Nepean News 7 November 2019

free Thursday, 7 November 2019

ISSUE 264

Alex McKenzie B Com

Principal Financial Planner T: (02) 4704 8585 E: alex@futurefinancialservices.com.au W: www.futurefinancialservices.com.au A: Suite 9, 488 High St, Penrith NSW 2750

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LEST WE FORGET Pictured: Copies of government propaganda posters encouraging Australians to join in the first World War. Also pictured: Never to be forgotten local lads Jack Jewry and Luke Gavin. At 11am on the 11th November we will pause to remember them and all others who lost their lives, returned injured and / or sacrificed so much for our great nation.

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By KeRRIE DAVIES

M

ember for Londonerry, Prue Car has joined some hospital staff members in a campaign to increase security at Nepean Hospital. Ms Car said as part of the campaign, 1000 letters from the local community were handed to Stuart Ayers MP last week.

A Hospital Security Officer and NSW Police Force Officer received wounds from a gun shot in the emergency department in January 2016.

“On October 4, 2018 a man was shot in the stomach by police in the Nepean Hospital car park after he threatened officers with two knives and claimed he had bombs in his car in the Hospital carpark,” Ms Car said.

“On the 17 June 2019 three Hospital Security Officers were assaulted by a patient.”

Hospital staff are calling for an increased presence of Hospital Security Officers at Nepean Hospital and Prue Car is supporting the call to protect our frontline health workers.

The Health Services Union and Penrith Valley Community Union have gathered more than 1000 letters from the community on this issue, which were handed to Stuart Ayers MP, last week.

“We have seen concerning incidents of assaults on our front line hospital staff at Nepean Hospital.

It’s imperative we support them and I urge the NSW Liberal Government to support increasing hospital security staff without delay,” Prue Car said.

The letter outlines the incidents aforementioned

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Calls for more security patioman

Prue at Nepean Hospital with staff supporting the campaign.

and calls for increased security. It also asks “for all Hospital Security Officers to be given legal powers to proactively intervene in protecting staff, patients and visitors along with the necessary equipment to keep people safe at Nepean Hospital.”

We received this at the time of going to press on Monday night so we will contact Mr Ayres and print any response we receive in the next edition.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

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

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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A poem by Tomas Hamilton - St Marys Sub-Branch

Sydney Heads came into view, we were finally home So many comrades left behind, to rest neath foreign loam Yet with all the cheering, the laughter and the toasts Our nation shared the burden, of sixty thousand ghosts Each of us a father, a brother, or a son Everyone a volunteer, our duty we’d not shun A tin leg my souvenir, that came at such a price For the soldier always loses, when the devil rolls the dice The newspapers sang out our praise. “Heroes of the day!”

But the nightmares and the shaking, would never go away Though we tried to settle down, some could just not cope A simple funeral notice, for those who gave up hope I was soon to realise, my dreams I would forgo A new suit and a ticket home, were all I had to show With little time to settle down, I was back to planting crops For a one legged farmer, it seemed life never stops We had all bravely faced, the horrors of mankind The memories of the western front, would always haunt my mind We were part of history, victors on the throne We won the war to end all wars.

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enrith City Council is asking the community what its vision is for an iconic City Park to be created in the heart of the city centre.

The new $12 million park will reinforce Penrith’s role as a major Western Sydney centre for business, employment and urban living.

The 7500sqm park will be strategically located on the corner of Station and Henry Streets and feature a large, open green space as its central theme.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said Council had been preparing for the City Park for a number of years and now was the time to capture community aspirations that will guide the final designs.

“Penrith stands on the cusp of an economic boom unprecedented in our city’s history and now is the time to take advantage of this increased activity by creating a new green space for current and future residents, visitors and workers to enjoy,” Cr Fowler said.

“We have many ideas for what may feature in the new City Park, which will be a smart and vibrant focal-point for Penrith, much like Hyde Park is for Sydney City.

“It’s important that local residents and businesses have a say in the final design of a project of this magnitude, so we are inviting everyone in the

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Stuart Ayres MP Member for Penrith community to tell us what they want to see in our City Park.

“We believe the Park should feature key elements that will support its role as a green refuge in the heart of a growing urban Western Sydney city.

Preliminary concepts for the park feature mature trees and lots of plantings to provide a cool refuge in summer as well as playful water elements and an amenity building to support community, civic and cultural events.

Expected to be delivered in 2023, City Park is likely to have smart, sustainable inclusions public art and quality finishes to furniture including seats and bubblers.

You can help inform the design of City Park through Council’s online ‘Your Say Penrith’ portal at http://penrith.city/citypark.

Submissions are open until 13 December 2019.

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

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

New park in CBD

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he new boat ramp at Tench Reserve has been officially opened by the Hon. Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne, Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh, State Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres and Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. The $6.7million upgrade funded by the Australian Government, NSW Government and Penrith City Council, involved construction of a new three lane boat ramp, additional car and trailer parking as well as car only parking, jetties and access roads.

Penrith City Council project managed the construction of the ramp with funding from the Australian Government’s Community Development Grants (CDG), NSW Government’s Better Boating Now and Council reserves.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM thanked the Australian and State Governments saying the upgraded facilities on the Nepean River will be well utilised over summer.

“This project would not be possible without the three levels of government working together to provide much needed infrastructure to the people of Penrith and Western Sydney,” Cr Fowler said.

“The quality of the final product is

Federal Member for Lindsay Melissa McIntosh MP, Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM, Senator for Western Sydney and Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Marise Payne and Member for Penrith Minister for Jobs, Infrastructure, Tourism and Western Sydney, the Hon. Stuart Ayres cut the ribbon to officially open the new boat ramp at Tench Reserve.

a testament to the Council staff who managed the project from its inception, to design and construction ahead of its final delivery for the community.

“The Nepean River, and the surrounds, are a natural asset that are enjoyed by hundreds of thousand of people each year. The river offers a

wide range of leisure and recreation opportunities which people come to Penrith to enjoy.

“Boating and water activities on the river are incredibly popular during the warmer months. The new facilities will offer a safer experience for anyone wanting to get out on the water while

providing plenty of parking.”

The new ramp provides another integral piece of the ‘Our River Masterplan’ which outlines Council’s commitment to protect and celebrate the River and to better connect the community and residents to this spectacular natural resource.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

New boat ramp improves access to river

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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Penrith Nashos appreciative of cheque donation

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Marie Kucelj, Harry May and Mick McConnell.

n Sunday 20th October, Mick McConnell of Penrith City RSL Sub Branch presented Harry May with a cheque for $2,000 at the Penrith National Servicemen’s Association monthly meeting.

“This donation is very welcomed as it will help our Nasho’s in many ways, including being able to provide them with a bus trip or two as this is the only time some of them can get out and enjoy them selves,” said Maureen Gildart.

“We will also put some of the money towards welfare and the costs of running the Penrith Nasho’s.

“We are a voluntary organisation with our members getting on in years and often needing assistance.

“Penrith Nasho’s would also like to welcome back Mick McConnell as a member of Penrith Nasho’s.

“Mick has been the President for over two and a half years of Penrith City RSL Sub Branch and is dedicated to helping veterans. Almost all of our members are veterans and also members of Penrith RSL Sub Branch, and they thanked Mick and were extremely appreciative of the donation.”

South Creek floodplain plan on show Penrith City Council is in the final stages of preparing a floodplain risk management study and plan for the South Creek floodplain, which stretches from Berkshire Park to Luddenham.

“Planning for potential flood events is one of the many ways Penrith Council takes action to protect its residents and ensure they are prepared for natural disasters,” said Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM. “Making sure the drainage infrastructure is capable of handling heavy rainfall and procedures are in place in case of flooding is essential to the safety and well-being of our residents.

“This is why we want to make sure affected residents have the opportunity to comment on floodplain management plans that affect their area.

“This transparent approach to local flood planning is designed to ensure our residents are fully informed about what is happening in their neighbourhood.

“Community consultation is an important part of Council planning. By including local feedback

means we can develop plans that are relevant and include information that only local residents can provide.

“This is why we have written to residents in the South Creek catchment area, seeking their comments on the draft study and plan,” he said.

Letters and a factsheet containing a summary of the draft floodplain risk management study and plan have been sent out by mail to all those living within the study area. The information is also on the council web page and people living in those areas are encouraged to come along to drop-in sessions.

They will be held at St Marys Memorial Hall, Corner of Great Western Highway and Mamre Road, St Marys on Wednesday 13 November 2019, from 6pm-8pm and at Llandilo Community Hall, 257c Seventh Avenue, Llandilo on Thursday 14 November 2019, from 6pm-8pm. In both cases, there will be a detailed presentation starting at 6.30pm.

The process also looks at making the community

more resilient and prepared, including evacuation education and preparation.

The draft study reports can be viewed: • Online South Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study (pdf 91.1MB) South Creek Floodplain Risk Management Plan (pdf 21.8MB) In person at: • Penrith Library and Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith, or • St Marys Library, 207-209 Queen St, St Marys.

The South Creek study area covers that part of the South Creek floodplain in the Penrith LGA bounded

by Elizabeth Drive to the south, The Northern Road to the west, Ropes Creek to the east and Blacktown Road/Richmond Road to the north. The study area covers the suburbs of Berkshire Park, Llandilo, Werrington, Werrington County, St Marys, Oxley Park, Claremont Meadows, St Clair, Erskine Park, Twin Creeks, Mount Vernon and Luddenham.

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expansion goals while improving operational efficiencies and reducing company transfer costs.

“The proximity will have many positive effects, including reducing our transfer costs and – from a sustainability perspective – lowering our carbon footprint, with less transport required,” O-I Project Manager Denis Conway said.

O-I has manufactured glass from its Penrith facility on an adjacent site for almost 50 years, employing approximately 250 people. It currently produces more than four million glass bottles and jars a day to be distributed to breweries, wineries and food operators.

It’s estimated the new facility will generate dozens of permanent new jobs and require up to 500 construction workers and tradespeople during the 10-month build period.

As the Member for Penrith, Mr Ayres said the new warehouse and logistics facility reinforced the confidence businesses have in the Western Sydney economy.

“Manufacturing glass in Penrith since 1971 and employing 250 people O-I Penrith is the largest glass container manufacturing plant in the country,” he said.

“Producing an impressive four million bottles and jars a day it’s fantastic to see this expansion taking place.”

Cr. Fowler said Penrith had a proud tradition of manufacturing, acknowledging O-I’s commitment to the city. He said major projects such as the new warehouse is what fuels interest and business confidence.

“This investment and commitment is confirmation of the potential in our city, and the positive transformation of

“

Western Sydney,” he said.

“Today, the sector employs more than 7,800 local people and it’s our most productive industry, generating $858 million of value add to the Penrith economy.

“And it’s a sector that is set to grow.

With Western Sydney Airport and the Aerotropolis rising on our border, the potential of our city and region is capturing attention.”

Owens-Illinois, Inc., is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of packaging products and is the largest manufacturer of glass containers in North America, South America, AsiaPacific and Europe. It has established a reputation for championing the use of recyclable and sustainable materials. O-I’s 78 international plants, including four in Australia, generated a revenue of $6.88b in the 2018 calendar year.

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adence Property Group has broken ground on Sydney’s largest warehouse, an $80million facility in Penrith for international glass manufacturer and distributor Owens-Illinois, Inc. (NYSE: O-I).

The Melbourne-based developer spent a year working with O-I on the 50,000 square metre warehouse and logistics facility at 128 Andrews Road, Penrith, with an anticipated construction time frame of 10 months.

Cadence Managing Director Charlie Buxton, Member for Penrith, Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney the Hon. Stuart Ayres MP and Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler broke ground onsite this week, alongside representatives from O-I and construction company Texco.

The facility will be built adjacent to O-I’s existing manufacturing plant, allowing its warehousing requirements to be brought onto the same site as its manufacturing operation.

Mr Buxton said a range of custom design solutions will be integrated into the new facility including the installation of automated material handling equipment and ESD initiatives to reduce running costs.

He said Sydney is following Melbourne’s lead where national and international companies were investing millions of dollars into purpose-built warehousing and logistics facilities to generate cost savings through consolidation and operational efficiencies.

“This is the first of what we expect to be many cutting-edge industrial warehousing projects in NSW,” Mr Buxton said.

“We’ve worked closely with O-I, the State Government and Penrith Council for more than 12 months on bringing this solution to fruition and to reach this milestone is testament to the hard work put in by all stakeholders.”

CBRE National Director Trevor O’Grady negotiated the deal.

The new facility is in line with O-I’s push for greater sustainability measures and will meet the manufacturer’s

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Construction begins on $80million Sydney super shed

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Western News 8 November 2019 Issue 97

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Western News

Cranebrook fire station to welcome new recruit

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith has announced that Cranebrook Fire Station is set to welcome new firefighter, Erin Martin who graduated at the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Emergency Services Academy in Western Sydney on Friday.

Stuart Ayres said Erin has signed up for one of the most demanding and important jobs in the Penrith community.

“These recent graduates have proven themselves capable of meeting the challenges of being a firefighter over months of intense training, and we are lucky to have them on the front line keeping our community safe,” Stuart Ayres said.

Minister for Emergency Services, David Elliott congratulated the recruits and welcomed them into the firefighting family.

“They are a special group of men and women and the first of a new generation of firefighters to start their

journey and hone their lifesaving skills at the FRNSW Emergency Services Academy.”

FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the graduates had proven their abilities over months of intense training.

“These recruits have shown they have the diverse skills, capabilities and talents required to undertake the varied work that our firefighters do – from educating the community about fire safety and providing emergency medical care to responding to natural disasters and hazmat incidents,” Mr Baxter said.

“They’ve been trained to be prepared for anything and I know they will uphold the high standards of integrity, courage and professionalism expected of a FRNSW firefighter.”

This is the third FRNSW graduation in 2019 with another ceremony scheduled for later in the year to bolster frontlines across the State.

The G Spot Premature Decoration! Here we are in November and it is happening, the dreaded Christmas decorations.

Just when you thought it was safe to leave your homes and venture out into the vulnerable world of the shopping centre, there you have it, just like your mother slapping you across the face after coming home drunk for the first time. The premature decorators!!!!!

I call them The PD club (Why am I hearing jaws music)?

Have you ever watched Crime Stoppers and thought, I never knew that he or she was capable of that? The neighbours are interviewed they say, “he was a quiet person, lovely family, I never knew that this street could house people like that,” and then look shocked.

Well the PD club are like that, they just look like meek and mild people, harmless and quiet, but deep down

that are hiding a secret, perhaps even hiding tinsel in the wardrobe, who knows? But once they are out together, anything is possible. Similar to the zombie apocalypse?

Scientists still can’t work out the chemical imbalance in the PD’ers brain that gives them to urge to pull out the odd Santa and tree before December.

Statistics have shown that most grow up and run shopping centres, department stores, kid’s warehouses and the most hardened PD’s usually run department stores in the city where they can PD in about August.

Thankfully they are testing drugs at the moment that may stabilise the chemical imbalance to make PD’s actually want to start decorating in December. Trials have begun.

So as a security professional I am not really sure how to stop the PD club,

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

however I can tell you that Christmas time is a great time for the baddies to come out and play. A couple of years ago a business near our business office left the gate unlocked, left for the Xmas shut down and boom the opportunist struck. All over Christmas in fact!

Hey, the buildings were alarmed but all the stuff in the yard (worth mega dollars) was laying there in all its glory, saying take me, pick me!!!!

There was a very well-executed clean out that lasted the entire weekend, because the baddies knew that this business was closed for business. How? Because it had a sign on it saying, back on what-ever date.

“Yippee,” the baddies screamed and happily cleaned them out of all the stock in the yard - 30 grand of crafted sandstone, to be exact.

Thankfully, good old NRS (my security company) was across the road

and with the use of our cameras, the offenders were tracked down, caught and some stock returned. The other stuff was sold, oh and of course they burnt a truck out as well.

So let me ask you this? How would losing 30 grand from your business affect your operations? How would losing 30 grand from your house affect you?

So while you may say, “nah we will be right mate!” think about your security needs over Chrissy. Alarms, cameras, patrols, guards or whatever!

There are some things I can help you with and some things that I can’t, such as shopping and listening to “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas” in Coles on a 36 degree day in November.

So there you have it, the PD club will overrun us one day, think about your security and may your Christmas shopping begin!

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By CONNER LOWE

W

estern Sydney Wanderers FC are proud to announce that captain Mitchell Duke and defenders Dylan McGowan and Patrick Ziegler will be the club’s new Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney (RMHC GWS) Ambassadors.

The announcement came in time of the club’s annual Ronald McDonald House fixture last Saturday against Brisbane Roar.

Over the course of the partnership, Wanderers players and club officials have regularly given their time in support of the various events and programs the charity provides for families throughout the year.

A favourite day in the Wanderers calendar is when the players and staff visit the House and cook a healthy home-cooked meal for families who have spent a long day in the hospital ward with their seriously ill child. It is a chance for players and staff to meet families, hear their stories and offer a little support during their journey.

By acknowledging RMHC Greater Western Sydney at Saturday’s match against the Roar, and including families from Ronald McDonald House Greater Western Sydney as part of the game-day experience, the Wanderers really are keeping families close.

Belinda Woolford, Chief Executive Officer at Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney said the house was honoured to have the Wanderers’ support.

“We’re forever grateful to the Wanderers for their ongoing support of seriously ill children and their

families,” she said.

“When the players visit the house, you can see the impact immediately, spirits are lifted, which is priceless”.

John Tsatsimas, Western Sydney Wanderers CEO said he was proud of the club’s long-standing relationship with the charity.

“The Wanderers are so proud of our long-standing relationship with Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Western Sydney,” he said.

“When we visit the house, we all walk away with a little more perspective and are grateful for the

opportunity to bring a smile to the faces of the children in the house.”

Mitchell Duke, Captain of Western Sydney Wanderers said the relationship with the house was a special one for him.

“It means a lot to me and I’m very proud to be an ambassador actually, especially having my own son that’s three years old,” said Duke.

“To see such young kids fighting and battling with such bad things is tough to see, but it’s also inspirational that they are such fighters and battle every day for what we take for granted.”

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Wanderers announce Ambassadors for Ronald McDonald Charity

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local news

By Noel Rowsell

M

aureen Gildart has just been appointed to the Executive Committee of the Penrith RSL Sub-Branch and will also take up the role of Media Officer.

Whilst at first glance that may appear to be an everyday community announcement, Maureen is the first woman to be appointed to the role of Secretary and thereby also the first woman to be appointed to the Executive Committee of the Penrith RSL SubBranch.

“It was a great honour to be the first woman appointed to the role of Secretary,” said Maureen.

“I identified that the Media portfolio needed urgent attention due to Remembrance Day in the Vice Presidents area of duties so I adopted this portfolio.”

Taking on perhaps the busiest role on the Executive, Maureen is no stranger to hard work and achievements in both her personal and business life.

“I have been fortunate to be the first woman in a number of roles during my life, including the first woman to serve in the 2 Ordnance Services Unit, Glebe in the Australian Army,” said Maureen.

“In 1980 I was involved with the Human Rights & Anti-Discrimination Commission under Justice Irene Moss, which abolished the height and weight requirements for the Police, Fire Brigade and Ambulance and resulted in the first woman joining the NSW Fire Brigade.”

“Equal Employment Opportunities are now in

existence at all levels of Australian life.”

“In 1982, I was involved in a traffic accident in which the other driver was under the influence,” said Maureen.

“Under legislation at the time, I was required to find and identify the vehicle, rather than the driver and this pursuit took a number of years.”

“However, I was successful and following my campaigning, the Random Breath Testing laws were brought into operation in 1987.”

Maureen is already the first Public Relations Officer, first female Welfare Officer and Publicity Officer for the Penrith branch of the NSW National Servicemen’s Association & Affiliates Inc. (Nashos) and is currently working hard to organise this year’s Remembrance Day celebrations, which will take place at 10.40am on 11th November at Memory Park, Penrith.

Maureen said “The Penrith RSL Sub-Branch Executive invite all members, current and exserving members of our armed forces, friends and the general public to the Remembrance Day celebration at Memory Park, Penrith on 11th November, 2019.”

“Please arrive by 10.30am for a start to proceedings at 10.40am.”

You can now opt in for a digital driver’s licence

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tuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that NSW drivers can now go wallet less and use a Digital Driver Licence on their smartphone for proof of identity and proof of age for pubs and clubs, and for roadside police checks, with the technology officially going live.

“Drivers in Penrith are encouraged to download the DDL and give it a go,” said Stuart Ayres.

“Smartphones have become de facto wallets and we’re using world leading technology so that drivers can use digital licences in everyday scenarios,” Stuart Ayres said.

“The DDL is hosted securely on the new Service NSW app, locks with a PIN and can be accessed offline. It will provide additional levels of security and protection against identity fraud, compared to the plastic driver licence.

“The NSW Government is working closely with other sectors to have them come on board and accept the DDL. This includes nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, petrol stations, supermarkets, convenience stores and tobacco retailers. Watch this space.”

Drivers who opt-in are encouraged to carry their plastic licence in the initial stages.

For more information about how to recognise and accept the DDL visit https://www.service.nsw.gov. au/campaign/digital-driver-licence

To get a DDL, licence holders will need to create a MyServiceNSW Account at www.service.nsw. gov.au and download the Service NSW mobile app on their smartphone. The DDL will always be optin only.

Up-skill your resume with a community college course

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ducation makes a difference and whilst many have used opportunities to take advantage of learning, there are a lot of people out there who for a myriad of reasons did not have the exposure to Unis or TAFEs but have come to the realisation that additional learning can help with their careers, their lifestyle or just hobbies that they want to take to the next level.

One such opportunity that flies under the radar for many is your local Community College. Most places have Community Colleges that are easily accessible and don’t require you to mortgage the kids to attend.

Nepean Community College at High St Penrith is one such example.

The college offers many courses for those who want to improve and learn new skills

which can make a difference to their lives. It may be short courses in diverse ranges such as Accounting, Computers, Photography, Graphics etc.

For many of the participants attending Community Colleges it is their first attempt at additional education or it may be they want to hone their skills for a job they are in or are searching for.

Many College participants have discovered capabilities they never knew they possessed and have gone on to further comprehensive studies in University and TAFEs. For whatever reason you are considering broadening your skill set, you would be well advised to consider checking out your local community college. www.ncc.nsw.edu.au

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Maureen breaks new ground at Sub-branch

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By Noel Rowsell

T

hree local Year 6 schoolchildren from the Penrith District have been awarded the ‘Fred Hollows Humanity Award’, which recognises children who show compassion, integrity and kindness in their every day life, just as Fred Hollows did during his life.

Since 2012, the Award has recognised more than 1,300 Year 6 students across Australia.

Zoe Suthers (Mamre Anglican School), Cooper Humphreys (Penrith PS) and Mia Kuster (Emu Plains PS) are all worthy recipients this year and were each presented with their award by Fred’s widow, Gabi Hollows.

Taryna Wawn, Zoe’s teacher at Mamre Anglican School said “I nominated Zoe because she is just a fabulous all-round, got-it-together child.”

“She (Zoe) is constantly helping around the school and volunteering for whatever’s going on.”

“We have what we call a PAL’s program (Playing And Learning to Socialise), where Year 6 students volunteer at the beginning of the year to be PAL’s to the new kindy kids.”

“That entails being part of a rostered team that spend recess and lunch setting up and running games and play centres for younger students.”

“This year we had an almost 95% take-up in Year 6 which is unheard of in the program’s history, “ said Taryna.

“Zoe was my immediate and only choice regardless of the fact that we have 40 PAL’s volunteers this year.”

“She (Zoe) is always bubbly, eager to assist, happy to be at school and very resilient - which is becoming rare amongst JS children.”

“I couldn’t think of a more deserving student ever, in my 22 years of teaching.”

Nicole Craig, Cooper’s teacher at Penrith PS said “Cooper fearlessly epitomises the qualities of compassion, integrity and kindness every day with a genuine desire to see people shine and sets a tone of kindness in our school.”

“If someone is upset or injured, he (Cooper) is the first to be by their side.”

He listens to others with his whole heart, with gentleness and patience, prompting genuine change.”

“He (Cooper) advocates for those who need it, initiating awareness and fundraising efforts for those with cancer and alerting our conscience to the impact of palm oil on Sumatran tigers.”

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Local kids with big hearts receive esteemed recognition

15

“An avid sportsperson, he (Cooper) often enables others to have the glory moment - he cares.”

Mrs Tara Cremen, Mia’s teacher at Our Lady of the Way, Emu Plains said “Mia has struggled with Anxiety for the past two years and has had to overcome this anxiety to function in her classroom.”

“She (Mia) is a very private person and has kept her worries to herself.”

“Recently she was able to present a Voice of Youth Speech on this topic and has begun fundraising for Kids Helpline, as they have helped her.”

“Mia has shown kindness to peers even when she feels there is conflict and shows a mature and responsible approach to all situations,” said Mrs Cremen.

These are a few of my favourite things Our State Members of Parliament

Prue Car, MP Member for Londonderry 1. Favourie food?

Any sort of curry is my comfort food!

2. Favourite childhood tv show?

So many to choose from but have to admit I was obsessed with Astro Boy. 3. Favourite animal?

Dogs every day.

4. Favourite country other than Australia?

Fiji.

5. Favourite band or singer?

Nothing gets me up and running like ABBA. 6. Favourite game?

Max and I can’t go past a game of Guess Who. 7. Favourite holiday destination?

The South Coast of NSW is my special place.

8. Favourte sport or hobby?

Running around at a playground with my little boy.

9. Favourite movie?

Anne of Green Gables.

10. Favourite famous person?

Is it ok to admit I love reading about the royal family?

Stuart Ayres, MP Member for Penrith 1. Favourite food?

BBQ steak 2. Favourite childhood tv show?

Transformers 3. Favourite animal?

Horses 4. Favourite country other than Australia?

USA 5. Favourite band or singer?

Crowded House or Cold Chisel 6. Favourite game?

Monopoly 7. Favourite holiday destination?

The farm 8. Favourte sport or hobby?

Too many to choose 9. Favourite movie?

Shawshank Redemption 10. Favourite famous person?

Marise Payne

Tanya Davies, MP Member for Mulgoa 1. Favourite food? Almost all pasta varieties, favourite is chicken pesto penne.

2. Favourite childhood tv show? I Dream of Jeannie.

I was fascinated. with the concept of a human that could turn the self into a miniature person and live in an opulent bottle!!!

3. Favourite animal? Giraffe. They are tall, elegant and graceful.

4. Favourite country other than Australia? France.

5. Favourite band or singer? I love anything that has a good dance rhythm and melody.

6. Favourite game? Beat the Parents, Trivial.

Pursuit or anything that tests my knowledge.

7. Favourite holiday destination? Anywhere hot with a beach view, cool breeze, great food and wine and heaps of movies and books to catch up on.

8. Favourite sport or hobby? Scrapbooking for Laura and Harry.

9. Favourite movie? Pride and Prejudice.

10. Favourite famous person? William Wilberforce, Winston Churchill and Helen Keller.

Legends of the Nepean Jim Devine

By Noel Rowsell

J

im Devine (Emu Plains) has appeared quite regularly in local papers but the Publicity Officer for the Emu Plains Lions Club is usually acknowledging others, rather than receiving any plaudits himself.

Jim is a busy man, with his commitments with Lions including ‘Youth of the Year’ Chairman, Webmaster, Publicity Officer and Editor of the Lions Emu Plains Newsletter.

Born in Penrith in 1954, he attended St Marys PS and HS, before joining a Public Accounting firm and obtaining his Bachelor of Business Degree.

Jim worked for Channel 10 from 1978-1981, Malaysian Airlines from 1981-1986, East-West Airlines from 1986-1987, All Nippon Airways from 1987-2002 (Industrial Relations for Overseas Airlines excluding Qantas), United Airlines from 2003-2007 (Change Manager), ATS (Stella/Jetset Travelworld Group) 2007- and part-

owner with wife Cheryl of Parkinson Real Estate-Emu Plains from 19921998.

Whilst travelling to work in the City in 1977, Jim was on board the ill-fated Blue Mountains train which crashed into the Bold Street Bridge in Granville.

Jim recalls in a Facebook article “The morning of 18 January 1977 was just like any other and I boarded the ‘mountains’ train service (6:09 from Mt Vic) at Penrith station, on route to Central, with my ultimate destination being Milsons Point, where I was employed as an accountant with an international commodity trading company.”

Having not found a seat in the 3rd carriage, Jim had moved into the 2nd carriage and was therefore one of the lucky commuters not seated in the 3rd and 4th carriages on that day.

Following the crash and derailment, Jim made his way out and began assisting passengers down from his carriage to the train tracks below.

“Time was ‘strange’ … it seems it was so shortly after the initial

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Jim Devine was nominated as a Legend of the Nepean by Kerrie Davies.

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

derailment that the sirens started and emergency services personnel started to arrive,” said Jim. At some time after the accident and being interviewed by the Police, Jim hailed a taxi and headed for home, relaying the story of his train trip to a gob-smacked cabbie, who obliged by not charging for the trip.

“On arrival at home, I was literally spun around several times by Cheryl, as what was showing on the television was hard to ‘apply’ to the physical’ being in the lounge room,” said Jim. “The only real tell-tale sign was the wooden splinters and dust through my hair, from the ‘disintegrating’ wooden carriage walls and roof.”

“Shock hit home as I took in the enormity of the event showing in the television coverage.”

“I remember opening the bottle of scotch … I don’t remember finishing it!”

“In March of 1978, I was awarded the Granville Train Disaster Medal for courage in my assistance to fellow passengers.”

“I did not attend the medal presentation, as by my reasoning my efforts were something ‘anyone’ would do.”

“Again, in my mind, the medals were for those tireless and fearless front line emergency staff, who had to deal with the 80-odd deaths and many

more injured passengers.

It took 40 years but Jim now has the medal and associated paperwork framed and proudly hanging on the wall of his study.

“I can now say, I am both humbled by and proud of it,” he said.

“I only knew one person who tragically lost their life in the crash - Ms Alma Brown, Office Manager of the Miscellaneous Workers Union [MWU] another of my audit clients 1972-1976. RIP) During his time in the Airline Industry, Jim twice appeared before the Industrial Relations Commission representing a staggering 27 airlines on their behalf.

Jim married wife Cheryl in the Holsworthy Army Chapel in 1972 and the couple now have 2 children and 4 grandchildren.

Cheryl was a noted track athlete as a junior and during her school years, broke all of renowned Australian representative Marjorie Jackson’s school records.

Cheryl is now a Life Member of Emu Plains Little Athletics and Emu Plains Netball Club.

Jim was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2007 but has refused to let his condition slow him down, joining Lions in 2013 and serving continuously (and tirelessly) from that date.

Jim had joined the Emu Plains Little Athletics Club in the 80’s, serving as Treasurer in 1985/86, Chairman in 1986/87 and 1990/91.

In 2018, Jim was presented with the Premier’s Community Services Award by Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith, which recognised Jim’s efforts in opening up many opportunities for young people across our region.

On Remembrance Day we honour those who sacrificed and fought to defend our nation and values.

We remind all Australians, including our younger generations, of the importance of the Remembrance Day tradition and pay tribute to those who have proudly served our nation in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

We also remember all of our local fallen.

Lest we forget.

REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2019

O

n 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after four years of continuous warfare. With their armies retreating and close to collapse, German leaders signed an Armistice, bringing to an end the First World War. From the summer of 1918, the five divisions of the Australian Corps had been at the forefront of the allied advance to victory.

Beginning with their stunning success at the battle of Hamel in July, they helped to turn the tide of the war at Amiens in August, followed by the capture of Mont St Quentin and Pèronne, and the breaching of German defences at the Hindenburg Line in September. By early October the exhausted Australians were withdrawn from battle. They had achieved a fighting reputation out of proportion to their numbers, but victory had come at a heavy cost. They suffered almost 48,000 casualties during 1918, including more than 12,000 dead.

In the four years of the war more than 330,000 Australians had served overseas, and more than 60,000 of them had died. The social effects of these losses cast a long shadow over the postwar decades.

Each year on this day we observe one minute’s silence at 11am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Remembrance Day 2019: Lest We Forget

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“On this Remembrance Day in commemoration of the Centenary of Armistice we pay tribute to those past and present who served our Country and sacrificed their lives with courage and conviction.”

Tanya Davies Member for Mulgoa

TRICIA HITCHEN Councillor Penrith City Council Phone 0417 365 313

“ We will remember them, today & every day.”

Ross Fowler OAM MAYOR 0419 738 484

REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2019

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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St Marys Remembers

W

ith Remembrance Day almost upon us once again, St Marys RSL sub-Branch has taken a breath, and a moment to ponder the tremendous activities that our local community participated in over the Centenary of ANZAC Commemoration period. Consider the hundreds of students and others in our wider St Marys community who played a significant part in honouring not only those who paid the ultimate sacrifice through their service in that ghastly World War One (1914-1918), but to all who have served and sacrificed then and since, to ensure that we can, today, enjoy the wonderful free country that we experience now.

During the Centenary period, St Marys RSL sub-Branch has been instrumental in instigating or carrying out upgrades to all official War Memorials in the St Marys area – the Bandstand at Victoria Park (where a Remembrance Day Service will be conducted at 10.30am on Monday 11th November); the Munitions memorial adjacent to Lang Park; the nearby Kokoda Park; and the sub-Branch’s own War Memorial at the Guns enclosure at St Marys RSL Club. Penrith City Council has been most helpful with these works.

To summarise the overall period commemorations involving St Marys RSL sub-Branch, the following table encapsulates the efforts of community groups across the greater area of St Marys from 2014 to this year:

COUNCILLOR

2014

2015

• With help in particular from Penrith City Council and St Marys Historical Society, we identified 162 local lads and ladies who left our shores to participate in that dreadful conflict.

• They came from all areas across the ‘old’ St Marys Council area, from Kemps Creek to Cambridge Park; from the Northern Road to Ropes Creek.

• We enlisted the support of 30 local Primary and Secondary Schools to take on 5 or 6 of these WW1 heroes and research them to provide a page or two to describe just who they were; they also were provided with small wooden crosses to decorate for each person researched.

• The research submissions were collated and a resultant 244-page book entitled “St Marys Served Australia in World War 1” was provided to all stakeholders.

• The crosses were included as a focal point in both our ANZAC Services that year.

In the Sunday Service, the students placed their crosses in the shape of a large cross.

• Additional names were uncovered after the project commenced and could not be included in the school activity but were remembered just the same.

john thain

This year I will be remembering the centenary of Armistice and paying homage to both my Granfathers who were on the Western Front.

While they made it back we honour those who didn’t.

Lest We Forget.

2016

• The Crosses were carefully burned in a pre-Service ceremony at the Sunday ANZAC Service that year.

• The ashes from that burning were preserved and taken by RSL sub-Branch members who visited Pozieres (and other WW1 battlesites in Europe) that year.

• There the ashes were ceremonially dispersed across the Pozieres battlefield - a field where more Australian blood has been shed in conflict than in any location on earth.

ON REMEMBRANCE DAY WE PAUSE TO REFLECT ON THE SACRIFICE OF THOSE WHO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE TO SERVE OUR COUNTRY, AS WELL AS THOSE CURRENTLY DOING SO. LEST WE FORGET.

Prue Car MP Member for Londonderry

John Thain: 0411 427 812 john.thain@penrithcity

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

REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2019 2019

2018 • Time for reflection on the losses over the full dreadful period.

• A significant joint Remembrance activity at the Penrith Paceway in November where hundreds of students and local community either marched or watched, then participated in a splendid Remembrance Day Service; this was followed by many community artistry groups and displays throughout the day.

• This year is a time to explore St Marys’ recovery from that difficult conflict and the continued support for our military personal and acknowledgement of their sacrifices.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

2017

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• The RSL sub-Branch members who visited Europe the previous year returned with a quantity of soil from the Pozieres and Mouquet Farm battlesites and several buckles, bullet casings, etc., from those battlefields.

• The soil was subsequently properly treated before it and other relics were encased in presentation display cases - one case presented to each school for them to use as a focal point in future school ANZAC or Remembrance Services.

President of the St Marys RSL sub-Branch, Ron Blakely, invites all in our community to join with subBranch members and school students at Victoria Park for this year’s Remembrance Day Service which will commence soon after 10.30am. The Service will run through till about 11.10am. Those wishing to lay a tribute will be given an opportunity to do so during the Tribute Ceremony. Those with military service are asked to wear jacket and medals.

Lest we Forget.

ST MARYS RSL SUB-BRANCH

Returned and Services League of Australia

Remembrance Day Service

Lest We Forget

11 NOVEMBER Memory Park, HIGH ST, Penrith | 10.40AM START

Monday 11th November 2019

The Penrith RSL Sub-Branch Executive invite all members, current and ex-serving members of our armed forces, friends and the general public to the Remembrance Day celebration at Memory Park, Penrith on 11th November, 2019.

Victoria Park – WW1 Memorial

Please arrive by 10.30am for a start to proceedings at 10.40am.

at

Cnr Great Western Highway & Pages Rd, St Marys Commences at 10.40am All in the St Marys community are invited to pay homage to all who lost their lives in war; Special reflection on the impacts of WW1 locally and recovery in the local area.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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REMEMBRANCE DAY ~ 11 NOVEMBER 2019 An Australian soldier saved my life

T

heogene Ngamije was just a small boy when a simple act of kindness by an Australian peacekeeper changed his life.

Ngamije had been separated from his parents in a refugee camp in Rwanda in 1994 and thought his life was over.

“No day was easy,” he said. “I was five to six years old and most of us were in a refugee camp in Kibeho. Bombings, shootings started happening…

I was scared, of course… intimidated and hungry.

“I was seated down, crying, not knowing where to go and … an Australian soldier gave me an Australian national flag – the patch, the one that normally goes on their uniform – and gave me a piece of biscuit…

“He lifted me up, put me on his shoulder and took me to safety where the other kids were. He saved me and he gave me a different understanding of what soldiers do.”

More than 20 years later, Ngamije is now a private in the Australian army. He shares his story in The courage for peace exhibition, which opened at the Australian War Memorial recently.

Curator Margaret Farmer said the exhibition tells the story of what Australians do to make, shape and keep peace, with themes of courage, hope, partnership and shared humanity.

“The Courage for Peace tells the story of Australia’s peacemakers, peacekeepers, disasterrelief workers and capacity builders, who work strategically, and courageously, to avert tragedy and build peace,” Farmer said.

“The exhibition does this through a focus on Australia’s recent peacekeeping and humanitarian

operations in the Asia–Pacific, and Australia’s diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict, including in support of the United Nations and the international rules-based order.”

The exhibition features a number of objects – including a heavily damaged window salvaged from the Australian Embassy in Jakarta following the 2004 bombing – and focuses on the experiences, reflections and personal perspectives of those individuals who have contributed to Australia’s efforts towards peace.

Their stories are told in a powerful audio visual

production, which was generously supported by Rotary, a non-profit organisation that has been committed to advancing peace and working on conflict resolution in troubled areas around the world for many decades.

“Hearing directly from those who work towards peace,” Farmer said. “You can’t help but be impressed by their commitment and courage.”

The courage for peace opened in the Memorial’s Special Exhibition Gallery on 18 October, and will be displayed for approximately 12 months.

YOUR 3-BIN SYSTEM We’re excited that rural properties in Penrith City have joined the 55,0000 households using the 3-bin waste service in July 2019. The 3-bin service reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill and improves recycling rates while maintaining low domestic waste charges (the fees you pay).

What does this mean?

On the 3-bin system you have a weekly green-lid bin for all your food and garden organics.

That means you need to sort your waste with all food and garden waste going in the green-lid bin significantly reducing the amount of waste going into your red-lid bin, and into landfill.

The green-lid bin goes out every week while the yellow-lid recycling bin and red-lid residual garbage bin go out on alternate weeks.

Choosing the right bins

There are a range of service options you can choose to make sure you have the right size bins for your needs.

If you are leasing your property, please consider your tenants’ needs when selecting.

We recommend the Sustainable service - this is the cheapest option and should provide ample capacity once you’re using the green-lid bin.

Why is this good for me?

Penrith is a recognised leader in sustainable waste management, particularly in household organic waste recycling. Council is committed to actively supporting our community to reduce waste sent to landfill through reducing, reusing, recycling and generally disposing of waste responsibly.

The 3-bin Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) system is one of the best ways we can reach those goals.

It’s good for the environment and also helps keep the waste cost in your rates down.

If you have any questions, please contact Council’s Waste Services team on 4732 7777 and our friendly staff will help you with your request.

COUNCIL SUPPLIED GREEN COMPOSTABLE BAGS What are the bags for?

The green compostable bags are supplied by Penrith Council for the Green-lid organics bin. They are specially designed and have been tested to break down during the six week composting process.

how do i use them?

Food and other organic waste can be collected in the bag, tied off and put into the green-lid organics bin. Council’s kitchen tidy bin can assist with food scrap collection. If you would like a kitchen tidy bin, they are available for purchase from Council offices in Penrith or St Marys at a cost of $11*.

Alternatively, you can use the bags to line a container of your own choosing.

how often are they delivered?

Green compostable bags are delivered free of charge to every household with the 3-Bin Waste Service four times a year.

how do i get more?

If you need more bags, you can collect extras from the Penrith or St Marys Office, or at the Council Libraries, located at Penrith, St Marys and St Clair.

Alternatively, bulkier or excess food waste can be wrapped in newspaper, or placed loosely in the green lid organics bin.

can i use other bags?

No. Please do not use other bags, even if they are advertised as biodegradable or compostable as they may not meet the standards required by our composting facility. The use of any other types of bags will be treated as contamination and will be disposed of in landfill.

do the bags expire?

These bags will last at least 12 months if stored correctly. Please store the bags in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent bags from breaking down prematurely.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT BINS Council offers a number of services and bin options to suit every household.

We recommend the Sustainable service - this is the cheapest option and should provide ample capacity once you’re using the green-lid bin.

Choosing is easy Call us on 4732 7777 and one of our Waste Services team will help you.

local news

C

oreen Avenue and RSPCA NSW have been holding regular vaccination clinics in the community in an effort to create a Parvo-Free Penrith by 2020. While we have seen a decline in the number of cases, we are currently experiencing a spike in positive cases diagnosed at the clinic. For this reason, we are urging pet owners to check their dog’s vaccination status.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious disease which causes an infectious gastrointestinal illness in puppies and young dogs, and without treatment, it is potentially fatal.

Parvovirus spreads either by direct contact with an infected dog, or through faeces. Unfortunately, an infected dog can begin shedding the virus after exposure, often before

the dog starts exhibiting any clinical signs of infection including vomiting, bloody diarrhoea and lethargy. The dog will continue to shed the virus while he is sick and for a period of time after it has recovered. This means that accurate diagnosis and quarantine are essential for the health of your dog and of other dogs, as well.

It is important to note that dogs who do not leave their yard are also at risk of contracting this disease.

Young dogs between six weeks and six months old, unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated dogs are most at risk for contracting parvo.

Our current vaccines are excellent at stimulating immunity against Parvovirus but it is important to talk to your veterinarian about the full course of vaccinations that your dog needs.

Puppies who nursed on their mother’s milk have maternal antibodies in their blood that may block the immune system from responding to initial vaccines. These circulating maternal antibodies protect them from bacterial and viral assault while the puppy’s immune system is maturing. As the puppy ages, the maternal antibody levels decline. It is

extremely important that your puppy receives all three vaccines in their puppy program otherwise it may not be fully covered against Parvovirus moving into adulthood. We regularly vaccinate against Parvovirus every 3-4 weeks starting around 6 to 8 weeks of age to increase the likelihood that as the maternal antibodies are falling, the lower levels don’t leave the puppy exposed to disease but instead, the immune system is activated.

Parvovirus is a particularly resilient virus. It can survive in the environment for up to twelve months and is resistant to many common household cleaners and disinfectants.

This is why hospital quarantine of the infected dog and proper cleanup of the environment are especially important.

Understanding Parvovirus in dogs is the first step toward preventing the spread of this deadly disease. Please contact your veterinarian to check that your dog is up to date with their vaccinations and help us work towards a Parvo-Free Penrith by 2020.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Understanding Parvovirus

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

Can you help reunite these pets with their families?

When a pet goes missing it is a particularly distressing time for any owner. And by the look on the faces of some of these local pets who’ve been found, it can be pretty distressing for the pet as well.

Have you seen any of our missing pets?

Do you recognise any of the pets who have been found?

There’s a facebook page called Penrith Area Lost and Found Animals and they are exceptionally good at reuniting lost pets with their owners. If you have any information regarding any of our featured pets, please head to the page and scroll for the owner’s information. Alternatively, if you don’t use facebook feel free to call us on 9834 5579 and we will hook you up!

FOUND CRANEBROOK

MISSING CAMBRIDGE PARK

MISSING JORDAN SPRINGS

FOUND COLYTON

FOUND

JORDAN SPRINGS

FOUND REGENTVILLE

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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HEALTH

Think F.A.S.T Act F.A.S.T

T

he Stroke Foundation recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs of stroke.

Using the F.A.S.T. test involves asking these simple questions: Face: Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?

Arms: Can they lift both arms?

Speech: Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?

Time Is critical: If you see any of

these signs call 000 straight away.

Think F.A.S.T. act FAST A stroke is always a medical emergency. The longer a stroke remains untreated, the greater the chance of stroke-related brain damage.

Emergency medical treatment soon after symptoms begin improves the chance of survival and successful rehabilitation.

Facial weakness, arm weakness and difficulty with speech are the most

common symptoms or signs of stroke, but they are not the only signs.

The following signs of stroke may occur alone or in combination: • Weakness or numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on either or both sides of the body • Difficulty speaking or understanding • Dizziness, loss of balance or an unexplained fall • Loss of vision, sudden blurring or

decreased vision in one or both eyes • Headache, usually severe and abrupt onset or unexplained change in the pattern of headaches • Difficulty swallowing Sometimes the signs disappear within a short time, such as a few minutes. When this happens, it may be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

If you or someone else experiences the signs of stroke, no matter how long they last, call 000 immediately.

Dr Muthukrishnan’s

Kingswood Medical Centre 40 years of uncompromising excellence in family practice

Our Services: • Surgical Specialities • Inpatient Rehabilitation • Day Rehabilitation • Hydrotherapy Pool • Wellness Classes • NDIS Minchinbury Community Hospital Phone 9625 2222 Cnr Great Western Highway & Rupertswood Rd, Rooty Hill www.mhsminchinbury.com.au

Offering you:• family medicine • immunisation • antenatal care, family planning, IVF advice • travel vaccination • care plan • mental health issues • stop smoking, gambling and alcoholism • mental health issues • weight loss with hypnosis • work cover • depression anxiety and panic attacks • habit and addiction control • sexual and marriage counselling • eradicating fears and phobia • comfort for cancer patients and carers • nutrition and acupuncture • performance enhancement for students artists and athletes • full range of hypnosis and meditation services • study skills with hypnosis for year 12, 11 & 10 students

Free healing hypnosis for cancer patients

Bulk billing for most services Just call in and talk to our friendly staff for the services you may need

open seven days 3/149 Great Western Highway Kingswood NSW 2747

P 4736 6900 • Fax 4736 5800 rmoothoo@gmail.com

HEALTH

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Industrial Deafness WITH Daniel FechneR Ear Studio

T

his term is widely used for noise induced hearing loss and is very common for those born around 1940-1960.

At highest risk are boilermakers, plumbers, rail-workers, metalworkers, builders, machine operators, miners, panel beaters as well as vehicle and aircraft mechanics.

We come across industrial deafness on a nearly daily basis and found that many clients don’t know that they may be entitled to benefits through workers compensation. Even many years after employment ceased.

The process is relatively simple and often very beneficial for the exworker. There are two separate claim options for most workers.

1.

Claim for Hearing Rehabilitation Costs It all starts with a hearing assessment - If it is found that the hearing loss may be due to previous work-related noise exposure, we can help you to fill out and lodge a simple form with a NSW Government agency which will then arrange a medical assessment.

If the assessment concludes noise related hearing loss caused by

previous employment the responsible insurer will recognise liability for the hearing loss. With the approval you are entitled to free hearing care.

There is NO out-of-pocket cost for the (ex-) worker within the Workers Compensation approved schedule!

2.

Claim for Financial Compensation.

A Claim for financial compensation is different and handled by a lawyer or solicitor. There are many law-firms that specialise in injury compensation claims and often work on a no-win no-fee basis.

If you think you may suffer from industrial deafness feel free to book an appointment. We can then assess your hearing and guide you through the process and paperwork along the way.

The best thing: These assessments are free of charge under the compensation scheme.

Come and see us at Ear Studio.

Nita

Ask

A regular column to answer your medical cosmetic queries

W

here is Rejuven8? The award winning clinic that serviced the Nepean District for 15 Years?

Many locals have asked me whether Rejuven8 has closed down?

Rejuven8 has never closed its doors but actually had a name change. As the managing director of Rejuven8 I prided in providing quality services and endeavoured to maintain the high reputation, it earnt over the years. Unfortunately, personal circumstance (my son had a tragic accident) I needed to reduce my business responsibilities to have the emotional energy to support my sons’ rehabilitation. Reluctantly I decided to sell the business.

A public company “Total Face Group” was on a mission to acquire high quality boutique clinics.

Their vision was to be the best group of clinics in Australia. They acquired Rejuven8 and Heber Davis clinics, from Sydney and others from Interstate.

As the market changed with the proliferation of cheap chains, the quality boutique concept had

REJUVEN8 spelt with a number 8! to compete, and the clinics needed to change their business model.

Total Face Group merged with another public company which is on the ASX as WNB (Wellness Beauty Brands) to collaborate and not only offer quality beauty brands but also develop boutique unique medical clinics which embraces the companies’ brands and services. Bespoke, individual medical treatments are offered at these clinics, and are currently developing more unique services.

WNB renamed Total Face Group clinics as “Immersion Clinical Spa” The 2 Immersion Clinical Spas in Sydney are in Penrith (previously Rejuven8) and in Broadway (previously Heber Davis). Both Sydney clinics offer the same founder clinicians, such as myself and Dr Deborah Davis. Both clinicians have had over 25 years of experience and have been in the forefront of the cosmetic injectable wave. With years of experience and continual education they provide the clinics with the latest safe injectable techniques.

Rejuven8 now renamed as Immersion Clinical Spa will be moving premises. Offering privacy, parking on the premises, specialist doctors and advanced cosmetic injectable procedures.

This boutique private clinic model will appeal to many of our clients who want our quality services at a quality location. We are currently still in High St and all our existing clients will be informed of the

29

new Penrith location, and it will also be advertised in the Nepean News.

It has been confusing for all our clients!

So in summary Rejuven8 became Total Face Group, but has now been renamed as Immersion Clinical Spa! So YES Rejuven8 spelt with a number 8 still exists!

Rejuven8 is now part of Immersion Clinical Spas!

ENTERTAINMENT

By CONNER LOWE

I

t’s starting to feel a lot like Christmas.

With the festive season almost ready to kick off, it’s time for the annual Penrith Christmas Tree lighting on the 29th of November.

The Christmas Tree lighting event, 5-10pm, always brings businesses and the community together and there’s always a joyful vibe in the air.

Memory Park will exude the exciting spirit of Christmas and will kick off with a real bang when Santa arrives at 8pm to light the tree on High Street and Woodriff Street, Memory Park.

There will be food trucks and market stalls, amusement rides, kids’ zoo with miniature pony reindeer, free face painting and air brush tattoos, plus plaster for the first 100 kids outside screaming beans (opposite animal farm).

The roaming characters in Penrith will be – Buzz, Woody, Mrs Potato Head, Little Bo Peep from Toy Story, Frozen Characters including Olaf and the Princesses, Elf on the Shelf, your favourite Christmas friends Rudolph the Reindeer, Gingerbread Man all thanks to Paws Studio and they have created an amazing fun pantomime with all the characters on stage at

7.30pm.

There will also be a full stage of entertainment including Inspire Choir from Joan Sutherland Centre, Riverland Choir, High Street Music Students, Glenbrook Ballet Theatre, Dance Avenue, Excite Dance and DanceAtion.

Gai Hawthorn, The CEO of Penrith CBD Corporation spoke about how special it is for the community to come

together to celebrate the festive season.

“It’s great to have all our community entertainment come together to showcase and celebrate the Tree Lighting,” she said.

“Don’t forget to bring your chairs or picnic blanket to watch the night’s entertainment too.”

Stormer Music will also activate Triangle Park with more music for casual dining with our local cafes and

restaurants ready to offer some taste menus for all to enjoy.

Melissa McIntosh MP and Poles Patisserie have worked with the Penrith CBD Corporation to organise a special fundraiser with the money going to Penrith Community Kitchen for their Christmas appeal for the homeless. Our local Chefs Jason and Ricky from Poles Patisserie and staff will be on hand to help you decorate a Gingerbread house with your children.

Melissa McIntosh MP and staff have kindly donated their time to help too. There will be lots of gingerbread houses, lollies and fun to be had while you are giving back to a worthy cause.

The Gingerbread houses are only $25 and you can decorate and take home at the end of the night or just buy and you get a pack to do yourself.

The lighting of the Penrith Christmas Tree is a night not to miss, whether you are young, a senior or somewhere in between, this a fabulous community event that you will thoroughly enjoy.

“A huge thank you to our sponsors without their support and Penrith City Council we couldn’t bring you such a great community night for all to enjoy,” Gai added.

Check out the Penrith CBD Corporation Facebook and website for more details: www.penrithcbdcorp. com.au

Penrith High School Reunion 50th Anniversary Class of 1969 A reunion of students who commenced Penrith High School 1st form in 1964 in and completed 6th form in 1969, including those who came and went in between. Other students who were at the school during this time are also welcome to join us.

Details 29th Nov 2019 — School Tour 30th Nov 2019 — Luncheon at Nepean Rowing Club Cost: $60 Contact: Derek Thompson (02) 4256 5780 thompson@idx.com.au

www.facebook.com/groups/ • PenrithHighSchoolReunion1964to1969/

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Penrith CBD set to light up with Christmas cheer

31

ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

32

Sydney Santa Spectacular returns to Penrith

F

rom Lapland to Liverpool, Penrith Panthers Precinct will be the new home of Australia’s biggest Christmas festival, when the much-loved Sydney Santa Spectacular returns next month with a winter wonderland extravaganza that will run from November 23- December 27,2019.

Now in its fifth year, the North Pole inspired family festival is set to run for an entire month for the first time in 2019.

The extended festival dates and venue change follow unprecedented attendance to last year’s event, as well as growing public demand for early Christmas celebration kickoffs, Christmas parties and after work evening sessions.

“We’re excited to be heading to a new venue at Penrith Panthers. The move to Penrith allows us to start

the event two weeks earlier, which is something our customers have been asking for over the past few years,” said Sydney Santa Spectacular Founder and Director, Jade Evans, who organises the event alongside her husband Josh, six children and a team of tight-knit family and friends.

“It will be every bit as big and magical as it has always been – but with some fun new additions like a ferris wheel and more choice around session attendance,” she added.

The festival features one of Australia’s largest portable ice skating rinks, Australia’s only doubledecker carousel, show-ride favourites including the Cha, Wave Swinger, Red Baron Flyer, Circus Train, Teacups, Sea Circus Fun House and Australia’s

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biggest inflatable world.

The event also offers unlimited rides, a toboggan slide, live stage entertainment, a glittering Santa’s Enchanted Forest with live snowfall, an Elves Grotto, reindeer ride-on training stables, interactive costume characters, fairy reading-times, live carolling, face-painting, live Snow Queen stage show, special Santa meetand-greets and much more.

With a strong emphasis on value-formoney for families, event organisers have created a flat-priced golden entry ticket, which entitles all festivalgoers to unlimited rides, activities, entertainment and free parking over a three-hour session.

“We have six kids, so we know how expensive it can be to take a big family to a special event. We don’t want anyone to miss out, so we work hard to ensure the ticketing remains great value and not too expensive, and includes all rides and parking,” added Jade Evans.

The spirit of giving is also an integral part of the Sydney Santa Spectacular, adds Evans, noting that her favourite event element is a towering 15 metre charity Christmas tree, under which attendees are encouraged to place gifts for sick and needy kids. Over the past four years, the Sydney Santa Spectacular team has hand-delivered

more than 15,000 presents from under the giving tree to the Sydney Children’s Hospital and Westmead Children’s Hospital.

Last year, the team also drove a truck with hundreds of donated gifts and bales of hay to the drought-ravaged community of Naromine – taking Santa to the local primary school for some much needed cheer.

“Last year was our biggest year of gift giving – and getting out to the country in Naromine really bought home to us what the spirit of Christmas is all about. This year we’re taking Santa and hundreds of gifts out to drought impacted Tamworth.”

Tickets for the Sydney Santa Spectacular are on sale now at: www. sydneysantaspectacular.com

SUDOKU: HARD

SOLUTIONS: 24 October MEDIUM

MEDIUM

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

34

ENTERTAINMENT WELL DONE TO US OVER 100,000 COMMUNITY HOURS EACH YEAR

Invitation

AUSSIE BUSH

Combined Services host Bush Dance and Dinner at The Paceway

By Noel Rowsell

DANCE & DINNER In aid of the Bush battling the Drought Proudly brought to you by Combined Services Clubs Come along and enjoy a great evening of Fine Food, Entertainment and Dancing

Including the iconic Aussie Bush Band “Tuckitinya” And help us raise some much needed funds to assist our mates in the bush

Saturday 16th November 2019 The Penrith Paceway, Station Street, Penrith 6.30pm til late | $75 per person YOU CAN PAY Cheque to: Lions Club of Cambridge Park Inc. PO Box 8020, Werrington County NSW 2747 or Direct Debit to: Lions Club of Cambridge Park Inc. BSB: 082 778 Account: 58-513-7677 Include your Name/Club/Group as reference.

Please advise any special dietary requirements

All inquiries & list of attendees to Linda Lamond.

Email: combinedservices2019@gmail.com Mobile: 0408 530 531

A

regular catchup meeting between Lions Cambridge Park President Alan Bideleux and Nepean Valley Rotarian / Ross Hutchison Foundation head honcho Ross (Rossco) Hutchison has set in place a night of celebration for all local Service Clubs, their supporters and friends in the Penrith and Nepean Districts.

The Penrith Paceway will host a Bush Dance and Dinner on Saturday 16th November, with country music band Tuckitinya providing the entertainment on the night to celebrate the outstanding work by Rotary, Lions, Men’s Shed, Country Women’s Association, Inner Wheel, Zonta, View, Red Cross and other Service Clubs in the local districts.

“There are a minimum 100,000 hours of service donated by the wonderful people from these organisations every year.”

“Tuckitinya will perform on the night and are a great band, first working with us at the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at Penrith Lakes,” said Rossco.

“The dance is an opportunity for the members of each Service Club / Organisation to catch up with each other socially and also for members of the public to come along and have a chat - and perhaps even volunteer to join one of the groups.”

Tickets are $75 per head / $600 table of 8 and funds raised are for ‘our mates in the bush’ who have been devastated by drought.

CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 What Nero was doing (8) 5 Grins (6) 9 Killer (8) 10 Precipitated flakes (6) 12 Lack of bravery (9) 13 Encircles a picture (5) 14 Male ruler (4) 16 Spartan (7) 19 Relationship between lovers (7) 21 Found in some skin lotions (4) 24 Former French currency (5) 25 Estimate (9) 27 Preferring (6)

28 Singer (8) 29 More unhappy (6) 30 Colossus (8)

DOWN 1 Debacle (6) 2 Disinherit (6) 3 Not a winner (5) 4 Fastening two pieces of wood (7) 6 A public declaration (9) 7 Legislator (8) 8 Made unhappy (8) 11 Queen of the gods (Greek mythology) (4) 15 Naivete (9) 17 Creamy chocolate candies (8) 18 Ventured (8) 20 They come from chickens (4) 21 Windflower (7) 22 A style of half mask (6) 23 Draw (6) 26 The Final Frontier (5)

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ENTERTAINMENT

By KeRRIE DAVIES

S

t Marys C o m b i n e d Pensioners and Superannuants are a welcoming bunch of seniors who get together on a regular basis to have fun.

They are currently looking for more members to enjoy the many activities on offer, and they plan to incorporate bus trips into their fun schedule next year.

Nepean News is joining forces with them to do a membership drive. If getting out and about and meeting lots of new friends sounds like something you’d like to do, be quick to be one of the first ten to call in and Nepean News will cover the cost of your membership for the first year!

The branch formed on March 10, 1933 so they’ve now been running for 86 years.

“St Marys is the second oldest senior’s group in NSW,” said President David Brown. “We are open to all nationalities and have something for everyone.”

Activities include a Greek members social group, indoor bowls, bingo, general and social meetings and bridge.

Operating five days a week from 9am until 2pm, there’s ample parking and ramps to enable easy entry for wheelchairs or walkers.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Seniors: don’t delay, join in all the fun today

37

The convenient location is at Building 4, St Marys Seniors centre, corner of Great Western and Mamre Rd, entry is via Swanson St. There are currently 117 members but many more are welcome.

So what are you waiting for? You can even “try before you buy” and just go for a session and check it out before becoming a member if you’re not sure.

Call the group’s publicity officer Michael on 0416 514 793 for more information. Or you can call us here at Nepean News on 9834 5579 and we will put you in touch.

Nepean News will pay one year’s membership for the first ten to join!

CPSA ST MARYS BRANCH Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association of NSW

2019 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

FIRST 10 TO CALL JOIN FOR FREE BINGO • INDOOR BOWLS • BRIDGE • SOCIAL GROUPS GREEK SOCIAL GROUP • BUS TRIPS • MEET NEW FRIENDS

Monday-Friday 9am-2pm Drop in and check it out

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St Marys

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• Kids activities • Christmas Carols • Entertainment for all ages

NEPEAN HISTORY

by Lyn Forde – Pr esident/Research Officer of St Marys & District Historical Society Inc.

D

id you know that sometime after 1915, a St Marys’ street was named Jacka Street? Albert Jacka was a country boy who had answered his country’s call to arms at the first opportunity in October 1914. He was born on his family’s dairy farm at Layard in Victoria in 1893. His parents were Nathaniel and Elizabeth Jacka (Nee: Kettle) and Nathaniel was for some years in the Police Force.

Albert completed elementary schooling before working as a labourer with his father. Albert later worked fencing for the Victorian State Forest Department near Wedderburn where his parents and grandparents resided.

Private Jacka enlisted in the A.I.F. into the 14th Battalion and after training in Egypt he landed on Gallipoli with his battalion on 26 April 1915. In May at Courtney’s Point in Gallipoli, Lance-Corporal Albert Jacka along with four soldiers were holding a part of a trench when they were attacked. The men were killed. and seven Turkish troops rushed the trench. Albert killed five of them single-handed with rifle fire and the two with his bayonet. Because of this heroic deed, Albert was the first Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross in World War One. Albert quickly became famous back home in Australia where his likeness was used on recruiting posters and his exploits featured regularly in newspapers, particularly in Victoria. He rose rapidly through the ranks and was soon commissioned as a Lieutenant. He went on to serve on the Western Front where he received the Military Cross at Pozières in August 1916 and again the military bar at Bullecourt in April 1917.

Australia’s official war correspondent Charles Bean described Albert’s actions at Pozières as “the most dramatic and effective act of individual audacity in the history of the AIF” when he rescued a group of recently captured Australians. He was severely wounded during this action and was further wounded when hit by a sniper’s bullet in July 1917. Albert returned to the front after both occasions, but in May 1918 he was gassed during a German artillery bombardment near Villers-Bretonneux that brought his exemplary military career to an end. An interesting letter dated 15th September, 1918 turned up in London at Headquarters 5th Army to the Administration Headquarters, AIF written by General Sir W. R. Birdwood mentioning that he received a letter regarding Albert’s return to Australia, where he had been in touch with Albert who “very strongly opposed to returning back to Australia at that time. His reasons were “1. He is engaged to a lady in England and has arranged to get married to her within the next two or three months. 2. He is at the present time somewhat estranged from his father who is a strong anticonscriptionist in Australia, Albert being of course a conscriptionist and he feels that if he goes out to Australia to help in the conscription campaign it will considerably widen the breach between them. A thing he is particularly anxious to avoid”. He returned to Australia (no wife?) via the “Euripides” a year later in September 1919 and was greeted by a huge crowd. The Governor-General, along with thousands of

Victorians were there to meet the diggers upon return and all of them particularly wanting to see Albert. They were met with a convoy of eighty-five cars that proceeded to take the members of the 14th battalion onto the Town Hall with Albert leading the convoy. He was demobilised as a Captain in January 1920. Albert was described in one newspaper as “the symbol of the spirit of the Anzacs”. He started up his electrical business along with two former members of the 14th battalion (R. O. Roxburgh and E. J. L. Edmonds). Their business was to import and export electrical goods and was named after them called “Roxburgh, Jacka & Co. Pty Ltd.” with Albert being the major contributor to his business putting in £700 of his own money, but because of a man named Arthur Wren who held three quarters of the shares to the business, the name was changed to “Jacka Edmonds & Co.” after Roxburgh decided he would withdraw from the company to spend time with his family. According to close friends, Albert dedicated a lot of his time to this business which was very successful. Albert married Frances Veronica Carey in January1921 at St Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Kilda. Frances was a typist from Alfred’s business, and they went on to adopt a daughter a couple of years later. Albert was elected to the St Kilda Council in September 1929 and became Mayor the following year. He dedicated a lot of his attention to the business and was very passionate about helping and assisting the unemployed, particularly ex-servicemen. When he was elected to the council, the Scullin Government increased import tariffs and his business was forced into voluntary liquidation in September of 1930. Company difficulties were also assisted by the removal of support from Arthur Wren after Albert refused to give in to his undesirable wishes. Afterwards Albert became a commercial traveller with the Anglo-Dominion soap Company. Around this time his health began to deteriorate and in December 1931 he fell ill with Chronic Nephritis (kidney disease) and entered the Caulfield Military Hospital. Albert suffered various injuries that he encountered in the war and these injuries led to his early death. He died in January 1932 just 39 years of age. More than 6,000 people filed past his coffin as it lay in state and his Melbourne funeral procession, flanked by thousands of onlookers, was led by more than 1,000 First World War veterans. His coffin was carried by eight other Victoria Cross recipients and he was buried with full military honours in St Kilda Cemetery. Albert lived a very successful life. He showed true courage, braveness, eagerness, fairness, kindness and true pride in his country. After Albert’s death in 1932 there began an intense and prolonged public debate over the quality of his life and the unfortunate circumstances of his last few years. Photo courtesy of National Archives. We do not glorify war, but we do remember.

LEST WE FORGET.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Jacka Street, St Marys

39

Sources: Australian War Memorial. YouTube, http://www.whitehat. com.au, Archives, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Singleton Argus Newspaper, Ian Grant: Jacka VC.

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FINANCE AND REAL ESTATE MATTERS Sharon Mudiman Licensee and Principal of Bespoke Realty Group has been negotiating the sale of property for over twenty-five years in the Greater Penrith Region

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eciding to sell an investment property can be a long, drawn-out process. There are so many variables to consider both financially and emotionally, that it may seem that there is never a good time to sell.

One of the key hurdles to selling an investment property is if the residence is tenanted. Legally, a homeowner is entitled to sell a property whenever they see fit. However, there are provisions that govern how a vendor can sell a tenanted property to minimise

the impact on the renter. Specifics including showing the property to prospective buyers, conducting open for inspections, eligible access hours, and marketing such as photos and signage, are all subject to a strict set of rules. At times, disputes between landlords and tenants are escalated to the Tribunal, which is not a desirable outcome and can increase the stress of an investment property sale considerably.

Alternatively, to sell a property vacant, a lease with a tenant can only be terminated under certain

conditions based on the type of agreement in place.

Under a fixed term agreement, a landlord cannot terminate your agreement in order to sell the property.

Under a periodic agreement, the landlord can issue a 30-day termination notice only if a contract of sale with a buyer has been exchanged, and the contract stipulates ‘vacant possession’.

Whichever option an investment property owner chooses can be fraught with potential issues. While a negative experience is not always the case, it pays to do your due diligence before embarking on the sale of a tenanted home. The pitfalls of not following the strict guidelines that protect tenants can be risky in the long run. Alternatively, if it is financially viable, not renewing a lease (again, following strict guidelines) and having the home vacant before selling may balance out somewhat with lost rental income. With a vacant property, there are more options to repair or renovate, as well as the choice to make an investment in staging the home. Professionally staged homes statistically produce stronger returns than not staged homes so this may be of benefit to homeowners.

So an opportunity to prepare your home for sale properly, without the pressure of tenants, may be worth the wait.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Ask the Expert - Investment Property Conundrum: Selling with or Without Tenants

41

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

42

SPORT

Wanderers maintain undefeated start to the season

By CONNER LOWE

T

he Wanderers winning streak has come to an end, but they remain undefeated after a 0-0 draw with Brisbane Roar at Bankwest Stadium on Saturday.

Wanderers goalkeeper Daniel Lopar produced yet another magnificent display making a string of saves in both halves as the visitors made it tough for the home side.

The home side took a little while to warm into the game as the Roar looked solid in the early stages, creating the first chance after three minutes.

Western Sydney suffered a real blow when classy midfielder Pirmin Schwegler was forced off with an injury and replaced by Tas Mourdoukoutas, who slotted into the defensive midfield role.

The visitors created another chance that was well saved by Lopar before the Wanderers started to find their stride, causing problems for the Roar defence.

The Wanderers Captain Mitchell Duke was again getting through a mountain of work and looked most likely to create a chance for the red and black, however failed to help the

home side find the back of the net and the teams went into halftime at 0-0.

The second half was much the same with Wanderers keeper Lopar keeping the home side level with multiple world-class saves.

The Wanderers home crowd got to see new recruitment Nicolai Muller for the final 30-minutes and he almost became a fan favourite when his excellent cross in the final minutes fund Meier however he was only able to find the goalkeeper with his effort and the game ended a 0-0 draw.

Markus Babbel, Western Sydney Wanderers Coach spoke about how delighted he was with the team’s efforts despite losing key players to injuries.

“I am very happy with the result, I know how difficult it is after last week’s win against Sydney FC,” he said.

“I knew this would be a very difficult game because Brisbane also like us changed a lot, they are a much better team, much more quality on the pitch and you see it today.

“If you can’t bring your best performance on the pitch, yeah, you defend. Also, the heat was a problem.

This is also why I was thinking ‘oh this can be very difficult for us today,’ and it is the first time I have been nervous in front of the game.

“I am happy with the performance, how they we’re fighting to hold the clean sheet and, of course, we have a very good goalkeeper (Daniel Lopar) again today. We created chances and the result is fair.”

Babbel also said he is looking forward to the side having a break so that they can work on some tactical issues.

“I said from the start of the season, the squad is not big and if things happen we are struggling definitely,” he added.

“I look forward to the break, to bring some players back (from injury). This is a problem not just for us but everyone (in the competition) because the squads are not very big and if something happens to key players then you have problems.

“Today we had too many tactical mistakes and that is the biggest surprise because we worked a lot on this in pre-season. I hope the break we will make this better because we want to play better football.”

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SPORT

By Greg Davies

I

t looks like the local lads and mein hosts of the local watering holes “The Red Cow’ and ‘O’Donohues’ Tony and Mario Falcone may have another two promising gallopers in their stable.

Scarlet Dream (Sebring/Asylum Seeker) has had 12 starts for 2 wins, 5 placings which include a 3rd in the Group 3 Kembla Classic and a second in the Group 1 Australian Oaks. The 4yo mare was sent out as one of the favourites in the Group 1 Metropolitan at Randwick, but returned a disappointing performance due to the state of the track. She obviously dislikes racing on rain affected going, reinforced with her latest unplaced effort in another wet track group race.

She is definitely better than that.

Trainer Mark Newnham still has high hopes for the mare in some very prestigious races over the Melbourne Cup Carnival, where he hopes he can find some suitable track conditions for her.

The other promising youngster is Vegas Jewel (Shocking/Vegas Dancer) trained by Mark Kavanagh in Melbourne. Vegas Jewel has had 4 starts for 2 wins and a close 2nd in the group 3 Ethereal Stakes at Caufield followed by another close 2nd in the Wakeful Stakes last Saturday.

Tony, Maro and their sons Sam and Vince

The 3yo filly had her first start in a 1300m Maiden at Echuca and was not expected to win but rounded them up easy at to score at 20-1. Following this run she was sent to a metropolitan meeting at Moonee Valley in a 1600m race where despite being rated as an outsider again (20-1) she again made light work of the field and came away for an easy win.

Vegas was then dropped straight into the deep end in the 2000m Ethereal where by now the satchel swingers had recognised the potential and sent her out as favourite, The filly put in an enormous performance in only her 3rd start to go down in a close finish.

She then backed up for the 2nd in the Wakeful. That should have her well and truly primed for the Group 1 Oaks on ladies day. Given her breeding by Shocking the 2009 Melbourne Cup winner also trained by Kavanagh, the boys are hoping she may well develop into a star horse as she steps up in distance.

High hopes are everything in racing but given she is a close relation to the champion Winx (by the same broodmare) it may well see the high hopes eventuate.

Good luck to the Falcone brothers and the other part owners and let’s hope she can emulate some of the success of Shocking and Winx and bring some of those cups home.

Penrith Surge to claim Club of the Year title

By Noel Rowsell

P

enrith GC has staged a barnstorming final round to claim the ‘Club of the Year’ title in the 2019 Western Sydney Region Veteran Golfers Association (WSRVGA) Inter-Club competition.

Trailing leaders Dunheved GC by four shots, Penrith’s players saved one of their best collective games until last to score a commanding 8-shot victory.

Leonay GC continued the trend of home clubs winning their own event but only got past Penrith on a countback, with both clubs recording 166 points on the day.

The finishing positions of all clubs for the season, apart from Penrith and Dunheved, remained unchanged after the last high-scoring event, with reigning Club of the Year Richmond in 3rd, Wallacia 4th, Leonay 5th, Springwood 6th, Glenmore Heritage Valley 7th and Stonecutters Ridge taking the wooden spoon in 8th spot.

The battle for ‘Male Player of the Year’ was also hotly-contested, with leader Greg Williams (Dunheved) putting in a solid performance at Leonay with 36 points but he would ultimately be swamped by four of his rivals to finish back in 5th spot.

Penrith’s Russell Cruikshank

Action from the final WSRVGA Inter-Club for 2019.

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

climbed a staggering 9 shots in the final round to claim the Player of the Year title on 119 points, ahead of Peter Green (Dunheved) 118 c/b, Gary Allsopp (Penrith) 118, Graham Anderson (Wallacia) 114, Williams 113 c/b, Ian Forrester (Penrith) 113 c/b, Phil Tunchon (Penrith) 113 c/b, Garry Smith (Richmond) 113, Stephen Cromer (Wallacia) 111 c/b, Stephen Johnston (Penrith) 111.

On a day of high-scoring, five new faces jumped into the year’s Top Ten ranking following red-hot scores at Leonay, with just under 20% of the field shooting par or better, including each of the players who finished 8th or higher in the Player of the Year rankings.

In the Ladies division, Judy Loader (Stonecutters Ridge) had already posted a staggering 8-shot lead and

despite 6 of her rivals improving their scores in the final round, could not be run down on the day, taking out the ‘Ladies Player of the Year’ title.

Elaine Williams (Dunheved) finished runner-up on 104, ahead of Carol Carter (Richmond) 101 c/b, Margaret Brownsell (Springwood) 101, Sarah Dean (Glenmore) 100 c/b, Sue Evers (Springwood) 100, Carol Lozier (Richmond) 98, Kerry Robertson (Penrith) 97, Diane Bowden (Dunheved) 96 and Mei McCormick (Leonay) 95 c/b.

2BBB: Ross Woodley, Steve Cromer (Leonay) 52 points, Runnersup Phil Tunchon, Ian Forrester (Penrith) 51; 2BBB Medley: Sarah & Malcolm Dean (Glenmore) 44 c/b, Runners-up Margaret & John Brownsell (Springwood) 44.

Men’s Singles Division 1: Peter Green (Dunheved) 43 points, Peter McFarlane (Leonay) 41, Graham Anderson (Wallacia) 39; Division 2: Garry Allsopp (Penrith) 44pts, Gordon McConnell (Leonay) 42, Chris Holden (Leonay) 40; Division 3: Bob Sproule (Leonay) 41, Russell Cruikshank (Penrith) 40, Peter Blazek (Leonay) 36 c/b.

Ladies Singles Division 1: Judy Benson (Richmond) 33 pts, Carol Carter (Richmond) 32 c/b; Division 2: Elaine Williams (Dunheved) 36, Annette Leck (Richmond) 35.

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

Local brothers hoping for some more divine prophets

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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BEHIND THE STUMPS

with Stew Moses @TheRiffMarn

One successful large run chase deserves another The third-placed Black Cats maintained their undefeated start to the season following a record-breaking ninewicket win over local rivals Hawkesbury last Saturday week at Owen Earle Oval.

But the defending premiers now face an even bigger uphill challenge this Saturday at Howell Oval, after former Blues’ batsman Jason Sangha’s century inspired the visiting Randwick-Petersham club to post an imposing total of 7/430 from just 96 overs.

Having lost the toss, the Black Cats’ bowling attack, as they did against Hawkesbury the previous round, again failed to dismiss a side for the third round in succession, largely due to Ryan Smith, again being unable to bowl a significant amount of overs for a second week in succession, this time succumbing to a shoulder injury having bowled just the eight overs. The injury had previously forced Smith to miss last Sunday week’s T20 double-header at Howell Oval.

Wickets were shared with Trent Weir taking 2/86, while Ryan Fletcher, Luke Hodges, Henry Railz, Ryan Gibson and Brent Williams all taking one wicket each.

In Round Three action, Penrith lost just the one wicket as the “Two Ryans”, Ryan Gibson (186 no) and Ryan Hackney (131 no) set new club records with their unbeaten 323 run partnership against Hawkesbury at Owen Earle Oval.

Not only was it the highest club partnership for any wicket, it is the sixth highest second wicket stand across all clubs.

Skipper Ryan Smith praised the efforts of the two Blues squad batsmen following their record-breaking effort, although was a little disappointed not to have restricted the total from what appears to be a much-weaker Hawks outfit than in previous seasons.

“It was a great performance. Full credit to the “Two Ryans” for batting really well. They didn’t show any sort of weakness,” Smith told the Nepean News.

“I know Gibson was dropped early on and well and he truly made them pay.

“Hawkesbury are a bit of an undone

3s: Penrith 4/180 dec (J Watson 51, R Smith 49) def. Hawkesbury 170 (J New 4/27, L Doddrell 3/36) and 3/87 (B Balgowan 2/13) 4s: Hawkesbury 7/341 (S Grant 3/55, M Rockwell 2/51) def. Penrith 121 5s: Penrith 8-252 dec (P Gajula 59, D Dent 44 not out) def Hawkesbury 229 (T Finemore 4/73, A Hassan 3/20, D Dent 2/16) After three rounds the Black Cats are positioned as follows: 1s: Third, 2s: Second, 3s: Fifteenth, 4s: Eleventh 5s: Eleventh

The Two Ryans broke club records against Hawkesbury with their mammoth 323 run unbeaten partnership. Credit: M Gibson.

side this season having lost a few players to injury and the like so we were pretty confident in beating them.”

“But we sort of left a little bit out there with the ball the previous week.

“I think we could have been a little more aggressive and tried to take a few more wickets and restrict their score a little bit more.

“But in saying that both teams had to bat on that wicket and it shows how good the wicket was and if you didn’t want to get out on that wicket, you wouldn’t.

“The wicket was not offering any assistance and was probably the flattest wicket I have ever played on.”

Penrith’s Kingsgrove Sports T20 Cup campaign hangs in the balance with three rounds remaining after splitting their results in the double header at Howell Oval last Sunday week.

The Black Cats defeated Western Suburbs by 35 runs but Ryan Gibson’s 85 from 48 deliveries in the home side’s total of 6/180 wasn’t enough as Northern Districts (5/181) still managed to overhaul the total.

Despite the mixed results it was terrific to see club favourite Josh Lalor back

for the Black Cats last Sunday week, following recent success in the Caribbean T20 competition.

Skipper Ryan Smith remains hopeful the Black Cats can still make the finals, as they turn their attention to this Sunday’s clash against Campbelltown-Camden (Nov 10 @ Raby Oval 1).

“We’ve always been fairly strong in the shorter forms of the game, both the T20s and the one-dayers, especially in the past couple of seasons,” Smith said.

“But it is a little bit disappointing that we are only one from three.

“However, with there being six games this season, if we win our last three games then hopefully, we are in with a chance of making the finals still and T20 is a funny game after all.”

An equally important game is coming up for Penrith’s Poidevin-Gray U21s side when they host Fairfield-Liverpool on Sunday Nov 17 in the 50 overs format.

In lower grades news, mixed results from Round Three games against Hawkesbury for the Black Cats: 2s: Penrith 4/265 (S Finemore 110 not out, J Browne 84) def. Hawkesbury 93 (R Singh 4/21, J Browne 2/8, Z Rizzo 2/11) and 3/213

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Meanwhile games are evenly poised across the lower grades in the Round Four fixtures against the Randwick-Petersham grade teams after day one: 2s: Penrith 348 (J Watson 84 M Collins 56 Z Rizzo 50) v Randwick-Petersham 1/20 3s: Randwick-Petersham 188 (L Doddrell 3/41) v Penrith 0/35 4s: Randwick-Petersham 136 (S Grant 5/27) v Penrith 1/48 5s: Penrith 9-303 dec (D Dent 85, B Vella 60, P Gajula 52) v RandwickPetersham 2/10 Penrith’s Lady Cats minus the likes of Naomi Stalenberg, Lisa Griffith, Rachel Priest, Phoebe Litchfield and regular skipper Samantha Arnold to WBBL duty with the Sydney Thunder, have missed out on qualifying for the T20 finals after successive losses to Universities (all out 72 v 0/76) and Parramatta (6/147 v 6/143).

But a win over Universities was enough for Penrith’s second grade women’s team to qualify for the T20 finals in fourth position despite losing the following week to Parramatta.

Penrith’s Rachel Priest was named player of the match for the Sydney Thunder scoring 50 from 34 balls in the Thunder’s win over the Hobart Hurricanes, with support provided by Penrith team-mate, Phoebe Litchfield (26 not out). Naomi Stalenberg missed out scoring just 6 runs while Lisa Griffith and Samantha Arnold missed final XI selection. #LoveTheCats

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

45 45

with Stew Moses

@TheRiffMarn

2020 NRL draw family-friendly for Panther fans The NRL 2020 draw, released last Tuesday has seen the Penrith Panthers finally given a familyfriendly NRL schedule.

The Panthers will host four Sunday afternoon fixtures at Panthers Stadium in 2020, while a fifth Sunday afternoon home game against the Cronulla Sharks, will be played in Bathurst in early May, as part of the club’s commitment of playing a home game in the region until at least 2028.

In total, the Panthers play a whopping 11 games on Sunday, including seven in a row from Round five.

In further good news for the club especially its sponsors, the Panthers will have 12 games shown on free-to-air.

However, the club faces a challenging start to the season with clashes against the defending premiers, Sydney Roosters, grand finalists Canberra Raiders and the Melbourne Storm, all scheduled in the opening five weeks of the season.

The Panthers also play all Sydney teams at home in 2020 with the exception of the Canterbury Bulldogs and play all regional teams away except North Queensland Cowboys.

Whilst there is a heavy travel schedule for the Panthers, they only leave Sydney twice in the last 15 rounds of the season.

Finally two home games have been scheduled on Saturday 7:35pm in the hottest part of the season, March, against the Roosters and Brisbane Broncos, which will come as a welcome relief for the club’s fans, who have been often had to put up with oppressive conditions with home games often scheduled in the heat of the afternoon in the past.

Panthers has joined forces with apparel partner O’Neills to launch the #JerseyRevolution that provides its fans with the most affordable jerseys in the NRL. From last Friday to Tuesday just gone, the Panthers offered the all-new 2020 Panthers Home and Away Jerseys for sale at just $99.

The promotion has been so successful that stock sold out within 24 hours but fans were still able to pre-order the jersey online or in store at the Panthers Shop for the special introductory price.

Moving forward, both jerseys are available at $117 for Panthers members and $129.99 for nonmembers, establishing a new pricing benchmark for official NRL jerseys.

facets of the kit design and development from our manufacturing plant in Ireland.

“Our focus on delivering quality, high performance team wear has been more than 100 years in the making and we’re looking forward to a successful relationship with the Panthers family.”

Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

GOLDEN POINTS

With pre-season training due to commence next Monday (Nov 11), look for the club to confirm a coaching restructure within the lower grades, with current NRL assistant coach Peter Wallace, set to take over the coaching reigns of the club’s Canterbury Cup team, with incumbent coach Guy Missio set to take over Ben Harden’s role as Jersey Flegg coach.

Dean Whare models the new Panthers 2020 Home Jersey from new apparel sponsor O’Neills.

Credit: Penrith Panthers.

The #JerseyRevolution coincides with confirmation O’Neills has signed on as official apparel partner of the Panthers for the next three years. The Ireland-based manufacturer will produce the club’s playing kit and training apparel, as well as supplying a wide range of offfield and supporter wear items.

“Panthers is delighted to link up with O’Neills and provide our fans with the most affordable jerseys in the NRL, without compromising on quality,” Panthers Chairman Dave O’Neill said.

“Through innovation and forward-thinking, this partnership has delivered a game-changing outcome for our loyal members and fans.

“This is only the beginning and we look forward to working closely with O’Neills over the years ahead.”

O’Neills Australasia General Manager Antoinette Brophy said the manufacturer was similarly delighted to partner with Penrith Panthers and launch the #JerseyRevolution.

“O’Neills has been the choice of champions since 1918 and we are thrilled to align the O’Neills brand with another sporting powerhouse in Penrith Panthers,” Antoinette said.

“We have taken a ‘whole of club’ approach for Panthers and we’re excited to deliver a quality outcome for players, staff and supporters in all

No surprise to see that hooker Wayde Egan was granted an immediate release from his contract to join the New Zealand Warriors until the end of 2022.

The 22-year-old hooker progressed through the junior development pathways at Panthers to make his NRL debut in 2018, and played 29 NRL games for the club, scoring three tries in the process.

But the arrival of Apisai Koroisau and the emergence of Mitch Kenny as a viable hooking option, forced the Lithgow Storm junior, who only re-signed with the club for an extended period late last year, to pursue the Warriors opportunity.

“Wayde and his management this week approached Panthers to request an immediate release from the remainder of his contract,” Panthers General Manager Rugby League Matt Cameron said.

“As a club we would have liked Wayde to see out his contract however we also understand the opportunity presented by the Warriors was a difficult one for Wayde to turn down at this point in his career.

“Wayde’s request for a release has been granted out of respect to him and we wish him the best of luck moving forward.”

Finally best wishes from all at Nepean News to Panthers RL CEO, Brian Fletcher as he continues to recover from a recent operation. #PantherPride

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Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

46

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Coach’s Corner W

A Time For Growth

hat a weekend we witnessed in International Rugby League with Tonga upsetting the Kangaroos, the Kiwis defeating Great Britain and Fiji hammering Samoa.

There has been some very critical reactions to the Kangaroos loss but I feel it was inevitable with the talent the Tongan side has been accumulating over the past few years. The Kangaroos were disappointing no doubt but all spoils to the Tongans.

Tonga in the immediate future could challenge tier one nations for the number one ranking providing they can apply themselves consistently for long periods during games.

It is now a period for a lot of coaches and players of our winter codes in Australia where formal

competitions and seasons have finished and they have some well earned time off before preseason training commences later in the year or at the beginning of the new year.

Some will soak up the rays and switch off. But I have always had the mindset it is a period of time where I can grow, learn and develop as a coach.

During a season you become so locked into training sessions, video, games, player evaluations and the week to week grind of a competition.

Therefore development and investment in yourself often hits the back burner as it is not a priority.

I try to use this period to watch coaches from different sports. In previous seasons I have observed Michael Wholohan from Penrith Panthers

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Cricket Club who is a very experienced coach and teacher. I am fortunate enough to work with a very experienced Principal and leader along with a State Hockey coach, an ex State Cricketer and a fellow junior representative Rugby League coach.

The Wests Tigers Rugby League Club also allows opportunities to develop and Michael Maguire, Brett Hodgson and Wayne Lambkin are always happy to share knowledge and experience.

There is never a day as a coach where you should be competing with anyone but yourself. It is only your knowledge you can improve and develop.

Work hard, read, research, ask questions and always be open to criticism and feedback. As this is the time of the year for growth!

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Tonga shocks the world

“And that’s it, Tonga have shocked the rugby league world with a 16 points to 12 win over Australia,” as the commentator said with astonishment after one of the biggest upsets of all time in international rugby league.

Not only were Tonga pronounced underdogs against the powerhouse which is the Australian Kangaroos, but most footy experts and pundits all agreed that Tonga probably had the forwards to match the Aussies but definitely not the back line. Um think again.

Tongan coach Kristian Woolf started the game with a head-scratcher of a selection switch naming Bronco outside back Kotoni Staggs as his half back.

He partnered Tuimoala Lolohea beautifully.

And the experience of Michael Jennings, Daniel Topou, and Will Hopoate was profound in the upset victory.

But for the back line to strut their stuff, the big boys up front must also provide a rock sold platform. And boy, didn’t they what!

Taukeiaho, Taumalolo, Fifita, Ofahengaue, Pangai Jnr and Ben MurdochMasila (where has he been?) were extraordinary.

They had to be to overcome the night of the Aussie juggernaut.

The ecstasy and jubilation shown by each and every member of the Tongan team after the final whistle had sounded was something to savor. It was an historic moment that will not be quickly forgotten.

And what of the Australian team? Was it a hiccup? Were they complacent?

Did a few of the big names go missing?

All of the above!

But they’ll bounce back. Several Aussies picked the worst possible time to have their worst display in the green and gold. But their opponents have to take most of the accolades in not just winning, but pressuring the Aussies into making lazy mistakes.

It’s been 41 years since Australia have lost a test match in rugby league to anyone other than Great Britain, New Zealand or England, you know for sure with the rise of the Tongan torpedo that it won’t be another 41 years until it happens again.

See you at the game.

MG (random Westie) OAM

47 47 Nepean News 7 November 2019 Issue 264

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