this project as part of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program.

“Our Metropolitan Greenspace Program helps create liveable places, great neighbourhoods and build sustainable communities in Sydney and across NSW.

“The works will create a safer and quieter area for pedestrians, cyclists and the wider community.”

The endorsed draft design will now progress to detailed design. Feedback from Nepean Avenue residents will help refine certain design elements with minor changes proposed for the placement, type and number of new trees, placement of bollards and travel lane dimensions.

Council will soon invite tenders for the detailed design and construction of the project. Construction is expected to start by early 2024 and be complete by late 2024. Learn more about the project by visiting yoursaypenrith.com.au/nepeanavenue.

For more information visit: www.planning. nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructurefunding/metropolitan-greenspace-program (nsw.gov.au)

Actors Michala Banas and Stephen Curry have united to raise awareness for kidney disease.

The draft design includes a new pedestrian pathway on the western side of Nepean Avenue, speed humps and new traffic calming bands to create a safer, calmer traffic environment that supports and encourages active transport.

Consultation on ANZAC Day trading hours

BY KERRIE DAVIES

THE Minns Labor Government will undertake a review of retail trading laws on Anzac Day, to consider whether retail stores should remain closed for more of the public holiday.

Currently, traders such as supermarkets and fashion retailers are required to stay closed until 1pm on Anzac Day under the Retail Trading Act 2008.

Certain businesses are automatically exempt from the rule, such as pharmacies, petrol stations, markets, cafes and takeaway restaurants.

There has been debate in recent times about whether Anzac Day is being appropriately recognised and what, if anything, should be done to ensure all Australians have the opportunity to take part in commemorations.

Anzac Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, landing in Gallipoli in 1915, and is one of Australia’s most important occasions.

The day is marked by a number of traditions, including dawn and sunset services, veteran marches, and wreath laying ceremonies.

Trading restrictions allow workers and business operators the opportunity to participate in commemorative and community events and pay their own respects.

Restrictions currently differ amongst Australian jurisdictions, with retail outlets open from early afternoon in some states (including

NSW), closed all day in other states, whilst no restrictions are enforced in both territories.

The Government invites interested parties to share their views on the changes to trading hours on Anzac Day. This will help inform the government’s decision.

People and groups can upload a written submission through the NSW Government Have Your Say website, haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au, or via email to anzacdayretailtrading@

customerservice.nsw.gov.au.

The closing date for submissions is 5pm, 20 October 2023.

“I am looking forward to hearing from business groups, unions, RSLs and other stakeholders about how they feel about this potential change.

“We want to hear whether retail workers and other parties would appreciate a greater opportunity to commemorate Anzac Day in NSW,” said Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis.

Wellbeing activities for Veterans and their families

ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS DESCRIPTION/TIMING

Coffee n Chat Veterans Mon – Fri early mornings – simply just a chat on the Train veranda (Veterans Support Centre)

Social Guild Veterans & partner Occasional social outings local or coach overnight

Hospital Visitations Veterans & partner Usually Tuesday mornings; Teams of 2 visit veterans in local hospitals

Guitars for Vets Veterans Wednesday mornings @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train); learn to play or join a jam session

Monthly BBQ B’fast Veterans & family 8.00am last Thursday of each month @ Veterans Support Centre (the Train)

Exercise classes White or Gold card holders Tue and Fri @ 8.00am @ Ripples, St Marys; occasional walks from/to the Train in lieu; must meet criteria

Walk n Talk Veterans & family Monthly walk on local footpaths from/to the Veterans Support Centre (the Train) Breakfast provided on return

Small bus day-trips Veterans Occasional, weekday or weekend; greater Sydney area; lodge interest at Veteran Support Centre

Computer Classes Veterans and partner Thursday mornings @ Veterans Support Cente (Train carriage); for beginners or for Photoshop classes

Merrie Widows Partners of deceased vets Last Wednesday of each month - gathering for lunch @ St Marys Diggers Club

Gov King Day Club Veterans & partner Wednesdays 9.00am @ Mamre House area

Packing Care Boxes Veterans 6-monthly day trip to Randwick to pack care boxes

Barefoot Bowls Veterans and partner 1st Friday of the month - @ St Marys Diggers Club

Wellbeing activity for OCTOBER 2023

DATE ACTIVITY

EVERY MONDAY Coffee n Chat

EVERY TUESDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

EVERY WEDNESDAY Gov King Day Club - Guitars for Vets

Wednesday 25th October

Merrie Widows

EVERY THURSDAY Coffee n Chat - Computer Classes

Thursday 19th October

War Widows Day

Thursday 26th October BBQ Breakfast

Friday 6th October

Barefoot Bowls

EVERY FRIDAY Exercise Class - Coffee n Chat

Saturday 14th October Walk n Talk

A milestone 1000 western Sydney aged care residents avoided emergency departments thanks to WSLHD’S inTouch service

THE 1000th patient recently benefited from a pioneering care program in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) that is helping the elderly avoid emergency departments (ED).

WSLHD’s inTouch Urgent Care Service offers 65 Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACF) residents in western Sydney assistance, saving them a trip to the hospital and allowing recovery in the comfort of their own homes.

inTouch uses virtual care as a mode of delivery to support connecting patients with the most appropriate care in the right setting using technology to bring clinicians, patients and families together at certain points of the care journey.

This program has made it possible for a centralised collaboration between RACF staff, General Practitioners (GPs), paramedics, hospital staff, and health and community service providers.

Through the use of digital platforms, these stakeholders are able to work together to provide the best quality of care for residents where they live, rather than in an unfamiliar environment.

A recent example of the incredible work of the inTouch team utilising virtual care involved a RACF resident with ongoing wrist pain following a fall the previous day.

The resident’s GP had arranged a mobile X-ray, but RACF staff were unable to access the result when the GP was unavailable, so they called an

ambulance to arrange a transfer to ED for further management.

inTouch reached out to assist and was able to access the resident’s X-ray images via the mobile radiology’s secure online portal and shared these with the orthopaedic specialist on-call at Westmead Hospital who recommended six-weeks immobilisation of the fracture.

After liaising with NSW Ambulance, an Extended Care Paramedic was sent out to the RACF to apply a plaster in the comfort of the resident’s own bed, just as they would have in ED.

Jasmin Ellis, the General Manager of WSLHD Integrated and Community Health, emphasised the importance of the inTouch model in caring for older patients.

inTouch ensures that older western Sydney residents get the high-quality care they need for less urgent conditions, in the right setting, Jasmin said.

“

“Accessing the appropriate support service is crucial for our more vulnerable patients, and the inTouch program is an invaluable service to connect a variety of healthcare experts, as a care team, to the patient by leveraging off new virtual capabilities.”

inTouch began as a way of adapting to health needs during the COVID-19 pandemic enabling over 45,000 patients to be cared for at home whilst COVID positive.

In May 2023, the inTouch nursing team won the Team of the Year award at the 2023 WSLHD Nursing and Midwifery Awards, recognising their excellent delivery of safe care and demonstrated effective collaboration both with each other and with others outside of their team.

WSLHD remains committed to delivering patientcentered care that improves health outcomes for the community.

The inTouch Urgent Care Service represents a transformative approach to healthcare delivery, reducing unnecessary ED transfers and providing optimal care options for residents.

With its continued success, inTouch is set to make an even greater impact on the western Sydney community in the years to come.

Suicide at Orchard Hills Tragedy

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

ARTHUR Judges the district coroner held an inquest at the Penrith Court House in July 1923 concerning the death of John “Jack” Jones that took place at Orchard Hills. In evidence Dr Day said that John was a patient of his since Christmas last and he last saw him two months ago. He was suffering from pressure palsy of the peroneal nerve but had improved at his last visit. (Hereditary neuropathy with pressure palsies is an inherited condition that causes numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the limbs. It affects the peripheral nerves which connect your brain and spinal cord to your muscles and cells that detect touch, pain and temperature and it can affect anyone). Dr Day said that John told him that he found his work too much for him and appeared to be worried. At the request of the police on the 27th of June he went to John’s residence and found him lying on the floor in a room at the back of the house with his throat cut. He had severed the large blood vessels of his windpipe and in his right hand was a razor grasped tightly, the injury evidently was self-inflicted and it would cause death in a few seconds. John’s death appeared to have taken place two or three hours before he arrived. Another witness Robert Arthur said he was a miner and a prospector but was no longer able to do much and lived at Orchard Hills with his daughter Vera Jones. On the morning of the 27th his daughter came to his room and said to come quick and look at “Jack” and he got up and went into a spare room at the back of the house and saw his son-in-law lying on his back with his face to one side and blood everywhere. He had a large cut in his neck and he felt his pulse and he was sure that he was dead. Robert said that he had never heard “jack” say that he would take his life. He was a good-tempered man but complained of inward troubles. He was very happy in his home life and very fond of his wife and he had heard him say often that the work was a bit too hard for him but he had to do it. Constable Myers of St Marys said that at 9am on the 27th he saw Mrs Jones the wife of the deceased at St Mary’s Police Station where she told him that her husband had cut his throat. He notified the doctor and went out with Mrs Jones to her residence at Orchard Hills where he saw the body of the deceased lying on his back in a pool of blood with a large gash in the throat. A blood-stained razor was tightly grasped in deceased’s right hand and death had evidently taken place two or three hours earlier as the body was quite cold. Sometime later he was present when Dr Day made an examination of the body and he had difficulty taking the razor from his tightly clenched hand. There was no appearance of a struggle having taken place and from the appearance of the body and surroundings the wound undoubtedly was self-inflicted. Vera Jones (nee: Arthur) the wife of John “Jack” Jones said in her evidence that Jack was born in Ballarat and was 52 years of age, (records show he was born in 1876 in Berrima) His parents were Richard and Maria Jones. Vera said that they were

married at Goulburn in 1919 after the war and moved to the Penrith district about three or four years ago (around 1920). She said that her husband had good health until last Christmas but since then he had not been at all well and was under the care of Dr Day and at times during the last few days prior to his death he walked about crying, and a day or two before he said that he wished he was dead. He had a bad leg and said he was not fit for work as it was too hard. On Tuesday night the 26th he went to bed but could not sleep at all and at 7 o’clock next morning got out of bed saying he was going down into the yard. Some little time after she got up and made the discovery of his death. She said that her husband was a man of very temperate habits and they lived very happily together. He was in the first world war during the whole of its duration. His brother allowed him to live on the orchard to help him. A verdict of suicide was recorded. John is buried at Penrith General Cemetery Anglican section at Kingswood in June 1923. Vera posted the following in the Nepean Times:

“In sad but loving memory of my dear husband Jack Jones, late of A.I.F who departed this life at Penrith June 27th, 1923, aged 42. Inserted by his loving wife, Vera Jones and little children, Ada and Margaret”.

I have lost my life’s companion, A life linked with my own, God alone knows how much I miss him. As I walk through life alone.

Sources: Nepean Times, Births, Deaths & Marriages online, Ancestry,

 Photo of his grave courtesy of “Find a Grave” website

Cavalcade presentation is a themed talk and includes examples from the collection with commentary. Items are carried amongst the audience, allowing a closer look at pieces from the collection. The Cavalcade of History and Fashion is an organisation with a collection of original historic gowns and accessories with provenance, dating from the

preserving

social and fashion history..

Penrith City Choir to perform Fauré “Requiem”

PENRITH City Choir will present an afternoon of French sacred music featuring works by Fauré and Saint- Saëns at St Finbar’s Church in Glenbrook on Sunday 22 October at 3pm.

Composed in the late 1880s, Gabriel Fauré’s setting of the Requiem Mass is one of his most beloved works. With its ethereal beauty and elegant vocal writing this choral masterpiece has remained a favourite with choirs and audiences alike. The program will also include four motets by Camille Saint-Saëns, also composed in the late 1800s.

The concert will be conducted by Penrith City Choir’s newly appointed Musical Director, Rowen Fox, and feature soloists David Cervi and Belinda Montgomery.

The choir will be accompanied by Titus Grenyer on St Finbar’s beautiful organ which was shipped from Plymouth and originally installed in Sydney’s St Peter’s Anglican Church in 1881. Titus is the City Organist of Sydney, and Director of Music at our Lady of Delours Catholic Church in Chatswood. He previously served as Assistant Organist at St Mary’s Cathedral.

Complimentary afternoon tea will be served following the performance.

Tickets available from Trybooking at www.trybooking.com/ CKXIH or admission at the door for $28 adult; $22 concession; $10 school age children.

Comedy Club @ The Joan brings back the laughs

THE October line-up of Comedy Club @ The Joan, hosted by funny-woman Frida Deguise, presents two award-winning comedians hailing from separate hemispheres, Australian stalwart of the scene Simon Kennedy and American expat Al Del Bene. Come along early, grab a drink at the bar and then settle in for another hilarious night of side-splitting comedy at The Joan!

Simon Kennedy has been making audiences laugh for over 20 years. His first Melbourne International Comedy Festival show was in 2001, and what’s followed has been a list of successful festival shows across the country.

Simon’s TV appearances include Stand Up Australia (The Comedy Channel), Joker Poker Series 1 & 2 (Channel 10), Today Show (Channel 9), Harry’s Practice, Home & Away (Channel 7), Thursday Night Live (ONE HD) and Last Comic Standing on the NBC Network in the USA. He has won awards for his skills as a Voice Artist in animated short films, TV commercials and on radio hosting shows on the Nova Radio Network and Triple M Sydney.

Al Del Bene, LOS ANGELES COMEDY AWARDS™ Comedian of the Year, broke into comedy in

Boston at the age of 18 as a standup comedian and head of the sketchimprov group Al & the Monkeys. In New York City, he wrote, directed and starred in his musical debut at The NYC Fringe Festival

In Los Angeles, Al became a regular at The World Famous Laugh Factory on The Sunset Strip, as well as running

his own weekly show, Saturday Night Laughs, inside Hollywood’s legendary Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Along with theatre roles, his TV appearances include Tourgasm, Comics Unleashed, NESN Comedy All Stars, Jon Lovitz Presents and his own talk show and Ustream.TV’s first original program, Show Interrupted.

Comedy Club @ The Joan is on at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre on Friday 27 October at 7:30pm. Duration: 60 minutes. Tickets: Standard $35, Concession $30. A $5 booking fee applies. www.thejoan.com.au/events/ comedy-club-the-joan/

Sydney’s hottest men in their brand-new show - live on stage!

LOOK out ladies, the hunks from Sydney Hotshots are back to sizzle and seduce for one night only with a brand-new killer show. The 2-hour production is a visual feast, choreographed and developed by Australia’s leading professionals. Our hand-picked selection of dreamy guys will have the ladies up from their chairs, screaming for more, night after night! With a totally interactive production, The Secret Fantasies Tour is the perfect night out with the girls! A high energy production, our shows boast the perfect mix of killer dance routines, eyecatching costumes, acrobatics, and jaw dropping athletic male physiques. Our smorgasbord of sexy guys are selected from 100’s of men nationwide and put though an intensive “Hotshots Bootcamp”, all graduating with an A+ in hip thrusting! Our fellas come from

various backgrounds from Tradies, Cops, Farmers and even Fireman to tour Australia and entertain the ladies! Hosted by seasoned professional Paul Reynolds (original cast member of Manpower Australia and Las Vegas headliner), Reynold’s showmanship and cheeky banter with our audiences makes for an extra entertaining evening. It’s the most fun a girl can have standing up! The Sydney Hotshots have graced television screens, appearing on Studio 10, Sunrise, AGT and Good Morning New Zealand only to name a few, as well countless radio interviews and newspaper articles/interviews. For more information, media enquiries and interviews, please contact our publicity team: media@sydneyhotshots.com.au

O’Donoghue’s Irish Pub Emu Plains – Friday 6th October Penrith RSL – Saturday 4th November.

What’s on at the Joan

Salon:

Andrew Dickeson Trio

6 October 7pm

The Andrew Dickeson Trio is quite simply the epitome of swing. Drawing upon the classic trio sounds of Ahmad Jamal, Hank Jones, Oscar Peterson and more, but with their own unique musical fingerprint. In their return to The Joan, you’ll hear the Trio’s stylish arrangements of best-loved standards from the Great American Songbook, classic tunes by jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie, and some new original compositions too. This is swinging, classic trio jazz at its very best!

The End of Winter

6 October 7.30pm

Will climate change erase winter leaving it to exist only in fairy tales, paintings, and historical accounts? In hot, bushfire-prone Australia, our winters are becoming warmer and shorter. The End of Winter is about loss and resilience. It’s about the places one can search for cold weather – places that can be reached via public transport and the imagination. This is a new work for the stage that speaks to our current climate crisis. Written in the wake of the devastation of the 2019 bush fires it asks: What’s happening to winter?

Talks & Ideas: The Marriage between Music and Words

With Andy Bromberger

11 October 11am

Music and words have always been entwined in both religious and secular music. Beautiful words are made more poignant by sweeping melodies while text gives music added dimensions. This relationship between words and music has been treated differently by composers throughout the centuries. From single line vocal melodies where the words were all important, to great operas where the words often take the back seat to beautiful melodies. Don’t miss this insightful free talk, bookings essential.

Frenchy - Judgement Day Tour

13 October 8pm

Presented by New World Artists

Yes, Father Frenchy is back for another ridiculous comedy show and nothing is off limits. Some people believe that the world will end soon and God will judge how everyone lived. WHY WAIT FOR THAT?!

Frenchy is ready to judge now, whether you’re ready or not. Edgy, dark and absurd, Frenchy’s brand of comedy aint for everyone but that’s how comedy is supposed to be. Frenchy’s shows are always an epic night but just be careful if you sit in the front row.

Dragons abreast at Tench Reserve

Sharp performances at All Schools Championships

BY NOEL ROWSELL

“ALL Schools at SOPAC (Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre) - what an opener,” said Sam Sharp, mother of Para athlete Layla Sharp. “Gold in the 200m and a PB (personal best), couldn’t be more proud of her dogged determination to succeed and whats more, no coach, on her own and in sprints in which she simply has no formal training. A sub 30, “29.23”, another PB from “29.95” only 2 weeks ago.

“The 100m was amazing, purely because it’s a race that she (Layla) hasn’t done any training for in the lead-up, and she was stoked to not only get the sub 15sec but also to do a PB in a major championship and walk away with Gold.

“Well, the closeout of All Schools didn’t disappoint. 800m, Gold, PB and the Australian record. She (Layla) is 3 seconds off the World Record for her classification and the 4-second PB was phenomenal. The results highlight how close her times came to the world record set in her classification. We’re now off to Perth in December for those 3 events (100m, 200m and 800m) at the National All-Schools, which are being held from 8th-10th December, hoping now with her training to drive the times even further down.”

Layla Sharp in her 200m Gold Medal winning run. Photos: Greg Griffis www.instagram.com/g_griffis7/

Action at Tench Reserve for Dragons Abreast Cancer Awareness. Photos by Noel Rowsell

Next stop Sydney on Olympic Legacy Tour as London passes flag for 2025 world championships

AS the dust settles on the 2023 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, Australia’s excitement is peaking for more than one reason.

The Australian Canoe Slalom team wrapped up their campaign with an impressive medal haul totalling two gold and one bronze, as well as seven top-10 places and three Olympic quotas for next years’ Paris Games.

The World Championships at the London 2012 Olympic venue also gave the Australians another reason to be excited, with the ICF flag officially passed from the London organisers to Paddle Australia, the hosts of the next event in October 2025.

The event from 1-6 October 2025 will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games at Penrith Whitewater Stadium. It is only the second time Australia will host the world championships after a previous event in 2005.

International Canoe Federation President Thomas Konietzko said London hosted a great event, and he’s looking forward to heading down under after next years’ Olympic Games.

“I think we have seen an extraordinary World Championships with great performances of our athletes,” Mr Konietzko said.

“It was a really good rehearsal for the Olympic Games next year. I think the Kayak Cross was so exciting and thrilled all the audiences.

“We can really look forward to improving our position in the Olympic movement next year, and even more looking forward to showing our part in Sydney 2025. I look forward to

seeing a real celebration of our sport in Australia,” he said.

After enjoying her personal success and celebrations with the Australian team in London, World Champion Jess Fox OAM said she’s excited to welcome the international Slalom community to her own backyard in Penrith in two years time.

“It’s been an incredible week of competition here in London - we started with the team event where Australia was successful with

a historic gold medal, and then personally to win bronze and gold was incredible,” Fox said.

“It’s been a wonderful event - the organisers, the atmosphere, the crowd was incredible.

“It’s really exciting for us to welcome the world to Penrith in 2025, to have all the athletes come back to the Olympic venue, which for me started my journey at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and the 2005 World Championships, so I am really excited for that.

“I would love to see a bigger crowd, I would love to see amazing competition and amazing athletes from all over the world really enjoying our city, enjoying our venue and inspiring our community,”

Planning and preparations for the 2025 World Championships are underway following a $3.1m venue upgrade by the NSW Government at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

The Sydney 2000 Olympic venue is reopening to the public for rafting, whilst the 2024 Oceania Championships from 26-28 January, will kick off the international season ahead of the Paris Olympic Games.

Chris Holmes (Wallacia) runner-up in BMDGA Open

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Blue Mountains

District Golf Association had been unable to hold the Blue Mountains Open for the past 3 years, due to COVID and the weather, but the event returned this year, hosted by Blackheath GC on Sunday 24th September.

Blackheath Club Champion, Blackheath Open Champion and captain of the winning A-Reserve pennants team Joshua Thomas (+3 handicap) out-classed the field with a scratch score of 65, 2 shots ahead of Wallacia’s Christopher Holmes 67.

“Well played Josh and congratulations,” said Blackheath Golf and Community Club General Manager Brian Tulloch.

“Josh has had a great year. He is now also the District Open Champion and has been selected in the District team for the Country Championships, to be held in November. Keep up the good form, Josh.

“District Captain Anthony Boza (Lithgow) attended the event, along with the District President, Eric Whalan ( Oberon), and we thank them and the association for sponsoring the day.”

The full results are: Champion: Joshua Thomas 65; Runner Up Christopher Holmes 67; Nett Winner

Windsor Polo Club hosts Hector King and The Countess of Dudley Cup

BY NOEL ROWSELL

WINDSOR Polo Club (WPC) will host the Hector King and The Countess of Dudley Cup (10-goal) over the next two weekends, beginning on 7th-8th October and concluding on the 14th -15th October.

12 teams will battle out the 10-goal spectacular and it is an event you will not want to miss

The Killarney Cup (4, 0 and subzero) will also be held on 7th-8th, whilst the Windsor Cup (4, 0 and sub-zero) will be held on 14th-15th October.

Spectators are welcome.

Action at WPC between Arunga and Kurri Burri . Photos by Noel Rowsell

BMDGA Open Winner Joshua Thomas (Blackheath) with District Captain Eric Whalan (Oberon)

BMDGA Open Runner-up Chris Holmes (Wallacia). File photo.

: Johnathan Van-veen (Lithgow GC) 65, Runner Up : Vin Clayton (Leura GC) 67; Veterans Scratch winner : Peter Tunks 70; Veterans Nett Winner: Anthony Oldfield 69

Locals qualify for Fayde Junior Matchplay

BY NOEL ROWSELL

THE Fayde Junior Matchplay will return to Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club this weekend, hosting some of the best players from across NSW and the ACT.

The tournament will be played over Thursday 5th - Friday 6th October, with all players guaranteed a minimum of three matches before the Final takes place on the Friday afternoon.

For many players, the Fayde Matchplay represents the last opportunity to secure an entry into the Bonville Champions Trophy, played in December.

The Top 8 Players in each age division have automatically qualified for the JNJG Matchplay Major, these players qualifying based on a combination of the 2023 Junior

Vardon (boys), Junior Derrin (girls) and JNJG Junior Masters (boys and girls) averages.

These combined averages take into account golf tournaments held right

across the country over the past nine months, starting with the 2022 Brett Ogle Junior Masters in November, right through to the 2023 Greg Chalmers Junior Masters at Shelly

Beach on the last weekend in July.

A number of reserves have also been included, should players in the Top 8 who have automatically qualified not be able to take part in the tournament.

Local western Sydney players who have qualified or listed as Reserves are as follows:

Boys: 17 Years: Reserves: Blake HODGES (Erskine Park / NSW GC); Boys 16 Years: Darcy MACKAY (Stonecutters Ridge GC), Matthew FULLERTON (Lynwood CC), Reserves: Andrew KNEEVES (Castle Hill CC); Boys 15 Years: Chayse THORPE (Richmond / Lynwood CC)

Girls: 17 Years: Michelle YANG (Stonecutters Ridge GC); 15 & 16 Years - Reserves: Annoushka MAIKAP (Stonecutters Ridge GC); 14 Years & Under - Camilla KIM (Kellyville / The Australian GC); Reserves: Savannah WEBB (Stonecutters Ridge GC).

Locals capture JNJG International Titles

BY NOEL ROWSELL

RICHMOND’S Ti Fox (Concord GC) and Kellyville’s Camilla Kim (The Australian GC) have captured the Boys and Girls titles respectively, in the Jack Newton Junior Golf International Sub-Junior (14 + Under) Classic.

Camilla led the Girls division from the outset, shooting a 2-under 69 on Day One, then withstood challenges from both Seoin Kim (Nudgee GC, QLD) and Katie Seol (Royal Adelaide GC, SA), ending her tournament with yet another sub-par round of 70 to win by 4 shots over Seoin and 6 shots ahead of Katie.

In the 13 Years Age Division, Camilla finished a staggering 26 shots ahead of the runner-up, again showcasing the dominance she has enjoyed all year in her Age division.

Ti had a potentially disastrous opening round of 78, 9 shots behind first round leader Zac Oyston (Wollongong GC) but improved dramatically in each of the following three rounds to edge up the leaderboard.

He then shot a final round of 2-under 69 to surge 5 places up the leaderboard into a share of the lead, locked together with Harry Gourlay

(The Australian GC) on 293. That result would stand, with both boys sharing the International Sub-Junior title, 1 shot ahead of Zac in 3rd place.

Age Group placings: 14 Years

Boys: Ti Fox (tied 1st), Brent Gadd (Penrith GC) 13th, Jake Thompson (Leonay GC) 22; 11 Years Boys: Jake Frankin (Lynwood CC) 11th; 10 Years

Boys: Hunter McMillan (Twin Creeks GC) 3rd; 14 Girls: Savannah Webb

(Stonecutters Ridge GC) 7th, 13 Years Girls: Camilla Kim (Kellyville / The Australian GC) 1st.

The Jack Newton Junior Golf Junior International Classic (15-17 Years) was held over the same dates at Cypress Lakes GC, with Sarah Hammett (Emerald Lakes GC, QLD) totally dominant, finishing 16-under par to record a 10-shot victory.

15 Years Girls: Annoushka

Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 14th; 17 Years Girls: Michelle Yang (Stonecutters Ridge GC) 13th; 15 Years Boys: Riley Cleminson (Penrith GC) 46th; 16 Years Boys: Andrew Kneeves (Castle Hill CC) tied 7th, Matthew Fullerton (Lynwood CC) tied 15th, Darcy Mackay (Stonecutters Ridge GC) tied 20th; 17 Years Boys: Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / NSW GC) tied 11th.

Panthers fall one win short of a medal at Australian Club Championships

THE Penrith Panthers U14 Girls representative basketball team has fallen one win short of a bronze medal in the Shield Division of the Australian U14 Club Championships.

Early results in the tournament

relegated the young Panthers to the Shield Division (2nd tier), where they fought through to the playoffs, before losing their semi-final 70-46 to the Tasmanian Northwest Devils.

This put the Panthers in the bronze

medal game against Canberra, where they lost a close contest 58-55 to finish in 4th position in the Shield division (16th overall).

Penrith’s results were: Warwick Senators 59-45 win, Sandringham

Sabres 51-40 loss, Norwest Flames 59-47 loss, Forestville Eagles 53-49 win, Darwin Cyclones 83-16 win, Tasmanian Southern Kangaroos 87-53 win, Tasmanian Northwest Devils 7046 loss, Canberra 58-55 loss.

Blake Hodges (Erskine Park / NSW GC) and Annoushka Maikap (Stonecutters Ridge GC) – photos courtesy of JNJG

Camilla Kim and Ti Fox with their winner’s trophies. Photos supplied by JNJG

Telstra Footy Country Tour concludes in Penrith

THE NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour concluded it’s four-week journey around Australia’s footy heartland, arriving in Penrith for its final stop last week ahead of the 2023 NRL Telstra Grand Final.

Having clocked just over 9,500 kilometres as it ventured throughout footy country across regional Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, the tour descended on the territory of the reigning Premiers as the Penrith Panthers prepared to face off against the Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium this Sunday night.

Penrith Waratahs Junior Rugby League Club played host for the final stop of the tour as Dolphins NRL star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow hosted a holiday clinic for Penrith’s aspiring league participants under the watchful eye of the greatest prizes in football: the Provan-Summons trophy and NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership trophy.

The club will also received a special rugby league gift pack consisting of new gear to develop and encourage the future footy stars of tomorrow, thanks to Telstra.

“At Telstra, we love footy, and we know it plays such a profound role in Australia’s culture and sense of identity,” Telstra Executive, Michael Ackland said.. “It defines our competitive nature, our sense of mateship and the importance of community. It’s in our country towns where this relationship with community runs deepest and it’s in desperate need of support.”

“The health benefits of team sport are well documented, including positive impacts on kids’ mental health and cognitive development. The sense of community built by team sport is particularly apparent in the bush where sport like footy drives connection and creates a meeting place for people who live across larger distances. That’s why Telstra is committed to investing in country footy and we hope to see continued growth for years to come.”

UNSTOPPABLE PANTHERS:

THIRD PREMIERSHIP IN THE BAG

Panthers named in Kangaroos Pacific Championships squad

Gallagher Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has named four debutants and eight grand finalists as part of a 21-man squad for the upcoming 2023 Pacific Championships which kicks off on October 14.

BY NRL.COM

ROOKIE Broncos trio Selwyn Cobbo, Thomas Flegler and Kotoni Staggs have been named for their first Kangaroos campaign alongside teammates Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan, whilst three-time premiership-winners Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin have once again been named in the squad.

The Panthers trio were all part of the Kangaroos’ successful World Cup victory last November, with Meninga retaining 16 players in his Pacific Championships squad.

Update from editor: However Nathan Cleary will not be playing. Cronulla halfback Nicho Hynes has been added to the Gallagher Kangaroos squad for the upcoming Pacific Championships following the withdrawal of Nathan Cleary due to injury.

Dolphins fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who played centre for Queensland in their Origin series win earlier this year, is the other debutant in the squad.

James Tedesco will once again captain the side alongside Roosters teammate Lindsay

Collins, with Dragons captain Ben Hunt likely to split the hooking role with Storm rake Harry Grant as they did in last year’s World Cup campaign.

Meninga said the squad included a good mix of incumbent players and those who have performed well for club and state in 2023.

“The quality we saw in the regular season, the State of Origin series and the Finals Series means we have been able to put together an outstanding squad,” Meninga said.

“The squad has a healthy blend of representatives from last year’s World Cup, as well as others who have performed extremely well over the course of the season.”

Australia will play its first game of the Pacific Championships against Samoa in Townsville on October 14 before taking on New Zealand in Melbourne on October 28. The final of the tournament will be played the following week in Hamilton.

KANGAROOS v TOA SAMOA

Josh Addo-Carr (Bulldogs)

Patrick Carrigan (Broncos)

Daly Cherry-Evans (Sea Eagles)

Nathan Cleary (Panthers)

Selwyn Cobbo* (Broncos)

Lindsay Collins (Roosters)

Reuben Cotter (Cowboys)

Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Titans)

Thomas Flegler* (Broncos)

Harry Grant (Storm)

Payne Haas (Broncos)

Valentine Holmes (Cowboys)

Ben Hunt (Dragons)

Liam Martin (Panthers)

Cameron Munster (Storm)

Cameron Murray (Rabbitohs)

Kotoni Staggs* (Broncos)

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow* (Dolphins)

James Tedesco, capt. (Roosters)

Jake Trbojevic (Sea Eagles)

Isaah Yeo (Panthers)

*Denotes debutant

SATURDAY 14TH OCTOBER | 8.10PM

Panthers quartet feature in Toa Samoa squad

Six players who featured in this year’s NRL Telstra Premiership grand final have been named in a strong Toa Samoa squad to contest this year’s Pacific Championships.

BY NRL.COM

PREMIERSHIP-WINNING Penrith

Panthers quartet Stephen Crichton, Spencer Leniu, Izack Tago and Brian To’o will be joined by Brisbane Broncos duo Keenan Palasia and Jesse Arthars in new coach Ben Gardiner’s squad to take on Australia and New Zealand in the tournament starting later this month.

However, with Panthers five-eighth Jarome Luai ruled out with a shoulder injury he reaggravated in the win over the Broncos, fresh faces including Daejarn Asi and Karl Oloapu, as well as Crichton are expected to spend time in the halves.

Dubbed “the minister for energy” by Gardiner, the coach said he was hopeful to see Luai join the squad and would still be a “close part of what we do”.

After guiding his side to their first ever Rugby League World Cup final last year, Samoa will again be led by Eels skipper

Junior Paulo who said the tournament would provide his team with “another opportunity to shock the world again”.

“With the balance of young and senior players, it’s definitely a good combination that we have got going,” Paulo said.

Cowboys back Murray Taulagi - who was part of the Kangaroos squad in the Rugby League World Cup last year and also recently played for the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII in Papua New Guinea - has also be named in the new-look squad to make his first appearance in blue.

Samoa will play its first game of the Pacific Championships against Australia in Townsville on October 14, before taking on New Zealand in Auckland the following week.

Jesse Arthars (Brisbane Broncos)

Daejarn Asi (Parramatta Eels)

Gordon Chan Kum Tong (Manly Sea Eagles)

Stephen Crichton (Penrith Panthers)

Sualauvi Faalogo (Melbourne Storm)

Royce Hunt (Cronulla Sharks)

Luciana Leilua (North Queensland Cowboys)

Connelly Lemuelu (Dolphins)

Spencer Leniu (Penrith Panthers)

Heilum Luki (North Queensland Cowboys)

Grey Marzhew (Newcastle Knights)

Justin Matamua (Wests Tigers)

Terrell May (Sydney Roosters)

Karl Oloapu (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Keenan Palasia (Brisbane Broncos)

Junior Paulo (Parramatta Eels)

Izack Tago (Penrith Panthers)

Murray Taulagi (North Queensland Cowboys)

Young Tonumaipea (Melbourne Storm)

Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers)

Stefano Utoikamanu (Wests Tigers)

QUEENSLAND COUNTRY BANK STADIUM, TOWNSVILLE

PANTHERS FEVER SWEEPS THE STREETS

Nathan Cleary clinches second Clive Churchill Medal

Penrith co-captain Nathan Cleary has produced a stunning performance to clinch the 2023 Clive Churchill Medal, becoming just the third player to win the award on multiple occasions.

BY DAN TALINTYRE NRL CONTENT LEAD

CLEARY, who scored the matchwinning try and landed the match-winning conversion as Penrith roared back from a 16-point deficit – chalking up their third consecutive title courtesy of the biggest comeback in NRL grand final history.

The superstar halfback joins Billy Slater (2009 and 2017) and Bradley Clyde (1991 and 1993) as the only players to win multiple Clive Churchill medals.

Cleary finished the game with 12 points – courtesy of a try and four goals from as many attempts – whilst also adding a linebreak and a try assist for Moses Leota.

Only fullback Dylan Edwards (26 runs for 296 metres) had more

runs than Cleary, whose 21 carries accounted for 162 metres. He also added four tackle breaks, three offloads, 660 kick metres from 21 kicks and 18 tackles.

“It honestly doesn’t feel real right now,” Cleary said in accepting the medal.

“I can’t wait for it to set in.

“That’s the hardest game I’ve ever played.

“To our boys, it’s nothing but love. We worked so hard for this and we’re still just getting started.”

‘Just getting started’: Three-peat Panthers fire warning shot

Injured Panthers star Jarome

Luai admitted there was no worse feeling than watching the frantic closing stages of Sunday’s grand final from the sideline but he believes there’s even more success to come from the Panthers.

BY KELSEY HOGAN

NRL REPORTER

WITH the traditional lei around his neck and now a third premiership ring on his fingers, Luai said he believes his side is the greatest team of the NRL era but sent a scary warning shot to the rest of the competition that this is only the beginning.

“The resume speaks for itself, no other team has done this. Hate us, love us you can’t argue with that. We’re just getting started,” Luai said following his side’s 26-24 win over the Broncos.

“Winners win and that’s what we are and we’ve got a lot of them in our team.

“Obviously we’ll continue to strive for that but that’s a while away and it’s time to party.”

After reaggravating a shoulder injury in the 51st minute of Sunday’s grand final, the star five-eighth was unsure about the extent of the injury amid Penrith’s grand final celebrations.

Departing Panther Jack Cogger replaced Luai in the final 29 to help the Panthers fight back from a 16-point deficit before Nathan Cleary iced the match winning moment in the 77th minute to kick off celebrations in the Penrith dressing sheds.

“Towards the end of the first half just felt it [shoulder] and it went numb a bit,” he said.

“I came inside at half time, needles, pain killers so I could give what I could give but the boys had to finish it off.

“It’s probably the worse feeling but knowing what team you have and the players you play with every week, never count them out.

“We’ve showed it many times when we’ve been down, we’ve always crawled back so me and Peach [Tyrone Peachey] definitely had belief on the bench, that was the chat between us, but I don’t think anyone else did.

“I feel a lot better now than if we lost tonight. A few beers will take away the pain.”

However, Luai’s future at Penrith is yet to be locked in with the threetime premiership winning No. 6 off contract at the end of 2024 and set to hit the open market on November 1.

Admitting he has decision to make while he hits the rehab room in the off season, the St Marys junior said he has to consider the potential of future success at the club and what’s best for his family.

“There was two main factors, success or family so they’re the two main reasons with this decision coming up but for now it’s time to party.”

Cleary wins Churchill Medal

“Undisputed”: The UFC-inspired theme behind Panthers’ three-peat

BY BRAD WALTER, NRL SENIOR REPORTER

IT was also the word that featured as the centre piece of a UFC-style championship belt the Panthers proudly unveiled after their epic 2624 triumph against the Broncos and it was written beneath photos of each player on posters in the dressing room.

Penrith were confirmed as the greatest team of the salary cap era and one of the best of all time after overcoming the loss of star playmaker Jarome Luai to complete the biggest comeback in grand final history and win a third consecutive premiership.

It’s a feat that hasn’t been achieved for 40 years and Ivan Cleary’s men are now aiming to become one of just three teams to win four successive grand finals, along with St George (twice during their record run of 11 consecutive premierships from 1956 to 1966) and South Sydney (1926-29).

The Panthers had a specially designed UFC-style belt made during the finals series and after each win they would add a medallion with the score, date and name of their opponent as they strove to become “undisputed” three-time champions.

Clive Churchill Medallist Nathan Cleary added the final medallion, which was engraved with the word “undisputed”, to the belt at the conclusion of a speech by his father, Ivan, in the packed Panthers dressing room.

“Firstly, I want to thank everybody in this room and anyone who has ever supported us,” Ivan said.

“It’s been a long journey. I know this year’s team has been an incredible team, that’s one thing, but this is also part of three in a row.

“There are people here who have done so much for this team and club – players, coaches, staff members, they’re all a part of this three-peat.

“This group, man, I love you guys so much. That tonight was unbelievable. We played a way that would have beaten most other teams but the Broncos didn’t go away.

“When we were down 24-8, and in all sorts, I thought we accelerated. We need to finish off our belt.”

Players later posed for photos with the belt on the field at Accor Stadium and were carrying it when they returned to Penrith to continue the celebrations in the early hours of Monday morning.

Liam Martin, who was one of nine players to have featured in each of the three premiership triumphs, said the belt was the idea of Panthers football analyst Demas Wong, who presented the “undisputed” medallion to Cleary to insert.

“It just added a bit of enjoyment during the finals,” Martin said. “After each game that we won we’d just add a bit of an emblem onto the belt with the score and stuff. It was pretty cool.””

Posters in each player’s game day locker were headlined “History Hunters”, with “undisputed” written at the bottom.

The posters featured a photo of the player with the name of their junior club written underneath and a brief description of their playing attributes.

Fullback Dylan Edwards was described as a “try saving wizard”, while Martin was lauded for his “relentless pressure”.

“Every year we have a theme, so it’s been good,” injured playmaker Jarome Luai said. “The belt is a bit of a pinnacle thing that the coaches came up with.

“Each finals game there was a separate emblem to put in the belt so that was pretty cool.”

After singing the club song, the players sung “We are the Champions”, and while they are losing star centre Stephen Crichton, interchange prop Spencer Leniu and back up five-eighth Jack Cogger, the Panthers believe their streak can continue.

“I honestly can’t put into words how good this feels,” Martin said. “This is the sweetest victory yet, because of the way we had to do it and [achieving] the three-peat.

“Even when the score was 24-8 there was still that belief that we were not down and out. You’ll never keep us down, we just keep turning up for one another.

“We will come in next season and be even hungrier. We just want to keep building, keeping each other accountable and getting better and better.

“We just don’t want to let each down and we just keep going. We don’t stop for one another.”

“Undisputed!”.

That was how Penrith captain Isaah Yeo ended his speech after accepting the NRL Premiership Trophy for a third time on Sunday night.

Panthers analyst Demas Wong presents Nathan Cleary with the medallion to insert in the belt

Merv Cartright Awards night

IT was a star-studded event at the Western Sydney Convention Centre on Wednesday night as players, Panthers admin, local politicians, sponsors and guests attended the Merv Cartright awards.

The roof was raised from the loud applause when the prestigious Merv Cartright Medal was awarded to Isaah Yeo.

Congratulations to Moses Leota on being awarded the John Farragher Award for Courage and Determination, Sunia Turuva who claimed the Rookie of the Year, Dylan Edwards for earning Members Player of the Year and Henry Ward for being named Club Person of the Year.

What a year. What an amazing team!

Isaah Yeo

Henry Ward

Sunia Turuva

Moses Leota

Dylan Edwards