Nepean News 9 December 2022

Half a century of service

This year, two Mulgoa electorate locals are being celebrated for over 50 years of service as Justices of the Peace.

Justices of the Peace (JP’s) are volunteers appointed by the Governor of New south Wales and they provide an invaluable service to their local community.

JP’s witness important documents, certify copies of original documents such as a birth certificate or driver’s licence, and come from all sections of the community to help others.

Today, Ted Tokarcsyk and Malcolm Chapple have been recognised for their more than half a century of service to their local community, providing support for those in need.

Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies, said that JP’s are a vital part of any community and is especially thankful for both Ted and Malcolm’s service over a significant period of time.

“i want to thank both Ted and Malcolm for their incredible service to the community. This milestone is a terrific achievement, and I am so very pleased to have the opportunity to recognise Ted and Malcolm for their support and service to the local community,” Mrs Davies said.

“There are a variety of obligations that JP’s must adhere to by law, and functions that they must carry out, so it’s not a particularly easy role but a necessary and vital role. i want to express my deep gratitude to all JP’s across NsW and

To learn more about becoming a JP and the roles of JP’s you can visit www.jp.nsw.gov.au/ (Image note: Malcolm Chapple was absent due to contracting COVID-19)

especially Ted and Malcolm for their incredible tenure of service.”

By Noel Rowsell

Tanya Davies MP and Ted Tikarczyk JP - Tanya congratulating Ted on 50 year service as a JP.

Kerrie Davies 0422 067 644

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Here we are just two weeks shy of Christmas eve, and as everyone says at this time year after year, can you believe it!?

We’ve been delivered an early present this year too, in the form of another interest rate rise!

Ho Ho Ho. Happy Days and Merry Christmas.

There’s a lot of unhappy campers out there; the home-owners, the homehunters and even the home-renters can smell this isn’t going to mean good news for them either.

Unhappiness usually results in finger pointing, and on social media the one who is copping more dents to the forehead than the reserve Bank is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Some say he has not addressed the cost of living from day one as he promised pre-election. Some are pointing back to the campaign and Mr Albanese’s failure to correctly note key economic statistics and others are saying that interest rates always rise under Labor governments.

Its not all doom and gloom for Albo though, for all the knockers out there, there are plenty willing to defend him. Some say the ink still isn’t dry where he signed up as PM, the goal-keepers are busy deflecting the finger-pointing into alternative blame nets and others are saying “it is not his job.” Hmm, sounds familiar! Where have I heard that expression before?

regardless of which side of the debate you’re on, if you have a variable mortgage you’re going to find you’ve got less spare change than you had this time last year. And if you’re in that barrel full of fixed-term borrowers, enjoy the limited time you have left because pretty soon the carnival will be over.

It’s another blow, that’s for sure; but if the last 3 years hasn’t taught us resilience, there’s really nothing that will.

I’m off to do my Christmas shopping. I can already hear the my credit card screaming No! Leave me at home! Put me back into lockdown!

AmAjor upgrade of mulgoa road is motoring ahead with the contract awarded to Seymour Whyte Constructions and Turnbull Engineering.

minister for metropolitan roads Natalie Ward said the milestone would allow work to begin between jeanette Street and Blaikie road at jamisontown.

“mulgoa road is already one of Western Sydney’s key arterial routes with 52,000 car movements every day, which is why we’re making these important upgrades to ensure it keeps pace with the region’s growth,” mrs Ward said.

“This is yet another example of the Perrottet Government delivering on its vision for a brighter future for people right across NSW and building the world-class infrastructure they deserve.”

member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said the upgrade would support the future economic growth of the region through an improved connection to the m4 motorway and increased productivity.

“mulgoa road will be widened from two to three lanes in either direction which will ease congestion along with upgraded intersections, including at the m4 motorway,” mr Ayres said.

“I’m excited to see early works begin with the appointment of a contractor, ahead of major work next year.”

member for mulgoa Tanya Davies said the entire community would benefit from the project.

“In addition the upgrade will include bus priority works around intersections, new landscaping, upgraded paths and a noise barrier,” ms Davies said.

“Three sections of mulgoa road are also progressing to a final design; around 850 metres between Glenmore Parkway and jeanette Street, about 1.2 kilometres between Blaikie road and jamison road and a further kilometre between jamison and Union roads.”

The mulgoa road upgrade is jointly funded by the NSW and Federal Governments and is part of a wider plan to improve important connectivity across the Penrith area.

This project complements work the NSW Government has undertaken around the jane Street intersection and the upgrades completed along The Northern road.

For more information about the upgrade, go to https://nswroads.work/mulgoardjamisontown

Call from penrith optometrists

oPTomETrISTS are asking the people of Penrith to donate their pre-loved glasses to help communities in need, after new research has found that on average, 75% of Australian households have at least one pair of optical glasses or sunglasses lying around at home that they no longer use. This equates to a whopping 36 million pairs of unused optical glasses or sunglasses across the country that could be used by those in need.

As we head into the Christmas period, it’s the perfect time to help Specsavers Penrith reach their goal of collecting 200,00 pairs of glasses. To put that into perspective, if the glasses were placed end to end, they

could stretch from Penrith to Parramatta.

Local Penrith Specsavers retail partner, Katie Daly says that this time of year is a fantastic time to think about donating glasses.

“We see a huge influx of people wanting to use their health insurance benefits to purchase a new pair of glasses. We’d love to see more people donating their old specs in store so they can benefit people in need.”

In partnership with Lions recycle for Sight, Specsavers is now into their fourth year of the recycling program, which sees quality glasses and sunglasses being delivered to people in need overseas. In 2018, Lions Recycle for Sight sent 334,860

pairs of refurbished spectacles to 20 destinations overseas.

All pre-loved glasses that are sent to Lions recycle for Sight from Specsavers are quality tested, cleaned, categorised and boxed according to prescription. The best of the glasses collected are provided to charity, while the rest of the glasses are recycled. over the past four years, Specsavers Australia have donated over 700,000 pairs in partnership with Lions recycle for Sight.

To head in store to donate any of your own pre-loved glasses, visit Specsavers Penrith at Westfield Penrith S/C, 585 High St, Penrith, or visit www.specsavers.com.au/stores for more information.

Celebrating 40 years of friendship and service at Mount Druitt Hospital’s anniversary dinner

THe party continued for Mount Druitt Hospital’s milestone 40th birthday with a formal dinner celebration held at West HQ on Wednesday, 30 November.

With MC Daniel Doody from Channel 10 adding some star-power to the event, guests enjoyed a night of powerful speeches, dancing and even a game or two, as colleagues and volunteers from the past four decades shared fond memories of the hospital’s history.

“It’s a really exciting night. To see staff, volunteers – and even past staff and volunteers – come back to celebrate the event is a really great demonstration of the connection between Mount Druitt Hospital and the local community,” Acting General Manager

Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospitals, Brad Ceely said.

Community was a strong theme of the evening, with speeches from volunteers, former surgeons, Auxiliary President Jean Hitches, Deputy Director of Nursing Kirsty Wallis, and WSlHD Chief executive Graeme loy.

A highlight of the evening was Studio 10’s Daniel Doody’s crowd work as he interviewed members of each table to hear about their individual memories of the hospital and reminisce about everything from the first Nepean Therapy Dog to walk the halls, to the many vibrant personalities who brightened up work days.

There was even a video message from Triple M host and Penrith Panthers legend Mark ‘MG’

Geyer speaking about how the lovely Mount Druitt Hospital staff patched up him and his siblings many times over the years. Many guests spoke passionately about their own experiences and reiterated that if it wasn’t for Mount Druitt Hospital, they may not have been still with us today.

Guests were also treated to musical performances from rooty Hill High School students, who performed Don’t dream it’s over by Crowded House, Isn’t she lovely by Stevie Wonder, Just the two of us by Bill Withers and Best Part by Daniel Caesar.

After the evening’s formalities were concluded, the DJ started playing some traditional dance tunes and many guests took to the dance floor with everything from the Nutbush to ballroom dancing on display.

Real Christmas tree drop-off day

AreAl Christmas tree drop-off day will be held on Saturday 7 January 2023 at Jamison Park from 10am until 2pm where real Christmas trees can be dropped off. These will be collected and sent to the right place to be mulched. residents are requested to remove all decorations from their trees prior to attending the drop-off.

Please note: Artificial trees and decorations will not be accepted at the dropoff. These can be stored for next year or donated if they are in good condition. Artificial trees that are unable to be reused can be collected as a part of a bulky waste collection.

Directions on the day

Please enter Jamison Park via Jamison road as highlighted on the map on our website. Upon entry follow the signs to the recycling drop-off point. Please exit via York road.

For more information on our Christmas waste and recycling services, visit penrith.city/christmaswaste

Date, Time & Location

Starts: 07 January 2023 - 10am - 2pm, Jamison Park

Additional fee-free training places to grow the skilled workforce

STUArT AYreS MP, Member for Penrith welcomes the announcement that more feefree training will be available in priority industries thanks to a landmark 12-month agreement signed by the Australian and NSW Governments.

Stuart Ayres said the $319 million agreement will deliver a significant boost to the NSW skills and training sector.

“This funding will deliver 120,000 fee-free training places across NSW, and will help local people get the skills they need for the jobs they want,” Stuart Ayres said.

“It will target priority industries and provide more opportunities for people in our community to get a first job, a new job or a better job.”

This will provide immediate support through

approximately 120,000 fee-free training places in 2023.

The course list will see approximately 40,200 feefree places in the care sector (including approximately 10,000 in the early Childhood education and Care sector), 9,900 in technology and digital, 6,900 in agriculture, 5,200 in construction, 5,000 in hospitality and tourism, 1,200 in sovereign capability, and 51,400 in other priority sectors including foundation skills.

The Agreement will increase opportunities and workforce participation of priority groups, including First Nations Australians, young people (17-24), people out of work or receiving income support, unpaid carers, women undertaking study in nontraditional fields, people with disability and certain categories of visa holders.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the additional $164 million from the Australian Government builds on the NSW Government’s record $3.1 billion in the skills and training sector this financial year.

NSW is leading the nation when it comes to skills and training and this additional investment from the Australian Government recognises our State as the economic powerhouse of the nation.

This additional investment in fee-free training places will target priority industries and help address skills and labour shortages that are hampering businesses across NSW.

For more information about courses available, visit www.tafensw.edu.au/ or https://education. nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw.

Safer skating for Team Skatel

Stuart ayreS MP, Member for Penrith visited Penrith Skatel at emu Plains to announce a grant of $7,699.00 through the NSW Government’s 2022 Community Building Partnership Program.

Stuart ayres said this grant to the team Skatel artistic roller Skating Club will be used to purchase a new rink floor scrubbing machine.

“this is fantastic news for the club’s 200 plus registered skaters and visiting skaters.”

“The rink is due to have the floor resurfaced soon so this machine will keep it in top top condition.”

esther ambrus of team Skatel said our members and participants who utilise our home rink Penrith Skatel not only come from the greater Penrith area but also as far away as Newcastle, the Southern Highlands, Lithgow and Sydney.

“this grant will allow us to maintain a clean and safe floor to skate on and all participants will have the opportunity to further enjoy recreational roller skating and roller sports.”

Stuart ayres added “With very few dedicated roller skating rinks around, I was pleased to recommend this project for funding.”

the Community Building Partnership program has funded more than 18,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

applications for the 2023 Program open in May 2023.

For more information about the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/cbp (www.nsw.gov.au/cbp).

The G SpoT

aHH, the wonderful time of Christmas, cheers and beers and maybe family tears as they say. I was listening to the good old Chrissy songs the other night, and realised the same old crap comes on year after year. Same songs, same regurgitated lyrics, same singers, maybe a couple of rappers here and there to spice it up a little.

there are only so many ways Michael Buble can sing Chrissy songs, But 2022 here we are (again), the Michael Buble Christmas Special is out. Great, I think to myself, I will add that to the 458 other albums I have of Michael Buble singing Christmas songs.

then of course we need to listen to “all I want for Christmas is you,” by Mariah Carey, is it just me or am I being ungrateful? Because when she sings those words an evil voice in my head says, “screw that MC, give me Dior or Chanel any day biatches.”

I love Christmas, it the only time when you hear people say, “please don’t invite aunt Myrtle and if you do, sit her near uncle Bob, she needs to be closest to the toilets.” It is amazing how at Christmas you categorise the family members in accordance to likeability. People you can just put up with, the one year only invitationers, the must haves, the hates, and the ones that you invite or someone will get upset, such as an ex or father or mother of someone, the separated and the list goes on.

We then dissect according to body features and smell such as second cousin Dean, who has flatulence and needs to clear the air (and the room). then last there’s John who won’t eat anything put in front of him and George who’ll try to steal everyone else’s portion. the extremely loud-when-drunk Kevin goes there at the end seat and last but not least in the high chair for the screaming brat who vomits every 10 seconds, that the neighbour brings over. Table set and job is done; let the fights begin.

So anyway, off track I go a little but John Lennon’s (JL), war is over, a very merry Christmas (sing the words in your head), song just came on, and it reminded me of last year when I decided I’d answer each lyric line considering the year we’d had.

JL: So this is Christmas and what have you done ….?

Me: Nothing John it’s called lockdown ya bonehead, Don’t you read the papers, We were stuck in prison for three months

JL: Another year over and a new year one just began,

Me: Close but not yet get ya facts right, and while I am at it, can I have a refund on 2021 I think I was dudded half a year.

JL: And so this is Christmas, Me: Yeah you said that five seconds ago, do ya

have to repeat ya self, you sound like my husband now.

JL: I hope you had fun, Me: do you see a smile on my face John?

JL: A very Merry Christmas Me: Keep saying that John and I will round kick ya

JL: And a Happy New Year

Me: Okay John you are repeating yourself, I am hitting the off-button dude, JL: War is over

Me: you obviously have not been at our family gatherings on Christmas then, JL

Me: Okay John, delete, I am heading over to Blink 182

So, I guess you are wondering what this all has to do with Security? yeah me too, but talking back to John Lennon was fun.

Just a friendly reminder kids, please secure your houses, side gates, turn on your alarms and have security cameras on your home over Chrissy and New year, there are some bad people that like your stuff more than you do and don’t feel the need to be able to have to pay for it.

Stay Safe, wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and hope you have lots a love, laughs and gatherings over the time.

XXXX

With Gina Field, Nepean Regional Security

New english and maths curriculum adds up to greater learning outcomes

New syllabuses released this week require a renewed focus on core skills in english and mathematics to boost learning outcomes for all students.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the changes for years 3 to 10 are significant milestones in NSW’s once-in-a-generation Curriculum Reform.

“It is vital that NSW students are developing strong skills in both literacy and numeracy so they can succeed in school and beyond,” Mr Perrottet said.

“If our NAPLAN results have shown us anything, it’s that we need to focus on the explicit teaching of grammar, sentence structure and punctuation in high school, along with better preparation for mandatory HSC maths.

“Focusing on those foundational skills is key to success and there’s no better place to start that journey than at the beginning of a child’s education –in primary school.”

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the new English syllabus for primary and high school builds on the reformed Kindergarten to Year 2 syllabus, released earlier this year.

“Our focus on phonics in those early years is a game-changer that is already delivering results,” Ms Mitchell said.

“The year 3 to 6 english syllabus will build on the success we are seeing in the early years with an increased emphasis on grammar, which is key to writing well.

“It also requires teachers to ensure students in years 3 and 4 can read fluently and decipher new words quickly. For students in years 7 to 10, they will

be taught ways to interpret unfamiliar words and use grammar to express complex ideas.”

For the Maths syllabus, key changes include ensuring students develop stronger foundations in sequencing and reasoning.

“In primary school, students will now develop a deeper understanding of maths and will have the depth to master important skills before moving on to another concept,” Ms Mitchell said.

“In other words, students will need to not only know Pythagoras’ Theorem; they will need to be able

to explain how it works in practice and why.”

In Years 7 to 10, a new flexible Core-Paths structure will better prepare students for Year 11 and 12 maths courses and mandatory HSC maths.

The NSW Education Standards Authority, who are responsible for delivering NSW Curriculum Reforms, will provide schools with support materials as they implement the new syllabuses.

The new syllabuses will be available for teachers to plan and prepare during 2023 and will be taught in all NSW schools from 2024.

‘Foster’ the police puppy meets the family of his namesake

The family of the late Senior Constable Kelly Foster has met the police pup named in her honour, ahead of a blessing ceremony.

As part of a longstanding canine recruit tradition, a puppy recently bred though the NSW Police Force’s Dog Unit Breeding Program has been named ‘Foster’ in honour of Senior Constable Kelly Foster, who died following a canyoning incident while off-duty at Mount Wilson on Saturday 2 January 2021.

Kelly bravely went to the aid of a fellow canyoner, who had been swept into a whirlpool in Wollangambe Canyon, and despite her gallant

efforts, both she and the 24-year-old woman lost their lives.

Foster, a German Shepherd, was born on Sunday 25 September 2022, the only male pup of the litter.

He will remain at the Dog Unit until he is aged 12 weeks, before being placed into the foster carer program until he is old enough to begin training as a General Purpose dog.

Now that he was old enough to have visitors, Foster met the family of his namesake at the Dog Unit on Monday 28 November, before a blessing was conducted by a Senior Police Chaplain.

Hosted by the Dog and Mounted Unit

Commander, Superintendent Julian Griffiths, and Dog Unit Patron, Marc Webb, the Foster family also toured the facility and viewed a demonstration of the skills Foster will learn as part of his future training to become a police dog.

The NSW Police Force Dog Unit was formed in 1932 and currently forms part of the NSW Police Force Police Transport and Public Safety Command.

It is the largest police dog unit in Australia and its canine police officers include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherds, Labradors, Border Collies and English Springer Spaniels.

Tender Now Open – headspace Hawkesbury

weNTwoRTh Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary health Network, have released the tender to commission a suitable lead agency to establish and operate the new headspace centre in the hawkesbury.

The full-service headspace was due to open by December 2023 and wentworth healthcare is seeking a service provider that can deliver high quality, effective and timely youth friendly services to the hawkesbury community, in line with the headspace centre service model.

The centre will support early intervention, detection and treatment for young people aged 12-25 at risk of or experiencing issues with mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and/or other drugs, as

well assistance with vocational and educational services.

It is estimated that of those aged 5-17 years in the Hawkesbury, over a quarter have mental health needs or were affected by a mental health disorder. wentworth healthcare Ceo, Lizz Reay, said the service would be vital in supporting young people and their families, particularly as many navigate life after multiple natural disasters and the pandemic.

“hawkesbury youth have been through so much, from drought to bushfires, a pandemic and multiple floods. These events have had a profound impact on our youth, and we know that headspace services play an important role in supporting young people and their mental health. We have been advocating for additional

youth mental health services in our region for some time and are excited that we can now take the next step in meeting the needs of the hawkesbury community,” said Ms Reay.

“Intervention programs such as headspace are critical as they not only impact young people’s lives in the present but can influence the whole community as these young people mature into adulthood,” she said.

Federal member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said “headspace is a long-overdue but vital service for young people and their families in the hawkesbury. A full-service headspace should provide a very tailored, holistic approach to mental good health for our youth. It can help tackle problems as they emerge and be the sort of place a young person is

happy to visit.”

“A service like this could have been life-changing for my family when my kids were teenagers, and I look forward to the doors being open as soon as possible,” she said.

Service providers interested in responding to the tender are encouraged to attend an online information session with wentworth Healthcare and headspace National on Tuesday 13 December, at 10:00am - 11:00am. The session will provide organisations with an overview of the tender process and an opportunity to ask questions. Register via www.nbmphn.com.au/events

Tender applications close 5:00pm Monday 30 January 2023. For more information or to apply visit www.nbmphn.com.au/tenders

Vouchers now available for vacation care

Parents of school-aged children including those starting Kindergarten in 2023, now have more opportunity to claim a $500 voucher for Before and after school Care (BasC), just in time to help with the cost of vacation care over the summer holidays. the nsW Government’s $155 million BasC Voucher Program helps families with household budget pressures, and more than 263,000 vouchers worth $500 have already been claimed by parents. Of these, more than 197,000 have been redeemed at a BasC service to help families with the cost of care.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the BasC vouchers are a huge success, supporting nsW families to juggle work and family responsibilities.

“We know the Before and after school Care vouchers help to ease hip pocket pressure and give parents and carers the flexibility they need around work commitments.

“I encourage parents who haven’t already to download and redeem a BasC voucher before the summer holidays are over to help cover the cost of vacation care.”

Minister for education and early Learning sarah Mitchell said parents should download and redeem the $500 vouchers available to them.

“every family with a child going into Kindergarten in 2023 can now download their voucher until 31 January 2023 if they have not yet done so.

“these vouchers support students in getting

quality before and after school care, but also allows parents to have more money back in their household budgets.”

the Before and after school Voucher Program is delivered in partnership with service nsW.

Minister for Customer service and Digital Government, Victor Dominello said BasC vouchers will be available to download from 5 December 2022 until 31 January 2023 by parents and carers. they must be redeemed by 31 January but can be used for services up to 30 June 2023.

“this is another win for families, I encourage parents and carers who have not yet taken advantage

of the program to jump on the service nsW app or website and claim their voucher,” Mr Dominello said.

“Customers can also use an easy-to-navigate tool on the service nsW website to locate a participating BasC provider near them to make the process of redeeming their vouchers as simple as possible.”

Customers can register and apply online via a Myservice nsW account, in the app, or by visiting their nearest service Centre.

To apply or find out more information about BasC vouchers, visit: www.service.nsw.gov.au/ basc-voucher

Parklea inmates create safe house for DV campaign

INMATeS at Parklea Correctional Centre have nailed it again, putting their trade skills into action by creating a wooden safe house to help raise awareness and promote discussion about domestic violence.

The concept, developed in partnership with Blacktown City Council as part of its annual Knit Bomb Project, uses visually vibrant statements to say “no” to family and domestic violence.

Last year the council asked for a tea pot and two cups and saucers to be created to symbolise having a cuppa to start a conversation. This year they requested a small home made from timber to represent a safe house.

Correctional officers supervised three inmates who work in the prison’s cabinet shop to construct the house, which measures 1.5 metres by 1.2 metres and has a 600mm pitched roof and chimney.

The impressive house was then “knit bombed” by the talented members of the Blacktown Library Knitting Group, overseen by Blacktown City Council’s Women’s Advisory Committee, who had knitted or crocheted squares in various colours and sizes and sewn them together.

It will be on display at the Village Green until mid-December, next to Blacktown City Council Chambers. Other items, such as trees, light poles, posts, and benches around the area, have also been “knit bombed” to mark 16 days of activism against violence in November.

Governor Paul Baker said staff and

inmates were pleased the council had again invited them to be involved in this important community partnership and social awareness campaign.

“We have been involved in a number of Blacktown City Council initiatives and we recently donated wooden toys our inmates made to a council childcare centre in Blackett,” Mr Baker said.

“Our giant tea pot and teacups received fantastic feedback last year and provided an eye-catching conversation starter, while providing meaningful work for the inmates and assisting in their rehabilitation.

“This initiative provided another great opportunity to work with Blacktown City Council and for our inmates to give back to the community, while raising awareness

of domestic violence in its many forms.

“Our officers who train the inmates in the cabinet shop have come up with a professional design to create a welcoming home, reminiscent of a cubby house where children play and make happy memories.

“The inmates have done a fantastic job building it and they should all feel very proud.

“We look forward to being involved in other community projects where we have the capacity and capability.”

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM, said Council was proud to partner with Parklea Correctional Centre to make a colourful public statement against domestic and family violence.

“Sadly in Blacktown City, women

“Starting a conversation around this serious issue is an important first step in putting an end to this violence, and the Knit Bomb Project is part of Council’s commitment in raising awareness of this scourge on our community.

“We were delighted to have the support of Parklea inmates again in this year’s Knit Bomb Project, and I am continually overwhelmed by the hard work and talent that goes into creating the pieces for display each year.”

Parklea Correctional Centre is operated by MTC Australia on behalf of Corrective Services NSW.

Passing of former Blacktown Mayor George Nicolaidis

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Mayor of Blacktown City, George Nicolaidis OAM.” is stated on Blacktown Council’s facebook page.

“George was elected 9 terms to represent Ward 4 on Blacktown Council between the years of 1965 and 2004, serving as mayor from 1974-1976.

“Beyond his great service to our City as a councillor, George’s contributions to the City of Blacktown were immense. He was a tireless advocate for the need for better infrastructure to support the growing population in the City; a battle that Council continues to fight to this day.

“He was a member of the Mount Druitt Historical Society since 1975, and represented the Society on the Council Historical Committee. He undertook his own extensive historical research on the development of Blacktown, spending countless hours in the archives at Mitchell Library and here at Council. George came to write numerous historical books and articles about Rooty Hill, Mount Druitt, and the Blacktown area, including a history of Blacktown City Council.

“George was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2013 for the wide ranging contributions he made to his community. And he was awarded the key to the City earlier this year.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his only son, Theodore, and wife Zhi Ping.”

The funeral will be held Tuesday, 13 December at Pinegrove – West Chapel, commencing at 12.30 pm.

and children continue to suffer at the hands of family members or current or former partners,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

Michael Pugsley with Melissa Boceski

Penola

“Penola Catholic College would like to acknowledge this project received funding from the australian Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program and was put forward by our local MP, Melissa McIntosh,” said Principal Fanning. at the completion of the welcome, Mrs McIntosh planted the first of three trees, assisted by Primary Industry student representatives ella Dunlop,

Darcy Hopton and Marshall Pereira .

Principal Fanning and assistant Principal Mrs Sparkes planted the 2nd and 3rd trees, assisted by Primary Industry student representatives Montana la Rosa, alyssa Merriman and Flynn Bradley Murray.

“Thank you to our College captains Brooke Morgan, Zac Stevens and our Primary Industries representatives Montana la Rosa, ella Dunlop, Darcy

Hopton, Marshall Pereira and Flynn Bradley Murray for helping us in today’s proceedings,” said Principal Fanning.

“Thank you for joining us on this special morning where we recognise and plant in honour of the Queen, elizabeth II.”

By Noel Rowsell

Commemorating the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth 11 at Penola Catholic College

Catholic College Principal Mr Jim Fanning welcomed local Federal MP Melissa McIntosh, media, staff and students to the school’s Tree Planting Ceremony on Tuesday 6th December, to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen elizabeth 11.

Tree Planting Ceremony to Commemorate The Queen’s Jubilee.

From Left to Right - Ella Dunlop, Melissa McIntosh, Montana La Rosa (behind Melissa), Alyssa Merriman, Darcy Hopton, Marshall Pereira, Mr Jim Fanning (College Principal), Flynn Bradley Murray, Mrs Peta Sparkes (College Assistant Principal).

Trees of Hope: Panthers is

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

ExtEnding its generous helping hand once again, Panthers Penrith is running the much-loved trees of Hope initiative in the foyer this month. Each year, Panthers Penrith invites some amazing local charities to decorate a tree each in the foyer. the aim of the event is to give the charities the opportunity to raise awareness of the incredible work that they do for our community. Penrith has an amazing and diverse community and trees of Hope is a great chance for charities to gain exposure to members during the Christmas season.

Members, the community, staff and the Panthers directors vote for their favourite tree up until the 20th december 2021.

How it works

QR codes are located under each tree, allowing everyone to vote for their favourite tree.

Major Prizes

Members Favourite tree – $4,000 directors Favourite tree – $3,000 Staff Favourite tree – $2,000

Trees of Hope Participants

As stated above, Panthers have invited nine dedicated and diverse charities to participate in trees of Hope.

“We have tried to invite people from all aspects of our community and we hope that our members and the Penrith community will assist in getting behind these wonderful causes,” a club Spokesperson said.

Tree 2 –Panthers on the Prowl

tHE Panthers on the Prowl Community development Foundation continues to gather momentum in its aim to give something vitally important back to families and young people within Penrith and surrounding areas.

the goal of Panthers on the Prowl is to make a difference to the well-being of young people in the communities in which we live. … the Prowl’s primary schools program, which has been active since 2002, has had a significant impact on hundreds of young people and their families

donate here: https://panthersontheprowl.com.au/ donate/

Tree 3 – NORO

noRo delivers vital life-transforming supports to over 1750 people each week through their evidence based clinical music therapy and community music programs.

Leveraging the power of music, noro assists people with a range of challenges including disabilities, developmental delays, behaviours, mental health, neurological impairments and dementia.

Tree 1 –

Penrith Community Kitchen

PEnRitH Community Kitchen’s mission is to provide a warm, comfortable, friendly, relaxed environment where those that are in need can enjoy a free nourishing meal and the lonely can enjoy the company of others.

donate here: www.penrithcommunitykitchen.com.au/ donation-information

noro work with a diverse range of people – their youngest participant is 3 months old and their oldest 107.

noro deliver services from their own clinics – Penrith (Panthers), glenbrook and Annangrove and a range of “outreach” situations including early childhood, schools, community groups, disability day programs, hospitals and aged care facilities.

noro are an ndiS registered provider, but receive funding from a range of other sources, including fundraising which plays a vital role in developing programs and expanding their reach to assist those least advantaged.

noro are grateful for the support of Panthers and the Penrith community.

donate here: www.noro.org.au/donate/

Photo: Stephen Brookes

giving away $9,000 to charity!

Tree 4 – Regentville Rural Fire Service

The Regentville Rural Fire Brigade is located 2km south of the Penrith CBD in Western Sydney, at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. An integral part of the Penrith community, this emergency service has 70 volunteer members and attend approximately 300 incidents year, which is a significant amount for a volunteer service.

Donate here: www.noro.org.au/donate/

Tree Tree 5 –Nepean Therapy Dogs Incorporated

NePeAN Therapy Dogs Inc. is a registered charity providing trained therapy dog teams to members of the community in schools, hospitals, aged-care, universities and community groups. Their therapy dog teams (dog and handler) are specially trained to help people in the community overcome and cope with stressful events. Nepean Therapy Dogs Inc. dogs do not jump, bark or show any forms of aggression. Their human volunteers work in selected fields which they specialise in. To maintain a high standard, the therapy dog handlers provide services through Nepean Therapy Dogs Inc. and only at sites approved by Nepean Therapy Dogs Inc. Nepean Therapy Dogs Inc. has public liability insurance for all visits.

Donate here: www.therapydogs.com.au

6 –Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk

Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk is a free event for men only (sorry ladies). every Thursday Penrith’s Men Walk and Talk encourage men to join them on a walk and talk around the Nepean river allowing them to catch up with other men and get some exercise.

The weekly walk begins and ends at the Nepean River Coffee Club and follows the bridge to bridge Great River Walk which is about 6.4km long and takes around an hour and ten minutes. But there are no strict rules if you’re unable to walk the entire way or can’t stay the whole time.

Donate here: https://westcare.org.au/donate

Tree 8 – The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter

The haven provides a safe inclusive environment to empower and inspire women to rebuild their lives with dignity. The haven do this through:

• Offering a safe haven for women and their children escaping domestic violence

• Providing knowledge and support with a strengths-based focus

• Working in partnership with women to build the confidence to regain control of their lives

• Providing services that inspire the strength to rebuild an independent life free from violence

• Establishing a sense of community, connection and safety to enhance well being

Donate here: www.thehaven.org.au/ways-to-help

Tree 7 – WestCare

WeSTCARe is a locally based / not-for-profit / registered charity, continually driven by a compassionate desire to make a difference in our city!

Whilst offering a caring environment with a growing body of experienced volunteers, WestCare is also a great avenue of resource for referrals. By increasingly networking with other local service providers they can outsource the best support required for their individual client needs. Likewise, many clients are often referred to them by other government and non-government organisations. Most of their services are provided free of charge, supported by local people and businesses who recognise that WestCare is meeting real needs for real people.

Donate here: https://westcare.org.au/donate

Tree 9 –Our Community Cares

Our Community Cares is a volunteer based charity which fundraises all year round to help the Penrith Local Government Area (LGA) community with comfort and needs. All money raised stays within the community to finance programs for the area’s lonely, infirmed, aged and young adults, with no outlays for wages or committee payments.

Our Community Cares aims to increase the level of patient care in the outpatient services of Nepean by providing equipment beneficial to the patients comfort and well being. We will collaborate with the management of the outpatient medical services to determine priorities of the required resources.

Our Community Cares aims to assist the needy and aged by providing support to enhance their quality of life.

Donate here: https://ourcommunitycares.org.au/donations/donate-now/

Tree

The stereotype that men should never express their emotions and should never talk about their struggles is being crushed by a great local initiative – Penrith Men’s Walk and Talk.

PENRITH CBD CORP

Christmas Party

This

“115

Fantastic

www.penrithcbdcorp.com.au

festive season remember to support all the local businesses in the Penrith CBD

night of networking with Special Guest Stuart Ayres MP. Sponsors were AMAZON and Panthers, Roaming Elf and Christmas Fairy supplied by PAWS Studio.

guests enjoying a well deserved night off before the Christmas silly season for business begins,” said Gai Hawthorn, CEO, Penrith CBD Corporation.

Free Christmas movie family fun

Join Penrith City Council at the free outdoor Cinema from 5pm on December 10, and enjoy the family classics, The Grinch (2018) and The Santa Clause (1994) on the big screen.

Dress up in your best festive outfit - there is free face painting to help complete the look!

Enjoy free popcorn for the first 200 people. Feel like a sweet treat during the movie? There will be dessert trucks on hand with tasty treats available for purchase.

Grab some takeaway dinner from one of the many amazing High Street restaurants we have right here in Penrith.

Celebrate Christmas in the City with a fun and festive night for all!

Christmas in the City: outdoor Cinema Saturday 10 December, 5pm-10pm

Triangle Park, Penrith

For further event details go to www.penrith.city/events

To end the series, everyone will be watching the modern Christmas classic, Elf, a movie the whole family can enjoy, from 6pm on December 17.

Relax and enjoy some movie magic with family and friends.

Feel like a sweet treat during the movie? There will be dessert trucks on hand with tasty treats available for purchase.

This event is free and proudly brought to you by Penrith City Council.

Christmas is nearly here, so why not join in for a relaxing and fun night at the movies!

Dates & Times Starts: 17 December 2022 - 6-9pm Location Coachmans Park 129 Queen Street, St Marys nSW 2760

Tis the season to be jolly and watch a Christmas movie a week later at the free openair St Marys Cinema!

Photos: Penrith Council Facebook page

A first for Penrith

THe Festival of Art and Design was held last month at Nepean CAPA High School in collaboration with the Zonta Club of Nepean Valley and supported by Penrith City Council. The event was aimed at raising the profile of both aspiring artists and professional artists in the Penrith LGA. ZONTA is a not for profit organisation raising funds to build a better world for women and girls.

A good crowd of 409 guests attended to see this year’s Archibald Prize Winner, Blak Douglas open the event. 57 pieces of artwork were exhibited in the Open category with 10 local high schools participating. A wide variety of art was on display showing a high standard in both the junior and senior categories. 13 prizes worth over $4000.00 were offered from the sponsorship sourced by the Zonta Club of Nepean Valley.

The Open prize winner was Sarah Frost and the ‘Inspired by a Woman’

prize sponsored by ZONTA was won by Alexandra Stephenson.

The guests were treated to music and mime by students from Nepean CAPA High School whilst the Hospitality students delighted by offering Covid safe grazing boxes for supper.

The ZONTA Club of Nepean Valley hopes to build on the success of this event by making it an annual one, and would like to have more local artists and students participating to make Penrith a centre of artistic excellence.

High Street alive with festivities as locals ROAMed Penrith

LocaLs flocked to ROAM Penrith over the weekend from Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 November. This new event from Penrith City Council gave attendees a chance to explore the sights, sounds and tastes of the Penrith CBD in High Street between Masters Place Car Park and Triangle Park, with a range of entertainers, hands-on workshops and art installations delighting people of all ages.

Attendees were treated to an immersive experience as they adventured through the event space with interactive workshops of flowermaking, yarn bombing and rock painting, through to an Insta Swing selfie stage where revellers could take a photo to remember the day. The

Secret Garden Lane provided attendees a chance to take in the smells of the garden as well as have an opportunity to leave a message for a loved one.

A panther hunt provided friendly competition between friends and family to see who could find all the panthers hidden around the event space first, with prizes awarded to

those who took part. With two stages showcasing a range of musicians, magicians, contortionists and dance groups, attendees were entertained at every turn.

Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen was elated to see the success of the event, the latest in several successful Penrith City Council events this year.

“I am delighted to see how the community has embraced this new event,” Cr Hitchen said.

“ROAM Penrith was a chance for Council to support local businesses and to showcase the wonderful talent we have locally in a range of performing areas – from musicians, magicians through to dance groups.

“With so many fun and inviting activities for attendees to take part in, it was great to see families, couples and friends all going out and enjoying our vibrant city.

“This event has been a great success thanks to the positive community response,” Cr Hitchen said.

For information on future Penrith City Council events, go to penrith. city/events

Photos: Penrith Council Facebook page

The struggle to save for a property deposit

wants and savings and put them into three separate bank accounts.

mate?

KISS, Keep It Simple:

You are not alone:

The hardest part for so many wouldbe property investors is getting that deposit together, and it’s not easy is it? Being told “you just need to save for it” really doesn’t help. The number one reason most of us grownups don’t have a budget is because we don’t know how. We know why we need to have one, but it gets pushed away because it’s all too hard.

So here is the simplest little budget plan you can use. You don’t need to buy any flashy apps, you don’t need a mass of excel spreadsheets running while kidding yourself that you are doing something.

50/30/20

The 50/30/20 budget is absolutely fabulous for budgeting beginners, as it gives you a nice easy to understand framework to work from. It also gives you the chance to reassess your own spending over time. This simple to manage budget, splits your monthly income into three categories needs,

Needs: Your needs are your everyday expenses and the essentials you need to live, such as food, rent, utilities, healthcare, and transport costs. This also includes debt repayments, such as credit cards or loans.

Wants: Your wants are things that generally make your life more enjoyable but are not necessities. These include things like dining out, that morning coffee and other entertainment such as gigs, after-work cocktails, and brunches.

Savings: Your savings include any and all savings you are setting aside, such as your emergency fund, extra repayments and goal savings.

Time to reconsider:

If your rent or mortgage is more than 50 percent of your take-home pay, it might be time to have a think about moving and renting somewhere more affordable. If it’s your home loan repayments that’s the issue, contact me and we can look at some refinancing options. have you ever thought about renting out a room and getting a flat

These budgeting rules are simple and easy to understand, so you won’t get lost in the numbers when you’re planning.

All work and no play:

From time to time, you might spend a bit more on ‘wants’ than the ‘savings’ but that’s ok. Allow yourself some enjoyment while still putting some money aside.

Healthy Habits:

The small decision of putting your money in their boxes each month will get you into a good long-term habit and break the cycle you were once in. Will this fix everything for everyone?

The short answer – no. I can tell you that after 30+ years in finance, there is no magic money pill you can pop that will solve your problems. You must want to make a change and stick to it.

If you are carrying over a lot of other debts, you might find the percentage split doesn’t work for you because you won’t be paying these debts off. So, you might need to reduce the amount going to the ‘want & needs’ part.

I speak from years of experience here, get a good mortgage broker involved early on. I recommend you have a sit down with your new best friend (me, your friendly mortgage broker) and ask them to run some numbers for two scenarios.

You need to know your borrowing capacity as it is right now, with no tweaks or changes to saving/ spending patterns. Then look at where you’d ideally like it to be and work your budget planning/saving plan backwards from there.

In summary:

The important thing is to get yourself into a routine of managing your money and then you can look at broadening your goals and building wealth.

Do it, you’ll thank yourself in years to come.

Knowledge is Power

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

Wainwright Family

James Wainwright was born in 1808 in england, his occupation was a school master and he died in 1863 at Colyton and is buried in st mary magdalene cemetery at st marys. James married Hannah Clack, the daughter of Thomas Clack and ann Topping in July, 1827 in st George’s church, Littleport, Cambridgeshire, england. she was born in march 1804 and baptised in the same church where she married James. she died in June 1880 in st marys and is buried with James. Their son samuel David Wainwright was born in 1834 at Upwell, Cambridgeshire in england and married elizabeth Burdus in July 1854 in the Parish Church, sneinton, st stephen, Nottinghamshire, england. elizabeth was born in 1834 in Nottingham and the daughter of William Burdus and ann Gillian. While in england samuel learned the trade of blacksmith. samuel, elizabeth and two-year-old daughter Rebecca came to australia arriving in February 1857 on the “Hindostan”. In sydney he met Thomas smith who employed him as a blacksmith at Colyton. In the early days the carting business to outback towns, along with the sheep and cattle runs was in its heyday and the coaches and wagons were the vehicle of traffic trade over the Blue mountains that kept samuel busy in shoeing heavy draught stock and coach and saddled horses. The railway had only been laid on the stretch from Parramatta to st marys by 1862 and samuel made a number of the large double hinges for the level crossing gates at st marys railway station around that time. Granny Cochrane, who was a girl of thirteen, arrived with her parents in sydney on st Patrick’s Day 1856 and after a week she left sydney with her mother on the 1 o’clock coach for Penrith. she said that “on the journey we went along alright until we nearly got to the “Red Cow Inn” at Colyton kept by Thomas Smith when it was found the coach had broken a wheel and Mr Samuel Wainwright the blacksmith was roused up to mend it”. When Thomas smith left Colyton to take over the “Red Cow” hotel at Penrith, samuel brought property at Colyton and started as “mine host” in his “Horseshoe Inn” in 1871. elizabeth died in 1905 and samuel died in 1917 at st marys and both are buried in st mary magdalene cemetery. Their son James was named after samuel’s father and was born in 1858 in Colyton and he married emily Faith Lawrence in st Paul’s Church at Redfern in 1883. she was born in 1863 in Penrith, the daughter of elias Lawrence Wainwright and eleanor (ellen) Boots. James died in November 1928 at Penrith and emily died in 1951 also in Penrith and both are buried at st mary magdalene cemetery. Their son Claude Leswell Wainwright was born in Penrith in 1889. In 1912 he married Florence Isabelle Harvey in st mathews Church at Botany. she was born in st marys in 1893, the daughter of Frederick Grenville Harvey and ada Constance Blackmore. In 1915 Claude announced that he had commenced business as a farm implement maker, coach painter and general blacksmith in the premises that had been occupied by mr J Cook in High street West at Penrith and he would also repair all classes of implements and take old ones

as part payment for new. He called his business “The Independent Farrier” but in June 1916 he decided to free himself from the master Farriers’ association of NsW. With agricultural Work at lowest rates and coach painting a speciality he now called his business “The Farmers’ Friend”. In February 1917 during WW1, Claude came up with a Penrith invention. Briefly, Claude’s invention that he called ‘’The Peeper’ or ‘Lifesaver” was a model designed to enable an observer to study the enemy’s positions or the surrounding enemy country without risk of being found out by either rifle, bomb or shrapnel attack. “The Peeper” designed to fit over the observer’s head at trench level and narrowed at the observing end with an oblique eyes-slit or aperture that can be improved by the addition of a small glass lens or without the lens. The material for war observation purposes would be of the best tempered steel, and Claude claimed that it would be found impervious to any sort of heavy gunfire. The apparatus of a concave shape and is about 2ft6in in length and of sufficient depth to cover the head of the soldier observer. It would fit into the top of the trench as a solid part of the scenery and would be of an earthen colour so as to keep “Fritz” in the dark as to its whereabouts. It was believed that the sniper could fire ‘The Peeper’ and the eye-slit was of such small scope that a rifle bullet could not possibly penetrate it. The Nepean Times said that “they had seen a model of the clever invention called ‘“The Peeper” designed for the protection of soldier observers viewing the enemy’s lines from the trenches and they had much pleasure in stating that the name of Claude Wainwright blacksmith, would henceforth be known in the honour roll of Australian inventors as to all intents would be of great assistance for observation purposes for the men in the trenches and that they believed would cover a long felt want in that direction. Claude Wainwright had patented his invention that has been well thought of by returned soldiers and military officers and we hope “The Peeper” will be found as effective as its design seems to warrant”. In July 1920 Claude had partnered with ernest James Joseph Jones now calling their business “Wainwright and Jones” but in 1921 he had taken over the business and would carry on alone, now calling himself a Coachbuilder and Blacksmith. His wife Florence died in June 1934 and Claude died in Kingswood in may 1983 and both are buried at Penrith General Cemetery (anglican section). P.s:- I contacted Jane Peek the Curator of military Heraldry at the australian War memorial to verify if Claude’s invention was ever used in WW1 and she said “We have no record of it being used, and no examples in our collection. Both the First and Second World Wars prompted enthusiastic inventors to create items that they thought might help the war effort. The vast majority were never adopted, including some that went into limited production. I was unable to find any record of Claude in National Archives or a record of a patent application from him”

Sources: Nepean Times, Ancestry family information, NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages website, Find a Grave website, NSW Immigration records, Trove.

 hoto of Claude at his blacksmith shop on High Street Penrith 1921 courtesy of Penrith Library.

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

Locals fall agonisingly short at Bonville

By Noel Rowsell

Five local juniors qualified for the 2022 Bonville Champions Trophy, which was held at the Bonville Golf Resort over 30th Nov - 2nd December.

Coby Carruthers (Jordan Springs) and Grace Lee (Glenmore Park) both represented Concord GC, Annoushka Maikap represented Stonecutters Ridge GC and Camilla Kim and Ryan Fletcher represented Lynwood CC.

The Champions Trophy is a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) and Golf Australia Junior Order of Merit (GA OOM) event, for players who won a Jack Newton Junior Golf Tour event throughout the 2021/22 season.

The tournament was due to be played over 72 Holes in three days, with a cut after 54 holes. All players who missed the cut would work as a caddy for another player in the final round.

Grace played superbly early, finishing the first and second rounds as the leader in the Girls tournament.

The wheels fell off during the third round, as Grace shot a 7-over par 79 to drop back into 2nd spot behind Ella Scaysbrook (The Australian GC).

Bad weather forced the cancellation of the final round. leaving Grace stranded in a share of 2nd and unable to make a last-gasp run at the title. Ella took the title, 1 shot ahead of Grace and Hollie Fuller (Grafton GC), who were locked in a tie for 2nd place. Camilla

Kim missed the cut and finished in 12th place, whilst Annoushka finished in 17th place.

In the Boys division, Rupert Toomey (Huntingdale GC) led through the first two rounds but a hot 3rd round from Taj Egea (Brookwater GC) left the two boys locked together at the top of the leaderboard at the end of the third round, with Coby Carruthers also making a move to sit

just one shot in arrears.

Unfortunately, Coby’s challenge ended with the cancellation of the final round, with Rupert subsequently defeating Taj on the third hole of a sudden-death playoff and Coby settling for 3rd. Coby was also the only boy to shoot two of his three rounds under par.

Ryan Fletcher finished in a tie for 5th.

Blue Mountains Junior Masters

By Noel Rowsell

ANUMBER of local juniors will compete this weekend in the 2022 Blue Mountains Junior Masters, which is held under the auspices of the Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) Foundation.

Darcy Mackay, Ryan Cadle and Riley Cleminson have all entered from Stonecutters Ridge GC, along with

Nepean locals Blake Hodges (NSW GC), Tyler Nesci (Concord GC) and Jake Thompson (Leonay GC), whilst Jesse Hardaker (Wentworth Falls CC) will represent the upper Blue Mountains.

The tournament runs over the 10th11th December, with all players playing 18 holes on each day.

Carruthers double at Glenmore Cup

By Noel Rowsell

TWIN

Jonathon Hong (Campbelltown GC) shot 74 to finish in 3rd place.

Coby celebrated a family double podium on Saturday, with his father Andrew Carruthers taking out the Nett trophy with a score of 70.

2022 Glenmore Cup: Stroke ResultsChris Moreton (Twin Creeks) 73, Coby Carruthers (Concord GC) 74, Jonathan Hong (Campbelltown GC) 75.

Nett Winner - Andrew Curruthers (Dunheved GC) 70.

Creeks Major Pennant representative Chris Moreton has won the 2022 Glenmore Cup with a score of 73, edging out this year’s JNJG Most Improved Player of the Year Coby Carruthers by a single shot.

Coby and Andrew Carruthers at the Glenmore Cup and at the JNJG Awards night. Photos supplied.

Blake Hodges. Photo supplied by JNJG

Grace Lee and Coby Carruthers

Stonecutters Ridge Hosts 2022 Women’s State Medal

By Noel Rowsell

alison Windeyer (Gloucester Gc) took out the overall title with a nett 66, one shot ahead of Maxine McNally (Leonay Gc) on 67 c/b and Jacinta Maas (Camden GC) 67 in 3rd.

Wendy Hergenhan (Bega Gc) took out the Division 1 (Gold) division

with 69, ahead of catherine chan (Gungahlin Lakes Gc) on 70 c/b in 2nd and Debbie Finlaison (Highlands GC) on 70 in 3rd.

Jenny Madsen (roseville Gc) won Division 2 (Silver) with 69, ahead of Julie Fairley (canowindra Gc) on 70

and rosie Smith (Glenn Innes Gc) on 73.

alison Windeyer (Gloucester) added the Division 3 (Bronze) title to her outright win, finishing ahead of Maxine and Jacinta in a tie for 2nd place.

Penrith Sports Clubs – apply now for life-saving defibrillators

Stuart ayreS MP, Member for Penrith is calling on community sport clubs and organisations across Penrith to apply for up to $9,000 to access life-saving defibrillators, as part of the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program.

Stuart ayres said sport is part of the fabric of life of our local Penrith community, with more people participating in sport and active recreation.

“Medical experts say the first eight minutes following a cardiac arrest are critical, so early access to CPR and a defibrillator is essential to increasing a patient’s likelihood of survival,” Stuart Ayres said.

“this funding will enable our local sporting organisations and councils to install these defibrillators so they are equipped to respond to life-threating emergencies.

“I encourage all our sporting clubs to apply for these grants that will help prevent the trauma, and the heartache, that cardiac arrest can cause families.”

Minister for Sport alister Henskens said the NSW Government has committed an additional $2 million over four years to the program.

“Whether you’re at your local sailing club or playing footy with your mates, when someone has a cardiac arrest, time is crucial – they can happen to anyone, anytime, or anywhere so it’s vital that a defibrillator is readily accessible ” Mr Henskens said.

“through this funding, the NSW Liberals and National Government is ensuring our sport clubs and venues are safe environments for everyone, both on and off the field.”

The Local Sports Defibrillator Program is available to sport and recreation clubs, associations and organisations as well as councils and service clubs. Up to $3,000 is available per device with organisations able to apply for up to three devices valued at $9,000. applications are open and close Friday, 10 February 2023. For more information on the Program, visit: https://sport. nsw.gov.au.

StoNecutterS ridge Gc hosted the 2022 Golf NSW Women’s State Medal on Wednesday 30th November, with 48 ladies competing across 3 divisions.

Action from the 2022 Women’s State Medal - photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

St Dominic’s College wins Australian Schools Championships Title

By

The St Dominic’s College

Under 17 Boys basketball team has capped of a highly successful year, winning the Australian U17 Boys Division 2 Basketball Championships, which were held from Nov 28 - Dec 2 on the Gold Coast in QLD.

The boys had previously won the PDSSSC competition in Billbergia and were runners-up in the NSWCCC tournament, narrowly defeated in overtime.

head coach Jeff Kilbourne said “We had a very slow start to the tournament, with the team struggling to find any consistency at both ends of the floor. Glimpses of form showed us what we were capable of and after a few strategic and positional changes after Day 2, we started to click and play with more cohesion and teamwork. The Quarter Final saw us finally hit our straps, and the last three games (of the tournament) were superb, truly highlighting the potential of this group.

“Athletic 3-man Mabok Makoi dominated both ends of the floor all tournament, finishing secondleading scorer in his division and constantly getting to the free throw line. he was ably supported by Year 9 guard Chase Jackson driving the team, Migual Pascual leading the tournament in made three-pointers and Year 10 forward Mitch Fenton dominating the rebounds.

“The Gold Medal in Division 2 was just reward for the boys continued effort and dedication, and ranks us 9th in Australia.

Preliminary Rounds: Game 1 – Won 58-56 against John Paul College, Brisbane; Game 2 – Lost 67-58 to hunter Sports hS; Game 3 – Lost 52-41 against Trinity College, Beenleigh; QF - Won 69-47 against St Josephs College, Melbourne; SF – Won 66-56 against John Paul College, Brisbane;GF – Won 6260 (in overtime) against Trinity College, Beenleigh.

The full U17 team is: Tiare Raukawa, Chase Jackson, Mabok Makoi, Mitch Fenton, Miguel Pascual, Brodie Carter, Christian Wells, health Williams, Jarred hayden, Jesse Kamiti, Kees Muller, head coach Jeff Kilbourne, assistant coach Carissa Cook.

St Dominic’s also had an Under 20 Boys team,

playing in Division 1, which finished in 3rd place overall. The team started the tournament at a disadvantage, losing two players to Covid / Illness and travelling with just 8 players. The boys still performed admirably to finish the preliminary rounds in 1st place in their pool to advance to the playoffs.

Suffering the loss of two players prior to the commencement of the tournament was always going to be a challenge and the task looked to be made all the more difficult once the tournament began, with starting centre Noah Webb rolling his ankle and guard TJ Kolosovs-eruera injuring his shoulder, both injuries in game 1.

Fortunately, both boys were able to fight through the discomfort and remained on the court for the remainder of the tournament.

Guard Jett hickson was one of the players of the tournament, averaging 24 points per game and

doing the job (for St Dom’s) at both ends of the court. It was the final time the school’s 4 x Year 12 representatives (TJ Kolosovs-Eruera, Jack Sullivan, Brayden Wolsey, Jesse Jackson) would play for the College.

Results: Preliminary Rounds: Game 1 – Lost 5042 to Shore School, NSW; Game 2 – Won 67-46 over Trinity Grammar School, NSW; Game 3 – Won 54-39 over hillcrest College, QLD; SF – Lost 5651 to Knox Grammar School, NSW; Bronze Medal Game – Won 64-54 over Brisbane Boys College, QLD.

Those results place the St Dominics U20 Boys team 11th in Australia.

The full U20 team is: Jett hickson, TJ Kolosovseruera, Jack Sullivan, Brayden Wolsey, Liam Phillips, Jesse Jackson, Noah Webb, William Ezekiel, Tristin Tikaram, Brodie Schwarzer, head coach Leon hine and assistant coach Ben Godsell.

Noel Rowsell

The successful St Dominic’s College U17 Boys team. Photos courtesy of Peter Fenton.

HSRCA Summer Festival at Sydney Motorsport Park

By Noel Rowsell

Historic car racing is one of motor sport’s best kept secrets, and the Historic sports and racing car Association of NsW (inc) (HsrcA) is one of Australia’s leading car clubs, catering specifically for historic racing, sports and touring cars.

Established in 1981, the aim of the HsrcA is to preserve, restore and compete in the cars members either grew up with, or admired from afar. What were once regarded as old, obsolete, noncompetitive cars and thus of little value, survive to compete at circuits around Australia.

the club caters for cars from the early 1920’s, through to the racing and sports cars of the 1980’s and organises and runs major historic race meetings each year, at circuits such as Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP) and Wakefield Park. In addition the club holds regular meetings, various social events and club plate runs, and also publishes its own magazine, ‘the Oily Rag’.

SMSP hosted the club on 3rd-4th December, featuring sports sedans, Formula Vee, F5000 & QR Sports & Racing, Formula Ford, Group S, Group N and Group L, M & O. results from the weekend can be viewed at http://racing.natsoft.com. au/results/#2

Racing action from the HSRCA Summer Festival at Sydney Motorsport Park. Photos by Noel Rowsell (www.photoexcellence.com.au)

Vallex wins final polo event of the season

It was a stunning weekend to cap off the season at Windsor Polo Club, with the hosting of the final tournament in the Hawkesbury Summer Series - the Stone Real Estate Hawkesbury Cup.

The A Grade 8-Goal competition had 4 teams battling it out for the Cup, with a fast and furious final producing a 7-5 win for Vallex (Rohan Ford, Jack Berner, Byron Watson, Toby Campbell) over CBW.

Best Playing Pony - ‘Imprint’ (Sharkie x Impulse), owned by Rohan Ford and played by Byron Watson.

The B Grade 4-Goal also featured 4 teams, with 3 of those based in Victoria. Cobram Estate (Rowena Rainger, Angus Place, James Fewster, Skye Gilmore) were victorious over Gundalong in the final.

A further 4 teams contested the C-Grade Subzero title, which included players from NSW, QLD and VIC. Bella Polo (Pete Martin, Jess Martin, Olivia McIntosh, Steve Barnard) were the winners over Eynesbury Polo Club.

WPC thanked Stone Real Estate Hawkesbury and Hugh Bloore Saddlery T/A RURAL Services for sponsoring the weekend’s tournament and prizes, and also all of the teams and players from interstate who competed at the tournament.

By Noel Rowsell

Members of the winning Vallex team from the 8-Goal competition. Photo supplied

Eisenhuth and Salmon commit to Panthers

Penrith Panthers is pleased to announce the re-signings of Matt Eisenhuth and Jaeman Salmon ahead of the 2023 season.

By Panthers Media

EisEnhuth has extended his contract for a further two years which will see him remain in Panthers colours until at least the end of the 2024 season, whilst salmon has recommitted to the club on a one-year deal.

having returned to the Panthers ahead of the 2021 season, Eisenhuth has played 35 nrL games for the club across the past two years.

the prop played an important role for the nrL and nsW Cup sides in 2022 as both teams claimed premiership success.

salmon will also remain at the Panthers for a third consecutive season after joining the club at the start of 2021.

The utility featured in 25 first grade matches for the Panthers in 2022, including the nrL Grand Final.

Panthers rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said he was pleased to retain Eisenhuth and salmon at the club.

“On behalf of all at Panthers, i’d like to congratulate Matt and Jaeman on their new deals with the club,” Cameron said.

“Matt and Jaeman have both played important roles for the club over the past two seasons, and I look forward to seeing them remain at Panthers.”

Panthers launches historic Women’s Competition

PEnrith Panthers and Panthers Juniors are proud to announce the launch of the Panthers rugby League Women’s (PrLW) competition ahead of the 2023 season.

the historic new under-20s competition will provide local female players (aged 18, 19 and 20 in 2023) the opportunity to participate in a competitive program before progressing to open-aged and professional competitions.

Aligned with the club’s built-fromwithin philosophy, Panthers will develop local talent to provide female players with a pathway into the club’s proposed inclusion in the nrLW competition.

The first-of-its-kind competition, coordinated by Panthers Pathways in conjunction with Panthers Juniors, will run parallel to the junior rugby league competition – from April to August.

the PrLW will comprise of 15 rounds and finals, with matches to be played on weekends in the Penrith district.

Prior to the commencement of the season, all players will train for an eight-week block. At the conclusion of the training period, teams will be formed to create an equal and competitive competition.

Players will compete in a Panthersinspired jersey, with each team playing in a different colour variation.

All players will receive Panthers training and playing apparel, and have the opportunity to be involved

in the Panthers Pathways system –which includes training, wellbeing and education.

“the launch of the Panthers rugby League Women’s competition is an exciting step for the female pathways program at the club,” Panthers rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said.

“this new historic competition demonstrates the belief in where the club is headed within the women’s game.

“With a build-from-within model, Panthers will develop local talent to make the club well prepared and competitive for the future inclusion in the nrLW competition.”

registrations opened on 1 December 2022. Participants will need to complete the PrLW Player information Cognito Form, as well as register through player’s junior league club.

By Panthers Media