Nepean News 8 July 2022

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Friday, 8 July 2022

ISSUE 333

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Community spirit Our amazing Penrith SES team were given a treat to enjoy whilst completing their incredibly hard work this week.

“Massive thank you to Krispy Kreme at Penrith! 15 dozen doughnuts were dropped off as a surprise and we know our hardworking volunteers will devour them!” an SES spokesperson said. Photo: Credit SES Penrith

15th to 17th July

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g n i l l e n n a h it Penrith CBD is c r i p S y l u J the Christmas in High St Depot 4704 8244

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ressures from the pandemic and compounding trauma from drought, bushfires and now multiple flood events, have taken their toll on many Penrith residents.

Wentworth Healthcare, the provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, want the community to know that there is free mental health support available to people of all ages.

Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said that anyone in the Penrith experiencing high levels of distress resulting from the 2021/2022 flood events can access up to 10 free psychological therapy sessions through the Psychological Therapy Services program.

“These services are free for anyone of any age, including children, young people, adults and older people whose mental health is suffering and may have been made worse by the recent flood events. No GP referral is needed to access this free support,” said Ms Reay “Penrith has faced multiple disasters over the last few years and seeing our families, friends, neighbours and community go through yet another disaster can be very distressing. That’s why these therapy sessions are available to anyone being psychologically affected by the floods, and not just those who are physically impacted by the flood waters,” she said.

“There are telehealth and face-to-face

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appointments available, without the long waiting times some people may be experiencing to see mental health clinicians,” she added.

These services can be accessed by calling the Head to Health intake line on 1800 595 212. When calling the number, people are asked to enter their residential postcode and are then transferred to a trained mental health professional, who will talk to them about their concerns and refer them into the Psychological Therapy Services program or another local service, if more appropriate.

“If you are feeling overwhelmed by these most recent flood events, I encourage you to reach out and call our Head to Health intake line. You are not alone and there is support available,” she said.

To access these free services, Penrith locals should call the Head to Health intake line on 1800 595 212 from Monday to Friday between 8:30am - 5:00pm.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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95B Station St, Penrith Editor: Sales Manager: Sales: Sales: Journalist: Journalist: Sports Editor: Photographer: Graphic Design: Printer: Letters to the Editor: Web:

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Opinion: raise the dam wall

By BART BASSETT

W

ell, flooding in the HawkesburyNepean floodplain has happened once again. And I believe it will continue to happen to this extent or even worse unless the Warragamba Dam Wall is raised. Analysis of the flood early this year showed if the Warragamba Dam Wall was raised to the planned level of 14 metres above its current height the flood height at Windsor would have been over 3 metres lower, that’s a lot of property that would have stayed dry.

I hear the argument put forward by some people that it’s not worth raising the dam wall because it won’t stop every flood. The idea of raising the dam wall is to reduce the intensity of major flooding. As a community we accept hazard reduction is necessary to reduce the intensity of bushfires knowing it will not stop all fires - so why are people refusing to accept the same rationale for raising the dam wall?

When Warragamba was built, it was built as a water storage facility, not a mitigation dam and even to this day that is exactly what the operating procedure is, for the dam to be kept as full as possible to supply Sydney with quality potable water.

The recent occurrences of east coast low weather systems and Warragamba Dam at close to 100% capacity over the last few years should be a real wake up call to the NSW State Government to finally get on with the obvious job of making it a mitigation dam as well as a storage dam and for the new Federal Government to support the initiative to help protect life and property in western Sydney.

The other important infrastructure objective to assist during times of flood is good flood evacuation routes and upgrades to existing roads that are impacted by flooding. This could easily be upgraded to provide a real cost effective benefit, but that should not replace or delay the need to get on with serious mitigation options.

I strongly believe that saving life and property downstream of the dam wall wins out significantly compared to the occasional temporary inundation above the dam wall in the catchment area. I actually can’t believe this debate has been dragging on for such a long period of time, which then in turn creates inaction.

Let’s just make a decision and get on with the job please - because one thing we can be sure of is flooding will continue to happen just like it always has - and the people of western Sydney deserve better.

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Photo: Credit SES Penrith

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isaster assistance is now available in 23 local government areas (LGAs) following severe storms and flooding from 27 June 2022, which continue to impact large areas of Sydney and the New South Wales coast.

The LGAs are Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Camden, Canterbury Bankstown, Campbelltown, Central Coast, Cessnock, Fairfield, Georges River, Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Kiama, Lithgow, Liverpool, Northern Beaches, Penrith, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Sutherland, The Hills, Wingecarribee, Wollondilly and Wollongong.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Murray Watt, said the flooding has led to a large number of evacuations throughout Metropolitan Sydney, the Hawkesbury and the Central Coast.

“The Australian and New South Wales governments have worked very cooperatively through this latest flood emergency, to ensure defence and other resources were deployed early and fast.

New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery, Steph Cooke, said significant recovery support would be required to help support communities once the major weather event passes.

Assistance available under the DRFA may include: • Help for eligible people whose homes or belongings have been damaged (eligibility criteria apply); • Support for affected local councils to help with the costs of cleaning up and restoring damaged road and essential public assets; • Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations; and • Freight subsidies for primary producers.

For information on personal hardship and distress assistance, contact Service NSW on 13 77 88.

To apply for a concessional loan or primary producer grant, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.aulaunch Information on disaster assistance can be found on the National Recovery and Resilience Agency’s website at www.recovery.gov.au

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If you’re flood affected and unable to access your usual GP, you can access telehealth consultations even if you haven’t seen the GP face-to-face in the last 12 months. The current telehealth exemption allows GPs to see patients in disaster declared areas, which includes all LGAs in our region.

General Practices Available for Telehealth The list of GPs currently available to provide telehealth appointments is available below, this list will be updated regularly as we receive information from participating GPs: Practice Name

Phone

Telehealth Availability

Beyond Healthcare

9053 8861

Business Hours

Bligh Park Family Practice

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Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm, Sat: 9am-1pm

Francis Street Family Practice

4545 2777

Mon-Fri: 8.15am-5.00pm

Glossodia Medical Practice

4576 7499

Business Hours

Hawkesbury Family Practice

4578 9399

Business Hours

Melville Road Family Medical Centre St Clair

9834 4233

Business Hours

North Richmond Family Medical Practice

4571 3399

Business Hours

Octa Medical

4722 6889

Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm. Sat: 8am-12pm

Werrington County Medical Centre

9833 4463

Mon-Wed: 10am-4pm. Fri: 11am-4pm

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Disaster relief

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news

Blow after blow: this week brings yet another challenge

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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his morning I was chatting to my friend Carol, who owns the Nepean Belle, about the ridiculous amount of challenges we have faced in our region. If you’d looked into a crystal ball at the end of 2019 and saw what the next few years had in store for us, you’d never believe even half of it could possibly be true.

Unfortunately we were in for a hell of a ride and we are still strapped into this seemingly never-ending roller coaster.

There have been more twists, turns and hurdles than a blockbuster movie.

As the rain began pelting down, “surely not again?” came the collective voice.

Evacuation warnings were soon followed by evacuation orders and before we knew it, it was happening again, and for many people far worse than floods previously experienced.

The response of our emergency services has been incredible. The SES, Penrith Council, NSW Government and the Australian Government have all worked together to ensure assistance was available.

We are a resilient lot, but there’s only so much small businesses and constantly impacted residents can take, Bring on the sunshine!

Photo: Credit SES Penrith

Orchard Hills water supply asked to conserve water

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his alert applies to homes and businesses in the following suburbs: Caddens Jamisontown Oxley Park Cambridge Gardens Jordan Springs Penrith Cambridge Park Kingswood Quarry Hill Castlereagh Kingswood Park Regentville Claremont Meadows Lemongrove Ropes Crossing Colyton Leonay South Penrith Cranebrook Llandilo St. Clair Dunheved Londonderry St. Marys Emu Heights Mt. Pleasant Werrington Emu Plains Erskine Park North St. Marys Werrington County Glenmore Park Orchard Hills Werrington Downs

As a result of current extreme weather events, residents across the Orchard Hills water supply are being asked to reduce water use over the coming days.

Heavy rain and floods have swept high volumes of leaves, dirt, and other debris into the raw water catchment, making the usual demand for drinking water more difficult to meet. This has posed significant challenges for our Orchard Hills water filtration plant.

As such, we are asking residents in this catchment area to reduce their water usage while our filtration systems are working harder than usual to filter and clean the raw water to make it safe.

Drinking water is safe – a short term reduction in demand helps the plant catch up as it filters out more silt and debris churned up by the rainfall.

Sydney Water’s General Manager Customer Delivery, Bernie Sheridan, said the conserve water alert has been issued in an effort to conserve our safe drinking supply while the filtration system is impacted by heavy rain and flooding.

“We understand Warragamba Dam is full and spilling at record rates, so it seems strange to ask our customers to voluntarily conserve water, but this helps us ensure a consistent supply” Mr Sheridan said.

“I really need to stress that the drinking water is clean, it is simply that the system’s ability to produce drinking water is slower than normal.

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arly this week Nepean Blue Mountains Local Area Health District kicked off #NAIDOCWeek2022 with a special community event at Nepean Hospital.

The event Included a Welcome to Country by Local Elder Auntie Melissa Stubbings, Flag Raising Ceremony and cultural dance by Wagana Aboriginal Dancers.

“We continued the celebrations with market stalls by Aboriginal and Oceanic Arts & Crafts, sausage sizzle

by Western Sydney Aboriginal Men’s Group and a performance by the incredible young talent at Yangkay Cultural Connect,” a spokesperson said.

Due to wet weather and flooding conditions, Penrith City Council has had to postpone the NAIDOC celebrations at Jamison Park this Thursday 7 July.

They will look to reschedule later this year. #NAIDOCWeek2022 #GetUpStandUpShowUp

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Celebrating naidoc week at Nepean Hospital

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news

Agriculture and animal emergency flood hotline reactivated

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andholders impacted by the current flood event across NSW can now access immediate support through the reactivated Agriculture and Animal Emergency Services hotline on 1800 814 647.

Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said significant work has already been undertaken as part of the flood emergency response to provide support to communities as quickly as possible.

“The NSW Government put plans and processes in place in anticipation of this flood emergency to ensure we were ready to respond and provide immediate support to primary producers, landholders and the broader community,” Mr Saunders said.

“Although the full extent of the damage across the State is varied and yet to be realised, we are providing emergency support to landholders, including providing emergency fodder, animal assessments and welfare checks, and emergency safe places for livestock and domestic animals.

“As the flooding continues to unfold in the coming days, the staff on the ground and in the response centres will adapt as required to provide the necessary support for local landholders and community members.

“The Department of Primary Industries and Local Land Services are working together to assist

landholders and communities with animal welfare and agriculture related issues arising from the current flood event devastating NSW.” Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said an animal-safe space at Castle Hill is now open to temporarily house livestock and domestic animals, with

Bill Ashurst funeral

The local community was recently rocked by the sad news that former Penrith footballer Bill Ashurst had passed away.

Bill’s family were doing it a bit tough and twelve local businesses have stepped in to provide some funds to help the family organise a fitting farewell. Whilst the businesses would prefer to stay anonymous, Nepean News has learned that the largest contributor was Penrith Panthers. If you would like to get on board contribute to Bill’s send-off, please call Colin Henry on 0417 228 500.

the potential for more sites to operate in the coming days.

“With further heavy rainfall forecast, landholders and community members are urged to move their livestock and domestic animals to higher ground and consider evacuating animals, where safe to do so,” Ms Cooke.

“With many properties impacted

by flooding this hotline will help landholders manage their livestock and animals and keep them safe as this flooding continues.”

To keep up to date with the latest information, visit www.nsw.gov. au/floods, dpi.nsw.gov.au/floods or www.lls.nsw.gov.au/help-andadvice/emergency-and-biosecurity/ floods.

Nsw faces latest covid-19 wave E veryone in NSW is being asked to ensure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations and to practise COVID-safe behaviours as the current wave of infections, driven by the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants, continues to grow.

There are fears the number of serious illnesses and death toll will increase significantly unless more people immediately get boosted and practise COVID-safe behaviours.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said figures show 56 per cent (1,232) of COVID-related deaths this year were in people who have had two or fewer doses.

“We are at the beginning of the third wave of Omicron which is likely to peak in late July or early August. This increase in community transmission brings with it greatly increased risks for those not up to date with their vaccines,” Mr Hazzard said.

“The best way you can protect yourself from serious illness or worse is to get every vaccination that is available to you.”

If you are fully vaccinated you have 65 per cent greater protection against hospitalisation or death from Omicron than two vaccine doses alone affords, according to data from the

National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said in addition to booking in for a booster, people should exercise common sense and wear a face mask in public indoor spaces, where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

“Face masks, hand hygiene, staying home when ill, testing yourself when symptoms present, physically distancing, all these measures are not new to us,” Dr Chant said.

“Unless we pull together as one again, this new wave will hit schools and businesses hard, just like BA.1 did, which saw thousands of workers absent.”

Elderly people and those with underlying health conditions are reminded to speak to their GP or health professional about antiviral medications if they contract COVID-19. Antivirals work best when taken within five days from when symptoms onset.

COVID-19 booster doses are recommended for anyone 16 years and older who had their last dose of a primary course at least three months ago.

To find your nearest vaccination clinic, visit nsw.gov.au.

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ight police dogs and their handlers graduated alongside 200 new probationary constables at a recent Police Attestation ceremony in Goulburn.

Acting Police Commissioner David Hudson officiated by swearing in the 200 new probationary constables, four detection police dogs and four general purpose police dogs which will be accompanied by their instructors.

The police dogs completed the NSW Police Detection and General Purpose Novice Courses in 2019 and 2021, but have not been able to graduate until now due to COVID restrictions.

The 200 probationary constables were deployed to police stations across the state from Monday 27 June 2022 where they will complete their year of on-the-job training.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said every Attestation ceremony was a significant occasion for the Police Force and the community.

“I congratulate our newest probationary constables, who will be deployed to areas where they are needed the most,” Mr Toole said.

In 2019 the NSW Government announced a record investment in police, with an additional 1500 officers over four years and committed $60 million to upgrade the Goulburn Police Academy.

“We are proud to offer our continued support to the NSW Police Force to ensure it has the very best people, training facilities, and technology to keep our communities safe,” Mr Toole said.

Acting Police Commissioner David Hudson said the ceremony was an important opportunity to recognise the commitment of Class 353, as well as their families and friends.

“Behind every police officer and every probationary constable is a family and a network that plays a critical role in supporting our people,” Acting Commissioner Hudson said.

“It’s more important than ever that we ensure our police have our utmost support so that they can enjoy long and successful careers.

“It’s also a unique and special occasion when we see new police dogs enter the Force. The value police dogs bring to policing – including criminal investigations and critical

incident response is significant and should be recognised.”

Acting Assistant Commissioner Toby Lindsay said a career in policing was exciting and rewarding.

“As a probationary constable engaged in general duties policing you can expect to be working with and helping the community,” Acting AC Lindsay said. “You will also undertake a wide range of investigations including motor vehicle accidents, stealing offence, assaults and more.

“In addition to general duties policing, there are more than 100 specialist roles in support of our frontline police and community.”

FACTS AND FIGURES ABOUT CLASS 353 A total of 200 recruits were sworn in. The class comprised 134 men and 66 women.

In addition, four detection police dogs and four general purpose police dogs graduated alongside their handlers.

The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable.

Recruits reported to their stations for work from Monday 27 June 2022.

They will then complete 12 months on-the-job training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University. They officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice once they have passed all

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Police Force swears-in 200 officers and eight police dogs

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academic and operation standards.

The officers will then be confirmed to the rank of constable.

Of the probationary constables who attested, 169 were born in Australia and 31 were born overseas.

Their countries of origin include India, England, Iraq, Belgium, New Zealand, China and South Africa.

Four recruits are indigenous, with one joining through the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program.

Class 353 comprises: • 18-20 – 38 • 21-25 – 100 • 26-30 – 36 • 31-35 – 15 • 36-40 – 5 • Over 40 – 6 OFFICER ALLOCATIONS BY POLICE AREA COMMAND AND POLICE DISTRICT NORTH WEST METROPOLITAN REGION – 40 Blacktown PAC – 4 Blue Mountains PAC – 3 Hawkesbury PAC – 2 Kuring Gai PAC – 3 Mt Druitt PAC – 4 Nepean PAC – 3 North Shore PAC – 5 Northern Beaches PAC – 6 Parramatta PAC – 4 Ryde PAC – 4 The Hills PAC – 2

Counselling | EMDR Therapy Trauma | Adolescent mental health Parenting support Grief and Bereavement | Mediation Online therapy for personal convenience via Zoom or FaceTime

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We celebrate, value, and include people of all backgrounds, genders, sexualities, cultures, bodies and abilities.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news

Plans to acquire Paceway for new Penrith Stadium

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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he NSW Government has released a statement to say it has commenced commercial negotiations for the acquisition of the Penrith Paceway, as part of the Penrith Stadium redevelopment.

“The existing Penrith Stadium will continue to be available for the Penrith Panthers’ 2023 NRL season, which provides certainty to the Penrith Panthers and its fans.

Following a six-week community consultation program, feedback from over 3,000 people provided a clear picture of what the new stadium needs to deliver.

The Paceway site would facilitate a state of the art stadium with an improved game day experience for fans, with modern amenities that exists within a precinct that is activated throughout the week, not just on event days.

Timing of construction for a new stadium will be confirmed once the acquisition process is completed and the scope for the new Penrith Stadium has been determined, which is expected in late 2022.” the release stated.

Stuart Ayres MP said the announcement meant that Panthers will play at Panthers next year.

“I welcome the commencement of commercial negotiations by Infrastructure NSW for the acquisition of the Penrith Paceway as part of the redevelopment of Penrith Stadium,” Mr Ayres said.

“The stadium redevelopment is a significant opportunity for Penrith and it’s critical we achieve the best outcome possible for our whole community.

“The practical outcome of this is that Penrith Stadium will continue to be used by the Penrith Panthers in 2023 and be available to other hirers.

“The Penrith Paceway, its Harness Racing and Agricultural Show have been an important part of the Penrith community for a long time. These negotiations are as much about securing

their long term future in Penrith as they are about redevelopment of the Stadium.

“The scope for the new stadium will be determined once the acquisition process is concluded, which is expected in late 2022.”

Panthers also weighed in that it was a good outcome.

“On behalf of all at Panthers, we’re delighted to remain at BlueBet Stadium for the 2023 NRL season,” Panthers Group CEO Brian Fletcher said.

“To continue to play home fixtures at BlueBet Stadium is a great result for the Penrith community, as it provides certainty to members and fans, corporate partners and all stakeholders of Panthers.”

However not everyone welcomed the news.

Penrith Showground CEO Tash Greentree says the advice from Infrastructure NSW (INSW) flies in the face of recent conversations with Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres, which had indicated a ‘win-win’ would be reached in any negotiations.

“There is no suggestion in the

acquisition notice from INSW that any consideration is being given to assist us to relocate or continue operations in any way,” said Ms Greentree.

“We are totally devastated by this news. If, we have no viable new home to go to, we will need to close, and we won’t be able to come back from that.

“We could have been part of a terrific future for Penrith, but now we’re looking down the barrel of absolute ruin.

“I can’t understand why the Government would rip the heart out of our community like this.

“To our knowledge, no planning has been done to indicate how our entire 11-hectare site would be used for the stadium – and there are no plans available for the community to comment on.

“The Government has taken it upon itself to arbitrarily make decisions about the future, our future and acquire land before a plan has even been endorsed.”

“The Penrith Showground has been working through a rezoning process,

and has been in discussion with the Penrith City Council since 2018 to come up with an appropriate proposal for the site.

“We’ve already done a lot of work on our site and know its potential would have secured our future,” she said.

On social media, some people posed questions to Mr Ayres about the future of the Paceway, and he responded: “As I said above this negotiation is as important for the future of the Paceway and the Show Society as it is for the stadium,” Mr Ayres said.

“I want the Harness Racing and the Penrith Show to continue in Penrith for many this years to come.

“The negotiations between the Paceway and Infrastructure NSW are about trying to get to a position where we have the right venues in the right locations.

“Penrith deserves great entertainment infrastructure, we have to keep moving with the times. This about making sure we have a bright future for Penrith and our Show Society has one too.”

There will be more on this story in our next printed edition.

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news Prue Car MP responds to the Budget: ‘Local focus needed’

By KeRRIE DAVIES

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epresenting one of the most flood affected areas, NSW Deputy Opposition Leader, Prue Car has been busy updating her constituents in the Londonderry electorate and ensuring evacuations run smoothly. In the days before the rain poured down and the river rose, Ms Car spoke with Nepean News about the NSW Government’s budget, released last month.

“This has been a pretty disappointing budget for our community that has been forgotten by this 12 year old government,” Ms Car said.

Land tax “When the Liberals went to the last state election, they made no mentioned of a new land tax.”

“Now Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced a lifelong land tax in this week’s budget without a mandate.”

“Local residents I’ve spoken to don’t want to see a new unending tax that they didn’t vote for. What’s worse is it will keep going up and up as land value increases and people will be locked into higher taxes without end.”

Jordan Springs High School “The refusal of the NSW Government to fund a high school

for families in Jordan Springs is disappointing for hundreds of local families. The new Premier knows how needed the school is, yet he still refused to fund it.

“After 12 long years, this government has stopped listening to families. There are already more than 800 students at Jordan Springs Public School and enrolments continue to grow. It makes no sense that the current Liberal Government claims there’s no need for a high school.”

“I will keep fighting alongside local parents until we get this much-needed high school open.”

Ropes Crossing Public School Update “Unfortunately, the Government have again ignored the chronically over-capacity Ropes Crossing Public School and failed to provide funding for stage 2 to be constructed.”

“Ropes Crossing Public School is the most overcapacity school in NSW and I will not stop fighting until Ropes Crossing Public School is upgraded.”

Richmond Road Upgrade “There has been no funding allocated to the upgrade and widening of Richmond Road. This is

disappointing for commuters who are having to sit in extreme congestion to get to work and school from the North-Western Suburbs of Sydney.

“The existing project to extend Richmond Road is still in planning and need further funding investment to see it become a reality.”

Werrington Arterial Stage 2 “There has been some planning money of Werrington Arterial Stage 2. While this is welcome, it is vital that construction on this project get underway as soon as possible to ease congestion on our local roads.”

local news

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t Paul’s Grammar alumni Juliette Ruming has won the Bateman Battersby Law Bursary.

Juliette completed the IB in 2021 achieving an ATAR of 99.75 and has been admitted to the University of New South Wales to study for a combined Bachelor of International Studies and Bachelor of Laws degree.

The Bateman Battersby Law Bursary has been conducted for 32 years.

It was instigated by the partners of Penrith legal firm Bateman Battersby Lawyers in 1990 to encourage high school students in the Penrith and Blue Mountains local government areas to undertake legal studies at a tertiary level and to assist them financially in their initial year of legal study.

Many of the previous Bursary winners have gone on to achieve great success in practising Law in a variety of fields, working in high level management positions in both the private and public sectors and teaching law at universities both in Australia and overseas. They are all representative of the depth of talent that exists in Western Sydney and include: • 1991 winner Paul Salisbury, who also won the University of Sydney Law Medal and has enjoyed a distinguished

career with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

• Dr Wayne Courtney (1993) who has taught Law at both the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne and is currently Professor

of Contract and Commercial Law at the National University of Singapore.

• Melinda Roylett (1997) formerly the head of Small and Medium Business for PayPal in Europe and currently the Global Head of Small

and Medium Business at Afterpay based in the UK. • Dr Kristin Van Zwieten (1999) a UNSW Law Medal winner and currently the Professor of Law and Finance at the University of Oxford.

• Alicia Back (2006) a UTS Law Medal Winner who has worked for global legal firms in both Sydney and London and is currently Associate Director, Loan Structuring & Execution at ANZ Bank; and • Jacqueline Edwards (2008) currently the Assistant Parliamentary Counsel at the NSW Parliamentary Counsel’s Office.

• Peter Fam (2009) a distinguished Human Rights lawyer based in Sydney.

• Tom Synott (2011) a Western Sydney University Law medal winner and currently Executive Officer at New South Wales Bar Association As the 32nd winner of the award, Juliette was presented with the Bateman Battersby Bursary trophy and bursary winner’s cheque by firm partners John Bateman and Michael Battersby.

Applications for this year’s Bateman Battersby Law Bursary are now open and more information and an application form can be found at: Bateman Battersby Law Bursary Bateman Battersby Lawyers.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Bateman Battersby Law Bursary Winner announced

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news

Westfield Penrith’s Riley Street dining precinct up in lights with ‘Lights on Riley’ A free, glow-in-the-dark underwater experience lighting up Penrith’s lively dining precinct this school holidays

W

estfield Penrith’s Riley Street Dining Precinct is soon to be aglow with a series of interactive night-time lighting installations and activities for the whole family. From 30 June to 17 July, Riley Street is set to transform into ‘PenReef’, an underwater oasis with immersive lighting, roaming performers, and glow-in-the-dark activities for everyone to enjoy.

Light projections create a dazzling walk-through experience welcoming customers to the precinct, adopting the theme of ‘PenReef’ as a nod to the nickname for the local area. While customers enjoy the eclectic artwork and glowing jellyfish illuminating Riley Street, on Thursday and Friday evenings Westfield Penrith will also be offering up glow-in-the-dark fairy floss, and face painting.

Westfield Penrith Centre Manager, Matilde Princiotta said: “We’re thrilled to be welcoming customers to ‘PenReef’ to enjoy this transformation of our Riley Street Dining Precinct into a kaleidoscope of

light, colour and fun activities. We’re continuing to focus on delivering innovative and immersive experiences for our Western Sydney community, and we hope ‘Lights on Riley’ provides a new and unique adventure during the school holidays.”

For the duration of ‘Lights on Riley’, customers can enjoy limited

edition treats from Riley Street Dining Precinct retail partners including the ‘Lights on Riley’ exclusive Ben & Jerry’s Shake available at HOYTS and the San Churro ‘PenReef’ Sundae.

Customers can visit ‘Lights on Riley’ at Westfield Penrith’s Riley Street Dining Precincts from 30 June to the 17 July from 5pm – 9pm daily.

Western Sydney Diabetes: National Diabetes Week 2022

T

he team from Western Sydney Diabetes (WSD) will spend a week at Blacktown Workers Club next month promoting diabetes awareness and prevention for National Diabetes Week (July 10-16).

For the third year, National Diabetes Week’s (July 10-16) ‘Heads Up on Diabetes’ campaign focuses on challenging diabetes-related stigma.

But western Sydney is a diabetes hotspot with disease rates higher than the NSW average, so WSD will focus on highlighting the high rates of type 2 diabetes in our region.

Western Sydney Diabetes is a collaborative initiative led by Western Sydney Local Health District and Western Sydney Primary Health Network (WentWest), PwC, Diabetes NSW&ACT and Department of Planning and Environment to address the Western Sydney diabetes hotspot.

From July 11 to 15, WSD staff will be in the foyer of the club to talk to members and their guests about diabetes and provide information on diabetes prevention, and present Feltman, a diabetes education tool.

From 9am-4pm, the team will be joined by community groups which promote healthy living and eating, including Live Life Get Active, Hearing Australia and Blacktown Council, which will also run a free yoga session for people with diabetes on Friday at 10am.

WSD Primary Prevention Manager Janine Dawson and eEngagement and Education Manager Heloise Tolar with the sugar cabinet, which will be on display at the Club to show how much sugar is in some of our favourite foods.

At 11am each day, an expert will deliver a presentation: • Monday, July 11: WSD Director and Senior Endocrinologist Professor Glen Maberly will speak about how to manage and reduce your risk of developing diabetes; • Tuesday, July 12: Donalee Rose from Hearing Australia will talk about the impact of diabetes on hearing; • Wednesday, July 13: WSD Primary Prevention Manager Janine

Dawson will discuss diabetes prevention and the resources available; • Thursday, July 14: WSD Dietitian Victoria Silvestro will discuss diabetes prevention; and • Friday, July 15: Blacktown Optometrist Joe Nazarian and Lilly Psomadelis from Sight For All will speak on diabetes’ impact on sight.

“Once you know you have diabetes you need to make sure you are getting regular HbA1c tests and working

with your GP to ensure you are using the most up to date medications and keeping your blood sugars under control,” Prof Maberly said.

“But you can prevent diabetes if you act early, simply through increased physical activity, a healthy diet and losing weight.

Group CEO, Morgan Stewart, said Blacktown Workers Club Group is committed to working with WSD to help prevent diabetes and its progression in the community.

“We will be supporting initiatives that encourage healthy eating, active living and social cohesion,” Mr Stewart said.

WSD Primary Prevention Manager Janine Dawson said WSD is delighted to partner with the club to highlight what the community can do to reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

“There are a great many local resources and programs that Blacktown residents can take advantage of to get fit and healthy,” Ms Dawson said.

“We’re looking forward to making more of the visitors to the club aware of these options, with the aim that everyone will find something that they will enjoy doing.”

Visit www.diabetesaustralia.com. au/national-diabetes-week/ for more information about National Diabetes Week 2022.

Details: www.westernsydneydiabetes.com.au

local news

E

Stan Grant facilitated the panel chat at Blacktown Hospital

representation, we can better meet the needs of our patients and staff.”

He also stressed the need to create “a welcoming environment for patients in our Aboriginal communities to automatically feel safe.”

Stan led the independent discussion and made the point that everything we’re talking about now in Australia is on trying to build stronger futures and realigning relationships to acknowledge the fact that there is great hurt.

“There is a lack of trust and there’s suspicion, sometimes even hostility, because of the legacies of our history,” Stan explained.

Carol Muthunesan, WSLHD

Aboriginal care facilitator, said the discussion is “really important because we need more Aboriginal people working in designated roles and getting people trained so we can help Aboriginal people achieve their dreams.”

“

What the WSLHD is doing is unravelling the legacy of that history and dealing with the impact of that to build stronger relationships for the future.

“

steemed journalist and Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi man, Stan Grant, has supported discussions around how to bolster the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Amid a panel chat facilitated by Stan the WSLHD launched its Aboriginal Workforce Plan on 27 June 2022.

Stan said discussions like these are critical because “if you don’t hear the voices, if you don’t know who you’re talking to, you can’t possibly devise a strategy to meet their needs.

“It’s about building an overall relationship with the communities and creating opportunities for people to enter into the workforce, stay in the organisations and to have those pathways to feel integrated,” he said.

The panel included WSLHD’s Belinda Cashman, acting district director, Aboriginal Health Strategy, Aboriginal Executive Unit; Andrew Fraser, Aboriginal workforce coordinator; Graeme Loy, chief executive; Ryan Kondek, Aboriginal mental health liaison officer; and Louise Maclean, speech pathologist.

Graeme Loy said increasing the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders employed in the district is “important to do because when our workplace meets appropriate

Elka Tinker, WSLHD Aboriginal health population trainee, added that the challenge “is always straddling two worlds and the more we can help non-

indigenous people understand where we’re coming from, by adopting deep listening to help bridge the gap, the communication between two groups will be more open and trusting.”

Lynette Mieni, WSLHD Aboriginal health practitioner, shared this sentiment saying “it’s extremely vital to get the communication channels up and running to ensure the information that’s given is clear and concise so that everybody is on the same page.”

Stan believes the two most important matters for any organisation to consider are “trust and being valued” and encourages others to “challenge themselves, their ideas and preconceptions to become more culturally aware of and more able to understand other people’s world views”.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Stan Grant on strengthening Aboriginal workforces in western Sydney

15

Charity Bingo Bash Heavenly Celebrations is hosting a fun filled night for our local community to come together to raise awareness and funds for the Pink FINNS Charity.

This local charity was created initially to support women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, to offer financial assistance to those women and their families and to educate women about breast cancer.

Today, together with the local community support, Pink FINNS has now expanded to assist women, men and families who are diagnosed with cancer.

Come and join us on Wednesday 27 July 2022, 6.00pm-10.30pm at St. Marys Diggers Club, Corner Hall St and Mamre Rd, St Marys – bookings essential.

Tickets are $50 per person (which includes entry fee and bingo games).

All funds raised for this event will be donated to the Pink FINNS Charity!

To make a booking visit:

www.trybooking.com/914405 or scan Donation can also be made via:

www.trybooking.com/au/donate/heavenlycelebrations For further information please contact Michelle Latham – Heavenly Celebration Funerals Ph: 0418 250 242

local news

By Noel Rowsell

P

enrith City Council’s ‘Let it Bee’ Flower Garden was established in Grey Gums Oval, Cranebrook in 2021 and was in full bloom from December 2021 - April 2022.

The flowers included a mix of native flowers and grasses endemic to the area, and exotic flowers which would reliably bloom over the summer period.

The natives did not perform particularly well in this instance, primarily due to the unusually wet season, and struggled to compete against the fast-growing established grass on site. So, there were limited opportunities to harvest any seed.

The conditions at the ‘Let It Bee’ site was a mono-culture of turf, sitting on hard, poor quality clay soil. This mono-culture of turf, in addition to the clay soil conditions, had resulted in a poor soil structure, which was low in soil micro activity and biodiversity.

Prior to the planting of the flower garden, any trees left to grow in this type of soil would undoubtedly have failed to thrive, remaining small and stunted without producing any significant canopy, shade or habitat.

The variety of flora planted at ‘Let It Bee’ was planned to attract all sorts of insect activity, from flying pollinators such as butterflies and bees, to bugs and snails. These insects interact with one another and with plants and small animals, forming a web of biological activity above and below the soil.

In Autumn, the meadow was tilled into the ground, breaking up the soil and increasing the organic matter. As the flowers and plants broke down, they provided food for the microorganisms in the ground, increasing the soil biodiversity and microbial activity.

This activity improved the entry and storage of water, plant nutrition and resistance to erosion, resulting in great conditions for the newly-planted trees to thrive. Good soil quality and increased organic matter improved the water holding capacity of the soil, increasing the resilience of the trees to survive the weather extremes often experienced in Penrith.

Penrith City Council was awarded funding for the project under the Greening the Great West Walk Program from the NSW government.

The project is a tree-planting grant and the application included criteria for innovative proposals.

This proposal was put forward as a

way of increasing value to the overall project by: • Creating visual interest • Educating the public on our native pollinators • Activating public space • Creating canopy • Increasing biodiversity and • Improving soils, the project is multifaceted in the value it brings to the community.

• Trialing native flowers in the public domain and harvesting their seeds for propagation by Council’s nursery In April, the flowers were cultivated back into the ground and trees were planted on the site. The trees are currently being maintained and watered for a 12-month establishment period.

78 trees have been planted, all are native and mostly Eucalyptus: Angophora floribunda; Corymbia eximia; Eucalyptus longifolia; Eucalyptus tereticornis; Melalueca styphelloides; Eucalyptus polyanthemos; Eucalyptus crebra; Eucalyptus fibrosa; Eucalyptus sideroxylon; Eucalyptus moluccana; Corymbia maculata and Eucalyptus eugenioides Penrith City Council is looking for further tree planting opportunities on site and along the Great West Walk, with the support of the NSW Government. Council officers will be presenting the ‘Let it Bee’ project at the Parks and Leisure Conference in Lismore in late July.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Let It Bee Garden is now a Tree Garden

17

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

18

local news

Students discover a rewarding career

A

record cohort of high school students have taken their first steps towards a life changing career in health.

24 students from 14 high schools participated in the Health Inspirations program at Nepean Hospital where they were exposed to a variety of potential health careers.

More than 50 hospital staff helped facilitate a week of activities that saw students get hands on with health, including ward visits, education seminars, and one on ones with a range of health professionals.

Health Inspirations delivers an interactive and engaging set of experiences that encourages students to learn and reflect on their interests, skills and personal attributes, and how

these may complement their career choices.

The program has left a lasting

impression with students, it strengthening a pursuit of a career in health care services.

“It was extremely educational, I have figured out my career,” commented Amelie.

“I learnt that I 100% want a career in Health. The nurses at Nepean inspired me,” Katelyn added.

Warwick Perks, coordinator of the Health Inspirations program said the feedback has been nothing short of amazing.

“The feedback from the schools, parents and careers advisors has been positive and overwhelming. They are very appreciative of the opportunity afforded to their students.”

“The engagement with the program has been outstanding and it only sets to benefit our growing community and our future workforce.”

A vehicle security message from Nepean Police Residents within Twin Creeks/ Luddenham area, please be mindful of your home and vehicle security.

A number of incidents have occurred where high performance motor vehicles are being targeted across Sydney during break-ins late at night and in the early hours of the morning.

Lock away keys and other valuables when you go to bed, ensure your external lighting remains on overnight, lock all doors, including ‘doggy’ doors as well as windows, remove items from your vehicles and report any suspicious persons or vehicles in the area to 000.

Please be vigilant and secure your community.

Surprise your special someone with romantic flowers & gifts from Kingswood Florist.

Don’t forget to add a cuddly soft toy and delicious box of chocolates to your order for the ultimate wow factor.

We can deliver your flowers and gift to Kingswood, NSW or nationwide.

Kingswood Florist, Creative Balloons, Penrith Florist and St Marys Florist 4732 2182 • St Marys 9623 4589

local news

21 Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Photos: Mountainscape Aerial Photography

How do we protect the Nepean Belle during a flood?

By Carol Bennett, Nepean Belle

W

ay back when, to Chris and I unending days of rain meant loads of traffic and delays getting to work, cancelled kids sports with weekends spent indoors watching movies, and watching the washing pile grow…. and grow. (I think I was the only one watching the washing pile…!). No big deal, just a hassle. And then in 2013 we bought the Nepean Belle!

April 2015 was our first flood on the Nepean River. It was only minor, but it was enough to teach us the basics of what we needed to keep our boats safe.

It gave us the ability to put together a flood management plan based on our first-hand experience.

We have enacted the plan a few times over the years and after each flood we discuss what changes we made at the time, or could make, to improve the plan. You know, “work smarter, not harder”.

The flood in March 2021 was the first “big” flood we had and the speed at which the river rose caught us by surprise. One of the learnings from that flood (and an update to the plan) was to leave our flood lines (ropes) in place around the large trees at the slipway to enable us to set and prepare at short notice.

That small change made us much better prepared for the March 2022 flood. Although the river did not rise as high or as fast as it did in 2021,

Optimistic in 2020 with no clue of what was in store for our region: The beautiful Nepean Belle

our confidence grew and with the preparation already in hand it enabled us to add more improvements to the way we manage when we are in the thick of it.

Capt. Chris is an ideas man - he is always trying to improve what we do; making processes more efficient; giving our customers a better experience; and making life easier during a natural disaster event when there’s a lot going all around us.

How do we protect the boats?

Our office and our two boats (Nepean Belle and Penrith Platypus) are moored in a ‘bay’ on the Nepean River that was cleverly designed as part of the Slipway when the Belle was launched in 1982. Our group of vessels, or ‘flotilla’ as we call it, is secured to land using a series of ‘lines’ (ropes and steel cables) on both the front and rear (known as ‘spring’ and ‘stern’ lines).

When the river rises, it becomes wider and the flow of the river increases. The higher the river rises the more dangerous the flow becomes, and our bay offers less protection on the western (river) side. In order to protect the flotilla from the powerful flow of the river we tie up to our flood lines, unhook our normal lines and drive the vessels eastward, toward the shore and out of the flow.

I say ‘we’ however it is essentially Chris doing all the work with my contribution being less productive.

I’m the one who does the worrying for all of us - food, dry clothes, kids, social media, weather warnings, our passengers, bookings, cruise schedule and everything else. Chris is always super calm and level-headed and he’s definitely the one you want in charge in stressful times (which is why he’s the Captain).

Each time Chris adjusts the flood lines, he allows enough for a one-

Photos: Mountainscape Aerial Photography

metre height increase. He checks the river level at 15-minute intervals which allows him to lengthen the lines and manage the process based on the speed of the flood. This means when the river is in flood, Chris is staying on the boats and often only able to catnap for short periods.

When the river level peaks, he reverses the process and shortens the lines until he is in a position to reattach our normal spring and stern lines. This part is particularly tricky as the flotilla needs to be in the correct position as the water recedes – we don’t want to find ourselves beached on a power pole or on the bank of the bay!

We have also learned that the river can recede as quickly as it rises, and this is why Chris will stay onboard the vessels until he is able to safely secure them to their normal spring and stern lines. He is usually onboard for at least a week, sometimes longer.

This week in

s e r u t c pi

A massive thank you to Certified Pizza St Marys for feeding our hungry volunteers with awesome pizza and pasta! Penrith NSW State Emergency Service are so thankful for a supportive community.

Emergency Crews including Orchard Hills Rural Fire Brigade swung into action to remove a tree that fell onto powerlines, Wentworth Road and Carolyn Chase were both closed whilst crews renderered the area safe.

Netball NSW and Penrith District Netball Association hosted the 2022 HART Junior State Titles at Jamison Park Netball Complex last weekend, before having to make the difficult decision of cancelling the final day due to the weather.

Nepean River: Not what anyone wanted to see again, especially this soon!

Photo: MountainScape Aerial Photography

Melissa McIntosh MP visiting Penrith SES.

Melissa McIntosh MP with Cathy from Penrith Community Kitchen getting meals ready to feed the volunteers.

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local news

Anticipation is high for the

By Noel Rowsell

T

he dedicated and committed volunteers at Zig Zag Railway are among thousands of train / rail enthusiasts eager to see the heritage rail line reopen later this year.

The numerous sagas behind the line’s closure back in 2012 would test the most ardent rail fan and it is a credit to the numerous volunteers who turn up every week to mend, maintain,

replace or renew locomotives, rolling stock (carriages), stations, sleepers and track.

Originally constructed as part of the main Western Line, the Zig Zag was opened in October, 1869.

The Zig Zag Railway lost accreditation in 2012, then the State Mine Fire, part of the October bushfires in 2013, caught the volunteers at Zig Zag off guard, coming in from a new direction for the first time in memory and causing carnage throughout the system.

local news

The railway suffered millions of dollars of damage, which included ten passenger carriages and four accommodation carriages. The most extensive damage caused by the fires was at Bottom Points workshop, where most of the south side was destroyed.

This included the spare parts stores, offices and most of the machine shop. Electrical equipment to operate signals was totally destroyed, as was the repeater tower for the safety radio communication system and the internal telephone lines and exchange.

One thousand new railway sleepers were also lost, as was the caretaker’s converted accommodation carriage Hard work, long hours and endless enthusiasm from the volunteers saw the rail line begin to emerge from the ashes, then mindless vandalism to several carriages and other equipment put the whole project on the back foot.

More selfless dedication and hard work from the volunteers, who had shown amazing fortitude against the crushing circumstances, once again saw the railway headed toward redemption.

2019 and 2020 would however have yet another sting in the tail. In lateDecember 2019, the Zig Zag Railway was hit by the Gospers Mountain bushfire.

The station buildings and most of the rolling stock survived, with the exception of a few already vandalised carriages. The toilet block, storage areas, communications hut, signalling equipment, water and power supplies and main office, with the past 45 years of records, were all destroyed, along with an estimated 1500 sleepers, all of which pushed the reopening a few years back.

2,500 new sleepers have now been replaced and once again the railway is approaching the era of a new dawn, opening to the public in late-2022.

“We have an amazing team and a great project manager,” said Lee

The spectacular scenery, rolling stock and volunteers of the historic Zig Zag Railway. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Wiggins, CEO of Zig Zag Railway.

“We’ve received State Government funding and recently put in a new car park at Clarence Station.

“The other challenges include rebuilding rolling stock, restoring the engine which had been idle for some time and governance changes.

“The management team is working hard in the background, we’re working closely with the Regulator, training volunteers and running rolling stock along the line.”

“Now’s the time for anyone that has ever thought about getting involved to give us a call,” said Zig Zag Chairman Ben Lawrence.

“Zig Zag is a volunteer organisation, it takes a lot of people to be able to restart our operations and then run consistently, so we need your help.

“We have roles available from the basic maintenance of the railway – like mowing lawns, gardening and painting to the operational roles of

train controller, signaller, fireman and eventually driver, if that’s your goal.

“You don’t have to have experience – we provide training for all operational roles. All it takes is to join as a member

and put your hand up, we’ll help you do the rest.”

Enquiries can be made by going to the Zig Zag website: www.zigzagrailway.com.au

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

re-opening of Zig Zag Railway

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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local COLUMNIST

Pets and your Flood Safety Plan W

ith our recent deluge of rain, it is important to have a safety and evacuation plan in place for your family, including your pets. Whether your pets are at home with you or need to be relocated, you need to prepare for their safety.

It is important to know that pets should not be abandoned unless it is absolutely impossible to safely evacuate them. When organising your pets for evacuation, try to be prepared with a “grab and go” emergency bag that contains the following: • Microchip paperwork • Current vaccination certificates and a photo of your pet • Pet medications and information on any medical conditions • Bowls, bedding, litter trays and non-perishable food • Ensure your pet is wearing a collar

and tag and is on a lead or in a carry cage Remember to stay calm and think clearly when putting your plan into action. Give yourself plenty of time to deal with any unforeseen problems and put your plan into place early.

Animals often behave differently during emergencies — they will pick up on your stress and may panic and

run. Preparation and planning can reduce stress for you and your pets.

If you are in the situation that you are unable to evacuate or have to leave your pets behind, try to remember the following advice: • Where possible bring your pets inside and confine them to a small space so you know where to locate them. Ideally a room with smaller

windows and adequate air flow such as a bathroom • Post a sign on the front door to let emergency workers know there is a pet still inside the house • Provide hiding places for your pets – A carry cage where the door opens at the end is the perfect option for this • Do not tether pets up as they will be unable to flee if danger is imminent • Ensure pets are easy to identify with a collar and tag • Leave multiple water bowls and food bowls in the room If you need assistance with your pets, contact your local Greencross Vet to arrange boarding or treatments.

If you need assistance with an evacuation plan contact NSW Emergency Services and they can help you take the appropriate action to keep you and your pets safe.

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

Looking for adoptive parents and forever home

F

riends of Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter seek the “extras” for the dogs and cats in care at Hawkesbury Pound. They also visit the pound each week and take photographs and temperament tests of the animals to post online and promote the animals. They upload their images and opinions of

STUNNING BEAU WANTS TO MEET YOU

these animals to Facebook, Twitter and PetRescue. To follow them, look them up on facebook and twitter.

For any inquires related to these animals at Hawkesbury Pound, please contact them directly on (02) 4560 4644.

PICK ME THIS WEEKEND

TIGER IS A HAPPY LITTLE GUY

Beau is a gentle placid boy with a very friendly nature, he gets on well with other dogs and has been great with the staff. If you are interested in adopting our beautiful Beau please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet him.

Holly is a sweet girl, she just loves being the centrer of attention. If you are interested in adopting Holly please come to the shelter to meet her.

Tiger is a happy go lucky little guy. He loves going for walks and playing in the exercise yard, if you are interested in adopting Tiger please come to the shelter with your family dog and the children to meet him just so we can be sure they are all going to get on well together.

Cost: $416.30 Type: Dog Sex: Male

Cost: $49.00 Type: Cat Sex: Female

Cost: $416.30 Type: Dog Sex: Male

Age: 6 months Breed: bull arab

All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

Age: 5 years Breed: Domestic Short Hair

**All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

Age: 1 year and 8 months Breed: Labrador Cross Size: Medium

**All prices include microchipping, lifetime council registration, desexing and 1st Vaccination.

R251000145

ENTERTAINMENT

➜

See if you can start at the bottom and find your way to the top.

WORD SEARCH

➜

cat AGILE CLAWS CROUCH FOOD FURRY

HAIRBALL HISS KITTENS LITTER BOX MEOW

MILK PAWS POUNCE PURR SCRATCH

SLEEP STEALTHY TAIL WHISKERS

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

School Holiday KIDS PUZZLES

27

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

28

ENTERTAINMENT

Camped by a billabong

By BEN CRANNEY

I wondered which tree to look in first. The giant red gum, the yellow box growing around the fence, the willow drooping into the billabong?

The story goes that Ned Kelly and his gang, while rustling some cattle around here, hid treasure in a tree before dining at the local homestead.

Apparently, it was an amicable dinner, but I’d be welcoming too if a notorious bushranger asked for a feed.

I was by the Murray River, near Yarrawonga on the NSW-Victorian border. Yarrawonga swells from 8000 to over 25000 people on long

weekends. Campers spill out along the banks of the Murray (it’s illegal to camp on the NSW side without permission from the landowner, even if you’re a Kelly), so time it when it’s empty to get the best spots and a bit of peace, and water ski some of the best straights in Australia, using overhanging branches as a natural slalom.

For a slower paced visit, there are plenty of fishing holes. The river was dammed here, creating Lake Mulwala. Dead trees on flooded river flats create perfect breeding grounds and hiding places for giant fish to grow, including Murray Cod. You’ll

SUDOKU: HARD

need patience and skill, not to mention strength, to land one of these, but there are others to catch too. Yellow Belly or Redfin are both tasty, and you’d be unlucky to not catch a carp (but don’t eat it - tastes like mud). Just don’t throw these last two back, they are both pests.

If the river is too much, seek out another treasure in the area, the wineries of Rutherglen. It doesn’t have the star power of the Hunter or the Yarra Valley, but it produces wines just as good and also hosts a leg of the A Day on the Green music tour. And unlike many of the Hunter wineries, the cellar door is often part of the old

buildings, so you get assaulted by that wonderful barrel room smell, from the wine infused, generations old oak.

Try St Leonards for a feed overlooking the creek, or Bullers for a drink while wondering the aviaries full of native birds. If fancy surrounds are what you want, then go straight to All Saints and its castle like grounds.

Or try them all, and go on the winery walkabout weekend in June. If you pass through Corowa on the way, stop and learn about Corowa’s role in Australia’s federation.

And if you happen to find Kelly’s treasure, just remember who gave you the tip.

Mike’s Pantry

with Michael Creed

Crumbed Chicken Drumsticks Ingredients: 6 chicken drumsticks 3 eggs ½ cup all-purpose flour I packet French onion soup mix ¼ cup bread crumbs (fine dried) ¼ cup crushed ritz crackers ¼ crushed cornflakes 2 garlic cloves (minced) 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper

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

Cooking: • Preheat oven to 180c.

• In a shallow bowl beat eggs with a fork until blended.

• On a plate mix together the flour, French onion soup mix, bread crumbs, garlic, cornflakes, crackers, salt and pepper. Dip the chicken in the flour mixture, evenly coating it then dip it into the egg mixture and then back into the flour/breadcrumb

mixture. Repeat this process for all of the drumsticks.

• Once finished place on a tray and refrigerate them for about 15 minutes.

• Lightly coat your baking dish with some olive oil and place the drumsticks into the dish and place in the oven for about 30 minutes or until cooked through. Serve with chopped parsley sprinkled over the top as a nice garnish.

OUT N ABOUT with Malama

To advertise in Nepean News or request your event to be added call Malama on 0416 203 777 OR EMAIL: sales@nepeannews.com.au

Forshaw family from WA enjoying Lights on Riley Penrith.

A great recent event was the annual Penrith Dolls, Bears, Craft and Collectables Show in Jamisontown. Hosted by the Ross Hutchison Foundation, the proceeds were donated to Ovarian Cancer Research.

The display had plenty to offer for everyone from vintage to modern dolls, bears, toys, handmade gifts and BBQ from Nepean Mens Shed.

Kirsty, Carmel and Mary checking out the Elvis Movie at Glenbrook.

We invite you to come in and see our tasty range of Authentic Italian Smallgoods.

Using only 100% Australian Pork and certified Gluten Free we are certain there is more than one of our range that will satisfy your tastes.

MONTECATINI SPECIALITY SMALLGOODS Unit 1/6 Robertson Pl, Penrith NSW 2750

BY ROLAND MELOSI

PH 4721 2550 FAX 4731 2557

ENTERTAINMENT

31 Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Women in the Arts | Thursday 28 July 6.30pm

A

s part of our Women Out West series, Penrith Performing & Visual Arts brings you a very special panel discussion: Women in the Arts.

Our distinguished panel of visual artists will discuss their creative practice and give us an insight into what it’s like to be a woman in the arts. There will also be an opportunity for audience participation with a Q&A. Tickets are FREE but booking is essential. These events are very popular so please book early to avoid disappointment.

We are delighted to bring Women Out West to our community and invite you to join us and be part of the continuing advocacy for safety, equality, diversity and growth.

Women out West is supported by Celestino and Nepean News.

PANELISTS Claire Healy is a Blue Mountains based contemporary artist and winner of the 2022 Sulman Prize with her partner Sean Cordeiro with whom she shares two children. Their practice reflects on a preoccupation with the dynamics of global mobility, fallout of consumer society, and contemporary notion of home. Their work has been included in numerous exhibitions in Belgium, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, Turkey, Taiwan, the UK

and the USA. Elly Chatfield is a renowned artist, poet, actor, and much-loved and respected elder of the Aboriginal community; and recipient of the 2022 Blue Mountains Local Woman of the Year Award. Elly is a proud Gamillaroi woman, single mother of two, grandmother and highly regarded in her role as Elders support worker at the Blue Mountains Aboriginal Culture and Resource Centre. A child

of the Stolen Generation, Elly’s life and resilience is an inspiration.

Linda Brescia is currently exhibiting A Girl Like You at Penrith Regional Gallery. Linda is a Western Sydneybased artist who investigates the banalities and complexities of everyday life experiences and rituals through painting, photography, sculpture and performance. Her practice explores dynamics around visibility and invisibility, masking, care

and self-assertion. In 2020, Brescia was awarded the Blacktown City Art Prize for her portrait of American patron of the arts Peggy Guggenheim. Brescia has a long history of facilitating workshops and community projects for numerous organisations and groups.

Christine Dean graduated from the University of Sydney in 1986 with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Art History. Subsequently she completed a Graduate Diploma in Visual Arts at Sydney College of the Arts and a PhD at the College of Fine Arts, University of New South Wales. Christine has exhibited locally and internationally in exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and Toby Fine Arts, New York. In 2000, Christine was awarded a Pollock-Krasner Fellowship and in 2001, she undertook an Australia Council residency at the 18th Street Arts Complex, Los Angeles.

FACILITATOR Lisa Finn Powell – Journalist, Speaker, Performer and Author of The Thin Time and upcoming Accidental Expat, and PR Coordinator, PP&VA TICKET PRICES Free, bookings essential DATE & TIME Thursday 28 July, 6.30pm - 8pm VENUE Mullins Studio, Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre 597 High Street, Penrith

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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ENTERTAINMENT

MOTU in Penrith

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fter sell-out shows in Liverpool, ‘Motu of Western Sydney’ production is back by popular demand. Sydney’s premiere Pacific Islands cultural centre Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts in partnership with Pelesasa Pictures, will stage the production on the evenings of Friday 15th and Saturday 16th of July 2022 at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre. A special matinee performance for youth will also stage on the morning of Saturday 16th of July 2022.

Showing at the hub of performing arts in Penrith, ‘Motu of Western Sydney’ is a communal voice of Pacific Islands communities of Australia showcasing theatre, dance, music and other creative arts — all streamed through the eyes of PasifikaWestern Sydney. The production will encompass all the beautiful things about our communities, whilst still having the ability to hold a mirror up to ourselves and the wider Australian communities and our calls for change.

With a cast of over 100 Pacific Islanders from across Western Sydney, the production will feature cultural performances from Tokelau, Fiji, Samoa, Aotearoa, Tonga, Cook Islands and Hawai’i. A celebration to uplift spirits and ignite inspiration through traditional and contemporary Pasifika

story-telling of what it means to be both Pasifika and Australian in the here and now.

A story of youth struggling with identity, a community navigating through the pandemic and cultures fighting to stay alive. Two Pacific Islands youth from opposite ends of the tracks in Western Sydney are at a loss of direction in a lockdown era and when all is seemingly derailed — the Ancestors arrive to protect them. The Ancestors unleash new and old Pacific Islands stories of resilience to inspire the central characters’ navigation through the future, by reminding them of their inherent value within and the rich Pacific Islands cultures that run through them.

‘Motu of Western Sydney’ aims to unite Pacific Islanders from all walks of life, as we bring together dance groups, production companies, local artists and community groups. We encourage the Sydney community to join us for show like no other. Tickets are now on sale through The Joan website — https://www.thejoan.com. au/events/motu-of-westernsydney/.

Motu of Western Sydney is produced

by Maryjane and Fred Schwenke of Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts, and directed and written by Moemoana Schwenke and Taofia Pelesasa.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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T

he ever-popular term time workshops return for Term 3 at Penrith Regional Gallery.

Inspired by some of the amazing artworks in the Gallery’s collection and exhibitions, children get creative with a range of immersive art workshops.

All skill levels welcome with new art making projects each term. Materials are supplied for all workshops. Tickets are selling quickly so book now to avoid disappointment!

Term 3 Art Workshops: Bubs Club | 0-2 yrs and their grownups | Tuesdays 26 Jul - 30 Aug | 11am-12pm | $35 per child Foster a love of art in your little one as they playfully explore the Gallery in a relaxed, social and bub-friendly setting exploring artworks, playing games, making art and singing songs. www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au/events/ bubs-club-term-3-ages-0-2/

Art Odyssey | 9-12yrs | Wednesdays 27 Jul - 14 Sep | 4-5:30pm | $190 per child, per term Students immerse themselves in the world of art through engaging 2D and 3D projects while using materials such as graphite, charcoal, pastel, acrylics, watercolours and clay, as well as visits to the Gallery’s current exhibitions. www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au/events/artodyssey-term-3-ages-9-12/

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Term 3 Art Workshops at Penrith Regional Gallery

Art and Seek | 3-5yrs and their grownups | Tuesdays 26 Jul - 30 Aug | 9:30-10:30am | $75 per term Little ones explore their creative sides and develop fine motor skills as they learn about art through play, stories, exhibition tours and messy art making in the studio. www.penrithregionalgallery. com.au/events/art-seek-term-3-ages-3-5/ Art Adventure | 5-8yrs | Saturdays 30 Jul - 17 Sep | 10-11:30am | $190 per child, per term Children unleash their creativity as they paint, draw, print and sculpt in these interactive classes and build their art making skills across a variety of mediums and techniques. www.penrithregionalgallery.com.au/events/artadventure-term-3-ages-5-8/

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

38

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NEPEAN HISTORY

I

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

only to old fishing hands and a stranger n January 1894 a magisterial enquiry would not likely select such a spot for fishing. was held at the Penrith Court House With the evidence given by Dr Brady at the

by Coroner John King Lethbridge on enquiry it was thought that Mr Lethbridge the body of a man found in Mulgoa Creek. should not have so hurriedly brought the Sergeant Thorndike gave evidence that he enquiry to a close by recording as he did, an went out to the Creek and found on the bank open verdict on his own account, especially near an oak tree, a brown check tweed coat as the medical officer stated distinctly that and vest and a straw hat in the water and the the exuding of blood from the right ear is dead body of a man floating with his head usually indicative of fracture of the base of half out of the water and with the help of the skull, but it was impossible for him to tell others at the scene he recovered the body. The whether such was the case “without a post man was about 5ft 9in and well-built with fair mortem examination” and he added that he complexion, dark brown hair, a short clipped would make the necessary examination to thick beard and reddish-brown moustache, not further delay the finding, but the Coroner blue eyes, thick eyebrows and a broad nose.  The 1930’s photo of Mulgoa Creek courtesy of Fairfax archives glass negatives online. would not consent. Mr Lethbridge may His body was dressed in a coloured cotton or may not have been right on the score of shirt, cotton undershirt, drawers, thick tweed expense, as a post-mortem cost around three guineas, but with a view of trousers same colour as coat and vest, partly worn Balmoral boots and really finding out if there had been any foul play, the examination should in the coat and vest he found a white cotton handkerchief, 2 knives, a have been made so as to clear up the mystery at once. On 27th January a bunch of 8 keys on a white metal chain, a briar pipe, matchbox, 2 pieces connection was found to the deceased when a gentleman came to Penrith of tobacco, a box of matches, a small pocketbook, pencil, a hand fishing and recognised the handwriting on the letters found near the deceased line, a piece of paper that was apparently the top of a race book. He found was that of “Lansdell”. He was well known and well connected and in no money or valuables in the pockets of the trousers or anything that receipt of remittances from England where he had a large number of would lead to his identification. Dr Brady gave evidence and said that he relatives. The gentleman was well acquainted with the deceased and his was a legally qualified medical practitioner, practicing in and residing at relatives and had no hesitation in identifying him by the particulars given Penrith and he viewed the dead body of the man at the hospital morgue by the police and his clothing, as well as by the handwriting of several and after shifting the body he found three superficial wounds over the torn letters in the possession of Sergeant Thorndyke. The gentleman left eyebrow and the tongue was partly protruding, the eyes were a light said he saw the man a few days before his body was found, saying the hazel or grey colour, the pupils normal and from the right ear blood was deceased was of an unusually quiet disposition and he could not swim. exuding but there were no external marks of violence as the exuding of (Ed - On doing some further digging I found:- His name was Alexander blood from the right ear is usually indicative of a fracture of the base of Woodward Lansdell, born in Canterbury, Kent in 1846 to Henry and the skull but he could not ascertain what was the cause of death without Julia Lansdell. At the age of 38 he came to Australia as an unassisted a post mortem. On manipulating the head, he found no rigor mortis, the immigrant on the “Port Jackson” from London to Sydney in January, 1884 head on the neck was quite flexible and on examining this he could find (3rd class), his occupation down as “Clerk”. (furthermore - The letters no external marks or fracture. It seems at this stage after some argument play a significant part in this story, because at the magisterial enquiry and several sharp words between Coroner Lethbridge and Dr Brady, the they were missing from the very well documented evidence collected Coroner said that he saw no occasion for a post-mortem examination and remained so after the enquiry, but somehow on the 27th of January and he would “give his own opinion” and he did, and found as follows they turned up when the “gentleman” came to Penrith and were found “From the evidence adduced, the deceased name unknown in the Mulgoa in the possession of Sergeant Thorndyke!!). One of the letters deciphered Creek in the District of Penrith in the Colony of NSW on the 17th January was from William Harding in Paddington, Sydney dated 15/12/1892 to 1894 was found dead without any marks of violence appearing on the William Cuddon (Jnr) in Christchurch, NZ on behalf of Alexander who body and that death was caused by suffocation by drowning, but how or was about to go to New Zealand in search of employment there. He had by what means he came to be drowned there is not sufficient evidence to been out of employment for some time here working as a canvasser and enable me to say”. On the 20th January the way the magisterial enquiry traveller for Sydney firms. The part of the river where his body was found ended gave rise to reaction from the public who did not like the way it was called Elliott Creek, part of the Mulgoa Creek. The probate wasn’t ended as there was not the slightest evidence as to who this man was. He released until 1898 in London to his brother Reverend Henry Lansdell, of was respectably and cleanly attired and had the appearance of having a personal effects and £91 and it gave Alexander’s address in Sydney as 55 home somewhere. The body was well nourished but still there were no Elizabeth Street. ACCIDENT OR FOUL PLAY? papers, letters or money, or was any of his clothing marked in any way to lead to his identification. When the body was first seen by the police Sources: New South Wales, Australia, Unassisted Immigrant Passenger Lists, there were some superficial wounds and blood that was exuding from the 1826-1922, NSW, Australian Government Gazettes, 1853-1899, Ancestry, Trove, right ear, but there did not however appear to be any marks of violence or Evening News (Sydney, NSW), Nepean Times, Sydney Morning Herald, England & Wales National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995. were there any traces of a struggle. Apparently that location was known

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Lethbridge v Brady

39

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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SPORT

Nepean youngsters off to State Championships

Tiani Honeman

Tilly Casburn

Mackenzie Wilson

Three of the Nepean juniors chosen in the U13 team to contest the State Field Hockey Championships. Photos supplied

By Noel Rowsell

T

he Nepean Hockey Association has selected an Under 13 Girls team to compete at the 2022 Under 13 Field Hockey State Championships, which are being held at the Bathurst Hockey Centre, Lions Club Drive, Kelso from 8th-10th July.

The Nepean team is Summer Knowles, Sienna Knowles, Tiarni Honeman, Ruby Delgado, Tilly Casburn, Addison Finnimore, Mckenzie Wilson, Aleida Cook, Lily James, Anna Toohey, Charlotte Wonderley, Ive-Ray Glover, Jayleah Jackson, Stacey Baxter, Jasnoor Kaur, coach Ryan Knowles, manager Tabatha Knowles.

Nepean is drawn in Pool A, Division 3, and will play Lithgow and Newcastle on Friday 8th July, then Central Coast, Southern Highlands and New England on Sunday 9th July.

Should Nepean finish in either 1st or 2nd position in Pool A, they will play in one of the two semifinals on Sunday morning, with the two winning teams advancing to the Grand Final at 1pm.

In addition to the three days of the Championships, there was also two x free Goal-Keeping Clinics, open for all goal-keepers, on Thursday 7th July, also at the Bathurst Hockey Centre.

U13 Nepean team showing players in their respective Club colours. Photos supplied.

Local player selected for Australian Hockey Championships

By Noel Rowsell

2

Nepean Hockey Association junior Annie Rose Buckley has been chosen to represent NSW Blue at the Australian U/21 Field Hockey Championships in Perth. Photo supplied.

0-year old Nepean Hockey Association junior representative Annie Rose Buckley has been chosen in the NSW Blue Under 21 Women’s team, which will contest the Australian Under 21 Field Hockey Championships in Perth from 20th27th July.

NSW is sending two teams to the national championships, including a further two Nepean representatives

who play locally but live away from the district, being Taquira Mcgrath (NSW State) and Abigail Simpson (NSW Blue).

NSW Blue is drawn in Pool B, alongside Western Australia, Tasmania and Victoria, whilst NSW State is in Pool A, drawn to play Queensland, ACT and South Australia / Northern Territory in the preliminary rounds.

All details regarding the draw and the Championships can be found at https://hockeyaustralia.altiusrt.com/ competitions/327#pool470

SPORT

Manuel-Marques Sidarous in Italy at the Juventus Academy World Cup. Photos supplied

By Noel Rowsell

E

arlier this month, the Continassa training ground in Milan, Italy hosted the Juventus Academy World Cup 2022 from 14th-18th June, with 82 teams from 22 nations participating in various tournaments, across several age categories.

Australia sent an U10 team to Italy, which won the Bronze Division Final with a 3-2 win over Canada.

9-year old Mamre Anglican School student Manuel-Marques Sidarous

(Sun Valley) had the honour of being chosen as the Australian U10 team captain and ultimately had the thrill of a lifetime, walking down the red carpet at the Allianz Stadium to accept his team’s trophy for winning their division.

Australia mixed their form up in the early games, falling 8-0 to Poland, drawing 1-1 with Cyprus, drawing 2-2 with Chile, losing 5-1 to Tunisia then falling 10-0 to Canada in the final preliminary game.

The Australian youngsters advanced to the Bronze Division semi-finals, recording a 2-0 win over Oman, setting up a

return clash with the strong Canadian team.

The Final was a complete turnaround for the young Australians, who played well above their preliminary games form to record a 3-2 win and take the Division Title.

Once back in Australia, Manuel will return to his busy schedule, training daily through the week with both the Juventus Academy and his Football NSW Skill Acquisition Program (SAP) club team Bonnyrigg White Eagles, playing for Mamre Anglican School and enjoying a weekend of action with games on both Saturdays and Sundays.

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Young Aussies win the Juventus Academy Trophy

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

42

SPORT

Local clubs to contest Eric Apperly Shield

By Noel Rowsell

T

hree of the local western Sydney Golf Clubs will contest the 2022 Eric Apperly Shield Pennant competition.

First contested in 1952, the Eric Apperly Shield is an inter-club and district teams competition, open to metropolitan and regional clubs.

Played from July to September, the competition is for female & male golfers who are 21 years of age & under.

Named after one of NSW Golf’s pioneering greats, the Eric Apperly Shield is considered the State’s pre-eminent interclub competition for elite junior Golf.

Penrith and Stonecutters Ridge have both been drawn in Section 2, alongside Oatlands, Concord Blue and New South Wales, whilst Richmond will play in Section 3, alongside The Lakes, Avondale, St Michael’s Silver and Northbridge.

Brent Gadd. Photo by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

The competition runs from 10th July to 7th August, with the Elimination Preliminary Final on 14th August, Semi-Finals on 21st August and Final on 28th August - venues to be confirmed.

The Richmond squad is: Ti Fox, Reggie Papps, Matt Gallahar, Ben Izzard, Mason Gounder, Charlton Carter, Bradley Ellis, Hayden Carver.

The Penrith squad is: Blade Gadd, Michael Organ, Blake Murray, Lachlan Baker, Zavier Button, Brent Gadd, Reserve Ryder Jeerzyna, manager Josh Gadd.

The Stonecutters Ridge squad is: Will Blomley, Ryan Cadle, Ray Costello, Darcy Mackay, Kade Webber, Harrison Wilde, Cooper Ison (development player), manager Ray Clapham.

Three additional local juniors will also compete for Concord GC in this year’s Eric Apperly Shield, with Grace Lee (Glenmore Park), Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) and Tyler Nesci (Leonay) all being selected into the Concord squad.

Pennant Golf a washout All Pennant Golf in western Sydney was understandably a washout on Sunday, with Leonay GC and Twin Creeks CGC both closed due to the weather conditions.

The Major Pennant Division 1 relegation game between Twin Creeks and Liverpool has been postponed to the 17th July, whilst the Division 4 relegation game between Leonay and Randwick was also called off, although there has not been any official advice on a postponement date as yet.

Provided the weather improves quickly, Penrith GC will host Cronulla GC this Sunday in the second leg of their Division 1 relegation match, with Penrith holding an advantage following a 4-3 win at Cronulla on 26th June.

The Master Pennant Division 3 Final between Springwood CC and Woolooware GC was also abandoned, with a new date to be advised by Golf NSW.

PENRITH PANTHERS

SPORT

By Noel Rowsell

2

5-year old Mario Tambakis (Berkshire Park) is currently the undisputed #1-ranked Heavyweight Left-handed Arm-Wrestler in Australia, and is also ranked 7th in Right-handed.

Undefeated in left-handed bouts in 2022, Mario won the 2022 Melbourne Cup on 26th March, the Over The Top Down Under title on 30th April and the WA State Title on 28th May. Whilst suffering two losses this year right-handed, Mario has still won two right-handed titles, being the WA State Title in May and the 2022 Melbourne Cup in March.

His left-handed record this year is 13-0 and, in his career, he is 25-2. His overall career across both hands is an impressive 67-19 win-loss, winning an overall 9 titles across NSW, Victoria and Western Australia.

Blessed with movie star looks, Mario is described as a quietly-spoken gentleman, who lives at home with his parents and brother.

Australia’s #1-ranked Left-hand Arm-Wrestler Mario Tambakis (Berkshire Park) is chasing a NSW title on 23rd July. Photos supplied

Mario joined the Sydney Spartans Arm-Wrestling Club in 2016 and trains alongside a group of 25-30 arm-wrestlers every Wednesday night, under the guidance of NSW Arm-Wrestling Director Oz Caglar.

His next objective is to win the right-handed heavyweight division at the NSW Championships on 23rd July, which is being held at Bankstown RSL. Vision of Mario’s most recent competition can be

found at: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=5dt5pFqEbXc “I hope he (Mario) gets some recognition for the successes he has brought to the sport (of ArmWrestling) in Australia and our local area,” said Mr Caglar.

“He (Mario) is only 25 and is bound to be a internationally-recognised elite athlete in the sport of arm-wrestling.”

The NSW Arm-wrestling Championships are on 23rd July, from 11am – 7pm and is open to Right & Left Arms.

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It is a Double-elimination competition, featuring Men’s Under 80kg, 80-95kg and Over 95kg.

Weigh-in and registration is from 11:00am, General Admission is free, competitors $30 per arm or $50 for both, fantastic trophies and prizes for all competitors.

More details on the NSW Championships can be found at www.armwrestlingaustralia.com/ event/2022-nsw-armwrestling-titles/ or the Facebook page www.facebook. com/events/1396088947556744/

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Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

Title chase is a real arm-wrestle

43

Celebrity ROUND 17

ROUND 18

CRO NEW WES MEL SOU PAR

BRI STG

NQC CRO

PAR NZW

SYD STG

MAN NEW

GCT BRI

WES PAN

MEL CAN

BUL SOU

July 7 7.50pm

July 10 4.05pm

July 15 6.00pm

July 15 7.55pm

July 16 3.00pm

July 16 5.30pm

July 16 7.35pm

July 17 2.00pm

July 17 4.05pm

July 17 6.15pm

July 8 7.55pm

July 9 7.35pm

SCORE

Jeff Daniel Watson Galea--Club Adenbrook President, Homes St Marys - 9622 Band 4091 Club - 9623 1211

168 Natalie Ballard - Novus Law Group - 0404 474 084

174 John Kibbey - Raine & Horne Commercial - 0417 228 538

176 Vic Shipley - Powersmart Electrical - 0415 982 093

180 Brett McVea - National Locksmiths - 0404 842 170

170 Bec Passlow - Pioneer Tavern - 4736 4647

152 Derry - O’Donovans Pty Ltd - 4736 1400

170 Toby Hughes - Sinclair Hyundai - 4720 1111

162 Ross Franklyn-Smith - Club President, St Marys Diggers & Band Club - 9623 1211

166 Greg YandaBenard - Sports Journalist, Nepean News Councillor Bratusa

164

TIPSTERS ROUND 17

ROUND 18

CRO NEW WES MEL SOU PAR

BRI STG

NQC CRO

PAR NZW

SYD STG

MAN NEW

GCT BRI

WES PAN

MEL CAN

BUL SOU

July 7 7.50pm

July 10 4.05pm

July 15 6.00pm

July 15 7.55pm

July 16 3.00pm

July 16 5.30pm

July 16 7.35pm

July 17 2.00pm

July 17 4.05pm

July 17 6.15pm

July 8 7.55pm

July 9 7.35pm

SCORE

Mark Geyer - Nepean News Columnist and Owner of MG Activ

170 Prue Car - Member for Londonderry - 9833 1122

Authorised by Prue Car MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

178 Jim Hill - Nepean Solar - 0425 281 626

164 Alex McKenzie - Future Financial Services - 0414 330 651

170 Aaron Tyers - @print - 4731 5055

164 Will Wise - East West Building & Kitchens - 9673 2621

162 Brock Shepperd - Mounties Rugby League Club - Ron Massey Cup Head Coach, Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

176 Andrew Keen - Penrith Air Supply - 4731 3033

172 John Veitch - Parramatta Motor Group - 9912 2000

166 Terry ‘Mad Dog’ Corbett - St Clair Comets

166

Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

46

SPORT

PENRITH PANTHERS

Coach’s Corner T

State of Origin III Preview

he Blues may have ambushed the Maroons 44-12 in game two of the State of Origin series in Perth, but when you scratch the surface on what lies ahead for them as they head to Suncorp Stadium for a game three decider, the enormity of the task becomes very clear.

NSW has not won a State of Origin decider in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium since 2005. In the time since that famous victory the Blues have contested five series decider at the cauldron and have lost all five games. The combined score of these matches reads QLD 149 to NSW 70, an average score of QLD 30 over NSW 14. Origin is famous for the close battles and the fierce rivalry. State of Origin deciders at Suncorp Stadium have been anything but close battles. So why will things be different in 2022? After all we lost the unlosable series in 2020 after thumping the Maroons in game two 34-10.

The Blues head into game three with minimal disruption or change to the team which was so dominant in Perth. With only Payne Haas moving out of the team due to injury and Jordan McLean replacing him in the front row. The Maroons coach Billy Slater has made only one forced change also

with Tom Gilbert replacing Felise Kaufusi who is unavailable with a family issue keeping him in the United States.

The Maroons competed extremely hard in the opening three halves of the series. But were run all over in the second half of game two, was this a sign the Blues are becoming more cohesive and that they are a better team than the Maroons? Or is this a half of football in which possession and field position took its toll, along with a period where the Maroons had to play with 12 men. NSW took full advantage and scored some very easy tries and embarrassed the QLD team.

There was a lot made of the Maroons tactics in game one of the series in Sydney, they will need to revisit this approach and win the middle of the field and the ruck to control the speed of the game. With a fast ruck and a high tempo, the NSW team has far too much skill and speed for QLD to handle and if the game is played in that high pace and up-tempo style the Blues will be too strong.

What influence will the crowd have on the style of game the referee enforces? You can expect to see most of the close calls favouring the home side,

Brock Shepperd Mounties Rugby League Club - NSW Cup Head Coach Chifley College Senior Campus - Rugby League Program Head Coach

as will the leniency in disciplinary areas such as holding down at the play the ball. This will stifle the Blues cohesion, it is not a clear path to victory, but it will disrupt the NSW attack and force them to play into a set defensive line. The NSW team want to create a broken and scattered defensive line which will make scoring points a much easier task.

Field position will be vital for both teams and NSW certainly have the better general play kickers and middle forwards. The Blues will need to ensure they are patient in the middle of the field and that they kick well into the corners and consistently give Queensland a long field to play from for the duration of the match, this approach will hopefully nullify the influence of Cameron Munster and Kaylen Ponga who will want good ball field position and broken and open play to exploit the Blues defence.

I predict a Blues victory, but in a much closer affair than what we saw in Perth. Nathan Cleary and James Tedesco to lead the NSW team to a series win at Suncorp Stadium for the first time since 2005.

James Tedesco to be named Wally Lewis Medalist for the series. Blues to win 26-12.

Proudly sponsored by Penrith Party Hire (02) 4731 1313

Origin decider to feature seven Panthers Seven Panthers have been named in the NSW Blues squad for the State of Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday 13 July.

By Panthers Media

A

fter a man-of-the-match performance in Game Two, Nathan Cleary will direct the side from halfback, alongside club halves partner Jarome Luai.

Panthers outside backs Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton have also been named in the starting side, along with hooker Api Koroisau and forwards Liam Martin and Isaah Yeo. Fittler has largely retained the same starting side which beat Queensland 44-12 in Game Two at Optus Stadium in Perth to level the series at 1-all.

Jordan McLean, who was part of the extended NSW squad for Game Two, replaces Payne Haas who has been ruled out through injury.

Canberra Raiders five-eighth Jack Wighton, who played in Game One in Sydney but missed Game Two with COVID-19, has been named as 18th man.

NSW BLUES 1. James Tedesco (c) (Sydney Roosters) 2. Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers) 3. Matt Burton (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

4. Stephen Crichton (Penrith Panthers) 5. Daniel Tupou (Sydney Roosters) 6. Jarome Luai (Penrith Panthers) 7. Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers) 8. Jordan McLean (North Queensland Cowboys) 9. Apisai Koroisau (Penrith Panthers) 10. Jake Trbojevic (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles) 11. Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 12. Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers)

13. Isaah Yeo (Penrith Panthers) 14. Damien Cook (South Sydney Rabbitohs) 15. Angus Crichton (Sydney Roosters) 16. Junior Paulo (Parramatta Eels) 17. Siosifa Talakai (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks) 18. Jack Wighton (Canberra Raiders) 19. Nicho Hynes (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks) 20. Clint Gutherson (Parramatta Eels) 21. Jacob Saifiti (Newcastle Knights) 22. Reece Robson (North Queensland Cowboys)

PENRITH PANTHERS

mark with MARK GEYER

Go the Blues! ignore the stat-chat N SW hasn’t won an origin series decider in QLD since 2005! Every team in origin that has scored more than 40 points in a game has gone on to win the series! Who doesn’t love a stat in the great game of rugby league?

In particular, state of origin statistics always seem importantly profound but really, they mean nothing. They are just a fantastic way to absorb and examine this upcoming origin decider in QLD next Wednesday night.

For the record game 1 went to the Canetoads 16-10, game 2 to the Cockroaches 44-12! Game 3 promises to be one of the best in recent memory.

Both sides remain relatively unaffected by game 2 with only Jordan McLean for NSW and Tom Gilbert for QLD (both from the Cowboys) making their debuts at Suncorp. There are so many tangibles heading into this game but one of the biggest talking points post-game will be who should be picked in the starting team for Australian in the upcoming World Cup. I’ll look into my crystal ball and give coach Mal Meninga a hand in naming the starting 17 for Australia.

Before I do my predictions for next Wednesday are..

NSW to win 22-14 Cam Murray - man of the match Selwyn Cobbo - first try scorer My predicted Australian Rugby league team: 1. James Tedesco (c) 2. Valentine Holmes 3. Matt Burton 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Daniel Topou 6. Cameron Munster 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Payne Haas

9. Harry Grant 10. Josh Papalii 11. Cameron Murray 12. Felise Kaufusi 13. Isaah Yeo 14. DCE 15. Liam Martin 16. Junior Paulo 17. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui * Brian To’o wasn’t considered after pledging his allegiance to Samoa in the World Cup. See you at the game! MG Random Westie

MG (random Westie) OAM

www.panthers.com.au

47 Nepean News 8 July 2022 Issue 333

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